Everyone here has great ideas. This site has helped me out tremendously! Thank you all for your info and support! The preop diet varies from Doctor to Doctor. My boyfriend is going to be banded November 20th by Dr. Zoe Deol in Troy Michigan at William Beaumont Hospital. He had to be on the Optifast diet four weeks prior to the surgery. Five more days to go. This diet consisted of liquid shakes and protein bars. So far he's lost 22 pounds. He drinks alot of water and also Crystal Light is a good one to keep the hunger down. Sugar free popicles are a good idea too. Hard candy works well also, as well as keeping busy and keeping your mind off food. I am his support person and I have to say that it's been very difficult watching him go through all of this, but I'm very proud of him for giving up the three things he loved most, which were, smoking, food and beer! The Optifast is expensive, and you can only get it through your Nutritionist. Good luck!