blueturtle

Thanks for the encouragement yes I made an appointment Monday to get a small unfill and talk to my doc about my weight loss

@@deeberry I'm sorry your having a rough time of it. The first thing I would do is make an appointment with the Dr. If your too tight that is defeating the purpose. The more irritated your belly gets from throwing up the more inflamed it makes the stoma around the band and the tighter the opening of the stoma can be making it more and more uncomfortable.
In the meantime go back to liquids to give the stoma a rest and maybe ease some of the swelling as well as to reboost your weight loss. When I get into that spiral that is what I do. I take it back to basics. If I am swollen and it can happen sometimes just from certain foods I eat if they are too spicy or if I am sensitive to them, or even medications that I take. It can even happen as a result of a cold or allergies where I have excess (nasty) stuff in my throat and my band is tighter. I give it a rest and just revert to a shake now and then and once I feel that it is relaxed and not irritated I will resume eating solid foods.
If you think you don't need to be unfilled and just need a rest, then try doing liquids for a few days. If your still having trouble with the yogurt after a couple of days of liquids then you need a small unfill.
I know it can be devastating when your not able to move around like you did before. I broke my foot a few years ago and I had to be totally off of it and I was in cast and then a boot for nearly 4 months. The plus part of that was while I was on crutches I was getting so much exercise having to lift and haul my body weight around I actually LOST weight, but that was long before WLS.
As you can get to moving around more start to incorporate that into your daily activities even if it's just a few extra steps or a couple of parking spots from your usual spot etc. every step counts!!
Let us know how your doing...and don't give up hope!!! We can reset our minds and our bodies any time we choose to, and make a fresh start. So let this be your new start...and here we go!!!

Have you gotten off track and lost your "Bariatric Brain"? Maybe it's time to start thinking like a bariatric patient again!


Let’s face it - after bariatric surgery, life is not the same. Your diet will change, your body will change, and in many cases, your attitude will change. For many of us, however, a point in time comes when we find ourselves in a different state. In some respect, we almost forget that we’ve had bariatric surgery.
After our initial phases of being on liquids, soft and chopped foods, and transitioning into full solids, we spend some time reveling in our ability to eat a ton less and to be able to only eat certain foods. For the first 6-12 months, we are in a “honeymoon phase” of sorts - we’re losing weight easily, we have the assurance that we just CAN’T eat certain things such as rice, bread, Pasta, etc., and we’re in a certain mindset that I’ve dubbed the “Bariatric Brain”. For some of us, that mindset remains because we are never able to eat certain things without them getting stuck or without experiencing dumping syndrome. For others, that mindset all but disappears when we discover that we can eat certain foods without sliming or them getting stuck, or that other foods no longer send us to the bathroom for an hour.
From my own experience, the downfall out of the “Bariatric Brain” began 6 months after my surgery. I was told my my nutritionist that I was allowed to have carbonation from that point on. I was a little confused, as all of the other people I knew with the sleeve had been told they could never have it again, but my addiction to diet soda was stronger than my common sense. From that point on, I learned I could also eat bread (8 months), pasta (10 months) and rice (14 months). From there, it was no-holds barred.
Something else that happens with the sleeve that they don’t tell you is that at a certain point - your stomach capacity will increase after a time. This is because for a few months, it’s swollen to a point that you can only hold about ½ a cup of food at one time. After the first year, and it is completely healed, that capacity increases to about a cup. For someone that’s not expecting that, it can be a little confusing. For a food addict, it can be exciting and tempting. At that point, you are no longer bound by restrictions.
When this happens, some people begin to forget about their surgery. They begin to get back into a different mindset. One of “oh, I can eat this!” instead of, “Nope - gotta leave that off”. When this happens, the diet shifts to one of fast food, sugar, carbs, soft drinks, and alcohol (not every food in every case, mind you). It is that moment when the tool that we so greatly loved and admired begins to fail us. Or, rather, WE begin to fail our TOOL.
When this happens, it’s time to return to the mindset we were in during the first year. It’s time to think like a bariatric patient again.
This is no easy feat, after all, we’ve returned to our addiction - FOOD.
But at the same time, in the case of most other addictions - drugs, alcohol, nicotine, etc. - there is almost always a backslide. A heroine addict may sneak out of rehab for that one more fix, an AA leader might get depressed one night and get insanely drunk, someone trying to quit smoking might sneak a puff or two at a rock concert. These instances are normal and, some believe, even a healthy part of the healing from addiction. If this is acceptable in these cases, why is it not acceptable in the weight loss world?
When this happens, take a step back. Look at yourself from the outside in. It’s important here to remind yourself that getting off track is NORMAL and OK. Although not everyone has done it, many MANY people have - and some of those people have the most successful weight loss stories on the Bariatric Pal forum.
With that in mind, how does one go back to the “Bariatric Brain”?
Go Back To Basics
Remember what started the weight loss to begin with? Protein, Water, walking? Get back to it! Make sure you’re getting AT LEAST 60g of protein a day (even better is 80-90g!). Make sure you’re getting AT LEAST 64oz of water a day, and make sure you’re getting some kind of activity for AT LEAST 15 minutes a day (30-45 minutes is better).
Return To Liquids?
Some people return to a liquid diet for a few days (no more than 3). They feel that this helps “reset” their system and returns their mindset back to where it should be. One way of doing this is through the “5-Day Pouch Test” (designed for RnY or Gastric Band patients) in which you return to liquids for a few days then gradually return to solid foods.
For those that have the sleeve or the duodenal switch, the pouch test might not work for you as it’s not designed for that kind of surgery. That being said, if you feel the need, you can also return to liquids for a few days.
Return To Support Groups
Support groups are the #1 key to a successful weight loss surgery, regardless of your surgery or your stage. If you are a year or more out, consider returning to a support group. Hearing what the people in the early stages are having issues with, and helping them work through those issues can, in fact, help you work through yours.
Read, and Educate Yourself
Consider finding books, articles, cookbooks, and magazines on bariatric surgery. Do research on one aspect that really interests you. Immerse yourself in it again like you did in the beginning!
Remember Your Motivation
What was your reason for having Bariatric Surgery to begin with? Your health? Your family? Your looks? Looking at what you wanted from your surgery and where you are now might help you to refocus.
In The End Remember …
What you are going through right now is okay, and completely normal. Thousands of people are going through exactly the same thing you are. You are not alone!
Remember that if you’re REALLY struggling, you can always find help. Talk you your nutritionist or dietician, seek mentorship in a support group, or find a good counselor that has experience with food addiction and bariatric patients. And ALWAYS remember - YOU CAN DO THIS!!!

