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I was sooooo irritable last night, especially around dinner time. I had a bowl of green salad with lemon juice and an Optifast shake while my family ate lamb casserole. I really miss meat and cheese. I tried going caffeine free but by the end of Day Two I capitulated and decided that I would have one skim milk cappicino in the morning and then be super strict the rest of the time - it's working so far. I'm following Optifast intensive phase - replacing all meals with either the soup, shake or bar plus the 2 cups fo free vegetables (they've never tasted so good). I woke up at 1am this morning with stomach growls - I reassured myself that this was only temporary and that some people in the world went to bed hungry every night. Still I feel dreadful this morning, hungover withouth having had any fun!! Still, countdown is on, 10 days until surgery on July 31. Stay strong everyone! Cheers (an alcohol free one), Melanie:confused_smile:

I can manage some soda now without issue---do it on occasion. But just a drink or 2 of beer, has me burping ALL night. I cannot do it! I have drank other things, it is not the alcohol, it is the serious carbonation in the beer. I mean if you fill a cup with soda pop, it is usually over ice, which helps eliminate some carbonation, but the head on it disappears quickly, you can pour a beer, and it will sit with the head on it for a loooong time, and you see the bubbles coming up from the bottom of the glass forever! I do mixed drinks---have to skip the beer....which just does not seem right at the lake without beer! But even the bottled things like hard lemonade----way to carbonated. Like has been said though, I much prefer the 100+ pounds gone than the taste of that beer anyway! Kat

I went out to a H.S. reunion on Saturday night, and I had 2 glasses of wine, and sipped on a shot of Jagermeister. At the time, I seemed to stomach the alcohol just fine, and I made sure to have a few sips of Water before bed to wash everything down. I got up on Sunday, and drank some water. But we were going out to eat with some friends, and didn't get to eat until like 1pm. We ate at a hibachi, and I had a couple of pieces of sushi, plus a little bit off my husband's hibachi meal. It should definitely have been enough food to fill me up, but my stomach still felt funny, and my brain interpreted the sensation as hunger. Knowing that I had eaten enough, I didn't allow myself to eat again until around 6:30 pm. So basically I suffered all day with a feeling like hunger, and didn't do anything about it except drink water. Then, at 6:30, I ate dinner, leftovers from my husband's hibachi meal. I ate what I felt should be enough, and then stopped. I was STILL feeling hungry. I waited half an hour, and then ate some low fat ice cream. FINALLY, the feeling of hunger went away. So, my theory is that I had acid stomach and my brain was just reading the signals all wrong, that's why the milk-based ice cream helped. Does this sound like a feasible theory? I'm also concerned, because I feel hungry again all day today. I had my usual Breakfast Protein mix, and then I ate a half of a Panera bagel that someone evilly brought to work... then another half a couple of hours later. Too much food, I know! Am I just worrying too much? Could I have messed up my band that easily?

I don't tell people at work because of exactly that. I've gotten to the point where I also can't trust myself to hold my tongue. I'm not going to take comments about what I eat and not respond with questions like "Are you sure that alcohol fueled orgy you told everyone about was good for your health". "Has the doctor checked your liver lately becuase with your level of drinking I'm sure it's got problems." People should mind there own business! Very rarely do people say things because they want to be helpful. They say it to be superior.

