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i am about 10 lbs from goal and holding. i havent had a "problem" for a time now. i basically eat whatever i want, just controlled now. i dont really get stuck or pb or slime or any of that anymore. until day before yesterday. i was eating a sliced up apple with Peanut Butter for a morning snack. i think it was probably about the second bite that seemed to slow down. so i waited. no pain or anything, took another bite and the same thing. began to slime this time and some discomfort. began to full on slime and pb. by the afternoon i was so tight i couldnt eat anything but could gingerly sip fluids. didnt eat anything that night. next morning took a sip, a SIP of coffee and NO!! was not going anywhere. took a good 45 minutes to pass. so i was figuring just swollen/irriated from previous days mishap. well, instead of getting better today, i think i am worse! wth? i havent tried food, not even mushies! but every sip just sits and sits. all day i have maybe had 10 ounces of fluids. i tried hot chocolate, thinking the warm would loosen me up. no. tried some crystal light, maybe got in 2 ounces over several hours. got some pineapple juice a couple hours ago. i have been able to drink 6 ounces of it. i thought maybe it was working but just a few minutes ago i took another sip and its backed up. i am having horrible heartburn. S.O.B. and that is both a sob and a son of a...lol so now i am just debating on how long to wait before i call and schedule a slight unfill. this is the pits.

I was told take no longer than 20 mins to eat. That's the amount of time it takes the food to digest and start to reach your small intestines. If you keep eating, it keeps digesting allowing you to fit more food. It usually takes me about 10 mins to eat, slowing down for me has been hard to adjust to. Keep measuring, that is very important so you dont overeat and hurt yourself. Also, I eat about every 2-3 hours. Make sure you're drinking your Water too, that will help with your hunger!

The pre-op diet does completely bite! The good thing was I lost 10 lbs while doing it. It just puts us that much closer to our goal and everytime you drink the broth remind yourself how FINE you are going to be in the following months!!

hah, this sounds like fun! It would definitely make my experience better 10 more days, yay!

I had such an awesome birthday this year! Friday: It started with a 1.89 hill training walk (after doing 5.21 miles the day before). Then I got a pedicure. I hadn't had one since my sister got married in 2008. Then the rest of the day was a blur from the lovely April 20th holiday. Saturday: I finally got to a support group. It was good. I hadn't been to one all month b/c of work, and I felt really re-motivated to get back on track. We did this exercise where you write on a index card "Today I will" and whatever you want to do. Whether it's exercise, or take your vitamins, or stick to your meal plan, or not eat cake. After this specific group we have a clothing swap. I found this super cute dress that was too big, and I'm saving it for the sewing class I'm going to take next semester. The fabric was too cute to pass up. After that I went to the mall for 3 hours. That is nothing in Liz time. That's like 1 store. And I was able to hit 4 or 5. MAC, Sephora, TBS, Victoria's Secret, and Nordstrom. I renewed my card at MAC. At Sephora one of the girls there applied some blush and lip products on me. Another employee even took a picture of us and texted it to me. That was way awesome. I bought some stuff from the Sephora Pantone collection. At first I was unsure of my purchase, but now I don't regret it one bit, I love it! Then I went to The Body Shop b/c I had $25 in store credit to use ($10 for my birthday and $15 for reaching 4 points aka spending way too much money there. Seriously, I have enough body stuff to last me AT LEAST a year if not longer!). I got this set that has chocolate scented stuff and a loofa, which brought me up to my 8th point giving me a $25 credit I think, and renewing my membership for another year. After the mall I came home, got dinner for Jess and then dinner for me and packed for the hair show and stay at my brothers house. Sunday: I got up super early, went to the hair show and spent way too much money. Monday: I did the same thing minus the spending. I only bought a couple of things. I pretty much didn't eat anything until dinner. I had brought a protein bar with me but it was DISGUSTING!!! So I just went without eating anything b/c everything they had at the show was either super expensive or things that I can't eat. On the way back I stopped at Starbucks and got a grande decaf soy iced white mocha. It was yummy. And I got an extra one which I gave to my sister in law b/c they didn't make it decaf the first time. When I got back my brother, sister in law and nephew took me out to dinner for my birthday. Today (my actual birthday): I got up early, went to Denny's and got my free grand slam. Went to work, got my hair cut/fixed by my manager/friend (another coworker who doesn't like me didn't do such a great job on it). Then I went to Ulta for my free birthday brow wax and the girl did my makeup too. I felt bad for not tipping her more, but I'm so totally broke right now. I really hope she doesn't think I'm a total cheapo. Then I got my free birthday car wash. Then I came home, changed clothes and we went out to a hibachi grill for dinner. After dinner I dropped the bf off at home and went to Ross. There I found this pair of capri/petal pusher pants that I had been lusting over but every time I saw them they only had super tiny sizes like 3 and 5 or the shorts version (I can't wear shorts b/c of my legs). I did a happy dance in the dressing room. It's conceivable that I could fit the next size down (which they didn't have), but entirely possible that I couldn't b/c of my legs, either way, I'm used to wearing belts, so I'm ecstatic that I found them! I also found a super cute dress (I just need to find tights or something to wear under it). Finding the capri pants was the cherry on top of my fantastic birthday. I am so content! And and and I almost forgot. I tried on a pair of size 6 pants (just for the heck of it) and they fit! But they weren't cute enough to justify the price. I think birthday sex may be next and I am so looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow (if I can get to bed at a decent hour).

