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Welcome. I am new too. I haven't set my surgery date yet but will have the sleeve with Dr Aceves. I am happy for you that your wait is less than a week away! I totally relate to being overweight and obese forever - started for me at age 5 or 6 and then obese since high school --for past ten years or so I have been around 300lbs on a short 5'3" body. I think that food addiction is harder than nicotene or alcohol because we can't just quit eating food altogether. Please post about your surgery experience and about whether you get any vacationing in at the same time.:tongue_smilie:

Re diet soda, I had a bad diet Dr Pepper habit pre-op. I gave it up about 3 weeks prior to surgery and then the last week (on my liquid diet), I drank a couple thinking it would be my last chance. (My soda funeral) It didn't taste quite the same. I will tell you that post-op, I probably miss carbonation more than anything BUT honestly, what I miss is the "habit" and the "choice". I am almost 4 months post-op and what I crave is that part of my old lifestyle and haven't quite found a good substitute. I drink a lot of unsweet tea. BUT it does get easier. The first month as I drove past my favorite Breakfast stop, I really had to focus to keep driving. The last few weeks, I don't even see it anymore. Years and years ago when I first started considering WLS, I said I would never do it because I couldn't have soda or alcohol. Soda will never be a good choice and alcohol can be done in moderation after the weight loss phase. I wish I hadn't let those things keep me away this long though. All the benefits make it more than worth it and the "cravings" get better. Don't let this part hold you back. Re Cookies, I have not tried this yet, but I have read lots of folks cutting up Quest Protein bars into pieces (like maybe 8 pieces) and put them in the toaster oven, and they come out like cookies. A treat and you get your protein. If it is a trigger food for you that might lead to more not so healthy cookies, then don't do it, but if you can find a substitute for that craving that fits in to your food budget (and even better helps with protein needs), then all the better.

I appreciate your story CowgirlJane. I went through a difficult time with my son and DIL yesterday related to my behavior with my grandson and not respecting my DIL as the boy's mother. I must admit I have issues with her and they do spill over. Suffice to say I was very upset yesterday and Mother's Day is in jeopardy. When I got off the phone with my son, the first thing I wanted to do was eat. Anything. Just stuff my face. I wanted to lash out and defend myself...and since I couldn't, I wanted to eat instead. I know that this is my pattern...and I have to learn how not to go that route. Just like a drug addict..or an alcoholic. I know this morning that while the issues with my son and DIL are still unresolved, I at least am not mired in guilt because I also fell off the wagon. As far as your party...you know that you cannot control everything that happens when people are together. Sometimes feelings will be hurt or bruised...things will happen...things will be said. Please don't be tempted to throw out the baby with the bathwater because it sounds like this party was a huge step for you and with all huge steps comes some missteps at times. Just remember to keep on keeping on. Oh...and one more thing...I'm also terrified of being hurt and vulnerable and that was alot of the reasons behind my gaining so much weight...and being so afraid of putting myself out there so just know that even virtually, I have your back and am hoping only the best for you.

These are general supplements, most commonly given to alcoholics in the ER. When bariatric patients need supplementation, they need custom nutrients based on their individual levels. A general one really won't suffice.

