Country_Girl_NY

Does anyone have suggestions for "safe" protein bars? Any that we should avoid?

Relax, yes it will get better. The cravings may never go away, but the hunger pangs should. Everyone has to deal with cravings, it's a mental thing that Lap-Band doesn't help. The hunger does go away when you have the right fill. Like most of us, you'll have to work to figure out the difference between true hunger and mental hunger (easier said than done). Remember ... it's a marathon, not a sprint.

Thanks! The first go-around I didn't listen to my body, in fact I didn't know how to. That's the reason it didn't work. Now I'm learning to. It's good to know that this won't last! :-)

Had a fill 2 days ago, since then I've had a headache. I'm into mushies now and don't feel hungry. Do you think the headache could be starch withdrawal (I love starches). I usually associate this headache with hunger, which I would feed with starch and all would be better. I've been good though and haven't had starches yet. Any thoughts?

I just watched this. Wish I had seen this years ago, so much good information!! Thanks for sharing!

How do you stay motivated when you're tired, busy, stressed out?

Oh yeah :-) I guess that is still liquid. I'm going to try that now. You're a genius!!

It's been a while since I've followed my plan, or any plan for that matter. I had a fill today, so I'm on liquids for the next 24 hours. I've forgotten what this felt like ... I'M SO HUNGRY!! I've had a protein shake, cup of coffee, more water than my bladder wanted and now some broth. I can't wait to go to sleep!! (but I don't regret it at all)

Thank you! I was just reading " The BIG Book on Bariatric Surgery" and it recommended carrying protein bars to help stay on track. *smacks forehead* Why didn't I think of that?!

Don't beat yourself up. You're doing great!! Think of it as a learning experience. Review what you could have done different to maintain your progress and still have fun. This way you'll be prepared for your next vacation. Focus on the big picture ... You're doing great!!

Do slow arm circles when you walk. I found this helped big time with the gas. Also, I was in pain for 2 days, then I woke up and most of the pain was gone. All that was left was soreness at the incisions. Even if it's uncomfortable to move around, do it anyway.

*raises hand* Me too! I have for most of my life. Went on meds, which helped a bit. Finally started therapy, helped a bit more. Had WLS, good at first, then not so good (mentally speaking). Went back to therapy, really good. Now starting over with my weight loss. Sometimes you have to go little by little. You deal with one obstacle, others are uncovered by it. Don't stop!! Sometimes it feels like you're walking in a circle, but the fact is that it's a slow incline. Eventually you'll turn around and see how far you've come!

I totally understand what you're saying. Before I got my band, I did tons of research, looking for both the good and the bad. Each bad thing I found, I talked to my doctor about. He was very patient with me and really explained the procedure, why some of the bad things happen and the real chances of it happening. It's a good thing to be informed, just talk to your doctor about it instead of letting your imagination (and fears) get the worst of you.

My surgery was in 2010. I did well for a while, but I don't think I was mentally ready, so I gained the weight back. Now I'm starting all over again. This time I worked on my "issues" with a therapist so I'm better prepared.

I am so glad I'm not the only one this happens too!! I always wondered why even drinking water first thing in the morning bothered me some days.

I bought mine the other day. So far I like it! There was just way too much information before I had the surgery, I couldn't keep it all straight. Plus it helps to live with it a bit to really understand exactly why we have some of the "rules".

Sometimes when I eat too fast I get the hiccups (but not anywhere near as long as you). I take a deep breath, hold it for 2 or 3 seconds, then let it out very slowly. I may have to do it 2 or 3 times, but it usually relaxes my esophagus (?) and they go away. Hope you feel better!

Hi all! Had my surgery a few years ago (October 2010). I was doing okay, no complications, losing some weight. But emotional I guess I wasn't quite ready. Found ways to "cheat", felt sorry for myself ... you know the story. Fast forward 4 years ... gain the weight back plus 20 pounds. But I'm ready this time ... I mean really ready. In those 4 year, I've gone through counseling to deal with my issues. I have finally started making decisions to care for myself, finally realized that I don't have to go through it alone. So armed with love for myself, support and a new outlook, I start all over tomorrow with the liquid diet. Next week I have an appointment for a check up and fill. Then onward and downwards following the doctor's orders. I'll need support and am ready to give support, so I look forward to chatting with you!

Just stopping in to say HI. I'm new and am in the beginning stages of my LAP-BAND® journey. I've done my research, seen my surgeon twice and am now waiting for insurance approval. Meanwhile, I'll keep doing my research, both about the procedure and my new life style. Looking forward to reading your posts.