Hi Ladies, I am getting married next month and still don't have a dress. I went to davids Bridal to buy one off the rack. I have lost 66 lbs and I still need a size 26 wedding dress but i can wear size 22 pants. This was very disappointing. My question is does anyone have a beautiful dress in a 26 they want to sell or know where I can purchase one off the rack in ohio, chicago, or Indiana? Any help would be great ahving a small vegas wedding. Trying to get rid of at lest 10 lbs in 2 weeks....lol Thanks for your help.

Try alternating between your clear liquids and your protein shakes every hour... At the start of each hour, pour four little one ounce cups, and try to make a goal of drinking one every 15 minutes in 10 or more tiny little sips. Rest between sips and keep them really teeny. Don't take naps...you'll lose precious drinking time. If you just actively make this the goal of your life....you'll get your fluids and protein in. You won't get much else done...but you'll start to feel better and drinking will become much easier the more you drink.

For me I had to fly out of province to get my band, so the after care and fills was a huge deciding factor in making my decision. At first I thought I'd have to drive 1.5 hour away to a fill Dr. (and me without a car) but if that was my only choice then I would find a way to make it work - I had reached the end of my list of options and need the band to help me with my weight loss, so I was willing to do just about anything! If I want to fly back to the clinic then they will do the fill adjustments for me at n/c but luckily they now have a Dr. that is only a 10 minute walk from where I live! Each clinic have their own list of fill Dr. that the surgeon has trained to properly do the fills and some will even train your own family Dr., if they go to the clinic for the training. Do lots of research and ask lots of questions about the follow up care and where/who does the fills - for me this info decided which clinic I chose. Good luck to you!

How long ago did your Dr tell you this? At 10 months out, you should have progressed to eating a balanced diet of Protein and veggies. Are you trying to do low carb? If so, I can almost assure you that is the reason why your energy is low. Carbs are quickly converted to glycogen and stored in your liver. Glycogen is what your body needs for energy. Did you have your surgery in the U.S.? Do you have access to a nutritionist? Have you tried Premier Protein shakes from Costco/Sam's Club? Many, many folks who have struggled with protein shakes have found them tasty. But, I'm more concerned that you aren't able to eat a balanced diet. Are you to tell me all you eat all day long is meat or meat type products?

Its official. I'M APPROVED. Surgery on the 1/10.

I was sleeved 5/10 with hernia repair. The pain was way worse than I expected. I even needed morphine in the hospital. The gas pains are terrible. The surgeon told me that the incision should start to hurt Friday as that is when the local anthestsia wears off. I have been using the liquid hydrocodone/Tylenol and it helps immensely. Everyone is different but I know you can't use any NSAIDS. Sent from my SM-N910T using the BariatricPal App

The surgery went great I was told. When I woke after surgery there was not too much pain but I was highly nauseous and could not wake up. This has been going on all day so I have only been out of bed twice to use the restroom. It's 10 pm now and I am waking longer and the nausea has subsided some. No eat or drink till the morning though. Which is fine because I am not hungry anyway. Will keep you all posted!

I woke up this morning thinking of all the things that I can't have. Not the greatest, most positive thinking, but that is where I was. So I decided to go off a thread here and focus today on what I will gain. 1. freedom from food 2. smaller clothes 3. the ability to buy cute clothes anywhere for MUCH LESS MONEY 4. more room in my suit case (fat clothes take a lot of space!) 5. getting in and out of the bathtub without getting stuck. 6. sitting at a booth in a restaurant without getting stuck or feeling my gut hang over the table 7. more comfortable in movie theatre seating 8. better sex 9. look better 10. feel better I will have to continue adding to this list in the days ahead to keep my mind on the positive things rather than the negative. YOU CAN DO THIS, SHARI!!!! REMEMBER YOU ARE STUBBORN - LET THAT WORK FOR YOU!

