Hi, My name is Angelica. I am 33 years old. I was just banded with the Realize band on November 10, 2010. Pre-op I weighed 317 lbs. I am 5'10". So Far my weight is 296 lbs. I am so happy. I can't wait to eat normal food again. I a m so sick of this liquid diet!!! LOOOOOOL, So far so GOOD!!!:thumbup:

Hi Angelica. Congratulations on being banded!

I was banded on 9/17/10 with the LAP-BAND®®®® AP. I originally thought I had the realize band but found out that it was actually the lap-band®®®®. I had my first fill on 10/28: 3cc in a 10cc band. To date, I've lost 24 lbs.

I felt the same way you did when I was in the liquid diet phases - both pre-op and post-op. It get so tired to eat the same food with no variety! However, I lost the most weight when I was in these liquid diet phases.

Although it is a bummer to eat only liquids, the time actually goes pretty fast. My doctor is very conservative so my actually time on liquids lasted longer than most other doctors (1 1/2 weeks for both pre-op and post-op phases). I think my doctor has the most conservative approach as I don't remember anyone having a longer period on a liquid diet. Some doctors don't even prescribe a pre-op liquid diet. I'm glad I was on the pre-op and post-op liquid diet as I lost the most weight during these phases.

It starts to get more challenging once you can eat mushies and, especially, once you start to eat regular food. Portion Control is the key, especially before they fully restrict you with the band (they have not yet found my sweet spot so I am not fully restricted yet) Currently, I don't feel as much restriction as I thought I would although I think I eat smaller portions than I used to eat. I can eat most foods, even ones I thought I would have trouble, like steak and chicken breast. However, I cut my food really small, eat slowly and chew well. I will get my 2nd fill in mid December.

Getting used to our band is a journey for all of us but certainly one I am glad I am on. I love the weight loss and complements I get from friends who have not seen me in a while.

BTW have you tried egg drop Soup. That was one of my favorite foods during the liquid phase. Miso soup is also good. I started to get really tired of the Protein Shakes.

Best of luck on your banded journey. Stay motivated, even during these mundane times. The liquid diet phase is definitely not the best phase. Let me know how you do.

Maxi