barbara465

Oh how dreadful. These fills are so fickled. I don't react until 6-10 days after a fill. I've also found that I can't tolerate a big fill, even though the barium flows right through. Time of day, weather, what you've had to drink/eat that day, etc. are all factors. Glad you got relief. Continue on liquids today to keep the swelling down. Good luck on your next attempt.

That's my symptoms when I have a spastic colon attack. Certain foods just send me over the edge and it can happen as fast as 20 minutes or as long as several hours. Since banding I don't have those episodes anymore. Every now and then I have an attack, but its usually 24 hours after the suspect food. I don't eat the foods that trigger an attack knowingly so don't know if I will still have problems. I also have auto immune issues so Carlene's list could be right on.

It's a shame that the vote got so split up and Perry won. Everyone knew it was happening, but wouldn't back out to help. Remember that Strayhorn was a Democrat turned Republican turned Independent. She wasn't going to back down to let a Democrat win. Kinky was just being Kinky. I don't believe there was any money changing hands to keep him in. I lived in several states and voting at schools has been commonplace. I agree that there should be a safer way to accomplish that and keep the children safe.

I want to confess something here in hopes it will help. We can never get "inside" someone else's brain or understand their feelings, but here I go. A year before my Dad died he started going downhill. It was little things I noticed. I lived 25 miles away. He lived alone and had a steady girlfriend. Not sure what their relationship was all about. Anyway, I would go down every week and do grocery shopping with him, clean the house, etc. I worked a full job, traveled lots, had an active social life, etc. I did my part to make him happy and to take care of him. He wouldn't let me have a cleaning service come in, he wouldn't move in with me, and generally didn't make it easy. As he got worse it became more unbearable for me. I called everyday, usually twice. If it was a good day then I felt better and relieved, but if it was a bad day I worried myself sick. I found a brand new independent and assisted living facility nearer to my home. I took Dad to the sample apartments and he seemed intrigued. We got him on the list and he started selling his tools and things. He was getting worse. I was growing tired and emotionaly not in a good place. The strain of taking care of a elder parent was draining. When it came time to finalized the apartment he refused. He wanted to stay at his home. I was at my wits end. Its hard forcing your parent to do something they don't want to do. I didn't. FInally I needed surgery and I sent my Dad to stay with my sister in Baltimore. I knew when I put him on the plane that would be the last time I saw him. He died 6 weeks later of natural causes, even though I blamed my sister. I felt relief. Relief that he wouldn't suffer anymore, relief that I wouldn't have to cope with the situation, relief that we wouldn't have to watch him go downhill, relief that I wouldn't have to force him to do or live somewhere he didn't want to. Now does that make me a bad person? Is Mr. P a bad person, or ready to jump the bones of the caretaker, just because he stated that sometimes death is not a bad thing? I know Carlene that you took care of your dying husband. Some of us are not as strong as you. It doesn't mean we loved our loved ones any less. Sorry for being so long in this post. This whole situation hits a raw nerve in me. Its not as easy always as we sometimes make our decisions seem.

Sue sorry you are having so much trouble. All of my fills and unfills have been done under fluro with a barium swallow. Its no big deal and a very easy process. They can also put a little camera on the machine and locate your port, preventing multiple stickings. Everyone is different, but there are some common traits that come up again and again. One is restriction at different times of the day, or from ne day to the next. Lots of theories why, but recognizing that you may be one that has this, you can make adjustments in your eating. Taking stock of the food in your home and getting rid of all those things that you should not eat is a first step. We all know that there are "easy" foods that will allow us to eat more than we should. The trick is to limit those foods so they don't interfere with our weight loss. Bypass to me is far more dangerous and permanent. However, that is your decision. Make sure that you give the band a chance to work and only have it reversed if you truly have given it a chance. Hard Proteins and solid foods we should be able to eat. However, any program will not work if we fill our bodies with ice cream, cakes, pies, Cookies, chips, etc. Good luck to you.

Please be careful so soon after surgery. You need to put some fear into your thought process!!! Read what can and has happened to some people who tried to eat soon after surgery. YIKES, I wouldn't want that to happen to you. The liquid stage after surgery is hard. No doubt about it. It is also a time to heal and get over surgery. Have a Protein drink, drink some hot tea, or anything that can stave off the hunger. When you move to mushies it will be easier. Don't push it. The stages of eating after surgery are there for a reason. Ease into all of this. Step away from the table if there is things on there that you can't eat and that are tempting. Good luck to you and stay strong.

