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We were sleeved the same day. I haven't tried any alcohol yet, but I know my dietitian warned us that we will be cheap drunks from now on =) So if you do drink - just make sure you do it safely and maybe try a little at home so you know how it hits you first!

Week 21 Last week’s weight – 200.2 This week’s weight – 199.4 Total weight lost this week – .8 Beginning weight – 246 lbs Total weight loss since surgery – 46.6 lbs Average weekly weight loss since surgery – 2.1 lbs Woo Hooo!!!!!! I am officially under 200 lbs as of this week. Although I didn’t have a spectacular weight loss it was enough to drive me under the 200 mark. My next goal is to get some more distance from the number 200 (right now I’m a little too close for comfort…particularly since I go into PMS mode next week). I joined our Cross Fit gym this week and am currently going through their foundations class (4 classes total $100 not included in the month rate). I signed up for 3 months (after which it becomes a month-to-month charge). It is kind of expensive ($125/month) and I hesitated to join for a couple of reasons (expense and difficulty). The expense part I will have to live with (this was made slightly easier because I had a summer job that I applied that money toward) and I can scale back the difficulty and build up What I like about the gym is that you walk in and there is a warm up and a routine of the day (once that is done you are finished). I also like that there is always a certified staff on the floor who can help. My warm up yesterday was a 250 meter row, 10 situps, 10 walking lunges (done twice). I scaled back the walking lunges because my knees aren’t great and they are difficult for me. The workout was 21 deadlifts, 800 meter run, 21 deadlifts, 550 meter run, 21 deadlifts, 400 meter run. My workout was scaled back (with the help of the staff) to 15 deadlifts (with reduced weight) and a 400 meter run/walk, 10 deadlifts with a 250 meter run/walk, 5 deadlifts with a 100 meter run. The goal is to build up from that. My plan is to go to the M-W-F classes and see where I stand at the end of the three months. Another thing I like about the gym is I really don’t care what I look like or what anyone else looks like. Everyone is just coming in, doing the routine to the best of their ability and moving on. Since we are all “in it together” people are very encouraging (some are competitive but that works for them). The one thing I don’t want to do is become bulky (there is a lot of weight lifting). There are several women who go to the gym who are quite muscular and my goal is a bit different. I just want to become tone and fit but I think I can manage that by not going crazy with adding on insane amounts of weight. I was also hoping by joining the gym it might help boost my weight loss by shocking my system (we will see how that goes at the end of the three months!). Food wise I am doing fine. I’m packing my lunch since we are back to school. My lunch the other day was deli turkey and cheese roll ups and cut up green peppers and an Atkins chocolate/coconut bar for a snack. I’ve also had a Campbell soup at hand (cream of chicken or tomato), Atkins chocolate/peanut butter meal replacement bar, travel size peanut butter cup (for snack). I still need to be better drinking water throughout the day. Yesterday I went to Outback and I ordered their new $15 meal deal which actually was quite a lot of food. I saved half of my steak and potatoes for lunch today. I need to stop ordering alcohol with my meals (habit). I wasn’t able to finish my $4 margarita and I really didn’t need it. As I mentioned last week I am getting a lot of compliments on my weight loss after coming back from the summer break. My favorite was from a former 4th grader I taught (I know her mom) and she said, “Oh my gosh Mrs. Heaton I didn’t even recognize you. You look so skinny.)

I was told no alcohol for six weeks due to risks (something to do with bleeding or alcohol thinning the blood and impacting on the healing stitches internally) and then in moderation due to the empty calories.

I have had occasional drinks since about six weeks out. I have even used a small amount of diet cola for a mixer with no issues as the fizz is gone pretty fast. No issues except a little burping - but nothing as glorious as I did before surgery anyway. Contrary to what I've heard, alcohol doesn't affect me any differently than it did pre-surgery. And it really goes good with my cigars. Yes ...I said it. Life is good.

Alcohol is an absolute no-no, according to my program. I'd play it safe, and check with your surgeon. Happy birthday!

HEy everyone!so I was sleeved a month and a couple days ago...Doig great!my birthday was yesterday,just turned 21.tmrw me and my family are going celebrating and I wanted a little sangria.not so sure if its a bad idea,what do you guys think?how long was it before you had some alcohol?not trying to get crazy...just wanted to celebrate my birthday!

