It's been two weeks since surgery and I'm dying to actually eat something, not anything unhealthy or overindulgent, but something to chew (well). Has anyone "jumped the gun" and started to incorporate solids before being given an official "all clear"? Let me be clear, NOT unhealthy, bulky, just something to chew.

No, not one single bandster has ever broken the eating rules. You would be the first.

tmf

Two words: Chewing gum.

I would highly recommend you follow the doctors rules. Your band is sewn into the side of your stomach and eating solids at this point could make the stitches separate and cause your band to slip.

If you do fall off the wagon, do not eat meat. Maybe a corn tortilla with some cheese on some refried Beans? I'm not saying do this, but this is what is called a slider food. Take very small bites and chew, chew, chew. But once again, don't do it.

tmf

As 2muchfun has posted, you really should not be going against the instructions of your surgeon. If you are newly banded, and already want to break the rules, what will your attitude be when you are 6 months or a year post op?

Once you give yourself permission to cheat, it becomes progressively easier to do it again, and again. I call it the "slippery slope".

Bandsters do cheat; but those who do, especially early on will likely diminish their motivation to remain diet compliant, and therefore perhaps compromise their success with weight loss.

I'd definitely let your surgeon know how you are feeling, and follow their instructions. I may be possible that they would give permission to begin mushies or soft foods early.

Definitely DO NOT use chewing gum...prohibited my surgeon, and not advised by others!

I had to be on liquids for 2 weeks post op, then on mushies for a week, and soft foods for another week. By week 5, I was able to tolerate moist poultry, fish, overcooked broccoli and cauliflower, and well chewed strawberries and blueberries.

Uh oh why no chewing gum???? I've never heard of this :/

I swallowed chewing gum once... I was so nervous! Luckly I had not had a fill in a while and it passed threw!

Ive never been told not to chew gum but I understand why its not a wise choice. Most definately dont need a huge wad of gum getting stuck in there!

I was to nervous to eat solid food after surgery I actually stayed on liquids 2 weeks longer then I needed to. Until my dad forced me try somethin!

Not chewing is strange though I bought minature ice cube trays that were about the size of sonic ice and made crystal light ice cubes and crunched on those! It was nice to chew something plus they were full of flavor and no calories!