nanster

Hi All! I'm getting frustrated...no loss in almost a month. I'm eating small quantities and primarily green salad, eggs and yogurt. I'm under 1200 cal/day for sure, often under 1000 but not losing any AT ALL. As a matter of fact, I'm up 2 pounds (fluctuates) sometimes. I thought my complexion would clear up some with the healthier eating and (mainly) the volumous WATER-but it hasn't. Sorry to mention a "touchy" subject, but I'm still having a little bit of constipation. I only go about every 3-4 days...I guess from the lower volume of food. But, when I go- I really go!!! Maybe I need to try the Benefiber someone else suggested earlier. Does anyone else have almost-PB-like feelings? Sometimes I eat a salad at lunch and it's fine, but at dinner it seems a little "heavy"-haven't PB'd but felt the start of the "elephant on the chest" after just a few bites. I thought most people had LESS restriction at SUPPERTIME. At any rate, I'm feeling well. Some of my pants are starting to be a little looser...not a size smaller, but not quite as snug as they once were!! No additional weight loss, though, which is really annoying. Am I going to turn into a TURTLE???? Should I ask for another fill? (I can't eat more than a cup, I'd say). WHAT AM I DOING WRONG????? I have had some headaches the last two weeks...nothing horrible, but wondering if it's related to the reduction in calories. BTW...Liquid Tylenol SUCKS!! I used to be able to swallow a PILL of any size...never was good at liquids, and now that's all I can take!! Go Figure! Oh well...sorry to be Negative Nanster tonight, but I'm a little bummed by my lack of progress at losing. I PROMISE I'm not cheating!!! Thanks all for being here!! I appreciate you ALL! Nanster

Happy2: I can't say I'm where you are...sweets (especially chocolate) still really appeal to me, but I'm not hearing voices calling my name anymore. And, I can have just a taste of it and be satisfied. I don't think I'll ever LOSE the pleasure of chocolate, but I'm satisfied with my meals and don't feel compelled to add desserts and/or sweets. By the way...that Snickers bar is STILL in my desk and I have had only 2 one-quarter inch slices of it so far...it's been there over 2 weeks now. I'm proud of myself for being able to look at it and say "no, I don't need that right now"!!! Normally, if there is a food (of ANY KIND) in the house that I really like, I eat it until it's gone. Maybe not in one sitting, but I would've kept going back until it was gone. Nanster

Hang in There, JillyB! Like others have said, enjoy the mashed potatoes, ice cream and shakes now while you're allowed to have them...once you're on solids, they become no-no's again. I remember having beefy mushroom soup blended with mashed potatoes and a little salt...it was like eating steak it tasted so good. (It was a suggestion from a bandster a month ahead of me!!) Follow some of the ideas on LBT that sound good to you...chances are, they helped someone else before you. We're all here to share...the good and the bad. Also, once you go on solids, your quantities go down, so take advantage of that too...see, there's always a silver lining there for you...you just have to find it!!! Sounds like you're doing GREAT!! Nanster

Hey girls! Like you, I LOVE my coffee. I used to drink 2-3 mugs (ie, 4-5 cups) of coffee before leaving for work, take a quart with me (doctored up with flavored creamer and sugar, of course) and then have another mug after dinner at night. With creamer at about 35-40 cal/tbsp and AT LEAST 2 in there, plus about 3-4 tsp sugar, I was really putting a lot of calories in just to enjoy my "drug". Since surgery, I have allowed myself 1 cup before work (with 1tsp surgar and 2 Tbsp creamer (f/f & s/f) MEASURED. Then I sometimes take 1 cup to work to sip on all day (yes, everyone thinks it's gross I don't mind it room temp, but I don't) and 1 in the evening, an hour after dinner. It's still quite a few calories, but like you I'd rather plan for it and cut down elsewhere than do the yucky-tasting alternatives! As a non-sweetener person (they all make me sick)...I have to choose what I put sugar in now and I have really starting noting how much it adds up to if you don't really measure and keep track! I use butter or Pam for cooking-no margarine. I use real sugar. I use regular salad dressing, just watered down so it goes further. I still think that the more natural food items are USUALLY better than the synthetic stuff. You just don't get to have as much. But, with the band, you can't have as much anyhow so it works out fine! I'm one of the ones that is just not willing to eat all LOW-CARB, LOW-CAL, ALL-ORGANIC, ALL-NUTRITIOUS stuff. If I have to do that, I might as well just drink meal replacement shakes for all meals, because there's no pleasure if it takes horrible. Perhaps that's why I'm losing slower than all of you in the Feb bunch, but I'm counting on it to eventually start coming off if I just continue with eating properly and counting the calories. One of my co-workers let me borrow her Weight Watchers info for the weekend and I think I'm going to try to work the points system into my routine. I'm not going to do meetings, etc. but I think it will help me remain aware of calories, fat and quantities. Plus, it will allow me the flexibility for "real" food and "real" sugar, etc. in smaller quanitities so that I can still enjoy eating. The French Vanilla creamer from Carnation comes in SUGAR FREE now....it's not that bad. Nanster

