paul87920 Member

It was the perfect option for me. It was less invasive than the bypass, yet more effective than the lap band. It removes a portion of the stomach that produces a hormone that makes you hungry. I weighed 463 last May. I weigh 336 today. Nearly 130 lbs in 6 months. That being said it is a tool. You have to use it correctly.…

I wanted to thank you all, and let you know that Thanksgiving went on without too much problem. Hope yours was lovely!

I appreciate everyone's input. I've decided that I am going to go, and that I am going to put my foot down with the usual culprits. If I don't this won't end, and if I'm really lucky maybe I won't be invited back for Christmas. >:)

I had to look that one up.

Keep us updated. I hope everything goes well for you tomorrow.

I flew on an 8 hour flight across the Atlantic relatively comfortably. Climbed steep stairs to the top of Blarney Castle and kissed the Blarney Stone. Actually did quite a bit of intense walking and climbing around places in Ireland.

I'm 5'9" and had a starting weight of 463. My doctor wants me around 215. I too think my goal was set a little higher than it should be. I'd really like to get down around 125-130.

Waaaaay colder than I used to be, and to make it even worse when I'm around my mom who used to always be the cold one now she's going through menopause and is constantly making me freeze.

Must haves: I hid people on my Facebook who posted or shared pictures of food before the procedure during my pre-op fast. Post-op sugar-free popsicles were a life saver. I don't think I would have gotten my daily 64oz of fluid without them. I'd bring things to keep you entertained in case they keep you. I expected to go…

I've been mulling it over and trying to figure it out. I've been eating approved foods. I think chewing and speed may be contributing. There's another side to this however. Something that was brought to my attention that wasn't at the forefront of my mind. When I was younger I grew up with severe food allergies. Between…

I would follow your gut on this one. Keep getting sample sizes until you find what you like. I have way too many items collecting dust because the idea that I might not like them didn't cross my mind.

I am really not a sweets person. So pre-op was Campbells Cream of Chicken Soup, Cheddar Cheese Soup, and Cream of Mushroom Soup all made with skim milk or water.

Hey y'all! May 13th, 2014 was my day of rebirth! New person coming through! HONK HONK!

I took three weeks. I was hell on wheels during full liquids. I couldn't imagine being around people physically or mentally.

You should ask yourself a few questions. 1) How long do your typical diets last? 2) What typically causes you to stop? For me, I was on my best behavior usually for a month or two until I plateaued. Once I stopped seeing results, I would give up. Plateauing was my brick wall. WLS was the right choice for me because not…

Weight loss surgery isn't a way out. It's a tool, and in order for that tool to work, you have to do your part. I want to meet the person who believes that any kind of surgery is "easy". Pre-op, you have to lose weight to shrink your liver and prove that you're prepared to make the lifestyle changes. I personally had to…

First off, thank you all. There are so many of you here to reply to. DJRonnieLINY - I remember drinking Isopure when I was going to the gym before surgery. I do recall liking the fruit punch flavor. Thanks for the suggestion and reminder. Mangopickle - You said something that really resonated with me. I really am mentally…

Thank you everyone. I wanted to give an update. I'm doing a bit better. I honestly believe 75 is unrealistic at this phase in the diet, but I'm making it up to around 50, so that's better than nothing.

My first two days were awful. However, every day after that I've felt a little better. I'm 9 days out myself. I can't wait to get back in the pool. 5 more days.

Well thank you all for giving me something to think about. Best wishes on your weight loss journey.

I'm going to be the stick in the mud here, but hopefully I give you something to think about. 1) Someone already said this, but log it. 2) I personally don't do well with the "cheat day" mentality. It encourages me to go overboard. 3) You can work cravings into your regular regimen with moderation. If I want a BLT, I make…

Skinnygirl products are getting popular. You might want to frequent places that serve them. On nights that you know you're going out, you might want to up your exercise before you go out. When I have nights like yours, I plan ahead. I reduce my intake during the day. Be careful with that though because it will lower your…

I heard that the first two weeks can be pretty rough. Did you have the same experience?

Well considering she's a young teenager, the worst thing you could do is outright forbid it. I would follow the advice of those on this thread that have encouraged you to seek out outside assistance in helping her have a healthy transition. Also, make sure she keeps in mind all the hidden non-vegan products. Medicine in…

It also helps for accuracy if you are doing it consistently like Natalie suggested. I always weigh myself on an empty stomach and after I've made sure to use the bathroom.

I go to the doctor once every 3 or 4 weeks to get an accurate weight measurement. It encourages me to stick to task, and not cheat when I've had a good day/week. *edited for spelling & grammar

Midwesterner, Chicagoland area.

I don't think people are ill-intended or anything, I just think that most of them have no real idea of what they are doing or how it affects those around them.

Hi everyone, I'm Paul and I'm going to give this a shot. I have three small, but important goals. 1) I'm going to follow my nutritionist's advice and "stop drinking my calories" 2) Get under the 400lb mark 3) try to fix more meals at home. Allie7383- PR in my 5K on 4/22, Complete Ripped in 30, maintain low 140's, and be…

Going down this road is only going to bring serious issues with your wife if it hasn't already. I'm guessing that your wife was not at all pleased with your reaction. Additionally, is this "best friend from high school' still your best friend?