Hello all - I am sure that there have been multiple topics on this conversation but I was unable to find a specific answer to my question. And that question is:

Why do some doctors advocate counting fat grams vs counting calories or vice versa? I have attempted to count both and find that I have more freedom and flexibility counting calories rather than fat grams.

What are some pros and cons and what are your recommendations?

A lot of doctors are still stuck in the low fat everything mode. b The atkins diet has proven that low fat is not the answer. I would count calories. Low fat BTW is usually higher calories and carbs!

It's all a matter of doctor preference, however, as patients we need to take our own needs into consideration. Some people lose great without monitoring fat, some don't. Some eat high carb and do well and others need low carb. Just like all people are different, so are our diet needs. What works for one won't work for all.

There is no "right" or "wrong" answer (diet), you just need to find out what works best for you.

protein does keep me fuller longer so I watch that closly and we need protein to burn off our calories. I also count caliores to be sure I don't over eat specialy if I have something different like 100 cal cookies . myfitnesdsdpal.com count everything so I stay in the range of everything...

Go to youtube and search lapbandaustralia! Professor and his dietitian have lots of good advice!

I like to keep it simple so I count calories .... which at eating 1000 a day means I don't need to worry about fat grams.

The 60-70 Protein grams will keep most people full longer. Stay away from fatty foods which usually have high calories as well. Most fast foods are not very good for you. At the beginning, Protein shakes will be a good ally to have on your side. As food is introduced later in the Stages, lentil, Beans, lean steak and chicken will provide some protein in your diet. I still use 2 protein shakes and then eat a simple dinner. It tends to work for me.

Best wishes