bev

I was banded in August, 2009. I've lost 50 of 100 lbs. since. The past year, I've gone through two moves, and have put the weight loss in the background. I've actually gained 12 lbs. back. I've had three fills, and have the correct restriction now because I can't eat very much at one time. My problem is not overeating, but eating the wrong things. I don't eat many fruits and vegetables, and have more granola bars, tortilla chips, and popcorn. I've started drinking diet sodas again, but not at the level I was before I was banded. I exercise, but not consistently. I do all the housework and yardwork, and it's hard to find time and energy to exercise. I was going to the gym before work, but can't do it for very long. How do I get back into the routine of putting me first? It was so nice when people made comments on how I look, but I don't get that anymore. My problem all my life when trying to lose weight was I would be bored with the program and drop out. I'm proud of myself for what I've done and that I haven't gained more weight, but need to find the motivation again. I took money I got from my mom when she died to have the surgery, knowing she would be proud of what I did with it. It's stupid, but I don't want to disappoint her by not continuing with what I started and get closer to my goal. I've never needed to be at a goal weight. I just want to be in regular size clothes and not feel bad about how I look. Does anyone have any suggestions? I don't know anyone that has gone through this to talk with, and would like to find someone else struggling and going through the same challenge I am so we could help each other. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Bev

My two concerns since being banded August 2, 2010 have been hair loss and constipation. I found out from a newspaper article about spirulina. After researching it, I found that it is very high in protein and is an amazing herbal supplement. I got a bottle at a health store and have been taking it for about two weeks. My hair loss has stopped, and I don't have to take things for my constipation now. I wanted to pass this along since it's worked for me.

I'm glad to know someone else will be banded the same day as I am. I've lost 10 of the 14 pounds that I need. I'll start the pre-op diet a week from Thursday, and am not looking forward to it. When I get hungry, I get sick to my stomach. I'm hoping I can handle the small amount of food and drinks. I've been going out to eat a lot this past month, but not eating as much and am still losing. I've been trying a variety of protein drinks and all are okay. I like Atkins the best because it is thicker. I am flying in Sunday and doing the testing and surgery first thing on the 2nd. We're staying at the Marriott, so maybe I'll run into you. Bev

Please let me know if this reply isn't correct. It's my first time to be a part of this forum. I scheduled my surgery a week ago for August 2nd. I need to lose about 14 pounds before surgery and wanted to give myself ample time. After one week I've lost 2.5 pounds, so it's a start. I am totally excited about my journey, but now that it's sunk it that I'm going to do this, I'm second guessing myself. I'm going through with it because I want for the first time in my life to feel good about myself and the way I look. I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. If there is anyone in my area, let me know. I'd also like to read about others who are scheduled the first of August also to compare how we're progressing and hand-hold each other as the time gets closer.