DanaAdams

I am so glad to see this post!!! Awesome time for reflection!
I have given up eating YUCKY foods! My body is thanking me...I am off all of my medications and feeling so clean inside.
I can now see the value of eating healthy and balanced. I am enjoying cooking! I love seeing what combinations of flavors I can come up with...and that they all are healthy!
I love being able to wonder how folks can eat all that food! I love being able to help folks see and understand that what they put in their bodies will determine their future health. I love being able to give folks ideas of how to cook and eat healthy...and to give their bodies the best chance of running like a perfect machine!
The best thing is that I am now rethinking my Master's degree program...I am very seriously considering getting my Master's in Nutrition. I am not an extremist. I am a person who believes in a well balanced life.
I had that mentality before my surgery...and now, since my surgery, I feel even more compelled to live a life of good health, good nutrition, and a balanced life style!

Let's see...where do I begin? I think I should start by letting you all know that I am 30 pounds from my goal weight. I had my surgery in October of this year...just a couple of months ago...literally. Since then, I have lost 16 pounds. However, I lost an even greater amount of weight before my surgery. I have lost a total of 67 pounds since beginning my journey of weight loss back in June of this year.
Now, I have to tell you that I am not your "normal" lapband patient. Nope! I eat normal...chicken, beef, popcorn...you name it, I can eat it. I swallow pills...regular pills...Not a problem. I live my life normal. BUT~~my normal is not YOUR normal. We are all different.
My lapband is NOT the reason I have lost ANY of my weight...not even the 16 pounds since my surgery. Why? Because I made a conscience decision to begin eating healthier way before my surgery. I had already begun to get in the mindset of eating smaller portion...that is something "most skinny folks" do already. I had already begun making wiser choices in my food preparations. I had a healthy mindset.
So why did I get lapband surgery? Because I wanted a backup plan. Yep! I had to gain weight three weeks before my surgery in order to make the cut off line of weight limit. We are not talking 20 pounds...only like 7 or so. I have always had the yoyo thing going on with weight gain and loss. So, gaining it was a breeze! Now, what I can say is that I have conditioned my mind and my body to eat "normal". And if my normal is 1/2 a cup...fine. If my normal is 3/4 cup fine. If my normal is 1 whole cup..GREAT! The deal is that my body is now working with my band. I am not overeating. I have never thrown up. I have a grasp on my life. I have a NEW life!
But~~YOU may be different. And if so, just remember, just as I have a testimony, I also have had many tests...and I am certain I will have more! So, as you are going forward with your journey, remember you are awesome, and your journey is YOUR journey. You are an individual and what works for one person may not work for another. Smile! And you will have a story to tell! :-)

Let's see...where do I begin? I think I should start by letting you all know that I am 30 pounds from my goal weight. I had my surgery in October of this year...just a couple of months ago...literally. Since then, I have lost 16 pounds. However, I lost an even greater amount of weight before my surgery. I have lost a total of 67 pounds since beginning my journey of weight loss back in June of this year.
Now, I have to tell you that I am not your "normal" lapband patient. Nope! I eat normal...chicken, beef, popcorn...you name it, I can eat it. I swallow pills...regular pills...Not a problem. I live my life normal. BUT~~my normal is not YOUR normal. We are all different.
My lapband is NOT the reason I have lost ANY of my weight...not even the 16 pounds since my surgery. Why? Because I made a conscience decision to begin eating healthier way before my surgery. I had already begun to get in the mindset of eating smaller portion...that is something "most skinny folks" do already. I had already begun making wiser choices in my food preparations. I had a healthy mindset.
So why did I get lapband surgery? Because I wanted a backup plan. Yep! I had to gain weight three weeks before my surgery in order to make the cut off line of weight limit. We are not talking 20 pounds...only like 7 or so. I have always had the yoyo thing going on with weight gain and loss. So, gaining it was a breeze! Now, what I can say is that I have conditioned my mind and my body to eat "normal". And if my normal is 1/2 a cup...fine. If my normal is 3/4 cup fine. If my normal is 1 whole cup..GREAT! The deal is that my body is now working with my band. I am not overeating. I have never thrown up. I have a grasp on my life. I have a NEW life!
But~~YOU may be different. And if so, just remember, just as I have a testimony, I also have had many tests...and I am certain I will have more! So, as you are going forward with your journey, remember you are awesome, and your journey is YOUR journey. You are an individual and what works for one person may not work for another. Smile! And you will have a story to tell! :-)

