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It's just as easy to mindlessly munch and graze now as it was pre-op especially with slider foods. I opt for a healthier option now that I'm in maintenance. During my losing phase, I really didn't snack because I knew I needed to avoid it completely to get to goal. I ate when I wasn't hungry pre-op, and now that my hunger is completely gone, I still eat when I'm not hungry. BUT, with the sleeve, eating a healthier option is easier.

I wish my diet said "and". I'm on 3 shakes or strained cream soup a day and then of course whatever sugar free drinks, sugar free popsicle, one no sugar added fudgesicle. But I don't get it...i am not having anywhere near the same protein everyone else is.-the soup only has 1 gram per serving, the shakes are 15 but they have carbs?? I am starving, feel weak. I have literally just stayed in the house for the last 3 days because I feel crazy!! I am on day 4 and have 8 more days to go...(should have been 14 days but they let me schedule the surgery as soon as my insurance got approved.)

refried beans with enchilada sauce with a tiny bit of cheese was delicious to me and the beans are full of protein.

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Morning everyone! My name is Shannon and I live in Kansas. My surgery date for the sleeve is 12/16. I'm so happy to have come across such a great website with all of these resources! I'm wondering what everyone else is doing to prep for surgery? Did you buy a blender and food processor etc? What other things are you making sure are in place in your life before you have surgery? Also, what Protein powder is everyone using? I've seen so many suggestions it would be nice to get some real life suggestions too

I am 10 days out since my balloon procedure and have lost nothing. ZERO. I am maintaining 1100 calories/day diet with protein at every meal. Eggs, shakes, fish, fruit, yogurt...is pretty much all I have eaten. I had my thyroid removed 2 years ago due to cancer and am wondering if the balloon has messed with my meds and have crashed my metabolism or something. Am having blood work done later this week to figure this out. Anyone else have no thyroid and the balloon? I would love to hear your story.

bandayed, Thank you sooooooooo much for the great info, about the prices But HOLYYYYYY MOLYYYYYYYYY They are soo expensive for a self pay. I have college insurance since I'm doing my masters. and as you know college insurances tend to be cheap and they would never cover me for that. I thought hospitals in the US charges 15k to 20k, and thought it was expensive already. How about 35k:dead I guess I will go with the option of the Midband in France, they charge 6k Euros, thats about 8k or 9k $. Thanks a lot again, and all the best

Herbalife should be fine. Just make sure you are getting the bang for the buck and getting at least 25 grams of protein for your shake. If not, I would switch. Good luck.

Okay, I saw there were a few threads about Herbalife on here. I do have a question. Since the doc wants you to drink protein shakes, and I can see why, I was wondering what it would hurt to drink Herbalife. I have done it for a long time. The shakes to me taste pretty good, so is it going to hurt me to drink them when the time comes?

Hey everybody----if anybody is looking for some great protein shakes 35 grams of protein I can get you the hook up through my website.shoot me a email if you like terri.mike@sbcglobal.net