Sorry to hear that you have no support. However, you can do this. Put yourself first and leave the guilt behind. Once they see your determination they may surprise you and become supportive. However, if they don't, don't let their doubt and guilt play a role in your success. Only you can agree to go on the guilt trip. They can't make you. You are in control so take it. It will be a little harder to work the program if they are not supportive. It is not impossible. You will need to look for the ones they are sabotaging your success and don't fall into the traps. We are here for you. Good luck to you

Bill, There has been much discussion about amounts of fills, how often, when you get restriction, etc. Go through some of the threads and you will find some valuable information. I go to the same facility and what I've learned about myself is that I can't tolerate big fills. I am still wide open, the fluro flows through, but if they put lots in me I am going to PB about 6-12 days later. I've seen the trend. The only times I've PB have been at the duration after a fill. No other times. I've had to go back to the surgicenter and get an unfill. They do a barium swallow first and see that it goes through. When I walked in the door I could barely get a sip of Water to stay down. Go figure. I now go for small fills at least 4 weeks a part. I would rather pay the extra money then suffer through a PB episode that lasts for days. That's no fun and I feel it does damage if left too long. The size of the band has to do with the circumference of your stomach. Several doctors have told me that the larger Vanguard is harder to fill because of all the web sections in it. In other words, when they withdraw to see how much is in the band some can stay behind. I think you will be fine with your band size. I do worry that you took such a big fill, but time will tell. Follow Spiegel's instructions for after a fill. You won't know about your restriction until you start solids. Losing some of the Fluid after the first fill is normal. If it continues then they will need to investigate where it is leaking. Good luck

All of my fills and unfills are done under fluro and include a barium swallow. What that shows is whether the barium goes down and into the stomach and how fast. That is supposed to tell the level of restriction. I've gone in for an unfill when I could barely swallow a sip of Water. The barium test was done first and it went down. Go figure. I still had them take some out and I had immediate relief. I think I'm one of the few that don't react to a fill until many days later. The fluro/barium should be used as a guide, but not the end conclusion. I personally think they all should be done this way to eliminate tubing from getting poked and getting too much restriction right away.

WOW what a hospital. Makes me want to go get my band again. My PCP had told me that Garth Davis wanted her to join them in that endeavor. I didn't understand since she is a GP, but now I see what they've done. Good luck to all of you going to that facility. It looks really nice. I think they will still practice out of the surgicenter since I didn't see the other owner physicians at the new one.

Laura, Sorry you are going through this. Hope things are getting a little better. I have found that Crystal Lite is a little harsh on my throat. You might want to ease up on it and go for the plain Water or a Protein drink. Even water down the Protein Drink if its too thick. I've tried the Aloe Vera as well, but when I'm irritated it just comes back up. I believe, like you, that some of it stays and works. Keep drinking and hopefully this will pass.

Pinkylee how wonderful! How does onederland feel? You should be so proud. I'll be there next year to join you. I don't think I can make it this year, but maybe get closer. Thanks for the receipes and suggestions for getting more fiber. I try eating creamed spinanch and I get scared a few bites into it. Its like it gets stuck or slimy or something. I think I'll try blending it so I can't see the strings. Same goes for fruit and pea pods. I think I just get scared and cause some of the problems myself. We went for a 30 minute fast walk when I got home yesterday. I can hardly move today. I had been without my arthritis medicine for a few days and maybe that's contributing to this pain. I found a new Centrium multi vitamin for those over 55 that is Wild Berry. It tastes much better so maybe I can get the two in a day the doctor recommends. Well Barbara 12 what can I say? Have a rootin tootin weekend? Hope all comes out OK. One more day of liquids and on to mushies. I can't tell about the fill, but I'm not eating as much soup as before so maybe. Time will tell as I don't react to fills until at least 6 days later.

Its great hearing from you Lucy. You have been very busy on that vacation! It puts my 30 minutes of walking tonight to shame, but I have to start somewhere. Your doing great with the band. Continued success!

Thanks for the information. I had heard that Garth Davis was building a facility so now I wonder if they have joined forces. Interesting. I like the surgicenter. Everyone is really nice there. If Spiegel drops out of the surgicenter I guess I'll be moving over to the hospital for fills. I hope he does both.

