Oceannites

Hello Bandsters, I am on the 2 month of a 6 month supervised diet. I hear many on this board say that the average weight loss is 1-2 pounds per week. I also hear many of you say that you were able to lose 20-50 pounds with diet and exercise alone but always gain it back. I've also heard it on here that the average weight loss is 50% of excess weight once banded. If those statistics are correct then was it really worth the risk of complications such as "errorsion of the band into the stomach" and other unknown complications 10-15 years post-op. It seems that the weight loss stats are really not that far off from diet and exercise. (I don't think my PCP supports the band except in extreme cases.) Although I have not formally been "supervised" during a diet I always seem to give up the diet since results come so slow. I want my younger person body back and want it now! Here is the nuts and bolts of my post. Could it be that I and most other people should give it 1-2 years of supervised diet and supervised execise rather than have something foreign placed into my body? I do have diabetes/sleep apnea/hypertention/ ect with a BMI 37.5 Did any of you have these type of second thoughts?

Hi all, I've yet to be banded and I"m looking to lose weight over the next six months. I would like to weigh my portion sizes to make sure that I'm only eating 3-4 oz of protein with meals. Is 3-4oz recommended? Where does one purchase a scale for this? Does anyone else weigh their food? Thanks for your help and advice. :laugh:

Congratulations Connie! It sounds like you have made all the right choices. Good luck with your future weight loss.

Thinking about what some people have had to go through just to get the band really puts things into perspective. A very very slow weight loss is better than being a self pay. Thanks !

I began my six month supervised diet last week. 1- My current BMI is 37.75 just 2.75 points above the min of 35 BMI required for surgery. If I lose more than 19 pounds over the next six months I do not qualify. Has anyone had to cheat in order not go under 35 BMI? Is this something that I should not worry about? I have a feeling that my PCP will question the failure more than 3 pounds a month. Plus, I feel it a waste not to make a 100% attempt at weight loss. Do I think too much? Thoughts?

Thanks for the tips on the book. I ordered it a few days ago. I'm looking forward to reading it.

What does DH stand for?:eek:

Thank you very much for your post. I am just starting this process. It seems so far away but your post gives me something to look forward to.

Thank you all so much for the information. It has helped me a great deal. :thumbup:

Hello Bandsters, Is it true that one must give up certain favorite foods for life? If true, that part is difficult to accept. For example, I love steak and cheece subs from subway. When if ever could I have one after having the operation?

Hello Bandsters, Can you please comment on the following questions regarding insurance requirements. 1) Psychological Evaluation and clearance - What is the visit like? What kind of questions? What is a MMPI? 2) Cardiac clearance - What happens at this visit? Did your PCP do a referral? How do you go about getting this documentation? 3) Documentation of a normal Thyroid function - How do you go about getting this documentation? 4) Pulmonary clearance - How do you go about getting this documenation?

Does anyone recommend here recommend a certain powdered drink? I just want to get an idea of what it tastes like. Thanks

Hi, Just wanted to say hi. I've attended the seminar and currently researching the lap band. This is a great site to assist my research.