(Repost from another board--I wasn't sure which was the best place to post!) Hello! I'm new to the community and wanted to take a moment to introduce myself. I had my WLS consultation yesterday, and have decided to pursue the gastric sleeve. I am fortunate that I have already gotten insurance approval, and upon completion of all of my pre-op tests/obligations, should be able to schedule surgery for sometime in the next 4-6 weeks. I've struggled with my weight my whole life, and am ready to get a handle on it. My BMI is currently 41. I'm a married mom of 2 young girls, and it is so important to me that they see me as a role model for a healthy lifestyle. Now is the time for me to get this under control. I'm anxious, but very excited about what my future holds. I'm looking forward to getting to know you all, and finding support here! Some questions I've thought of--if any of you have an insight, I'd love to hear it: -My FIL had gastric bypass several years back, and ended up with quite an alcohol problem afterwards (he is now going to AA and doing much better). This is one of my husband's main concerns for me about getting surgery--trading one addiction for another. I'm not a big drinker, so I don't see alcohol as being problematic--in fact, I plan to give it up entirely for the forseeable future, but perhaps shopping, or something else that could replace food in my life, is his concern. -I'd like to try and keep my surgery journey private for the time being. I'm worried about how to respond when people start noticing my weight. I have some ideas, but feel like I'll crack and tell people, then wish I hadn't. -I'm a straw drinker. I guzzle drinks quickly and am going to have to learn to sip. But I'll admit that I'm already in mourning over the loss of my straw. Is this forever? -I'm a Diet Coke addict. I look forward to breaking free of the hold it has over me (man, that sounds absurd--but it is true!) But I'll admit I'm mourning idea of that loss too. I'd like to think maybe someday I could have one occasionally (my surgeon seemed ok with moderate amounts of carbonated beverages after 6 mo out). But maybe it's time to cut the cord permanently. -I am afraid of the hair loss. My surgeon said its pretty inevitable, but should be temporary. My hair's pretty fine & thin anyway, so it concerns me. I'm hoping I'm able to keep it a minimum. Ok, I'm just rambling now. Thanks for taking the time to read this! I look forward to getting to know you all!

I only had one visit and a "test" (which was more like a survey on drug/alcohol use, eating patterns, and emotional balance). My insure covered some of the cost buy my additional fee was only $40 to cover the test analysis... Plus my psychologist had my letter written in about 5 mins.

Thanks Christy! I will be honest - i've done very little exercise - my guilty little secret is that i will "kick in the workouts" when i start hitting plateaus - which according to everyone on here are more common the less you weigh and closer you get to your goal. I still drink alcohol too - usually only one night a week - during my Sat. family poker games - and it's vodka with water/ice and a 1/2 pack of crystal light. The biggest help to me - I think - is this: I am on 800 calories per day per my surgeon. About 1 x every week to 10 days i go up to about 1200 calories for that day (possibly a little more or less) then go right back to the 800 calories per day thereafter. My weight loss counselor from my insurance company said that "mixing it up" like that every once in a while promotes weight loss because it shakes up the body and avoids the body getting so used to the 800 calories per day that it starts plateauing (spelling? LOL). I don't know the science behind it or whether that is a medical fact - but i'll tell you i truly think that's why i'm doing so well. Fills help too - i had no restriction at all for the first 4.5 months - it was pure will power. I have restriction now and cannot overeat even if i want to. You'll get there - congrats on your upcoming journey!!!!

I have to admit that I missed all my goals on Thursday and Friday and drank alcohol and ate fried foods. It was BAD - To make matters worse, I could eat ANYTHING - it's almost as if I magically lost restriction with the BAD foods - I am back on track today, and miraculously, my restriction is BACK!!!

Is wondering has anyone had any effects of alcohol and smoking after their band? Heard horrific story's of the effects of them with the band but also story's of no effects what so ever...

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.

So far from my work and/or work colleagues for Christmas: three course christmas dinner with all the alcohol won chocolate hamper at said christmas dinner christmas breakfast lunch bbq bottle of sparkling wine numerous small santa chocs one monster size toblerone $50 gift voucher (the boss) another small gift pack with two type of chocs tomorrow (last working day before Christmas woohoo) I understand we will be having another lunch. Nobody knows I have had an ESG, and surprisingly no one as asked (obviously all too polite) anything about my weight loss. A large number of the things above have been regifted, for the booze and what is left I will be taking Chrstmas day to my family Today I distributed my own gifts: two large panettones to the two people I work closest to choc hazelnut tubey things x 1 2 mini panettones lots of small santa chocs 1 small pack of doggie shaped scotch finger biscuits Christmas, food and treats all go hand in hand unfortunately lol. Thankfully I have had reasonable restraint and am doing well in not woofing down all all the above. Far cry from this time last year in which I would woof down everything include any food gifts I had bought and would need to buy a second lot of them.

I agree. I prefer the quest bars because they are low sugar and high Fiber. I am sure these are delicious but I ca't eat stuff with sugar alcohols in them.

