Loyalfriend

It's been over three weeks since my surgery and my appetite has returned because I'm healing. Unfortunately, I've had a few emotional issues arise and I found bad food options that I could tolerate. Nothing too bad, but I'm still ashamed and scared to step on the scale. It's amazing how fast the devil tries to steal my joy, but that's ok because tomorrow is a new day and I'm going to straighten up and fly right. Thanks for listening to me and I'm taking my own advice that this band is a tool and it's up to me to make it work. I was doing well with my weight loss and I let someone throw me off my path, but I'm fighting my way back to the top and I have faith that I'm going to make it to the finish line.

Before the band I had to deal with several GI issues and Prevacid did not work, instead I went to Nexium and Zegrid. You may want to speak to you surgeon or PCP about trying those brands for a little while. Also, I understand work-related stress. It induced several of my health problems, so I started treating myself to a massage every now and then to relax. These are just suggestions. Good Luck

I have noticed so many changes already. One, my attitude has changed for the better. I'm happier :smile2:and I socialize with my co-workers more. Before I hid behind my desk because I was stressed and embarrased. I can tell my stomach is healing because I'm taking in more liquids. Yesterday, I took a fitness test with a trainer and I noticed a change in my BMI. Unfortunately, when I tried to hold the plank position I became weak and fell on my stomach:eek:. My stomach is sore and I pray I didn't do anything to my port. Thanks God, I have a doctor's appoinment tomorrow, so I'll see if I did any damage. I'm starting to miss food again, but once I get full I tend to forget about it. I'm continuing to read other people blogs to keep me motivated and mindful of how easy bad habits can come back in my life even with the band. Oh well. Life goes on and today is a new day. Time to continue on my journey and keep a positive mindset. Everyone have a Whoop-tastic Day:w00t:!!

You came to the right place. Food is an addiction and I know I use it for comfort at times. You have to be strong and start from the beginning. Liquid diet-mushies- then transition. I know being around people that eat makes it hard, but that's were willpower steps in. If you have to avoid meals with your family until you are able to handle it. When you are full you have throw the food away. Have you thought of joining support groups? Lap-band groups, over eaters anonymous, etc.... I'm thinking of attending myself, but I have wonderful support with friends and family (basically I have friends with the lap band so we support each other). You can do it. Remember all the hardwork you went through to get the band and how they remind us it's a tool and we have to do the rest. Weigh yourself everyday. It will make you conscious of your weight and help you make healthy choices. This next question is just a suggestion and I'm seriously thinking about it myself. Have you thought of counseling to assist? I wish you well, you will get back on track and do well. P.S. my bestfriend lost 100lbs with the lap-band and gained a significant amount back. Now we support each other and encourage exercise. You can do it. Take it one day at a time.

There is nothing like the present. You can always start implementing your healthy habits. I find that making those baby steps tends to keep those healthy habits come second hand.

Good Luck Laura, you can do it. If you need someone to rant to about your diet we are here to listen. I'm sure you will make it through your pre-op diet without a hitch. Have a wonderful Monday!!

Per my last blog, I love high-impact cardio class and I found my stomach too sore to do some of the moves. I went to Ross Dress for Less in the sport section. I brought an Adjustable Slimmerbelt for $5. It kept my stomach still while I worked out. Excellent purchase. Go get one if you are worried about your keeping your abs tight while working out. Good Luck.

I hope you find one. Unfortunately, I'm in NC, but if you can't I'll be happy to mail you one. Just let me know.

I'm still adapting to getting full so fast. I love my treadmill because I walk for five mins if I get too full. Yesterday, I went back to my high-impact cardio class (with the doctor's permission), but I had to take it easy and I sucked. I felt like it was first time working out. I couldn't make it through every routine, but it's a step. Also, my abs are still sore so I had to watch my moves so it didn't aggravate my abs. Unless you are active before surgery I would not suggest high- impact cardio so soon. I'm going to cardio class today with a goal of enduring more today. Also, I went window shopping to get in more cardio. I could wear a size 8 shoe. Normally I wear 8 1/2 show size. I've only lost 20lbs so I'm not going to get too excited about my shoe size. Although I will miss my shoe collection. As you can see I can't still too long so I try to keep moving (this is how i lost 90lbs and kept 70lbs off for the past year and a half). Everyone enjoy a beautiful Sunday!:thumbup:

Remember the band is a tool and the rest is up to you. I watched my best friend lose alot of weight with her band while eating bad foods and I was amazed to watch her continue to lose weight. Then a year later, she stopped losing weight and before she knew it gained 50lbs back. She had to start over with the liquid diet and all to get back to making better eating decisions. Since, I was going through the process and just banded we are motivating each other and I LEARNED from her mistakes. Apply those healthy habits and make it a routine. Easier said then done, but it's possible. Good Luck.

