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Hi. I just had the surgery Tues 12/13, came home Thurs. My doc told me no pills- I am on liquid multivitamin (after the surgery- about 1 1/2 wks before surgery Dr told me to stop multivitamin), Prevacid two a day (either crushed or he told me to break the capsule and sprinkle it in yogurt), and gas-x strips, as needed, and chewable calcium. I am on a liquid diet, at least 48 oz of liquid and he said try to shoot for at least 65 g protein. I use the lean protein shakes from GNC which have 25 g protein with vitamins.(Love the vanilla, hated the strawberry and chocolate). Good luck!

Not all of us go through "bandster hell". After surgery I was on 2 weeks liquid, 2 weeks mushy, 2 weeks soft but it really wasn't that hard. With the liquid stage I was allowed as much as I wanted so if I was feeling hungry I just ate(drank) some more. I was allowed things like Soups, custard, yogurt, jelly etc. Yes it gets boring and it felt great to be able to go onto mushies but I can't say that I was ever starving. I had my first fill at 3 weeks - yes it was only a tiny 1 but every little bit helps.Again with the mushy stage I was allowed to eat enough to satisfy my hunger. The focus post surgery is about healing more than weight loss. Remember that and you will do fine. It does make a difference having the band. It may be mental, I'm not sure but I know that I have never been able to stick to a liquid diet previously. Knowing that I was getting a band and that each of the food stages including the preop(which is the worst) were finite made it far easier. You know that none of these stages are forever. You can see the end and you know that you have a tool that is going to help enormously.

Do you mean you ate all those things in one sitting? If so, IMO, that's way too much. I can't really speak from experience since I was on full liquids for four weeks. But when I did start on purees (things like cottage cheese and yogurt) I could not have more than 3 tablespoons of food total for a meal, and meals had to be at least 3 hours apart.

I eat mostly yogurt, protein drinks, lean meats, cheese, chili, raw veggies

Avo would be because of the fat. It is fine to eat so long as it is only a small portion and not the whole avo. I didn't eat a lot of fruit before being banded and eat even less now. I think it has something to do with the slippery texture, it makes it hard to chew and it is too easy to swallow a big bit. Melon and mango(which I love) definitelly slips past without being chewed. Kiwi fruits have all those pips in the centre which make me uncomfortable. Other stone fruits need to be peeled as there is nothing worse for me than having bits of skin stuck. These days if i do eat fruit it is usually tinned or cooked in some way. Strawberries lightly poached over greek yogurt are great. With veg I can eat most veg but being a Brit I prefer my veg soft! I cannot stand it when you go to a restaurant and they serve you green Beans and carrots which are still hard. Raw carrots are good though in salad or on sandwiches - the easiest way to eat them is to grate them or cut very thin pieces using a potato peeler.

Barbara, Congratulations on having your surgery date and I'll keep you in my prayers this week. I am 10 days post op and these are the things I can tell you from my experience. First of all, know that everyone's experiences seem to be a bit different as you can see from the posts. So it could be different for you. I did have on hand and made up prior to surgery a Jell O buffet (lots of different kinds) and lots of different caffeine free teas - loved the Almond vanilla and it made me feel better to think I could have more of a choice - after all how much choice is there with clear liquids. I also thought no problem eating this way for a couple of weeks, but it is taking its toll no matter how different kinds of Jello and tea I have - it's boring. I can hardly wait for some texture. I heard about the gas pains after surgery, but had no idea what to expect. Found it is not a good idea to be in a public place because of the screams they would cause me. They don't give a lot of warning either. My pains were mainly in my left shoulder area. Took a box of Gas X (not at one time) and it didn't seem to give me that much relief, but would recommend having one on hand. Walk around and getting your fluids is a great tip! I did go back to work the Monday after my surgery on Thursday. Take it easy - don't think you are Super Woman you will pay for it - one way or another. It's funny how your body will "scream" at you when you don't take care of it. I learned this by Tuesday evening I was on the couch by 4 pm in tears, exhausted, and wiped out. I rested a while and felt so much better, so rest when you can so your body can heal. I felt really pretty much back to normal by the 7th day. The port incision is still tender however. I also tried to get by without the pain meds when I got home, there is a reason they give you the pain meds so feel free to use them and not try to be a hero for the first couple of days. I hated the fact that they would make me fall asleep - but in hind sight, that's not a bad thing -helps in that healing process. I also found that using a straw helps me take a sip and drinking hot tea is another way to change any "gulping" habits. The other thing I wanted to share with you is that you may feel a tightness in your chest - right between your breasts - I couldn't tell if that was I was hungry, full, surgery, etc. But I guess it is normal from the posts I have found now, so check those out. It is crazy because there are times it seems I can't get full and other times I eat a half of a yogurt and feel full. So just start looking for the "full" feeling, you'll know it and I am practicing now not to push the bar for when the fill comes, I am not wanting to practice the PBing. I find it hard to also get in enough Protein and eat all that the nutritionist wants me to - so I would encourage you to get some high Protein shake or I got some Protein powder that I can add to my Instant Breakfast or pudding or yogurt - it's flavorless and not bad and gets me lots of protein, with no fat or sugar. Bottom line always follow your doctor's orders and you'll be on your way to a new way of life. The posts here are also very helpful and looking forward to using this resource to its full potential. Best wishes, Lisa Banded 12/9/04 13 pounds down

