JoannMarie

I am concerned, because I think you are feeling guilty about something you have already acknowledged, and for which you have asked forgiveness from God. Continuing to feel so guilty may mean you have not really turned away from it. I believe God has forgiven you if you have asked him to - in your heart you know this to be true. You have done an amazing job of working toward that healthy body God wants you to have. Please try to concentrate on the positive results you have had. If you have moved away from the food guidelines that go along with banding, make a commitment to begin again. Concentrate on your Protein, portions, exercise, Water intake. Commit to the program all over again. Your idea about "something to do" while you are watching TV in the evening - it's a great tool! Work on the bible study materials for the class you just started. Try a new hobby or pick up an old one, such as knitting, crocheting, sewing, reading, scrapbooking, etc. TV content is not the best stuff filling your head and the food commercials can really be tough to take. Be selective about how you feed your brain. I hope I don't sound preachy! I deal with the same issues. It helps me to think about them in a constructive way, and writing it all out is helpful for me. You are an amazing person to accomplish what you have already done. Please tell me your first name, as you are in my prayers.

Hmmm. I think Isuza has an ax to grind... Maybe just another name for a person who is no longer welcome on LBT because of unfounded and inflammatory posts? I did my research, too. My doctor originally said it was my choice - no particular recommendation of either band over the other one. But when it came time to make the decision, she was leaning strongly to Realize because of her experience with the band and the patients who were having success with it. I've had mine since early December, losing at an acceptable rate, NO problems with any foods, 5cc so far with reasonable restriction - I am happy with it. I have absolutely no problem with either of these bands. Both of them do the job if the patient follows the guidelines provided by the companies and the doctors. There can be risks or problems with both of them, too. That is the nature of any medical procedure. Do your research - find a surgeon who has a good reputation/track record, talks to you and gives you guidance through the long term process - and make your decision based on the facts learned through your research and your doctor's recommendation. Isuza - with all his/her hyperbole - is doing damage to Allergan a lot more than J&J. That is not fair to either company.

Judging from your tickers you are all losing pounds faster than I am. I am really not concerned about losing a little slower - I know it took a long time to put it there and it will probably take a while to get it off. I'm actually down about 27 pounds since pre surgery diet, and I am pleased with that loss. I have been doing my aerobics for exercise, but not as consistent as I could be with it. My arthritis in right knee and foot has been acting up with weather fronts going through, and I have just not been up to stressing it further. That is part of the Catch22 I've been dealing with for a long time, and the pounds off will help me increase the exercise - I'll get the circle going again... A good - healthy - day to everyone!!

There was a news story last week about research showing the number of healthy 90-year-olds has increased amazingly in the last 20 years or so, believed to be due to emphasis on healthier eating and exercise as we age. Lucky US! That gives us an extra 20-30 years to enjoy our slimmer, healthier bodies. And that is the key - enjoy ALL of your years. I guess that's why I don't worry in case I turn out to be a slow loser. What's the rush? Every pound lost is a pound healthier and I intend to make the most of them. I wish this had been available to me years ago but it wasn't. I am blessed to have this opportunity now and very thankful for it. Best of everything to all - eat healthy and get in some exercise today!

I have noticed my restriction seems to go away about a week after a fill (had 2 so far). I've been reading some other threads that tell me it takes more than 2 or 3 - some have not had "good" restriction until about the 4th or 5th fill. My surgeon says she can't put in too much, or the sudden difference will be much to tight and I won't be able to get anything down, so they have to take it in steps. My first fill was 3cc, second was 2cc. I go in next Monday for my 3rd fill. I don't feel much restriction now, and weight loss has stalled again. I logically know all this - but I still feel discouraged tonight. Tomorrow will be better... Everybody - have a good week, eat healthy and exercise.

Yes - my SIL is Army. They have been in country for about 1 1/2 years, will be reassigned this summer. It looks like they will be posted in the States. Army life is old hat to SIL, but DD is new to the whole thing - they married in April 2006 and she moved from successful career to Army Wife. She likes it and is very happy being fulltime wife and mommy. They miss home a lot - having babies makes a difference. DH and I are looking forward to the visit - but not the long flight! From our door to theirs will be almost 24 hours with a few hours of layovers in Denver and San Francisco, and then a 10 hour flight to Seoul. I hear some people have tighter restriction during and after flying - have you experienced that? I'm a little concerned about it.

