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I had my sleeve mid January. I waited a month before having any alcohol and only had a glass of wine. At 6 weeks, I had a martini. I drank both the wine and martini slowly over an hour or so. I didn't notice any difference than before my surgery.

Hi everyone. I have been hanging around lapbandtalk since August and now I can officially join a group! My doccs office called at 4:45 today and asked how December 3rd would work. I asked if there were any other dates in December and was told the 17th. So now I have to decide which one. We are supposed to host the pre-Christmas party coctail party for my husband's work on the 15th so I don't know if I should wait until after or if the 17th is too close to Christmas. Either way I won't be eating at the party (either post-op mushies or pre-op liquid!) And I am assuming that I can't have alcohol pre-op because of the shrinking liver thing so I don't know what to do!! What excuse should I use for not eating ? :help: I am a bit of a procrastinator so maybe the 17th will give me more time to get ready for Christmas with the hubby and three kids. Any ideas? Also I love the Merry Losers!

I have not denied the surgery nor have I said I did at any point. You might want to go back and look at my posts before you attack me, Steve. What I said about denial is the absolute truth. Before I could get help with my weight problem, I had to admit it was a problem that I needed help with and then ask for help. I've been fighting this for 30 years on my own and had not been winning the battle. In any arena where people are trying to be free of something that is weighing them down (alcohol, drugs, FOOD), they have to WANT help. I would not have been ready until I was ready to do it. People have been telling me about surgery forever. I had to get to this place on my own. I would be glad to be helpful to others, but I will never urge someone else to do this. People have to come to it on their own. I wouldn't want someone to regret doing it because they thought that what I told them about it was the gospel according to sleeve surgery. If something went wrong during their surgery, I would never forgive myself.

I wouldn't say they're jealous because they like to eat they all are obese ... Morbidly obese ...my sister in law had diabetes at 14 .. Now 21 she has to inject insulin. My other sister in law she's 14 and she has cholesterol and high blood pressure . My father in law has both diseases plus liver damage from alcohol abuse . ALTHOUGH my husband is morbid obese he doesn't have any diseases YET..... I think it's because they just want me to fail ... Idk really Myb it's just their personalities. Iam 5'0 205 starting weight 235 I've lost 30 lb in the last month. They notice I know they want to lose weight too because they're always in" diets ".

My doctor said he's not sure but I'm doing a hep A screening. I have not had any alcoholic beverages since I've been sick w the flu. :/ Looks like the AST is 106 and the ALT is 192.

TARPHR - I usually eat around 800 calories a day. I follow the rules and eat high protein (about 3 ounces at a time always measured!) avoiding sugar and carbs. I try do drink alcohol only once a week. Also, I track everything I eat on My Fitness Pal. I'm TinaATL on there and my diary is public if you want to exactly what type of foods I eat. I still have a piece of dark chocolate almost every day but it's just one 42 calorie Dove dark promise instead of a king size Snickers like in the "old days".

Now that is funny. I also think that it should be required to check the ID of everyone buying alcohol and those who have a DUI on their record should have a color coded license should be refused service.

I don't believe that driving drunk is a largely accepted social crime. I don't need or want to drink to be social, and I have no sympathy for anyone who gets a DWI. My own adult son got one once and I hoped they would throw the book at him! Don't get me wrong, I love him with all my heart, but how do you correct a wrong behavior? With discipline. Alcohol consumers have no business getting behind a wheel, and that goes for pot smokers as well. Anytime you are impaired mentally or emotionally (like right after the news of the death of a loved one, or a fight or intense argument with someone, after drug use, etc.)you should walk, not drive.