Cindy, You said that God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. What does that have to do with the "government" recognizing civil unions? We have civil marriages, but I guess that's OK? Why is religion making the laws for all? What about all the people that don't believe in the "good book"? Is it all right for them, just not the ones that believe? Oh and public displays of affection. That's OK as long as its between a man and a woman? A boy and and a girl? I've watched too many suck face in front of me in public places. I don't care who it is or what sex they are, if its in my face I don't like it. So its OK for man/woman to walk holding hands, but its not for two men or two women? Mother/daughter walk hand in hand. How would you know? Or two sisters? Again how would you know?

I'm still confused. I haven't heard of that hospital and I'm now curious. I didn't know Spiegel operated anywhere but the Surgicenter and Twelve Oaks. Is there a reason why University General? I liked the surgicenter because everyone there was lapband and it was day surgery. Is yours?

Hopefully you will find some of this information interesting. I did. I also had a discussion about the hard lump under my breast bone. As it turns out when I stand up my port is higher and its the lump. When you lay down the port is lower. I never knew it wasn't in the same place from standing to sitting. Have you?

Wise choices in Fast Food<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on">Boston</st1:City></st1:place> Market<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> This is a great first choice because you can get skinless rotisserie chicken (320-400 calories for ¼ chicken with 46 to 67 g protein; a banded portion would probably be half of this or less) and turkey (230 calories and 31g protein) and fresh steamed vegetables (50 calories)<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Wendy’s<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> The Mandarin chicken salad is 170 calories (23 g protein), but the noodles add 60, the almonds another 130, and the Oriental Sesame dressing adds a whopping 190 calories. Bringing your own low-fat dressing or not having a dressing can make a big difference. The lowest calorie dressing you can ask for is fat free french at 80 calories and a reduced fat creamy ranch with 100 calories. A small chilli is 220 calories (17 g protein). The five piece chicken nuggets have 220 calories (10g protein). The ultimate chicken grill sandwich is 360 calories (31 g protein), but if you only eat the chicken filet, it goes down to 120 calories, 23 g protein.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Burger King<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> The 4 piece chicken tenders have 170 calories only 9 g protein, but the dipping sauces vary from 40 calories for barbeque to 140 calories for ranch. The tendergrill chicken caesar or garden salads are 220 and 230 calories (31 and 32 g protein) respectively with the dressings ranging from 110 calories for border ranch to 270 calories for honey mustard. Watch out for Whoppers which go from 670 to a whopping 1230 for a triple. The lowest calorie sandwich is a small fire grilled hamburger at 290 calories (15 g protein). The lowest breakfast was a croissan’wich with egg and cheese with 300 calories (12 g protein).<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> McDonalds<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> The lowest calorie sandwich here is the mcchicken at 370 calories, 15 g protein; take the bun off to lower the calories and carbs. A better choice is the four piece chicken mcnuggets at 170 calories, 10g protein. The packages of barbequie, honey, hot mustard or sweet n sour sauce will add another 45-50 calories. The caesar salad with grilled chicken has 220 calories, 30 g protein, but the dressings vary from 40 for vinaigrette to 190 calories for the caesar dressing. The best choice for breakfast is scrambled eggs with 190 calories, 15 g protein. The egg mcmuffin or sausage burrito are both 300 calories, 17 or 13 g respecitively. The apple dippers with low fat caramel dip have 100 calories. Watch out for the drinks – a small shake has at least 420 calories.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Chick-Fil-A<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> A chargrilled chicken filet with no bun is just 100 calories, 21 g protein while the sandwich is 270 calories. The eight pack of nuggets is 260 calories, 26g protein. Dipping sauces vary from 15 calories for buffalo sauce to 110 for buttermilk ranch. The wraps seem like a good choice, but are close to 400 calories or over. The chargrilled chicken garden salad is 180 calories, 22g protein. The best dressings are the light Italian at 15 calories and the fat free honey mustard at 60 calories. For breakfast, the best choice is the four piece chick n minis with 270 calories, 14 g protein, although you might do better just eating the chicken and avoiding the biscuit.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Taco <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Bell</st1:place></st1:City><o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> A ranchero chicken soft taco or grilled steak soft taco has 170 calories, 12 or 11 g protein. A soft beef taco has 190 calories, 9 g protein. A spicy chicken soft taco has 180 calories, 10 g protein. Salads here are particularly high in calories ranging from 410 to 730 calories. The nachos are also very high from 310 to 790. The pintos and cheese are 180 calories, 10 g protein.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p>

