Yesterday was the first day of fasting for me and I found that it was more difficult than in previous years when I wasn't banded.

During fasting, I usually eat two meals, one before 5:00 AM and one after 8:00 PM (the time continually changes every day). Between these times during the day, I can not ingest anything orally, even Water. I try to preface every meal with two cups of water so that I stay hydrated and also drink water during the night, but it is slow going with tight restriction.

I am having a rough go of it. I am not hungry during the day so that part is soo much easier than before. However, I am feeling really easily light headed and weak. I have also found that eating at night disturbs my sleep unless I wait a long time before going to bed.

Are there any other bandsters out there who have fasted, and if so, any suggestions on getting through this stage a little easier?

This has been a fascinating read, Heather. You are obviously very dedicated to your religious observances and have tried very hard to practice your belief. I'm sorry it didn't work out the way that you wanted but pleased to hear that you have done the sensible thing and gotten the unfill and foregone the trigger of fasting and late night eating. I hope that the alternative of feeding the hungry is a satisfying one for you. Good luck with your journey!

Wow Heather thanks for keeping us posted

Very glad to hear that you had instant relief after your defill.

I would err on the side of caution on the Turkey trip. I think it is much better to get another defill, than to run into problems while travelling.

I am sure you will have a fabulous time. (jealous)

I can just imagine basking in the sunshine, swimming in clean Water, and eating copius amounts of helwa ----------

Heather----What a wonderful spiritual effort you are making! It is beautiful.

I just want to say that when you were talking about the swelling, reflux etc --I was concerned that the basic problem may be dehydration rather that food. I do believe that those of us who are banded need to be extra careful about dehydration. Do you wear any rings? If so--are you noticing any tightness of rings when you wake in the AM?? If so --that is a sign of dehydradtion. It may be that you could continue a modified fast that at least includes a safe and healthy amount of Water during the day. If that doesn't work---perhaps a purposely bland supplement of Protein drink during the day---some sort of drink that you will not enjoy or that will distract your spiritual intentions---just something that will nurish your body enough to allow you continue to focus on devotion. Best wishes.

My wife has had 3 unfills before she could start eating properly, me I've had 3 fills and still have little restriction.

After my emergency unfill, I eventually gained 4 pounds between the unfill to the refill on 9/23. I have not fasted at all

I was horrified by how hard it was without a fill. I went from not being hungry (and sometimes ask myself "omg I missed lunch 2 hours ago and didn't notice") to the moment my eyes opened in bed I was thinking about BREAKFASSSTTTT. I felt like I could eat a horse. I actually was able to eat bread and rice again during this time. It was a continuous struggle with constant hunger and the food obsession that was missing since banding returned the very day I got the unfill. I really did my best to curb overeating. I had a few indulgences, of course, but tried not to overdo it and stay healthy in choices.

I got a fill on Tuesday and, thank goodness for such sweet relief, I am back in the game again without too much damage being done. I am officially at my previously stated weight of 150. I didn't have the heart to change my stats in the wrong direction, but now that they are true again I feel like I am back on the losing band wagon.

I will get an unfill for certain before Ramadan next year . . . but perhaps just a small one.

I am so glad that you were able to get relief with the unfill. I am also glad that I was able to witness (from your posts) your dedication to your faith. Keep up the good work.