The manufacturers of the bands have ""rules"" or ""tips"" posted on their websites.  What I learned from my fellow members of the Banded Living™ community is that  1) a lot of us don't like ""rules"" because we've tried them before and frankly they didn't work as a way of life and; 2) we are all different, and we need to work hard to find what works ""for me.""

My doctor, my head coach on this banded living journey reminds me over and over again, that it's a tool, and I need to work it.  I shouldn't expect ""it"" to do anything.  (A screwdriver can't remove a screw unless you turn it.) I have to work it to get the results I want - and for me that was more than the average 50% Excess Weight Loss.  My band helps me with portion control, controls my hunger, and leaves me with a feeling of satiety when I work it.  This is my version of ""the rules.""  Some patients have decided to post this on their refrigerator as a reminder.  As always check with your doctor.  Here are the 10 things I learned about how to use my tool:

1. I stay close to my surgeon and his staff. I have a whole team of people to help me on my journey. It starts with my surgeon who is my head coach. I also surround myself with other successful members of the Banded Living community.
2. I don't drink with meals. It defeats the band.
3. I make sure I get enough protein everyday. For me that is 80 grams or more.
4. I eat good quality meals and I don't graze. I do best when I eat for 20 -30 minutes and leave the table.
5. I don't drink my calories - my properly adjusted band helps with portion control but only if I am eating solid foods. (It doesn't restrict ice cream or a high calorie frappuccino, or Long Island Iced Tea).
6. I've learned to take small bites and chew, chew, chew. I also use small plates.
7. I've learned what foods are difficult for me, and I stay away from those choices. I have lots of great choices. I've learned to dine and enjoy food again.
8. I always have a plan or a least a plan B, each and every day for how I am going to use my tool. NO EXCUSES. I'm not afraid to carry food with me (Ziploc bags are my friends), or ask a hotel to open the gym at 5:00 am because I'm traveling and have an early meeting.
9. I journal when I need to. I journaled consistently during my first year of Banded Living. When I wander off track, or gain a few pounds, I go back to basics and journal for a while. It helps me stay in my target weight range by keeping me accountable to myself.
10. I make myself a priority. I take care of my health, I eat right, I exercise, I take my vitamins...and live my life to the fullest!