I am new here also & have been using this site for research as well. I have this to be an excellent place to get some of my questions answered. I am just starting the process & will be attending a seminar on the 16th. I have my consultation on 11/10/10. I am so excited & can't wait!

The only real help i needed was driving since i was not aloud to drive for the first 10 days or so. No vomiting and very little pain. Best of luck.

Hi everyone! I am new to this site, my Daughter has had her surgery 2/10/16. We need help with food ideas, she is not hungry at all. She is lactose intolerant, we have a couple GENEPRO samples on the way in the mail, I hope she loves that protein! Today she can add fish!!! Yay!!! It just seems like the there would be other things she could add also! Any advise? Barb Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I was also sleeved on the 29th of october. I was on protein drinks from 10/15 - 11/15. I have been on mushie foods (yougart, eggs, cheese, refried beans, canned tuna, chicken, salmon and string cheese and sliced cheese. I feel your pain. Initially when I began to introduce my belly to food it was unhappy. My stomach griped and had issues. Today is my 5th day on mushie foods and my stomach is ok, but when you eat to much, to fast it will let you know. I also started my vitamins when I started. While on protein drinks I felt the same way. Once you get on food it will be better, but know this there is a new sheriff in town called your new belly. lol U are doing fine.

1 egg omelet with bacon and cheese is my favorite breakfasts Quest bar or Natures Valley Protein Bar when I'm in a super rush Huevos rancheros sans tortilla..... Refried Beans, egg, cheese and green chilis. I make a crustless quiche out of eggs, unflavored Protein Powder, turkey, spinach, cheese and mushrooms. The protein powder kind of stiffens up the quiche so I can cut it into squares, freeze them, and then pop in the microwave for a quick, easy breakfast. I do the same with protein pancakes (just add extra eggs and unflavored protein powder to Kodiac Cakes mix)....make a big batch, freeze them and pop in the microwave for 30 seconds. Bobs Red Mill 10 grain hot Cereal two ways...."sweet" by adding vanilla protein powder and blueberries, or "savory" with unflavored protein powder, cheese and Hormel bacon pieces. Greek yogurt with Kashi Go Lean Cereal or All Bran cereal (gotta have my fiber!)

12/19/16 will always be a part of my life. I'm blessed that I had such an amazing support system yesterday. So nauseous today with a ton of gas. And ready to get this drain out Sleeved

As mscafe32 stated, I have also lurked on the boards for months, but this is my first post. I started this journey on almost a fluke - I had a friend that sent one of those "16 things people don't know about you) that circulates on facebook...one of her 16 things was regarding her lapband. Prior to that I had never heard of it. As I researched and researched and researched some more, it seemed the tool for me. Not until about 5 days ago did I start wondering otherwise...in hindsight, it was probably the surgery, missing work, etc. that had me nervous, not the procedure itself. With that said, I had my band put in on 7/21/09 - so i am 3 days in at this point. I have found the Clear liquids to be a bit boring, but tomorrow I get to go to full liquids for another 10-14 days. During the time I was researching, I found that most people found the "gas pains" to be the worst, I concur. It is tolerable, but occasionally flares up. I do find more relief with the gas pains by using children's Motrin than with the narcotic subscribed by the doctor. I am still very excited for the potential of this tool. I applaud anyone who is going through this.

-fitting my butt in my office chair comfortably. :cursing: -not having to adjust my clothes every 5 minutes:blush: -buying fashionable clothes at walmart for $10 :thumbup: -walking up the staircase without the feeling of death!:frown: -riding my bike without tired flattening and butt bone hurting:blush: -fitting in to my 5 different sizes of smaller clothes i have stored away :drool: -not having to pull down my shirt to cover my ugly belly :wink2: -to stop my undies from rolling when i sit. -more energy!!!!! -less $$ on food :redface: add anything else???

Hi, Ryan!!! My name is Patty, and I live outside of Boston. I, too have been overweight since I was a kid, and have lost hundreds of pounds over the years. I got banded on July 1, and have lost about 70 lbs (about 50 pre op since may). It is by far the best decision I have made for myself in years. I wish I did it 10 years ago when I was thinking about it! So listen, you've got a great advantage!! Your youth!!!! seriously, the pounds come off easier, and with the band, they'll stay off.....plus your doing it early before doing too much damage to your heart and body. I applaud you on a great decision to take control of your life at such a young age!!!! The other thing about you being so young, is that you likely wont have many issues with excess skin, etc, as your body will rebound well, and work with your weight loss...if you were 40, yeah, not so much.....just remember when you're feeling up to it to put some exercise in your life...you will need strength training, along with cardio, and I bet your skin will look fantastic!!! Dont sweat the surgery...I didnt have any serious pain except some gas pain in my shoulder, and I was up walking that afternoon.....some pain in my port, but thats mostly due to my kids. I have 3 yr old triplets and my youngest has cerebral palsy, so I have no choice but to do some lifting.... so listen to your doctor and follow your pre op and post of diet. I use the EAS shakes (you can find them at Wal mart pretty cheap) and I use Protein powder as well (look for about 25 grams per scoop and as low carb as you can get...I get that from wal mart too) The eas shakes are really high in protein compared to the instant Breakfast and slim fast, and you dont need the carbs anyway... would love to keep in touch....give me a shout if you have any questions!! take care!!!