For me there are several shades of green -- it's definitely more of a range or a zone then whatever pinnacle I sought to achieve at the start of this adventure. Like others, some days I am not hungry at all. I am never hungry before mid-day, and because my "rule" is to eat when I'm hungry and not eat if I'm not hungry, I just skip breakfast and enjoy my tea. I am always able to drink well and am even something of a glugger. Lately coffee (new to me) and sometimes tea can make my band noisy -- a throat gurgling that I find embarrassing. I still really enjoy food but part of that is my identity as a cook. I love food preparation and presentation. Often I will make something that I end up not wanting to eat but that is fine with me. I enjoy the process anyway. For example I made polenta the other day for the snowstorm. It's beautifully done with homemade stock, onions and garlic from our own garden, but one bite and I could see that, like rice, it's not band-friendly for me. I don't eat rice and don't miss it. Once in a blue moon I will have a taste of gluten-free Pasta but otherwise I don't eat pasta either. I have no cravings for foods I used to want before. I wouldn't try eating pizza because, to me, it's just not something I want and it's likely it would get stuck anyway. I haven't been officially stuck for quite a while but in my early months I had to learn a lot of behavioral modification. I eat with a very small shrimp fork and I have a long baby spoon I like for my yogurt, etc. When I eat yogurt, I mix in a little GF Cereal and some nuts, usually chia as well for digestion, and this makes it not be a slider for me. I know that chewing is the key to my satiety. I have a few weaknesses and do not restrict myself as that was a mentality that did nothing to serve me in the past. I often have to remind myself that I AM NOT ON A DIET. It's a mental thing with me. If there's something I want, I go ahead and have a bite. A friend brought a homemade carrot cake to a dinner the other night and I had my one bite just to be able to comment on it -- I really had no desire for even that bite, much less more. And I didn't even think of trying the frosting. The sugar may have set me off and there is no reason to set myself up for anything like that when I'm ambivalent in the first place. My weaknesses include cheese, which can be a slider for me, olives -- but I can have only a couple and take a long time to savor them. I do drink alcohol. Mostly I guess for me the green zone is about being able to really listen to my body because there is no distraction of my brain harping away about food.....that dialogue in my head has been eliminated and I am free to just live. I love that! I do not obsess about Protein, though I do love protein. Salmon is something I often order out in the world. I love beef, I cook with chicken thighs rather than breasts for the most part -- I make a lot of chilis and stews. If there's anything I miss it might be the giant salad lifestyle. You know, the HUGE bowl of salad (plenty of olive oil, of course) and really tearing into it. Well, if missing being a salad pig is my crisis, I guess I'm doing pretty well! Back to the unpredictability of my green zone -- there are times when I plan something, like going out to lunch, and have no appetite -- and other times when I am suddenly hungry. I eat then and I have to have it fast. My husband often fries me an egg for these occasions. It's as though when that urge comes on it needs to be immediate. Love it that my body tells me what it needs and all I have to do is follow.

My doc said no alcohol. Alcohol poisoning for someone who has had bariatric surgery is a very real and scary thing!

I'm banded since June 6th and I think the empty alcohol calories hurt me. How about you.

I have a question about drinking..... My Dr told me that I will not be able to drink like I used to at all he said you will get drunk ALOT quicker than before. I haven't had any alcohol since my band on August 8th but I'm going on vacation at the end of the month and me and my sister are planning on going out and I know I'll end up drinking but I'm wondering if I'm gonna be a light weight now LOL

I'm just checking in, too. I rarely come here anymore, but I've been feeling like I need to re-focus, you know? I've been at the same weight (144) for ages and ages, but I'd really like to lose another 15 and be down at 130. It's not so much the weight, but I'm feeling less in control of my eating than I used to feel. I'm reasonably good diet-wise, although I probably eat too many carbs and drink too many calories (lattes and alcohol are my biggest downfalls) but I mostly stick to "the rules" which helps a lot. I think right now I just mostly miss feeling like I was in charge, not my stomach. I get hungry more often than I used to. I might need a fill, since I haven't been to the doctor in a pretty long time - probably almost a year - and I can eat things that used to be hard, mainly hamburger and rice. I ate cold sushi recently without getting stuck and that's usually a big tip-off that I need a fill. My life is going through a lot of changes right now. It's my birthday tomorrow and I will now be closer to 40 than I am to 30. I'm not admitting to anyone how much that bothers me. I don't mind getting older. In fact, I love it, because I care less and less what others think of me. But I don't like it because my body is less able to adapt and to adjust. I need more sleep, I need better nutrition, I need to take better care of myself than I used to. And that bugs me. I'm not big on self-care. So, I'm glad there are still some people around. Our issues are so different than people who were just banded. I love my band. I would never go back for anything. But I'm still learning how to live with it and how to face that I still have weight issues, even after all of this time and work.

I am a nurse in the GI department of our hospital. I've seen the damage that alcohol can do to WLS patients, even years post op. I will never touch a drop of alcohol for the rest of my life. I've worked too hard to add any additional risk.

Net Carbs is Total Carbs minus the amount of Fiber and the amount of sugar alcohols. Total Carbs is all the carbs in the product. Net Carbs subtracts the carbs that are less likely to cause a reaction with your blood sugar. Hope this helps.

