Good evening all! I was thinking that we should start a thread on this forum where we post an update on our progress, challenges, frustrations, or just a place for us to unload about anything we want to while on this unique journey. There aren’t many esg people out there compared to the other WLS so I thought that this particular thread could help us bond together. To be honest I feel so close to so many of you that I really want to keep that relationship for as long as possible. So even if you are preop I want us each to post an update on how their week has progressed. Please write whatever you felt was important about your week pre or post esg. It could be a that you’ve moved on to solids or you’ve lost a nice amount of weight for that week or you really struggled or perhaps you are starting to revert back to the old habits that got us here in the first place. Let’s try and update every Monday starting on December 4, 2017. My hope is we will become more accountable for our food choices and possibly stop any member from falling off track. Let us all make a commitment to one another and post our week’s successes and failures. If we had a successful week then we can guide others to do the same. If we’ve had a bad week then perhaps posting it will get us back on track. I know by now most of you are hating my long posts, lol, ?? but I think if we stick to posting our progress or lack of at least once a week we can minimize failure and encourage one another. Come on gang I hope you are all with me ??????

I’ll post Monday although I’m in the preop stage. I’ll post about whatever things I’m worried about leading to my esg or something I discovered about it for the week. Looking forward to reading all of the updates every Monday on this thread. We can do this!!!!

4 hours ago, Melesg said:

Hi again,

Next update for me ?.

Ive lost 1.4kg (3.3 lbs) this week which was a nice surprise. Have been a bit under the weather so have not been to the gym as much. I have been logging my food and working on healthy Snacks and smaller meals. Also swapped Breakfast for a Protein Shake. Excited to be 4.6 kg away from my initial goal weight. Thinking I may want to lose another 4 kg after that still but I will wait and see once I get there.

Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the esg journey. I would love to see your progress updates for anyone willing to share ☺️.

Mel x

Melesg, great job, that a big step particularly after what you have already lost. Interesting to see you went back to protein shake for breakfast, I have been thinking about doing the same thing. I need to pick up my gym work and make fitness a larger part of my goals going forward. I'm down between 1-2 pounds per week the last month or so. I'm at a weight that I haven't seen since my early 40's, which is a really nice feeling, Getting ready to go down another waist size (will be 4" down so far) which is even better.

Also great to hear you are thinking about what is the best target for you and judging by how you fell, not just a number, very positive thought process. Take care and keep in touch!

Tex

Well Mel, thanks for the hope you’ve given me that I can actually still drink coffee. [emoji8] Carbonated drinks not a real problem for me since I don’t buy any for my home. It is very unhealthy and my 4 boys would chug down the entire amount I’d bring no matter how much I bring. [emoji23][emoji23]So I stopped bringing any home or drinking soda of any kind about 10 years ago. I’ll ask my doc just in case because I plan to go back for another appointment before the procedure to ask any questions I didn’t ask at our consult and honestly to pay him because I’d prefer not to mail in the check and possibly it getting lost which would definitely delay the procedure.
Wow Mel you sound like you are just bursting with energy. I would love to get that energy back like when I first took phentermine over 10 years ago, (Bubbles can relate to this), and I felt so energetic. Of course that was artificial energy and only lasted till my next dose and of course I had to keep increasing it to get the same effect. Well you see where I’m going with this. That would be awesome to actually have a clean house with 5 other men/ boys living in it. ??You’ve just given me another thing to look forward to Mel[emoji847][emoji847] Right now I barely have enough energy to finish my basic cleaning, laundry, cooking dinner, helping with HW, driving back and forth between my boys’ wrestling matches, [emoji31][emoji26][emoji29]. My life right now just feels so overwhelming and draining If this procedure gives me the energy to finally stop feeling overwhelmed and handle my everyday life then that alone would make it worth it to me. (Oh yeah weight loss is a very close second for sure).
You are doing so great Mel! Running 10 minutes straight? And then 40 minutes cardio and weights? Good for you my love!! Keep inspiring the rest of us pre esg people. We or at least I am living off of your accomplishments. I can’t wait to be with you on the other side. [emoji307][emoji307]

As far as soda for your boys (I also have 4 boys), try soda stream...my kids have really loved it!

hai mel what youre totall loss in kilo's so far now youre so close to youre weight its so nice to hear so happy for you greets from holland

Sent from my SM-G935F using BariatricPal mobile app

5 hours ago, PCOSSUCKS said:

As far as soda for your boys (I also have 4 boys), try soda stream...my kids have really loved it!

Great idea. I’ve seen them advertised but wasn’t sure if they were worth buying. Thanks I will go ahead and try that.

(note - I posted this in the wrong area, and have no idea how to delete that)

Hi everyone!

I've been on a work project and away from home for about a week so have been totally negligent on posting -

Hope, did you have your procedure? You said it was Feb 6 but I haven't seen an actual post that you did it and how you are feeling and doing?

I've been doing well- down 26.5lbs since the Nov 8 procedure, and 5.5lbs away from my goal.

Just saw my doc for our 2nd post op visit and she said I've lost 16% of my weight in the 3 months and doing great!

