1. Eat protein first, then fruits and vegetables, then starches.  Eat three meals a day.  Spend only 20 minutes eating.  Stop eating when full or when time is up.
   
   
   
2.  Drink at least six 8 oz. glasses of water a day.  You do not need to become dehydrated
   
   
3. You must drink your protein shake and your vitamin supplements each day; at least 1-2 protein shakes a day and one chewable vitamin a day.
   
   
   
   
4. Do Not snack in between meals.
   
   
   
   
5. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day.
   
   
   
   
6. Keep a diet log of what you have been eating, so that if you are not losing weight appropriately, we will know how to help you improve this.
   
   
   
   
7. Make monthly appointments to see Dr. Patel in the office.
   
   
   
   
8. Call if there are any concerns or questions about what to eat, especially if what you have eaten is causing you pain or vomiting.
   
   
   
   
9. Be proud of yourself; this is the first big step toward a new healthy lifestyle.
   
   
   
   
10. Lastly, if you find that you are not having regular bowel movements, you  can take Metamucil or Milk of Magnesia as directed.
     

These rules are designed for a reason.  Statistics have shown that patient's who follow the 10 rules above will have a better transition period during their first year post-operative than those who don't follow them.  It is extremely important to document your diet, as this will allow us to schedule your periodic adjustments to your Lap-Band System.  Water is so very important too.  You must drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and do not forget your protein.

If at any time you have any difficulty with your Lap-Band System, do not hesitate to contact our office.  Dr. Patel is always on call and we will address every issue with the upmost importance.