@elliekay I also think the question has to be asked about the quality of your 1100-1200 calories. What did it consist of? Was there alcohol involved? I generally think that you're traveling so you may have fluid retention in your limbs. You may also be full of poop! But...if it were me, and it has been this past year...I would go back to your 600-900 cals until your weight comes back down. Then start slowly and emphasis on SLOWLY raise your cals with lean proteins, healthy fats (avocado, butter -- yes, butter, etc), and low glycemic veggies and a tiny bit of fruit. I raised cals at first 50 cals per week, then later 100cals/1-2 weeks, then lastly 200 cals/2weeks. I went from eating liquid diet at 300-400 cals/day to eating at 1500 cals that way. The weight loss did level off and I'm basically in maintenance at 1500 cals which is where the surgeon wants me right now. If I had done it quickly though, I would have gained badly. Also, just 1 drink of alcohol makes me instantly put on 2lbs overnight. So it's just not worth it... Hope you get it figured out!!

1. food won't be the dominant thought but you will feel hungry at mealtime. 2. Thirst is an issue. I rarely get thirsty. You need to track your Water intake to make sure you get what your body needs. Sip, sip, sip. 3. Liquids was only 2 weeks post op moving on to mushy and by two months whole foods but remember to chew well. 4. Haven't heard about the hiney thing though it has far too. Many carbs. Alcohol sounds right. Moderation though empty calories. 5. Bread Pasta and rice should only be brought into diet when at goal weight. Still watch those carbs. 6. I agree that sweets do taste differently after surgery. Tastes even sweeter. Don't crave sweets as I did before. I have allergies and they don't effect the sleeve. Stress effects your stomach whether sleeved not sleeved or banded. And yes if I eat or drink very sweet high fat I get dumping sensation. Ue ice cream ice coffee etc. hope this helps. Good luck

It’s also to start to break some of your food cravings & get through the withdrawal side effects of stopping caffeine, sugar, alcohol, cigarettes, etc. as required by your surgeon. You don’t want to be experiencing those side effects while you’re you’re managing post surgery effects. Good luck.

These are terrific questions! I think everyone's answer will differ, so I don't want to speak for everyone's experience but I can tell a couple of my own experiences. I used to absolutely love Egg McMuffins. 300 calories, 17 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat....they're really not even that bad for you. I used to joke that they were my personal perfect comfort food....I loved the taste, felt accomplished that I had a favorite that wasn't that bad....and just generally was happy about them. I remember starting solids again after surgery and taking a little bite of one....expecting that wonderful feeling. It was like (pardon me) sex with no orgasm. Zero pleasure. It didn't taste gross or anything, but it wasn't wonderful anymore. All of my EggMcMagic was GONE. I wasn't angry, I wasn't relieved. I was sad. It was a weird loss. The better part of my brain was happy and proud I no longer had such an intensely happy feeling about them....because I know that's disordered eating and I wanted to get away from that. But the nostalgic part of me that was still busy coping....felt the loss deeply. Most days, I was happy and relieved that food seemed to be losing control in my life. It felt good to say no, to throw things away after a few bites. It felt good when I had that crazy moment and bought something terrible like a box of little donuts....took one bite and had the strength to say....What the hell am I doing? And throw them all away. I'm proud I can do that now. That I can have a screw up, get something really awful, and have one or two bites and throw the package away. We're not perfect. We'll have moments. But the ability to pull up sooner and right the course sooner...has been a welcome and wonderful change. And as the years have gone by, I'm getting even better at this. I buy a lot less stuff to throw away now. LOL. Some people have a lot of emotional upheaval after surgery. Marriages can get worse, relationships can change. Be very aware of and use caution with cross-over addictions. Watch alcohol, gambling, flirting, over-spending, substances. Anything that gives you a pop of pleasure and distraction....keep a close eye on. Lots of data to show those things can bite you in the butt. The struggle is real, but so are the rewards. It is WONDERFUL to be able to walk five miles a day and get things done. It is wonderful to find cute clothes that fit, and like how you look in pictures. It is wonderful to inspire folks you love to make healthier choices. Lots of stuff is so nice. I remember the first time I could shave my legs and breathe at the same time. LOL! I remember the first time I tried on a swimsuit and went...holy ****! this looks great on me! The little victories are so lovely. About acid reflux... I have had almost no problem with it, with one notable exception. If I eat and lie down, I can end up with very nasty acid. If I wait an hour after eating before laying down...zero problems. I just need to be careful not to snack right before bed, which is a bad idea anyway, so the reminder isn't even that bad. I get a little bit of heart burn laying down maybe once every month or two now. I take a swig of Pepto and it's gone in a few minutes. Wishing you the best.

