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@@Ms. Reid
"Deal with it Babe"?
Thank you for that very well articulated response regarding the correlation of smoking Marijuana and it's effects on post Bariatric surgery patients. I also appreciated your well thought out response and obvious expertise about the dangers of addiction and addiction transfer post WLS. Your critical thinking skills must be the envy of all your peers.
I'll bet you're fun at parties.

Hi Ivona, I found this site to be very helpful as I was doing my research. I skip over any negative posts but that's just me. There are tons of successful banders here. I figured out who they are and followed them closely, asked questions and then became one myself. I love my band. I respect all the surgery choices people make and we all have more in common than not. There are a couple of sources in my signature below that were very helpful to me in understanding how the band works and how to work my band. Best wishes to you!

when i had my surgery, i was so large i could hardly walk...walking to the bathroom was nearly impossible.
i could not do anything.when i was at home, i marched in placed..2 minutes and i thought i was having a heart attack....at work, when i went to the bathroom, it was 84 steps one way. that was my exercise for about 6 months..i was so heavy, i could not do anything...the more i lost (due to me not being able to eat much) helped build my confidence..i started walking to the end of my driveway and back. thats it..and then i walked to the corner of the street...you dont have to run a marathon to lose weight..you just need to get your mind straight..so we have a weight problem..OK, we had WLS to help us..now we just have to help ourselves..somedays i dont wanna do anything but eat potato chips...my motivation is looking at my highest weight ever picture..and it was a 5x stretch skirt...i do not want to be that ever again..its either do or not...so you dont want to work out today....dont....just be careful with your calorie intake then...if you eat more calories than you burn off, you wont lose and may gain....so its vice versa....like @@finediva said...take a walk...walk down the hall and back........GREAT JOB if you do that...you can..yes you can....if you wanted to
♥

That is awesome!! I can't wait until I can make the same post!! I am 17lbs away!!

I finally made it to onederland today!!!
Starting weight - 317
Current Weight - 199.2
Feels sooooo good! Amazing journey!
Before

After

Happy Bandiversary to all that was banned with me on November 18th 2013.

I had my first fill on 11/09 and I have 4cc in my 10cc band. I'm not hungry until around 12:30 but when I do eat I can have a more than a cup, but still small portions, probably 2 cups. I'm eating slow and if I do eat too fast I feel like I'm going to get stuck ( pain in chest almost like heartburn) so I stop. Is this my "green zone"? Or am I supposed to be eating less than a cup in my green zone. Just trying to make sure I'm doing this right. I've last 3 more lbs since 11/09, yay!

Excellent article. Thank you for sharing. We can forget that we have emotions tied to many things in our lives. Even the good things can sometimes leave emotional issues that we don't realize exist.
Things like a move which could be positive for happy reasons, or having WLS to improve the quality of our lives can be emotional and tumultuous, and when we are tired or emotionally exhausted from those positive things we feel guilty about it and we tend to care for ourselves less.
I think that those are the times when we need to care for ourselves even more, to love ourselves enough to give ourselves a break, to decompress, give a little extra TLC to our body's and minds, and take a deep breath or four before jumping back into the fray again.

Alex Brecher has dubbed bariatric dietitian Elizabeth Anderson,BariatricPal.com's Reporter at Large for Obesity Week 2014. Elizabeth is attending nutrition lectures, seminars & meetings and she'll share news you can use throughout the week-- minus the scientific jargon.


Just attended a lecture on food cues and impulsivity. MRI scans showing brain activity were done on obese-prone and obese-resistant rats. The results? After two days of being over-fed, obese-prone rats had continued motivation for food. The obese-resistant rats motivation levels were nearly zero—and the effect lasted for days.
Researchers are hopeful this research translates to us humans AND that we can make positive changes. Promising changes to appetite hormones and specialized behavioral changes could be the key. Believe it or leave it, MRIs on obese-prone people showed that after just six months of exercise motivation centers in the brain are reduced!

Hi November bandsters, I am still here also, My bandster anniversary is Nov 18th 2014, I have the large band and have still not reached the green zone. I had lost 50pd but since I have gained about 5 back.
I am very proud of all you.

Hi November bandsters, I am still here also, My bandster anniversary is Nov 18th 2014, I have the large band and have still not reached the green zone. I had lost 50pd but since I have gained about 5 back.
I am very proud of all you.

