I read almost every dsy that someone thinks they are failing. That word is full of such defeat. This surgery allows us the chance to retrain our brains and make new habits, but no matter what you do, you will lose for the first year. I would just like to say that even if your diet isnt perfect, and you dont stick to your amount of water and protein you think you have to do, you can still be a success. Those guidelines do not work for all. For example. I have never drank more than 30 oz of water in a day since surgery, let alone 100 oz. I get waterlogged and sick if I push it. I have never eaten over 40 to 50 grams of protein in a day. I usualky get around 30, yet my labs for hydration and protein are perfect. I take calcium carbonate instead of citrate and calcium is great. I.do exercise, but.did not start until my 4 th month post op due to.disability. I eat fruit everyday. It does not make me dump although a lot of things do. My point is, we are all.different and although guidelines are set, it does not mean we fail if we are not precise within those ideals. I started out at 225 & 5 months later weigh 158. I wear size 6 & smalls. Its great to follow the rules, but if you have to adjust things for you, it doesnt mean you are a failure. Give yourself a pat on the back. Tjis surgery isnt easy!