LapBandit

So basically you are eating about 6 times per day? That's what I do too. Your exercise sounds good too. Perhaps it's what you're eating. Are you concentrating on getting in good proteins, veggies and limited complex-carbs? Also, if your body is adjusted to your walking routine you may need to shake things up by adding in some new exercises.

I struggle with this too! But, my trick for distinquishing head hunger is I tell myself, "If you're truly hungry then eat some salad or eat some veggies." Usually I tell myself "No, thanks." Then I know I'm not truly hungry!! It usually works for me. I also do the water test.

Wow, that's great! Sounds like a good idea and a good pharmacy!

Well, I'm sorry you have to have 2 surgeries but I'm glad that you've got it figured out and have a plan. Best wishes for a speedy recovery and let us know how it goes!

You guys are great. OK-I can do this! Thanks for the quick replies!

I'm not saying I don't look like a sausage in these 20's but they physically are on my body! Ha Ha! I am about 2in taller than you...probably 5' 10".

Thanks Jill. Tonight I'm actually wearing my sister's old jeans-size 20!!!!!! (a major NSV for me!) I don't think I'm a 20 yet but for some unknown reason I was able to fit into this pair! Do you think I might be able to get away with this without total embarassment?

Excellent. I like everyone's ideas. This is a good idea-almost like a little mantra to say each morning! I'm going to add: eat slowly and chew better to my list!!

I've gotta fly next month for work. I've been working my butt off these last few months but am still scared to death that I won't fit into the seat. Has anyone else flown weighing 290? I read that the seats have a width of 17 inches on average. That is not very big at all...my butt is a lot wider than this! Oh my, what did I get myself into??? Any helpful advice, suggestions (other than lose 50 pounds in the next few weeks!) My flights are short, domestic flights with no first-class, just coach. :help: PS-What would I do without you guys? This is the only place in the world I feel safe enough to post a question like this and show my true weight!

A car for $300?! Way to go! You got a bargain! I know works stinks but just think, you'll be driving to that job in your own new set of wheels!

I agree...not all pills should be crushed. So far I haven't had any trouble swallowing pills. When I'm prescribed medicine I usually ask for the script to be written for either pill or liquid form then I take it to the pharmacy and ask to see the pill size and make my decision. They are usually understanding when I tell them that my surgery prevents me from swallowing anything too big.

I had gallstones and sludge in my GB. I actually had scheduled a surgery for removal but then I had a terrible bout of GB attacks and ended up having emergency surgery to get it out. The good news? Once that darn thing was out of me I felt GREAT! This all happened years before surgery but I've heard of people having their GB removed during their band surgery. I would think that would be a good plan to consider if I knew it had to come out. Good luck and let us know what happens!

I agree with Mary 100%. This happens to me sometimes. Luckily, I've never had a full PB but the symptoms listed above have happened. Actually it's been happening more often lately so I think I need to evaluate my eating habits. I think I'm eating too quickly and not chewing enough sometimes. If I don't change I know I'll be a member of the PB club any day! YIKES! When it does happen, I don't make myself go on liquids or anything. I usually just try really hard to chew better at my next meal. So far, that's worked fine for me. It's funny--the hiccups thing REALLY does kick in when this happens too.

Absolutely, you can lose inches but not pounds. Muscle takes up less space on your body but weighs more than fat cells. So, if you're working out then most likely you're gaining muscle and losing fat...which is absolutely the best thing! Good job!

Awesome work, ladies!! Marcy and Erics Mom-AWESOME!!!! NatesMommy...I can "gain" 3-5 pounds just by the afternoon. It's strange how you weigh more later in the day...don't understand it. So, I never weigh myself after morning because it just drives me insane. I figure if I get roughly the same weight two mornings in a row then I take it as my true weight. Just a thought. Keep up the good work all!

Very good! Let us know how your new fill feels! I think I'm borderline on needing another small one. I almost feel like I'm just about at my "sweet spot" but I'm scared of going too far and being too tight. I'm going to pay extra attention to my eating habits while I wait for my next appointment to see if I really need a fill or if my problem is just a slip into some bad habits!!

Good luck!

Sorry today was bad for you! Do you think it's possible you have too much of a fill?

Hang in there Molly. You're soooo close! You sound like you're thinking things through and have a new plan so you'll make it soon I promise! The ol' portion size thing is hard to fight, I know! So, get your fill and keep chugging away because we believe in you!

Yeah, unfortunately being at home is my worst time for feeling a lack of willpower! You're right, you have to find an activity to keep you occupied. Come on this site when that urge strikes you to have a snack! There are lots of wonderful people here and reading their posts will keep you busy! You're still fresh from surgery and once you get a fill I think your hunger will be more manageable. Hang in there! You can do it!

I know it's hard. And I truly battled the whole "only supposed to eat 6 oz" myth. My doctor had to set me straight by saying that I need to establish healthy portion control and if that still means I can eat a whole chicken breast, some veggies and some complex-carbs at one sitting then great. His philosophy is this: if the food is healthy then eat until you feel satisfied, not stuffed-just satisfied. It's important to get started with a healthy eating pattern that you can live with forever. Limiting yourself to a few ounces of food per meal is not something I can live with forever. His theory seems to be working for me so I'm happy! I also eat 6 times per day, at approximately the same times each day. These aren't always full meals but it's always something healthy. This helps maintain my blood-sugar and keeps me from getting ravenous. How many times per day are you eating? Has your doctor given you any advice? Each doctor seems to have their own "plan" so you may want to talk with him about this issue.

Hi Donalee-Welcome!! What is a reduction? As far as losing hair...there are several posts concerning this topic that you may find helpful. Are you eating enough protein? I've heard that not having enough protein can cause this...just an idea. Good luck!

Some people don't have too much of an appetite but others, like me, have a pretty normal appetite. It doesn't get as crazy as it used to though.

Interesting! I usually have a couple sinus infections every years so if I feel tight all of a sudden I'll know why!! Thanks!

Julie...first of all--not fair that your dad is PS. Will you be my best friend???? Secondly, I've been thinking of a goal for Christmas as well! That's when I'll go home to visit family and it'll be the first time I see them since I've had surgery. Personally, I'm leaning towards 250 as my goal. For me that will mean 40 pounds in about 4 months. Hmmm, that may be tricky but I'm gonna try!