Sal58

I got mine from Shaklee. I don't mind the taste either and it is only one teaspoon a day. Also Healthy Weight does a dissolvable one that isn't too bad as long as you wait for the bubbles to go.

I just turned 54 in June and had my surgery April 15th. I was only on the preop diet four days and so didn't lose much before my surgery. My starting weight was 234 and I was still okay on the day of the surgery. I know each person is different but for me everything worked out just fine. My weightloss has been pretty steady since being banded even though like you I was concerned that with my previous weightloss attempts things never really worked or I would be slow to lose. I have started to level out and losing between 1.5 to 2 pounds a week. I had my first fill June 1st (which was painless) and things still seem to be moving along.

Congratulations and please keep us posted as to how you are doing. Take care of yourself.

I felt the same way right up to the time I was on the table. Then for the first two weeks I started to doubt if I made the right decision...here I am 2 months post op and I feel this has been the best decision I have made. It is an adjustment. You have to re-think food and think about your eating triggers. Actually taking time to eat and listen to your body telling you that you are satisfied and not full is a huge learning curve. All the while worrying about getting in enough calories. I have found I don't worry about getting in enough....I concentrate on how my tummy feels and if I have head hunger or tummy hunger. For me the most important thing for the first few weeks was making sure I stayed well hydrated. I didn't feel like eating anyway till about week 4. I can't emphasize chew chew chew and then chew some more before swallowing...then wait in between bites and really listen to your body. Eating out was also a struggle at first since you will eat differently than others. I am to the point of not caring and just taking my time, eat slowly and enjoy each mouthful...and bring home leftovers. Keep posting on the forum as to how you are doing and if you have any concerns. Also make sure you have good communication with your doctor and staff. There are no stupid questions. Take care and I wish you much success.

I still find it more comfortable to lay on my back than on my left side and I am 2 months post op. Everyone is different though.

I also remember doing Wii bowling and archery....I guess I could have just over done it all. Thanks for your response though...if it keeps up I will call my doctor.

I have been banded now 2 months. I started having port area pain a couple of days ago while doing my walk. It really feels like a tugging, stitch type pain. Is this normal and has anyone else experienced this? I walk between 5 and 8 miles a day....adding a morning and evening walk together. I try and hold my tummy in while walking so just wondering since I am losing weight am I breaking up scar tissue?

I would serious talk to your doctor and if that doesn't help find a different doctor that will listen. Before taking such a huge step I would really try and rule out other issues first. The band is a great tool...don't get me wrong as I am 7 weeks now post op but it isn't the only answer...it is a life style change as well. I went to Healthier Weight in Birmingham. Great people and no pressure. First though just make sure you don't have something else going on. I didn't think I ate a lot either but this band has proven me wrong. Nibbling was my demon that came along with stress eating. Take care and I hope you find some answers.

Thanks for the info. I just had my first fill Friday and didn't notice a thing. I am on liquids though till tomorrow and then mushy for three days then regular. I was wondering what to expect. Right now with just liquids I am hungry all the time since the liquids seem to pass right through. I did get my little timer though so now ready to learn to listen to my body...stop with satisfied and not full. A new learning experience. Good thing is...the fill part didn't hurt at all. That was another fear of mine but it was totally painless for me.

My doctor told me to only come back if I find I find myself gettig hungry too soon or if my weightloss has stopped.

I had my first fill today as well. He removed what the surgeon put in and put in 5cc. I am on liquids for 3 days, mushy for 3 days and then regular food. It was totally painless. I am almost 7 weeks post op and have lost 26 pounds. I am starting to see the difference and excited about the next few months. 53 more pounds to go.

What a journey you have been on. I hope things work out better for you this time. Please keep us posted as to how you are doing.

Yep, walking, heating pad on shoulder, warm peppermint tea. Best of luck and keep us posted on how you are doing.