BakoGal

Hello Gaby- I was banded in Bakersfield over two years ago, with what I feel is good success. Can I answer any questions for you?

Laughing Cow Low Fat Cheese. It comes in pre-measured triangles. 35 calories each. It is a great substitute for cream cheese and can be mixed with seasonings as a topping for chicken, potatoe, bread, or broiled on top of veggies. I like to saute mushrooms with garlic and a splash of white wine. Stir in a wedge or two of the Laughing Cow cheese and it is very satisfying.

I buy a lot of the the boneless, skinless chicken breasts that come frozen an a package from Costco or Sam's club. I have found that if you put the frozen breast on the grill, over indirect heat, and cooked slowly that the meat is very tender and moist. I season the meat about halfway through cooking with salt, pepper and a little garlic powder. Right before removing from the grill I add some bar b que or grilling sauce. cook it in and it has lots of flavor, and is very satisfying.

Laughing cow lite cheese (35 calories in a wedge) with few low fat triscuits and salsa. Sometimes I subsitute the salsa with Simply Fruit (no sugar added) jam.

Are there any "symptoms" of a flipped port? Was there pain or discomfort? Or did you just discover the flippin thing during your fill appointment?

Yes. I read the book and I followed some of the ideas to loose 20 lbs pre banding. Acutally, I think it really made me more aware of head hunger during those months pre banding. Thought I did not count calories I just stopped eating when I was not hungry and savored my food more...just as I do now.

Maryland- How long have you been banded? I am curious how soon after banding that you were able to drink carbonation?

5.8 I wll be happy WHEN I get to 170 which puts me in a size 12 or 14. I think I will be happy to be below 170, but I can't even remember when I weighed less that that!

I have flown 4 times in the last week with no problems. Didn't feel any different than flying "pre" band. I ate and drank on the plane also.

What are/were your favorite Non scale Victories? Especially the surprise victories.... Here are a couple of mine Clothes that were way too small are now way too big.- I tried on a pair of too small pants, hoping that I could at least get into them, only to find out that they were too big to wear! Total happy dance. Crossing my legs again!

Next month you should be the first one to the meeting...an leave the armless chair for someone else!! Congrats on your NSV!!!!!

No real pre op diet. I lost about 20 lbs on my own prior to surgery. Just liquids a couple of days before my surgery.

If I am really thirsty during a meal I take a few sips and I fell that I get more full with a drink. I have never felt that the food was "washed" out of my pouch nor had hunger come back more quickly. I spoke with my Dr. about it, and though he does recommend no drinking 30 min before and after, it can be different for everyone, but you have to pay attention to how you really feel. I also can depend on what you are eating. Softer foods can get washed out more quickly, while more dense foods won't move as fast.

Gas -X strips or tablets for Gas.... they were my saving grace!!! Good luck!