American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) calls for safe resumption of bariatric and metabolic surgery before COVID-19 pandemic is declared over Newberry, Fla. — Jun. 23, 2020 — The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the leading organization of bariatric surgeons and integrated health professionals in the nation, declared metabolic and bariatric surgery "medically necessary and the best treatment for those with the life-threatening and life-limiting disease of severe obesity" and called for the safe and rapid resumption of procedures, which have been largely postponed along with other surgeries deemed elective amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In a new position statement entitled, "Safer Through Surgery," published online in the journal SOARD, the ASMBS strongly rejects classifying metabolic and bariatric surgery as "elective" and prefers the use of the term "Medically Necessary Time-Sensitive Surgery" or "Medically Necessary Non-Emergent Surgery" to better characterize the effectiveness of the intervention and the progressive nature of the many diseases it treats including obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. "COVID-19 may be a factor for quite some time and the longer the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other related diseases are postponed, the greater the chance they will become worse," said Matthew M. Hutter, MD, MPH, president of the ASMBS and professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School. "Each state, doctor and patient must make a decision as to when conditions for metabolic and bariatric surgery are right, but the sooner it can be safely performed, the more quickly obesity, type 2 diabetes and other diseases can be reduced or resolved." The ASMBS recommends that the precise timing for surgery be carefully considered based on factors including an individual patient’s health status, local prevalence of COVID-19 and the availability of resources including hospital beds, ventilators and personal protective equipment (PPE). The ASMBS statement concludes, "Before COVID-19 began, it was clear that patients with obesity were ‘safer through surgery’. In the era of COVID-19, ‘safer through surgery’ for patients with obesity may prove to be even more important than before." Obesity has been identified as an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes including death among COVID-19 patients. Metabolic/bariatric surgery has been shown to be the most effective and long-lasting treatment for severe obesity. 1 Its safety profile is comparable to some of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries in the U.S. including gallbladder surgery, appendectomy and knee replacement. 2 An estimated 252,000 bariatric surgeries were performed in the United States in 2018, which is approximately less than 1 percent of the population eligible for surgery based on BMI. 3 The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 42.4 percent of Americans had obesity in 2017-2018. 4 Obesity has been linked to more than 40 diseases including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis and at least 13 different types of cancer. 5,6,7 About the ASMBS The ASMBS is the largest organization for bariatric surgeons in the nation. It is a non-profit organization that works to advance the art and science of bariatric surgery and is committed to educating medical professionals and the lay public about bariatric surgery as an option for the treatment of severe obesity, as well as the associated risks and benefits. It encourages its members to investigate and discover new advances in bariatric surgery, while maintaining a steady exchange of experiences and ideas that may lead to improved surgical outcomes for patients with severe obesity. For more information, visit www.asmbs.org. ### 1 Weiner, R. A., et al. (2010). Indications and principles of metabolic surgery. U.S. National Library of Medicine. 81(4) pp.379-394. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20361370 2 Gastric Bypass is as Safe as Commonly Performed Surgeries. Health Essentials. Cleveland Clinic. Nov. 6, 2014. Accessed October 2017 https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2014/11/gastric-bypass-is-as-safe-as-commonly-performed-surgeries/ 3 https://asmbs.org/resources/estimate-of-bariatric-surgery-numbers 4 https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html 5 The Effectiveness and Risks of Bariatric Surgery: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, 2003-2012. Accessed from: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/fullarticle/1790378 6 Steele CB, Thomas CC, Henley SJ, et al. Vital Signs: Trends in Incidence of Cancers Associated with Overweight and Obesity — United States, 2005-2014. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep2017;66:1052-1058. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6639e1 7 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015) The Health Effects of Overweight and Obesity. Accessed from: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/effects/index.html

