So I'm almost 3 weeks out and struggling with my emotions. The first week was not soooo painful just uncomfortable. The next two weeks I was on Protein shakes. I didn't expect to be on them for 2 weeks, then finally a phase change! The change consists of soft foods for only 1 meal the other two meals are shakes.

I went into this knowing I'd have to heal and get adjusted to limited food, and that for a while I'd be on a scripted menu. My situation is mentally I feel sad. It could be my control issue and the way I've used food as a way to express my emotions. My nurse practitioner said its normal since many people who have had the Lapband have an emotional attachment to food. I know there is light at the end of the tunnel but was just wondering if anyone else had this experience as a new bander? Any advice or similar stories would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for letting me vent:)

What you're going through is very common. I mean, let's face it, we all have unhealthy relationships with food or we wouldn't need WLS to begin with. Some of us have emotional attachments, some of us eat based on our emotional state, some of us binge, some of us graze, and some of us are just plain food addicts.

What you're going through is a type of mourning period. You realize you can't eat the way you used to and you're feeling the loss. It's sad, frustrating, and even angering. You'll go through those moments of "this is so unfair!" and even rationalizing with yourself to fall back into old behaviors. Again, all normal. Just remember that these feelings will lessen over time. Eventually, if you continue to truly deal with them head on and not give in, one day they will be little more than a fleeting afterthought in the back of your mind.

It's not easy but stick to your guns despite the feelings, you'll be so glad you did.

And, if you feel you need extra help? Don't hesitate to seek counseling.

Best wishes to you

Everything you are feeling is normal. You just have to know over time your relationship with food will change. Hopefully you won't feel this way for long but depression after any major surgery is completely normal. Hope you feel better soon.