txflea

I had my official 6 month follow up visit today and I am so thrilled! I had surgery on May 14th and I am down 89 lbs since I started my journey on April 2nd. 6 months ago a spent a lot of time reading success stories, and that really helped keep me motivated thru the terrible pre-op phase and I can now say this had been very hard, but very worth it. My head hunger is finally going away and my cravings are less. I am adjusting well to life with the band as tool, and the rest is up to me. My next goal: I REALLY want to tell people I see at Christmastime who i havent seen in a while that I am officially down "100 lbs". A lofty goal, I know, but a girl can dream.
For all who are struggling: hang in there. It does get better. Read others successes and picture yourself there. You have the power to make your own decisions. Do you really want that cake or do you want skinny jeans this time next year? The more weight you lose and the more compliments you get, it does keep you motivated. Celebrate all goals, big and small and keep the faith!

Would you believe that just before I was born, the doc told mom that I might be stillborne. No heartbeat. Ibviously I came out ok, but could NEVER gain weight. I was put on every regimen they could think of to try to get my weight going. I grew up in the 50's when tv was king. After I became glued to the TV, I hardly did anything active again. The boy next door an I would compete to see who could eat the most. My mother made very sweet tea, and we drank plenty of it. We were not poor, really. My parents made sure we always had food on the table. Lots of gravy, etc. My mother was always over 200#s and the only thing keeping her sister from doing the same was because she had a doctor who kept her stocked with diet pills. I was put on a diet at 16 which did well until I was 19 and had to diet through a doctor again. 2 babies later, more dieting. I have averaged a major diet every 2 years as long as I can remember. Each time gaining more, and each time as I got older much harder. At menopause, forget it. 20 lbs is my limit before giving up. I would give anything to be at the weight I was when I began most of those diets 20 years ago.
Overeating is the acceptable vice, socially. You meet friends or relatives - you eat. Reunions - A LOT OF EATING. Even functions at church - covered dish. Holiday gatherings - eat your a@# off (wish we really could do that). Now, if we were alcholics, why, people would go out of their way to make sure it was not at our disposal. But, hey, have another slice. Aw come on, you can diet next week. Live a little.
You see, if you have quit the smoking habit or booze, you just stay away from it. We canot just stay away from food. And people want us to eat, just cut back. Can you just cut back on drinking or smoking without falling off the wagon? I don't think so. We just have to 'control ourselves'.
TexMama

I am not fat because I am miserable. I am fat because I WAS miserable and developed habits at that point that will take me a lot longer to break than it did to learn them. I had a dysfunctional family to the point where my mother and I had to leave and change our identities and move from place to place. I was thin then but my obsession with food began as we had none... I remember going to a neighbors house and they had rice a roni - it was like a jackpot. But, these days it seems "dysfunctional" families is the norm, unfortunately. So why am *I* fat and not the girl nextdoor who had a similary horid childhood??? I honestly think part of it is genetics, though certainly less than 50% of the issue. The other 50% are the ridiculous habits I formed...
I snack - especially at night. My kids go to bed and I head for the fridge/cabinets and then to the couch where I remain there until I go to bed (or, subsitute couch for computer). I guess this can be attributed to "hording" - I had to hord food as a child in order to have some the next day. I used to hide packs of pudding powder and eat it in the bathroom.
I never feel full unless I gorge myself - think Thankgiving dinner. If I don't feel like I am going to bust then I don't feel satisfied. Not sure why this is...
I eat so fast I don't "hear" my body saying it had enough... or that I had something that will make me sick, until it's too late. Again, goes back to the having to hurry it up so no one would see what I was able to sneak or just because we were always going somewhere.
Preband, as an adultm eating is like autopilot (as I mentioned in another post). Almost like I don't even realize I am doing it.
The band is helping - feel full sooner than gorging myself... still snacking but less often and it's a decision I make vs. an automatic behavior.
There is obviously more to all this but if I keep writing I may as well write a book, lol.
I am on the road to recovery.... changing the way I look at food is my biggest challenge - it's for nurishment and nothing else. Changing how fast I eat is the other. My portions are much better, my food choices are where they should be....
Anyway... thanks for posting this - great to read others stories and think about my own.

