Wow, I have been reading for over 2 hrs now and there is a huge difference between what doctors say, but here is what I am doing and what has helped me.
Banded Oct. 2. Felt ravenous on 10/4, late night. I had only clear liquids, till that night.
I drank a protean shake and that helped some. I SIPPED it over a 30 minute period. About 8 oz.
Then I walked - that seems to help whenever I get hungry this is probably the biggest help for me. I then realize it is just head hunger and try to listen to my gut (pardon the metaphor), which tells me I am more full than I think.
I had some oatmeal about 1/2c- thin with salt and pepper- so tired of sweet stuff. Chewed and chewed till it was truly liquid.
I had 1/3 cup mashed potatoes with savory spices mixed into beef broth till it was thin soup. This helped the most. Again I took 1/2 hour to eat it. Felt full for 6 hours.
I have some very small bowls -about the same size as a large coffee cup w/o handle - this helps.
I get up after I eat and move around. This helps remind me I am full. I am trying very hard to listen to what my body says, not my fat head.
I use self talk when I see Carl's Jr. on TV - a. that would make me barf and barf for days.... b. is this tummy hunger or head hunger? c. stand up, stretch and feel my tummy then say to myself: ok, boy, I know you want that burger, they make it look reeeeaaaaal good. But do you want it bad enough to vomit for hours, screw up the LAP-BAND®®®®, make all that pain you went through for nothing? What do you want MORE? Finally I ask myself, will I feel better after I eat that greasy thing, or worse?
I usually say a few more words, but not sutiable for posting here!
I hope these Ideas help a little.
Good luck!!!!