I have always been happy with myself. It has never really mattered to me what others have thought of me - because only I can control how I feel. If others don't like me because I'm heavy - well that's their loss. So in that regard, I'm probably not your typical morbidly obese person. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2003. My A1C was just over 7 - so not too awful. In the years following, it had remained in the low 7's. In the last year it has leaped up to the high 7's. My doc still says that I don't need an endocrinologist - I just need to loose weight. But he has no suggestions on how to do that. So, I research and try different diets just to have my weight increase to the highest I have ever been. Yup, that worked... NOT. But still, that wasn't the tipping point for me. In 2005, my back started bothering me. My doc has me do physical therapy and it helped. Then 2 years later, it acted up again - this time the pain went down my right leg and I woke up one day and was not able to get out of bed. I had to use the restroom of course, but it took me 2 hours to get out of bed so that I could walk to the bathroom - just 10 steps away from my bed! At this point the MRI showed I had a bulging disc and they did surgery to fix it. Now, 4 years later, I am finally able to stand straight, but can't stand for more than 5 minutes without breaking out in a sweat. I also can't walk more than 10 minutes without having issues. My health has really gone downhill since that surgery and I regret having it. My left leg is getting the same pain that my right leg had, but I will deal with that pain for as long as possible before having that surgery again. I know that loosing weight will help my back (at least that's what every doctor says), but again, that's not the tipping point for me. In 2008, I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and given a CPAP. I tried it for a year, trying different masks and machines, but felt that it was actually making my sleep worse and not better (I was more tired after using it), so I stopped using the CPAP. But this was not a tipping point for me. In the last year, I have had to get new clothes - size 28w. I have never in my life had to wear clothes that big. That was depressing - but still not the tipping point for me. My new avatar was a picture taken at Christmas last year. I was helping out at a Christmas program, and decided that I would dress as an elf since there was already a Santa. I found the largest elf costume that I could find - and it barely fit. The tights weren't even close to fitting, but luckily, I had a pair of dark green pants that worked well with the costume top. The gentleman who played Santa used a pillow to make him "fat" like Santa is supposed to be. But, as you can see from the picture, his elf was larger than he was! That was depressing! But again, it's not the tipping point for me. Over the past year or so, I've noticed I have had more issues getting myself "clean" after #2. It's been harder and harder to wipe everything. It just occurred to me that it's probably because I'm bigger and thus can't reach as well now. So, yeah, this is a definite factor in my decision - but still not the tipping point for me. (Sorry for the TMI.) So with all of that said, what really is the tipping point for me? It's the fact that although I have insomnia big time, I could fall asleep easily during the day and I am so lethargic that I don't do activities that I used to. It's getting worse too. I've seen my parents do this, and some friends and I hate that they do this. I have realized I am becoming like them and I really do not want that to happen. So how crazy is it that the reason I finally decided to do this is because I am literally tired of being so tired?

Wow- best of luck to you Monday people! I sure am nervous too... It has to be a natural reaction to an elective (but so necessary) surgery. 9 days and counting for me but with all of this anxiety it's a damn good thing I'm on this 2 week liquid diet... I would have gained 10 instead of losing 10lbs. Kind of feel like I'm standing on the edge of a cliff with safety below... So grateful for the people on this forum!

Hi Mellisa, I also have bipolar and am pre-op. I was diagnosed in July and put on depakote and gained 10 lbs in 2 months because of it! After informing my psychiatrist of my decision to get the band and my strong feelings that the depakote was making me gain weight AND worsen my anxiety (I was worrying about gaining weight lol), she changed my medication to trileptyl. My suggestion is to inform your psychiatrist of your plans to get the band. Mine had many patients that had it done actually and she started changing my medication right away. I haven't had any weight gain on this medication and had enough time pre-surgery to get my body adjusted to the new meds. I know changing can be a pain in the butt, but when the medication is counteracting what you're trying to do with the surgery, it's going to make it much more frustrating and stressful. I hope that helped! Good luck to you!