Ladybandito

Helpful info for those just now looking into the band.

I think it is good that you are aware of your fear and vocalizing it, which minimizes the power on your psyche. In the past, my "fear" would actually lead me to derail my own success. With the band, I have more control over what I eat, and it gives me more time to grapple with negative feelings and to get past them. Whether we acknowledge it or not, fat layers do provide us a barrier between ourselves and others, even ourselves and the world at large. Personally, I felt a heavier weight "grounded" me; made me more "stable" and protected. Like I was afraid I would float away at a lower weight or something! Irrational, yes, but coming to terms with that has made me much more powerful in my own right. With less emphasis on my body, I spend more time looking inward. And I like that! Even though not many have replied here yet, I bet there are many, many of us who understand how you feel. Congrats on your success and to breaking through those scary feelings and settling into "you."

Wow, I don't know really. Mis73 posted above in this thread that hernias can cause a lot of problems, and I know she had one repaired... Maybe she will answer here? I never had symptoms from mine, which was corrected same time as band placement, so I don't know. It would be a shame to have multiple surgeries if the problem isn't resolved, but then again, what if it is? What is the doc's reasoning on what is wrong with the port? Bad placement? Twisted? Defective?

Greek yogurt is one of my go-to foods. I love it! I add sunflower seeds, sesame seeds or chia seeds. Gives it crunch, added protein, and nutrition.

Yes for me too. I never understood how some un-banded people could say "I'm too upset to eat." Now I do.

This is a really good thread. (bump)

Thx, I'll give them a try. Nice info share.

Let us know. I will be sending thoughts and prayers your way!

You Won! You Rock! Full steam ahead!!

I remember having that pain for a few weeks even. It became more mild, and just when I thought it would never end, it disappeared. GasX strips are very helpful, too.

I treadmill at home and do Pilates at the gym. Before I joined the class, I would walk regularly, and lift hand weight and do band resistance at home. Looking back, I wish I would have done more exercise early on, so newbies tale note!

Hollev, I'm just a little curious... Before the band, would you have stopped at two tacos, even? I know wouldn't have! Chalk it up to a done deal, and move on to tomorrow. The tacos won't derail you, although the salt content may raise Water weight on the scale for a day or two. I totally understand the "out of control feeling," and really think that's one of the best things the band has done for me -- even when I have a slip, it's never that big of a slip, and I can get back on the wagon .. Just like you will!

Will be thinking of and praying for you! Look forward to seeing your new after photos too! Get some rest now...

Just wondering the outcome?

Congrats to you! I felt the same bit of sadness at not getting to eat "a lot" at first, but you really do get used to it and that sadness goes away pretty quickly really. Just wanted to say you are a beautiful girl and I'm excited for your forthcoming success with the band! I really like seeing the successes of the younger women ... I waited until I was in my 40s to do this, and before that it was diet after diet after diet. Good for you for taking charge so early! :-)

I would say this is normal, although I keep my band relatively loose and can eat just about anything. I avoid rice and bread because of the carbs and the fact that they swell in your upper stomach, but if you can eat some meats (moist, tender) I would say you are fine as long as you're comfortable with it.

Great info. I never knew this, and I've been maximizing my protein trying to build muscle.

Have a great weekend everyone! I'll be running around as usual, so probably won't post, but will check in to see how you are doing. :-)

Also know that if you feel left shoulder pain for a while, that is normal too. Remembering back, I think the shoulder pain was the most discomfort I had, and it lasted a week or two (twinges here and there). Congrats!

I've seen online where some docs recommend them to protect the stomach, regardless of whether or not you have reflux. Did any of your surgeons recommend them, or do you take them? Just wondering...

Welcome on the bandwagon, and wishing you an easy peasy recovery! Remember your GasX strips and take it easy today.

I fly often, short flights and very long flights. No problems whatsoever. Good to stay hydrated as mentioned above, and be aware of whatever you might choose to eat. I cannot imagine being 'stuck' while confined in an airplane seat! Absolutely no reason for that to happen if you're paying attention. I guess what I'm saying is, you won't even notice your band, but don't forget it's there, either!!

Painting is great exercise Nicki. Uses all those upper back and mid back muscles we don't usually use. I know I'm at a weight many are still working to get to, but the frustration is still the same when the scale doesn't move, lol! I was not at my highest-weight-ever when I was banded and sometimes I forget how far I have come. Thank you for making me think of this! Pink to green ... How very grown up for your little one! How's everyone else doing out there??