Looking for some lapbanders at goal or close....

Hey all ,  I am looking for some lapbanders that are at goal or close.  I just wanted to get some good ideas and the lapband forum is not what I am looking for.  I was banded 12/15/05, BMI almost 48, by July of 06, I was a 23 BMI.   Total lost since 8/30/05 140lbs. I have not had a re-gain whatsoever.  I am blessed and feeling great!  My hubby is banded also and almost to goal lost 110 in just over 1 year. I just want to connect with others that have maintained WL with the band.  Wanting to know what works for people.  How you get your protein and do you do shakes?  That sorta stuff.  I am just curious since I am able to eat anything I WANT, I just now choose not to eat some things.  Thanks! Jen

Hi Jen, I have been at goal for over 3 years. I don't do protein shakes because they don't keep me full. I do eat power crunch protein bars. I love them and they have 15 gms of protein. I can eat all meat except white meat turkey and chicken. It is also a matter of choice for me also. I still follow my surgeon's program and exercise. Hope this helps. Mona

Mona,  Thanks so much.  Its awesome to see bandsters over the 3 year mark keeping it off so well. I don't do protein shakes at all, haven't since 3 weeks post op.  I hear alot of people talking that they have to do shakes to get enough protein. I only like 1 protein bar (pure protein) but they do not fill me up. I eat chicken thighs since the breast meat tends to be to o dry and tasteless.  I still follow everything my surgeon told me originally.  I do not drink soda or consume liquid calories.    I am actually finding it hard to eat to maintain and not loose anymore.  Another reason why I am glad I chose the band over bypass.  I backed off the fluid in my band and have found it easier to maintain this way.  I worry about slipping back into old habits.  I am constantly looking for new ideas to keep me on the right path.   I lead a support group at my docs office ( I was working there but it was taking away from the family).  That helps me give back and halp others.  I am looking into expanding my volunteer efforts with several obesity related groups.   Thanks again,  Jen