1shauna1

I liked that I didn't have to alter my anatomy. Either way I would be self pay because none is really covered in Canada (maybe bypass if you have health issues also, but I didn't/don't). If there is an issue it can be removed and your stomach is still there. I have had issues with being stuck, and obviously the first time is the worst. Now I feel I am old hat at it, it's not the end of the world, and it's usually my fault (because I'm not paying attention to how I am supposed to be eating). Do your research, talk to doctors (see multiple docs if you feel the need)....when you have your information you will be able to make an informed decision!

Sorry, I don't know what to do about those links! Do you have a Photobucket account? Very easy to set up....then choose the picture option that starts [img and copy and paste here, but change the IMG to lower case (at the beginning and end of the link). Let us know if you get it to work!

sliders are foods that pass the band easily and generally they are not too healthy, like ice cream, potato chips, cookies, etc.

Sliders are foods you can eat easily (and generally aren't too healthy for you, such as ice cream, potato chips, cookies, etc.). Could it be you are still maybe eating too large of a portion? Keep your meals to a cup maximum. If you have the good restriction then this should keep you full for several hours.

I'm not sure it's something I would try.... I read the FDA is trying to get it banned so I don't think it could be too good for you. However, I hope you have success, however you do it!

Good luck! I was outpatient and went home a few hours after surgery. Do what your doctor says and do take it easy the first few days. Take your pain pills! Follow your eating rules. Expect the gas....many people get it in their chest/shoulder. Gas X strips are great and you can easily take them after surgery. Stock up on your clear liquids for your first few days. Let your family wait on you!

Well, you could eat a bit more, just healthy stuff! Chow down on all the fruits and veggies (and even lean meats, if there are some you can't eat while banded) that give you issues when your band is tight! I would love to dive into some grapes and cherries, and a big veggie stir fry with lots of bean sprouts (whcih are now my nemesis) as weird as that sounds!

It's not....I understand the gossipy co workers. Well, when you come back and start eating small portions, they will know you are watching what you eat. You don't have to tell them, just say you are watching your portion sizes and eating healthy (which will be true!) and also exercising. I was lucky in that I had my surgery after I finished a college course but before I got my current job. So I didn't have to explain to work why I needed time off.

No, I haven't but it's too bad. I'm afraid if my band was emptied I'd go nuts eating too much as I did before. I guess for you right now it'll take more on your part to make it work until you get good restriction again. I hope you do soon!

I find white poultry often to be too dry as well. Without the skin, the dark meat is just as good but it tends to stay more moist because it has a bit more fat in it (honestly, it's more tasty also). I didn't find anything wrong with 54Shirley's recommendations except she seems a bit lax on the veggies. We are supposed to eat our protein, then veggies, then if we can a bit of starches. However, I admit myself I don't eat enough veggies or fruit because for me they are difficult, but I'm looking for other ways to get them in. As also stated, fruits with skins can be tough too. Follow your doc's recommendations for the stages after your surgery and I'm sure you'll do great!

Yes, yes, I'm not supposed to drink regularly, this I know! My question is, after a couple/four glasses of wine, I notice the next day that my band is tighter than usual. It does gradually ease up as the day goes on. Dehydration probably? Anyone else experience this? Also, I just realized today as I woke from a nap, that when I woke up I was as tight as I usually am in the mornings. Anyone else?

I just read your comment on the photo about the quarter...that seems then that the port isn't sitting right....see your doctor!

I posted on another topic as well, that one of the foods I am supposed to avoid according to my doctor is onions. I guess it's the texture (they can be stringy; also, asparagus). Haven't had issues with asparagus, but sometimes, with onions.

I don't really see how you could be stuck if you can drink water.....generally when I am stuck it has to come up. Did you have to bring up the gyro or did it go down? You could be just irritated. Try the papaya enzyme pills to help with stuck food.

Everyone is different. I am 1.5 years out and only down 32. So, you make me envious! You are doing great; you have lost weight that won't ever come back! And if you're continuously losing, then why complain? It's working!

Good advice about grating the vegetables....that would at least keep the pieces small! I'll have to try that.

Glad it wasn't as bad as you thought! I think I was actually advised to not watch TV, read etc. while eating because as you say, it can distract you. But I do that all the time....maybe part of the problem too!

Beautiful pictures, Sydney! I actually did some when I was younger (too old now!).

I do burp, usually with food. I think it's actually the stomach contracting working the food through. I also get the hiccups violently sometimes now, which I welcome because it's usually when I am/have been stuck and it actually helps with the contractions to work the food through. Yes, I know it's not so pleasant!! I actually burped a lot before the surgery, but that was more due to excess acid and I had an ulcer which they fixed in surgery.

I figured that it would be simliar with any weight loss surgery, that yes YOU still have to do most of the work because there are always ways to get around things. And there are many people who have gained weight after the sleeve or bypass because they can stretch their stomach back out. So, as usual, it's up to us to make it happen! Use your tool!

Elcee - thanks for that info. I'm expecting to get tighter in the air, then loosen up when I land. I plan to be careful about eating in the air because you're right, wouldn't want to get stuck there! Although, I could always claim air sickness! lol

Sounds yummy! I'm going to try it, thanks!

It's a good decision! I have no advice on the insurance thing; I had to self pay because in Ontario the band isn't covered. If you follow the rules and eat properly, you will lose weight. Some people do lose slower and want it to be faster, but as long as it's coming off, be happy! Good luck, I hope insurance is able to help you out!