:redface:Hi all,

I have never posted before, but feel like I need some support. I am at the starting line. I went to the seminar 6 months ago. A month later my insurance changed and the hospital near me didn't work with that insurance for the weightloss program. Well as luck finally has it I am getting new insurance next month that they do work with. I got really excited, but then these thoughts started running through my head. I really need this I have a bad back and had surgery and will face more if I don't get my weight under control.Also just other weight related health issues. My concern like I'm sure many of you had is what if I have this done and can't handle it after? What if it doesn't work? I know someone that this happened to. I'm well aware I will have to give stuff up and I am ok with that but I was thinking I need protein and what if I have a struggle with meat or anything else.... then what do you eat?

I really appreciate any advice or stories you might have.

Thanks, Jenn

I many of the same concerns, but as it turned out they were unfounded. The funny thing is, I was never a meat eater, I couldn't even consider South Beach or Atkins diets, but now, I do really well with it. I've read where a lot of people say they crave seafood more since banding. Either way, there are plenty of sources of protien for you out there, so no worry there.

As far as band life, it's not so bad. I feel so much happier doing this than I did on all those diets. I always felt deprived on a diet. With the band, I can eat pretty much whatever I want, I'm just eating less of it. I did think I would have a problem giving up bread, but as it turns out, I really don't miss it.

There are hundreds upon thousands of success stories right here on LBT. You'll do great! If by chance you had an issue, the great thing about the band is that it's adjustable and reversable (although not intended to be removed).

Best of luck to you. Yeah for you for taking the first step toward a brand new life! For me, getting rid of the weight was like having shackles removed from my hands and feet. I'm free to be ME again!

i think suzanneg gave great advice. i "use" to eat a lot of meat - and really; along with some other foods, i lost the taste or cravings for them. don't get me wrong, i love a good filet - but i can go months w/out having it. i have significantly increased my fish consumption and the only food that gives me a bit of problem is dry chicken. i've just replaced my chicken breast w/thighs & make sure i have some type of sauce with it.

cheese / Beans / greek yogurt / eggs / edamame - LOTS of substitutes in place of meat for Protein.

band problems - i knock wood daily, fingers crossed nothing comes up - but i think i've learned a bit during this last yr that if something should happen; i'm better equipped than having never been banded...

good luck to ya!

Thats awsome. Thanks for responding. I keep telling myself the pro's out weigh the cons. I don't do seafood at all. I do like my red meat, but I am a mostly chicken or turkey person. I was thinking about how many diets I've tried with little success. So this might be my only option if I can find a way to swallow my fears.

Your doing great I hope I have that kind of weightloss.

I have not had to give up any of the foods that I ate before. I do eat less of them. Wise food choices are important when you don't eat as much. Exercise is a key. If it is something people avoid and are hoping that just eating less is going to get them to goal it will be a long journey. If you follow a few simple rules you will have success. Exercise, no drinking before, during, or 1 hr after a meal, eating slowly, and chewing well you will do fine! Good Luck!