Let's see...where do I begin? I think I should start by letting you all know that I am 30 pounds from my goal weight. I had my surgery in October of this year...just a couple of months ago...literally. Since then, I have lost 16 pounds. However, I lost an even greater amount of weight before my surgery. I have lost a total of 67 pounds since beginning my journey of weight loss back in June of this year.
Now, I have to tell you that I am not your "normal" lapband patient. Nope! I eat normal...chicken, beef, popcorn...you name it, I can eat it. I swallow pills...regular pills...Not a problem. I live my life normal. BUT~~my normal is not YOUR normal. We are all different.
My lapband is NOT the reason I have lost ANY of my weight...not even the 16 pounds since my surgery. Why? Because I made a conscience decision to begin eating healthier way before my surgery. I had already begun to get in the mindset of eating smaller portion...that is something "most skinny folks" do already. I had already begun making wiser choices in my food preparations. I had a healthy mindset.
So why did I get lapband surgery? Because I wanted a backup plan. Yep! I had to gain weight three weeks before my surgery in order to make the cut off line of weight limit. We are not talking 20 pounds...only like 7 or so. I have always had the yoyo thing going on with weight gain and loss. So, gaining it was a breeze! Now, what I can say is that I have conditioned my mind and my body to eat "normal". And if my normal is 1/2 a cup...fine. If my normal is 3/4 cup fine. If my normal is 1 whole cup..GREAT! The deal is that my body is now working with my band. I am not overeating. I have never thrown up. I have a grasp on my life. I have a NEW life!
But~~YOU may be different. And if so, just remember, just as I have a testimony, I also have had many tests...and I am certain I will have more! So, as you are going forward with your journey, remember you are awesome, and your journey is YOUR journey. You are an individual and what works for one person may not work for another. Smile! And you will have a story to tell! :-)

Let's see...where do I begin? I think I should start by letting you all know that I am 30 pounds from my goal weight. I had my surgery in October of this year...just a couple of months ago...literally. Since then, I have lost 16 pounds. However, I lost an even greater amount of weight before my surgery. I have lost a total of 67 pounds since beginning my journey of weight loss back in June of this year.
Now, I have to tell you that I am not your "normal" lapband patient. Nope! I eat normal...chicken, beef, popcorn...you name it, I can eat it. I swallow pills...regular pills...Not a problem. I live my life normal. BUT~~my normal is not YOUR normal. We are all different.
My lapband is NOT the reason I have lost ANY of my weight...not even the 16 pounds since my surgery. Why? Because I made a conscience decision to begin eating healthier way before my surgery. I had already begun to get in the mindset of eating smaller portion...that is something "most skinny folks" do already. I had already begun making wiser choices in my food preparations. I had a healthy mindset.
So why did I get lapband surgery? Because I wanted a backup plan. Yep! I had to gain weight three weeks before my surgery in order to make the cut off line of weight limit. We are not talking 20 pounds...only like 7 or so. I have always had the yoyo thing going on with weight gain and loss. So, gaining it was a breeze! Now, what I can say is that I have conditioned my mind and my body to eat "normal". And if my normal is 1/2 a cup...fine. If my normal is 3/4 cup fine. If my normal is 1 whole cup..GREAT! The deal is that my body is now working with my band. I am not overeating. I have never thrown up. I have a grasp on my life. I have a NEW life!
But~~YOU may be different. And if so, just remember, just as I have a testimony, I also have had many tests...and I am certain I will have more! So, as you are going forward with your journey, remember you are awesome, and your journey is YOUR journey. You are an individual and what works for one person may not work for another. Smile! And you will have a story to tell! :-)

I totally do not want a fill!I have been doing well with own new lifestyle...so,I do not want a fill to change that! You just keep up your GREAT work!!!!

I totally do not want a fill!I have been doing well with own new lifestyle...so,I do not want a fill to change that! You just keep up your GREAT work!!!!

Great story, Dana Adams! I agree we are all different. You said it is a back up plan. I agree, I have it because I yoyo, too. I get bored with dieting, easily. That is my story. I have had lapband for 3 years and even tho' I knew what to eat for years, I ate too much junk! I loved bread, growing up, and forever. I can't eat most breads, so I have had to break a love affair with it. Best wishes, and stay awhile, you have a lot of wisdom to share. Karen

I totally do not want a fill!I have been doing well with own new lifestyle...so,I do not want a fill to change that! You just keep up your GREAT work!!!!