Sorry to hear about your financial problems, I cant imagine how it feels to have restrictions placed on seeking medical care because of finances we dont have that problem in the uk .. Are you still losing weight ? Often the band will loosen with weight loss on its own, and taking the pain meds will slow down your digestion and cause other problems too so i would try and cut them out or choose another type .. I would follow the common sense type tips for any reflux/heartburn and i would research the dietary rules just google it Eat 6 small meals instead of 3 big meals. Don't eat or drink anything 1 to 2 hours before going to bed. Avoid foods that are known to increase heartburn. Avoid bending over soon after eating. Avoid alcohol. Use an antacid. Sleep with your head and shoulder on an incline. Don't wear clothing that constricts the stomach. Don't smoke. Avoid activities that cause abdominal strain. I think if options are available for u to seek medical help then u should, the last thing u need is to take chances that u will end up with no choice but to get medical help if the bands slips or u cant eat/drink at all.. I really hope u can sort this out, some of the answers may be in your hands but some may not so u may end up having to get medical help no matter what .. good luck

It's not THE food, it's THE TYPE of foods. You can be addicted to sugars, starches (carbs) etc. Don't you think? Basically, all that metabolizes about the same as alcohol in your system. Then, we have the whole 'endorphin' process - which is very much linked to addiction. Makes alot of sense to me.

You must of missed my previous post where I stated that I no longer smoke and can't stand the smell of it due to pregnancy. You must of also missed the posts where I stated that I do agree with venue's either being totally smoke free or allowing smoke, that way the public is allowed to choose and no one has to be subjected to smoke if they don't want it. The last I checked I lived in a free country, so smokers should not be made to feel like the outcasts of society when there doing something that is totally legal. What got the fire going in my belly is years of comments such as "Don't you know it's bad for you" and "battery acid and ammonia" just to name a few. I will say it again, smokers are not dumb or stupid they know that it's not good for them, but like any addiction, smoking, over eating, drugs or alcohol it's an addiction.

Our town has a similar ban. The difference is that any establishment that makes more than 50% of its profit off of alcohol can have smoking. That leaves every public place, except bars, smoke free.

OMG--I can't friggin' breathe! Gasp! This thread is too funny! I remember reading the post about the alcohol. I didn't get it then and I still don't get it now! Yikes! I've been passing some of the posts by as well. I get a sharp pain in the center of my head sometimes after I read them. I'm pretty sure the sharp pain isn't caused by my band...do you think I need to see my doctor? LOL

It's because caffeine dehydrates you (as does alcohol of course) and with a limited intake of fluids and foods, you need to use everything you're taking in hydration wise.

Just be careful of the sugar alcohols those can give you the runs as well. I by a carb smart ice cream bar it has two grams sugar and 6 grams sugar alcohols that is on the lower side that I have found and they satisfy the sweet tooth. Even though I can't even eat half lol. surgery date 08-01-12

