Sistersue

I am almost 5 mos out and today I noticed my hair is finally starting to grow back. It's about 1/2 long but it's a start.

When ieat out I get a to go box when they bring the meal and take off the plate what I can't eat then. That way I am not tempted to take just one more bite and then have to run for it and no one asked if I don't like it. I get chicken because I can get it down and it reheats well.

Rachel, you are doing so good!

Yeah! Good for you!

If you are getting hungry after 2 or 3 hours you probably need a fill. See the posting about the green zone. I get a little hungry every 4 to 5 hours. Which is a change from never getting hungry because I stuffed my face all the time.

I forgot the scoop of protein powder in the last recipe.

Some suggestions for those who don't like the Protein shake mixes. Try an unflavored Protein powder you can get them from GNC. Here are some recipes I've tried and love. 6 or 7 sliced frozen strawberries 1 scoop protein powder 1 sm banana 1/2 c plain yogurt Blend really well 1/2 c Water, crystal light, or juice You can also add 1 tbs cocoa powder, yummy 6 coffee ice cubes, break them up a bit before putting in the blender 1 scoop of protein powder 1/4 c of liquid creamer, milk, or yogurt 1 tbs cocoa powder Slenda or other sweetener to taste 1/2 c cold coffee Blend well 1 apple, cores and cut up 1/2 cup of crystal light, water or juice 3 ice cubes, more if you want 1 sm banana 1 tsp cinnamon extract Blend well Try your own flavor combinations. Using ice really helps and blend well. 1/2 c of yogurt

I've done pretty well. I've had a few plateaus but they only last a week or so. I'm down 73 lbs overall and down 61 post op. Onederland is less than 7 lbs away. I haven't weighed that little in 20 years. Skin is pretty saggy but I don't care. I have PIication with my band and I think that makes a real difference.

I'm with Fran as well. I come at this from the stand point of having been a drug addict so I may look at it differently than some. I knew I was going to go through withdrawal. I decided not to try to avoid it but go through it. In drug withdrawal the last thing you want to do is to use to ease your symptoms (if possible) because the withdrawal takes longer. I also knew I would be a witch on wheels during this so stayed away from people and went through it. It wasn't as bad as from drugs, no DTs, but it was very real. Baths help when you feel so tense like you eat your left arm. Good amounts of sleep help too. Pamper your self, but not with food. You really have to learn use things other than food for stress reduction, entertainment, comfort, etc.

This morning I read an article on the "new" Paleo Diet, I realized it the diet I already eat. Grass fed meats, veggies and fruits, high on berries especially and nuts, little to no grains or dairy. The person who wrote the article even had a protein shake for breakfast made with berries like I do. She did say it was okay to eat a serving of grains a week as a treat. I didnt know I was so trendy.

My Dr always does plication with his lap band surgeries. I've lost 73 lbs so far and 61 since surgery at the end of March2011. From what I've seen I've had fewer issues than and faster weight loss then those who don't get plication. I've had 2 fills and am in the green zone.

I don't eat prepared meals, too much salt and other crap. Plus they cost more. I control carbs by eating a serving of meat and veg at each meal. I cook on Saturday for the whole week. Usually bake my meat and the pack it in the freezer in containers so I don't have to deal with it each day. It works great, I get all my protein in, no need for snacks either.

Hi BigLW, my suggestion is always to call your doctor when you are concerned. You haven't had any real food I am assuming so you won't have a bowel movement. What you describe for swelling is very similar to what I had. But like I said, I'm not a doctor so if you are concerned give them a call. Pretty soon you may start to experience what we call, water in, water out.

I think how you are feeling is par forte course. Don't be suprised though if at some point you look in the mirror and don't recognize yourself. it happened to me after I lost 40 lbs not did I not recognize myself but no one else did either. It was weird, still is. People told me I looked like I did at 25 so I looked back at those pictures and it got better. I didn't think there was a stranger in my mirror. Pictures are good but grab a few measurements as well, i really. see progress there.

For the last two days I've not been truly hungry, just head hungry. I can put off true hunger with water but head hunger? It is kicking my butt. I keep thinking about food. Yesterday I gave in some but that didn't help so today I am trying to ignore it. Bike ride time! Any suggestions?

I rode my bike 5 miles and ran 1.5 miles I feel better now. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I think it hormonal. I've gained water weight since yesterday and feel crampy if it is it should pass soon.

I must say I scar weird. I too had breast cancer but years ago and was told that my scars spread too much so they didn't even try the scar minimization surgery most people get.

Try some smaller pants sizes, just because you can still wear a bigger size doesn't mean a smaller size won't fit better. I've lost just about the same amount in the same time and have gone from a 20 to a 14. Some of my more elastic 18s still fit, sort of.

Sign up for this months challenge. I created a schedule for myself so get some exercise daily and I at least look at my weight daily. Track your food on line using something like Livestrongs daily plate, track it all food water and exercise. You will be amazed how that motivates you.

Congratulations on losing 100lbs. I too have bat wings but I still wear sleeveless tops. The muffin top is an issue too so I am going to get a pair of Spanks for now and maybe remove the skin later.

Keep in mind too that we didn't all have the exact same surgery. I have the band with plication, someone else may not. Just because one persons Dr says food is okay earlier doesn't mean it's okay for everyone else. I imagine too if your had a hernia repair too that might change when you can move on. We aren't doctors here.

I do the same thing. It saves on groceries too.

When I get tired of chewing so much I eat chicken or ham salad. I use a light mayo and at this point I only puree some of it the rest I eat chunky, and chew.

I'm sorry I hope you get a fill soon. I eat between 700 and 1000 on a given day. I have good restriction so I don't get hungry much. Coffee, even decaf will calm my hunger. Nuts are good too for me.

You should call your doctor. I don't think that's normal.