I had 3cc with the first fill, and 2cc with the second fill last week - so a total of 5cc. My doctor has not said what the next fill or subsequent fills will be, but I assume smaller amounts as we go along. Next date is Mar 2, then again Mar 20. DH and I are leaving in early April for several weeks in Korea - our DD and her hubby are expecting their second little boy in April, and have a 2 year old - so we will be busy helping with the new baby adjustments. Doc and I are making sure I don't have a fill too close to travel dates in case I need to ease back a little. I don't think they do this surgery in Korea, so I'm just a little nervous about that. I'd rather have less of a fill and just be careful with food - than to have any problems while there.

Good to hear from you, Skittles. I think you are entitled to that nap if you feel like it! I'll be 67 in a few months - don't often take a daytime nap yet, but I like to sit down and read in the afternoon. I'm feeling good and have pretty decent restriction after the second fill a week ago. Funny, though - both times it has been best in the first few days, then seems to ease up some. I am proving to be a sporadic loser as usual - will stay the same for a week or more, then lose a couple of pounds. I am hopeful the losses will not stall, but every time I have one of those slowdowns, I start to worry about it. It's hard to remain confident in the ultimate outcome. I don't mind the week part, but when it gets to 1 1/2 or 2 weeks I feel like I am losing ground, not losing weight! I just keep up my exercise program and am careful with my food - and try not to think about it. My doctor wants to do at least 2 more small fills in the next 6 weeks. DH and I are going to Korea to visit with our DD and SIL - and be there for the birth of their second little boy (helping to take care of the 2 year old). We're leaving in early April, and I will be gone a month. Doctor wants to make sure I have a fill about 3 weeks before I leave, then see how things are going when I return in May. She has a good plan for me - the more I get to know her the better I like her. It's good to hear you are doing so well. Congrats!!

I did not get a lot of restriction with that first fill, but the second one has been much better. I know sometimes it takes several to get where you want to be, and for many people it is necessary for them to have small fills periodically for the whole weight loss period. Glad to hear you are doing well after these fills. I was told to be back in 3 weeks, so I will be there ready for that needle (esp the first one that numbs me!) I am definitely a needle-wimp...

It can be so frustrating to work with the billing people AND the insurance people. The trick is finding someone who cares whether your problem is solved or not... I hope you find your sweet spot soon - it will save a lot of frustration for you.

Sue in NE - you are doing so well. 29 pounds! That is really great - you are off to a good start. Glad your insurance problems have been resolved. I had my second fill today and can tell a big difference tonight. Very satisfied with about a cup total of food, and I could eat a small amount of lettuce in a salad without having problems as some folks do. I hope this fill gives me a jump start - by my scale I lost 5 pounds in January 3 of that in the first week. I will take that and smile - but I would like to do better than that this month. 2BBanded - I am glad you finally got your date back! It's only a couple of weeks away and that time will really go fast. Best of luck to you - keep us posted.

Hi Marilyn, That's exactly what I am doing - measuring my portions. I really try to stay with that, but restriction is not great after my first fill, and I've gone over a couple of times. I'm also trying to log my food, but that gets really frustrating at times. Dr said to keep my intake at 1/2 to 1 cup per meal. I may be a little over that some meals, but mostly sticking with it. It's me, though, not the band - yet. That's okay - I know it's going to have to be me doing 75% of the work anyway. I have my 2nd fill this Friday and hope I have a bit more help from the band. I started my exercise CD last week and doing well with that. It is a Wii game called My Fitness Coach and I like it a lot. I plan to get the Wii Fit also, but the Fitness Coach was just the cost of the game and available. Wii Fit is hard to find and more expensive. I do think it will be worth the cost, though, as it has a lot of activities available. Fitness Coach is a workout program that is tailored to your own fitness level as far as time and intensity is concerned. I plan to do both programs, as they are different in the exercises available. I hope you continue to do well.