10 ADD/ADHD Myths By Karin A. Bilich Separate the fact from the fiction! Many parents are confused about exactly what Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) really are. The first thing you should know is that the two conditions, while slightly different, are now both being referred to in the medical community as ADHD. Here are 10 common myths -- and the scientific facts to dispel them -- that surround this disorder. Myth #1: Only kids who are hyper have ADHD. While hyperactivity is the most common symptom of ADHD, it is possible for a child to be suffering from the disorder without being hyperactive. ADHD actually has three subtypes: A predominantly inattentive subtype: Signs include becoming easily distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds; failing to pay attention to details and making careless mistakes; rarely following instructions carefully and completely; losing or forgetting things like toys, pencils, books, and tools needed for a task. A predominantly hyperactive-impulsive subtype: Signs include feeling restless, fidgeting and squirming; running, climbing, leaving a seat in situations where sitting or quiet behavior is expected; blurting out answers before hearing the entire question; and having difficulty waiting in line or for a turn. A combined subtype: Which is the most common of the three. Children who fit into only the first subtype may be suffering from ADHD without showing signs of hyperactivity. Myth #2: Children can outgrow ADHD. If left untreated, ADHD continues into adulthood. However, by developing their strengths, structuring their environments, and using medication when needed, children with ADHD can grow up to be adults leading very productive lives. In some careers, having a high-energy behavior pattern can be an asset. Myth #3: Children on ADHD medications are more likely to take drugs as teenagers. While it's true that people with ADHD are naturally impulsive and more likely to take risks, those patients taking stimulants for this disorder are actually at lower risk of using other drugs. Children and teenagers who have ADHD and also have coexisting conditions may be at high risk for drug and alcohol abuse, regardless of the medication used. Myth #4: Ritalin "cures" ADHD. Ritalin, a psychostimulant medication, is one of the most common forms of treatment for ADHD. It's been shown to help children focus and be less hyperactive. But in order to be most effective, it must be part of a larger treatment plan that may include academic help for the child and behavior-modification treatment. Myth #5: Kids with ADHD are just poorly disciplined. ADHD is a condition of the brain that makes it difficult for children to control their behavior. While researchers have been unable to find the exact cause of ADHD, they have discovered a distinct change in brain size and activity in children with ADHD. Because these children have difficulty controlling their behavior, they may be labeled "bad kids." This is far from the truth. Myth #6: Children on Ritalin will never grow to full size. Ritalin may have an effect on some children's growth. But recent studies have revealed that any effect on height is only temporary. Even children who are still taking the medicine throughout adolescence ultimately do achieve their normal height. Myth #7: ADHD can be treated through herbs and vitamins. You may have heard media reports or seen advertisements for "miracle cures" for ADHD. However, the following methods have not been proven to work in scientific studies: Optometric vision training (asserts that faulty eye movement and sensitivities cause the behavior problems) Megavitamins and mineral supplements Anti-motion-sickness medication (to treat the inner ear) Treatment for candida yeast infection EEG biofeedback (training to increase brain-wave activity) Applied kinesiology (realigning bones in the skull) Myth #8: ADHD is a result of a child eating too much sugar. Research doesn't support the theory that sugar can cause ADHD. In fact, it's highly unlikely that sugar intake can affect the size of parts of a child's brain, as is seen in patients with ADHD. Myth #9: ADHD isn't associated with any other conditions. The majority of children who have been diagnosed with ADHD have at least one coexisting condition. The most common conditions are: Conduct disorder: Up to 35 percent of children with ADHD also have oppositional conduct disorder. Children with this condition tend to lose their temper easily and are defiant and hostile toward authority figures. Studies show that this type of coexisting condition is most common among children with the primarily hyperactive/impulsive and combination types of ADHD. Mood disorders: About 18 percent of children with ADHD also have mood disorders, more frequently among children with inattentive and combined types of ADHD. Children with mood disorders or depression often require a different type of medication than those normally used. Anxiety disorders: These affect about 25 percent of children with ADHD. Children with anxiety disorders have difficulty functioning because of extreme feelings of fear, worry, or panic, and may frequently suffer from a racing pulse, sweating, diarrhea, and nausea. Counseling and/or medication may be needed to treat these coexisting conditions. Learning disabilities: Learning disabilities make it difficult for a child to master specific skills, such as reading or math. ADHD is not a learning disability in itself, but it's a common adjunct to learning disabilities. These two conditions together can make it very difficult for a child to do well in school. Myth #10: Kids with ADHD won't amount to anything. Many famous artists, scientists, and politicians had ADHD as children. Here's a list of some well-known celebrities with ADHD: Ansel Adams Charlotte/Emily Bronte Salvador Dali Emily Dickinson Ralph Waldo Emerson Benjamin Franklin Robert Frost Zsa Zsa Gabor Bill Gates John F. Kennedy Abraham Lincoln Mozart Jack Nicholson Eugene O'Neill Elvis Presley Joan Rivers Anne Sexton George Bernard Shaw Sylvester Stallone Vincent Van Gogh Robin Williams Tennessee Williams Virginia Woolf Wright Brothers Frank Lloyd Wright Sources: American Medical Association; American Academy of Pediatrics; Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute

I am a food addict. There are soooo many emotions that go along with realizing it, fighting it, and relapsing. I saw a show where the guy compared being a food addict to being an alcoholic who has to have a drink 4 to 6 times a day but not too much. I was able to quit drugs and cigs because I completely stopped having them. You just can't quit eating. It's a constant struggle. I have not found a psych in my area that specializes in food addiction but I am still looking. Good luck. Feel free to PM me if you need support.

