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HI guys....I've been MIA for a few weeks, and have just read all the posts I have missed. Sounds like many of you are doing all the right stuff to get back on track. Congratulations on the re-comittment to yourself! Scrappy, so glad to hear that your healing is going well. You are an inspiration. Amanda, sounds like the trip to Alaska and the memorial for your mom all went well. Been thinking about you. I have more issues....as Fenton so kindly once pointed out I must have been really bad in a previous life.... I have lumps....on my hips....they are weird. I felt one in the shower one day a few weeks ago and figured it was a lipoma (benign fatty lump) No biggy! Well, over the next week a new one popped up on the other side that was painfull...so I took a look at work one day. Well, it did not look like any lipoma I had ever seen and surprise, surprise there were many of them. I showed a couple of radiologists and they immediatly suggested getting a biopsy. Of course life does not move that quickly.... Now after another sonogram and consults with my doctor and another radiologist I have a CT scan of the pelvis scheduled for Weds and an appointment with a surgeon scheduled for August 3rd (masses on the hip are not so urgent). They are doing the CT scan before they will do a ultrasound guided biopsy of the largest lesion on my left hip....that's the fastest growing and the strangest looking on ultrasound. Well....it no longer hurts and it seems to have slowed the growth...all good things. The worst it could be as far as I can tell is a liposarcoma and the most likely is fat necrosis (but why the heck is the fat around my hips dying/growing/hurting?????) I figure if it's not cancer of some kind, maybe it will be one more thing to present to the insurance when I want my tummy tuck. If I have panniculitis (fat necrosis) it would be a good reson for a panniculectomy, and maybe they could fix my hernia at the same time. The stress of all this combined with my mother having hip replacement surgery and my lovely husband thinking I am having an affair (HA-HA-HA) has led me to a 13 pound weight gain over my lowest weight. YUCK! Still have a very hard time with solid Proteins (empty band) and the bad stuff goes down oh so easy! Christine

I PB'd and slimed a few times during the past week -- I was still on liquids at the time, and misjudging small container as well as not noticing the difference between that tightness in my throat from having too much versus the similarly-felt ache from just having the surgery a week ago. I felt like hell. It was one of the least dignified and humiliating experiences of recent memory. But I'm getting the hang of it, I think. I'm sure I'll have others along the way. But what I'm mostly concerned about is the six-inch sub. Plus the Cookies. The cookies shouldn't even be on your plate, I'd wager, but the sub? I could see the non-bread portions of the six-inch sub, maybe spread over two meals, but the bread itself isn't doing you that much good: too many calories for too little nutritive value. You have a limited budget -- physically, if nothing else -- and you need to spend it wisely. Even switching from hoagie roll to a low-carb/high-Fiber tortilla would probably be better. Switching to a lettuce wrap would be better yet (if you can manage lettuce -- this is a way I've enjoyed sandwiches in the past). Thin-sliced discs of apple? There are a variety of better choices that should be able to substitute in some measure for what the sub loaf provided, and perhaps excel in ways that loaf cannot. You have to remember that the band only helps through your efforts and good choices. I'd be concerned that if what you described is your typical pattern, that it will lead toward recklessness that'll derail you. I know for my own part that this is the sort of behavior largely responsible for getting me where I was when I started pre-op. So just because you *can* have a sub and 3 cookies doesn't mean you should, restriction or no. I know that can be difficult -- I'd love to have a rather slab-o-meat and gnaw on that for an hour right now. But even if it were fat-free, and despite all the wonderful Protein it'd provide me right when I need it to heal, it would still be a bad choice, right? Dividing it among many, appropriately-sized and -spaced meals -- good choice. Do you keep a food diary or somesuch to keep track of what your food intake is providing you? Do you have the support of a nutritionist or other qualified person to help guide your food choices post-op, and to who you can feel accountable to? I know a lot of people don't -- I do, and I have to say it's helped to have someone scold me (gently) in between praising the parts I've done well, and of whom I could ask questions about how I should approach certain foods (preparation ideas, suitability, problems noted by other patients, what I medically need at this stage, etc). Don't take this as criticism -- it's more concern. I've heard of and seen a lot of folks crowing over being able to revert to the same eating habits that led to their weight gain in the first place ("I just managed to eat a whole cheeseburger with PBing!", "I just ate an entire Hershey's bar without dumping!"), and in the same breath complain that they gained back some of the pounds they fought very hard to lose. This post (and a few others) raised warning flags. Good luck with the fills. I'm expecting my first at the end of the month, if they decide I need one.

