mitspecrks

thanks, I am watchng every mouthful and am not maintaining or loosing which is discouraging. I am active. I had H pylori bacteria and is was really bad so nothing could be offered at that time. I had my first H pylori blood test today, one for next month and then in May again. After three months, I go back to the Dr and see if we can reband. I really liked the bad, did well and do not want a sleeve. I just don't want to gain weight. I went to threapy last week and am going back again to try to talk this out.

Mit, they didn't offer you the sleeve? I have noticed that a lot of people that need the band removed, get the sleeve done the same time or soon after.

I have to say, I would be so happy to lose 95lbs I know it doesn't console you, because you are gaining but you have to be happy with that huge feat. 95lbs is a small adult I am proud of you and I know you will start losing again soon. Good luck

I lost mine in Jan 2011 after an erosian and I am distraught. Lost 95 pounds, had it one year and two months. I get hungry but I am styaing 1500 or less and gaining weight. This is very true as I write everything down good or bad. Supper tonight was a salmon pattie made with egg white, 1 tsp olve oil to brown, peas 1/2 cut and 3/4 cup single serve broccoli with cheese 40 cals--one slider bn for 80 cals. I want my band back as it was so great for me. I am waiting for three clear H pylori bactor tests to clear me to seeif I can get it back. I am devastated without this tool.

I recently posted that I lost my band after a burst appendix a month ago. I had my band for five years and lost 100 pounds. I wanted to share my results one month after losing my band. I'll also check in from time to time to lend support to those who have lost their bands or are losing their bands. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I think I might have come to a point in my life where I can apply the knowledge I have gained over 30 years of dieting to reach a succesful goal weight and stay there.

Ok, my results at one month out with no band: 10 pounds down from before I went in the the hospital, appetite controlled, eating what I love in small portions, and feeling hopeful about the future flying solo.

I had/have a huge appetite problem and do not eat emotionally, which is why the band was so great for me. Having that hunger control was amazing. It was the first time in my life I felt full. However, after losing my band, I have been doing great controlling my appetite on my own! Here are my top tricks and tips for getting through the day with no hunger and without feeling deprived:

1. Protein, Protein, Protein:

Protein keeps us full! I aim for a minimum of 15 grams of protein at breakfast and 25 grams at lunch and dinner. The best "protein bargains" (high protein, low calories) for me are: tofu, fish and shellfish of all kinds, "pure protein" shakes, chicken breast, lowfat Greek yogurt, whole grain bread and Pasta, fat free cheese, and egg whites.

2. Fat!!!

If I don't add some fat to my meal, I will be hungry soon after I eat. If I add about a teaspoon to a tbsp. of good fat such as olive oil, avacado, flax, etc. it keeps me full much, much longer.

3. Fiber!!!

Always combine your protein and fat with as much fiber as possible. Fruits, wholegrain breads, Beans, and even fiber supplements are great. For example: a turkey breast sandwhich on whole wheat with some avacado and lowfat mayo. So yummy, high protein, and filling!

4. PILLS!

YEAH PILLS!!! I don't care what anyone says. OTC supplements help me alot. I have done about a million hours of research on the ones I take and have reviewed them with my doctor. We feel what I take is safe and helpful. I like green tea, red wine extract, garcinia, carraluma (Indian cactus), pine nut oil, and other "generally regarded as safe" food-derived supplements. These supplements help to control my appetite and green tea, specifically, is proven to raise the metabolism. So if you want to explore OTC supplements, check with your doctor, and don't let the naysayers get you down. There are things which do help to take the edge off. I think that the pharma companies are the ones who put the idea out there that "nothing works", because they want to be the ones to make all the money. There are things which work out there and you can find what works for you after consulting your personal physician and getting their approval, of course. And no I don't sell anything so I can't help you there, but do the research for yourself and maybe it could help you the way it's helped me.

5. "Fullbars"

Again, I don't sell these nor am I affliated with the company. This is a product which was designed by a weight-loss doctor. They are not safe to eat if you still have your band though! I know because I called the physician personally to check. They are only for those with no band. I get them at my local drug store and they have been instrumental in my success thus far. I eat one with a full glass of Water and it kills my appetite for about two hours. Again, check with your doctor if these could be right for you.

I am a firm believer that people with weight and appetite problems need HELP. We need to combine ALL the principals that can control appetite and we need all the help we can get. But believe me, if I can do it, YOU CAN TOO! You really can. I was the most hungry/starving person in the world before my band. But now that I've lost it and am combining everything I've learned in the past 30 years plus using the great new OTC products available out there, I've been doing fantastic!

I have been sticking to 1,200-1,500 calories per day and I do not restrict what types of food I eat. If I want a hot dog or chocolate, I eat it within my allotted calories for the day. Since I eat primarily high protein/fiber and take my supplements, I am in control and have not been overeating the high-calorie stuff. I've been eating it in small yet satisfying portions.

WE can do this!!! I am living proof. I know it hasn't been long, but I will check back in a couple months to give an update, and I'm sure it will be a positive one!

Good luck everyone, and never give up!!!

I had my band from 10/09 until 1/7/2011 when it was taken out because of erosian. I am heart broken to loose this tool and have a broken heart now. I was successful and lost 97 pounds, no issues until I got strep throat two times, in Nov and Dec 2010, took Keflex and got H pylori bacteria. I have lost weight before and never kept it off. I want to have another band put in, but not sure. Insurance no issue as they will pay for this as it came out in medical emergency. My doc is not sure if he can put it back. Has this happened to anyone? I look good but want to keep the weight off and not sure if I can. I need help and something but what. I am not gaining weight, and not hungry, but I have some pain and am still on medication. Please give views on situation. I had band place and removed in Louisville KY,