Valieb43

A relatively inexpensive alternative to the traditional protein shakes is something that has worked for me for a few months. I buy the no-sugar added carnation instant breakfasts in vanilla. I use 1 % milk and a scoop of unflavored protein powder by Fusion. I find that the Fusion does not taste like anything at all. I then add either a splash of vanilla extract or some pumpkin pie spice to the mix, along with ice and shake vigorously. Ends up being about 35 grams of protein... Good luck!!

I enjoy the Carnation Instant Breakfast (no sugar added) with 1% milk, a scoop of unflavored protein powder (27 grams of protein), a splenda packet and some pumpkin pie spice. Tastes like a pumpkin ice cream milkshake...and keeps me full until lunch.

Speaking for myself, and I am sure many of the people who have had WLS, the problem with our weight stems from our unhealthy relationship with food. I was just banded on Nov 16th, and think that I definitely made the right decision. As a society we focus too much on food as a way to entertain ourselves, not a way to survive. My grandmother used to taunt me about my weight when I was growing up, saying we should eat to live, not live to eat. That is the purpose of the band, and unfortunately it sounds like WLS wasnt a good choice for those who feel that they can no longer "enjoy life." To me, being 30 and taking blood pressure meds and testing my blood sugar is no way to enjoy my life, so if I never eat at a buffett or have a dozen chicken wings in one sitting again, I am ok with that. The money I save on Co-pays for meds and testing supplies can now be spent on clothes and accessories to make my new, thinner self happy. I am fortunate enough to have such supportive friends and family, who dont care that I am not chowing down at the table with them, but instead just there to enjoy their company.

I was jittery 1 day post op (I just had my band placed Monday the 16th) and it was because my blood sugar was 45...normally it is in the 120's. Just an idea! How long til this GAS GOES AWAY!! I just want to burp and feel better!

Hello! So I am a little frustrated with this whole process. I approached the idea back in February, and finally acted on it in April when I was diagnosed with Diabetes, high BP, and high cholesterol. All of this at the ripe old age of 29. So, my PCP recommends a surgeon, and its the same center where my friend just had gastric bypass done. She raved about the center, and she looks fantastic, so I felt like I was in good hands. Well, the seem to do everything backwards, or they just fail to communicate. I called to make an appt in April, and was told to fill out some paperwork, see the psychologist, see the nutritionist and then we will schedule you to meet with the surgeon. Sounded a little odd to me, that you would do all of these things before actually talking to a dr who would tell me if I should even be considering this surgery. I go to the 2nd part of the psych eval last week, and he advises me that I have to be smoke free for 2 month pre-op. Well, it would have been nice to have been told that 2 months ago. Then I am reading about this 6 month eating plan?? I thought I went to the nutritionist, lost 5% of my weight (my ins requires it), and then would have surgery. Now it seems like it is going to be at least another 6 months before I even get to the approval process from my health insurance. AAAAGGGHHHH. Not only am I spending money on my copays for all of these visits, I cannot make plans to do anything for like the next 6 months, because I have NO idea what is going on. I mailed them my new patient registration packet 6 weeks ago, and called to follow up. The only thing they had was my letter of necessity from my dr. So, had to resend that info, and will be calling tomorrow to follow up to see it was received. I would like to get this done before Christmas, but it doesnt seem like that will be the case. Why does it seem like banding requires you to jump through hoops, but bypass is just "see the shrink and we will schedule you":cursing:

Hello all! My name is Val and I live in Buffalo...and I am tired of being overweight. I am 6'1", and tipping the scales at 280. That would be awesome stats, if I was on the defensive line for the Bills. Instead, I am a bubbly blonde who is trapped inside her body. This is my first time reading over this site, and I have to say that I am inspired. I have been doing research, talking to family, friends and my doctor about Lap-Band, and have gotten sooo much feedback. I wish I could say that it was all positive :wink: My mom is scared, and doesnt understand why I cant "just lose the weight." She is 5'5" and weighs about 150...and thinks she is fat. My boyfriend is a big guy, but he just wants me to be happy and healthy, so he is being supportive. I have a few friends who are very excited for me, and a few who have struggled with their own weight, and are now envious. I guess I dont see what there is to be envious about...I am built like a linebacker, I was recently diagnosed with diabetes, my blood pressure is high, and my cholesterol could use some attention. Last I checked it wasn't cool the carry around a glucose meter in your Coach purse....before you are even 30!!!! I am also a little frustrated with the people who tell me that I dont need surgery, and that I am fine the way I am. It isn't that I dont like myself...because I know that I have a lot going for me, but I cant do much if I am winded when I walk upstairs, or when I am scared of having a heart attack. I realize I am saying a lot for my introduction, but it was great to come across a place where you can talk to people who understand. I have started the process, and am hoping to have the surgery at the end of the summer. My health insurance is pretty strict, so I have to go to all sorts of appointments 1st. I appreciate you taking the time to check me out.... Chat soon!