Many women find themselves using food as a treat, or resorting to stress eating or comfort eating at the end of a long difficult day. Try out these new strategies:


If you are an emotional eater or someone prone to overeating, you know well that it’s one thing to decide to change your eating habits—to cut back your portions, stop snacking in the evening, or to stop turning to food at the end of a long day. It’s another thing entirely to act on your intentions and not overeat when you find yourself in the situation where that’s all you want to do.

Many women find themselves using food as a treat, or resorting to stress eating or comfort eating at the end of a long difficult day. In fact, for most people, this is the time when good intentions unravel.

Why? Well, you’re tired, your defenses are pretty low, and you likely don’t have a lot of energy or creativity to conjure up an alternative to that big bowl of popcorn or ice cream or the leftovers that are calling to you from the refrigerator.

Relying on willpower alone is a recipe for self-sabotage and frustration. Plus, it’s not very fun. If evening is a tough time for you food-wise, I recommend you take some time NOW to sketch out a list of things you can do instead of eating.

Here’s an important tip: this list should not be a to-do list of projects you’ve been neglecting in disguise. If you’re turning to food for comfort or to help you relax, the alternatives you come up with should have a similar effect and they should take into account your low energy level (i.e. your exhaustion).

Make a list now and start trying out these new strategies. Expect to tweak and revise it as you learn what works and what doesn’t.

Here are some ideas of what to do instead of overeating in the evenings to get you started:
Take a bath
Soak your feet (really—this feels great)
Blow bubbles
Brew a cup of tea
Listen to music
Watch a movie
Sit outside (or if it’s cold, by a fire)
If you have a cat who will let you, pet him/her and be one with the purr
Curl up with a good book
Update your Netflix list or put some new books on hold at the library
Buy yourself some new music for your mp3 player
Call a friend
Play Scrabble or chess or even solitaire online. Better yet, get your family to play a game—live and in person
Catch up on magazines
Do a crossword puzzle
Work on your birthday wish list (no matter how far away your birthday is)
Listen to a relaxation CD

I’d love to hear what you’ve found as an alternative to eating when you are tired and want to overeat.

I'm going to go against the norm here...
Who said you can't have carbs? Who said you can't have bread, Pasta, rice, and potatoes? Whoever even said you couldn't have the occasional treat once in awhile? Just because low carb is the new "in thing" for dieters doesn't mean it's the only option. It doesn't mean it's the only thing that works, either.
I have lost almost 160 pounds in about 10 months. I do not restrict my carbs. I count my calories religiously, restrict my fat intake, and make sure I get in all my Protein...but I don't do low carb. It's simply not realistic for me long term so I don't do it. I love Pasta, bread, and potatoes and I eat them daily. I just am sure they always fit into my daily calorie allowance and stick to band sized portions.
Just something to think about!

