Hi. I was banded on 2.15.08 in Mexico by Dr. Oritz.

I'm now eating solids, and I must say it's a bit strange. I think the hardest thing for me so far has been not being able to drink with eating. I'm so used to having a big iced Water while I'm eating dinner.

I live in WA State, and am hoping to meet people from all over to support each other during this journey.

Thanks for reading.

Hi and Welcome!

I completely relate to you on the not drinking with meals thing. It has definitely been the hardest thing for me to adapt to.

Don't worry though it gets easier. My doctor says if I HAVE to have something, go ahead and drink five minutes before eating to quench your thirst, but definitely wait at least 20 minutes after eating. I try to wait 30 if I can.

Congratulations on becoming a Double V!

I was banded on the 15th also. I'm not on solids yet, just mushie stuff like cottage cheese, eggs, etc. Not drinking with meals is the pits in my opinion but I can understand the logic so I am trying to comply. I try to wait about an hour but don't always make that goal. One thing I have noticed, if I am tempted to eat, I think about not being able to drink for an hour afterwards and I can usually wait until the next mealtime to eat. Drinking a lot between meals helps too.

Good luck! February 15 was a great day to get banded.

Hey Jax, What's a Double V?

StLouis, when are you able to start eating food again? I was banded in Mexico, and I was told 3 weeks until regular meals.

Double V means Victorious Valentines, our group name.

I can add deli sliced meats, crumbled hamburger, Peanut Butter, and fish next week (week 4) I can add everything else Week 6. My doctor is a little bit conservative but I want this to work so I am doing my best to comply. Fortunately I like scrambled eggs and cottage cheese.

Ah, thanks!

So when do you need to get your first fill? I'm supposed to get it 6-8 weeks out. Sounds like you are eating pretty normal things, while limited, I know it's nice to be able to chew :-)

My first fill is April 3. Do you have a fill doctor close to you or do you have to go back to Mexico?

I have the option of going back for my fills, or I can go through fillcenterusa.com or something like that. I know there are a few that are within 40 miles of my house that will do fills if you were banded in mexico. I'm still not sure if I'll go back to Mexico for my first fill. I think I'd like to, but I've got 2 kids under 3 at home, and I really missed them when I was there last! Maybe the whole family will go, and make a fun trip out of it - Lego Land, San Diego zoo, etc.