Also got blood work follow up done. Getting results in now and should hear from her soon on that. I can see that my cholesterol is still high- so I expect some meds in my future.

My daily foods have remained pretty consistant. Yogurt/blueberries for Breakfast (and coffee), then a Protein Shake. lunch over the last week has been salad with grilled chicken - but the diff is, that I bought the big salad and it lasted for 4 lunches rather than 1 or 2.

Have also added a nightly snack of Halo Top - but instead of the whole pint, I measure out 4oz and it's plenty and satisfying.

So, all seems to be working in terms of satisfaction and fullness - but I still weigh everything when I can to keep me honest - since I don't trust my eyes

Glad to see everyone doing so great! Shout outs toTex and Mel, and Luv who appears to be new since I've been here last.

AmyA

2 hours ago, AmyAlexis said:

(note - I posted this in the wrong area, and have no idea how to delete that)

Hi everyone!

I've been on a work project and away from home for about a week so have been totally negligent on posting -

Hope, did you have your procedure? You said it was Feb 6 but I haven't seen an actual post that you did it and how you are feeling and doing?

I've been doing well- down 26.5lbs since the Nov 8 procedure, and 5.5lbs away from my goal.

Just saw my doc for our 2nd post op visit and she said I've lost 16% of my weight in the 3 months and doing great!

Also got blood work follow up done. Getting results in now and should hear from her soon on that. I can see that my cholesterol is still high- so I expect some meds in my future.

My daily foods have remained pretty consistant. Yogurt/blueberries for Breakfast (and coffee), then a Protein Shake. lunch over the last week has been salad with grilled chicken - but the diff is, that I bought the big salad and it lasted for 4 lunches rather than 1 or 2.

Have also added a nightly snack of Halo Top - but instead of the whole pint, I measure out 4oz and it's plenty and satisfying.

So, all seems to be working in terms of satisfaction and fullness - but I still weigh everything when I can to keep me honest - since I don't trust my eyes

Glad to see everyone doing so great! Shout outs toTex and Mel, and Luv who appears to be new since I've been here last.

AmyA

Great progress Amy. Great to hear that you’re almost at goal. That must be very exciting. I did have my procedure on the 6th and am now in the full liquid stage until day 14. Thankfully it went well and I honestly had no major pain or issues. I am hoping to post a real update after my one week follow up on Tuesday. Looking forward to hearing about more of your successes. Thanks for checking in!!

Hello all! It’s been exactly one week since my Esg procedure. I saw my doc yesterday and it looks like since my procedure day 2/6 I’ve lost 7 pounds. I’m extremely excited because I’m starting to notice it in how my clothes fit. My doc has cleared me for cardio exercise but still no heavy lifting or over exertion for fear of stretching or breaking the sutures.

I’m on full liquids now and not finding it extremely difficult as long as I get in enough protein which on average is 85-100g per day. I also feel like I have more energy and not much fatigue at all. This part amazes me considering I’m not taking in more than 700-800 calories a day max. Pre-esg this wasn’t possible except when I crashed Diet and even then of course that was definitely not sustainable.

Incredible how Tex and Mel were right that this was how I’d feel post esg. No cravings for sweets—gone, so far. And I feel like I have energy to complete everything I need to during my day with time to spare. (You were right Mel, my home has never been cleaner!!)

On a funny but happy side note, my teenage kids even noticed I lost some weight. That is an accomplishment because my boys hardly notice anything.

Keeping my fingers crossed that the weight will continue to come off. Hopefully now I’m that I’m exercising it will. Till next time guys. Please keep posting. ???

hope4momof4, wow great start, 7 pounds in 1st week! Congrats and so nice to see teenager's noticing the improvements (that is not easy recognition to get!). Awesome that your energy level is up and you hare having a similar experience of no cravings. Don't forget to enjoy that extra energy being active with your teens, that will surprise them even more. Ease back into the exercise and keep the faith on what you are eating. Keep sharing, again great job!

Tex

Thanks Tex. I feel great so far. I’m hoping that I can continue to feel this way as the weeks and months progress. Head hunger still rears it’s ugly head and I try to sip more of my protein shake when I’m feeling tempted to give in.

Something I’ve learned to do so far is to walk away from a meal that looks too tempting at home. For example, I’ll make my kids their dinner, tacos, fajitas, spaghetti, or whatever and then I’ll walk out of the kitchen while they are eating. This helps me not to graze on their food or be tempted to eat any of it. When it is not in front of me I have no desire to eat it. So I am careful not to linger while they are eating. Trying to make sure I stick to this and follow my doctor’s rules.

So far so good. Next week it’s on to puréed. All my best to everyone!

Awesome news hope4!!! Sounds like you are doing amazing!!! Well done, 7lbs is a big drop and you will see more lbs quickly disappear in the coming weeks. Sounds like you are already mentally in the zone too, not fighting the process and finding strategies to keep yourself in check. Cannot wait to hear your continued progress. Mel x

Hello Mel ????. It’s so wonderful to hear from you. I am down now 9 pounds. I’m trying not to be discouraged by the number on the scale. You were absolutely right that the greatest advantage of having this procedure is the amazing energy I have now. I can complete what I need to for the day(chores, housecleaning, etc.), get in a workout at the gym, make a nice dinner for my family and not feel overwhelmed or stressed out. I love this feeling!