I went to see my WL Dr. on the 16th of this month. My insurance will pay for it since I have a 45 bmi. I'm not sure the reasoning of why I have to wait 6 months, I was just told this is what my insurance requires. I have to see a nutrionalist or my regular dr. (I chose to see my regular dr since the nutritionalist is not on my ins and is out of pocket) My Dr. put me on a strange diet, I dont quite understand it.. I know its probably simple but the wording of it keeps throwing me. Exchanges..???
It's a diabetic diet too, I am not diabetic at all... but I am digressing.
She wants me to lose 5 lbs by my next visit - which is doable. But to be honest I have not even started it. I wake up and I'm ready to go! But somewhere between the shower and my first meal (I get up late, so my Breakfast is around noon) I am starving for a hamburger.
How do you make yourself do that first kick? Is there an easy mind trick I can do? (I know if it was easy everyone would have no problem) I am on myfitnesspal and I have it set to the 1500 calories she wants me to take in a day, but I take in probably twice that in a day normally, its kinda hard to cut it completely down in one day like shes expecting me to. I figured she would make me do a diary of what I normally eat in a day, and then on my next visit help me begin to cut out or ''exchange'' certain things for better options.
I know I am going to be stoned for this - so let the stoning begin. Yes I want to lose weight, Yes I want to be healthier. But that first push seems to be the hardest.
I have even cleaned out my cabinets and fridge and restocked it with only healthy options, but I dont cook at home a lot, we eat out A LOT.
Ugh any suggestions?
And how much weight do you have to lose in that 6 month period? And why? Is it possible to lose to much and not qualify for the surgery any longer?
I have all these questions and no answers and I am just feeling low and miserable and like I am already a failure because I cant even do the most simplest thing like START the diet.

Ive never laughed so hard in my life. I feel for you and understand what you are saying, but the butt shelf made me laugh because I have one too!!!!!
Good luck on your psych exam.

Welcome,
My WL doctor wanted me to lose 5% of my weight prior to surgery. So I started at 316# and was expected to lose 16#s in the 6 mos period. I would suggest just taking it one step at a time. There will be plenty of things to get used to besides weight loss expectations believe me. My WL doctor has a nutritionist on staff and we had to attend monthly classes on different topics related to healthier eating and support group meetings as well. Also if you drink soda, you had better wean yourself off of it cause you will not be able to drink carbonated beverages after the surgery. The 6 mos. will go quickly, don't worry and Welcome onboard!

I was the same way scared that I would not loss but I started in April 30 @ 224 like burgers I just eat the meat no bread and sandwich I didn't eat the bread I would eat lettuce wraps just Ham and cheese and Water no sodas and now it oct. and I'm at 213 now I'm getting ready for my band on 11/2 I'm on shakes no food on that was hard the first few days

