Hi all, I'm new to this board and interested in all advice. I have a surgeon, am in the ins. approval process still need to take off at least 100 lbs....already took off 65 in the last couple of years with diet & exercise,,,,,and it's REAL hard just keeping off the 65, let alone taking anymore off....who's got some words of wisdom for me?

Everyone here is giving great advice... here is my 2 cents....

The good: You have made a decision to make yourself healthy, the side effects of increased self esteem, increased mobility and DECREASED clothing sizes are meerly perks.

The bad: The band is a tool not a magic wand (my mantra). You have to let it work for you and you have to work with it by focusing on what you are putting in your mouth. Weight loss is not immediate and you will find yourself at times doubting your success--STICK WITH IT.

The ugly: Although I have not had it happen, but I would say PB's and sliming... can't get much uglier than that.

Further advice:

Stock up on things like liquid Tylenol, Gas-X strips and stool softner.

No Sugar Added Carnation Instant Breakfast and Skim milk will become your best friend (at least in the beginning)

Begin shopping the perimiter of the grocery store... skim milk, eggs, low-fat cheese and veggies, etc. (I do this first and then go back for whatever else I need)

and finally...

STAY CONNECTED TO THIS BOARD.... the advice and stories will keep you motivated...

GOOD LUCK!