Numbrgirl

This is extremely helpful. Thank You. I am going for my first fill on 6/10 and have printed this out for future reference!!

I have a slight restriction and having had my first fill yet (it's coming up soon!!). I am looking forward to being able to determine the difference between filled and unfilled. I have done well with the weight loss without it so hopefully it will only accelerate it. <fingers crossed!>

I like the idea of celebrating a "dual Independence Day" - Best wishes to You!!

Jack - you are so wise.........we are fortunate to have you! Every post I read from you, in various places, is always on the money. Thanks!! I have to agree - I have already lost 20+ lbs and haven't even received my first fill yet. The band is taking away my fixation on food! Thank God.

Isn't it great we can just start over?

I got some unflavored whey protein and have been sprinkling some in my yogurt and stirring it into my nonfat milk. Every little bit helps.

Hello Elaine!! Blessings to you! It is obviously a struggle for all of us but thank God he created surgeons and guide their hands!! I love the work of the Teen Challenge organization. We live really close to a fantastic group of guys - they live in The Castle in Riverside California. Sometimes our church group or women's group has functions there - it is very nice and such a blessing to see all the guys work on their problems and turning their lives over to Christ. Hope to hear more from you!!

There is always the magic of Victoria's Secret!!

There is something to be said for actually making lifestyle changes instead of having them forced on you!!

Definitely doesn't act as the "food police" - but I am always conscious that it is there - so maybe "big brother" ??!!??!!!! 8-)

Yes - thedailyplate.com is terrific. I have used it for almost a full week and I love, love, love it!! I am always trying to keep a list of items that I eat and a running tally of the cal/carbs/protein. I start the little journal and then soon fall out it........But with this, I can log on, pop in, add my stuff or look up any items that I am thinking of eating and instantly have the info. I also keep track of exercise and any feelings I might want to note. How terrific. I would recommend it to anyone!!

Because I have my first fill on Tuesday 6/10 and I want the office to be surprised with my loss!!

definitely share - I will be checking back!! Good Luck!!

My doctor only gives fills at the 6 week mark so I am scheduled for June 10th. Thanks for the insight on what to expect. I am glad the doctor allows you to drink and effectively try it out very going home and encountering the too tight symptoms on your own. I have done well without a restriction and I am really looking forward to the first fill - first time into the land of the unknown!! 8-)

I don't physically crave it - even though I was a Pepsi addict for years - but when I see it sitting on the grocery store shelf - I remember the taste and the sugar high it gave me. I can honestly say I haven't had a soda since April 29, 2008 and I really don't miss it all. I have no intentions of picking another one up. Although I did read somewhere that if you really want a soda you can open it up - put it in the frig and let it go flat (personally that sounds gross to me) but I guess if someone is desperate. My life is so much better without it!!

I think we waited about 2 weeks to engage in the "wild thing" - my husband is very patient and sweet - I did ask the doctor during my consult how the band affected sex - I think he was surprised with my question! At first he said "it doesn't" but then he came back a few questions later and said "well, I guess if you lost 50 lbs it might really spice it up!" Don't need no "spice" but it would be nice to be able to fit into a cute little sexy teddy!! 8-)

No way - at my banding I had 167 lbs to lose to be within normal BMI range and my doctor was very accommodating with my choice. He performs both procedures. I asked him if he would rather the heavier patients go with the bypass and he said - no I want them to do what they are comfortable with. Of course he told me that individuals "typically only lose 40-50% of their excess weight" but I have seen testimonies on this board that tell me differently. You have to do what is right for you - if you have to - find a different surgeon. I am a self-pay and definitely know I made the right decision!!

I have experienced such an escalation in energy - that is one of the things that first amazed me about having the band. Prior to the band I was sluggish and feeling so lethargic. I hope you can find a definitive answer and share it with the rest of the board - I certainly don't want my energy level to disappear!!

Even now if I forget or swallow too fast - I can feel it in my chest - oh the pain!! I can't imagine what it going to be like when the fill is in place............

That's good because my hair is already thin!! I make sure and pop the chewable vitamins everyday!!

something about the whole re-routing of the intestines just didn't fit well with my psyche.....I know they have made drastic improvements since the 90's but I have heard too many horror stories and then there is always the "gaining it back" issue. I am comfortable with the band and see such a benefit. Slow and steady wins the race.

I don't get my first fill untill next week but I have made a point to try to train myself to chew, chew, chew which is a strange feeling and difficult habit for me to put into practice............. eventually I just get tired and move on to other things...........!!

Thanks for the invite!!! Room is great ~ Unfortunately for me.....boobs are one of the first things to go!! 8-( Do you think it is fair to have a TOM when your husband has had the snip snip?? 8-)

It is difficult to get up off the couch and get started but my husband and daughter bought me a new IPOD for Mother's Day and I have loaded some sings with great beats and just make my way to the treadmill.........I can't sit down to do something beforehand or I never make it to the exercise plan. I can fill my body slowly toning up and remembering where the muscles are..........it is a good feeling. I just hate the sweat!!! (I know, I know it's good for me!!)

Such good responses!! I agree!! We must just pick ourselves up with a resolve to do better with the next choice that we must make. No sense in wallowing in the self-pity................