joefab110

Hi everyone! I was just "banded" about 7 weeks ago. Although I have read a lot about the procedure and the lifestyle and eating habits after the operation, I still have a lot to learn! I am 5'8",50 years old and was at 275 lbs. I am now down to 240. My goal is to get down to 165 lbs. I did the operation on my own. I paid cash because I didn't want to wait for the insurance. I was desperate to lose weight, get healthy....and buy new clothes! I have been following my doctors instructions as much as I can. First week...liquids. Second week...soft foods. Third week....regular, but easily digestable foods. I had my first fill 2 weeks ago(3cc)and my second fill yesterday(3cc). Ever since the operation, I have only felt physically hungry a couple of times. I often had to remind myself to eat(or drink). At first, it felt weird...but after pigging out for 15 years, it was kind of a relief. I pretty much was very strict....except for some Hersheys kisses and a couple of ice creams(but, small scoops). I lost about 25 pounds the first 4 weeks, then 10 pounds the next 3 weeks. After the first fill, my doctor said that he would fill me slowly. I explained that I had not yet felt full to the point of discomfort...and never had to vomit. He explained that he will take it very slowly over the next 8 weeks. He also said that after the third fill is when I would REALLY start to lose weight, He said the weight I lost up to this point was just a bonus! Of course, that really made me even more excited! I had started exercising about 2 1/2 weeks ago....just treadmill 3 -4 times a week. Next week, I will start with weights(Total Gym)and will TRY to get in at least 5 days a week. I am really excited. I feel "reborn". I can't wait to go shopping on Black Friday. I would appreciate suggestions and help on what are the foods I can eat and what portions. I love to cook and even after the operation, I would cook for my family and guests...then I would just drink my liquids or Soup. Surprisingly, I never felt deprived or hungry. As I mentioned earlier, my doctor is going gradually. I have had 6cc...and he said he would fill 3cc in 2 weeks and a final 3cc after 2 more weeks. Then, he said that at after the 4 fill, my portions would have to be really small. That's why he is going slowly. So i can "practice" how to eat properly. If I follow my diet and portion controls and exercise, what will be my weight loss over the next 2 months. Is it possible to lose 50 more pounds by the end of September? Is that an unrealistic goal? My other questions are...exactly how much can I eat and what portion size? Will I get full immediately or will it be gradual(while I am eating)? Any help would be appreciated. Sorry for such a long post! Regards everyone, Joe