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Hi, Have you considered checking out foodaddictsanonymous.org or seeing a therapist? I'm currently, an have been for almost five years, in intensive psychodynamic therapy. I've made so much progress since my surgery. It works. Best of luck to you. You're stronger than you think.

I just saw another thread that had several responses in the post-op thread. Maybe do a quick search and you can find the answers you are looking for now rather than waiting for responses here?

What an interesting question! I've never tried one of those but I could see how it would be strange to have everything all pushed in against your tummy.

I'm not near goal but feel pleased with my success so far. For me, following my surgeons orders to the letter has been key. I have strictly adhered to the meal plan - never cheated once although I know it will happen at some pint. Another thing that has been key is intensive psychodynamic therapy. I have to get my head in this game along with my body. I wish you all the best.

Rosarita Zesty Salsa Fat free Refried beans! Delish!

Hi Cara, Normally I wouldn't suggest this since you are just recently banded but have you considered counting calories and food journaling? I ask because it sounds like you are exercising already and with a gain, I just wonder what range of calories you might be taking in. I was on 1/4 cup of food for six weeks after surgery then told to increase to 1/3 cup for two weeks then 1/2 cup after that. I don't have any fill in my band yet but I'm not sure I need it. My next appointment is in early May so I might consider it then depending on how I'm doing. Sure, I get hungry but no matter what I stick to my surgeon's guidelines. I am waiting for the other shoe to fall and to experience the intense hunger that I read about. Bottom line here though - the first six weeks or so are for healing. That being said, most of us want to lose weight during that time and usually do. I found that food journaling helped me a lot - for example, when I saw that I had only taken in 500 calories but gained .2 on the scale then I realized it wasn't my fault for overeating (as it had been in the past). It helped me realize that sometimes other factors that are uncontrollable get in the way. Don't worry if it doesn't happen right away. It will happen. Also, Cara, since you identify as a food addict - have you considering attending Food Addicts Anonymous meetings? They have online meetings and local meetings (depending on where you live). Check out: http://www.foodaddictsanonymous.org/ Do you best to stick to your surgeon's plan. You'll do great.

How awesome! Are you having a boy or a girl?

Teehee!

I'm wondering if your surgeon put fluid in your band at the time of surgery. Some do and some don't. When I read about people having trouble swallowing liquid post op, that's usually the cause. Ask your surgeon. If there is fluid in your band then havin it removed might help. Best wishes.

I would suggest you talk to your surgeon about it.

I had very minimal gas pain except for right after I woke up from surgery. My shoulder ached a bit but it wasn't too bad for me. I never took gas-x or needed to but I did have it on hand just in case. I walked around a lot and maybe that's why I didn't have much pain. I only needed the liquid Lortab for one day. I took liquid Tylenol for one day after that and then didn't need any pain medication. I think it is really hard to predict pain. I am a wuss who puts band aids on paper cuts but this surgery was a breeze for me. I had expected it to be very painful and it wasn't. I do feel for those people that have a difficult recovery.

Well, you know better than anything what dogs do with and put in their mouths!

I think there is actually a disorder called Body Dysmorphic Disorder or maybe Body Dysmorphia.

Pretend their dog licked it and that's why they brought it in. Works for me!

I have to say that we December people kick butt!

I was just about to post this very suggestion.

How about scrambled eggs?

Yahoooooooooooooooo! That's excellent news!

Be honest. You can tell him/her that you wondered and know your choices are not good now but that you are ready for change.

I never blended anything. I ate beans and scrambled eggs. I also ate tuna and peas. My surgeon said I didn't have to blend any of those items. No problems at all.

I get my liquid Tylenol from CVS.

I didnt have a pre op diet other than soft foods the day before surgery. I really feel for those who have long restrictive pre op diets.

I have a feeling your surgeon may have put fluid in your band at the time of surgery. It might be a bit too much for you with the standard swelling. I suggest you call and find out. You might get some relief if it is removed. Best wishes!

Slider foods are foods that slide right through the band. Ice cream, pudding, etc. Doesn't matter if you drink Water with it or not. They are just foods that are not great choices that are generally eaten because they go right through.

Good for you! Looks like you are already making good progress! Keep it up!