mother natures nature's miracle is a liquid vitamin that i have used for years. i really love using it before surgeries because it makes me heal faster. it is really great it has everything and then some in it, even protein. it is a small company and their site is not fancy but the product is really great. Mother Nature's Miracle? | Liquid Vitamins | Eden's Miracle of Mother Nature | natural vitamin program Vitamins Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Vitamin A; Beta Carotene 14,000 IU Cancer Prevention, Prevents Eye Problems, used for Acne, Ulcers, & Tissue maintenance repair. Enhances Immunity. Protects against Pollution. Vitamin B6 (As Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 4 mg Maintains health nerves, Skin Eyes, Hair, Liver, Mouth, Muscle Tone, & G.I. Tract. Coenzyme, Energy Production, used for Depression, Anxiety, Metabolisrn / Stress & Prevents Anemia Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) 1000 mcg Skin, Eyesight, Fatigue, Abnormal Sleep Patterns Vitamin C 1200 mg Helps Wounds, Surgery, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Immune System, Heart Disease, Cancer Prevention, Bleeding Gums, Protects against Pollution. Vitamin D 1 800 IU Osteoporosis, High blood pressure, increases the absorption of minerals. Vitamin E 1 180 IU Antioxidant, Cancer prevention, Tissue repair, improves circulation, Prevents Age Spots, & PMS Vitamin K 170 mcg Blood Clotting, Tissue repair, Bone formation, may prevent Osteoporosis. Sulfur** Degeneration of cartilage, ligaments & tendons Lupus, Sickle Anemia, & Collagen Diseases Copper 2mg White/Grey or Brittle hair, Hernias, Varicose Veins, Aneurysms, Anemia, Hypo or Hyper Thyroidism, Arthritis, Liver Cirrhosis, Violent Behavior, & Learning Disabilities. Coral Calcium 1100 mg Osteoporosis, Receding Gums, Arthritis, High Blood Pressure, Insomnia Kidney Stones, Bone Spurs, Calcium Deposits, Cramps, Twitches, & Bells Palsy Iodine 320 mcg Fatigue, Colds, Muscle Pains, Heavy Periods, Low Sex Drive, Brittle Nails, Weight Gains, Hair Loss, Muscle Cramps, Depression, Puffy Face, Dry Skin & Hair, Poor Memory. Magnesium 260 mg Asthma, Anorexia, Migraines, Growth Failures, Muscle Weakness, Tremors, Vertigo & Small Arteries Iron 10mg Hemoglobin, Pica, Fatigue, Heart Palpitations, Memory Deficits & Anemia Phosphorous 500 mcg Brittle Bone, Low Energy, Inability to break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates Potassium 300 mg Muscular Weakness, Mental Apathy, FACT: May lower Blood Pressure Zinc 30 mg Impaired ability to heal, hair loss, fatigue and acne Chromium 200 mcg Depressed Growth Rate, Glucose Intolerance in Diabetics CoQ10 3mg Anti Oxidant, Cancer, Heart Disease, Poor Immune System Herbs Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Gingko Biloba 100 mg Improves Memory, Brain Function, Blood Flow, Depression, Oxygenation, Asthma, Alzheimer's Disease, Heart & Kidney Disorders. Aloe Vera 6000 mg Restores Tissue, Anesthetic, Heals Burns, Itching, Regenerates with no Sear. Ginseng 500 mg Used for Impotence, Energy, Diabetes, Colds & Chest Problems. i Enhances Immune Functions & normalizes B.P. Enzymes Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Proprietary Formula Amylase Is the digestive enzyme used to digest carbohydrates Lipase Is the enzyme used to break down dietary fats Papian Helps improve skin and breakdown protein Pepsin Is the principle enzyme which helps aid gastric juices Ptyaln Helps in aiding digestion in the stomach for several hours Protein 3 G From vegetable sources is essential in building, repairing and maintaining body tissue Trace Minerals Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Sulfur Important mineral in several amino acids within the body involved in functions of Hemoglobin, Insulin, Hormone, Adrenal Hormones, Enzymes, and Antibodies. Deficiency: Degeneration of cartilage, ligaments and tendons, Lupus, Sickle cell anemia, Several collagen diseases Ten Animal studies show deficiencies cause: Poor growth and Poor feeding, Hearing loss, Male pattern baldness, Cancer prevention properties Chromium Deficiency: Low blood sugar (Vanadium& copper also) Prediabetes (Vanadium also), Diabetes (Vanadium also) Hyperactivity, Learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD Hyperirritability, Depression, Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde rages Impaired growth, Peripheral neuropathy, Negative nitrogen balance (body lean mass/protein loss), Elevated blood triglycerides, Elevated blood cholesterol plaque, Infertility & decreased sperm count, Shortened life span Copper Deficiency: White or Gray hair, Dry brittle hair, Ptosis (sagging tissue-eye lids, skin, breast, stomach, etc.)Hernias, Varicose veins, Aneurysm (artery wall bulges) Kawasaki Disease, Anemia (common in vegans & high milk users), Hypo or Hyper thyroid, Arthritis (especially where growth plate are involved), Ruptured vertebral discs problems, Liver cirrhosis (Number 9 killer in US) Violent behavior, blind rage, explosive outbursts, Learning disabilities, Cerebral palsy & hypopasia (failure to form) of the cerebellum, High blood cholesterol, Reduced glucose tolerance (low blood sugar) Praseodymium Enhances normal cell growth. Doubles life span in laboratory animals Antimony Effective against blood flukes Strontium Strontium can replace calcium in many organisms including man, Essential trace element Thulium Enhances growth of normal cells Doubles the life span of laboratory animals Trace Minerals Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Gold Reduces active joint inflammation Molybdenium Essential as a metalloenzyme of several enzyme systems Iodine Needed by body for thyroid function (Thyroxin is thyroid Hormone), Copper needed to utilize iodine Deficiency: Under Active Thyroid, Fatigue, Cold intolerance Muscle Aches and pains, Heavy periods or less than 28 days cycles, Low sex drive, Brittle nails, Weight gains, Hair loss Muscle