Carla--OUTSTANDING NSV!!! Not only you're "old" jeans, but your old "skinny" jeans!!???? YIPPEE! I'm jealous, but I'm excited for you and hopeful I'll have a NSV like that some day! Are you feeling well, getting more energy, getting in protein and water...all that good stuff?? I feel like you're "lapping" me...getting out so far ahead of me...but I'm still gonna try to catch up with you. That's one of the great things about this site...we can use it as needed...a crutch, a kick in the butt, a challenge, a pity party, whatever our need at the time! Keep up the good work. I'm really proud of you!! Nanster:biggrin1:

Hi All! We're a pretty happenin' kind of group, aren't we??? We're all pretty close in our weight losses, our moods, (our periods!!), our frustrations and our eating. Some up days, some down, but we're never ALL on the DOWN side on the same day, so we have great support! Welcome Xann77--you're right there with us, so jump right in. Glad to have you!! Stacey-for some reason, family members (God love them!) always find a way to cut you to the core, don't they? If it's not "that's all you've lost so far? I thought that's what that surgery was for" to blaming every little ache, pain and gas on the band. Speaking for myself, I've had heartburn and gas before--since I was a pretty hefty eater pre-op---but amazingly everything now is related to the band. Half of our mission must be to EDUCATE all our friends' and family's misconceptions, huh? Tammy-I just found out that bananas REALLY give me a tummy-ache and/or heartburn. (which is surprising to me, given the nutrients, texture etc. of it) Maybe we'll each have lists of stuff that we have to be careful with, but CAN eat from time to time. I won't totally give up bananas, but maybe will eat it within a meal next time, so other foods can help "mellow" the effects. As far as "sliming" goes, when I had it I kept having saliva build up and I went from bathroom to bathroom in my house, just spitting it out...I was already feeling so full that the saliva felt like it was putting me "over the top". Finally, I did feel nauseous and threw up just a little bite of food and I felt instantly better. They told me if I start getting that "golfball" feeling that I've already eaten about 2 bites too much!!! In addition to the diet Coke Janet mentioned, I read here on LBT that meat tenderizer is a "staple" in many bandsters' purses for "blobs" when they're out to eat. I can't imagine eating meat tenderizer (even 1 tsp!!) but, compared to spitting and spewing, I guess it'd be worth a try! Michelle-I'm like you with the weight to the husband...I needed to tell him during the "deliberation" about spending on the surgery. Since I've lost, he did the math too! He's very supportive, although he cannot fathom the "calling" we hear from candy, cookies, and gooey stuff. He eats for fuel, not pleasure. (lucky duck!) Janet-I've had some left shoulder pain...I have one spot that is "STABBING" if I get in a certain position. I assumed it was from work (I sit at the computer all day!) but it hadn't bothered me prior to surgery. The first pain (post-op) was more of a dull, but strong, ache. This pain is a stabbing pain. I've been wearing ICY HOT patches on it this week...stinking everyone out at work!! OH, and so far, I've only eaten TWO 1/8" slices of my Snickers bar...I'm so proud. But...when I do eat a piece...I SAVOR every sweet, chocolatey bit. If only I could give up creamer and sugar in my coffee!!!:confused: SIGH. (although I have cut back, so maybe there's hope for me for the future!!) I'm finally able to go out to a restaurant with the girls at work and not be nervous about what I'll be able to eat. I can usually get an appetizer as my meal and I save the cost of a drink now--I just have water with lemon (sips only, of course!!) PLUS, I bring home 2/3 to 3/4 of it for my husband!! Win, Win! I WOULD like a Coca-Cola if truth be told! I used to drink two a day, but I've given them up completely. And bread, but that's not tough for me. I'm sure I'll eventually TRY a bite of pizza (without crust!) just to see if I can tolerate it. I'm doing well except that I'm not really losing right now. I feel good. I make pretty decent choices (I think!) but it just hasn't cranked down anymore since the first 2 weeks post-op. Oh well...patience, practice and praying!!! Have a great weekend everyone!!! Nanster