Tex, you were right about the cravings, I am floored by the fact that a few nights ago we ordered pizza for the kids and I did not even feel the urge to have a slice. Yes I know I am only 12 days postop so pizza is a definite no-no but I just didn’t want any. ??? You remember how concerned I was about this preop? I drink my protein shakes, my bone broth, my Greek yogurt and I’m full and happy as can be. If you guys remember an esg poster a while back named Alcerik. I believe he posted in detail about his experience with this procedure, he was very successful and advised the rest of us to stay on the full liquid phase as long as you can which I plan to do. As long as I’m not struggling I am going to stick with this stage. I have energy and I’m not cranky or irritable or hungry yet. I know this won’t last forever but I’m riding it out as long as I can.

I’ve read about others losing more but you know what I’m happy with my slow and steady progress. I’m in no rush and the energy and confidence this has given me has just been priceless guys.

Once again thanks for allowing me to share and for all of your love and support.

One more thing for the post ESGers, can you tell me what else you can recommend for me in the full liquid stage? I want to be proactive in case I get bored of — protein shakes, bone broth, Greek yogurt, and sugar free jello and pudding.

Thank you all!!!!

On 18/02/2018 at 2:59 PM, hope4momof4 said:

Hello Mel ????. It’s so wonderful to hear from you. I am down now 9 pounds. I’m trying not to be discouraged by the number on the scale. You were absolutely right that the greatest advantage of having this procedure is the amazing energy I have now. I can complete what I need to for the day(chores, housecleaning, etc.), get in a workout at the gym, make a nice dinner for my family and not feel overwhelmed or stressed out. I love this feeling!

Tex, you were right about the cravings, I am floored by the fact that a few nights ago we ordered pizza for the kids and I did not even feel the urge to have a slice. Yes I know I am only 12 days postop so pizza is a definite no-no but I just didn’t want any. ??? You remember how concerned I was about this preop? I drink my Protein Shakes, my bone broth, my Greek yogurt and I’m full and happy as can be. If you guys remember an esg poster a while back named Alcerik. I believe he posted in detail about his experience with this procedure, he was very successful and advised the rest of us to stay on the full liquid phase as long as you can which I plan to do. As long as I’m not struggling I am going to stick with this stage. I have energy and I’m not cranky or irritable or hungry yet. I know this won’t last forever but I’m riding it out as long as I can.

I’ve read about others losing more but you know what I’m happy with my slow and steady progress. I’m in no rush and the energy and confidence this has given me has just been priceless guys.

Once again thanks for allowing me to share and for all of your love and support.

One more thing for the post ESGers, can you tell me what else you can recommend for me in the full liquid stage? I want to be proactive in case I get bored of — Protein shakes, bone broth, Greek yogurt, and sugar free Jello and pudding.

Thank you all!!!!

You go girl! That's a really big loss so early, really proud of you. I had tons of soup and I also found a high protein normal milk which was nice when I was over the taste of the protein shakes. It does feel a little bit Groundhog Day but it will pass before you know it.You have hit your stride with energy much earlier then I did - you are really doing great. Keep up the updates x

Thanks again for the encouragement Mel! It means so much that we can share our experience with one another. I’m at a bit of a stall now although I am certainly not cheating, it is too soon. However I’m excited that I have a lot of energy, my clothes fit better, and my cravings are almost gone. It’s a learning experience and I’ll ride it out. I hope to be out of this stall soon. I can’t let it get to me mentally. I hope to post better weight loss results soon. Until then I’m still following the plan of course with plenty of protein drinks and exercising now 5-6 times a week. Hope my scale moves soon!! ???

9 minutes ago, hope4momof4 said:

Thanks again for the encouragement Mel! It means so much that we can share our experience with one another. I’m at a bit of a stall now although I am certainly not cheating, it is too soon. However I’m excited that I have a lot of energy, my clothes fit better, and my cravings are almost gone. It’s a learning experience and I’ll ride it out. I hope to be out of this stall soon. I can’t let it get to me mentally. I hope to post better weight loss results soon. Until then I’m still following the plan of course with plenty of Protein Drinks and exercising now 5-6 times a week. Hope my scale moves soon!! ???

Hope4 - You're doing great!

Be sure to drink your water (do as I say, not as I do because I hate to drink water and it was a challenge for me) - if you're not drinking enough water you will retain water and that could be affecting the scale.

If you're taking in 700-800 cals/day You will continue to lose weight. I use myfitnesspal.com to keep me honest. I record everything I put in my mouth to keep track of the calories. I also weigh everything because I don't trust my eyes. Those two things are a big help for me.

AmyA

Amy, thank you so much. I completely forgot about getting enough water!?‍♀️ I’ve been so caught up on my protein intake and not eating anything but liquids that I forgot the most important one.

I appreciate the encouragement and I will post as soon as I see the scales move, hopefully soon. I am on the Lose it app and I’m only taking in as you’ve estimated about 700-800 calories.

Love the great advice from all. I’m hoping my stall won’t be for too long. Thanks again!!