Hi Newbie - Don't really have much advice since I'm in the same boat as you are, but I do understand how it can be almost a grieving proces when you think of losing foods and drinks that seem like friends. I have 27 days to go before my banding and will be on a liquid protein shake diet until then. My prayer is that having no choice in what I put into my mouth, will break the focus of food that has brought me to this place. Best of luck to you! Try to gather as much info as you can -- that will help alleviate fear of the unknown at least.

Hi Newbie, I can relate to the rollercoaster of emotions. The best advice I received while dieting was; physically your body is satisfied with healthy eating (including the liquid diet). It's only your mind that makes you think you are not satisfied unless you indulge in your comfort foods/drinks.

You can do it! Have faith and just do what you have to do to make it through. Be true to yourself and remember you are making a positive step to a healthier and better version of you.

Best wishes and Take Care.

Hi bubbles, I am 7 weeks post op and feeling great. I can tell you it is well worth the effort. So batton down the hatches, dig your feet in and just say, "I'm going to do this". Best wishes!!

Hi Bubbles,

The one thing that got me thru the liquid diet without munching was keeping my hands busy just like some smokers who are quitting have to do. I took up needlework and knitting....I know corny right, but it worked for me. Kept my mind busy while while I zoned out and relaxed in the evenings before bed....for me that used to be the sneaky snacking time...Obviously crafting may not be your thing....but if you find something to focus on it will make the hunger fade into the background instead of being in your face all the time. Good Luck!

Hi, newbie...It is definitely a roller coaster of emotions. We have all had a love affair with food over the years and now have to buckle down and say goodbye. That is hard! Best of luck in your journey. it will be well worth it.

This was the best gift you could give yourself. I was banded on 6/21 and have lost 31lbs since the surgery. I would love to have bread, pasta, potato chips, pizza, etc. but I love losing weight more. This was not a tough decision for me - I was tired of being an overwieght, unhappy person and decided to change things. I can only imagine you are ready for the change, for the journey to make you look and feel better. A healthier you! It is not easy - you will have to work out and watch what you eat. Giving up "garbage" will only help you on your journey. Good luck.

Hello everyone, all such great help and all newbies need support. I am hearing what wonderful information your are giving. Yes, you can eat what ever you want within limits. I have been banded over a year now and I am keeping off 110 pounds. I did stop drinking all soda, my choice. Our body just does not need it. It was about 2 weeks and I never thought about it again. I do NOT drink anything with my meals. This is so so so important. I stay fuller longer. I need to be on a schedule because I never get hungry. I need to nourish myself with REAL food, not too much, mostly plants with PROTEINS first. Eat small to be small. If it comes to you thru the window of your car it is NOT real.

So important to practice small chewing. Putting the fork and knife down to rest and eating slowly are all great practices. We will eat less and get more full and more satisfaction from eating and tasting our food.

I miss eating fast. I miss eating Large quantities of food at one time. I miss feeling over stuffed. I do not miss being morbidly Obese and having a BMI of over 40. I love my new clothes and my new figure and all the great comments I get now I am a size 10. I am so grateful to everyone on this site that helped me when I was a Newbie. Best wishes everyone imaluckydog