One of the most important things to remember for long term weight-loss success is not to eat and drink at the same time. Drinking fluids while eating washes food from the pouch.

The longer you can go without washing food from your pouch, the longer you stay satisfied, and the less you want to eat, snack or graze. The experts in the field of bariatrics say that this is perhaps the biggest key to success.

For me, this was probably the hardest thing to put into practice after I had weight-loss surgery, but after a while, it became a habit.

It is, however, important to hydrate between meals. This gives us a great opportunity to stay full with summer coolers such as low-calorie or calorie-free beverages. 

Instead of focusing on NOT drinking while eating, change the focus to having a refreshing beverage treat in-between meals. Try adding watermelon and lemon juice to your water for a low calorie treat. Or add a cool splash of fruity flavors to unsweetened tea. Natural low calorie sweeteners, such as stevia, add a sweet refreshing alternative.

Yes, you can. You have many more miles to go!