http://www.webmd.com/content/Article/85/98576.htm <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p> <HR align=center width="100%" SIZE=2> <?xml:namespace prefix = v ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" /><v:shapetype id=_x0000_t75 stroked="f" filled="f" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" coordsize="21600,21600"><v:stroke joinstyle="miter"></v:stroke><v:formulas><v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"></v:f></v:formulas><v:path o:connecttype="rect" gradientshapeok="t" o:extrusionok="f"></v:path><o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"></o:lock></v:shapetype><v:shape id=_x0000_i1026 style="WIDTH: 187.5pt; HEIGHT: 15.75pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image001.gif" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/DE543859-FE4A-4F18-98AA-1113184C1AC3.gif"></v:imagedata></v:shape> WebMD Medical Reference <o:p></o:p> Protein can help you shed those unwanted pounds and keep your belly full. But it's important to eat the right amount and the right kind of protein to get the health benefits. <o:p></o:p> <TABLE class=MsoNormalTable style="WIDTH: 322.5pt; mso-cellspacing: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=430 border=0><TBODY><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1027 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 63pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image002.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/E28C9AEA-0432-4E5D-ADE9-41E6A55BB7D9.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; WIDTH: 7.5pt; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" width=10 rowSpan=9><v:shape id=_x0000_i1028 style="WIDTH: 7.5pt; HEIGHT: 0.75pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image003.gif" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/82CEAC52-F944-455B-991E-FC394D49C31D.gif"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Fish & Seafood Seafood is one of the best sources of protein because it's usually low in fat. Fish such as salmon is a little higher in fat but it is the heart-healthy kind: omega-3 fatty acids. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 1"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1029 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 62.25pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image005.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/D537248E-5FAF-4068-99D8-5D261B9C936E.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">White-Meat Poultry Stick to the white meat of poultry for excellent, lean protein. Dark meat is higher in fat. The skin is loaded with saturated fat, so remove skin before cooking. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 2"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1030 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 61.5pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image006.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/3DA9372B-461E-455B-A3C4-C63A3A2B13AC.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Milk, Cheese Yogurt Not only are dairy foods excellent sources of protein but they also contain valuable calcium. Choose skim or low fat dairy to keep bones and teeth strong, prevent osteoporosis and enhance weight loss. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 3"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1031 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 62.25pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image007.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/37453D21-A89E-4950-BD5D-87AB80DFE943.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Eggs Eggs are one of the least expensive forms of protein. The American Heart Association says normal healthy adults can safely enjoy an egg a day. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 4"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1032 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 63pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image008.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/D286ABAB-085B-4320-B4C9-F5FB84F0B619.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Beans One-half cup of beans contains as much protein as 3 ounces of broiled steak. Plus, these nutritious nuggets are loaded with fiber to keep you feeling full for hours. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 5"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1033 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 61.5pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image009.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/ED7728B7-7DAB-44E2-94AD-979064CE2118.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Pork Tenderloin This great and versatile white meat is 31% leaner than 20 years ago. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 6"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1034 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 60pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image010.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/29DACC9B-2A09-4443-83C3-EC5858F4B9BF.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Soy Twenty five grams of soy protein daily can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Combine soy protein foods like tofu with a healthy low fat diet. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 7"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1035 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 60pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image011.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/5EF48D44-4A75-40B6-91DF-9D21D05CF1FD.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Lean Beef Lean beef has only one more gram of saturated fat than a skinless chicken breast. Lean beef is also an excellent source of zinc, iron and vitamin B12. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR><TR style="mso-yfti-irow: 8; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes"><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"><v:shape id=_x0000_i1036 style="WIDTH: 58.5pt; HEIGHT: 62.25pt" type="#_x0000_t75" alt=""><v:imagedata src="file:///C:DOCUME~1bwbruceLOCALS~1Tempmsohtml101clip_image012.jpg" o:href="http://www.webmd.com/NR/rdonlyres/EA63A32A-8461-4033-A701-748989EE94CF.jpg"></v:imagedata></v:shape><o:p></o:p> </TD><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent">Protein on the Go Grab a meal replacement drink, cereal bar or energy bar. Check the label to be sure the product contains at least 6 grams of protein, and is low in sugar and fat. <o:p></o:p> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Not Losing Weight?<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Change the way you eat<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Eat protein first, 60 g/day Never drink with meals Avoid liquid calories and soft foods. Eat solid foods, not just “easy” foods Eat only ½-3/4 cup of food at a meal. Stop when you are full. Eat healthy foods. Avoid junk foods and fast food. Choose nutrient-rich foods. Eat slowly, take small bites, and chew well. <o:p> </o:p> Increase your activity<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Be sure you are getting in 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week. Its OK to build up to this. Start with 10 minutes at a time one to two times a day and work your way up to 30 minutes. Change your exercise routine every four to six weeks. Incorporate exercise into your daily life by parking further away and taking the stairs (even down if not up), take a walk during lunch, etc. Be sure you are in a safe area. Join or try out a gym, yoga, a personal trainer, or the YMCA, where tere are many choices such as swimming, weight training, or bikes. As with all exercise programs, be sure you are cleared by your healthcare provider. <o:p> </o:p> Change Your attitude<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Commit to making the lifestyle changes you need to succeed. Identify emotions or situations that lead to bad eating habits, such as bingeing or stress eating, then learn new coping skills. Cultivate a support system. You will need someone who will be brutally honest and who will hold you accountable. Consider support groups, online or in person, and/or a qualified counselor. Lean on friends who are banded and understand what you’re going through, and surround yourself with people who can motivate and encourage you to keep going. Be honest about why, what, and how much you are eating. Have realistic expectations and goals. Be patient with your weight loss. Averaging one to two pounds per week is a good rate. The less you weighed to start with, the slower the weight loss will be … BUT IT WILL COME OFF! Remember, the band is a tool and you must use it properly. It cannot stop you from overeating … it can only tell you when you feel full. Its up to you to stop when you feel full. <o:p> </o:p> Get your band adjusted<o:p></o:p> Speak with your surgeon about an adjustment if you are not losing one to two pounds a week for several weeks and are working on the lifestyle changes discussed here. Remember the goal is to lose weight with the least amount of fluid in your band. This helps prevent complications and gives you room to add fluid later if you plateau or start to gain weight.