My pre op diet is low fat similar to weight watchers, no liquid only but I think I will do final day liquids just to be safe. It's quite relaxed more no alcohol no over eating.

Your tolerance for alcohol really changes. I used to dring Tangueray 10. It's a really good gin. Since surgery I haven't had any. I have switched to red wine. I googled red wine and it says that most red wines don't have much sugar in it due to the processing of it. Two glasses is my limit.

Wow, I guess it really is different for everyone. I did learn more about alcoholism in gastric bypass patients, sorta like the catch the dragon.

I have heard from many people that there is a high rate of alcoholism post surgery. Is it easier to become addicted to alcohol after surgery? Would it have to do with the way it is metabolizes? It's kind of scary.

I saw a news program that did a brain scan on people and how sugar effected some people and how it showed up in others... There are those of us out there that when we get a dose of sugar it acts like drugs to a heroin addict! People who don't have an addiction can never understand sweetie. Just like you can sympathize with a person who is addicted to alcohol, but you don't know their struggle unless you've been there. You do what is right for YOU!!! I am a firm believer in "Know your limitations!"

I think it's like a jello shot with cottage cheese instead of alcohol???

Obviously the effects of stress are detrimental to even the healthiest of people, but I am dealing with insurmountable stress lately and the effect it is having on my health (especially) since the surgery. I have found that my appetite is either gone or my brain tortures me with visions of choclate dipped bacon covered cake! I have also noticed that in times of stress I can physically feel my pouch hurt, I am worried I am developing an ulcer...the point of this rant is to ask of anyone knows the risks associated with stress in regards to being so fresh from surgery or even stress relief tips? In the past I have dealt with self injury, drug/alcohol abuse, and of course the go to EATING. Clearl I have overcome all of these negative coping mechanisms. It bubble baths, candles and music just isn't cutting to to tonight...I Ben tried some comfort food (rice pudding) help!? Sent from my iPod touch using RNYTalk

I need to attend a work-related cocktail party tomorrow night. I'm not concerned about the booze part---drinking alcohol just doesn't fit in with my diet plan, so I will stick with my Water..but I wanted to bring something that I could eat (who knows what other stuff other people will bring), and I'm on the soft food stage. So, I pureed a can of cannellini Beans with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh thyme, garlic, and ground walnuts. Everyone else can spread it on crackers, but I will eat a few tablespoons, as is...Yum...put it in the fridge so the flavors can meld, then I will bring it to the party at room temperature tomorrow.

The band is only a tool. It's still up to you to use it right. Remember the basics. Hi Protein, eat slowly... stop eating when full... and then don't go back. Don't drink while eating. Keep the fried food down. Not only are they high calories, but they can slip through the band easier, allowing you to eat more. No sodas. Ice Cream is a no-no... The band might like it, but the calories don't. Same with alcohol... Drinking won't hurt the band, but it's high calorie. Like I said... Go back to the basics,and hang in there.

I understand your struggle because I too struggle with losing weight. Check this: I'm post 1 year out of lapband surgery and I have lost 35 pounds--but I've hit a snag. I blame myself for this, but I did not stay continuous with my eating and exercising. I started back doing the exercising and eating right, keeping the food journals, etc. Now I'm back on track. Now, I'm not going to lie, I may have a few naughty things at the end of the week. But, as long as I stay motivated by exercising and doing the things I need to do and don't go overboard, I will continue to see results. I am a binge eater. That's why I have the band. Someone mention earlier about the psychology of why we overeat and getting to the bottom of the deeper issue. My issue has always been insecurity and shyness. I hope I'm not being long winded but the bottom line is I have issues. Some of us have issues. It's probably the same issues that follow people who do drugs and alcohol. I was a chain smoker and a binge drinker. Hell, quitting (praying) those two things is a something else. And you have to applaud yourself for that. Take in all the victories. I'm in college and I'm taking a class in Addiction. I should have earlier, but, better now than later. Off the dais!

Seems like the jello shots would be the best way to drink alcohol. I'll try to have some on hand next party we have...

