Hi Grammy:
I feel your desperation, i too felt that way. I'll try to answer your questions from my standpoint.
I think this band is a radical lifestyle change. I believe very firmly this will work. I believe that's the attitude you must have in any "diet" for it to work well. What makes this different? I can only speak for myself but having had the band surgery 5 weeks ago I think what I've found most helpful is this forum. I also think the reality of the restriction, once you reach your "sweet" spot will absolutely decrease the amount of food you eat to 1/3 or so of what we used to take in. Mind you it's no miracle. You still have to make good food choices, exercise, drink water and follow a healthy plan. I believe for me this is my last effort to lose this 80-100 pounds forever. It does not happen overnight. I look at this as a 1-2 year process. I think the more informed you are and stay informed the more ift will work. I come to this forum DAILY to keep encouraged and on the right track. It works if you work it, not magically by itself.
So I hope that helps. I am sure others will add much more insightful stuff but this is what is working for me!!
:lb11: