For two years, she told the world her dramatic weight loss was the result of nothing more than iron will, exercise and healthy eating. But now This Morning presenter Fern Britton has confessed she reduced her figure from a size 22 to a 16 with more than a little help from a gastric band to dramatically reduce its capacity.

So what is it like to have a gastric band operation? Elizabeth Allen, 42, lives in Richmond, Surrey, and runs a lifestyle management service. She is married to David, 45, a sales manager, and they have no children. Here, in a brutally frank diary, Elizabeth describes how a £7,000 gastric band had a dramatic effect on her, too…

June 2006
Like many women, I’ve always had weight problems. But after a car crash 20 years ago I was left with long-term ankle problems. Unable to walk for six months, my weight shot up to 14st and size 18.

About six years ago, I decided to get fit. So, I went to the gym and lost almost two stone. Then I had another problem with my ankle. I’ve also suffered a lot of stress setting up my own business.

I don’t drink, smoke or do drugs and my one comfort is food. I’m bigger than I’ve ever been, and finally have to admit I’m fat. In just 12 months, I’ve put on more than 4st. I look awful.

July 2006
I’m seeing a dietitian. First, we go through everything I eat in a day. I usually skip breakfast, then at 10am I have a bag of crisps. Lunchtime will be a chicken and stuffing sandwich from M&S, then some chocolate…

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Find out more about gastric band surgery by visiting Vita Clinics website. www.vitaclinics.co.uk