It's hard to stay hydrated during the cold winter months. These tips will help you get your liquids in and stay warm!


It’s no secret that hydration for a WLS patient is key. We’re told from the very beginning to “sip sip sip” our Water, after all. But during the winter, it can be hard to get our liquids in. Let’s face it, it’s cold out there and we really don’t want to drink water all the time!
Although water is the very best way to stay hydrated, during the winter months there are other, warmer, ways to get our liquids in. Here are a few tips that will keep you cozy and hydrated at the same time!
1. Warm broth. Weather it be chicken, beef, or veggie, broth is delicious, warming, and comforting. If you make homemade Bone Broth, it can be very nourishing as well!
2. Hot Apple Cider. You can make your own or buy it pre-packaged. Watch the sugar content, however, especially if you have issues with dumping. To make your own, put some of your favorite no-sugar-added or sugar free (100% juice) apple juice in a saucepan or crock pot. Add some spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, orange peel or ginger. Allow it to warm slowly and enjoy!
3. Hot tea. Herbal or black, hot tea is a great way to get warm and to get our daily liquid requirements. Try a nice cup of earl gray with a twist of lemon and a little honey. Some wonderful herbal tea blends that we love are orange spice and peppermint.
Like we said, straight water is best for hydration, but during the winter months sometimes you just have something to warm you up from the inside out!

Colleen, You are a talented writer. I enjoy each and every one of your articles....... Love that sense of humor you have. I try to live my life not too seriously, so I can relate in many ways to you and your wacky self........ I probably would have been personally praying that somebody had poured the rest of their Starbucks on top of it to SEAL THE DEAL of not getting it out of the trash can. On a personal note, I don't like FUDGE !

Loved the reading, and made me chuckle. I'm sure we will all have times where we will go through the similar. You had me wondering "will she, no not in the middle of the airport, but wait it should be right on top, and who would know if she walks away with it, and opens some where else. So does she? Ah, she didn't, good for her." Lol. Thanks!

