Regarding pouch rules.......

Do you have to water load with water? Can it be a beverage that Dr.A allows.... such as flavored water or crystal light or any other beverage that is 10 calories or less per serving? Thanks for the help, Chrissy

Water loading can be achieved with any non caloried or extremely low caloried bevg that is not carbonated, as far as I'm aware. Are you thinking aobut using it to help you with difficulties with hunger?

Yes, I just had a follow up with Dr. A. He gave me the sheet that had the guidelines about fork and knife eating and water loading and others... so I guess I am just looking to see what works for others and try them. Thank you for your post! Chrissy

I have a different doctor but if u can.... can u copy and email me that sheet that your doctor gave you I would love to read the guidelines. I am 2 months out and I have only lost 42 pounds ....I am at a stand still and I want to know if I am doing something wrong I have not lost any weight since May 6th.

What is water loading?

I water load using concentrated Crystal Lite (the bloat from the beverage and the extra tartness from the concentration I make work together and seem to be very effective). Also, and I appreciate that some surgeons have express prohibitions on diet soda, I will sometimes (not always, but just sometimes, and only after discussing it with my doctor) use a little Diet Coke (not a guzzled can, but a few healthy sips) to get a feeling of fullness to stave off hunger.