cramps, Depression, Constipation, Elevated blood cholesterol, Puffy face, Dry skin & hair, Inability to concentrate, Poor memory, Goiter (throat swelling) Over Active Thyroid, Insomnia, Heat Intolerance, Excessive sweating, Light periods or longer than 28 day cycles, Hand tremors, Rapid pulse, Bulging eyes, Weight loss, Increased appetite, Muscle weakness, Frequent bowel movements, Irritability, Nervousness Goiter (throat swelling) Lithium Deficiency: Depression, Manic depression, Lithium deficiency aggravated by high sugar consumption Reproductive failure, Infertility, Reduced growth rated Shortened life span, ADD, Rages & fits Manganese Deficiency: Congenital ataxia, Congenital deafness, Asthma, Chondromalacia, Chondrodystrophy, Poor cartilage formation problems, Repetitive Motion Syndromes (like TMJ, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome), Convulsions Infertility (failure to ovulate or testicle atrophy), Still births or spontaneous miscarriages, Loss of sex drive, Retarded growth rates, Shortened long bones Nickel Deficiency: Poor growth, Anemia (low hematocrit) Depressed oxidative ability of the liver, High newborn mortality, Rough/dry hair coat in animals, Dermatitis Delayed puberty, Poor zinc absorption Silver Kills over 650 disease causing organisms, Systemic disinfection & immune support, Subdues inflammation & promotes healing, Anti-bacterial, Anti-viral, Anti-fungal Boron Essential for bone metabolism, Aids efficient calcium & magnesium use, Proper endocrine function Reduces calcium loss from bones (Osteoporosis) Bismuth Ulcers result from lack of bismuth & a bacteria Heliobacter pylori Calcium High protein diets increase demands for calcium Deficiency: Osteoporosis (& Dowagers Hump fractures,) Receding gums (osteoporosis if facial bones & jaw bones) Osteomalacia (failure to mineralize the protein bone) Arthritis, Hypertension/High Blood Pressure, Insomnia, Kidney stones, Bone spurs, Calcium deposits, Cramps & twitches, PMS, Some low back pains (sciatica, muscle spasms), Bell?s Palsy, Osteofibrosis (enlargement of bones with scar tissue), Tetany, Panic attacks Cobalt Essential part of Vitamin B12 (Growth & nerve system) Emaciation, listless, starved look, pale mucus membranes, Anorexia, Anemia Cesium Cancer aid cesium enters cancer cell and produces alkaline condition Europium Doubles the life span of laboratory animals Fluoride In plant based colloidal form will aid bone strength & no toxicity Iron Deficiency: Hemoglobin (Oxygen carrier in red blood cells) Pica (mineral lack and eats dire and chews ice), Listlessness & fatigue, Heart palpitations, Memory deficits, Sore tongue, Anemia Gallium Reduces brain cancers Silica Increases collagen in growing bone by 100%, Deficiency: Dry brittle hair, Brittle fingernails, Poor skin quality, Poor calcium utilization & arterial wall strength problems Samarium Enhances normal cell proliferation, Doubles the life span of laboratory animals Selenium Effective anti-oxidant, Deficiency: Anemia (red blood cell fragility), Age spots or liver spots, Fatigue, HIV (AIDS), Myalgia, Scoliosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis, Cardiomyopathy, Multiple Sclerosis, Heart palpitation, Irregular heart beat, Liver cirrhosis, Pancreatitis, AS (Lou Gehrig?t Disease), Parkinson?s Disease (associated lead poisoning), Alzheimer?s Disease (associated high vegetable oil consumption), Infertility, Low birth weight, High infant mortality, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), Cancer (associated with high vegetable oil intake) (Number 2 killer), Sickle cell anemia Germanium Highly efficient electrical impulse initiator, Aid in oxygen utilization, Enhances immune systems function, (Killer cells, interfering, macrophage and T-suppressor cells), Deficiency: Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Low energy, Cancer Yttrium Enhances normal cell growth, Doubles life span of laboratory animals Potassium Deficiency: Muscular weakness, Mental apathy Lanthanum Deficiency: Maybe involved in chronic fatigue diseases Magnesium Deficiency: Asthma, Anorexia, Menstrual migraines, Growth failures, Neuromuscular problems, Tetany-Convulsions, Depression, Muscular weakness, Tremors, Vertigo, Calcification of small arteries, Malignant calcification of soft tissue Vanadium Aids in glucose (blood sugar) oxidation and transport, Enhances insulin effectiveness (aids with blood sugar problems), Decreases cholesterol production, Increases effectiveness of heart muscle contraction, Anti-Cancer properties Deficiency: Slow growth, Increased infant mortality, Infertility, Elevated cholesterol & triglycerides, Hypoglycemia & Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, Obesity Amino Acids Function & Symptoms of Deficiency - Proprietary Formula Alanine Important source of energy for muscle tissue, helps in the metabolization of sugars Arginine Improves immune responses to bacteria, crucial for optimal muscle growth Cystine Powerful antioxidant, aids recovery from burns and surgical operations Glysine Helps trigger release of oxygen to energy Leucine Used for production of energy to the upper brain Methionine Prevents disorders of hair, skin, and nails Phenylalanine Improves memory, reduces hunger pains Proline Helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles Serine Strengthens immune systems, synthesizes fatty acid Tyrosine Improves memory, helps overcome depression Valine Promotes mental vigor and muscle coordination Sea Nutrients Proprietary Formula Alaria Valida Rich in Vitamin A, vitamin B and calcium Costaria Costata Helps reduce blood cholesterol levels. Helps improve thyroid function. Agar Used for constipation Algin Ability to draw harmful pollutants like lead from the body Dulse Rich in protein, fluoride and iron Kelp Helps thyroid conditions Kombu High in Trace Minerals Kuzu Helps soothe the stomach and strengthen the intestines Nori Good for prostate and thyroid, high in protein __________________

