I learned today that my insurance company has approved my surgery. Now I'm just waiting for a call from the doctor's office with my pre-op nutrition class and surgery date. I'm not nervous for the surgery but I'm nervous about the pre-op diet. Over the past 2 months, I've been trying to go on a liquid or reduced calorie diet in preparation for the pre-op diet but I keep failing horribly. I get so hungry that I cave in and eat more than I should or things that I shouldn't. I'm worried about my ability to stick with the pre-op diet. So my question to those who have been through it is how did you prepare, mentally or otherwise? Any tips or suggestions for getting ready for it or getting through it? Thanks!

I started cutting sweets and empty carbs and made SURE I didn't gain. Then a month before pre op I had no carb days, no sugar days and liquid only days. Spread them out (2-3 per week.) it really helped me "practice" but nothing quite prepares you for the real thing. The only thing I can say is focus on your goal!! Stay busy! And stay out of the kitchen! I'm 13 days into mine and it's easier now but still

Challenging. It's a couple weeks in the journey to a BETTER life. We are incredibly strong when we want to be. I'm 12lbs down in 12 days, that's my motivation!

You'll do great, Stay positive! Best wishes for a great surgery journey.

I was told it was to shrink my liver for surgery, and if the doc cut and found a fat liver, he could close up and not do the surgery. That was enough to keep me compliant. No way was I going to not have the surgery after all the waiting and prerequisites just because I couldn't stick the pre-op diet out. Having said that, mine was only five days of clear liquids. Post op, however, was six weeks of full liquids. That was hard. But it helped me drop fifty pounds in those six weeks so it was worth it. You'll be fine. It's hard but your upcoming surgery will give you the strength. Good luck!!

I've been trying to go on a liquid or reduced calorie diet in preparation for the pre-op diet but I keep failing horribly. I get so hungry that I cave in and eat more than I should or things that I shouldn't.

Are you drinking Protein shakes or just liquids? Protein Shakes should curb your hunger. Premier Protein from costco is a great choice (my fave)! Also, buy some powdered whey protein and mix it with low cal Soup (like a cauliflower bisque). If you are keeping the protein up, but still feel hungry- then that is probably mental hunger. When you feel mental hunger, do something like cleaning, blogging, or playing a game. My house was so freaking clean during my liquid diet 5 week phase (3 weeks prior and 2 weeks post op). Learning how to manage mental hunger will be a big key to success with Lap-Band. Good luck!

I am scheduled for surgery on the 15th of January. I started the liquid diet yesterday, and keep cheating. I drink cups of broth, but am still hungry. I had one Protein shake. I am scared if I do not show any willpower now--how will I do after? This seems to be as hard as it was for me to quit smoking 14 years ago! Thank you for this site, just typing this helps!

I am scheduled for surgery on the 15th of January. I started the liquid diet yesterday, and keep cheating. I drink cups of broth, but am still hungry. I had one Protein shake. I am scared if I do not show any willpower now--how will I do after? This seems to be as hard as it was for me to quit smoking 14 years ago! Thank you for this site, just typing this helps!

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You are going to feel hunger!! 24/7. You have to tell yourself NO and get away from the temptations. I'm 9 days liquids only and the hunger has eased but it's still there!! It's so vital you shrink your organs for surgery! I haven't cheated once, ( wanted to a million times!!) it's all about the games you let your mind play on you. Focus on your GOAL! Mine has been getting to surgery! Post op the hunger will be less and we will have our sleeve as a great tool! Best of luck! You CAN do this!!

many thanks, please, please check in with me daily if you are able. I really want this and do not wish to sabotage myself.

I am starved this minute! I am going to have some more broth.