Aside from all the tests you have to go through, St Joe's in Nashua, NH requires exercise logs, food logs and proof that you have worked the "Habits not Diets" book in an effort to change the habits that need changing before the surgery.

I started the book in July. Recommended to do just one chapter per week so it can be internalized. It is a workbook. I was doing fine until Chapter 8. I started feeling overwhelmed and took a break. About a month later I went back and was able to start up again. It takes 20 weeks to do this book.

The hospital wants to take no chances that people will not be in the right place when they have the surgery. I have been going to the meetings since January 2003. I look forward to them and have met some real nice people there.

I got the book at Barnes & Noble. But I am sure you can order it anywhere.

Has anyone else done this book or another workbook that accomplishes the same thing?

what an interesting idea!!! we ALL are told - and we remind each other - that we have to change what's going on in our heads, we have to exercise, drink water, not eat emotionally, etc etc etc. but i had no idea that anyone had formalized it into a workbook!

how long does it take someone to usually work through the book? or is there a time limit? how does this work?

Well, there's 21 chapters and they recommend 1 chapter a week. BUT you should do it at your own pace. It may take longer for a chapter that is harder to deal with. In the beginning a lot of the exercises are about awareness. It's been a big help.

By the way, the book was written 25 years ago and was just republished this year with updates. Habits are timeless when it comes to food.

That sounds like a great idea. Thanks for sharing I think I am going to order it to. If anyone else decides to order it I found it for $11.49 at overstock.com and shipping is only $1.40 on one book. MUCH cheaper than other places I have been looking at them for all my books lately and they have had alot of them way cheaper than other places.