I am getting banded 1/18 by Dr. Ortiz. My BMI is (was) 53.6. They want you to be 50 or below for surgery! I need to lose 30lbs. At first I was like, if I could lose the weight, I wouldn't be doing this. I was feeling frustrated! Then I realized that all the times before when I dieted, I could lose the weight, just not keep it off. 30lbs in 3 months is a challenge. I cut out all the junk food, drinks tons of H2o, and started walking 30min three times a week. In 2 weeks I've lost 7lbs. I decided to make a time line of my journey so I could see my progress. My timeline starts at zero in PA and goes to 2700miles for Mexico. Each 1 pound equals 90 miles. I even made a little Tijauna Taxi to slide along it!!! I put it up at work so my support team there can see also. It's exciting to see my little taxi already at 630 miles! I can do this!!!

That's an awesome idea.... I know you can do it!! I'll keep you close at heart waiting for your day to come. YOU GO GIRL!!!

:clap2:What a great idea! With your attitude you will be so successful with the band! beth

Very cute.

I would never advocate it for a long-term solution, but if you need to lose a good chunk of weight quickly, the induction phase (extended) of the Atkins diet can usually get you there.

My BMI was over 50 (there's a thread here dedicated to us!) and all I can say is THANK GOODNESS my surgeon didn't erquire a BMI under 50. Man -- I feel for you there.

You're doing great, keep up the super work and you'll be there in no time!

Yup, what wheet said. It doesn't work long term IMA, but it sure gets the weight gone quick.

I lost about 60lbs in 5 months on it.

I did the induction diet all 5 months, never allowing more than 5g of carbs a day.

And I didn't even eat healthy! I ate bacon, eggs, cheese, hamburgers with cheese and veggies (no bun).

The weight dropped rapidly, I was always in ketosis.

Your timeline is adorable. I love it. I wish you the best!

Also, just my 2cents. I did a study during my senior year of undergrad (in 2004) comparing weight loss of people doing either the Atkins diet, South Beach diet and just a low calorie diet. The results were that the people on the South Beach Diet and low calorie diet lost the most weight (about 13# in first 2 weeks). The people in the South Beach group were the only people to keep it off after the study ended. The people in the Atkins group lost the most bone-mineral density and reported feeling unsatisfied, confused, foggy headed, bowel changes, cramping, discomfort, etc. The other groups did not report these negative effects ( a few people in the South Beach group DID commented on a few days of feeling like they were tired).

The food records of all 3 groups showed that the low calorie group came closest meeting their basic macronutrient needs followed by South Beach.

So, just to summarize, if you want a reduced carb diet to shed pounds quickly. I think the South Beach diet is the best choice. Just my opinion!

All this talk about diets is making me hungry!!!! JK, it's actually dinner time. I've finally decided to pursue this. I'm so glad that my fiance suggested finding a lap band message board. There is so much encouragement, support and information here! I LOVE the pre-op timeline idea and I love your positive attitude. I need some of that for myself. Negativity is my worst enemy.

Ginny