Okay, I watch a lot of lap band patients on youtube and most of them seem to have an accountability partner.

So how many of you here have an accountability partner and if you do, how does he/she help to keep you on track?

I have been struggling for 5 days now and have gained some weight (not a lot though), but weight gain is not part of this journey.

Okay, I watch a lot of lap band patients on youtube and most of them seem to have an accountability partner.

So how many of you here have an accountability partner and if you do, how does he/she help to keep you on track?

I have been struggling for 5 days now and have gained some weight (not a lot though), but weight gain is not part of this journey.

I like this idea. My accountability efforts are taken by keeping track of my food intake and exercise in a software program...but that isn't the same as having a person to talk with.

If you're gaining weight, start writing down what you're eating. The calories add up fast. Also, track your exercise. The math doesn't lie. Your energy output must exceed your energy consumed. Of course it won't always look that way ("I ate two pieces of cake and didn't gain anything!" --) but the long-term trend will show what you are doing.

Sugar is a hidden ingredient in most processed, packaged foods. Find out where it is in your diet and then avoid it as much as possible. Fresh squeezed juices or plain ol' fruit are best but even then, dilute a bit with water (the juice) ....

You will win in the long run if you're doing eating right. You only HELP yourself when you write down what you're consuming and doing exercise-wise. The win won't happen over-night. But you WILL win........ Hang in there!

Also, remember, the number on the scale is only one indicator. How do your clothes fit? How are you feeling?

I take a powder protein supplement that is dynamite for me. I think the protein intake is really important, more than we give it credit for.

OK....onward and upwa....I mean downward!

I like the idea of an accountability partner too - I think that the more help we can get, the better. My hospital has a support group that meets once a month. While the once a month is great for my schedule, I sometimes wish it were more frequent. That, and I wish it were closer! Anyway, maybe we can find accountability partners here?

Jess