Hello everyone, So I haven't had my surgery yet. Still seeing the nutritionist and getting all the pre-op work finished. Haven't set a date yet but they said 6 months after my consultation so around end of October early November. That being said I'm going to Los Angeles with my mom on May 1 and I'm scared I won't be able to enjoy everything I have planned so I'm hoping to get some incite from others who are 5/6 months post-op and/or have tried the questions I'm going to ask below. Questions: Please be respectful and honest if responding (: I'm very new to this and these are just some wondering questions I had floating around 1. So yes, we all get the point of the surgery is to lose weight and lead a healthy lifestyle BUT that doesn't mean we can't enjoy ourselves sometimes. My favorite food chain is in LA, In-N-Out Burger. Will I be able to eat a cheeseburger and small fry with like a milkshake? Clearly I won't be opting for this on the daily but we all still need to indulge in our favorites once in a while and I'm not sure how much of it I'll be able to eat I'm assuming maybe like 1/3 or maybe 1/2 of the entire meal. But does anyone have experience with eating cheeseburgers, fries and a milkshake on like a vacation or for just a little "cheat meal"? (Again, I get the point is to NOT eat these types of food but sometimes you have urges especially on vacations). 2. I absolutely LOVE sparkling water like La Croix and San Pellegrino, does anyone drink sparkling water on occasion? 3. Cocktails and Wine, I'm not sure about you but being 24 I like to have myself an occasional couple of social beverages, how was your experience with alcohol both mixed drinks (hard liquor) and wine? (Don't worry about beer I don't like it). 4. Not to generalize but I think a lot of people have a sweet tooth, I love the occasional scone, croissant, cookie, French macaron, etc. how has your experience with these types of baked pastries been? 5. Coffee. I'm ADDICTED to coffee and espresso beverages; lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, matcha lattes. How have these affected you and do you sweeten them at all or keep it plain? Can you sweeten them with like flavored syrups like a pump of lavender simple syrup or matcha powder? 6. Now I know the clear answer and feedback I'm going to get on this question but for those who aren't going to just simply says "QUIT!!!" then I'd appreciate an answer, don't answer this is you're going to lecture me on how bad this is in general regardless of VSG, I know it's bad, I'm not stupid but it's an addictive habit I'm trying to quit. Smoking. How have cigarettes or e-cigs like Juul's affected you? Does it bother your stomach or can you smoke without issue? If so how many cigarettes or Juul pods do you go through a day? 7. This is hopefully not going to be a struggle but when I eat I like to sip on water or unsweetened iced tea, coffee, etc. I know in the beginning you're supposed to drink like 30 minutes BEFORE consuming food. How soon after can you drink something? Also will there be a time when eventually I can have a beverage while eating a snack or meal? Or will I forever not be able to consume liquids and solids at the same time? Thank you guys so much for the support and I appreciate all of the insightful comments to come! Best of luck on your journey. xo, CashmereAndBones

I just found out from my surgeon why I was suppossed to wait til 3 months post-op... If there is a raw edge from the staple line, putting the alcohol on it can ulcerate it. Yikes, I'm resigned to wait for 4 more weeks now.

Alcohol is empty calories, but I do imbibe weekly. Red wine doesn't taste that great to me any more though :-(. Merlot Used to be my favorite. Now Pinot grigio goes down well. I just include it in my daily calorie carb count to make sure I don't go overboard. Also wine and different alcohols can be dehydrators so drink lots of water. I drink one extra glass of water per glass of wine. A few weeks ago, I had a margarita made with almond tequila. Oh my gosh it was good, but then I looked up the calories and about had a heart attack -- something like 600 calories! Not doing that again for a very long time if ever.