Oh yeah... Spivak/Spiegel "reunion" on May 13 sounds fun...but I'll have family in town so I'm not sure if I'll make it. If they change the date/time,(hint, hint, hint) PLEASE let me know....I'd love to go!!!! Nanster

Hi ALL! Tragedy last night...cable went off half way through Idol!!! But, back on tonight...I missed the last 4 performers:confused: ! Hubby and I went out to dinner tonight...he wanted seafood. Went to Joe's Crab Shack...YUMMMMY. I was able to eat a little bit of the salad...first time for salad and it was A-ok, but couldn't eat much. I ordered crabmeat-stuffed mushrooms (an appetizer) and ate 3 of the 4....was TOTALLY satisfied, full and happy!!! No PB's, no heart burn and.....LOTS of leftovers to eat tomorrow!!!! :eek: I'm generally eating a frozen (diet) entree for lunch and being happy with it. I eat an egg or a yogurt for breakfast usually. For dinner, again, an egg, entree or crabmeat(or tuna). (Now I can add SALAD!!) I haven't eaten bread AT ALL. My portions are all smaller than before for sure!!! Disappointed in the loss on the scales, but oh well*sigh* it surely will get better. I HAVE to talk positive to myself, because I'm generally my own worst enemy!!! I successfully ate a 1/8" slice of a Snickers bar, put the rest into my desk and never even heard it call my name!!! For me, that's not just great, it's a miracle!! It has now been in my desk for 3 days and only 2 small (1/8") slices are gone. I'm actually VERY proud of myself for that, because I have NO WILLPOWER when it comes to chocolate. I'll get to personals tomorrow night. Got some chores to do tonight and still want a little "relaxing" time for myself and hubby too! JanetC: Thank you SOOOOOOOmuch for keeping the charts on us and letting us all know how great we're really doing ---stuff that's MEASUREABLE!!! You clearly put a lot of time and effort into our thread and I really appreciate it. I look forward to coming to our thread EVERY SINGLE DAY to see what's up with all of you. Later, Nanster

Hi All! Tonight's Idol night, so I'm posting short tonight. (that'll be a first, I know--I talk a lot in real life too, in case you had any doubts!!!) Tammy you are awesome but I'm SOOOO jealous! I was banded 2-24-06 and have only lost 15.6 pounds. I HAVE had 3 PB's (yucky experience) and I am eating VERY small quantities--but at least it's REAL food. I've even been out to a restaurant twice-went well both times but I had to struggle with not drinking before/during food. Also, I ordered the more "safe" choices on the menu rather than what I prefer taste-wise!! I'm excited for all of you who are eating decent meals and losing LOTS of weight....I just wish I was one of you. I'm not giving up though. I've almost completely erased between-meal eating. I eat small quantities and do not eat beyond full (unless by accident, or something that doesn't go down well) and I have not had chocolate OR Coca-Cola in 5 weeks!!!! I'm walking the walk, not just talking the talk....and I have to be proud of myself for that, even if I'm not losing any more. I'm getting more energy. All-in-all, I'm LEARNING THE SKILLS I'll need to be successful (if not now, in the future) and I'm phasing out the old habits one by one. Glad to hear all the FEB BANDSTERS are rockin' and rollin' along. We are AWESOME!!! Look at how much we've ALL accomplished in less than 2 MONTHS!!! We can't let negative thinking pull us back to 3 months ago...we've come too far already. 3 steps forward and 2 steps back STILL makes forward progress, right????? Nanster

