Pre-Op Diet.......here we go!

Stopped all soft drinks on Saturday and started the preop diet on Monday and already down 7 pounds in 4 days. Amazed how much better my tummy feels. Not so full and bloated. On the plane to El Paso in exactly 10 days to Juarez.

Here are my tips that have helped me successfully start the pre-op diet so far:

1. I did tons of research on pre-op diets. Read up on the how and why and most importantly made sure I really understood the "number" limitations (calorie, fat, net carbs, protein etc.). I took notes. Made sure I went to every single website of the recommended brands of protein shakes, bars, liquids etc. Spent countless hours comparing price and content. Sounds like a lot I know but.....has made for a very smooth transition into my new eating lifestyle.

2. Portion control is going to be critical for the rest of my life. Suggestions on surgery sites, blogs, support groups etc said to use the small kid size plates, bowls and utensils. I was actually excited about that. I am a teacher of young children (K-2) and super girly so I couldn't wait to have cute kids dishes. I have found awesome deals at Target (cutest dishes in the $1.00 bins), Walmart (kid utensils: 2 for .96 cent) etc. My other crazy obsession is Bento Boxes. This hip Asian craze has landed in the US and boy they are cute. But for me it is also about being easy, practical, and appropriate for my new lifestyle. I think when you see what I am talking about Here are some sites that sell the Bento Boxes and accessories:

Laptop Lunches

Bento USA

Ebay (My fav place to shop for Bento things)

From-japan-with-love (Overseas but great for ideas)

Now if you checked out the sites you noticed how pricey these little cute lunch boxes can be. I'm practical and resourceful. After all my research on the Bento concept and see how costly something so basic could be. I spent an hour at Target last nite making my own Bento box using cute little colorful containers from the $1 bins and the perfect length, height and width rubbermade containers. So fun. Have used them the past 2 days and has helped me plan and ensure I have the right portions of proteins, fruits, etc. Very cute too. I will post pics of my "Faux Bento" by the weekend.

3. My life is super busy, stressful and unpredictable. Hence part of the reason I struggle with my weight. So.....what works for me is precut, prepackaged items. Especially fruits and veggies. I know exactly how many calories, fat, protein, net carbs etc that I am getting. more expensive but less stress for me.

4. I shopped around and did TONS of comparison to try to get what I needed yet at the best price. I was able to get 75 mixed Atkins bars (NOT expired) on Ebay for $50. This also included several coupons, a carb counter, etc. GNC is EXPENSIVE. Shop and compare there as well. I was able to get "most" of what I needed at Target, Walmart and Ebay. I really really do want to try out the liquid clear drinks at GNC (Isolate Clear Zero I think??).

5. I spend hours watching testimonials on YouTube of all places. That is how I learned about BeLiteWeight. I also watched several sleevers pre and post journey and learned a lot. One of my fav is a guy who actually tastes his Isolate Clear drinks one at a time on the video so he can tell which ones he liked. He recommended the Apple and Orange flavors. So that is where I will start when I do finally get them at GNC.

6. Greek Yogurt has been my FAV! I already liked it before I started this journey. So wasn't a bad addition into my plan at all and such a super easy way to get a lot of protein. Yesterday I measured out my portion of the yogurt, added my serving of vanilla flavored protein powder and sliced fresh strawberries on top. Was my lunch but tasted like Cheesecake! Delish!!

Will post more as I continue on my pre op diet the next 10 days!!