My surgeon said no alcohol of any type for a full year post op...but that's difficult to follow when there are so many family celebrations. The major concerns are the empty calories you have in the wine or other alcohol...and definitely less tolerance for the amount of alcohol you consume. Last month I attended a party and had 2 Jello shots over a 2 hour span of time. I'm glad I did not need to drive...before the band this would not have affected me...post band, I was not safe to drive. Definitely avoid any carbonation...your band does not like carbonation...

Hey guys, can anyone tell me about alcohol and wine with lapband ? before getting banded I would only drink on special occasions just a glass or 2.i have not drank since i got banded,will it be diffrent after being banded? can any one tell me ? i am going on vacation sept,7th to hawaii for our 1st wedding anniversary and would like to have a drink or 2 .and info would be appreciated! thanks tonyann

My name is Morgan and I am 22 years old. I have been overweight all my life. I grew up where we would go to burger king about 4 nights a week and on the way to school we would get McDonalds for Breakfast. Once I hit 200 pounds at a very young age I kept telling myself I wouldn't gain anymore weight. Then I would get to 225 and tell myself I would never get to 250. Then I hit 250 and said I would never hit 300 pounds. The huge BUT (not pun intended lol) is I never did anything about the whole losing weight thing. I kept eating the way I did. I was so self conscious and had zero self esteem. I ended up turning to drugs, alcohol, sex, and self harm. I have come a very long way in this journey already. I met the most amazing, caring, honest, trustworthy man and I quite the drugs and alcohol and self harm. We got engaged and set our wedding date and then found out we were expecting We kept our wedding date though because I knew if we pushed it off until after our son was born, then who knows how long it would be before we could actually plan the wedding and get married. We got married May 14th, 2011 while I was 8 months pregnant and it was incredible. I loved being pregnant while I got married. The feeling is indescribable because yes it was a commitment day for myself and my now husband but also to our unborn child. The pregnancy was a rough one and I was on bed rest from 14 weeks until about 30 weeks. Normally during pregnancy you gain weight but I ended up losing 40 pounds which was ok because I went into the pregnancy at 370. After my son was born on June 10th, 2011 I weighed about 330. Over the last year I have gained all that weight back and am now up to 374 I am sick of being overweight! I have tried diet plan after diet plan and I get so frustrated when I know I am doing good on the diet and exercising but I would only lose a little bit of weight. I want to raise my son with him knowing how to eat healthy. I want to be healthy for my son and husband and obviously myself so I can live longer and be able to enjoy doing activities with them instead of losing my breath after walking up a small flight of stairs. My aunt had gastric bypass done in 200 and has lost over 100 pounds and has kept it off. After seeing my aunts success, my mother decided to get the surgery done in 2003. She has lost over 150 pounds and has maintained a healthy weight since then. I have been wanting to get this surgery done for a long time now there were just things holding me back. 1. I didnt have the insurance or out of pocket money to get it done. 2. I was mentally not ready to get it done. Now I know it is the right time and I am ready to jump in and make the commitment. I am ready to change my life for the better by starting fresh. Eating healthy. Exercising. Taking up softball and hip hop dance. I am determined!!! I finally have insurance that is going to cover my surgery and I could honestly not be happier! I have my first pre-op appointment September 5th to meet with the surgery center, psychologist and dietitian. I cannot explain how motivated I am and 110% ready! I will be starting weight watchers on September 1st so I can get in to the routine of things before surgery. I have an amazing support system that will help me through my life long journey. I also have been diagnosed with PCOS so it has been very hard to conceive. Our son was a miracle baby, due to having PCOS and not having a period or ovulating for more than a year. Having this surgery will hopefully improve my PCOS and eventually after my surgery and weight loss we will be able to try for baby number two. I also know that this surgery will improve my depression, self esteem, self confidence and make me enjoy and respect life life more. I am on here to look for advice, support, input, similar stories and make friends. I am looking forward to starting my new and healthy life Here is a recent family picture when we went to Yellowstone at my highest weight of 374. The second picture is of my mother at my sons 1st birthday in June. She used to weigh the same as me and got the gastric bypass done and is now in her target weight range, healthy and happier than ever. It is very inspiring!

