Jen C

Hi Josephine,I am still deciding on weather or not to have the surgery. I am looking for people like you, several years out, to get a better feel for the long term. I am wondering how people gain? Do people stretch their pouches or what? I see a nutritionist March 12th and have had 1 Dr. visit. So, they will be able to answer some of my question. But talking to people who have "real experience" answers is a great help too! I'm wondering how eating a 1/4 cup of food at a dinner out with friends is ever going to be satisfying? Especially after being banded for so long??? Do you ever want more than just a few bites? I was so excited and now I am a little sad...I was happy to read your post and I will continue to seek out people who are 5 plus years out. Thanks, Josephine! JEN

Ok Elcee, I never said I wasn't going to eat animal protein, fat or starch. I said these were not "the best choices" "for the most part"According to my nutritionist and Surgeon, fish, Beans, legumes, nuts, tofu, eggs/egg whites, vegetables such as avocados are great sources of healthy protein and Fat. Protein powder is good too. My surgeon is happy to know that I prefer these protein choices rather than red meat. Yours may feel differently. "choices" And yes, I am aware that we need to have fat in our diets. You repeated what I said, which is that it is important to choose the RIGHT type of fat. Choose the RIGHT type of food. So, thank you for agreeing with my whole point. "Choices" "Moderation and choices". What I read was not just the title of the thread but the question, which was, "I am pre surgery and I want to go food shopping before hand but don't know what I need" I thought she meant post surgery meals. Foods to buy for post surgery. When I read the answer about corned beef, gravy, chicken nuggets and deep fried mushrooms, I disagreed that those were good choices "FOR THE MOST PART". I still disagree. I am entitled to disagree and to give my opinion. Thank you, JEN

I am as interested in weight loss as much as being healthy, that's all. Animal protein, fat and starch are simply not THE BEST choices for our health. My healthy heart is as important as my healthy weight. Moderation is key. We can all make our own choices. I am allowed my opinion.....JEN

Thanks, It is lovely isn't it!....Exercise and water! Two great ways to help get rid of most of it, hopefully! What kind of protein supplement do you like best?? JEN

Meredith, I am concerned with the same thing. I've seen people loose a lot of weight and loose a lot of cellulite too. But I've also seen some people not loose much cellulite. I think exercise,(not my fave) is key. I'm 46 and haven't even had the surgery yet. This is a big concern of mine as well as my chin and face sagging. Good luck to us! JEN

The only vegetables mentioned were potatoes and deep fried mushrooms. She did mention fried foods,(deep fried mushrooms are fried foods). Believe it or not, I have heard of grilling and baking! Legs and thighs are not the leanest part of the chicken. Corned beef is a very fatty meat. Whether or not you believe it, these foods are not the healthiest choices a person can make. We can all make our own choices. I simply disagree that the above suggested foods would be good choices for post opp. The initial inquiry was that this person was looking for suggestions for POST-OPP foods to shop for. So....Not "spot on"

Hello, again. Jean McMillan, a member, wrote a cookbook and has a few blogs. Google "Band Wagon". Hope this helps too. JEN

Hello,I am serching for food ideas too. I don't think the advice from 54shirley is good advice. Steak and fried foods and gravy should probably be avoided for the MOST part. They can be hard to digest and just too high in fat! We are trying to change bad habits and eat healthy foods. We shouldn't continue eating the things that probably got us here in the 1st place. Good luck to you! JEN

Hey, I'm sure you can! I have my 1st appointment to discuss the lapband surgery next week! It sounds to me like you are doing everything right. Good luck...JEN

34 lbs. lost is better than 34 lbs. gained! I hope you get re-energized or get whatever it is you feel may help you continue this worthwhile journey....Keep moving forward....JEN

Hi. I have not had the surgery yet but I appreciate your input. I can see that there is quite a lot of work involved. Like you said, it works but you have to work with it. I can understand how a person can slack off or stray away from some rules and rutine. I think a forum like this can help people support eachother. Thanks for your candor. JEN