Why would you think that "only" six pounds is going to cause you to get a fill? Six pounds is great and if you are continually losing and feel some restriction you don't need a fill. there is one gentleman on here who has not had any and lost most of his excess weight. Others have never had a fill either. Don't be in a hurry for a fill if you don't need one. best wishes, karen

Let's see...where do I begin? I think I should start by letting you all know that I am 30 pounds from my goal weight. I had my surgery in October of this year...just a couple of months ago...literally. Since then, I have lost 16 pounds. However, I lost an even greater amount of weight before my surgery. I have lost a total of 67 pounds since beginning my journey of weight loss back in June of this year.
Now, I have to tell you that I am not your "normal" lapband patient. Nope! I eat normal...chicken, beef, popcorn...you name it, I can eat it. I swallow pills...regular pills...Not a problem. I live my life normal. BUT~~my normal is not YOUR normal. We are all different.
My lapband is NOT the reason I have lost ANY of my weight...not even the 16 pounds since my surgery. Why? Because I made a conscience decision to begin eating healthier way before my surgery. I had already begun to get in the mindset of eating smaller portion...that is something "most skinny folks" do already. I had already begun making wiser choices in my food preparations. I had a healthy mindset.
So why did I get lapband surgery? Because I wanted a backup plan. Yep! I had to gain weight three weeks before my surgery in order to make the cut off line of weight limit. We are not talking 20 pounds...only like 7 or so. I have always had the yoyo thing going on with weight gain and loss. So, gaining it was a breeze! Now, what I can say is that I have conditioned my mind and my body to eat "normal". And if my normal is 1/2 a cup...fine. If my normal is 3/4 cup fine. If my normal is 1 whole cup..GREAT! The deal is that my body is now working with my band. I am not overeating. I have never thrown up. I have a grasp on my life. I have a NEW life!
But~~YOU may be different. And if so, just remember, just as I have a testimony, I also have had many tests...and I am certain I will have more! So, as you are going forward with your journey, remember you are awesome, and your journey is YOUR journey. You are an individual and what works for one person may not work for another. Smile! And you will have a story to tell! :-)

I'm with the take the pills group. I asked my doctor about this specifically and he told me not to crush anything. I've been taking many pills and large ones and I've never had a problem.
What I'd really like to know, is why the docs vary so much on this one?
Cindy

I take all my meds the same as pre-band unless it is a huge pill which I would break in half. Always follow your Dr's orders. My Dr. said I could swallow any pill or capsule that would fit through the top of a small water bottle. It has worked for me so far.

Sorry to hear about the problems you have had. I take meds normally the same way as preband - to date I have had no problems.
It just shows that everyones band experience is different and that what works for one person may not work for the next.

I totally love going out to eat! What is even more fun is that I have the ability to choose "healthy" items without "desiring" those EVIL things!!! Heeeee! Seriously! We lovvvve going to Cheddar's to eat. It was amazing today! I ordered Grilled Salmon (lunch portion), Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots, Steamed Broccoli, and a side of pico de gallo. Soooo yummmy! Plus, I had plenty to bring home for
dinner too! Total calories for the whole meal--which I ate twice on--was only 500! Now, that is my kind of eating! Not all healthy things have to taste yucky...In fact, it is all about the cooking method. I have learned that I can still go out to eat and have FUN! It is the choices I make that are important....and most EVERYWHERE has yummy healthy choices...you just have to be wise and selective. I am actually enjoying being able to make those choices now...I am am in control! LOVING IT!!!!

So true! Also exciting to see the change in yourself. I now would not even think of ordering thing I used to order. Doesn't even interest me anymore. I want to see the scale to continue on it's downward slope!

Is prepared the way I want than an entire plate of something that tastes mediocre. Funny thing is, I just had this conversation with my dietician last week. Lately I find that I'm searching for richer flavors and more intense seasoning, but I'm also finding that it takes a lot less to satisfy me. She says that's what thin people do-imagine that!

So glad you have realized we can still do these things and enjoy them without sabbotaging ourselves.
I go out to eat from time to time and I LOVE that many restaurants are now (as of Jan. 1 required to list calories). Plus, many restaurants have special meals under 500 calories that are quite tasty. I typically order from those or will do like you ordered. We have a cafeteria at my work (and 80% of the items are healthy). They list what is in everything and the nutritional content. I find I can still eat out too and enjoy myself. The only caveat is I eat much slower than others that are gulping down their food but other than that... it's all good.
So happy for you and this IS a great story to share so others, especially newbies, can see that life does go on and we can still do most things we did before, just better than we used to.