ASMBS Guidelines/Statements Safer through surgery: American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery statement regarding metabolic and bariatric surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic Executive Council of ASMBS Published: June 05, 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soard.2020.06.003 The surgical treatment of obesity and its complications has been postponed in many parts of the world during the COVID-19 pandemic, similar to the postponements for nonurgent surgical treatment of many other human conditions and disease processes. Many have characterized bariatric and metabolic surgery along with cosmetic plastic surgery as clear-cut examples of elective procedures that must be postponed during COVID-19. Some U.S. states have included these types of procedures in their state-wide order as examples of “elective” surgical procedures that should be the last to be restarted. For those who define “elective” surgery as not necessary or optional, the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) asserts that metabolic and bariatric surgery is NOT elective. Metabolic and bariatric surgery is medically necessary and the best treatment for those with the life-threatening and life-limiting disease of severe obesity. The definition of elective in the Merriam-Webster dictionary is “relating to, being, or involving a non-emergency medical procedure and especially surgery that is planned in advance and is not essential to the survival of the patient.” Metabolic and bariatric surgery is life-saving surgery, with multiple studies confirming the survival benefit for patients treated by surgery over those treated without surgery [1]. Metabolic and bariatric surgery creates long-term changes in metabolism and reduces or eliminates multiple serious obesity-related diseases improving long-term health and quality of life as well as survival. The ASMBS supports the use of the term “medically necessary time-sensitive surgery,” as proposed by Prachand et al. [2], or “medically necessary nonemergent surgery,” as far superior to the term “elective” surgery and what it connotes. Metabolic and bariatric surgery should be restarted when it is safe to do so. The ASMBS disagrees with the concept that bariatric surgery should be postponed until the pandemic is declared over. The global nature of the pandemic, the potential for a second wave or persistent ongoing infection in some parts of the world, along with more traditional risks, such as annual influenza outbreaks, make postponement potentially indefinite. There is clear evidence bariatric surgery improves survival [1] and significantly improves the disease of obesity and several critical obesity-related conditions (including diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular events). Obesity and obesity-related diseases have been identified as independent risk factors for adverse outcomes in COVID-19 infection [3], including need for intubation, ventilatory support, intensive care unit care, and mortality. From a patient-centered and public health standpoint, it is critical to resume metabolic and bariatric surgery. We also understand that obesity and related diseases are the same risk factors that must be taken into consideration for temporarily postponing bariatric surgery in certain higher-risk subsets of patients. The risks and benefits at that particular time for that specific patient need to be carefully considered. Factors to consider in making that decision also include the local prevalence of COVID-19, the availability of testing, the available resources, including hospital beds, ventilators, and personal protection equipment, as well as strategies to protect healthcare workers and patients. However, delay in the life-saving surgical treatment of obesity and its complications for many months or years is not in the best interest of our patients. The ASMBS has advocated for many years that patients suffering from the disease of obesity and its many serious associated diseases should strongly consider metabolic and bariatric surgery as a life-changing intervention that improves health, quality of life, and long-term survival. COVID-19 is the most recent of many diseases in which underlying obesity worsens the prognosis. Before COVID-19 began, it was clear that patients with obesity were “safer through surgery.” In the era of COVID-19, “safer through surgery” for patients with obesity may prove to be even more important than before. PIIS155072892030318X.pdf

I am on my 4th fill and can't do breakfast. I do protein shakes and if I want to eat have to wait aleast 2hrs after being awake. And those day I try to eat even mush like oatmeal I struggle the whole day with eating and barely get my 1200 calories in. I really don't get it. Who else has hard time eating breakfast? I miss it sometimes what some healthy eggs or oatmeal. It blows. I also haven't seen any weight lose in 2 weeks. I bugs what is up with my body. I work out I eat healthy what is up?

Not herbal life, just 100% whey Protein...then I add ANYTHING to it I am in the mood for, and my imagination can come up with... I've been making smoothies with 2 shots of Espresso and goats milk lately... High protein, high energy smoothies and juice drinks are really starting to become the health craze lately...it does not surprise me you went to a class on it...my wife and daughter went to one recently also at Williams & Sonoma.... A lot of my friends are into it now also....and to think...I have been doing it for Breakfast every day since being banded 3 years ago....

Hello, I was banded June 2013. I've lost 55lbs so far. :-) I exercise at least 3 days a week. I've been in a plateau for a while now. I'm always interested in trying new things. Today I went to a nutritional shake shop in my town. I found out they use herbalife for their shakes. First you take a shot of aloe, then natural zero calorie,zero caffein tea, then the shake. All in all 250 cal,30 grams Protein, Vitamins, minerals and low sugar, low sodium etc. The shake was delicious!! Tasted like ice cream. I am wondering if anyone else has tried herbalife shakes only. I'm not interested in the vitamins/supplements etc. Just a shake as a Meal Replacement or to get the weight loss started again.

I have not been able to eat first thing in the morning for over 2 years now...I do have my morning coffee, followed by a home made high Protein smoothie, and I have to take that real slow, small sips....I'm good to go all day, usually little or no lunch! Hunger or cravings are never an issue for me.... Heartburn - reflux was an issue for me and something I had to figure out on my own...I found I am more sensitive to spicy foods, and I never eat anything past 7pm.....

