Question:
How do you know if you need an adjustment if you have the Lapband?

I am 6 months post-op from Lapband surgery and have lost 61 lbs so far. I was doing GREAT in the first few months but it seems like the last month or so I don't stay full or satisfied and I tend to snack constantly. I can tolerate ALL foods too, including bread, which makes it harder. Do I need an adjustment to my band or an adjustment to my diet?    — amyjo689 (posted on December 8, 2009)

December 8, 2009
You are in what they call the "yellow" zone.. I was so I know. I had a fill the other day and I definitely feel the restriction now. Call your surgeon!! Get your fill.. it will help! As far as the adjustment to your diet, talk to your nutritionist. If it were me, I would cut out the carbs and concentrate more on the protein and veges.. I'm 3 months out and just getting used to the band. I've lost 35 pounds so far.. Good luck to you!! Lin in Watertown NY
   — LinnieJean

December 8, 2009
If your just a Banding patient, you won't have any non-tolerance to any foods. You just placed a belt around your stomach. The carbs and snacks are a Head Hunger Foods that you need to get your head straight and make the lifestyle change not to even buy that stuff anymore. Have you've been getting regular band adjustments? You may need another one. Your last question - the answer is yes to both of them.
   — Michael Eak

December 9, 2009
Each surgeon/practice has their own philosophies on what to eat, etc. Always follow their advice. I eat the same things as before just not as much. Granted I am eating whole grains not refined carbs. That said. I can tell I need a fill when I can eat more than recommended by my doctor and when I am always hungry. Again each doc/practice has their philosophies on this as well. My doc wants we eating 4 to 5 ounces by weight per meal, I know when I get up to 6 ounces it is time for a fill. Call your doc, get in for an appointment. And best of luck on your journey.
   — lmw9674

December 9, 2009
If you are hungry more than 2-4 times a day, you need a fill. If you can eat more than you used to, or are able to eat faster with no swallowing problems, you need a fill. If you have plateaued, you might need a fill. Plateaus are normal and necessary every so often. Your body needs to adjust to all of the changes from the weight loss you're experiencing. If it is going on for 2 months, and you are following your surgeons guidelines, you probably need a fill or have something else going on. I'm 5 years post-op for the Lap-Band and am at goal weight. I still see my surgeon every 1-2 months for a check up. I don't get an adjustment very often anymore, but it makes for a close, informative relationship that has helped when other health concerns come up. I do still get fluid added sometimes, esp. after I had to have some removed due to an unrelated health problem. Follow these general guidelines: 1. Eat only when hungry (2-4 times per day). 2. Take small bites and chew thoroughly. 3. Wait 5 min. between bites (it takes your brain 20 min. to realize that it is full). 4. Don't drink with your meal...wait 30-60 min. afterward (liquids flush the food through faster, causing you to be hungry sooner). Do try to drink 2 qts. per day. 5. Eat your meals, don't drink them (meat not protein shakes, fruit not juice, etc.). 6. Avoid soft foods (leaves you hungry sooner), high starch and high carb foods (high in cal. and low in nutrition), high fiber foods (hard to swallow), junk food (very little nutrition), and carbonated beverages (the gas bubbles cause some people pain). 7. Take one bite of protein for every bite of anything else on your plate. 8. Don't snack, when you're hungry eat a meal. Remember that every bite counts. Make sure you are getting your nutrition in...you are eating less, so there is no room for junk or low nutrition foods. Try delicious new recipes full of nutrition and low in carbs. Check out Chef Dave Fouts' website for great tips and recipes. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. I wish you all the best. Have a Blessed Christmas. KimM
   — KimM