A couple of points, here. Don't drink too much while eating, as it does detrract from the nutrients you should be absorbing. I usually drink a litre maybe, an hour or so before eating. Also, you don't want to be losing too much too quickly. That usually means deprivation, and you'll probably gain it back. What's the quote about slowly changing your habits? Also, why do you play basketball only once a month? So, if you're just under six feet varmint, how tall is vengroff???