mother natures nature's miracle is a liquid vitamin that i have used for years. i really love using it before surgeries because it makes me heal faster. it is really great it has everything and then some in it, even protein. it is a small company and their site is not fancy but the product is really great. Mother Nature's Miracle™ | Liquid Vitamins | Eden's Miracle of Mother Nature | natural vitamin program Vitamins Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Vitamin A; Beta Carotene 14,000 IU Cancer Prevention, Prevents Eye Problems, used for Acne, Ulcers, & Tissue maintenance repair. Enhances Immunity. Protects against Pollution. Vitamin B6 (As Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 4 mg Maintains health nerves, Skin Eyes, Hair, Liver, Mouth, Muscle Tone, & G.I. Tract. Coenzyme, Energy Production, used for Depression, Anxiety, Metabolisrn / Stress & Prevents Anemia Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) 1000 mcg Skin, Eyesight, Fatigue, Abnormal Sleep Patterns Vitamin C 1200 mg Helps Wounds, Surgery, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Immune System, Heart Disease, Cancer Prevention, Bleeding Gums, Protects against Pollution. Vitamin D 1 800 IU Osteoporosis, High blood pressure, increases the absorption of minerals. Vitamin E 1 180 IU Antioxidant, Cancer prevention, Tissue repair, improves circulation, Prevents Age Spots, & PMS Vitamin K 170 mcg Blood Clotting, Tissue repair, Bone formation, may prevent Osteoporosis. Sulfur** Degeneration of cartilage, ligaments & tendons Lupus, Sickle Anemia, & Collagen Diseases Copper 2mg White/Grey or Brittle hair, Hernias, Varicose Veins, Aneurysms, Anemia, Hypo or Hyper Thyroidism, Arthritis, Liver Cirrhosis, Violent Behavior, & Learning Disabilities. Coral Calcium 1100 mg Osteoporosis, Receding Gums, Arthritis, High Blood Pressure, Insomnia Kidney Stones, Bone Spurs, Calcium Deposits, Cramps, Twitches, & Bells Palsy Iodine 320 mcg Fatigue, Colds, Muscle Pains, Heavy Periods, Low Sex Drive, Brittle Nails, Weight Gains, Hair Loss, Muscle Cramps, Depression, Puffy Face, Dry Skin & Hair, Poor Memory. Magnesium 260 mg Asthma, Anorexia, Migraines, Growth Failures, Muscle Weakness, Tremors, Vertigo & Small Arteries Iron 10mg Hemoglobin, Pica, Fatigue, Heart Palpitations, Memory Deficits & Anemia Phosphorous 500 mcg Brittle Bone, Low Energy, Inability to break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates Potassium 300 mg Muscular Weakness, Mental Apathy, FACT: May lower Blood Pressure Zinc 30 mg Impaired ability to heal, hair loss, fatigue and acne Chromium 200 mcg Depressed Growth Rate, Glucose Intolerance in Diabetics CoQ10 3mg Anti Oxidant, Cancer, Heart Disease, Poor Immune System Herbs Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Gingko Biloba 100 mg Improves Memory, Brain Function, Blood Flow, Depression, Oxygenation, Asthma, Alzheimer's Disease, Heart & Kidney Disorders. Aloe Vera 6000 mg Restores Tissue, Anesthetic, Heals Burns, Itching, Regenerates with no Sear. Ginseng 500 mg Used for Impotence, Energy, Diabetes, Colds & Chest Problems. i Enhances Immune Functions & normalizes B.P. Enzymes Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Proprietary Formula Amylase Is the digestive enzyme used to digest carbohydrates Lipase Is the enzyme used to break down dietary fats Papian Helps improve skin and breakdown protein Pepsin Is the principle enzyme which helps aid gastric juices Ptyaln Helps in aiding digestion in the stomach for several hours Protein 3 G From vegetable sources is essential in building, repairing and maintaining body tissue Trace Minerals Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Sulfur Important mineral in several amino acids within the body involved in functions of Hemoglobin, Insulin, Hormone, Adrenal Hormones, Enzymes, and Antibodies. Deficiency: Degeneration of cartilage, ligaments and tendons, Lupus, Sickle cell anemia, Several collagen diseases Ten Animal studies show deficiencies cause: Poor growth and Poor feeding, Hearing loss, Male pattern baldness, Cancer prevention properties Chromium Deficiency: Low blood sugar (Vanadium& copper also) Prediabetes (Vanadium also), Diabetes (Vanadium also) Hyperactivity, Learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD Hyperirritability, Depression, Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde rages Impaired growth, Peripheral neuropathy, Negative nitrogen balance (body lean mass/protein loss), Elevated blood triglycerides, Elevated blood cholesterol plaque, Infertility & decreased sperm count, Shortened life span Copper Deficiency: White or Gray hair, Dry brittle hair, Ptosis (sagging tissue-eye lids, skin, breast, stomach, etc.)Hernias, Varicose veins, Aneurysm (artery wall bulges) Kawasaki Disease, Anemia (common in vegans & high milk users), Hypo or Hyper thyroid, Arthritis (especially where growth plate are involved), Ruptured vertebral discs problems, Liver cirrhosis (Number 9 killer in US) Violent behavior, blind rage, explosive outbursts, Learning disabilities, Cerebral palsy & hypopasia (failure to form) of the cerebellum, High blood cholesterol, Reduced glucose tolerance (low blood sugar) Praseodymium Enhances normal cell growth. Doubles life span in laboratory animals Antimony Effective against blood flukes Strontium Strontium can replace calcium in many organisms including man, Essential trace element Thulium Enhances growth of normal cells Doubles the life span of laboratory animals Trace Minerals Function & Symptoms of Deficiency Gold Reduces active joint inflammation Molybdenium Essential as a metalloenzyme of several enzyme systems Iodine Needed by body for thyroid function (Thyroxin is thyroid Hormone), Copper needed to utilize iodine Deficiency: Under Active Thyroid, Fatigue, Cold intolerance Muscle Aches and pains, Heavy periods or less than 28 days cycles, Low sex drive, Brittle nails, Weight gains, Hair loss Muscle