I'm getting worried that I won't be approved for my surgery. I began a 6 month program in may and have had so much going on lately (buying a house, moving, family issues) that instead of losing, I have actually gained about 8lbs. since I started. Next weigh in is in 2 days. I have been making changes to my habits and diet, but haven't lost weight. Did anyone else go through this?

My life was stable, so I was able to lose. It takes time to fix bad habits. If you have until October or November, just dust yourself off, go over your food log with your nutritionist (you DO keep a food log, right?) and continue modifying your habits. You CAN do this. Protein really is the key, as it keeps you fuller longer. If you haven't already, switch to Water or unsweetened tea. Sodas and sugary drinks are a KILLER from a dietary standpoint, and actually make you hungrier. Even artificially sweetened beverages trick your body into thinking it has had calories and spike your blood sugar. The resulting drop makes you crave carbs. Even little things can add up, like of you are going to have a hamburger, skip one or both buns. Select a thinner sliced bread to make sandwiches with. You won't miss the extra bread. Decide your portion in advance, and STOP when you're done. It takes 20 minutes for your stomach to realize it's full, so wait. If you're still actually hungry, have a snack of something high protein, like a few cheese cubes. Your stomach WILL shrink if you allow it, and this will also help with the feelings of hunger.

Keeping your eye on the prize is a great motivator, it got me through.

Hang in there, and don't give up! You CAN do this!