I recently posted that I lost my band after a burst appendix a month ago. I had my band for five years and lost 100 pounds. I wanted to share my results one month after losing my band. I'll also check in from time to time to lend support to those who have lost their bands or are losing their bands. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I think I might have come to a point in my life where I can apply the knowledge I have gained over 30 years of dieting to reach a succesful goal weight and stay there.

Ok, my results at one month out with no band: 10 pounds down from before I went in the the hospital, appetite controlled, eating what I love in small portions, and feeling hopeful about the future flying solo.

I had/have a huge appetite problem and do not eat emotionally, which is why the band was so great for me. Having that hunger control was amazing. It was the first time in my life I felt full. However, after losing my band, I have been doing great controlling my appetite on my own! Here are my top tricks and tips for getting through the day with no hunger and without feeling deprived:

1. Protein, Protein, Protein:

Protein keeps us full! I aim for a minimum of 15 grams of protein at Breakfast and 25 grams at lunch and dinner. The best "protein bargains" (high protein, low calories) for me are: tofu, fish and shellfish of all kinds, "pure protein" shakes, chicken breast, lowfat Greek yogurt, whole grain bread and Pasta, fat free cheese, and egg whites.

2. Fat!!!

If I don't add some fat to my meal, I will be hungry soon after I eat. If I add about a teaspoon to a tbsp. of good fat such as olive oil, avacado, flax, etc. it keeps me full much, much longer.

3. Fiber!!!

Always combine your protein and fat with as much Fiber as possible. Fruits, wholegrain breads, Beans, and even fiber supplements are great. For example: a turkey breast sandwhich on whole wheat with some avacado and lowfat mayo. So yummy, high protein, and filling!

4. PILLS!

YEAH PILLS!!! I don't care what anyone says. OTC supplements help me alot. I have done about a million hours of research on the ones I take and have reviewed them with my doctor. We feel what I take is safe and helpful. I like green tea, red wine extract, garcinia, carraluma (Indian cactus), pine nut oil, and other "generally regarded as safe" food-derived supplements. These supplements help to control my appetite and green tea, specifically, is proven to raise the metabolism. So if you want to explore OTC supplements, check with your doctor, and don't let the naysayers get you down. There are things which do help to take the edge off. I think that the pharma companies are the ones who put the idea out there that "nothing works", because they want to be the ones to make all the money. There are things which work out there and you can find what works for you after consulting your personal physician and getting their approval, of course. And no I don't sell anything so I can't help you there, but do the research for yourself and maybe it could help you the way it's helped me.

5. "Fullbars"

Again, I don't sell these nor am I affliated with the company. This is a product which was designed by a weight-loss doctor. They are not safe to eat if you still have your band though! I know because I called the physician personally to check. They are only for those with no band. I get them at my local drug store and they have been instrumental in my success thus far. I eat one with a full glass of Water and it kills my appetite for about two hours. Again, check with your doctor if these could be right for you.

I am a firm believer that people with weight and appetite problems need HELP. We need to combine ALL the principals that can control appetite and we need all the help we can get. But believe me, if I can do it, YOU CAN TOO! You really can. I was the most hungry/starving person in the world before my band. But now that I've lost it and am combining everything I've learned in the past 30 years plus using the great new OTC products available out there, I've been doing fantastic!

I have been sticking to 1,200-1,500 calories per day and I do not restrict what types of food I eat. If I want a hot dog or chocolate, I eat it within my allotted calories for the day. Since I eat primarily high protein/fiber and take my supplements, I am in control and have not been overeating the high-calorie stuff. I've been eating it in small yet satisfying portions.

WE can do this!!! I am living proof. I know it hasn't been long, but I will check back in a couple months to give an update, and I'm sure it will be a positive one!

Good luck everyone, and never give up!!!

I had to have my lap band removed in emergency surgery due to slippage. I am very upset I have lost 140 lbs and reached my goal weight. I am extremely nervous about gaining the weight back. Surgeon could not replace the band due to my stomach being in a delicate situation. My insurance company only pays for one gastric procedure and effective Jan. 1st will no longer pay for any gastric surgeries! Guess I am out of luck and will have to try and maintain this loss on my own. Feeling very dishearted and worried at the moment-but it beats a perf stomach! Willing to accept any suggestions on obstacles anyone else has faced going through a similar situation.

Thank you for posting such a positive message.

I'm in the UK and I had my band removed on Sunday and had been dreading it. But prior to surgery the very thought that I could continue and feel full after band removal spurred me on.

I'm going to try some of your ideas!

Good luck and thanks again.