So, the last two weeks I've been on an "unofficial" pre-op diet. Very low carb, no sweets, no alcohol :pray2:, lots of protein shakes, and small portions. It's gone very well and I've lost about 5 lbs. I start my "official" pre-op diet on Monday which will be two weeks of protein shakes and one small low carb meal. I have been considering taking this weekend to endulge in some things that I know I won't be able to have for a long time. Friday night sushi date with the DH (no holds bar on how much and what I eat) and a Saturday night "wine night" with my gal pals. I know...I know.... why don't I do both in moderation. But I kind of feel like all or nothing. Either I go to town and totally have at it, or I continue what I've been doing and go straight into my pre-op diet, surgery on 2/5, and post-op for 4 weeks after. Hmmmmmm.......what would you do?

Personally speaking I would indulge. There will be plenty of time when 2 bites of sushi fill you up and 1 glass of wine gets you buzzed. Being banded will be your new way of life for the rest of your life. 2 nights will not kill you. Have fun! I would.

Eat Drink & Be Merry...........

I know most people say "Induldge" but my doctor was very strict and told me that if I had made the decision to have the surgery that I had made the decision to change my lifestyle. That the band is only a tool and you have to modify how you eat for the rest of your life. When I went to weigh the day before my surgery my nurse said "you have only lost five pounds go home and we will call to let you know if the surgery is going to happen" That was the worst part of the whole ordeal. They did go through with it but I got another lecture pre-op about if I was not going to be serious about this then I was wasting my time. My advice is your not on death row, a few months after the surgery you are going to be able to go out and have that wine and the sushi (and you will be looking good) stay with your pre-op program, it will make you feel so much better about yourself. Just my take - Good luck, the band is the best thing I ever did.

I say it depends on your personality. Will it bother you a LOT if you see the scale go up?

If you can honestly say NO, then go for it!

But I hate to see you regret the fun weekend and beat yourself up for it after.

What you're describing is similar to the "last supper" syndrome. I'm not a fan of it. I think it's a way of letting fear overcome ration. An - oh no, I might not ever be able to eat this disgusting portion again, or I might never be able to indulge myself in this many calories again, I better get that one last time in...

I personally think it's a wiser choice to head into surgery already decided and transitioning into new, better habits. I think it helps with long-term success, and I think it helps avoid the "oh shit" moments that SOOO many people have post-op.

With that being said, you're going to do what you'll do, so whatever it is, enjoy.

Sashimi is really good for you, very high in protein. If your doctor wants you on high protein, low carb I would go for that as an alternative.

I think you can last supper...but do it in moderation. I did not do that and payed a hangover price...With no food/solids to sop it up with.

Eat as though you would normally eat...and then get back on it.

Rain

I would say go for the sushi. California rolls were one of my favorite things before. And now I can't tolerate rice. I'm okay with it now. I had my farewell to food tour. My pre-op diet was 2 protien shakes a day and one meal of what-ever I wanted. My dr. didn't require a pre-op diet for me but said I could do one if I wanted. I din't go crazy, but I enjoyed what I ate. I mostly had things that give people problems post-banding (RECOVERING CARB ADDICT HERE), so Pasta, rice, bread, etc.

As for the wine, I've had 2 glasses post-op. I'm not a huge fan of wine. I have had about 5 mixed drinks though, just have to pay the price working out the next day.

Thanks everyone for your input!! It really is a mind game. I essentially am giving myself persmission to enjoy sushi and wine, which I know I will be able to enjoy in smaller quantities down the road. I am very committed to my decision to have the surgery and feel that I'm ready to head into the pre-op diet full force. Shortgal, you bring up a good point if it will bother be A LOT after the fact and I don't think it will knowing that my pre-op diet starts Monday. The reality is.....I can control this situation by making an action plan. Which right now is looking like enjoying sushi with my husband and not focusing on the quantity and having fun with the girls on Saturday with a few glasses of wine and not feeling guilty. I will also be working out Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. Oh...the other thing is I live in San Diego and my Chargers are playing New England on Sunday......might have to indulge in a good old fashioned "ass-whooping"....LOL!! Truly, thank you for all your suggestions. The bottom line is I'm ready for this journey and will be determined and committed to comply with the pre/post op diet and everything else that goes along with banding.