Dana, I am with you. I love eating out, ordering what I like and telling them how to make it! Always more satisfied eating what you like! I used to love Duncan Donuts several times a week now I may have one donut hole once in a while.

I totally love going out to eat! What is even more fun is that I have the ability to choose "healthy" items without "desiring" those EVIL things!!! Heeeee! Seriously! We lovvvve going to Cheddar's to eat. It was amazing today! I ordered Grilled Salmon (lunch portion), Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots, Steamed Broccoli, and a side of pico de gallo. Soooo yummmy! Plus, I had plenty to bring home for
dinner too! Total calories for the whole meal--which I ate twice on--was only 500! Now, that is my kind of eating! Not all healthy things have to taste yucky...In fact, it is all about the cooking method. I have learned that I can still go out to eat and have FUN! It is the choices I make that are important....and most EVERYWHERE has yummy healthy choices...you just have to be wise and selective. I am actually enjoying being able to make those choices now...I am am in control! LOVING IT!!!!

I totally love going out to eat! What is even more fun is that I have the ability to choose "healthy" items without "desiring" those EVIL things!!! Heeeee! Seriously! We lovvvve going to Cheddar's to eat. It was amazing today! I ordered Grilled Salmon (lunch portion), Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots, Steamed Broccoli, and a side of pico de gallo. Soooo yummmy! Plus, I had plenty to bring home for
dinner too! Total calories for the whole meal--which I ate twice on--was only 500! Now, that is my kind of eating! Not all healthy things have to taste yucky...In fact, it is all about the cooking method. I have learned that I can still go out to eat and have FUN! It is the choices I make that are important....and most EVERYWHERE has yummy healthy choices...you just have to be wise and selective. I am actually enjoying being able to make those choices now...I am am in control! LOVING IT!!!!

I totally love going out to eat! What is even more fun is that I have the ability to choose "healthy" items without "desiring" those EVIL things!!! Heeeee! Seriously! We lovvvve going to Cheddar's to eat. It was amazing today! I ordered Grilled Salmon (lunch portion), Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots, Steamed Broccoli, and a side of pico de gallo. Soooo yummmy! Plus, I had plenty to bring home for
dinner too! Total calories for the whole meal--which I ate twice on--was only 500! Now, that is my kind of eating! Not all healthy things have to taste yucky...In fact, it is all about the cooking method. I have learned that I can still go out to eat and have FUN! It is the choices I make that are important....and most EVERYWHERE has yummy healthy choices...you just have to be wise and selective. I am actually enjoying being able to make those choices now...I am am in control! LOVING IT!!!!

I totally love going out to eat! What is even more fun is that I have the ability to choose "healthy" items without "desiring" those EVIL things!!! Heeeee! Seriously! We lovvvve going to Cheddar's to eat. It was amazing today! I ordered Grilled Salmon (lunch portion), Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots, Steamed Broccoli, and a side of pico de gallo. Soooo yummmy! Plus, I had plenty to bring home for
dinner too! Total calories for the whole meal--which I ate twice on--was only 500! Now, that is my kind of eating! Not all healthy things have to taste yucky...In fact, it is all about the cooking method. I have learned that I can still go out to eat and have FUN! It is the choices I make that are important....and most EVERYWHERE has yummy healthy choices...you just have to be wise and selective. I am actually enjoying being able to make those choices now...I am am in control! LOVING IT!!!!

I totally love going out to eat! What is even more fun is that I have the ability to choose "healthy" items without "desiring" those EVIL things!!! Heeeee! Seriously! We lovvvve going to Cheddar's to eat. It was amazing today! I ordered Grilled Salmon (lunch portion), Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots, Steamed Broccoli, and a side of pico de gallo. Soooo yummmy! Plus, I had plenty to bring home for
dinner too! Total calories for the whole meal--which I ate twice on--was only 500! Now, that is my kind of eating! Not all healthy things have to taste yucky...In fact, it is all about the cooking method. I have learned that I can still go out to eat and have FUN! It is the choices I make that are important....and most EVERYWHERE has yummy healthy choices...you just have to be wise and selective. I am actually enjoying being able to make those choices now...I am am in control! LOVING IT!!!!