cramps, Depression, Constipation, Elevated blood cholesterol, Puffy face, Dry skin & hair, Inability to concentrate, Poor memory, Goiter (throat swelling) Over Active Thyroid, Insomnia, Heat Intolerance, Excessive sweating, Light periods or longer than 28 day cycles, Hand tremors, Rapid pulse, Bulging eyes, Weight loss, Increased appetite, Muscle weakness, Frequent bowel movements, Irritability, Nervousness Goiter (throat swelling) Lithium Deficiency: Depression, Manic depression, Lithium deficiency aggravated by high sugar consumption Reproductive failure, Infertility, Reduced growth rated Shortened life span, ADD, Rages & fits Manganese Deficiency: Congenital ataxia, Congenital deafness, Asthma, Chondromalacia, Chondrodystrophy, Poor cartilage formation problems, Repetitive Motion Syndromes (like TMJ, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome), Convulsions Infertility (failure to ovulate or testicle atrophy), Still births or spontaneous miscarriages, Loss of sex drive, Retarded growth rates, Shortened long bones Nickel Deficiency: Poor growth, Anemia (low hematocrit) Depressed oxidative ability of the liver, High newborn mortality, Rough/dry hair coat in animals, Dermatitis Delayed puberty, Poor zinc absorption Silver Kills over 650 disease causing organisms, Systemic disinfection & immune support, Subdues inflammation & promotes healing, Anti-bacterial, Anti-viral, Anti-fungal Boron Essential for bone metabolism, Aids efficient calcium & magnesium use, Proper endocrine function Reduces calcium loss from bones (Osteoporosis) Bismuth Ulcers result from lack of bismuth & a bacteria Heliobacter pylori Calcium High protein diets increase demands for calcium Deficiency: Osteoporosis (& Dowagers Hump fractures,) Receding gums (osteoporosis if facial bones & jaw bones) Osteomalacia (failure to mineralize the protein bone) Arthritis, Hypertension/High Blood Pressure, Insomnia, Kidney stones, Bone spurs, Calcium deposits, Cramps & twitches, PMS, Some low back pains (sciatica, muscle spasms), Bell?s Palsy, Osteofibrosis (enlargement of bones with scar tissue), Tetany, Panic attacks Cobalt Essential part of Vitamin B12 (Growth & nerve system) Emaciation, listless, starved look, pale mucus membranes, Anorexia, Anemia Cesium Cancer aid cesium enters cancer cell and produces alkaline condition Europium Doubles the life span of laboratory animals Fluoride In plant based colloidal form will aid bone strength & no toxicity Iron Deficiency: Hemoglobin (Oxygen carrier in red blood cells) Pica (mineral lack and eats dire and chews ice), Listlessness & fatigue, Heart palpitations, Memory deficits, Sore tongue, Anemia Gallium Reduces brain cancers Silica Increases collagen in growing bone by 100%, Deficiency: Dry brittle hair, Brittle fingernails, Poor skin quality, Poor calcium utilization & arterial wall strength problems Samarium Enhances normal cell proliferation, Doubles the life span of laboratory animals Selenium Effective anti-oxidant, Deficiency: Anemia (red blood cell fragility), Age spots or liver spots, Fatigue, HIV (AIDS), Myalgia, Scoliosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis, Cardiomyopathy, Multiple Sclerosis, Heart palpitation, Irregular heart beat, Liver cirrhosis, Pancreatitis, AS (Lou Gehrig?t Disease), Parkinson?s Disease (associated lead poisoning), Alzheimer?s Disease (associated high vegetable oil consumption), Infertility, Low birth weight, High infant mortality, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), Cancer (associated with high vegetable oil intake) (Number 2 killer), Sickle cell anemia Germanium Highly efficient electrical impulse initiator, Aid in oxygen utilization, Enhances immune systems function, (Killer cells, interfering, macrophage and T-suppressor cells), Deficiency: Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Low energy, Cancer Yttrium Enhances normal cell growth, Doubles life span of laboratory animals Potassium Deficiency: Muscular weakness, Mental apathy Lanthanum Deficiency: Maybe involved in chronic fatigue diseases Magnesium Deficiency: Asthma, Anorexia, Menstrual migraines, Growth failures, Neuromuscular problems, Tetany-Convulsions, Depression, Muscular weakness, Tremors, Vertigo, Calcification of small arteries, Malignant calcification of soft tissue Vanadium Aids in glucose (blood sugar) oxidation and transport, Enhances insulin effectiveness (aids with blood sugar problems), Decreases cholesterol production, Increases effectiveness of heart muscle contraction, Anti-Cancer properties Deficiency: Slow growth, Increased infant mortality, Infertility, Elevated cholesterol & triglycerides, Hypoglycemia & Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, Obesity Amino Acids Function & Symptoms of Deficiency - Proprietary Formula Alanine Important source of energy for muscle tissue, helps in the metabolization of sugars Arginine Improves immune responses to bacteria, crucial for optimal muscle growth Cystine Powerful antioxidant, aids recovery from burns and surgical operations Glysine Helps trigger release of oxygen to energy Leucine Used for production of energy to the upper brain Methionine Prevents disorders of hair, skin, and nails Phenylalanine Improves memory, reduces hunger pains Proline Helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles Serine Strengthens immune systems, synthesizes fatty acid Tyrosine Improves memory, helps overcome depression Valine Promotes mental vigor and muscle coordination Sea Nutrients Proprietary Formula Alaria Valida Rich in Vitamin A, vitamin B and calcium Costaria Costata Helps reduce blood cholesterol levels. Helps improve thyroid function. Agar Used for constipation Algin Ability to draw harmful pollutants like lead from the body Dulse Rich in protein, fluoride and iron Kelp Helps thyroid conditions Kombu High in Trace Minerals Kuzu Helps soothe the stomach and strengthen the intestines Nori Good for prostate and thyroid, high in protein