I was having lunch with another individual, who is currently having succes with changing the way she eats and exercise, and she was enjoying a slice of cheesecake and she says "everything in moderation". Now, she is not aware that I'm in the process of getting WLS, but I did respond to her by saying " maybe for you but not me", which led to a heated debate. I have a serious pet peeve. I hate, yes, I said hate, when someone tries to tell me what I'm able to do or not do. You can make assumptions, but we all know what happens when you ASS U ME! I don't do MODERATION! If I was capable of moderation, I wouldn't be more than 100 lbs overweight. I've heard the comments, opinions over the years, even I have fallen for it, "You have to have" or " you need to have", " a little can't hurt". Food is my addiction...no,that's not right, chocolate, baked goods, fast foods, etc are my addiction and it's killing me... Why should I have these things in moderation? ..... Let me put it this way... Someone suffering from alcoholism, his/hers addiction of choice is wine, would you say to her/him " a little wine in moderation?".... I'm betting you will think that person was cruel, well that's what's it's like for me. I don't do a slice of cheesecake, I eat the WHOLE cheesecake. I don't eat scoop of ice cream, I eat the WHOLE container. I don't do the combo meal, I do the combo meal with starter, supersize and dessert. Now do you get it!..... Silence.... Just have some control, willpower, you need food to live!.... ** Sigh** ... Yes, I need food to live, but do I need that time of food? .....nope....So you are going to cut out all that food for the rest of your life....gasp....yeah, it's not going to be easy and I will have some idiot,I mean well meaning individual, who will try to encourage me to "try" something....but I will have to refuse, why? The day I get over my addiction, it will be a struggle to maintain because unlike cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, people feel that it can't hurt you in moderation, so it's offered and offered, and feelings get hurt when you refuse, but I'm just one of those people where moderation does not work. Side note, I smoked cigarettes for 10 years, 2 packs a day and was a solid chain smoker. When I was given the ultimatum by partner to quit or he goes, I couldn't do it alone. I failed cold turkey, I failed the nicotine patch... What worked is a pill called Champix( in French)... I took it for 2 weeks out of the 12 weeks and I never look back. I've been a non-smoker going into 5 years. Some people can do it on their own, I need help.Words have power, I'm currently changing the way I eat for my goal is to eliminate those foods from my diet. I'm aware of the journey ahead of me. I'm aware that the lap band will not eliminate my demons. I'm aware that I will be seeing someone about my addictions and I'm aware that most society will see my use of " food addiction" an "insult" to "real" addictions but I couldn't given a rats @$&?, because moderation will kill me.

I'm 26 months out and I have a drink every so often. I never had anything to 'drink' until after I reached goal. It is definitely wasted calories. I have noticed that it takes less to feel the effects of alcohol.

Your parents pay health insurance for your health, use it to become healthy!!!!!!!!!! I wish I had done this at 19 instead of weighting lol so long!!! I'm 25 now and 60 pounds heavier and have an even more f*d up relationship with food from the extra years binge eating. I get where your dads coming from but as a recovering alcoholic I bet deep down he wishes he had some sort of surgery to make his struggle easier! But in all honesty his journey is not yours and he sounds way too controlling and frankly a little unstable. Just a tip: think through exactly how he will react when he finds out and have some professional help to deal with the turbulence that will most likely arise... Go it girl, do it, get it done and start living your life!!!!!!!!

I'd be majorly confused too. I don't think anyone here is qualified to explain your symptoms or tell you if it's OK to drink alcohol (though with everything else going on, I'd say you should pass on the alchohol for now). Yours is an awful and unique situation and I hope your doctor can guide you through this as you heal and adjust.

Well that's the gist of it at least. Apparently a huge portion of my stomach had slipped through the band months and months ago. Started vomiting blood. Had an upper endoscopy done. Was told that I had the beginnings of an ulcer. Fast forward to 8 months later, and I'm in the hospital in severe pain and living off IV fluids when the doctors tell me that the portion of my stomach that slipped through had become necrotic tissue and was basically killing me (my white blood cell count was through the roof). Long story short, they removed 75% of my damaged stomach and I'm trying to cope with this new way of eating as well as intense hunger pains if I forget to eat. Anybody wanna hit me up and explain what the hell is going on with my body? Like why I don't feel the urge to eat (and many times forget to) and then I'm suddenly hit with the most intense hunger pains I've ever felt in my life accompanied with feelings of nausea? Like why I experience dumping when I eat ice cream, but not candy? Whether or not it's safe for me to have alcohol? Just majorly confused.