Hi everyone. I had gastric bypass on September 28 and so far, things are great. I'm down 31 lbs., I feel fantastic and I've already been able to eliminate some medications. Here's my question... I was very constipated after surgery (which I know is to be expected) and had only gone 2 or 3 times in 3 weeks, even when using benefiber every morning and evening. After discussing with my doctor, I started fiber chews at twice the normal dose (2 chews twice a day) until things started moving normally, and two days ago knocked it back to 1 chew twice a day. Now, my poops are regular (usually once a day) but I'm concerned that they are very light colored and they float. I've done some research online and this can indicate several different things, including liver disease (I did have non-alcoholic fatty liver prior to surgery) or malabsorption (not getting enough nutrients). I'm just starting my soft foods phase, so I wasn't able to have much fiber until now but I'm curious if any others had experienced this particular issue, and if it turned out to me anything major. I feel better than I have in years and have so much energy, so I think if it were something serious I would know. I'd just like to see if anyone else had any insight. Thanks! Missy

Well tonight is my first party of the season and a little nervous about the whole drinking thing. But I will drink some tonight. Today I celebrate 8 weeks post op. Down 31 pounds today (all post op weight). My doctor said to wait about 8 weeks, well today is it :tt1: So my question is, does anyone have some low calorie beverage choices. I used to drink captain morgan spiced rum with diet coke...mmmmm. But obviously that is out . So what shall I do. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Happy holidays!

Constipation is a problem that I think all of us have had to deal with one time or another since we have been banded. Drinking plenty of water and getting some fiber in does help. I struggle with the fiber tabs, they give me so much gas, since my last fill if my bowels move 3 times a week I am lucky. I have done the sugar alcohol trick before and it will give you diarrhea if your lucky. good luck on your weight loss, it is so rewarding to lose at that rate in the beginning it is such a motivator and makes you realize that the band can and does work.

They say not to have any alcohol in the first few months, but it's not permanently banned or anything.

You'll get a hundred different answers and all of them are right if it works for them. My surgeon and his procedures have NOT been the norm from the get go compared to others going through this process. My surgery started off with only a one day fast before surgery, followed by outpatient VSG (I was home within a couple of hours) and my NUT supervised diet seemed to progress faster than others with me being able to eat/drink (only no carbonation) at 5 weeks out. I actually had to step away from the boards for a while because it was personally driving me insane to keep comparing myself to others. I've had everything under the sun to eat/drink (in moderation because of my sleeve) while traveling the globe since two months after surgery. I do keep proteins first, try to get in at least 60 grams daily, and limit any bad carbs/fat. Do I have cake, alcohol, chocolate... if I want it...sure!!! In very small amounts and not every day. I slip. For me this isn't a diet...it's my life. Forever!! I want to be healthier, but I also want to live!! And for me that includes not denying myself things I want. The sleeve helps me control it. Now in saying that I know the honeymoon period is going to end. I know it will be harder. And I know I'll have to work for it. But I take one day at a time and do what works for me as long as it is under my doctors guidelines. I had surgery November 26, 2014 and have lost a total of 96 pounds since the week before surgery.

I think you have to be careful how much you consume because you are eating less and because the alcohol turns into sugar in your body. Definitely need to wait 20 - 30 minutes before or after eating. Enjoy. Remember, everything in moderation. Drink slower. I'm anxious to reintroduce alcohol. I tried a few sips of beer after my surgery and it went well. Haven't tried wine or any hard liquor yet.

You don't worry about making the right choices, you just do it. You didn't have this surgery to continue on the path you were going down, you had it in order to take the oath you're on now...a healthier way of eating and living. You make food choices just the way you do every day like you have been. Just because you go on vacation doesn't mean you have to stop making those choices. In this day and age, there's something for everyone everywhere and if you're that concerned about making wrong choices, take things with you, such as Prepackaged Protein bars, low-carb, high protein pre-made slimfast drinks that can be poured over ice, and if you feel like you can splurge on an alcoholic drink, that's up to you. You could always just get sparkling Water with fresh lemon and a cherry if it'll make you feel like you're part of the crowd. I mean, why would you even ask the questions you asked? You know what you have to do to stay in track. You either choose to do it or you choose not to do it. Simple as that!