I got married the first time one month before turning 19. By twenty, I was fat. My first husband completely changed after we got married. He immediately started not coming home at night until 11:00 and was either fishing or golfing both days on the weekend. It got worse once we had kids. So, I made myself feel better by eating, eating and eating some more. I should have just kicked his butt out the door and saved myself all the weight gain. But, I can't say I have any regrets, because I did get two great kids out of the marriage.

I dont know if it is just the Women in our age group... (mid to late 20's ) but, I have read ALOT of similar stories..... including mine. Got married in early 20's.... weight was fine, then KABLAM! Grown Up DUTIES! Depresion kicks in, anxiety, sadness, over-eating, and weight gain, sadness. Having kids just adds to all of it! Life is just a HUGE battle. I dont know if it is that we expected married life to be different or we are just exagerating, but it is soooooo hard to deal with daily issues especialy with all this extra weight. I am not the best person to give advice, but I sure can listen (or read) lol I am very proud of Women Our age to take control of our lives NOW. :thumbup:Good for you! This will really be a NEW BEGINING for our Generation.... watch you will see! I wish you the best on your journey and Thanx for sharing your story! (its relieving to hear I am not alone)

Hi all, I was banded on June 3, 2009 and have been doing really well up until this weekend. Today mostly. Let me explain. I've lost almost 30 pounds since the 2 week pre-op liquid diet. I'm very pleased with the loss but I'm do for my first fill this coming friday 7/10 and I guess I'm afraid he won't give me a fill. I had mentioned to the dr just this past week that I have limitations when I eat. He mentioned that I must have restriction with the band in place even though I have no fluid in it. He also said we'll have to go slow with the fills. Now, I've been so good with my diet and exercising more than I would like and I think that's why the weight is coming off. Yes, I fill fast, but I do get hungry between meals. So, with this in mind, I set out to test the full limits of my band. I found out that what people say about chips, ice cream and sweet is true. They are definately slider foods. I also went and had a little mac salad and potato salad. I had veggie burger and turkey sausage for my meats. I ate no where need the amount of food I use too, but even when I did get full, I went a litle further. I experienced for the first time what I see people call PBing. Not much though, but I did. Here's what I don't understand........why do I do this? Is it normal? Before the band, I never felt full and would eat until I would almost vomit. NO CONTROLL. What is wrong with me? Can anyone relate to this absurd behavior? I'm so mad at myself. Here comes a five pound weight gain!!!