Hi Nov band-mates, I am still here, trying to stay encouraged. Have lost 59 pounds since I started this journey,that includes my 2 wk pre-op loss. I read at this general site a lot at first but had to stop because everyone seemed to lose like 60lbs in 4 months,for example, and that made me too depressed since I couldn't lose that fast. I am 63 yrs old with 2 knee replacements. I will be the first to say I hate exercise and do it sporadically but also know that when I am walking,biking and swimming on a regular basis,I lose much better. I have many NSVs and am happy with what I have lost, just want to get in high gear and do better. Mt dr is not unhappy with my loss,he is very conservative with fills and I like him a lot. Glad to find this thread and will be coming here more often. Have a good day !

Hi @ smpin1176 I can't believe it's almost a year since I made the decision to get banded. My exact bandanniversary will be the 18th of this month. I'm so happy of the decision I made a year ago, I feel much better and I look much better too!!
I had my ups and downs, stalls in between but a lot was self induced, I enjoyed my summer and then it was hard to get back on track, specially when you and others can see the changes, therefore you can start thinking that you look good enough. But I know I have a way to go, 35 pounds to be exact. I don't know when I will get there but I know it will take place. In the mean time I want to commit to small goals, which includes to stay consistent when it comes to excercise and I would love to be at least 179.9 on the 18th . So let's see what happen!

Please hang in there. Please. It took me 6 fills to get to my zone....I too was all depressed and ready to give up, just last week, and low and behold I go to my doctor yesterday and I had lost 9 pounds...YOU CAN DO THIS.....Slow and steady wins the race. Talk with your doctor please don't give up...

You should get the surgery and don't worry about old friend food. If you don't get the surgery think of the alternative?
I know I am a food junkie I was over 300 pd. I like seeing the scale go down. It is all attitude you know. Tell old man food he is not going to kill you this year.

This has become my Breakfast staple http://proteinartist.com/2014/01/cheesecake-cup-11-28-grams-protein-per-4oz-serving/ yum!

I'm down another pants size. It's hard for me to believe it -- same brand of Lee long jeans. I was tight in 18s at the time if surgery, thrilled to go dow to 16 then 14 then 12 and now.....wait for it....10! Ten? Who is this? Meanwhile, scale is not budging. Who cares -- I wear size ten jeans?!!!!

Loving david, Im a little confused ? Your niece offered you bread, you turned it down, she commented you must be starving ( seeing you not eating ) . Did I miss something ? Not trying to be rude, im just confused as to what was rude ? Thanx !

I a few weeks ago I had an upper GI and found out that my band had slipped... Because I was feeling better after they took a small amount of Fluid out, they decided that they will wait and see. Last night was BAD- almost had to go into the ER, but I went to bed instead. I received a call this morning from the wls center and I have to go in tomorrow to be accessed. I am sure they are going to take out the remaining fluid from my band (I know this because of my last appointment). I know it's for the best, in the long run. I haven't even hit the "green zone" and now I have to start all over. Please, anyone that has gone through this, tell me it will be ok. Tell me you are doing better after this happened to you. I am so upset and depressed, I don't know what to do anymore!!!

While most of us knew all about the physical side of Weight Loss Surgery, many people have no idea about the emotional ride they're about to face. This article discusses all aspects of the "emotional roller coaster" from the moment you first decide on having bariatric surgery all the way up to the maintenance phase of your weight loss. It's a wild ride baby!