Hello All! Doing fine, although not really losing lately. I did have a minor NSV this weekend. I actually went to 3 different stores, walked around in all three and the third was a full (two-week) grocery trip. At the end, I was barely sweating and my "new" (ie, knee replacement) leg was not even hurting. I've only lost a total of 15.6 pounds, but I'm feeling the difference, which is just as important. I also did some yardwork this weekend and was able to do more than usual!! Things are moving in the positive direction. skbishop: PB'ing sucks, huh? I didn't understand what everyone meant about "slime" until it happened to me...funny how sometimes you can eat a good bit and not have problems, other times a few bites overdoes it. I guess there are other "bodily" factors besides the band itself that influence how much/what type we can eat. Dancer: I've started eating solids now. I was very nervous, but I'm starting to get used to it. Main thing is...don't forget that you DO still have the band! I occassionally almost forget and start to eat something, then go "oh, I can't eat that"!! I guess I'm learning, slowly. Julie: I personally would wait til after Disney to get your fill. Sounds like you're doing quite well as is. The fill will really not be an issue (no pain, no ramifications) but you may not be able to eat as "freely" for a day or two and why worry about it at all?? Plus, you will be doing a LOT of walking and you'll NEED lots of fluids, especially if you're not used to the FL heat/humidity!! Just my opinion; either way, you should be fine. JerseyTammy: You're the first person I've noticed mentioning headaches. That was one of my BIGGEST fears pre-banding. Every time I tried to diet, I had horrible headaches and they would turn into migraines(which I've had since 5th grade). To my surprise, I've had only one since surgery and I took liquid children's tylenol and it helped right away. I think when I "withdrew" right after surgery, I didn't even get them, but I felt totally drained and weak. Maybe once I detox'd from sugar and caffeine, the battle was won. But, I agree that protein and hydration are what will keep them under control now that you're banded. Try a little OJ or Ensure if you start to get one...it's probably a blood sugar fluctuation. (Per Dr. Nanster, that is!?!) SherryW: 25 pounds is AWESOME! You've got it figured out, it sounds like. Sandybells: WELCOME! We ALL are glad you stopped by and joined us. We're here for you and hope you'll return the favor! I'm still only eating around 1000 cal/day, but I'm not losing any more weight. My watch is looser :biggrin1: and my bra is a little LESS tight but no significant changes other than my endurance as discussed above. My hardest thing is not drinking just before/after a meal and getting in water. I can usually eat a Lean Cuisine-type meal except for about 2-3 bites as a meal. Haven't tried salad yet, although I want to soon. Hubby and I went to a Mexican restaurant tonight (he wanted fajitas!) so I had a mexican omelet...it was yummy. There was a chalupa-type thing too that had ground beef and cheese, lettuce,tomato and it was HEAVEN!!! (Sure miss those CHIPS though!!!!) I'm getting a little bored, because I tend to eat the same things most days, just because it's "comfortable" and "safe"...eggs or yogurt for breakfast, tuna or crab for lunch and a Lean Cuisine-type meal for supper. Add an after dinner cup of coffee and a "first thing when I get up" cup of coffee and that's my routine. It keeps me around 1000 cal, I know it will go down fine and I know I'm getting the protein needs met first. But, boy, could I use a steak, a hamburger, tortilla chips or fajitas!!! Those will come, just have to take it slow. Feeling good and in good spirits, but a little frustrated that I'm not losing anymore. Guess the exercise is going to have to get me past this "hurdle" **UGH** I HATE exercise! I just got a new scale also...it's aTanita brand, I think. It gives weight, body fat, total body water...with a personalized entry for your gender, age, etc. The body fat thing is down right depressing; the total body water helps me make sure I drink plenty...I'm not a water drinker at all and when I do drink, prefer coffee the most. Hoping all of you are enjoying some SPRING, wherever you are. Remember that we have each other and God is with us. How can we lose (anything other than weight!)!!! Talk to you all soon, Nanster

Hi All! Glad to report that I'm doing fine after yesterday's fill. The surgery center told me they gave me a 1.1cc fill. This morning I ate one scrambled egg. It was fine, but I felt pretty full and satisfied until lunch. (other than sipping coffee at my desk) For lunch, I had about 1/2-2/3 c. tuna salad. Did fine. Happy til supper. For supper, had a "lean gourmet" cheese lasagna. Did fine. Still happy now at 8:30 pm. Maybe I WAS just full from my 3pm yogurt. I seem to stay satisfied for about 4 hours! YEAHHHHHHHH!!! I have eaten cauliflower before, but my RNY-friend said maybe it was the "richness" of the cheese I put on it, not the cauliflower itself. I'll just have to see which foods work and don't...trial and error, I suppose. I don't understand the "spasms" either. No, I couldn't feel them, per se, but you could DEFINITELY see them on the fluoroscope! When I swallowed, the top of my stomach just pulsed. Noone said anything else, so I guess it doesn't matter, but I thought it odd that it has been "mentioned" each and every time I've had a fluoroscope. (including my pre-op upper GI!!) I'm still a little nervous about eating solids, but I'm going to start trying a few bites of something new at each meal so I can test stuff out. I'm excited that they suggested BEEF and CHICKEN and SALAD (which I thought would be no-no's forever!!) Oh, and I got my CAPSULE changed to a pill, so I can break it into pieces and NO BITTERNESS!!! Yeah! So far, all I can say has decreased in size is my wrist...my watch "hangs" on me now and it used to be skin tight! (I don't think that's a NSV though!) Several people have said my face is looking thinner, but I think it's my new (darker) hair color and/or the fact that I'm letting my hair grow out--but, I'll take what I can get!!!:biggrin1: :biggrin1: :biggrin1: I asked hubby last night (I actually kinda "set him up" I guess!) if he would love me more when I get skinny. He immediately said "no". (5 points for him!!) Then, he said, well if I love you the same and you're thinner, then I guess PER POUND I'll be loving you more! He's got a "unique" style, but I took it as a compliment. So, I'm ready to get MORE LOVE PER POUND!!! *grin* It's almost Friday, so everyone hang in there. Later, Nanster