Dottie, I am retired and staying at home. I retired early almost 5 years ago (Aug 2004), hubby retired about 2 years later, but he had a hard time adjusting and wanted to add some income. He went to work full time at BassPro when they opened a store here about 18 months ago. After a work life of sales and primarily sales management, the retail environment has been a tough adjustment for him. He is firearms specialist for the store - and they could not have a better one. I tell him the job description was written for him! He loves most of the job, but really does not like some of it. Like any job, I guess. At any rate, I am home with my dog most days so Jack and I have frequent conversations. I am an art quilter and enjoy having the time to work in the studio. Oddly though, I find many distractions, family obligations, multiple quilt & knitting group obligations, friendships, etc. None of these are bad things in any way, but take me out of the studio. I have decided it's best to just go with the flow and enjoy everything I can... The hardest thing about retirement for me has been STRUCTURE! No commute, no office, everything is up to me. After a lot of years with structure being decided by others it has been a constant struggle to structure my own time! It's so good to hear your thoughts about maintenance. I have read in a couple of books that our bodies seem to find the right weight as we approach that "normal" status, and we tend to maintain that weight naturally as long as we continue active lives and the exercise we have established. Our food intake does not necessarily change a whole lot, according to those authors. Some of the participants in this thread have had a somewhat different experience. I sure understand that we must always be aware and ready to deal with any weight gain, no matter how small. A soldier on guard!! Please feel free to p.m. me...

I have taken antiderpressants for years. Every time I try to get off of them, it gets so bad I cant even stand myself. In just function better with them. Even my family will say "mom are you still taking your meds?" The problem with most of them is they have two side effects, weight gain or wieght loss. Hello, which one is it? The problem is they dont know for sure. I take prozac which is supposed to cause potential weight loss, which did NOT happen for me but I didnt gain either. Unfortulately you dont know till you try them how they will work with you. Good luck. Talk to your doc. If you dont feel comfortable doing that, find you another one. God Bless.

Okay, so my name is Kamie and I am in Tucson, AZ. I live with my boyfriend of four years and my younger sister. I have been overweight for about as long as I can remember, but I gained about 80% of my unwanted weight during the last 4 years of college. I am now at 265lbs which is actually about 20lbs less than what I thought from awhile ago. Since I am only 5'2'' this puts me at a very high BMI number of 46.8! That is really scary to me and has led me to the option of Lap Band Surgery. I have tried and tried at everything I can think of. I have done weight watchers, weight watchers online, personal training, nutritionist, the 4-day diet, LA weightloss. I usually lose substantial weight and then I miss a meeting or a payment or I overeat...you know how it goes. The things that have brought me to this crucial moment are recent changes based on my weight gain. I can't shop at regular stores anymore...I hate shopping online and don't find clothes that fit my style at the "plus size" stores. I wear out my bras and underwear more quickly than ever. I am having trouble being active at all anymore. I am usually tired. I feel left out of society. My dad just recently had a heart scare at the age of 51. Needless today I am ready for a change. I want to be healthy and find a better way of life. More than anything in the world I want to stop my osession and constant thought of food. I know that the Lap Band is only a tool here and I hope to find others along the way. Well, I have my consultation with the surgeon on Monday, so 4 more days. I will keep you posted!

Okay, so my name is Kamie and I am in Tucson, AZ. I live with my boyfriend of four years and my younger sister. I have been overweight for about as long as I can remember, but I gained about 80% of my unwanted weight during the last 4 years of college. I am now at 265lbs which is actually about 20lbs less than what I thought from awhile ago. Since I am only 5'2'' this puts me at a very high BMI number of 46.8! That is really scary to me and has led me to the option of Lap Band Surgery. I have tried and tried at everything I can think of. I have done weight watchers, weight watchers online, personal training, nutritionist, the 4-day diet, LA weightloss. I usually lose substantial weight and then I miss a meeting or a payment or I overeat...you know how it goes. The things that have brought me to this crucial moment are recent changes based on my weight gain. I can't shop at regular stores anymore...I hate shopping online and don't find clothes that fit my style at the "plus size" stores. I wear out my bras and underwear more quickly than ever. I am having trouble being active at all anymore. I am usually tired. I feel left out of society. My dad just recently had a heart scare at the age of 51. Needless today I am ready for a change. I want to be healthy and find a better way of life. More than anything in the world I want to stop my osession and constant thought of food. I know that the Lap Band is only a tool here and I hope to find others along the way. Well, I have my consultation with the surgeon on Monday, so 4 more days. I will keep you posted!

So I am 2.5 weeks out. I just moved onto the "soft food" stage from lliquids. I dont get my first fill for another 4 weeks. I am reallu worried about gaining weight during this time due to my hunger cravings being back. I know this is supposed to get better after my first fill, but what until then? IM working out 5 days a week. Did you guys experience weight gain during this stage before your first fill?

I also feel exactly the same way that the person the posted the original message feels. I'm finding ways to eat more than I should. I also eat until it gets stuck and then once that feeling passes, I eat again. I know that I'm sabotaging myself, yet I don't know why I do. That is where my problem lies. I was seeing a counselor because I am addicted to food. Plus, I am an emotional eater. After a few months of seeing my counselor she told me that she thought I was strong enough to do it on my own. I don't think I am. I will probably call her to go and see her again. I appreciate all of the posts that everyone added. It has made me realize that me and only me can change my weight, and the lap-band alone isn't going to do it. I know deep down that I've always known that. I just don't understand why I choose to ignore it. You all have opened up my eyes to what I need to do. I've been sitting here reading all of the post and crying because everything you have said is 100% true. I guess I'm just really sad at myself because I've done this to myself. No one else is to blame for my weight gain and lack of weight loss. Just me! That's why I'm sad. Another reason I'm having a hard time with my band is because I have to pay for all of my fills out of pocket, and I just can't afford to do that right now. I've only had one fill since my surgery (oct. 30, 2008). My husband and I are struggling with money and so it's very difficult to get filled. I know that I need to do more on my own to help lose the weight, but having a fill would definitely help. Thanks again for all of the wonderful posts and I'm glad that I read all of them. It was like you all were talking to me, not just to the other person. Thanks again. I hope I can do better from here on out. Wish me luck! :redface:

morning gals sorry was distracted and my computer was freaking out from all my facebook stuff. Haydee, i got kicked off facebook from everything i got trying to load all at one time. i'm drinking coffee and getting ready for my dr appt, primary, who i hope will give me something to mellow me out without the weight gain, and adjust my water pill, which does not seem to be working anymore then home to tile the bathroom seat, so tomorrow i can tile the wall around it. I have a week to get it all done

