AnneGG

Yes, Crystal Light is considered a clear liquid. And consider practicing making choices that fit the program- you'll feel better about yourself and your ability to do what's needed for yourself.

Just do like I did, which was begin on my own- I call it practice in being banded. Now that my surgery is almost here finally, I am so grateful to be prepared! I think that's the point of the 6 month supervised diet- to get you ready. As I keep hearing over and over on this board, the band is only a tool, and its usefulness depends on how you work it.

Good for you, Erin!

I'm on day 6 of a two week OptiFast pre-op, and so far haven't wanted to cheat; rather, more accurately, I've had thoughts but haven't paid attention. This is just too important to me to not do it right, and I figure if I don't do it right now, I probably won't do it right later. I'm really good at excuses and justifications, and I just can't let myself go there anymore.

Each doctor has their own requirements. I don't think the research is in yet regarding what works best. I'm sure you'll do just fine.

Hmmm. I'm 59 and I hadn't thought about this- my grandmother had dementia for over 20 years. But I figure I would rather be healthier for the intervening years, and do my best to let my caretakers when the time comes know about how to deal with the band. You can designate health care power of attorney also. I'll cross that bridge when I come to it- or near to it.

I'm in the 800-1000 camp. I'm not banded yet, but I presume it will be the same after. And I'm with you, Froggie, with the carb fears. I think I will get enough with drinking skim milk, and fat through avocados and a few nuts. But I have to be very careful.

Right on, Jack!

Good for you, Kkrc! Good luck with your surgery! I'm on Day 6 now of my pre-op, and other than passing moments am doing well. It makes it easier in some ways to not have choices.

Yup, up to the particular doctor. I do know you want to allow enough time for good healing. My instructions: 2 weeks liquids, 4 weeks pureed and mushies, then on to solid foods. Lucky me- I will be going on vacation when I'm still on mushies! Time to be creative! Yesterday I went out and bought individual packets of Protein powder and a Blender Bottle. I figure I'll be doing lots of Protein shakes.

We're praying! You can do this! Let us know how it all works out!

Both unjury.com and bariatriceating.com have variety packs available so you can try different ones. So far I like the BE Dutch Chocolate Cake the best. It dissolves easily, too, which is a plus.

Well, now, my pre-op diet is a bitch! Optifast shakes and bars and that's it except for non-caloric non-caffeinated beverages. I'm on day 5 of 14 and I don't like it one bit. I'd love some broth or veggies!!! As BetsyB said one day, I'm eying my dog wondering which part would be the filet (just a tiny one because she's a tiny and most loved dog)! However, it is worth it. I'm feeling better each day, and I have my eyes also on the goal.

Just each day work on better choices- and have shake powder or a ready-to-drink available at all times- keep one in the car or in your purse.

Hey back at you, FP! From the looks of it you're doing very well with your weight loss!

Way to go! May I be where you are in 6 months!

It's like a band-aid- pull it off slow and hurt for a long time or rip it off quick. Either way it's going to hurt. I wish you courage- facing your fear and doing whatever anyway. And it's OK to put off surgery until you're in a better mind-set.

This is me down to the age! I'm getting banded in a week and a half, and I'm sure looking forward to the support of the band even though I've been doing the right things without it for these past two months. Anyhow, good luck, renee12. There are many different paths to the same goal!

Welcome to our crazy camaraderie, willowcat! You're where I want to be next year this time! Ron, it's good to have a wise-ass around here again! Leigha, yay for the 3 minute run! I've got a ways to go...

Miralax is a miracle for me- it works when nothing else would, you can take it regularly (no pun intended), and it doesn't create dependency.

I've learned from this board what a commitment it is to make the band work- I'm scheduled for surgery May 26. I am so looking forward to the long term support the band will give me if I work it right! I've been working at it pre-op for over two months, and am now 3 days in to a 14 day Protein shake pre-op diet. It's not easy- but I am committed, so I've lost 17.5 lbs. I figure losing now will make for having to lose less on the other end. I've also been practicing eating like I'm already banded, journaling my intake, and walking 2-3 miles at a fast clip daily in addition to Wii Fit and the elliptical. I'll join a gym when I've recovered enough from surgery. So, yes, it takes work to do it successfully, but I think it is worth it. My health and my self-esteem need it. I wish it had been available when I was your age!

Welcome from me, too, Ron and Katie! The dog diagram is priceless! And good to hear from you, Kristie and Crystl aka HB- you were missed! I'm sure Bob is holding the chickens hostage rather than the other way around. Hello to the rest of the gang and whatever sundry attached gadgets- BBs and IPads and log beds and whatever! Cardio-shopping- that's a good one. All quiet here on the eastern front, but I am making progress. Day 4 of pre-op shakes beginning, 3 days so far so good. Not easy, though. But- down a pound and a half. Maybe I'll be in Onederland by the time of surgery! Wii Fit is cute, even if I am stuck in the basic of basic levels. Never was good at games, but we'll see. The BB feels like graduate school and I'm still in kindergarten. But- journeys of a thousand miles beginning with single steps, etc, etc. Top of the morning to everyone!

Good work Susi! You are doing awesome!

Farmington here. Where are you having your surgery done? I'm at St Francis May 26. I've been at the process since August of 2009, and now I'm on a two week pre-op of OptiFast shakes and clear liquids. It's hard but worth it!

Amen! Good choice!