Baba Wawa

I have this problem too. I have to add 1/4 c Kashi to my yogurt (Greek or regular) in order to eat it.

I understand about "the cloak". It's scary to be vulnerable when we're thinner and without our "protection". Hugs to you...

Very good post

Yes, my stalker should be concerned, lol

91 lbs

Both are problematic for a lot of bandsters. If it doesn't come up, call your doctor.

I went from no burping to burping constantly and gurgling at bed time.

What were your symptoms?

I would choose sleeve today, but it wasn't available to me when I had my surgery almost 3 years ago. Less aftercare and fewer long term complications are why. There are plenty of complications with bands, they can be life-threatening and debilitating. Do your research, read on other sites, particularly VSG talk, the sister site to this one. Ask the same questions.

I would definitely tell your surgeon what was said. Your surgeon, being the employer, is responsible for ensuring that all members of his team are "on the same page" so that his customers (patients) aren't given improper information. It's in the doctor's best interest to provide training for his employees to provide the appropriate standard of care within the specialty. He needs to know and she shouldn't be fired, just educated re bariatrics.

It's my understanding that our pouches hold appx 2 oz or 1/4 cup.

Lets think about this carbonation "myth". If you're drinking a liquid that happens to be carbonated it should pass through the band into your lower stomach where there should be room for the bubbles to dissipate. If your band is tight, it might take longer to pass through and make you uncomfortable for a few minutes. That said, you can burp and relieve the pressure. This is the way my doctor explained it to me...it's more about comfort than the danger of eroding your band by causing excess pressure on the stomach. This was based on drinking one carbonated drink, not a six pack. My nutritionist told me to open the bottle, pour into a glass and let it sit for a few minutes to allow some carbonation to escape, but again, she stressed that its more for comfort than safety. I have a favorite sparking wine I drink on occasion and I drink Perrier from time to time. Haven't had any issues with either. I also drink diet ginger ale or 7-up in a mixed drink occasionally. I think we have to remember that we're all adults and able to make informed decisions without getting so wrapped up in the "rules". Caffeine, carbonation, sugar, carbs etc are all things that should be consumed in moderation, WLS or no WLS. Just my .02

I learned a long time ago that thoughts become truth. If you think positive thoughts, this will be manifested as positive behaviors and improved quality of life. Great Post!

Anything with a thin peel, hull or skin (beans, cherries, grapes, peppers, tomatoes, grains) are off limits. Pasta was impossible, but I can eat it right now. I don't eat chicken breast, because it's too dry, even with sauce. Salads are also on my do not eat. My doctor thinks it's the gastroparesis, not the band causing problems, but what caused the gastroparesis?

It sounds like you're too tight. Even removing a little fill can help a lot. Good luck, let us know how it goes.

Here's a link to the equation: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070906130829AAMNrRU Since the Lapband system is a closed system the amount of evaporation would be minimal, if any. I think the term evaporation is used in a situation where Fluid "disappears" without explanation.

I had no restriction on caffeine or coffee. Was cautioned against drinking calories. I put one packet of raw sugar in each of the two cups I drink each morning. Artificial sweeteners and I don't get along, they give me aural migraines.

Do you all know that even if you delete a personal message on your end, it remains in the recipient's history? You haven't deleted it, just hidden it from YOUR view. Just be careful what you say in a message, you cannot erase it.

I was told the following: 1/2 to 1 cup of food Eat Protein first, veggies second, starch last, if at all. 1/4 inch bites Chew 15-25 times per bite Put fork down between bites Meal should take at least 20 min, but no more than 30 min to complete Avoid drinking for 30 min after meals. I started eating this way months before my surgery, that way it wasn't something I had to learn the hard way post op. Even with an empty band, I continue this practice, though many veggies and whole grains are off limits right now.

I have a Realize Band. I haven't seen more problems or difference in EWL between people I know with Realize or Lapband.

Copied and pasted from my comment on "Restriction Riddles" There is another factor that affects restriction: My gastroenterologist told me that he's seen many pts like me who have developed GI motility disorders causing us to feel overly restricted. Also, the stomach can spasm due to being irritated by the band. This feels like tightening, because it is, but it's not your band that tightens, it's the stomach muscle. It's not necessarily a "fickle" band as much as an irritated stomach. Since going on a low Fiber, low residue diet almost 2 weeks ago, I can eat again and I'm not vomiting, PBing, or otherwise having "stuck" episodes. I'm eating rice, noodles, potatoes, breads. No problems and no weight gain, since my portions are small.

I was told not to chew gum and haven't for 3 years. My PA told me that it could clog the stoma and need to be removed thru endoscopy...expensive and unnecessary use of medical resources.

That's awesome! You look great! I wish I was taller...

There is another factor that affects restriction: My gastroenterologist told me that he's seen many pts like me who have developed GI motility disorders causing us to feel overly restricted. Also, the stomach can spasm due to being irritated by the band. This feels like tightening, because it is, but it's not your band that tightens, it's the stomach muscle. It's not necessarily a "fickle" band as much as an irritated stomach. Since going on a low fiber, low residue diet almost 2 weeks ago, I can eat again and I'm not vomiting, PBing, or otherwise having "stuck" episodes. I'm eating rice, noodles, potatoes, breads. No problems and no weight gain, since my portions are small.

88 lbs in 33 months. Would choose VSG if having surgery today, but I don't regret getting my band.