Oh I'm I know about the juggling act. LOL!

Congratulations! the short naps drove me crazy and I was having nightmares from keeping the tv on while I slept. Yes, i drink smoothies everyday, but the high protein smoothies. Actually, I had a yogurt shake and I did well. Remember you still need to follow your doctor's orders and continue to move around. I took some gas-x to help with the bloating and discomfort.

I took five days off from work, but when I returned I only worked half a day because I was exhausted. Most people take a week to two weeks. It all depends on your body. Also, you will be taking in less calories so your days will be short because of tiredness, which is normal. Good Luck!

It sounds like the normal gas pain from the surgery. They put gas in you to help lift your organs during surgery but it will subside with time. Just keep moving around, stretch, use a heating or cooling pad. Don't worry it will go away.

Your title made me laugh and I started thinking about what a hamburger taste like. I think I forgot. It's been so long (for me that is). Don't worry you will get use to the liquids and you will be able to tolerate being around skinny people eating their hamburgers while you are sipping on a Protein shake or broth. Just keep your eye on the prize. Good luck on your journey!

Remember the band is just a tool and you still have to do all the work. Here are little tricks I play with myself to get myself motivated: 1. Window shop at the mall w/o any money on you 2. Walk down the street and you have to walk back or you won't get home 3. Park further away in the parking lots 4. Get active..hang out with friends/family (if available) 5. Start over with the liquid only diet (I've read a few post where that works) 6. Remember how much time and money you put into the lap-band procedure, don't end up in that small percentage that fails. 7. Join weight watchers or similar group that gets you thinking about health eating habits 8. Most important.. Read a health tip daily to keep you conscious of your goals. 9. If this is an option for you, get a personal trainer 10. Go to a Zumba, Yoga, and/or Cardio class Good Luck on your journey. The fact that you reached out proves that you will be successful. Have a whoop-tastic Day!

As everyone agrees the SUGAR FREE popsicles are DA BOMB including sugar free je-llo!! Aso, I like the Isopure and the whey protein shots when I have a busy day.

Your story sounds similar to mine, but don't give up you can do it. It takes repetition to make something a habit so continue to modify your diet and exercise a little bit more and that 5% will be gone in no time. Trust me enjoy these days before you are diet is restricted (but for the better). We are all here to support you. Good Luck!

Congradulations on the weightloss and I know the feeling of buying clothes that ends up being too big a few days later. Oh well I'll take that deal anyday. LB used to get all my business now I don't step foot in that store because I don't want to step backwards. Fortunately, the smaller we get the cheaper the clothes cost and we end up with more clothes then before. Have a wonderful weekend!!

Congradulations on moving towards the soft foods phase. I'm still on the liquids for another week, but time is going by fast, so I'm sure I will be able to adapt. Congradulations on losing 29lbs. I've lost 20lbs so far, so hopefully I can lose 9 more before my doctor's appointment next week. Keep up the good work.

Congradulations on taking the first step in the right direction. Enjoy your seminar and get excited about this process because it will make this journey go easier. Take is one step at a time and put on your seat belts because this will be a rollercoaster ride. Have a wonderful day!

I finally feel like myself today. I have energy and I'm doing well with my diet and vitamin supplements. I've lost 20lbs since mid-August and I feel great!! My clothes has a little more room again and I'm excited about losing more weight. I've starting putting together a lil workout corner in my house. Starting with 1 piece at a time. I brought a used treadmill and it really helps me get in a lil workout in the morning. I hope everyone has a wonderful FRIDAY!! After 4 p.m. it the weekend BABY (for me that is)....:wink:

Time is going by so fast. I've returned to work and getting back in my regular routine. My band is good luck because it already brought me a "New To Me" car to compliment to NEW ME in progress!!! On another note, I feel full all the time but it's because I'm still swollen and it doesn't take much to make me full. I can only imagine when my stomach heals and I receive fills. I've lost 14lbs since I started the liquid diet over two weeks ago. and I'm praying for more to come off soon. I don't miss food anymore. I have an appetite sometimes but it goes quick when I drink something. Oh well. I hope everyone has a Whoop-tastic Day!! :smile:

Don't give up this is why we refer to it as a journey! But we are all here for you. Time will go by so fast and you will be on the two week pre-surgery liquid diet preparing for surgery in no time. I know it seems like a lot, but follow all the instructions to the "T" because it will make your prior authorization process go by easier. Honestly, all of those requirements does help prepare you because this is a major lifestyle change. Take it one day at a time and keep a postive attitude!! Good Luck.