Umm, fudge! It had been a crazy busy week. Away from home for 10 days, facilitating two training courses and speaking at an Obesity Summit, I was tired and ready to go home. Though I have a pretty good routine when I travel and stay focused on my good Success Habits, I was tempted


Umm, fudge! It had been a crazy busy week. Away from home for 10 days, facilitating two training courses and speaking at an Obesity Summit, I was tired and ready to go home. Though I have a pretty good routine when I travel and stay focused on my good Success Habits, I was tempted beyond my ability to resist, to buy a piece of fudge. Umm, I love fudge and of course the walnuts added the all important “protein.” I had kept up with my exercise and make good food choices all week, so I felt justified in splurging a bit.
As it always does, the first bite was heavenly! Smooth and creamy. So good. I relished that first bite, waited a bit and then another, and yet another. Enough! I thought. I’m good. Now I am going to mindfully throw the rest away. A difficult thing to do knowing how much I paid for it and due to all of the starving people in the world. But I knew it had to go. With Michael Jordan flair, I strutted by the trash can and slam dunked it. There! Good for me. I would have high-fived the guy next to me, but he gave me a funny look so I decided I would just Celebrate privately.
Boarding for my flight began and victoriously, I marched onto the plane. Safe from “too much” fudge. An hour passed by still on the tarmac, waiting for a mechanical repair. Finally, the captain announced that we would need to deplane and board another flight. By that time I had missed my connecting flight in Denver so I knew enough to get off the plane and get quickly in line for re-booking.
As I waited patiently in line, I don’t know why, but the thought of my left over fudge so close by started to haunt me. Though I am embarrassed to admit it, here is the conversation in my head. “This situation is beyond stressful and surely another piece of fudge would calm my nerves.” Honestly, you are not thinking of getting the fudge out of that trash bin over there are you?” Well, it is still good, it was wrapped up and in the bag.” Really?” What will people think of you digging in the trash?” “It will be right on top. Easy and there are not too many people over there, I can be quick!” Come on, seriously, you are better than this. You don’t eat food from the trash! Well I guess you are right! Thank goodness.”
Whew! That was close. It shouldn’t have even crossed my mind but it did. Why, I wonder? What is this problem I have with food? I was pleased that my good voice over ruled my temptress voice but I would have preferred not to have had that conversation at all! Perhaps you can relate?
Sometimes I find myself focusing on how unfair it is that I struggle with such unhealthy food relationships. But then, I am both relieved and proud that I have been able to win many of these battles. And every time I do – the “you can do it, you are better than that” voice gets stronger and stronger. For those of you who have heard my other crazy food stories, you’ll know how important it is when I say, I don’t eat M & M’s off the floor, whipped cream with my fingers, OR fudge from the trash! Yeah!

I think that there are still plenty of "classic" type clothing available. I am a Ross Dress for Less fan - plenty of junky stuff there but also nice stuff. I sometimes shop in the juniors stuff for a few fun things, but they also have nice Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and other "adult" fashions that are classic without looking frumpy old lady.
I will never ever wear a once piece jumpsuit. Never. ever.

I have a few pair of jeans available. Venezia and also some Shapewear - great jeans with a "sliming panel" in the tummy and thighs. I can ship a few in a flat rate box. Let me know if you are interested. (send me a message)

I hope I can try it out again later on cause I miss the small street tacos....

@RNBSN786 I was going to say the same as @piercedqt78 no need for the shell of any kind...ever ... just have the fixings are you are "good"... enjoy... I really don't miss the shell (soft or hard) at all anymore...

or just eat the filling. I skip the shells now.

@@RNBSN786 Yes, you are pretty early out, but time will fly and then you can taco your heart out

Wish I could have street tacos...tried one last week and couldn't even get one bite down. I am still new with all this so I am going to try it later on. Perhaps 4-6 months down the road. We have this awesome taco place here the taco truck and their tacos are amazing. Use to have them regularly pre-surgery. Am going to try hard shell tacos moving forward cause the soft tortilla doesn't do well for me right now...

My favorite now that i can eat a bit, i order the chicken or carnitas meat only side of salsa and some sliced avacado cilantro and lime. Under $2 and still have enough for about 2 to 3 meals although my son usually beats me to it.