Squeal! I know! I'm still excited, but I'm prepared for that "omg what i am doing" feeling to creep up. I am doing so well on the pre-op. I think I'm able to stick to it better than my other attempts because I know that it's gone for good. My pre-op diet is no carbs, no sugar and lean Protein. I've gotten very sick on Atkins before so my nut. ok'd some carbs. I've lost 9.5 pounds in 7 days. I bought a new battery for my scale yesterday because I was worried something was wrong with it! lol How is your pre-op going? What type of pre-op do you have to do? You only have 11 days left! @@Fat2FiveK - Haha! I am getting really excited! I don't have to start my diet until tomorrow. My surgeon requires a 10 day pre-op diet. It consists of 3-4 Protein shakes (with a brand that they approve ), atleast 64oz of Fluid - Water, crystal light, broth, sugar free Popsicle, sugar free Jello, and 1/2 cup of non starchy vegetables. I have been doing a modified version of this for the past couple of days - a shake for Breakfast, a Light and Fit Greek yogurt and 1 cup of non starchy veg, and then a reasonable dinner. Since Monday, I am down 5lbs! Can't wait to see what I am able to achieve on the full pre-op diet! GREAT JOB!! 9.5lbs in 7 days!! That's SO fantastic!! Just think of how great you're going to feel when even more comes off!! Did you have to do a 6 month pre-op? @Erin414 - Welcome!! We can all be buddies!

My doctor has made me lose weight before surgery, my first visit was in January and he gave me 6mths to lose 60lbs. I have lost 40lbs so far and have one more month to go. He did not give me any drugs, but I do see a nutritionist and they put me on a 1200 cal diet, 60g of protein daily. I also cut out all sodas, I drink water only. Cut out fast food, sugar, pasta. I mostly eat chicken, fish, veggies, greek yogurt, and fruit. I also eat 5tbls of hemp seeds a day. they help keep me feeling full and have lots of health benifits. Good luck!

Love the idea of using it foe salad dressing. I love "creamy" dressings but I won't them anymore due to calories/fat. I'm going to try the greek yogurt with lemon and maybe some herbs as soon as I can eat salads. thanks for the idea!

Dang, Aubrie, you're making me look forward to breakfast tomorrow morning! :crying: I usually have yogurt with a scoop of EAS - tastes like chocolate pudding. Altho, I just bought one of those little pouches of cooked, crumbled bacon - found in the salad dressings aisle - and tried my 1/4 cup of scrambled egg beaters with a tablespoon of the bacon. Wow! It's power packed and a little goes a long way. As Homer Simpson says, "Mmmm, bacon!"

Cream of wheat made with vanilla slim fast and Water, cinnamon, vanilla and a dash of salt. It's WONDERFUL and loaded with Iron. Once made I add half a scoop of unflavored Protein powder. Even my DH likes it!!! Quaker makes a high protein instant oatmeal that is pretty darn good. They have two flavors, maple and brown sugar and banana bread. Kashi has two or three high protein cold cereals. I don't care for them much, but they are good in a pinch. I eat a lot of cottage cheese and yogurt for breakfast. Of course low fat...... On the weekends I eat omlettes or eggs. I don't have a problem with eggs as I beat them with milk and soft cook them. It's more like a custard than a sticky egg and it goes down easy. ricotta cheese inside a small baked apple with cinnamon isnt half bad either.