This question has been known to incite riots on some boards! There are vastly different opinions among both bandsters and doctors regarding protein drinks. Some say that they are merely liquid calories with no purpose in our diets. Others swear that they keep them feeling full for hours and are a godsend for those who cannot eat when they first wake up! Personally, I do not use them because I have been able to consume protein in solid form since about 4 wks post-op. I say discuss this question with your doctor and explain to him why YOU feel you can benefit from them. Everyone is so different and you must do what works for you. Good luck!

Surgery went great! I feel really sore, but I do not feel hungry. I've been sipping on Protein Water, chicken broth and had a few sips of decaf coffee this morning. And tomorrow is my 38th birthday!!! :smile: I can't wait to watch the scale move down and start buying smaller clothes!!! I have a patch for pain that last for 72 hrs and I also have liquid Loratab. Last night I took just a lick of a popsicle and it made me nauseous, so I am also on Phengram. I am SO GLAD I had this done! There is not one doubt in my mind! I will succeed!!! :scared2:

Hi, Congratulations! Hope things go well for you. Are you asking about pre or post operation? I had to restrict to 1000 calories 1 mo prior. Post is mostly "full" liquids which include jello, pudding, cream soup without chunks, protein shakes, etc. All sugar free and fat free. Sugar free popsicles are great. They have the same good taste and are cool on your throat. After 10-14 days you can try other things that are thicker. You can buy protein at Wal-Mart near the Prescription drug side. Whey protein in either vanilla or chocolate. GNC has protein power. Campbells has soup at hand in tomato, cream of chicken, and others that are quick and easy. Carnation instant breakfast that is sugar-free is good to mix in milk with the protein power for a better flavor.

Hi all, Banded 6 months ago and was doing well but have become lazy recently. I work until about 6pm and people in work don't know about the band so I usually just eat something small and wait to get home for dinner. I was doing really well but then my partner and I broke up(he left me for a younger woman - I'm 25:eek:) and I moved out. Even so I was still good and cooked dinner in the evenings. I have a daughter but she eats dinner in creche so in the evenings it's just myself I have to feed and I have fallen out of the habot of cooking. It just seems like such an effort for just me. I have been craving salty things (which is a change for me as I was always a sweet tooth) and find I usually just eat rubbish now in the evenings. Any ideas for some quick, healthy recipies bearing in mind that I am now broke (paying rent, creche etc alone now) so no expensive options please :thumbdown:. I also know I need a good kick up the backside as I have fallen back into the "comfort eating" trap even though I am still losing weight it has slowed down and I feel tired and sluggish. Help!!!

I am at the stage in my process that after my last nutrition visit today, I have just one more visit with the surgeon, then off for insurance approval hopefully soon after, surgery. I have been purchasing much needed protein products and have read little about this particular item. Has anyone tried this protein teeny weany ? I have read some great reviews at sport sites, I would love to hear your feedback. It's IDS Sports, Grape flavor 42 grams of protein in 3.5 ounces. Check it out. http://www.gnc.com/p...oductId=2830575.

You can take as much food as you like, with the exception of liquids, and liquid-y type foods. Why are you restricted to 4 protein bars?

I've lost half of my hair. Log 60-100 grams of protein a day. Taking 10,000 mcg biotin and liquid silica. Just had blood drawn few days ago to check for other deficiencies. Trying to not worry but I'd like to have hair when I hit 35.

Try eating your protein not drinking it, u may stand a chance to feel fuller then .. u also dont mention how much fill u have in your band. You tend to lose hair if u have lost a large amount of weight quite quickly, u arent gettting enough protein and other nutrients in, hormopnal changes or anxiety .. The lapband in its self wont cause hair loss so maybe look at the nutritional value of the food u are eating .. good luck

OMG!! I have heard of these issues. I just got my hair back after losing it due to chemo. This is probably the only thing I fear about getting this done. Being bald again is not an option. I guess I will have to protein overload and say lots of prayers.