MINI-Me

I did not have surgery with him due to price, but have heard LOTS of great feedback about him and Dr. Billings.

Congrats ... Sounds like you are right on track. Sorry about the nausea.

I promise it will get better. Those first few weeks, it's almost impossible to get in the Protein. I gagged on everything as well. EVERYONE's taste are different. I hated almost everything people suggested. What finally worked for me was adding Any whey powder (1/2 scoop) to Carbmaster yogurt (21 g of protein) and making

You CAN and WILL do this. Your stomach will not let you eat too much at one sitting. I used to be a MAJOR volume eater & this tool is like a miracle. One or two bites of my "craving" and I am satisfied. I didn't believe it before surgery & was sure I was going to be the one that this failed for. Well, guess what? It really does work!!!!! Just follow your plan. If you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor first & always come out here for support!

It really depends on the individual ... I've heard stats from 45% to 80% of excess weight. My surgeon considers it a success to get you out of the obese category. I consider it a success to get in the normal category. But, my goal is to be mid-normal range. As I get closer, we'll see what I really end up at.

I had surgery 1/27 & have lost 29.2 pounds as of this morning - 7 weeks out. I wanted that 0.8 gone, but I guess I can't be TOO greedy! My energy levels are getting back to normal & life is feeling pretty good right now. I did do a post yesterday about my calories creeping closer to 800 (range is 600-800), but I think I'm probably overanalyzing it. Pre-Surgery, I wouldn't dream of complaining about being at 800 calories per day. LOL

You are doing awesome. Keep up the great work!

I probably averaged that my first two weeks or so. I didn't concentrate as much on calorie sources as I did hydration. Have you tried hot beverages like decaf tea or broth? They seemed to go down easier for me than cold liquids. As far as the doctor office - if you don't think she's listening, ask for someone else that will.

If you have a Kroger or Fred Meyer near you, I would suggest trying some of the CarbMaster Yogurt. It's a great source of protein/low carbs and very filling (if you add 1/2 scoop of unflavored Protein powder, you get even more protein and no change in taste). This is hard time, but follow your instructions. They were written to help you heal and maximize your weightloss. As noted above refried Beans were AWESOME when I got to the puree stage. Also, try pureed chili and Campbell's Beef Vegetable - they are higher in carbs, but the little you eat shouldn't be a problem. They have a lot of flavor and can satisfy that need to "eat" real food. Best of luck!

Glad to hear you are doing well ... those first few days are not much fun at all. The liquids will get easier. Just sipp whenever you can! (Glad to know your husband was supportive.)

So, I have been very good the past few weeks staying in the 600-800 calorie range, but it's been creeping up to closer to 800 the past week. First quesiton - should I be worried? I'm having difficulty distinguishing between head and stomach hunger. I'm not craving things that are bad for me, just a little more of what I should/can be eating. I reached for 1 mini pretzel last night & my husband pointed out "Are you snacking?" Don't come down on him, I have specifically asked him to help me stay on track. But, I'm wondering, would one pretzel be ok every once in a while. It totally took care of my "urge" and I didn't want any more. Am I heading down a slippery slope if I do this? At 7 weeks out, how much were you typically eating at one sitting? 2 ounces, 3 ounces, 4 ounces, etc?

I love this! What a great reminder for all of us when the dreaded "stall(s)" happen.:001_tongue:

Congratulations!

Congratulations. You are going to love the changes in your life!

WOW! That is a lot. Every surgeon is different, but most recommend 60-80 grams per day (maximum I've heard is 100). Did your surgeon say why such a high recommendation?

I've never had a band, but know 3 individuals who have. They've not met goal in the 3+ years of having the band. Most importantly, they have had complications - swollen esophogus, throwing up, unable to eat certain foods, etc. Knowing that, I looked into other options and found the Sleeve. It appealed to me due to most of the reasons DeeDee mentioned. For experiences of ex-banders, look up posts/blogs by Tiffykins, youknowit, and FabBy50. Best of luck on making your decision.

Stacy160 is right. After the healing process, just about anything in moderation. Watching calories and carbs while you are loosing helps you stay on target and lose that much faster. Any other questions, just ask!

I am so sorry for you loss. We have a one year old miniature dachshund and I know how quickly they can get into your heart.

The surgeon definitely needs to know how his patients are being treated. If he doesn't seem concerned, find another doctor!

I cannot wait to get this butt into an 8 (or 12, 10 even). GREAT WORK!!!!

You are probably post-op by now. Let us know how things went for you.

Snacks aren't "allowed" on my plan either, but my nutritionist mentioned that if I wanted something, to find a low-carb, high Protein item to try. I've been using string cheese to fit that bill (since I cannot tolerate another protein shake!!!) Not only does it keep me satisfied it helps to make sure I add more protein to my diet. From what I've heard, acid reflux doesn't feel the same post-op as it did pre-op. Many people complain of hunger just to find that they need an acid reducer or to increase their dosage. As others have noted above, check with your doctor - you shouldn't have to worry about all this stuff right now. You are too busy healing and enjoying your smaller selves. :confused:

Always feel free to vent ... we are all in this together.

My pills were small so I was able to take them from day 1. I believe Tiffy's doctor said anything smaller than a regular M&M was fine. But since everyone is different, contact your doctor to be sure.

There is a slight chance of open surgery for everyone. I had to sign a statement saying that I understood that risk, but my surgeon said it was highly unlikely and usually under high risk cases. Talk to your surgeon about your gallbladder surgery and what you might be able to expect.