I officially had my almost six month checkup! It went great too! I have lost 74 pounds (237 - 163), my cholestrol is now normal at 146, my iron is only slightly low, my albumin level is normal (getting enough protein) and my blood pressure is normal! I could not have had a better report. I am feeling great and the hair loss is finally slowing down this past week. I have increased my morning 3-mile walks to 5 - 6 times per week now. I was given a new lease on life in February and I am going to enjoy it for sure. I hope all the other Februarian's are doing as well! Diana

Brandy, I feel for you. I have been battling food addiction since I was 14 years old and began stealing the chocolate milk off the porch that was delivered by the milkman. I attended Overeaters Anonymous for many years before WLS to talk to people who understand that food is my addiction. I was bulimic for 10 years and almost ruined my esophagus and stomach lining. I get the compulsions today and try to stay with the basics - the best thing I heard in the past couple weeks was MORE PROTIEN AND MORE WATER. This was pretty basic for me and helped me to get back on track. You might consider an OA meeting or seeing someone professionally. Addiction is scarey to me. I am scared every day that I will "go off the wagon" so to speak. Good luck to you and remember - the first part of change is recognizing that change is needed. Now comes the action part. I'm thinking of you. Sarah

congratulations Marion - you are doing terrific. I hope I hit the century club soon. Good for you. Sarah

Hi everyone, I have not been on the board lately and glad to see that you are all here still. Sounds like I fit in the same boat with everyone else. Last week I paid attention and increased the water and protien. The scale dropped to 187 - wow - I really wanted to be in the 180's when I go see the doctor next Tuesday. Good idea about the shakes. What type do you drink? I have tried the Atkins and they are ok. I am going to try that this weekend and see how I do. I am scared to try anything new while at work. I am a therapist and my receptionist holds me hostage to my schedule. I am afraid of spending too much time in the restroom or having changes in my schedule. I eat the same thing every day and fill my water bottle all day long. Have a great day everyone and glad you are here. Sarah 266/187/140

Hi Jo, I just posted on my profile regarding my iron problem. It's been on going since I was child. So I not going to blame it on this surgery though I was told prior to surgery it could become a problem. My iron is 5 and has been now for at least 2 months. I saw my oncology/hematology Dr. about a week ago and he increased my iron but never in all the years I had problems with it have I heard of polysaccaride iron. However I go back in Sept for another work up and if it doesn't increase I will be admitted overnight for a iron IV. This is done when taking iron by supplement or prescription doesn't work. I have been taking it faithfully everyday along with with my orders vits and supplements. B12 everyday and injections every 3 weeks. I am not crazy about getting the IV but last time it was 2001, I needed the iron and blood transfusion...and due to this I missed my daughters wedding and that is what really made me sick than anything. Let me know how you do or if that particular iron made a difference. I hope you feel better I know you must me dragging like I am. Getting headache or nausea?