hi, i am seriously thinking about getting the lap band surgery. i might not get it done until the end of may. i want to know what i need to do so that i can start doing what it is i need to do and get used to it. I've been overweight my entire life and I'm sick of it. can someone help me with some advice?

The biggest mistake people make, I think, is the last meal syndrome. One "last meal" isn't going to make a whole lot of difference weight wise, but having multiple last meals will add up. Generally, most people have little restriction for the first few months and are able to tolerate most foods. I'm at my ideal restriction, and I can still eat just about any type of food. That is a little unusual, but not unheard of. You won't be able to eat large meals again though.

The main change I made pre-band was limiting my soda's (carbonation) since I knew I wasn't supposed to drink them full fizz and regularly after banding.

If you're not in the habit of exercising, getting into a routine as you're able would be helpful. I was already walking a few days a week pre-band, and it was nice to already have that habit formed. Walking is a known gateway exercise..lol

All in all, knowing what I was getting into was the biggest help to me. I read, read, and read some more.

Best of luck to you!

Kiz is right about the last meal syndrome. I have thought that many times. It is a battle for me to stick to the doctor prescribed diet. My Doc wants me going low carb. Not every Doc does. They are all different. My doc gave me only 2 rules right now (preband) limit carbs to 30 per day and no snacking between meals. Lowering my carbs though has meant for me to give up regular soda. In the past month I have had 3 diet soda's I am not a huge fan of it. A good place to start is by going to an orientation. Many docs offer this in a group setting. It can give you a feel for the doc and how their office runs and an idea about what diet they recommend. Good luck.

Practice chewing each bite until it is applesauce consistency, which is about 35-30 chews. Also, don't drink with your meal. Stop 1/2 hour before you eat and then don't drink until 1/2 hour after you eat. After you are banded, if you drink with your meal, it will just flush your food through and you won't feel full. Good luck with the process!