I am in the same boat. Three days until surgery. My surgeon’s record is almost perfect. Only one leak in many year doing about 500 per year, never killed anyone. The pre-op liquid diet has made me drop many pounds fast, which makes me think I could do this on my own, but then reality sets in and I know I will over eat. Its just a matter of time. Then I start thinking about all the life style changes I will be committing too. How will I spend my now idle time when food isn’t part of the equation? How do I deal with social interactions without food and beverage? No more alcohol. Ouch On the bright side getting my health back will be great. Everyone in my support group says you get more energy and feel much better fast. As you said a few weeks of struggle and everything should be better. I have to say everyone I have met that has had this surgery has enjoyed the benefits. Each one seems to have their own set of struggles, but they are content with their decision. It comes down to taking a leap of faith. If I make it though the surgery centers doors on Wednesday I will be asking for some pre-op drugs so that I dont turn and run. This is tough and I am scared. .

Well I made it! My surgery was at 4pm so I didn’t make it to my room until late. That first night was tough. I woke up from the surgery in a lot of pain but the nurse wasn’t giving me a lot of pain meds because I was breathing slowly. Luckily I was able to have my mom there because she works at the hospital. Yesterday was better. VERY sore at the incision sites, hard to tell if it’s the incisions or my insides that were hurting but the pain meds help wonders. Don’t hesitate to use the pain meds. Luckily I didn’t have much gas pain, I think they did a good job at removing the majority of it. I was still very sleepy from all the meds so I only walked 3-4 times during my stay in the hospital. They wanted to discharge me last night but I ended up staying last night and got discharged this morning. Only a little nauseous when I took the liquid Tylenol but they gave me Zoltan and oddly enough waving an alcohol swab in front of my nose helped wonders. I’m home now still in some pain but it’s most just tightness in my abdomen, still using the pain meds. I was a mess crying all the way up until I when to sleep but I survived and so will you! I’m having no trouble with water or protein shakes so that’s good

What you're feeling is completely normal at your phase. Please believe me, it gets better as your progress to eating more normal food. Try not to isolate yourself! It's super hard at first to see everyone enjoying food and alcohol around you, but as you progress to different foods, it will get easier. I think most of us felt the way you do at first, but it gets better! Hang in there! Why do you feel you're disappointing your husband?

You know what has happened to me... over time. I care less and less about my food addiction and more and more about the rest of my life. That doesn't happen overnight and I am FAR from perfect. I am a person who definately has "treats". I probably have one or two alcoholic drinks a week for example. I go out with friends and we sometimes like happy hours etc. I didn't do that during the loss phase, but now that i am in maintenance - it is something I really enjoy - it is a social event and in my world, "normal" behavior. I however KNOW that ice cream is a demon with a red dress on. That stuff is like poison to me... I eat it and can't seem to stop at a reasonable quantity... and then i feel physically sick. So, I don't want to tell people... go ahead and have that martini - because I don't know YOUR world and if you can control it appropriately. I do what works for me and one of the reasons I do 5:2 is so that during my non fast days I don't have to be quite so careful. I don't go crazy, but I feel normal ... and comfortable. I do really believe that people who want to get to goal should take seriously being pretty hard core in those early months... first year or so. My opinion... to each his own though.

Some of us have very serious and dangerous food addictions. Would you tell a recovering alcoholic it's ok to have an occasional drink and not to beat themselves up over it? Because that's what it's like for me. All it takes is just one slip up and it's like I fell off the wagon. I'm so happy for you that you don't have these issues, sincerely, but please don't judge those of us that do. For some of us that little slip of really can seem like the end of the world. Just saying. .. lol