Hi Everyone-
It has been on my mind lately to start a new post as a positive, motivational, and inspiring thread. I have noticed several threads lately where those considering surgery are asking if it is 'possible' to lose 100 pounds with the band. My answer to that is...Yes, it definitely is. Many say it is not realistic. But I have watched the amazing progress of LBT members on the board, and believe it is not only realistic, it is happening to many of our LBT members all around us. And for those that aren't quite there yet, many members are extremely close. As time goes by with lapband increasing in popularity and the number of LBT members growing everyday, I believe the list is only going to increase by leaps and bounds.
Any and all weight loss is a huge accomplishment for us all. While I realize that many members don't need to lose 100 pounds or more, many do. And for those who do, it offers not only motivation to see that other bandsters have done it...but most importantly it offers the hope that it can be done with the band!
This will be a running thread to offer positive motivation, inspiration, hope, and encouragement. Please PM me or post here to have your name added to the growing list when you hit 100 pounds lost, or if you want your amount lost updated. Congratulations to everyone on any and all weight loss!
Member/Amount Lost
A1ikou 101
Alexandra 125
Alexra 125
Angie C 110
Anillacookie 125
Apryl Showers 101
Arcael 101 :welcomeB:
Audrey 188
Ausie Jode 125
Aussie chick 152
Banded in KS 120
Babsyintx 154
Beachbum 102
BeckyinTexas 148
BelBo2 106
Bermy 118
BethinSeattle 164
Big Ethel 132
Bigmom 115
Bigolalaskan 200 :wow2:
Big Paul 150
Brittwoman 123
Burnsun 124
Bushbaby 101
Cadydid 102
Cambron KD 110
CaramelDiva1922 106
Carlene 130
Chunk 100
Cmstant 101
Corinnasue 125
Coyotegirl 107
Dadunwoody 132
DCPrincess 123
DebMoses (Wife of Frank) 135
DeltaDawn 132
Desertmom 132
Donali 100
Donovine 130
DowMoses (Frank) 165
Eleebana2 136
Emileekaye 104.5
Emmy27 117
Fauxnaif 110
FighterGirl 120
Firegirl 115
Fireman20 115
Firemanschic 142
Fionna 203 :wow2:
Fran21497 101
Frisky 146
Fuelman 230:wow2:
GayleTX 100 :welcomeB:
Giveyouthemoon 100
Glossylips9084 227 :wow2:
Gurly 101
Happenin'wa 240:wow2:
Heathergurl 129 :welcomeB:
Hodegard 113
IamCanadian25 110
Illude 376 :wow2: :wow2: :wow2:
Iluvsammys 115
Itsyvonne 110
Jack 102
Jackal1209 201 :wow2:
Jammin and Losin 100
Janie 132
Jqpublic 118
Julie Dizz 170
JulieK 101
JulieNYC 100
Kimmcneely 100
KLM3hrt 109
Ktbanded 100 Our 100th member!!!!!!!!!:clap2:
La Madam 104
Lapbandit 105
Leighhoffman 140
Lioness81970 109
LisanJason 100
Lisaru2 118
MLJ 100
Melissalee 118
MicheleMonops 132
Michelle36 110
Molynn 100
Monymo 110
Moonshadow 132
MsButterKup23 112
Mstein 156
Muffinbirdie 125
Nigel 100
Nora33 106
Old 100
OUSooner 108
Patty103 105
PFernandez 100
Puddinpie 100
Rere49 151
Rharriet62 100
Rockin' Robyn 157
Sascijo 101
ShellyJ 133
Shirley77519 103 :welcomeB:
Shirley Rohr 116
Sue72704 144
Sunni 116
Sunnykim 102
Suzan72704 154
Tamazon 59 100
Terese 156
TexasBlueBonnet 132
Thinkthin 101
Those eyes 2004 143
Tilly 128
Tracy in Texas 112
Tricia 115
Vera 115
Wheetsin 103
Whippledaddy 108
YiannisD 158
Zennie98 150 :welcomeB:

121 Members of the LBT 100 Pound Club and Growing!!!
(or I should say shrinking )

OK... lapband basics...
Buy the book by Jean McMillan and read it cover to cover! (an unpaid commercial)
The amount of weight you lose varies by person, but you doc should be able to help you set a reasonable goal.
Many docs have a pre-surgery diet to help shrink your liver, some don't
Start NOW with trying and tasting various Protein Shakes. You will be on them from 2-3 weeks post surgery, so sample now and be stocked up on you favorites before surgery. I have found several that are very good. The powders are cheaper in the long run. Nashua Nutrition allows you to order samples. http://www.nashuanutrition.com/store/protein-powders/protein-powder-samples-1-serving.html?_vsrefdom=google1&gclid=CIzH54m1nLMCFQWe4AodV2kA0Q
Also start now with lapband eating protocols. Nothing to drink 30 minutes before eating, nothing to drink with meals, nothing to drink for 30 minutes after eating.
Chew, chew chew with very small bites. This will help prevent stuck food episodes with the band, and it gives your body time to send you the "full" signals before you overeat.
After surgery, you may have gas pains in your upper chest and back. Walk, walk, walk! I found that windmilling arms while walking helped with the gas.
Recovery is not as bad as you might imagine. My surgery was outpatient and took less than 45 minutes.
Ask you doc NOW about port size. There are two, one is shallower than the other and will not protrude as much once you have lost weight.
Follow all doctors orders and do not be hesitant to call in with questions. That is what you are paying for.
Keep posting and asking your questions here. You will find a lot of support and great ideas.

We have all been where you are now, and this is a caring and giving group. Best wishes! If you have specific questions, ask them.

