I live in the Des Moines area and I am just starting my journey. Looking for others in my area for support and guidance.

Hi Weasle Mama- Thanks for the response

Slowly but surely I've been trying to change my eating habits. I'm tracking all my food using the "MyFitnessPal" app and trying to stay within about 1250 calories per day. I'm drinking 64oz of Water everyday. My husband bought me a Fitbit and I'm also tracking my activity, although now with the weather, my numbers have been on the lower end. I need to come up with an alternative plan to walking outside.

I'm going to the Mercy Weight Loss and Nutrition Center. My surgeon is Dr. Smolik. So far, I've been really happy with them

Sounds like you're doing great! Yes, I love Dr smolik, that's who I go to. Also the support group meetings they have on the first Tuesday of the month are very beneficial as well if you ever want something extra for support. Great job, you'll do great!

@@TheBombMom congrats on getting your date. Mine is scheduled for Jan 13th!!! With Dr Smolik as well. Can't wait for this opportunity!!!

I'm trying very hard to change my eating habits now but having food remorse in a way. Nothing bad but still feeling like I need to have some of my favorite foods one last time. I am working on the water though. That's tough so far. Any ideas on getting all the water in?

@@chip305 how is it going so far? You are doing the pre op diet correct?

It has went really well, I'm really surprised that the liquid diet has not bothered me. How are things going for you?

Good. Jan 13th is my date so getting excited. Glad it's going good for ya!!

@@chip305 are you doing protein shakes now? If so what kind? What have you been eating? Thinking about you! You don't have much longer!!

@@crystalmaries I have been using Premier Protein and Kelloggs to go shakes, the Carnation Breakfast Essentials that the Dr, recommended did not agree with me at all. Lots of greek yogurt and unsweetened cinnamon applesauce. I am allowed tomato Soup also but I can't face it anymore, I ate it once a day for the first 8 days. I am also allowed 1 Protein Bar a day and I usually eat Quest bars for that.

Edited November 30, 201411 yr by chip305

@@chip305 I hope that your surgery goes smoothly today!! Check in and let us know how you are doing!!!

I live in Des Moines and had my surgery Nov. 5th. Best thing I've ever done for myself.

@@jennyliz congrats!!! Who did you go through for your surgery? Any tips you can give? My surgery is Jan 13 and I'm in Des Moines also!!!

I went through unity point weight loss. Dr.Cahalan. Listen to your surgeon and you'll do great! I still do protein shakes twice a day. The Premier protein is what I use. It is a little cheaper through Amazon by the case. I'm told insurance will help with the cost. I'mstill trying to figure that out. Best of luck to you. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

I'm getting nervous. Afraid I'm not gonna succeed. Afraid of the changes. But mostly excited!!! I'll be getting the premier protein as well. I'm gonna get a Costco membership. Heard they are cheapest there. Did you have to do blood thinner shots?

No i didn't because I bruised terribly all over my belly. I had to have blood transfusions because they had trouble getting me to stop bleeding. So, in answer to your question, no. I'm glad because giving myself shots did not look fun!

It's normal to be a little scared. It is a major surgery. But for me I am so grateful to have this chance to have a new life.

How is everybody doing? I haven't been around much. I'm a FT college student and just finished with semester finals. Last week I had my scope and Dr Smolik found a hernia. I start my liquid diet on Tuesday (12/16). It's getting so close. I have to admit, I'm getting a little nervous. Last night I sat down with the binder I got from Mercy with all the information and instructions. I feel like there is so much to remember.