We were both banded about the same time (I was the 28th of May) and I understand how you feel. I think what you are going through is a major adjustment to a different life, but it can be an awesome life! This is part of bandster hell, the period between surgery where you are healing before your first fill, where it is impossible to follow all the rules. Dont let it get you down, this will get better and once you have your first fill you should start seeing more results. As for weight gain we are all going up and down as we heal, some days water weight some days a bit too many calories, but it is a learning experience and once you get it figured out you will be stronger. Hang in there you are doing great.

I was so excited to have lost 9lbs a week after surgery buuuut...that when mushies started and ruined it all for me. I weighed myself this morning and it looks like I have gained 4lbs...hoping this is only temporary and the scale takes a turn for the better with a quickness!

Are you feeling hungry and grit your teeth to loose? Or is it that you just don;t have any appetite? That is a good loss of weight. I do own a scale and am addicted to weighing every morning. I also weigh in with a buddy my age(non band dieter) every Sunday over the internet. She weighs once a week. I also weigh to see what foods cause me to retain water and have water weight gain. Even some low sodium foods cause that in the summer with me.

Wow! I am impressed. Most people post that they have a little weight gain from the IV fluids. You are doing great.:laugh0: Judy

Jacqui- Your so right but are all so different, like I said I only weigh on Mondays and it works for me. I think if I were see a 5lb weight gain I would just die LOL!! After I got to restriction level I topped out at 2lbs a week every week since Jan. so I felt I did good, now I do believe I have hit a PLATEOU!!!!!! Darn it!

I had lap band surgery in 2006. I weighed 367 pounds and went down to 156 pounds. I learned that I had a slippage and got the lap band removed. I was so happy to eat I didn't get a replacement...now I'm up to 230 pounds!! I watch what I eat and exercise almost everyday! The weight gain occurred in less than a year. I don't want to keep gaining! Has anyone experienced this? I really don't think it has to do with what I eat. :cool:

I had lap band surgery in 2006. I weighed 367 pounds and went down to 156 pounds. I learned that I had a slippage and got the lap band removed. I was so happy to eat I didn't get a replacement...now I'm up to 230 pounds!! I watch what I eat and exercise almost everyday! The weight gain occurred in less than a year. I don't want to keep gaining! Has anyone experienced this? I really don't think it has to do with what I eat. :thumbup:

I know you feel desperate. You want the weight to be gone--yesterday! I want that too. I don't know how many times I have wished that I could magically turn into the person/shape I wanted to be. But even though you're feeling desperate, I don't think you should fast. Your body's metabolism really will come to a halt--nature designed it that way to save you in the event of a famine. In my youth, I fasted for at least a week (I don't know if you know this, but it can be very dangerous to come off a long fast if you don't do it correctly). The only thing that fasting jump starts is your ravenous appetiite. On a fast, you may lose weight, but when you go back to eating you will eat like you'll never eat again--because that's what your body thinks--and to top it off you will have a slower metabolism trying to deal with all of those extra calories. Guess what happens then? Weight GAIN! :thumbdown: Trust the experience of those who have gone before you. Exercise even if you don't see results--exercise and muscle gain actually speed up your metabolism. Finally, let me suggest that you try therapy (or even OA--it's basically free--I went to Overeaters Anonymous for three years. I didn't lose weight, but I did learn a lot about how I used food for so many things other than nourishment). You'll want to learn and understand how it is that you use food. Every person has different ways/reasons that they use food (boredom, anxiety, control, protection, sadness, stress relief...). Do the work to find out what's unique to you and your relationship with food. Good luck to you.

My name is heather and I'm a scalaholic. lol. I've done the same thing and experienced the same thing with the weight gain after peeing. Or even seeing the scale stay the same! I weigh myself about 2 or 3 times a day. Usually 1st thing in the morning. If it's a weekend I'll wait an hour and weigh myself after the morning weigh in and then I usually weigh myself at night just to see how much i'm up from the day. So no it's not just you there are others out there just like you!

I swell when I get a fill. I have been fine the day of the fill and then swollen shut the next day. Not even Water could go down. The swelling was so bad they had to take out more fill than was put in. Then it took about 2 weeks for the swelling to go down and for me to start to get hungry again. Then it took two fills and some weight gain to get restriction again. The only time it hurt was that next day because I was BPing all day long. Then I was sore for a while. I will tell you one thing, it should not hurt. How many ounces of liquid can you get in? I have been told that it can keep swelling. My doc said that you do not want to be too tight because it can irritate and swell over time. Are you going to Tijuana for your fills?