Hi Clempier, I try to keep busy - go for a walk if weather permits, which can be an issue this time of year. Read a book or magazine. Give yourself a manicure. Call a friend on the phone. Go shopping (can be hazardous to your checkbook). I have several hobbies that involve handwork - knitting, crocheting, quilting. Those hobbies help a lot because you are keeping your hands busy and if you are knitting or sewing you are not eating. We have a new grandson due in April and he has an knitted baby afghan and several knitted hats (so far). Fabric for his quilt is on the work table ready to be cut and sewn. His big brother received a couple of knitted hats recently, and will have a new hooded sweater soon. I always have a scarf on needles - just in case I am between projects and need something to pick up and knit. (Wow - I must have a lot of cravings!!) Go to LBTalk when you have a craving. You will not only forget the craving, you will receive a lot of support and answers to questions. Draw, paint, write, make jewelry - in other words do something creative. If you don't have any hobbies like that, go take a class or find someone who knits or quilts and ask them to teach you. Knitting is not hard to learn, equipment does not have to be expensive, and yarn does not have to cost a lot either (although it can...). There are just a couple of basic stitches and you can eventually do any pattern with those stitches as you gain experience and want to try something new. In other words - get your mind (and hands) off the craving and busy with something else. I allow myself a snack in the evening because that's when I like to snack - sugar free pudding, sf fudgecicle, etc. But most evenings I get busy with something else and forget all about it. It's been working for me. Always plan your Snacks in your daily allotment of food/calories. Whatever "evil" you think you will crave the most, find a sugar free and low fat substitute to use as a snack at the time you will most crave it. Stick with your plan, using the above techniques to help you stick with it. Best of all and most effective - pray about it. p.s. I am so glad you are enjoying the book. I sure found it helpful.

WOW! $4000 for a fill??? Ddem, you would be ahead of the game if you flew to somewhere outside your area for fills and threw a little vacation in at the same time! That is only $1000 less than my surgeon charged for my SURGERY! I'm not sure what she charges for fills, as my ins is paying for them and I have not received the paperwork yet, but I think it is in the $200-$250 range. That is a lot of money for 15 minutes of time and the expertise of sticking a needle in a port.

Hope, so glad you are feeling better. You probably won't need those pain meds very long, but they sure help when you need them.

By all means, Hope - call your doctor about the pain. However, it sounds like the port area and could be associated with the attachment of the port to the muscle tissue. My band is the Realize band, and the port attaches with metal "clips" - at least that is how it was described to me. It took a while to heal in place and bothered me for several weeks with diminishing pain. I also felt like I had to support that area because of a pulling sensation. I can still feel it if I bend over just so or lean over a table, etc. No matter how the port is attached, it seems to cause pain for just about everybody during the first weeks. Hopefully that is what is causing your pain. It's easier to deal with if you know what it is and that it will heal and go away... God Bless!

Hope09 - I hope you have had a successful surgery and will be back to visit with us soon. Take your pain meds if you need them, walk as much as you can, sip Water and follow doctor's orders. God Bless!

Hi Apple, It's good you are getting back to the basics. I am new to all this, just banded on Dec 4, so I probably don't have a lot of seasoned advice, but I will certainly pray for you - that you are successful in getting back on track with food and exercise. I noticed you have a ticker about Water aerobics. I think water aerobics is great, but maybe just for something new you could try adding a different exercise. The elliptical trainer or recumbant bike (or both) might give your body a little jolt of something extra. Think about adding a new exercise element to your routine without giving up your water aerobics. Just a thought. Also, there is a mentoring section on LBTalk. I go to a thread started by IndioGirl - I'm here to help... She is a great motivator, successful bandster who is great at helping the rest of us achieve our goals. Read some of the posts and just jump in - you will find a lot of support from the friends there. God Bless!

Hi Vickie, I had my first fill on Jan 9 - after checking to see how I was feeling my surgeon deadened the area of the port and all I felt was some poking and prodding as she manipulated the port to find the right spot. It absolutely did not hurt and was over in just a few minutes. She had me drink some water which went down okay, told me to have mushies the rest of the day and take it easy the next day - patted me on the back and was out the door. My restriction is pretty good, I have had no trouble with any foods and I'm able to stop eating when I am just satisfied, with no hunger between meals. My next visit is early Feb and she is planning another fill then depending on how I am doing. So far so good. I stay away from sugars most of the time - has never been a huge temptation for me, thank goodness, but I notice if I have sweets I can continue to crave them, so I just don't start that merry-go-round. I had not heard that about wine. I have had a couple of small glasses of wine since surgery. Here again, I've not been one who drinks often, but I do enjoy a nice dry wine now and then when we go out.

Oh Clempier - thank you so much for your kind words. I know I had so many questions all through the process, and by the time I had the surgery I knew a lot about what to expect because I had people I could ask and recommended reading that anwered a lot of questions before I had even thought of a question like that... I am so grateful to God for leading me on this path and walking with me each day. I'm happy to help in any way I can. That's what He does - and it's a pretty good model to follow. Let me know if you like the books when you've had a chance to read them. God bless you.