P'Nut: You just cracked me up!!! Everyone at work kids me about the marks on my shirts in the boob area...I'm gonna look forward to a drop in the lap as well. I never thought of that as a NSV, but it's a GREAT one!!! ha ha Only a bandster would think of that!!! Ya'll are such fun...thanks so much for writing!!! Nanster

Welcome jtrek! You're a loser now too!!! A group we are all now HAPPY to be in! Hang in there, but let yourself be pampered too...surgery takes a lot out of you, regardless of how "serious" it is. Welcome to the club!!!!! Nanster

CarlaCollins: You're doing AWESOME!!! I had my 4 week appt today. They did a fill and I had lost only 15.6 pounds, but I was THRILLED. The fill was very easy, but tonight I did experience my first PB and it was miserable. But, maybe I just wasn't hungry! We'll see how things go over the next 2 days. They were shocked I was REALLY still eating mushies, so weren't sure if I needed a fill, but did one since it's 4 weeks. I'm excited about the prospect of REAL FOOD!!! A little scared of finding out which ones I CAN'T eat, but how else am I gonna find out??? I just hope I can eat ground beef...funny, but that's one of my favorite foods! You're ahead of me already, and I'm a little jealous (grin) but I'm SOOOOO excited for you!!! It doesn't matter how it's gone...it's gone and gone for good!!! You're an inspiration and someone for me to "chase" to catch up on weight loss!! LOL. Watch out for me as I come up from behind you!!! hee hee. You ROCK, Carla!!! Nanster

leenerbups: I also had dehydration issues as I withdrew from sugar and caffeine. I did some PediaSure freezer pops and also Gatorade and it really helped. (not lo-cal, but at this point in recovery, not the issue) I agree that if these things don't help RIGHT AWAY, get an IV. Dehydration is VERY hard on your body at any time, so even more so after surgery. Do whatever you need to to get it fixed. Then you'll really start feeling better and seeing improvement in every part of your body. Nanster

Hey Everyone! I might have to change my mind on my fill!!! Tonight I had only 3 bites of steamed cauliflower and, OMG the PB came on. I had saliva multiplying by the moment!! My chest felt like it would explode. Finally, I threw up those 3 bites and then felt fine. After about an hour, I had a little spoon of ice cream and a cup of coffee-both went down fine. So, I'm doing ALL mushies for 48 hrs. Hope I won't have to get an UNfill, but I need to be able to eat SOMETHING solid/semi-solid. They didn't tell me how much was put in, but I'm pretty sure it was less than 1cc, as I could see the syringe. She stated she was getting "resistance" when she pushed the saline into the band. I had had a yogurt at about 3 pm prior to eating the cauliflower at 6:15pm...maybe I was just still full??? Maybe it will be nice...I won't get hungry hardly at all and will lose regularly!!! I'll just have to see how it goes. I don't want to vomit every meal, but I am TOTALLY not hungry either!!! (For me, a real unusual event!!) Happy Wednesday everybody! Nanster

DanaClark2: Just another note-why I told you my mom's story-- there is no real data on the geriatric population with respect to EITHER procedure. The band has only been around 12 yrs so there's no real "database" of older patients to study. With no real solid information about long-term effects, I again preferred the lower risk, more conservative, REVERSIBLE procedure. As my MD said in the seminar...the band complication rates are actually HIGHER than RNY, but the consequences tend to be much more serious when they do happen. Most band issues are relatively easily resolved. Quite a few RNY issues can be life-threatening. Nanster

