1shauna1

I've had a similar issue but I thought it was just my parents' computer that I was using. I was unable to reply to posts if I used the reply button at the bottom of a post. However, the reply button at the top works?! Odd.

I don't think shoulder pain would mean your band is too tight. You'd be too tight if you can't eat solid foods. Maybe you're experiencing some gas pains after your fill?

I feel bad that you are dealing with such negativity....that this is a "cheat", etc. Anyone who's had difficulties losing weight would disagree. And it's definitely NOT a cheat, as you still have to eat healthy and exercise. All I can say is, I'd be careful who I would tell as you don't necessarily know what responses you'll get. Hopefully those that care about you will be supportive.

I feel bad that this post has become so negative! I think it's okay to have some alcohol if you like to, after your doctor's okay, and as long as you keep track of the calories. Yes, this IS a lifestyle change but some of us want to have alcohol in our lives for whatever reasons. I just want everyone to succeed at their goals and have a fabulous life, whether they drink or don't. We're all here for the same reasons - support!

Thank you both!

I kept mine but had a french mani so they could see the nail beds, and no polish on my toes for the same reason.

I kept mine but had a french mani so they could see the nail beds, and no polish on my toes for the same reason.

That's not unusual. You don't have any restriction, so it's pretty much like you don't have a band. At this point you're still relying on your willpower to keep your diet on track. After your fill you'll probably notice a difference, at least at first; often it takes a few fills to feel the restriction.

I wouldn't push it....as mentioned you're still healing! Check with your doc as to when you can go back and what you can do.

Just make sure you have your doc's approval before you start working out hard as you're only a month out! Your fill is soon, that will probably make a big difference!

Just wondering if anyone has a recommendation for a good food dehydrator? I love jerky and even though it's dry it seems to be a good protein for me. I'd like to start making some at home as it's pretty expensive for the amount you get. Thanks for any input! I'm looking at the Nesco Professional food dehydrator but am open to suggestions!

It's hard until you have a fill as you're still just relying on your willpower which many of us struggled with before this surgery (and wouldn't have needed the surgery if we had strong willpower!). Don't beat yourself up over it. Eat the rest of the time as you're supposed to and I'm sure this one meal won't derail you!

I would say it depends how long it's been since that fill. Sometimes it takes my band a few days to catch up to the fill. But if it's been a while, then maybe you need another fill. I wouldn't compare yourself to others and where they are with fills, because every one is different. I can't see to get past 5 cc in a 10 cc band, but others have the larger one and are filled even more.

It depends on the time of day (before noon, it's out), and the type of day I'M having, but I'd usually say no to wraps. At least, the large ones that have to be folded over several times. If the wrap gets too layered, it becomes thicker. I think you have to try (carefully) and see. I was not told NOT to eat wraps, this is just what I've experienced.

You gotta just keep those sliders out of the house! I know how hard it is believe me (have been there when being too tight and just trying to eat something....ice cream is amazing!). Maybe you should go back and see your doc too?

I still occasionally have a diet coke, but have usually switched to iced tea or water when out. I don't think I was told no pop ever...but the carbonation can be uncomfortable. It depends on the type of day I'm having.

I felt sick (nauseous) once but it was because I was too tight. I think once you get used to them they will be better. Hope you're feeling better soon!

I didn't really think about another surgery, but I liked the fact my anatomy was still intact. I can't say I'm 100% happy with the band as I haven't been able to find a green zone and am up and down with fills. However I know if I didn't have the surgery I"d probably be heavier than when I started, so I'm happy that way. I wanted to be one of the few that never PBs....but I do a lot! After the first couple of times, honestly it's no big deal.

I'm surprised they let you leave without drinking water in the office? Definitely bring water with you and wait for 15 minutes in the office after your fill. Drink some; I would say medium sized sips. You will know then if you're too tight. I remember after one fill, I had some water and was immediately feeling nauseous and like I was going to throw up. Too tight! They took some fluid out right there.

I think it's pretty normal. You're probably still on liquids, right? So, really you haven't been eating anything. Also as mentioned, sometimes pain meds can stop you up. I think prune juice is good to try; if not then maybe try to the milk of magnesia.

I usually just have coffee when I get up, and have to wait a couple of hours before trying solids (but that's just me). You could try warming up a protein shake to drink, I've had that suggested to me also.

I was banded at the Slimband clinic in Toronto.

This is good advice! You've done really great so far, so don't stress too much. I would say if you can eat more than you're supposed to, you may need a fill. From the amount you've been able to lose without one, I would be cautious and start with a small fill. You could be one of the lucky people who don't really need many to get to the green zone. Good luck!

Restriction is NOT being afraid to swallow food, it's just what the word means. You are restricted to eating smaller amounts (and yes, what you were told is right, 1 cup four times per day or thereabouts). I am always looser in the evenings. Mornings I can't really eat, and as the day goes on, I seem to loosen up. However, this is just me. I have always been this way. I have had several de-fills and fills, trying to find the right levels. it sounds like you're still not at your optimal level of restriction. Just try to hang in there, eat as you're supposed to (and it'll be a lot of willpower still now) and go for your next fill when your doc has it scheduled. As long as the scale keeps going down, you're golden!

I am still not in my green zone and it seems to be hard to find it....I have 4.75 cc in a 10 cc band, but that was after my third de-fill taking out .25 cc. I was really tight there, and seem to be soooo loose in the evenings now.