Looking for support from long time banded. I was banded in 2007. As with everyone I have had ups and downs. Overall happy since I was able to stop my weight gain but haven't had the large weigh loss. I am 230 , was 260, want to be 180. I eat lots of small meals can't eat any more than about a cup of anything but like I said, lots of small meals. Had slippage a few months ago so was unfilled and let the band settle. Band ended up ok so was refilled. I guess I'm looking for words of encouragement and support. I find once I get pounds off they stay off, am considering opti fast to get weight down. Any advice out there?

i am not a veteran as you but perhaps a refresher course would help. just seeing my doctor yesterday. her suggestions are as follows. 1) eat only what fits on a saucer plate flat. eat Protein first. 2) no more Protein drinks, especially if they are replacing a meal, she said okay if i use a 100 cal. one as a snack if hungry. 3) low carb 4)low fat 5) red meat such as beef and pork only once every week. 6) don't eat until you feel full eat only the 1/2 cup to cup and stop. this gives the time it takes to send that signal to your brain that you are satisfied. 6) no eating after 7pm that includes fluids. this one is protection for your esophagus. there are likely a million more suggestions, but these are the ones i wrote down. and don't forget to be active. good luck and wish you the best

I am also not a veteran. I am just shy of a year in....but encouragement is always here! The above advice is great! Go back to the basics. Retrain your brain and let your band do the rest. Protein, protein, protein and exercise!

i am not a veteran as you but perhaps a refresher course would help. just seeing my doctor yesterday. her suggestions are as follows. 1) eat only what fits on a saucer plate flat. eat protein first. 2) no more protein drinks, especially if they are replacing a meal, she said okay if i use a 100 cal. one as a snack if hungry. 3) low carb 4)low fat 5) red meat such as beef and pork only once every week. 6) don't eat until you feel full eat only the 1/2 cup to cup and stop. this gives the time it takes to send that signal to your brain that you are satisfied. 6) no eating after 7pm that includes fluids. this one is protection for your esophagus. there are likely a million more suggestions, but these are the ones i wrote down. and don't forget to be active. good luck and wish you the best

thanks terrydumont46, I will get back to basics.. I work nights so I think instead of a meal at night I will do one shake instead. I totally understand the portion advise and will put it to use. I'll keep updating and let you know my progress. thanks again!!