Hello Everyone! I am brand new to the band. I just received my band on 06/13/2013 at 9am. I am having a very rough go at this, not because of the food thing, but boy the gas pains have taken me for a ride. I can't burp no matter what I do, so needless to say it is slowly coming from the other area, which I don't mind, but I would love to just be able to burp, LOL. So I am stopping in to say hello to everyone and ask for advice and what to do here? What I mean is that I really don't know what to expect? I have read the materials like I have watched my favorites movies over and over again, but I just want to make sure that I am doing what I am supposed to do. I go back to my surgeon in July for my first visit, what will happen there? I have been only drinking liquids, I have had very little broth as I just don't want anything yet and a small amount of sugar-free jello, LOTS of water and tea with sweetener versus real sugar. I would really appreciate anyone's and all input

Make sure that you drink your Protein shakes. It's important to get the minimum 60 grams, along with plenty of Water.

Prior to surgery, I read all of the materials over and over. I read things online, joined this forum, and heavily dosed myself with information. Even so, it's a whole different ball game when actually living it. This is an excellent forum for information. But if there comes a time where you're having an issue that just doesn't feel right, your doctor is the first place to call.

In my first follow up visit (and all subsequent visits), they go over many things; what you're eating, are you nauseous, are you vomiting, are you constipated.....a checklist of questions they review. They weigh you (of course.....every time you walk in the door), and make sure you're healing properly from surgery. They may also access if you need a fill.

As far as the gas, it WILL get better. It's the major complaint of everyone who goes through bariatric surgery. I was beginning to feel like it was something that I'd have to live with for the rest of my life. But then.....it stopped. What a relief! Every now and again I'll get a small tinge of it, but it doesn't last very long. As you've read here, walking and Gas-X are the two best things to do. sleeping with the pillow is also good, and a heating pad is soothing. Whatever it takes to get through this time with the least amount of discomfort.....DO it

Congrats on your surgery! I was banded 3/25/13, and I haven't had one day of regret. I'm down 28 pounds, and given my age and hormonal status, it wouldn't have happened without the surgery.

Thanks so very much for the info! You get so many conflicting information from the diet plan/surgeon/book. I am told to drink nothing but clear liquids, but I was also told to drink protein shakes. I have some and will be starting on those today:) The gas is getting better, and I have been sleeping with a body pillow which helps. Again thanks very much:)

Hi Judy, I was also banded on the 13th and I'm with you on the gas pains. Just keep walking around and use a heating pad, that seems to be working for me. There is a discussion group under the monthly support groups called "Early June 2013 Banders?" (I think that's it) join us!

Thanks so very much for the info! You get so many conflicting information from the diet plan/surgeon/book. I am told to drink nothing but clear liquids, but I was also told to drink Protein shakes. I have some and will be starting on those today:) The gas is getting better, and I have been sleeping with a body pillow which helps. Again thanks very much:)

There are also clear liquid Protein drinks you can pick up from the health food store.....or the Vitamin Shoppe. Isopure makes some, but there are others. Check with your doctor tomorrow about the shakes. If they want you on clear liquids, you may have to get the ones mentioned.

Good luck!!

You are all so very helpful:) I love this site!