When was the last time you were on a roller coaster? If you’re like me, it’s been a while. In fact, the last time I was on a roller coaster I was 310 lbs and could barely fit into the seat. The restraint almost didn't go around my tummy. I was squeezed in like Cinderella’s step-sister’s foot must have tried to squeeze into that tiny shoe. Yep. I was Drizella’s foot and the coaster seat was the glass slipper. I’m sure it was a comical, if not sad and pathetic site, for those around me. It was embarrassing to me, to say the very least. But I laughed it off and went on, as I tended to do.
That roller coaster was a wild ride. It had huge climbs, steep drops, loop-de-loops, sharp turns, and at one point it feels like you’re lying on your side. Honestly, it’s a wonder I stayed in the coaster even with the restraint!! The end of the ride was abrupt - it felt like my insides were coming out of my mouth when it stopped short back at the beginning of the track. When it was over, I felt accomplished, in a way. I’d survived that coaster ride, wild and uncomfortable as it was.
Many people don’t realize that life before, during, and after weight loss surgery becomes a roller-coaster ride of it’s own. It has the huge climbs of elation and joy and excitement, the steep drops into anxiety and depression, and the loop-de-loops, sharp turns, and lying on your side moments of uncertainty, worry, and fear. Here are some of the emotional dealings that will occur before, during, and after surgery that you might not know.
1. Pre-Surgery Elation. This happens when you are finally approved for surgery. It’s going to be a reality! You are going to get a brand new lease on life! The period of life where you are having to go through diet after diet is finally coming to an end! You might tell everyone you know or you might decide to keep your secret to yourself. Regardless, you are excited and ready to go!
2. Pre-Surgery Blues. This is when you realize that you are going to have to say good-bye to one of your best friends ... food. You come to the realization that there are some favorites that you are just not going to be able to eat anymore. Depression sets in slightly, and you might even go on a food bender - similar to what an addict might do. At this point you might even question your decision to go through surgery.
3. Day of Surgery. You’re going to be going through a myriad of emotions during this time. You’ll feel excitement, anxiety, apprehension, and impatience all at the same time. You’ll be worried because, after all, it is a major surgery you’re about to go through. But at the same time, you’ll be excited at what’s about to happen. When you wake up from anesthesia, you might be scared, especially if you’re having a rough transition out of anesthesia. You might be a little confused, wondering where you are. When your body settles down a bit and you remember where you are and what just happened, you might feel a little concerned. "Did everything go okay?" "Is this going to work?" "Did I just make the biggest mistake in my life?" On the other hand, you might wake up beautifully, singing the praises of your surgeon and his/her team, excited to begin your new life. These feelings and emotions will likely cycle throughout the day as you’re getting used to the idea of what just happened and your body relaxes and comes out of shock from surgery.
4. Going Home. When you’re finally released to go home, you’ll either be excited or scared. Thoughts might rush your brain like “will I be able to do this on my own?” and anxiety might set in again. You might, again, question your decision to undergo surgery, especially once the monotony of the liquid diet phases set in. The first few days might be easy, and the next might be excruciating. You’ll be in some discomfort because of incisions and if the surgeon inflated your abdomen with gas prior to surgery (commonly done in laparoscopic surgeries), and this might heighten your doubts and anxieties. You might begin to worry about issues such as leaks, slippage, or staples coming loose.
5.The first few months. You will be going through a mourning period at some point, and for some that occurs during the first few months after surgery. You no longer are able to lean on food for emotional support, so you might feel sad. You might even go through a type of “withdraw” from food, similar to what an addict might be going through their first few days in rehab. You’ll be able to eat more some days than others, and that will lead you to worry if your surgery is working or if there’s something wrong. Some days you’ll be jealous of watching everyone around you eat foods that you once loved. Others, you’ll be glad you can’t/don’t eat those things anymore. By the time you've finished all of your phases and are on to real food, you’ll be relieved and excited, and likely worried and anxious as well. Whereas before, you were relying on liquids for sustenance, now you’re on your own and have to rely on figuring your food choices out for yourself.
6. The losing phase. From the moment you leave the hospital until you reach your goal you are considered to be in the losing phase of surgery. For the purposes of this article, we’re going to call the losing phase the time period from month 3 (about the time you transition into full solids) to the point where you reach your goal. There will be many frustrations, joys, and concerns in the months ahead. Some days you’ll forget everything you were taught about nutrition and make yourself sick on something you shouldn't have eaten. Other days you’ll be 100% on track. You’ll have moments of pride and joy, and moments of shame and weakness. You’ll revel in finding out you can eat something as simple as asparagus and despair over not being able to eat rice pilaf. You’ll finally reach your “groove” point sometime during month four or five, and things begin to go well. You’ll reach a stall or two (or five ...) and wonder if you’re doing something wrong or if you've messed up your new tummy. You’ll marvel over losing 10 lbs in one week. You’ll wonder why you only lost 2 lbs the next week. When your loss starts to slow down, you’ll worry that you’re not exercising enough, that you’re eating too much or too little, or worry that your surgery is beginning to fail. You’ll relax more when you are consistently losing, even if it has gone down to 1-2 lbs a week.
7. The maintenance phase. When you reach your goal weight, you will have reached what is called “maintenance”. This is the final stage that you will likely be in for the rest of your life. Here, you will change your diet slightly in order to not lose or gain any more weight. You will get frustrated a time or two - especially the first time you gain a few pounds. You will marvel at what you've lost, but are concerned with the way your body looks now. You will have loose skin, which may cause body image issues. If you’re single, you might notice more possible suitors paying more attention to you. You might fall from one addiction (food) into another (sex). You might also be tempted into other addictive substances or habits such as alcohol, cigarettes, shopping, or pornography. Alternatively, you may look back at your loss, as meaningful and inspirational. You might revel in the way your life has changed and be happier than you have ever been and be ready to branch out and help others succeed in their bariatric surgery journeys.
Tips on Riding the Roller Coaster
Knowing that these emotions are possible doesn't mean they will happen for everyone, and doesn't mean you can’t get through them. The following tips will help you stay on the road to success and prevent you from falling off the wagon and into an abyss of self-doubt and depression:
1. Support. This is the number one most important thing for WLS patients. Even more important than food is support. Support can be found at home, through friends and family, in a hospital or surgery center support group, or even online forums such as Bariatric Pal.
2. Stick to the plan. As tempting as it might be to veer off and eat something you’re not supposed to, stick with your doctor or nutritionist’s eating plan as closely as possible. This will ensure that you continue to lose steadily, decrease the length and amount of stalls you’ll experience, and will speed up the healing process.
3. Vitamins.< /strong> It sounds very cliche, but remember to take your vitamins! Focus on Iron and B Complex vitamins especially.A Vitamin deficiency can result in depression, physical weakness, and poor sleep habits.
4. Speaking of sleep ... Make sure you’re getting plenty of it! At least 8 hours a day for an adult! Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and (you guessed it!) depression!
5. Remember that “this too shall pass” ... These stages of emotional turmoil certainly won’t last forever. You’ll get over them as quickly as they overcame you. And keep in mind that each stage after surgery only lasts a short time in the grand scheme of things. Most eating phases last, at most, a month. After which you’re on to the next phase.
6. Keep a plan handy. Know that you will likely feel some unpleasant emotions or feelings and plan for them. Know what you’re going to do when you get upset, depressed, feel head hunger, or even feel physical pain from surgery. Have a list of friends to call at the drop of a hat, have a bottle of Water ready to sip on at all times, or have your doctor’s phone number on speed dial. Know that these feelings will likely happen at some point in time, and be ready to deal with them when they do.
7. Remember that everything you’re going through is completely normal and OKAY. It’s important and helpful to know that everyone goes through a stall at some point. Everyone has pain during the first couple of weeks after surgery. Everyone eats something they shouldn't at some point. Whatever it is you’re going through - someone else has likely gone through it!
8. Finally, DON’T GIVE UP! Remember that this is a journey. As the old saying goes, “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” There will be ups and downs on this wild roller-coaster ride. There will be twists and turns and loop-de-loops and there will be many moments when you feel like you’re laying over on your side. But, in the end, it will all be worth it. Your health, your life, and YOU ARE WORTH IT!!