Mine was at the Surgicenter. That's where he does his routine lapbands. He uses Twelve Oaks for those where he thinks there will be complications, like fixing an erroded or replacing a band. I've never heard of United General so you must not be in Houston?

You can also get referral pain in the left shoulder from the diaphram. It is still with me, not very painful, 5 months later. In fact, it is my signal that I'm full. I get these little twinges in the left shoulder so I know to stop eating. Also, if I get gassy that's where it effects me.

I dropped my protein drink, except for days I have to have liquids, and have my Activia or high protein cereal. I think what they are saying is that the protein shakes give us lots of protein and I'm thinking I'll go back to them. I've got some more info to share about when we are stalled, etc. I'll post it when I get a chance. I'm assuming everyone is interested?

There are a couple on this site that have expressed their need, but don't have the money. They were looking for every way to pay. Look through the posts. One was a single mom that I think was also going to school. You might want to pay 1/2 of the surgery and they pay the other half if they can. That way you know they want it and you could do good for more than one. Be careful, but I think your gift is amazing. Look for those that really want it.

Take 30 minutes to eat - This is one of the things I'm discovering. I'm taking too long to eat 45-1 hour. This is allowing me to eat more than I should. Stop at the end of 30 minutes or when your portion controlled food is gone. Eat Protein first: take a bite of meat. chew 20-35 times then swallow then wait for 2 mins in between bites for the first two bites. I think this is for those that have first bite syndrome. This should help. 1. Eat only small meals (four to six ounces = 1/2 to 3/4 cup 2. Cut food into small, dime-size bites. Eat only one bite at a time, chew throroughly and swallow carefully. 3. Stop eating as soon as you feel full. 4. Do not drink while eating 5. Eat only quality, nutritious foods. Remember, protein first 6. Avoid white, starchy foods and fibrous foods with stalks. 7. Drink plenty of fluids unless contraindicated due to medical condition. 8. Drink only low-calorie liquids. 9. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, unless contraindicated due to a medical condition. 10. Call your surgeon or nurse practitioner if you have any problems questions, concerns, vomiting, or are unable to keep down liquids. General guidelines. Consult with your doctor if you have questions or are struggling with any of these guidelines. Good reminders now that we are 5 months into this.