When I drank alcohol for the first time, drinking some yummy Hurricanes, I cycled in and out of feeling tipsy and feeling sober. Real quick, it was odd

I'm 23 and haven't had any alcohol in about 4 months (my surgery was almost 3 months ago). I was never a big drinker to begin with, but I did recently ask my doctor about it at my last fill appointment. She suggests no alcohol for the first year post op, but that one drink on special occasions is fine. Keep in mind alcohol does effect most of us more/quicker once we have the band, and it is empty calories. Like everything else, it's okay in moderation as long as we plan for it.

I guess we all just have to take a look at our personal situation and decide what will work for us individually. An occasional drink or two will not wreck everything if you are sensible and don't overdo it. As a veteran bandster, I can tell you I allowed alcohol sensibly and it did not hinder my weight loss. I lost most of my weight within 9 months, lost 100% of my excess weight in the first year and I have kept if off and lost a little more in the four years since I was banded without denying myself much of anything including a drink when I wanted one. I respect the choice of those who choose to keep diaries and scrutinize everything, if it works for you and you are happy with that, then that is wonderful. I didn't do all of that and my way worked for me. Just be respectful of those of us who choose our own way, none of us have all of the answers, share your experiences then let everyone take their own paths on this journey.

I do respect your opinion though. I would like to add there are a lot of successful people on this forum who drink alcohol. Just because you consume alcohol doesn't mean you get "shitfaced". I enjoying the relaxing and fun feeling. You should look up other alcohol topics and read the debate.

I am a biker who is in a club, and the only thing we really do is ride and Party! I am about 10 weeks post op and down about 40lbs so far and I drink about once a week. I used to drink pretty heavy pre surgery, but now I am much more careful due to the calorie intake. I have stayed away from Beer and soda (hard since I love Burbon and coke) but have found whiskey sours to be just fine. I mix them myself, using crystal light lemonade and they are pretty good. If I'm @ the bar I just order a shot and a glass of water then I mix my own and has never been an issue yet. I would be careful right after post op, alcohol and meds don't mix well. Other than that, drink and be merry!

Alcohol is one of those hot button topics like soda, caffeine, etc.... You will get responses all over the spectrum. Some will tell you nothing is off limits others will tell you that blood will shoot from your eyes if you ever sniff the stuff again... :cursing: YMMV... Personally, I preferred to get a good chunk of weight loss behind me first because alcohol is not just empty calories, but very dense since it has 7 calories per gram. I don't drink very often but when I do I drink pretty much whatever I choose - beer included. Carbonated beverages don't cause me any trouble - so long as I drink slowly. Chug a carbonated beverage while your band is sufficiently restricted and you'll quickly be schooled in a physics lesson. :scared2:

I think your response is very one sided. People don't just drink to " go out every other weekend bar hopping and getting shitfaced". Everyone's Dr's instructions are different. I was up front with Dr saying I didn't plan on giving up drinking and he said he saw now reason to give it up but wait a month to heal. You can be very successful and enjoying going out and drinking. It's something I enjoy and why should I have to give up somethin I enjoy. To me the band isn't about depriving yourself of everything you enjoy. It's about portion control and making better choices. Everyone seems to be aware that alcohol has empty calories but you can factor it into your diet.

Well, I still have cravings. My stomach was operated on, not my brain. I agree with Cathy, the band is not meant to be a permanent punishment. Portion control is the key. If you enjoy spaghetti, you can continue to enjoy it, eaten slowly and in moderation. A small hamburger? If it is not a problem getting through your band, is something that you could have occasionally. However, if you are like an alcoholic with food, like "one is not enough" then probably staying away from the "one" is best. For me, I don't have a problem with eating one of my daughter's french fries and being satisfied.

How long after surgery did you have your first alcoholic drink, and what was your reaction to it?

Alcohol is really dehydrating. Make it difficult on the band because the body retains fluids.