Please what is a slider.

Any fill can cause enough inflammation around the stoma to cause instant and extra restriction. It happens to many people, that's why we're told to only consume liquids for 24-48 hours.
If you want to resurrect your journey you should go in for a consult, fill and visit with the nutritionist. Many things are now known about the band that were unknown 4-8 years ago.

please dont mentionfood,i just got so hungry being on here thaaat imade a bologna dn cheese sandwich for breakfast,lol.

A perfect fall chili made with pumpkin puree, ground turkey, white Beans, green chili and spices. Top this with chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, jalapeños, light sour cream, and/or reduced fat cheddar and serve it with baked chips on the side for a wonderful lunch or dinner.< br />
This is pretty mild as far as heat goes, if you want more kick use chipotle chili powder in place of the chili powder and use it according to your taste. Leftovers can be frozen, enjoy!


recipes
Servings: 9 • Serving Size: 1 cup •
Calories: 272.5 • Fat: 2.5 g • Protein: 32 g • Carb: 31 g • Fiber: 12 g • Sugar: 2.4
Sodium: 499 (without salt)

Ingredients:
cooking spray 2 lb 99% lean ground turkey 1/2 tsp olive oil 1 small onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp chili powder, to taste 2 bay leaves 2 tsp cumin 1 tsp oregano 2 (15 oz cans) white northern or navy beans (I prefer Goya) rinsed and drained 15 oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) 4.5 oz canned chopped green chile 2 cups low sodium, fat free chicken broth chopped cilantro and chives for topping salt and pepper to taste low fat sour cream for topping (optional)
Directions: You can sauté the onions and garlic if you want and brown the turkey but I just throw it all in the crock pot. Good for a cold day.