Apples2

Last time I was this weight and size was around the time I was married 30 yrs ago. I did stay within a normal BMI until my late 30's but when menopause hit, my weight increased daily. :wink2:

Thank you for the compliment, Mishay. #1. Preparedness #2. I could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. After years of dieting, losing and gaining more back than I lost, I KNEW I would have a tool to help me keep it off. #3. Determination #4. Following EVERY rule my doctor set for me. #5. Journaling my food intake which included calories, fiber, protein grams, etc. Hope this helps!:frown:

I made a lifetime change in my diet about 8 months b/4 surgery. I truly feel that it was one of the crucial steps that I made that helped me most after surgery. I was not required to do Medifast. I did do a 14 day Clear liquids.

Welcome Beth and Mishay...first of all...congrats on taking the first steps towards a healthier you. Just want to share with you that whatever hoops you need to jump through to have the surgery, it's well worth it. The most important advice I can give you is to do everything you can to prepare yourself physically, mentally and emotionally b/4 your LB surgery. I believe being prepared and well-informed plays a huge role in the success of a LB person. Follow ALL of your doc's rules. I found that the band will be there to help you but most of the "work" is up to YOU. Making good/healthy food choices, getting adequate fluids on a daily basis, documenting everything you eat to keep track of calories, Fiber and Protein intake will help you along your journey and make you accountable. I was banded June 17, 2008. I am 54 yrs old (damn) and feel as if I could run circles around any 19 yr old. Wishing you both the best. PM me with any questions you might have or ask them on this thread and I will respond.

Congrats Scotty...you deserve the recognition!!! Here's to continued success and a happy band life!

Congrats!!!! And, thanks for sharing your amazing transformation.

Anything is possible. If I could do it, so can you. Click my b/4 and after photos in my personal info. All it takes is determination and a tool to help.. Good luck!

I'm over 18 months out and have had two fills...last one was Oct, 2008. I believe I have ideal restriction. Not too tight and loose enough to still get hungry and enjoy my meals.

Been there, done that, BobbyND.... I thought that my midsection would never be in portion with the rest of my body. It was where I carried most of my excess weight and was the last to go. Even after hitting goal, it took a few months until I noticed my waist finally being what it should. As far as waistbands go...I am very long legged (34"inseam if not 34) but I am short waisted. I find the the low rise jeans work the best without causing a snuggy.

Dehydtration:tongue_smilie:

Grey Goose

Ma Ingalls

OOPS...that'd be "unrelated"

nonrelated

Diligence!

I'm 54 yrs old and have struggled with weight problems for many years. Lapband was not an easy road to take but it helped me to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's work. A person has to be very diligent in making good/healthy choices, follow the band rules set up by their doctor. We need to set our sights on our goal and work until we achieve it. And, when there are setbacks, get back to basics and restart the plan. Not always easy but doable. Good luck!

I'm in! Surgery

Hey guys...just continue to stick to your doc's menu and rules and don't look at the scale right now. Your body just went through surgery and is most likely in protection mode and most likely retaining fluids. Just make sure to get enough liquids, get your rest, make good/healthy choices with your food and you will soon see results. Take care and good luck!

Welcome and congrats on your banding and the weight you have lost so far. It really is a battle b/4 you get to the right amount of restriction for you. Sometimes it takes just 2-3 fills and sometimes many more than that. All depends on the person. Just wanted to wish you luck. :wink:

Your first step should be to try and let the shame go that you feel about this situation. It is what it is and without getting fills or having support I can understand why you are feeling the way you do. Find a doctor in your area that you can visit with and let him know what has been going on with you and inform him you want to get back on track. Also, when you do find a doc, check out if the clinic has any programs set up for after care. (Support group you can attend, nutritionist to talk to, etc.). It will take some work on your part but with proper fills and some support you can turn this around. It's never too late. PM me or email me if you would like to talk. Wishing you luck!

First of all...be careful on the Protein bars as they can become addicting. But, they are a great Meal Replacement for times when I am out and about. I have relied on them many times and even "skinny" DH eats them a couple of times a day and for Breakfast. These are some of the ones I like: Pure Protein (20gr protein)- Walmart or Amazon.com Aitkins (17gr) Walmart or Amazon.com and GNC Myoplex Lite (15gr) Same as above All of these fall into the 180-200 cal range Aitkins

There should be enough juices in the meat and the dressing to not be dry. I wouldn't worry about it at all. Another idea....google Low Fat Slow Cooker Recipes.

Btrieger...there's a thread started with some slow cooker recipes on it. See if you can find it. There's some pretty simple, but good recipes on it.

Next time try throwing a low fat bottle of Italian salad dressing over the roast. Has everything you need for flavor....don't add water.

Allie...thinking of you today. Good luck and wishing you the results you are hoping for! Take care of yourself.