I can eat solids sleeved on 4/4 but really haven't tried much can people tell me what they are eating please I have a protein shake for breakfast cottage cheese for lunch and maybe an egg for dinner and then another shake and sometimes a greek yogurt Sent from my SPH-D700 using VST

I'm on the same boat I drink two proteins and a Greek yogurt I can't even drink all my water and I'm beyond full!

Okay…..so I am officially 3 weeks post op today, May 20, 2008 and am seriously ready to eat a cow . I have been this way since last week and the doc, oh I love him but hell, told me that as long as I am losing weight he is not too concerned about anything. My issues, I am not eating the 4oz that is suggested, but more like 10-12oz, and he said that is fine because I am losing weight so long as I am not eating crap. :sleep: I must confess, I did have 3 Cookies last week although totally drowned in milk, I did eat them and I told him this:thumbdown:. He asked if that was it and I honestly told him yes. I had not even eaten the recommended oatmeal, mushy Cereal, in fact no breads, rice, Pasta, etc. Right now, I want to dive my big ol but into a plate of nothing by carbohydrates or a greasy cheeseburger with some chips and queso, but I have refrained. :eek: Quitting sugar and, well hell the “good foods” (aka: fattening foods) the way I did was like telling a drug addict, alcoholic or smoker to stop cold turkey. I was told my insurance approved me on April 18 and I needed to start my liquid diets because they were scheduling my surgery for April 25, which ended up getting pushed back to April 29, 2008. Now, I am not ungrateful because I appreciate the opportunity to have this surgery, I am sure as much as any of you, but someone please tell me what I can have because right now I want to cave in and eat something that I know I do not need, should not eat and is totally against what this procedure is for. BTW……I have eaten the sugar free jellos and puddings, the sugar free popsicles and the yogurts, but I think it is the bread my body is craving as I have had ZERO of that (except those three cookies). I feel tired, worn out, not really wanting to do anything, which I am thinking is the lack of carbs as my intake is very minimal right now. Any suggestions would be most appreciated!!!!

I did experience aversion to food. I wasn't nauseated, but just couldn't stand eating. At about the five week mark I found a couple of things that tasted okay. Then thing started improving and I can eat now. At my worst, yogurt seemed to go down without a problem. I also had peanut butter on Melba toast or 1/2 a toasted English muffin. I love milk, so that helped.

Normally I have no issues bc there is a fridge, ice, etc at work. Tomorrow my mom is having surgery. I will be taking her & not leaving until she can leave. What can I take that doesn't need to be refrigerated? Normally I am at work at 8, have a yogurt at 9, snack at 11, and so on. I'll be leaving the house at 4 am, so I can take my yogurt with me. The surgery is at 7, and I'm sure I will be hungry before. Ideas? Thanks! Sent from my iPhone using VST

maybe just give solids a try for a week or so ? bananas, sliced apple, nuts, yogurt, 1/2 of a protein bar , or my personal favorite , turkey jerkey ! ( high protein, low in fat and calories.)

I mourned food (especially fast food) and I was miserable. I have learned to be very creative with my pureed food. I try to walk or exercise when it is not time to eat or when others are eating Water Water Water I bought a food diary and a very good calorie/protein/carb counter book. It is amazing how many calories are in the foods I used to eat. No wonder I was fat! I have posted this on other sites, but I will share with you: Oh my! I just made the most awesome Protein shake. pumpkin Spice Protein shake: (sorry, I didn't measure the ingredients) 1 scoop of vanilla Protein powder about 2 TBS of Vanilla yogurt Some canned pumpkin Splash of milk Pack of Splenda Cinnamon Ice Blend to perfection! So creamy and yummy!!

I'm gonna try the granola idea, and the Protein addition. I'm going to do plain yogurt, then use the fruited ones for a splurge. Thanks guys, you gave me some great ideas and opinions. It helps!

