Help I'm new!

After 3 years of thinking and doing some research I'm ready. I went to a introduction class with the surgen and have my first appointment in two weeks. I called my insurance (BCBS-DE )and I have to do 6 months of structured diet program (I don't know what would qualify?)

What do you all suggest I do from here - start dieting?
How do I use the next 6-8 months to prepeare for the surgery and for the rest of my life?

I really would appreciate some input here.

Hello, The first thing I would suggest is calling your insurance company back and finding out what they consider “A structured diet program" is. What will they accept, ask them to send you all the requirements and take that with you to your first appointment.  

For me, my insurance stated I needed to have 6 months of consecutive (couldn’t miss one) doctor nutrition visits, in addition to what the doctor asked me to do. You will learn more after your first appointment and may have a clearer understanding.  

You didn’t state what type of surgery you are going to have gastric bypass or lap ban?  

I had the bypass, so to prepare I started weaning myself off pop, drinking more water, started chewing my food more,  stop drinking with my meals. It wasn’t mandatory for me “lose weight" before surgery, however 10 days before surgery I did go on a liquid diet to shrink my liver.     Those are just a few things before your appointment.  

I have to say after 7 months and losing 107 pounds the only regret I have is that I didn’t do this sooner.   

Congratulations on taking the first step to a healthier you!!

Kim

As far as the 6 month diet plan, Have you already done that with a Doctor? My doctor signed a statement that I had actually done a few diet's with him over many years......

Get everything documented, see your general Doctor, get him/her on board for your surgery....You will need all the help you can get.....

For the next 6-8 months, start to cut out pop, smoking, bad habits.....It will help you in the long run...

Kelly

Wow - thanks - someone is there!

I'm having an RNY, because I think that is best for me. I'm a guy so I never go to the doctor unless I'm dying (that will have to change). I have NO track record of documented dieting.
I have lost 100 lbs x 2 on my own and I'm sure I have lost 30-40 lbs x 10. Jo-Jo - Every time I have gained what I have lost + then some and now I'm scared for my health.

I  don't smoke and hardly drink and I cut out pop about 2 years ago. I guess I will work on chewing my food not not drink during meal time.

Thanks for your reply - It is great knowing there is someone out there...........

A few of the people on here had Dr. Glass, Carol and Connie, I hope they will say Hi to you also....

There are some of us that meet for coffee on Saturdays at Crossroads mall in St. Cloud, it's fun and good support.....You should come....  We could try to answer any questions you have, etc......

Kelly

There are lots of us out here, and we'll all be around to cheer you on as you go on this fantastic journey!   Good luck!

Tuna

Hello and welcome to the MN board!!

I also had/have Dr Glass as my surgeon. What a wonderful man and surgeon!! He has the best nutritionist...Kristin...she is so helpful and will guide you along the way.

Start attending the support group meetings given by Kristen ....they are at the St Cloud Hospital...they are really helpful....the support is great!!!

Yes, you do have to have documented 6 month diet with a doctor. The insurance company requires that. You don't necessailly have to lose weight you just can't gain any during that time. They want to see how well you follow those guidelines and if they feel you will follow the rules after WLS.

WLS saved my life....I wish you the best....you won't be sorry!!

I will be glad to help you in anyway I can.

Hugs....connie d

 Get your head on right and know this is for LIFE! Don't do it to "get thin quick". Be mindful of cross addictions with the RNY and have a support system at home.

 Most people do not get their brain prepped for this, so take the time now and do your self a favor. Get your head in the game just as much as your heart.

 Good luck!

Hey, sweet thang -

Please don't take my question wrong, I'm only asking because you did more WLS research than anyone else I know (myself included!)

Is cross-addicting unique to RNY? 

 Darla - no, not necessarily. But I have seen it more with RNY to be honest than any of the other procedures out there. Every single person going in to any WLS procedure should be mindful of it, but most people don't tell you about it. I've just seen too many train wrecks...and it's time we get honest here.