DanaClark2: I agree with everyone else here...you have to make your decision on what's right for YOU. We all have individual needs-physical and emotional and financial. We all bring our particular baggage too. Sorry to make a long story longer, but....my mom had a stomach ulcer from taking aspirin for a broken foot. It happened to be on a major artery, so she had to have 1/2 of her stomach removed in 1984. She basically had a "stomach stapling"-type gastrectomy..with most of the same "issues" as RNY'ers. Unfortunately, in 2003, when she was 76 yrs old, she started to really age and, because of the surgery, COULD NOT gain weight. She drank Ensure, Boost, ate constantly (but healthy, as she was diabetic) and couldn't gain. She passed away in Oct 2003. The doctors said the PRIMARY reason was that she could not get in enough nutrition to support life. AND NOW MY POINT..... That was one of my "baggage" issues. I asked my doc at the seminar the long-term effects --when I get older, would I have trouble sustaining my life with RNY vs. the band. One of the great things about the band is that, if necessary, it can just be unfilled. No extra surgery. With RNY, you have it FOREVER. Banding isn't a miracle. More of the "burden" of weight loss is directly on the patient. But, if you're serious enough to be banded (money, pain, etc.) then you must be sincere about changing your lifestyle and bettering your health. You MUST be highly motivated and it sounds like you are!! It IS only a tool, but it does give you some valuable help...staying fuller longer, providing negative feedback (PB's, etc.) when you overdo it, and this site gives a LOT of support for these changes to take place in a more pleasant environment. I have friends that have had RNY and wouldn't change a thing. I don't have any other band friends, except here on LBT. For me, the safer/more conservative approach was more to my liking for a variety of reasons. But, I realize that erosion, illness, slipping, etc. could all end it any time without notice. I believe I made the right choice FOR ME and I think there is NO RIGHT ANSWER. There are pro's and con's to EVERYTHING...you just have weigh it all out for your INDIVIDUAL situation and don't look back or second-guess yourself. Once you feel right about one or the other, do not let anyone else talk you into/out of anything else. YOU know what's best for YOUR body and YOUR psyche and YOUR life. Just my "two cents". (or more--maybe a dime's worth!) Nanster Banded 2-24-06 Pre-op: 258/Now: 243 (-15 pounds/1 month) 1st Fill today

Hi Everyone! Had my first post-op/fill appt today and it went well. They said I didn't have restriction, but questioned whether to do a fill since I haven't eaten "solids" yet. Finally decided to do a fill on me...it was totally painless. Then, had me sit and drink some water to be sure it would go down. No problems, so that was it!! One question: they said my stomach was "spasm-ing" when they did the fluoroscopy. That's what they told me right after surgery also. Noone indicated it was any problem, but I wondered what that means--does anyone know if/how that affects anything??? I don't burp or hiccup much, but I definitely do gurgle when I drink water. Just wondering why I have this or if it's a reaction to having something messed with, or what?! Magic: Welcome to our thread!! Hope to hear more of your experience with the band. Ms.Vicki: 20 pounds in 22 days is AWESOME!!! I was told today that I should try to mainly eat mushies for 24-48 hours (since my fill today), just in case there is any swelling and/or irritation. Otherwise, I am allowed to start eating solid food. YYYIIIIPPPPPEEEEEEEEE!!! (They were hesistant about a fill since I haven't eaten solids yet...I said "well, I thought I was supposed to do mushies for 4 wks...and they said "yeah, you're supposed to, but almost noone does for that long"!!) JerseyTammy: Didn't hear that about Star Jones. I agree that she likely had bypass, but no matter, because this really is a serious procedure, although it is taken quite lightly by many. I think we are in the "safer" group for sure, but it's still no small feat. Sorry to hear she's had such a serious setback. Hopefully she will recouperate fully. JanetC: My fill experience was much less of a big deal than I had fretted over too! I didn't even feel the needle and the worst part was having to drink the barium stuff twice!! Glad it WAS so benign...that way we won't hesitate to go back when needed, right? LOL skbishop: I'm with you on Chris, but I kinda like little Kevin too. (He's not gonna be the "idol" but he puts his heart in it and he actually carries a tune better than some!) Chris has the "star" factor in my book too!! Each week my preference changes on everyone EXCEPT Chris, because everyone's personality and talent either come through (or don't!!) based on the theme and their appearance and I think we see more of their TRUE personality the more we see them. I just would like to see it all jammed into only a ONE hour show!!! (Like I can't turn the channel after 1 hr, I know, but then how would I know who's any good?????? :eek: LOL. (o.k., so I'm addicted to it too...it's better than sitting eating!!) For all of you having fills soon....don't sweat it; it's not bad at all. Anybody have their nutritionist/doctor (or even wonder themself?!) about cholesterol issues? With all the eggs, seafood, egg drop soup I've consumed, I wonder if I need to be concerned? (I'm using eggbeaters now for scrambled eggs/omelets instead of real eggs.) My total cholesterol was 204 last month...not horribly high, but I wasn't eating all these eggs/seafood then!) Ya'll are the greatest thread on this site! Feb bandsters RULE!!!! Nanster

