Day 18

[SteinLaFemme 8]

I am feeling good. Went back to work on day 14 and am eating mushy foods as instructed. I have not had a fill yet. I believe (but am unsure) that my next fill will be in two weeks.

Last night I had flakey fish (about 2.5 oz) and mashed potatoes (4 tablespoons) for dinner. I was in a rush and ate much too quickly. I felt full but I still binged on watermelon later in the evening. I wasn't hungry. I just had to have the watermelon. I made sure to chew it to almost nothing before swallowing but still. I ate the watermelon.

I am worried that getting "filled" will still not stop me from eating! Please give me some words of encouragement.

[gbb77901 113]

I was banded in August 2014 and have had 4 fills now. That feeling you are describing was me to a T. I felt ravenous and ate the same way. But 4 fills out, the hunger beast has been dimmed somewhat and I can eat more slowly and thoughtfully. Have hope! You will overcome this, and I would have eaten the watermelon too! Have a great day!

[NewLife'sGr8 241]

When you're filled to that "sweet spot" your ravenous hunger will fade away. That said, I still have days when I feel ravenous. On those days, I listen to my body (eat more) but usually make good choices of what to eat.

I'm 5-years post op & almost -100#.

Your selection of watermelon isn't a bad one though. It's mostly Water. Yes, sweet but naturally so (the best sweetness for us!), no added sugar.

You really don't have to feel bad or beat yourself up about putting something yummy in your mouth like a naturally sweetened fruit. Everything in moderation is a good mindset. That way you're not doing the psychological sabotage to yourself - self-guilt, can't eat anything yummy or sweet, etc.. Those thought set us up for failure. Back awaaaaaayyyyy from those thoughts....

Rather, LOVE yourself in all your human glory! It's time.

[ChelleChi1969 69]

It takes time... I'm five weeks post-op & still learning, adjusting, and coming to terms with all the changes I'm going through. The good news is that we've all taken that very important step & had the procedure done. I'm learning that this journey isn't a mad dash -- it's more of a steady pace to our own finish line. Sending you positive vibes & wishing you the best!

[SteinLaFemme 8]

Thank you for the encouragement. I am in a much better mindset today.

[JustWatchMe 7,117]

Head hunger isn't cured by WLS. But it's a process. I find if I HAVE to eat, I take a few bites of something healthy like watermelon and then interrupt the process for five minutes and then most times I don't need the rest.

[Bandista 7,466]

Sounds to me like you're doing beautifully -- so much about the band is listening to our bodies and learning to respond in a healthy way. Good for you!