auntielle

I'm 9 months out & faithfully taking all my vitamins. I am also religious about my protein. I was so afraid of losing hair & health issues that I've been doing what my dr says -- most of the time. Happy to report no issues, hair is thicker than pre-surgery & 85 lbs down. All the best!

Everyone has good suggestions. I would also make sure you journal everything you eat. I use my fitness pal & it makes a huge difference when I see what I'm eating & how many cal, pro, carb, fat, etc things are. I shoot for high pro, low sugar, fat & fairly low carbs -- but that works for me. All the best!

I asked for a low profile port & even reminded the dr when he came in to see me b4 surgery. I've lost 85 lbs & have about 40 to go. I'm also fairly small around my waist, naturally. So far it's not sticking out but I'm pretty sure the band may -- I can feel it easily. Hopefully, it won't show under clothes. If it does, we'll see. Congrats on a super accomplishment & doing all the an work!

Thanks so much for the info. I'm not down enough yet but llooking ahead. I live in Austin so Houston would work. You look wonderful! You're a great inspiration!

Enjoy! There will be more to come!

You look fabulous. If you don't mind me asking, who is your surgeon? Take care & enjoy!

When I travel I take things that don't have to be refrigerated like protein drinks, nuts, applesauce, string cheese. And I can always get most of that wherever I am. Then I am sure to have protein & have some an hour or so before I go out & just order an appetizer or soup. Using my fitness pal helps, too. Have a wonderful trip!

Don't give up! I would suggest doing all that YOU can do until you find the right restriction. Logging your food, watching calories, getting lots of protein & veggies, low fat, low sugar & exercising. I was banded in sept 2011 & have no idea how much is in my band but I think I got to the sweet spot a couple of months ago. Practice all you've learned & follow the rules so you will be ready when you do get there. That's what has worked for me. I'm down 82 lbs & want to lose 25-50 more. All the best!

Awesome!

Fabulous!!! Thanks for sharing!!!

Got this off the Internet. It's cool, tastes great & is pretty! 1 large mango 1/3 c red onion, chopped 1 c back Beans, rinsed & drained 1/4 c freshly chopped cilantro 1 jalapeño, seeded & finely chopped juice of 1 lime Combine mango, red onion, black beans, cilantro, jalapeño in a medium bowl. Squeeze lime juice over mixture. Stir well, cover & refrigerate until ready to use. Enjoy!

My go to then (and still) is broth. I got every flavor & found ones I like. I usually cut them with water. Also, you could try adding spices or herbs -- not too spicy. Good luck!

I had to do clear liquids only for two weeks post op. I drank the Isopure but cut it with water b/c it was too sweet & does have an aftertaste. The water helps it. Do try one of each of the flavors you might like. Some are better than others. Best of luck!

It only gets better. But, enjoy the journey & your everyday victories!

Way to go with your weight loss! Fabulous! I was thinking you might check with some online stores that specialize in bathing suits & see if they will still have them when you're closer to your trip. I'm sure some still sell year round. Good luck!

Awesome! Keep up the good work'

Went shopping in my closets. Got rid of everything bigger than large. Looking forward to the mediums! Soon, I hope! Thanks for all of the support & success stories.

You look fabulous! What an accomplishment! Love to hear the positive. Thanks for sharing & continued success!

I always have mini babybel light cheese, low fat string cheese, Premier protein shakes. I also sometimes have nuts -- measured out. There are also Kay's Natural protein chips. Pretty good & very filling. Got them through Amazon. I also have a "cooler" lunch bag which will only become more important this summer! Good luck'

So glad you are on this side of surgery & feeling great. I also had a good experience. I would add that you should take it easy & not try & do too much too soon. Even though you may feel great you just had surgery & need to heal. Keep walking & all the things your dr said but remember you need rest, too!

You are doing the right thing in finding an experienced dr who you trust & will give you the quality after care you deserve. Hopefully, the new one will be a fit! Regarding food, I started out using my fitness pal & tracking everything. Then slacked off thinking I was ok. However, I'm back to using it religiously b/c it keeps me focused & there are sooo many things that seem they should be lower cal than they are. Same for measuring food. My guess is usually larger than the actual portion. As for making other life changes, that is part of the challenge. Therapy has been helpful to me and I am going in a new (and happier) direction at 51. So, it's never too late to do what you want to do. Most importantly, give yourself credit for ALL of the positive changes you have made so far! I know you will find the support you need. All the best!

Waiting patiently & Honk speak words of wisdom. Good luck!

Good for you! Thanks for sharing!

Congrats! What a great update. Keep up the good work!

I have decided to tell very few people because it's no one's business, I've lost & gained a million times, I don't want to have to discuss it with people that don't get it & I don't want negative comments. So, I have lost 79 lbs & have 45 to go. People are noticing and I just say I am watching what I eat, portion size, concentrating on protein & exercising, all of which is true. Best of luck to you!