Sunta: Sorry to be so whiney! I'm actually doing quite well. I'm bummed that I'm not really losing steadily, but I'm feeling good and no problems eating. I'm not sure if I'll get a fill, but I see the PA this Wednesday. Julie: I'm experimenting with more "substantial" foods also. Tuna-good. Swedish meatballs-good. Steamed cauliflower-good. (I even had a couple of Cheetos...chewed really well...and they were fine). For some reason, salmon does NOT go down well for me. Compared to meatballs, you'd think it should be easy. And, like tuna, should be pretty mushy-but for some unknown reason, it did give me a chest pain to rival angina!! Once I walked around and it cleared, I had some yogurt and felt fine. Some people say chicken is difficult, others say ground beef, others say salad. I guess we just have to try it all and go slow...and take notes!!! No PB's yet for me...thank goodness. JanetC: thanks for keeping us Feb bandsters all connected and in touch...you do a great job "organizing" us. Nanster

I know EXACTLY how you feel...it's hard when everyone knows about your banding. I had taken off Friday and was supposed to be back to work Monday ("no problem" said the doc!) but I didn't follow a lo-cal diet pre-op. My withdrawals and blood sugar levels went nuts and I just couldn't function. I was weak, sweaty and shaky. I ended up having to take the next week off, so everyone pretty much found out about the surgery. I didn't mind people knowing (I'm not ashamed of doing it), but I didn't want the pressure of everyone asking "how much have you lost so far", etc., etc. (After all, I consider this a "last resort" since I've been unable to succeed at losing weight on my own.) I have only been banded 4 weeks and I've only lost 14 pounds, so I'm still feeling a little timid about talking about it too much. The questions have already started and everyone seems to be under the impression that I'll just DROP pounds every day...like my bypass buddy. It's just not like that (at least for me!) Some people thrive on the whole accountability thing...but I feel pressure and it's not productive for me. I would rather keep it quiet and see if people start noticing the difference in my face, my clothes, etc. Hang in There. If you don't have a choice, you just face it head on...and if anyone doesn't like it-- oh well, they'll get over it (or not!!) Nanster

I also recommend allowing someone to help you if you have anyone available. Not that you CAN'T take care of them yourself, but you will need the time to rest and heal. I left the surgery center within 2-3 hours of the procedure. A pillow on my tummy helped with the pain a lot. I dozed off and on that day. If you followed a low-cal diet pre-op, you'll probably feel fine (nutrition-wise) and can get around the house well and feel pretty decent except for tired and sore. If you DIDN'T follow a lo-cal diet Pre-op, be prepared for some weakness while you're on liquids only. Don't plan on lifting ANYTHING. Your tummy will hurt if you do and your left arm/shoulder/back will hurt more if you use it a lot. The gas they use does give you soreness there, but it's nagging, not excruciating. (And, you'll have pain med, if needed) Kinda like cramps during your period...makes you not want to do anything, but it's not really that PAINful, just uncomfortable. I guess this is kinda back and forth, with "yes" and "no" answers, but everyone IS different in how they handle surgery. Luckily, I had no real problem with anesthesia. My biggest problem immediately after surgery was trying to pee on my own...my muscles just were too tight and "high strung" so it took me a bit for them to "wake up" and to "relax" enough to go. My only real problem was not doing a pre-op lo-cal diet...my withdrawals and blood sugars went nuts!!! That was TEN TIMES worse than the surgery itself. That's my two cents. Hope it helps. Best wishes with your banding...you'll be a big loser like the rest of us real soon. Welcome to the family!!! Nanster

Carla: My first 48 hours were clear liquids, then plain(meaning milky, I guess) liquids through 2 weeks, then mushies. My mushies list includes grits, cream of wheat, oatmeal, tuna, salmon, deli-sliced meats, yogurt, soft veggies and soft cheese. I see the P.A. on Wednesday this week. I don't know if I'll get a "FILL" or not, but I will be asking quite a few questions for clarification. (Things I didn't know to ask BEFORE surgery!) When I get full, or if I drink a swig of water with a "dry" food (like tuna), I get that "HEAVY" feeling in my chest as well. Yes, I think that's a full feeling. It's not the same as before surgery when I would just overeat, but I think that's our "signal" now that we're banded. I am getting hungrier every day now. I guess that means I'm healing pretty well. I'm nervous over the thought of my first "FILL", but I also want to be more satisfied when I eat. I'm also frustrated because if I eat more than 800 cal/day I don't lose weight. SIGH. But, with all the help here on LBT, I'll get by. The worst is over....it's easier every day, I promise. We're on our way to a better life. Nanster:biggrin1:

