I've had my moments, but I'm SOOO happy I did this!

[Luana526 61]

My surgery was September 26. Looking back (even though it's very recent), I can honestly say that the the biggest adjustment comes when you are given freedom to eat solid foods. What a challenge! When the diet was dicated to me (liquids, then soft solids, etc.) I ate from the list and that was that. But when you begin to explore what works for you and what doesn't (as far as the permanent diet), that's when the real adjustment comes in. And those first few weeks after begin given that freedom I had a few episodes where I either ate too much at once, too fast, or didn't chew well enough (good news: it's so unpleasant, you'll be sure to only do that ONCE!). But here I am 47 and a half pounds down and I am so deliriously happy. And I have a very unusual frame/body, apparently, because I lost close to 30 pounds before people even started to notice. I lose it all over, very evenly. I'm down one size (although ready to go into next size), but I'm okay with that. It really comes from all over on me--my rings are big, I'm even sliding around in my shoes. I have two friends who are ready to take the plunge because they see my success and like me, they've tried just about everything. They are both post-menopausal and the weight just wants to stay put. I know, I was there.

It's a little bit of a challenge getting in my Protein, although God knows I concentrate all day long on doing that. I find that some of my tastes have changed a bit. I never had a "sweet tooth" before, and now I have even less of a tolerance for sweets. So getting down a Protein Bar or shake is literally an all-day task for me. I'm trying to finish a Protein Bar right now that I started yesterday. I take a bite here and a bite there.

You know what the best part about this whole journey is? Besides that I feel fantastic and I'm so happy I did this, the best part is not having that old love/hate relationship with food. I can be around it, have it in the house, go to parties, and never, ever fear that I'm going to overeat and hate myself afterwards. Aside from concentrating on the Protein, I can honestly say I eat what I want and when I want and I have been losing consistently. I make better choice now, because who wants to go through all this and then eat junk food? Even then, I am very, very cognizant of the fact that I am eating a fraction of what I would eat before.

I would encourage anyone considering the sleeve: it will be the best gift you will ever give yourself. I am enjoying life in a whole new way. Good luck!!

Edited January 3, 2015 by Luana526

[Elode 8,093]

@@Luana526 That writing gets me every time! So tiny! Pretty, but tiny! Yay for being happy with your sleeve!!! It's a wonderful thing!

[Luana526 61]

I didn't choose that font! You're right--it's hard to read. I'm going to change that. Thanks!!

[Elizabeth21 175]

@@Luana526 Thanks for sharing your excitement! As for getting your Protein, try using some unflavored powdered Protein to boost your intake. You can add it to your drinks between meals and foods you eat. Good luck!

[juliedee 11]

Try some of the "New Whey" liquid Protein... they are fruit flavored but not too sweet. BUT, the best part is 42 grams of Protein in 3 oz! Lots of flavors to choose from, too.

[kikicoates78 220]

Yay for positivity!

[Luana526 61]

Thanks for the suggestions! I just bought some unflavored Protein. I'm going to add it to my fruit/spinach shake in the morning. Happy New Year, everyone!!

[Kathy812 794]

@@Luana526, you're doing great. I agree w/you, it's the best decision I've made in a while. I haven't lost a lot but I'm certain I'll reach my goal. Right now I'm enjoying the nsv's ( being able to walk through a mall without back pain, energy, energy, energy. Dancing through an entire song without being winded, LOL etc. etc. etc.).I have no regrets!

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

So nice to hear someone so happy. I was sleeved around the same time as you and I agree the changes feel great!

[Elode 8,093]

@@Luana526 Oh lala that's MUCH better writing!!! I feel bad because I usually end up just skipping over that writing when I see it, it hurts my eyeballs And It makes me strain and I'm not even At that stage in my life yet!! I'm kinda jealous of that color though! How did you do that?

Edited January 4, 2015 by Elode

[Marie8777 136]

V.

[blondebomb 580]

I totally relate!! I share your excitment! I luv the fact the relationship with food changed. this freedom feels awsome! I only told a few close friends so believe me I am getting the stairs. I try to avoid an pretend I dont notice but its getting hard to keep that up. I didnt make public what I was doing but maybe in time for now they can just look..