Hope - you will be in my prayers on Sunday (will it be Sunday here???). I guess I'll start on Saturday and continue till Monday - just to be sure I'm covering the necessary day! LOL! Our daughter is married to an Army officer and they are posted in Korea now - I always have to think about what day it is for them, not to mention what time it is so I don't call them in the middle of the night! I pray you have a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. Sip water and walk. Take your pain meds when you need them (if you need them). You will be feeling better in a matter of days. I did not have a lot of pain, most people don't and some go back to work in a few days. I am retired, so my work consists of going to the sewing machine. No problem! Good luck to you.

Clempier and Hope09 - I hope the book is helpful to you! I found it to be very readable and full of helpful information. The author is a bariatric nurse and a banded patient herself, so she knows her stuff. Another book I found helpful is "The Emotional First + Aid Kit" by Cynthia L. Alexander, PsyD. It deals with all aspects of WLS, but goes into the psychological situations many patients deal with, particularly emotional eating, boredom, dealing with people who are not supportive, etc. My psychologist recommended this book and told me to buy it because I would want to refer back to it on occasion. Many books are available through the library, but these two are on my shelf for future reference. They are paperbacks, so not expensive - that's a big plus!! I bought both of them through Amazon.com. I hope things move ahead for you soon. Meanwhile, try to keep your weight under control and don't go too crazy with the "last meal" feelings you might have. I had a lot of those, but tried to keep it to a minimum of a once a week treat. I really did not need to worry about it, because there is very little I have actually given up - still enjoy food, but in much smaller quantities. I like to eat healthy anyway, and not much of a dessert eater. Good luck!

Wow! Some encouraging words from this thread! I saw a post from Skittles not long ago on another thread. She was still doing well. I am down 22 pounds since surgery, and very happy with that, so I'm off to a good start. I've had one fill, but do not feel any more restricted. That's okay, though, as I am satisfied on a lot less food and have been eating my measured amounts and stopping. So far that is working. Advantage is I have had no PBing or other unpleasant issues to deal with. Maybe I should just keep it this way! Probably not, as I want to keep the losses going and may become complacent about amounts of food going in. I can tend to go that direction... I'm due for another fill on Feb 6th - hope to lose another few pounds before that comes up. I've been using the CPAP machine sporatically lately. I honestly believe I sleep better without it. It is still so uncomfortable on my face. I've tried several different delivery systems and they all drive me crazy. I always take it off sometime in my semi-sleeping state because it is laying beside me in the morning with the machine merrily running along. Somehow I don't see how that is helping the quality of my sleep! You all are doing so well. Congratulations on your wonderful losses! I love reading the posts of successful banded people. You are all so positive - and I am a firm believer in the power of the positive in my own life. I just received the notice of my class reunion coming up this summer. I am thrilled to know that I will be going and seeing old friends - but carrying a lot less weight with me. This is just more incentive to dig in and make it work.

I will share what I have heard on other LBTalk threads about hair loss. Several have said their docs attribute hair loss to not eating enough Protein. Another said her hairdresser believes it is because you may not be getting enough fat in your diet. Try adding protein, and be sure you are getting healthy fats - like olive oil, canola oil - in your daily diet. It does not take a lot, but you need some fat. Avocados and nuts are a good source of healthy fat, plus the avocado has Fiber, and nuts have both fiber and protein, along with the healthy fats. Keep the nuts to around an ounce or so. I usually have a few every evening as a snack, but you could also add chopped nuts to yogurt or fruit. I was banded in December and have not yet had a hair loss issue (may be a little early for that). Try not to worry about the speed at which you lose weight. Easier said than done! I keep reminding myself this band is not going anywhere, I am on a downward path, and if it takes a little longer than I like - it's still going toward the goal of a lighter and healthier me. Eat lots of protein (slow losers who have been successful recommend that), eat healthy and exercise. You will make it to goal... Carol - try tracking your food intake in a journal or on fitday.com or dailyplate.com. If you are not getting enough to eat your body believes you are starving and becomes extremely efficient at saving every fat cell you have ever owned to prevent starvation. Ask your doctor, but I believe you should be getting at least 800-1100 calories a day, mostly protein, then vegies/fruit, and "white" carbs like potatoes or rice seldom. This is what my doctor recommends - check to see what your doctor says... Good luck!

LadyRoz - Good for you! Congratulations on your great weight loss. It is very inspiring for me to read the posts like yours. There are many who have been very successful at this and I appreciate so much hearing from you. God Bless!