Hello all,

My surgeon recommended I'd start the pre-op diet for 3 weeks prior to my surgery (Nov 4) instead of the standard 2 weeks, and I have a few questions for you all. I am expected to lose 5% of my body weight, which is about 10 pounds. I have lost 2 pounds so far, but I am confused whether I am doing this right. I am to *try* to consume at least 1200 calories, with 5 Protein shakes/bars, and one protein meal. The first day I had consumed about 900 calories, and I had burned around 1110 throughout the day using my HRM. I am unsure whether I am to burn as much as I consume, because wouldn't that leave me with nothing? My mother had the surgery, so she is trying to help me, but I am confused. Should I be just trying my best to walk and stay active? Burn as much calories as I can allow my body to do? I am having some troubles walking right now due to shin splints, but I am doing my very best. I am just afraid that if I don't lose the pounds by the day of my surgery it will be set back.

I never received any particular instruction as to exercise, although I was doing some. The important thing is to keep the carbs down to their recommended level so your liver will shrink.

I kept a spreadsheet with the number of Protein grams and carbs. I never used the Protein Bars, but would definitely be aware of and log the number of carb grams so you don't go over.

I would so stay away from the Protein bars....alot of extra calories and carbs. Burning more calories than you consume is the key to weight loss......not just eating healthy foods. Keep burning up those calories!!!!

I'm 8 days away from surgery. Today I made the most satisfying meal yet. I cooked some cubed chicken and added it to a broth with a ton of vegetables, spinach, mushrooms, carrots, onions, greens beans, celeryl, and red peppers.