Question:
Lap-band 11 days ago. I started solid food today. Possible problems?

I feel real good. High energy, lost 22 lbs. Everthing going swell. How is it I can eat a solid meal of about 8 tbls.? I called my surgeon, he will see me in 6 days. Can I continue to eat like this?    — tutty8buckwheat (posted on July 22, 2007)

July 22, 2007
You are doing damage to your pouch by eating solid foods. It is still healing and you are supposed to be on pureed or soft foods. I am surprised no one told you this. If you are testing the waters, you are going to sabotage everything you have worked towards. Go back to soft foods immediately.
   — Sheri A.

July 22, 2007
You have to remember also, your band hasn't been adjusted yet. After your first fill you should start to notice the difference. Bill
   — billyblaine01

July 23, 2007
Congratuations and I'm glad you are feeling so well. Did your surgeon clear you for solid foods? You need to follow his/her advice since that is the person who knows your situation. That said, most surgeons want you on a liquid diet for any where from two to four weeks followed by a progression to pureed, then mushy, then regular foods. For most band patients, solid foods are not introduced until about 6-7 weeks post-op. Please call your surgeon's office ASAP and ask specific questions on what you are allowed to have at this point. Whatever they tell you, follow their advice.
   — VickiStevens

July 23, 2007
YOU SOUND JUST LIKE ME. I WAS WORRIED I WOULD STRETCH MY POUCH. MY DOCTOR SAID ONCE THE SWELLING GOES DOWN FROM THE SURGERY THE OPENING AT THE BAND IS NOT MUCH DIFFERENT THAN BEFORE THE SURGERY. HE SAID TO EAT WHATEVER HEALTHY FOODS I WANTED TO EAT. MY FIRST FILL WILL BE THIS WEEK AND I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO IT.
   — MAYROSE

July 24, 2007
There are so many protocols floating around out there, it's almost dangerous to ask a question like this. I was on liquids for a month, but some doctors have less stringent protocols now. What's likely going on is that you have no restriction yet. When you get your first fill, chances are that will change. For now, just go easy on the portions, listen for your full signal, and stop when you are satisfied, not stuffed. Not easy, but it's only a few more days.
   — Jeanie

July 26, 2007
I had my lap band surgery on June 8, 2007. I also lost 15 pounds prior to the surgery and have lost only 6 more since then. I had very little problems after the surgery and my surgeon did - 2 weeks full liquid, 2 weeks "solid" type liquid and then begin eating small meals. I am still somewhat hungry after my first adjustment - last Thursday. I am making sure that I have lots of water - 2 hours after meals and drink plenty between the meals. Eating solid foods was scary for me too - but I haven't had any problems and I am trying to stay at 1000 calories per day. I have more energy too and I am walking daily. Remember - we didn't gain all the weight over night - we won't lose it that way either. Dianag
   — dianag