nikki914

I am trying to come up with ways to thicken my Protein shakes without adding lots of calories or sugar. I know that ice makes it thicker, but I also feel that it flattens out the flavor too. I currently add part of a banana, and I know some people use a little fat-free, sugar free pudding powder, or Thick-it. Does anyone have other suggestions? Thanks!

If you are not a Greek yogurt fan, I would suggest trying a fruit flavored one as opposed to plain, vanilla or honey. The fruit flavored ones IMHO are much more flavorful and sweeter. You can use the plain in recipes to boost your protein. I agree that Oikos and Chobani are my favorites.

I like Soup and Greek yogurt a lot (and some Protein shakes) but not sure if they could be slider foods, or considered drinking with your meal. I know many of you eat them regularly - do they keep you full? Or do you eat them because at times you are too tight for more solid meals? I will check with NUT, just wanted your thoughts and experiences. Thanks!!

I am just getting to my sweet spot - I have a lot of Fluid in band but feeling good now. I am definitely eating less but was wondering which foods fill you up and keep you fuller longer. I am still experimenting and trying to figure out what works best for me but would welcome suggestions. Thank you!

It is hard for me as well. I still find myself reaching for a glass when I eat - but stop myself ahead of time. If I do not, my stomach is unhappy! My biggest issue is, since I do not drink while eating, I tend to not drink much (if at all) throughout the day and I have become very dehydrated. I have even gone so far as to put in calendar reminders for myself to drink water.

I agree, I love spicy food all the time and hotter than pre-band. They also fixed my hiatal hernia during surgery, so I think that may have something to do with it as well.

I have lost about 50 pounds since January 1. I am proud of myself but have hit a plateau (I lost much weight quickly). I have not been exercising due to family issues then laziness kicked in. My questions are: How do you know you are full? Or How do you control your portions? Do you find that exercise really benefits your weight loss?

When I get a fill, I have to do 2 days liquid and 2 mushy. Is the same true for an unfill? Or can I go right back to solid food? Thanks.

I had my 3rd fill last week. Everytime I eat, the first few bites give me a little pain and I continue eating after it passes in a minute or two. I read this as signs that I have not learned yet to eat slowly and chew. My other issue is near the end of my meal, I get the same pain. This time I stop eating. Am I getting the 2nd pain because it is the sign that I have eaten more than enough and my stomach is telling me so? Am I too tight? Is this normal? Does anyone have any thoughts? THANK YOU!

Yes, I learned this past week that this works. I got stuck during a work/client dinner. I was socializing and not paying enough attention. Generally, I can contort or straighten up and it slides through but not this time. I walked into the bathroom and did the "downward dog" bracing myself on the toilet. it was not graceful but worked automatically and instant relief. Such a strange feeling and a relief once it passes!

I am having my second fill on Wednesday and I have a work lunch on Friday - which for me still means that I am on mushies. I know to order Soup but was wondering what others would/have ordered in this situation? Thanks.

I know that may sound like an odd question but I do not have an answer. My problem is that I eat slow and take my time - but eat a good (not very small but much less than I used to) amount of food. Then about 30-40 minutes later I feel STUFFED and most times will not eat the next meal because of it. I do not feel/notice any triggers so do any of you dole out a specific amount, use time limits or any other tricks you could share? I am willing to try anything. THANK YOU!

No amount of medication or fiber did the trick for me. Oddly enough, 5 prunes a day due the trick.