Name, real or screen~ Bandista Goal weight for May 31st~ 195 Weight on May 1st~ 204 Age~ 52 City/State~ New Hampshire Dietary goal for May~ Liver Cleansing diet, no alcohol, health protocol Exercise goal for May~ Add in new mini-elliptical exercise upstairs Personal goal for May~ Finish scanning all photos for various projects Date banded~ November 5th, 2014 Total weight loss since banding/pre op diet~ 44-46, depending on the day -- trying to get to 50 pounds down for my six month Bandaversary! Favorite Flower? Lisianthus

Go pick up the margarita mix. Just don't add the alcohol.

I am looking to book in my surgery soon but it's just hit me how much I rely on food smoking alcohol soft drinks as coping mechanisms. I don't have a happy life and I need to cope somehow. Has anyone else faced this issue and how did you cope post surgery. It feels scary to be without these things. Thanks Kate

I'm 11 months out and I simply eat healthy, balanced meals.....Protein, veggies, fruit, fiber and grains. I do avoid white carbs like bread, pasta, rice, and alcohol, but have any and all of them on occasion...probably 3-4 times/month (a lot more when on vacation). I don't measure my portions or count calories, carbs or fat. I have a 30-40g protein smoothie everyday so I don't have to worry about hitting my protein goals and I keep a running tally in my head so I know I'm hitting my fluid requirements. Been maintaining 10-12 pounds under goal for over 3 months, so gotta say this is the easiest "diet" I've ever been on.

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.

Just wanting to share my story and current status at 1 year in. I started the journey in June of 2020 after considering it for years. Having surgery was something that was in the back of my mind for years. I have a co-worker/friend who had gastric bypass about 3 years before me and quite honestly, she is the reason I ended up taking the plunge - Gastric Sleeve was the best choice for ME. Watching her journey and seeing her success motivated me. I appreciated the fact that she was willing to share her experiences both positive and negative. Prior to my meeting with the surgeon, she gave me a ton of insight on what to expect with both positives and negatives. Physically, I knew I was ready for a change. I needed to make sure I was also mentally ready for the change. I WAS! I started with a BMI > 40. I'm currently 80% complete towards my goal. I hoped that I would be at goal by now, but I'm ok that I'm not. Much of that is based on decisions that I've made with regards to how/what I eat and drink. I WILL get these last 20 off and hopefully another 10. I don't know how long it will take, and at this point, I'm not overly concerned if it takes another year. What's my life like now? I can move better,I can buy clothes anywhere, I'm confortable in my own skin (loose that it is!), and I have a newfound confidence in most everything that I do. I eat pretty much anything I want - Just in much smaller quantities. I've been lucky - So far, there's nothing that really upsets my stomach or makes me sick unless I eat too much (has only happened a couple of times). I drink alcohol when I want it - Some weeks I may have a drink or two a day, and then other times, I'll go weeks without a drink. Again, I'm ok with that - it works for me. Some weeks I gain, some weeks I lose. I've been horrible about tracking - However, if I see a gain, I start back just so that I become aware of exactly what is causing it. Again, OK with that. I DO get on the scale often. It works for me. Keeps me accountable. Every once in awhile I get frustrated with the restrictions (OMG, I ordered veal piccata the other day and it was AMAZING - I wished I could eat the whole darned thing at one sitting!!) - However, I choose to look at the upside now on this one - I ate it for 3 days!. Good food choice: NOPE - Worth it: YEP! For those just starting the journey, it isn't always easy - it isn't always fun. For ME, it's the best decision I've ever made for myself. It's definitely not a quick fix and I would encourage anyone who is using food as a coping mechanism to really look deep before you take the plunge. This surgery certainly doesn't "fix" anything like that. it's a tool (and a great one, but remember, the change is only to your stomach, not your brain) - I happen to be one of those people who just loves food, cooking, and the social aspect of it. Having the surgery has allowed me to continue that and still keep me in check with smaller portions. Hope this gives folks some insight into what CAN happen. We're all different and will have different experiences.