I am a carbaholic. The band does not stop everyone from eating bread, Pasta, potatoes or rice......just so you are aware, nor does it stop you from eating toast and crackers (in fact those go down quite nicely). I track everything on myfitnesspal.com and keep close eye on Protein, calories and carbs. More often than not, I am eating less than my daily allocation of carbs. I am more concerned with getting my Protein in daily that I focus on that more. Carbs are a bonus and are the first to be cut (bad carbs - I still try to get my fruit in and sometimes you can't fight those carbs), if my daily meal plans have gone over in calories.
Why don't you join myfitnesspal, manipulate your daily calories to 1000 -1200 and eat like a banded person for 2 weeks. 70 grams of protein, 3 meals/day equal to 8oz per meal or 1 cup. 2-3 snacks/day equal to 3-4 oz. No drinking anything 30 min before and after meals and no carbonated beverages - at all. (you will shocked to see how quickly the calories and carbs add up when you realize that 2 slices of bread equal more calories and carbs and less protein than about 4oz of chicken, and it is the chicken that will sustain you longer.
I think my 2 weeks pre op liquid only kicked me off the carb cravings pretty quickly and post surgery, you are still on liquids and really have no desire to eat.
I understand it is a real concern.......I love carbs........but I love me more . good luck

hellooos!
I am currently on my 6 months diet for my insurance to approve me to get the band so YAY and GOODLUCK FOR ME lol.
I've been reading threads and I see alot of peoples talking about how they eat and what they eat to lose the weight but I never really see anything additional about exercise.
My question to you all is, do you exercise often? If so what type of exercises do you do? Or do you pretty much leave it up to the types of foods and portions you eat to lose?
Just a curious future bander

I can also relate to your situation. I only initially told my husband (did NOT tell my parents, kids, or sisters/brother).
Once I had the surgery, I did tell my children and my mother.
My mother took it upon herself to tell my entire family. I live in a small community and I am certain that EVERY ONE knows. . . . which I don't really care about.
But, there is a post about "I'm Tired" of people asking every day how much weight I lost and why at 6months I am not at goal weight. I think my family thought I would wake up from surgery "skinny" and this would be a fast weight loss process ---> it is NOT; I am 6 months out and after several fills just now in the green zone. I am TIRED of the questions and criticism. So, I understand your caution in proceeding with who knows and who doesn't. Good Luck ~

1

Hi! My name is Felecia and I have been a member for 3 years.
I have not had the lap band, the insurances I have had over the past 3 years would not cover it. Fast forward to now, my insurance will now cover it!! Yeah, now that I have a BMI of 45!!
I am starting the process that my insurance and my Dr. want me to follow.
I have to see a nutritionalist for 6 months and discuss and follow a 1500 calorie diet and exercise program. I also have to see my Dr. (who is also my nutritionalist) to discuss any health problems I might be having.
I have to see a psychologist to discuss the pros and cons...and I have to see my lap band Dr to make sure I am following along with the program, AND I have to talk to my insurance concierge once a month also...lol So with all that I am just now starting my process towards the lap band.
I am nervous and excited all at the same time.
I hope to make new friends and learn more about everyone's journey.
Feel free to add me as a friend or however its done on here
Thanks!

Hi! My name is Felecia and I have been a member for 3 years.
I have not had the lap band, the insurances I have had over the past 3 years would not cover it. Fast forward to now, my insurance will now cover it!! Yeah, now that I have a BMI of 45!!
I am starting the process that my insurance and my Dr. want me to follow.
I have to see a nutritionalist for 6 months and discuss and follow a 1500 calorie diet and exercise program. I also have to see my Dr. (who is also my nutritionalist) to discuss any health problems I might be having.
I have to see a psychologist to discuss the pros and cons...and I have to see my lap band Dr to make sure I am following along with the program, AND I have to talk to my insurance concierge once a month also...lol So with all that I am just now starting my process towards the lap band.
I am nervous and excited all at the same time.
I hope to make new friends and learn more about everyone's journey.
Feel free to add me as a friend or however its done on here
Thanks!