Vegangirl

you could cook it with some vegetable broth, ginger, and lemon grass.

We rarely go to restaurants but when we do they are usually vegan friendly. If there's a special occasion and it's at a place that is more on the unhealthier side, we eat before we go.

seitan is a great meat alternative, just watch how much sodium is added. I prefer Spirulina overall, it's high in protein and gives a boost in energy.

Hi, how about making a stew? It would be more filling than a can of soup, you could control the sodium, and it would be more healthier.

Mine are toasted soy nuts and dark green veggies with a splash of liquid aminos

Hi and welcome to the band life. Congrats on your new journey. My advice is to listen to whatever your doctor and nutritionist tell you, especially when it comes to which foods you can and cannot eat. There's a wealth of information from this site but bottom line...always consult with your doctor!!!! One thing that I did a couple days before my surgery was made a huge pot of homemade vegetable broth. I let it cool off then poured it into some ice cube trays and put them in the freezer. Whenever I got hungry I popped a few in a cup and microwaved. Good luck.

Hang in there, it will soon pass. If there's someone who could cook when you are having your moments might help. If not, try drinking some liquids before you start cooking or cook things that they like but you don't. :-)

Organic ginger does wonders for gas. If you can't find organic just get regular, cut up a slice and steam it with some tea. I hope you feel better soon.

Congrats!!!! I am happy for you. Remember to keep hydrated and take mini walks to help move the gas.

This rice is also yummy when cooked with lite coconut milk and a little bit of maple syrup. It's a nice treat that also gives you protein. :-)

I don't eat white rice but last night I made some forbidden rice (black rice). I soaked it for about six hours and cooked it in my rice cooker with some light coconut milk, garlic and yellow curry powder....add some tofu and this dish is loaded with protein.

My doctor told me I was restricted from anything carbonated, therefore I have not had any since my surgery. I used to love RC but my band is more important than drinking something that can damage the bands effectiveness.

My band seems to be tighter when it hits mid-terms and finals. My doctor said it's due to stress, so we avoided doing fills during those times.

My band is very sensitive to changes in altitude. Just as some people tend to swell during flight, the abdomen can as well. If you find that altitude puts pressure on the band don't eat an hour before flight and take it easy for the next 24 hours. My husband and I fly frequent and this works for me. I also have to remind myself to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while we travel. Hope you feel better soon.

I'm agreeing with lellow. We have had our bands for over five years and our weight loss goals have been met. We all have been where you are and know what will/can happen if doctor's orders are not followed. I did the exact same thing, but I was two yrs post-op. I went out for dinner later that evening of my fill and had an enchilada, later that night my tummy was cramping. I had to return to my doctor's office the very next morning. He took out my fill to let my stomach rest and told me if I did this again he would be referring me to another physician. He then gave me a 20 min lecturer about following his orders. To this day I never did that again. This site is great for advice and sometimes to vent, without any drama. I wish you best success on your journey.

I pretty much stay away from bread but my family loves Daves Killer bread. Once in a great while I will toast me a slice.

I did not need any skin removal after my WL, but I also am very active, if I'm not running I'm biking, and mix it up with Pilates or yoga. Do you have some type of workout plan using your arm muscles? Best wishes!!

My husband and I have had this conversation before. I have maintained my weight for the past three years. I now only have about 4cc in my band to allow raw veggies to digest properly. I completely agree with doing a trial run first. For me, I have decided to keep my band in. I went through a lot to get my weight to where I am happy with it. I like the comfort of knowing the band is still there if I need it

A new beginning for you!!! Take time to heal and enjoy all the wonderful advice on this site.

Congrats with getting a surgery date. This is just the beginning of your LB journey, this is the best place to find support. Keep us informed.

I also was unable to eat chicken. It became where it didn't matter how I prepared it, it was hard for me process. I have not eaten any meat in quite a while, but I do remember ground meats were easier.

Yes, if there's nothing wrong why mess with it, especially if you are already in the green zone. Congrats on having only 50 to go!!!

Hi, I agree with Missy. You do have to work towards a healthy eating plan, as you get familiar with your band you will realize there are just some types of foods that will hurt to eat. For me it is fried foods and foods that contain a lot of sugar. Good luck with your journey!!!!

I think you made a wise choice, enjoy your vacation!!