Craving sushi? You likely will not be able to tolerate your favourite sushi rolls because of the rice and seaweed wrap, however there are several other equally satisfying options on every Asian-style restaurant menu to consider. Indulge in an order of tartar or sashimi. These rice-less options are easier to digest. Don’t be afraid to ask if your favourite sushi rolls can be made with a cucumber wrap instead of the traditional seaweed wrap. This is often a ‘low carb’ option on sushi menus. Order a side of edamame beans. These soybeans are not only a good source of protein, but they are also rich in fibre. Try a protein rich Asian soup. Asian-style restaurants often have a traditional soup with eggs, tofu, chicken, and/or shrimp. Prioritize the solid pieces and leave most of the broth behind. Salmon or tuna salad. Most sushi restaurants have a simple green salad with a seared piece of fish and a flavourful salad dressing. Sandwiches & Wraps· Choose a sandwich on toasted bread. If it is a large sandwich, remove the top piece of bread. Great options include: chicken salad, egg salad, tuna salad and deli meats. Wraps are also a good option. Opt for baked chicken rather than crispy chicken. Breakfast egg sandwiches Choose a breakfast wrap or a toasted english muffin sandwich. Skip the bacon and sausage. Salad Almost all restaurants now have a green salad with chicken. Again, opt for grilled chicken instead of crispy chicken. Other high protein options include: taco salads, chickpea salads and bean salads. Chili Whether you choose the vegetarian or meat version, chili packs a lot of protein. They are also very easy to digest making them the perfect option if you have recently transitioned to solid food. Here are some other helpful tips to challenge those old fast food habits: Skip the combo option… yes, even if it’s cheaper! Don’t order a drink. You will be less tempted to drink and eat at the same time if you don’t have a refreshing beverage staring you down during your meal. Eat in the restaurant instead of in the car. If you are driving and eating, food is more likely to block. You can’t be mindful if you are multitasking! Choose foods described as: grilled, baked, sautéed, broiled, steamed, boiled, etc. more often. These cooking methods are lower in calories. Many corner stores and gas stations now have ‘grab and go’ options in their fridges such as sandwiches, salads, protein shakes, yogurt parfaits, etc. Next time you get gas, make a mental note of 3 appropriate meal options you could choose if you were in a pinch. Bon appétit!- Lisa & Monica

Congratulations on your journey as it seems you are already off to a good start. Don't worry about making your journey public as many of us here have chosen to keep our decision personal. Like you I don't eat cottage cheese or seafood but I find yogurt and different types of bean soups work for me. Don't stack up on to many food because your taste and craving will change after the surgery. Many also depend on protein shakes and powder as a good source of protein post-op. Wishing you the best on your journey!

Dr's prefer you to eat your calories not drink them. The band is designed to work with solid food not liquids, however lots of bandsters are too tight to eat in the morning so they have a shake for breakfast. Maybe you could have yogurt instead and he might be happier with that.

I was working a job that I had to leave my house at 7 and had an hour drive. Luckily I had the type of job where I could eat at my desk when I got there. I would have greek yogurt; and in a baggie bring the following to mix in: half scoop vanilla whey isolate Protein powder, tsp benefiber, splendra. This makes the yogurt even thicker. In a second baggie I would carry 1/4 cup Kashi Go lean high protein Cereal. This makes for a really thick mushie. Doctors are concerned that someone will have a Protein shake and being liquid be hungry a hour later. Then the person will be tempted to eat that donut because they are starving and it's hours until lunch.

Hi Guys! What is Pbing? Ouch getting food stuck sounds horrible! But so does overchewing food. . . I laugh because if I chew food so much that it liquifies, I throw up. . .can you imagin after I'm banded? I'll either have too much pain all the time, or throw up all the time. . . hahaha. . . what a scene that brings to mind! Hello Yop Yogurt drinks!

Map out your day, once banded, and you will be able to lose. I do not follow all rules of the band (I eat about every two waking hours), but I still lose. Your schedule will differ from mine, but the concept is the same: Know what you are going to eat the day before you eat it and stick with that. Here is a sample schedule from my day: 5:20 - out of bed, drink a sugar-free Red Bull 5:40 - on bike 6:40 - end of ride, time for a shower 7:14 - Drop son off at school and begin commute - Eat a Quaker Oats Breakfast cookie and bottle of Water 8:30 - Arrive at work, with meals in small cooler type lunchbox 8:45 - Eat one yogurt and one sugar free pudding - bottle of water 30 min after 10:30 - eat Clif bar - water 30 min after 11:50 - lunch - tuna salad and Soup 2:00 - Yogurt and sugar free pudding bottle of water 30 min after 3:30 - Red Bull - time to wake up. 5:00 - Start commute to gym - eat a Clif Bar and drink bottle of water on way 6:00 - arrive at gym 7:30 - leave gym 7:45 - arrive home and have some type of fruit and water...if it is a cheat day I may have a little full-fat, full sugar ice cream...moderation is key - never buy more than a pint at a time, then tell yourself not to finish off the pint that week. :cool2: In bed by 10:00 - non-essential chores get done on weekends.