It's a week before my time of the month and I have a feeling that is the reason why I have been craving sweets (especially ice cream and choclate) like crazy! It's driving me bute because I don't want to put on the 7 pounds that I lost so far. I know it's still early since it's pre-op and I am not even sure what Medicare will decide as far as approving my sleeve gastrectomy. I have been using my fitness pal to count calories and I believe that's what helped me lose the first 7 lbs. I need to lose at least 8 more pounds because it is recommended to make surgery easier.

Any suggestions on what to do to control cravings and hunger? I am drinking Water, eating, fat-free Activia yogurt (70 cal) and eating Jello (10 cal)

I hope I make it through the week.

It makes me grumpy and anxious having to control myself

I don't know as far as actually controlling the craving coming on, but the best thing to do to avoid giving in is finding something else to do. Take a walk, call and talk to a friend, go to the mall, go for a drive, read a book, play a game, find something else you enjoy besides eating.

You could try snacking on high protein things, Such as plain Fat free greek yogurt, maybe with some Splenda and vanilla, or lemon or lime juice, or fresh fruit. I absolutely love it with strawberries, Splenda and vanilla. Also, avaoiding AL carbs, helps those cravings go away. It is REALLY hard at first, but gets easier. Don't be too hard on yourself, all you can do, mis your best. Good luck with everything.

When i have a craving for chocolate.....i eat a sugar free double chocolate pudding .... It helps me.

Oh Sugar free Jello Pudding! I forgot about that one. That should do the trick! Thanks.

It's been a rough week. I think I went over my calories everyday except yesterday. I am not sure how much damage I've done. I hope I didn't regain the 7 pounds I had lost. I REALLY hope I haven't regained anymore than 7. I'll have to really get a grip this week and start drinking more water to fill up. I thank everyone for their advice. With regards to carbs, yes I am a carb addict, and I could try to cut down or quit cold turkey but it will be challenging to say the least. I need to get more protein in. And about walking and more activity, distracting, yes I know that once I get into an exercise routine the hunger will subside a bit more but it's been very difficult to be out and about lately. I've never been so heavy so I am really feeling the effect on my legs, feet and my back. With the heat and humidity it is really bad to get around it feels like I swell up more. especially my ankles and just a short walk wears me out. One day at a time, is all I can think of right now. Thanks and Have a good, safe and healthy Memorial Day

I don't think most people can really control hunger or cravings. I think the best approach is to moderate. I know that is oversimplified, but I always fouind that if I had a craving and fought it, it didn't go away, it just got worse. And that's when I would eat the entire pack of Cookies instead of eating 2. So I'd say if you're really craving ice cream, go get one of the small 10/$10 type things (I think they're actually 1 serving... but they look tiny b/c who actually eats 1 serving of ice cream, right?) or perhaps try a popsicle or a healthier ice cream. chocolate isn't that bad for you. Maybe get a chocolate frozen yogurt and you can kill two birds with one stone.

Cutting carbs down to about 20 is, IMO/IME, the easiest way to lose weight quickly. Note I said weight, not fat.

Any suggestions on what to do to control cravings and hunger? I am drinking Water, eating, fat-free Activia yogurt (70 cal) and eating Jello (10 cal)

I hope I make it through the week.

Thanks!

My TOM came on week of surgery, so pre-op diet was miserable, but I found comfort in chocolate protein shake. It curbed my want of chocolate.