Question:
What do you do if you can't remember dates or years?

I have to do a detailed diet history for my surgeon. My problem is, I have been on so many diets since I was 10 (I'm now 32) I can't remember them all. I don't remember when, what or how much I lost and gained back. All I remember is that I have been doing the yo yo thing since I was very young. Can anyone help?    — Nancy S. (posted on April 13, 2003)

April 13, 2003
If you're like me you had some "biggies", diets that you definitely remember and can relate to a time in your life. If you can focus on narrowing down those dates it'll help by giving you dates to fill in between. Also perhaps if you saw doctors while you dieted you can get some info from your records. And if you weren't seeing a doctor, who will know the difference if you're off a couple of months on some of your diets. As long as you're trying to be honest and can provide your doctor with a list that shows you've tried that many diets over the years you should be fine.
   — Shelly S.

April 13, 2003
Nancy- I had the same problem. Hear is what I did. I first just wrote out the different diets I had been on. Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, grapefruit, etc. Then I thought about how many times I tried each. Weight Watchers 3 times. Then I went through and list the estimates time frames on the ones I coulf remember. Whatever was left over I used to fill in the blanks. They aren't lookin for specific dates, just general time frames, estimate of how much you lost, and list how much you gained back (this should be larger then the weight you lost.) Best wishes.
   — Cheryl S.

April 13, 2003
I used the last 5 diets that I was on. The Drs that you used for them probabally have the notes from your consultations and can provide you with dates and names which you gave them at that time. I am assuming that you are speaking of Dr approved diets. They are the only ones that my medical insurance would count. They don't put much weight to something that you say about your health. Isn't that crazy. Good lux
   — Robert L.