Hey Carla! Glad to hear you're all done and banded! That car ride home must've seemed like forever, especially any little bump!! I personally felt like HELL for almost a full week. Not pain, but sugar/caffeine withdrawal and no energy from no food. The glucose IV they gave you indicates to me that your body type may be like mine and needs SOME sugar. I was told on day 5, when I was about to ask to have the band removed, that sugar is okay during your 4 week post-op recovery. They just don't want you to overdo it and they don't want you to get into any new bad habits, like drinking milkshakes, etc that will come back to be hard to break once you start eating "real" food again. When I called and was about to pass out ALL THE TIME, they said have warm tea with 2tsp sugar or have some ice cream or a milkshake. (or even better put some ice cream into Carnation Instant Breakfast/milk and/or into some Ensure, Boost or an Atkins shake (if you can handle artificial sweetener...I can't tolerate it...it makes me turn red, get a migraine and messes with my bladder) Once I started that, I started feeling SO much more human again!!:biggrin1: :biggrin1: I was lucky that anesthesia didn't make me nauseated, but my sister-in-law has it anytime she's had anesthesia-for her, it's the worst part of any surgery. They also suggested drinking a little coffee (if you're used to that) for caffeine. When you get past protein shakes only, try some Campbell's Beefy Mushroom soup (blenderized, of course) mixed with some instant mashed potatoes, pretty liquidy....YUMMY! Someone here posted it and it actually makes you feel like you're getting something "WORTHY" of eating...like a meal. That, potato soup and egg drop soup pulled me through! Some people eat "regular" food that they just put in a blender...I didn't, but appparently the doctors think it's fine. It's up to you. (looks gross but all tastes the same as before it was blenderized!!!) Glad to hear you were at your mom's -- let her baby you a little and you not have to do anything significant except rest and heal. Please remember to do the same once you get home. Housework, etc. can wait til you're feeling more yourself again. You MAY experience feelings of "what have I done?" and "I made a big mistake".....don't worry, we ALL did, from what I've seen on this sight. It WILL pass. You WILL get better almost every single day. You WILL be one of the ones posting to other newbies in no time!!! God Bless You. You've made a commitment to take care of your body and have a healthier life in the future. You are on your way and the worst is surely over. Drink water, eat protein. Rest. Heal. Pray. Read these posts. You'll be feeling better and looking GREAT real soon. We're all here for you. Hang in there. Nanster

Hi All! Well, I've hit a brick wall!! As long as I was taking in only 600-800 cal/day, I was losing steadily. Now I'm eating right at 1000 cal/day, I'm not losing and (mainly) fluctuating in the UPWARD direction!!! Is it just the dreaded "plateau" or thyroid (I'm hypothyroid) or what??? I was down a total of 16#, now it's only 12. (Still, all-in-all, that's the most I've EVER lost other than 3 months on Metabolife), but I'm scared that I'll have to eat at the 600-800 cal level FOREVER and that's not very much food!!! That's really just barely enough to keep from being weak! I'm walking more, but right now that's all I'm really doing for exercise-other than a few leg lifts, arm circles, stuff like that. Now, keep in mind that I had a knee replacement on the left and have bone-on-bone arthritis in the right, so I'm having to take even walking (beyond day-to-day activities) very slowly at first. I take Synthroid every day and my TSH, T4 almost always come out normal-including 2 months ago. Hubby and I went out to eat for the first time a couple nights ago...didn't work so well for me. I had less than one small filet of grilled fish and started feeling that "elephant on the chest" feeling coming on so I stopped. An hour later I was hungry. But, tonight I had some homemade tuna salad and it went down fine. (both were at night) I ate more tuna than the grilled fish too. I have not experienced a PB yet. I don't really feel "full" in the traditional eating sense, but I start to have the "elephant on the chest" feeling the more I eat. I'm keeping it at 2-4 oz at a meal. I can eat a full Dannon yogurt--is that TOO much? I also keep on hand those tiny "babybel" cheese wheels (about the size of a quarter) if I feel I need some food but am not really feeling hungry. I'm concerned about how many eggs I'm eating though!! I'm supposed to be watching my cholesterol...last month it was 204. (Not that bad, but too high per my MD) With the egg-drop Soup, omelets and scrambled eggs, I'm afraid it's too many!!! Any thoughts??? I feel good mostly. I sleep well. Still feel the port a little. Sometimes I get a "kink" under my left breast but it passes and is not severe. Occassionally, I feel a little sweaty and/or weak, which I take as a sign I need a little bite of something, but it's lessening each day. Today is 3 weeks out exactly. I'm really hoping I'll be able to start some "regular" food soon, although I'm thinking it's not going to go down very well unless it's "mushed up" good first. I'll write more "personals" tomorrow...time for bed now! Nanster