KatieA

I, too, used to really enjoy beer now and then, especially when it's very hot outside. But the advice to bandsters is to stay away from ALL carbonated drinks. Once when I got some food seriously stuck, I remembered the suggestion on one Board of drinking two sips of warm Diet Pepsi to push it down --- that worked great, so it's clear to me that carbonated drinks do stretch the stomach, and I avoid them completely, for safety. I was, however, quite pleased to find out that Margaritas do not have any carbonation - YEA! - Katie 5/3/2005 Dr Ortiz

I seem to be just opposite from most bandsters; I have to eat Breakfast, but am very tight at night - possibly from the stress of work all day and because it's very hot in my house when I get home. I like microwaved eggs on weekends, with some cheese; I just got my first fill three days ago and am trying to figure out how to get lots of Protein in for breakfast. unjury shakes may be a good idea. Any other ideas for high protein breakfasts on weekdays? KatieA 5/3/2005 Dr Ortiz 238.5/ 214.5/ 150

I was banded on May 3, 2005, and absolutely cannot tolerate bread, although I tried one egg with cheese on 1/2 of an english muffin last week, and by taking really small bites was able to get that down. I was getting very hungry and my doctor suggested if I could include some very dry toast, or crackers, with my meals, it might help. After two episodes of sliming with other foods, there's no way I want to take a chance with bread. I also had a bad PB incident after gulping down some wheat thins one day --- the operative words here being "gulping" --- one of those days when I got home from shopping, tired and hungry, and temporarily forgot I was banded! Well, I remembered real quick. My doctor also said to try one or two wheat thins, with some dip (or possibly hummus) --- so I think hummus is probably good. The band has entirely changed my appetite, for which I am very grateful. KatieA 5/3/2005 Dr Ortiz 238.5/ 214.5/ goal around 160

Hi Michelle - I also had my first fill yesterday, 10 weeks post-op, but was fortunate in that it was just a tiny pin prick and I basically felt nothing. Mine was a much smaller fill, only 0.8 ccs. I'm surprised that you received so much; I also have the 10 cm Inamed band but thought the maximum it holds is 4 ccs. But I get confused about all this "cm" and "cc's" stuff. Anyhow I hope you're feeling better soon! - KatieA

I just had my first fill yesterday, July 11th, was banded May 3. I asked for a small fill because I don't want to be too restricted; he initially put in 1.0 cc, then took out 0.2 cc, for a net "fill" of 0.8 ccs. He emphasized that it's important for me to remember, and write down when I get home, the amount of the fill, even though it's in the records at his office. I'm absolutely starving today, having had only Water and a Protein drink last night and a Low-carbarnation Instant Breakfast today. I'm not swollen and feel fine, and am tempted to try something more substantial rather than sticking to Clear liquids. I forgot to ask him, during the fill, what I can eat so am trying to play it safe, but am back at work after 1-1/2 weeks of vacation and my work load is really heavy, so I'm very tired. - Katie 5/3/2005 Dr Ortiz 238.5/ 214.5/ 170

I have hypothyroidism also, and have done very well with the band, so far - was banded May 3, 2005 and am down 22 pounds. My only problem is that my levoxyl seems to make me nauseated so I have to take it after lunch. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism 10 years ago and this is the first time I've been able to lose weight. I suspect we are all very different in this regard. - KatieA