Numbrgirl

Every morning and once in a while right before I hop into bed for the evening. I hear some advise to do it and others advise against it - but it is something I have done all my life and have no wish to break out of it. I think it helps to keep me on track and informed about me. When I go away and there is not a scale available it is no big deal.......but once I get home it's right back on again............ 8-)

I am staying on plan because it boost my confidence and helps me get even closer to my goal!!

So encouraging to hear from a long-term banded individual!!! I totally agree with FDILJN - Your body will tell you what is best for you. It is really difficult not to get caught up in all the acceptable norms that society sets for women. I don't want to be super model thin - I want to be healthy, strong and athletic. In the past 155 has been ideal for me and this is about 10 lbs over the insurance charts. I am working to get back there and then live to maintain it.

Muscle Milk is a great source of protein. It is what I currently drink. I was just looking for something to sprinkle in other foods that don't have such a high protein count.

Thannk You!

Where do you buy the unflavored protein powder? What brand?

Yes my fill is coming up on June 10 - I keep wondering exactly what to expect - my weight loss has been fairly decent without it - I am hoping that it only enhances it - I have done my best to follow the rules even though there is presently no fill.........

Where are you in LA?

I started at 322 but I must be taller than you!! 8-) Call it loss envy!! No, I am just trying to glean as many tips and secrets I can as I pick up the pace on my journey. Considering that you are 10 lbs out do I get a handicap? Enjoying my new outlook and I can feel myself walking a bit taller and I've lost in my saddle bag area because the chairs aren't quite as snug (though still snug...) as they used to be!! It is rough for me on the knees too because of all the weight - I just started exercising again this week. Oh the sweat! and I have to wash my hair......and it takes me a long time to dry it....... and.......and........ 8-) I keep telling myself I have to do it so I can out do the "normal statistics" of 40% of excess weight......I know that 100% is possible!!

GDF - what are you doing for exercise? Why has your scale moved 10 lbs more than mine?????!!!!!!! 8-)

I have my first fill schedule for June 10 - I often expereince the same as GDF - I get to a certain point and then I am full. I think I even experienced a real life PB moment recently at my sister's wedding while eating some fish and veggies.....Now everyone seems to say those don't come until after you are filled.......but this was a real as it gets. I started getting hot and flushed and wondered if I should run to the restroom! I took a few deep breaths, had a sip of water and thankfully, it began to subside. I can't imagine what it will be like when I have a fill!!! 8-)

Wow Webbgirl - what success!! Congrats! What are you doing right? Please share!!

Fortunately my husband was very supportive - but was a little anxious as the surgery came closer. Now after being banded for 30 days, I am so happy that I have taken this step towards a better life. I was a self-pay and each time the scale moves down, I don't mind making a payment!! My energy level is better, my mood is better and even though it hasn't been an "incredible" amount of weight yet - I can feel my self-confidence and outlook shaping up right along with me.

The one where comments are allowed and then deleted after a few days.....sorry!!

yes!!! do you know where it is?

Does anyone know where I can find the thread that is PICS ONLY - I stumbled across it once and haven't been able to find it again! This board is soooooooooo big!!! 8-)

Heather - thanks for mentioning that......... I have also given up sodas too - being a major Pepsi addict - it is nice not to have that in my life anymore........... so much better to drink Water or other non-carbonated beverages. It is definitely a lifestyle change!

You will ultimately have to decide for yourself. I think it is a wonderful opportunity and brilliant medical tool. I was banded 4/30 and am down 20lbs - I was concerned about being able have to have a glass of wine but since I have been banded I have enjoyed a glass of wine and had a very refreshing margarita over the Memorial Day holiday. Obviously alcohol can be a hindrance to weight loss so it is wise not to abuse it and too much alcohol also brings on the munchies and an "eat-with-abandon" attitude at times - but as far as being restricted it is not something that I have experienced. I just really want this weight loss and I will not allow anyone to persuade me to think or feel otherwise!!

When people talk about "stretching" what exactly does that mean?

"Praise The Lord!" = PTL So good to have such an inspirational and thankful group!!

God is good and I am so glad that the medical field has made such strides in this area............helps me to have the self-control that is so necessary in life.

I understand that 1-2 lbs a week is a healthy loss - granted we would all like to see it at 10-15 lbs.....My initial reaction is why would someone want to go through the surgery if they were not willing to really work hard at achieving the goal - which would include the food restriction/sacrifices and exercise? Obviously everyone has their own outlook and coping mechanisms but I think it would be a terrible waste of time and money not to do whatever it takes.

I have no regrets whatsoever. I am going into my 4th week banded today and have so much more energy and a much more healthy mental outlook already. I am looking forward to my first fill and what the addition of exercise back to my life will bring. Wish I would have taken the steps to have it done sooner.

I think the doctors are conservative so as not to inflate high hopes for a swift and immediate weight loss. I have read this board extensively in the last 5 weeks and I have seen wonderful success stories that far exceed the 50% quote. I think it is all about how devoted and determined one is. I spent so much money over the last 15 years on various weight programs, medical tests, not to mention the time spent in meetings and traveling to various locations. I will simply not be happy with the 50% and will one day surpass this typical expectation. I wish I would have spent the money (I am a cash pay) years ago and would have been so much further along. In addition to the weight not have to worry about all the other potential negatives like high blood pressure, diabetes, pain in joints, etc. All of it can go!! 8-)

Confused.......why wouldn't the fill be there? Did it leak out? Never went in? I have my first fill on 6/10 and am curious what to look for.... so many here say the first fill doesn't make any difference and I would find that a little disappointing.........