I again want to thank everyone who is taking their time to comment. I plan on going out a lot more now that I am feeling more normal. I will use these tips to help me stay on track! Everyone's advice has been read and considered and is so valuable!
I plan in cleaning out my van today and getting a nice container to pack all my goodies in!!

Core power is a good Protein Drink if your stuck out. Btw greek yogurt may have been your better choice for Protein. Another tip is to carry some Protein powder with you. In a.pinch u can add it to Water and mix it up and drink it. You will get better at preparing for any happenings. Good luck to you.

Let me suggest this: if you want treats in the house, make them yourself.
You see the easy availability of Snacks is a problem. Fill the house with the good veggies and fruit since that is going to help you. food is not a reward, maybe for your animals, but even the "good life" results in a whole lot of animals needing hip fixes and the like for weight issues.

Watch out for "light" options. They often substitute carbs for fat. Fat does not make you fat, but carbs will nail you.
Forgot to mention Japanese. Sashimi, edamame, cucumber salad, miso Soup. Low carb and high Protein. Great!

I know its controversial but I go with a Starbucks breve latte. Its high fat, high cal but low sugar. Its also got higher Protein than a regular latte. Takes a long time to drink and fills me up!
Otherwise, you can always find planters peanuts and cheeses anywhere.

I agree with the milk comment-I had trouble with milk products before surgery, and now I am completely lactose intolerant since I had surgery. That cuts out a lot of your options!! You just have to find what works best for you!! Good luck..

Thanks for the helpful ideas everyone wow.

I use the P3's mentioned by @@DelayedGratification and love them. I eat the meat and cheese for my meal and then have the peanuts or almonds for later. I have also discovered that if you ask nicely at Wendy's they will go into the salad options and just charge you for an extra chicken breast (about $1.75-$2.00) it's grilled, and they will also give you a sauce or dressing if you ask for it. Right now I'm hooked on the pom vinegarette and the new Asian ginger, both are light, and really give the grilled chicken some flavor. I usually get that, and pay the extra and have them add shredded cheese to my chicken if I'm really hungry or haven't had any dairy for the day. If not I have my chicken dipped in the dressing (a better choice than their sauces) and I'm full, my lunch was cheap, and I have zero guilt. If my daughter or hubby go they get a burger and baked potato and I steal a bite of their potato, or chili, but I don't touch the fries, bun, or crackers. Not that I'm denying myself, but even pre sleeve those weren't my thing. I have also ordered the "salad sized" chili. It's the one that comes with a green salad and tortilla chips. It's also in the salad options on the register, I have had to explain it at a few locations but they are ALWAYS great about it, and more than willing to help me out. I guess they figure if I can tell them how to ring it up, that I'm a regular at their chain. I like Wendy's better than any other burger place, because they do have some healthy options. We also really love Chipotle, I order a single soft taco, and just skip the tortilla. I have them do super light rice (hey I'm skipping the tortilla, so a little rice is ok, chicken is my go to, but I also like the barbacoa, fresh tomatoes, corn, and light sour cream and cheese. I don't usually finish an entire taco. And when I ask for no tortilla they make it in the container for the bowl and I end up with almost double what comes in a taco, I hate to waste food, but it doesn't reheat well, so I either give the tortilla to the hubs to go with his bowl, or I toss it. I would rather toss a tortilla than a huge pile of meat and veggies.

I read about P3's on this site just another thread. You buy them at Walmart (I'm sure other places carry them too). They are convenient little grab-and-go type containers with cubed cheese, turkey cubes and almonds (or peanuts). They have 13 grams of Protein. Oscar Meyer makes them and you find them where prepackaged lunch meats and 'lunchables' boxed foods are located in the refrigerated grocery section. I'm guessing they were intended as healthy Snacks but for us, they can be a meal on the go. No guilt, no prep, just grab and go(:

My lunch is Taco Bell pintos and cheese if I forget to bring, and am in a hurry. f I have more time, I enjoy the bowls or naked burritos from Mo's, Qdoba or Chipotle. I have meat with fajita veggies, black Beans, and usually a couple different salsas. I add guac if I'm feeling decadent (it's also a great source of potassium which helps with my leg cramps). These are usually 2-3 meals worth of food for me, but I'm a big fan of leftovers!