Serves: 8
2 cups fat free milk
2 cups dry couscous
¼ cup almonds, slivered
1/3 cup fresh pears, peeled and chopped
1/3 cup fresh apples, peeled and chopped
2 Tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Directions:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, honey and cinnamon.
As soon as it comes to a boil, stir in the couscous.
Turn off the heat, cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
Stir in the pears, apples, and almonds.
Serve warm.
Nutrition: calories 230, calories from fat 20, 2g fat, cholesterol 0mg, sodium 35mg, carbohydrate 43g, dietary fiber 3g, sugars 8g, protein 8g.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Poblano Mexi Chicken Stew
Serves: 10
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup celery, chopped
½ cup carrots, chopped
1 cup onions, chopped
1 poblano pepper, chopped fine
3 cloves garlic, chopped fine
2 tablespoon flour
5 tomatoes, cut in half and seeds removed and chopped
1 cup frozen corn
1 can low sodium black beans, drained
1 pound boneless skinless chicken, cut into ¼ inch cubes
½ gallon low sodium chicken stock
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions:
In a large stock pot over medium high heat add oil.
Once oil is heated add celery, carrots, onions, poblano pepper, and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes.
Next add the chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and flour and sauté an additional 3 minutes.
Add tomatoes, corn, black beans, chicken, and chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
Turn heat to medium low and simmer for an additional 45 minutes remembering to stir occasionally to keep the food from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Remove from heat and add fresh cilantro and serve.
Serve.
Note: This freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition: calories 170, calories from fat 30, 3.5g fat, cholesterol 25mg, sodium 610mg, carbohydrate 21g, dietary fiber 4g, protein 18g.
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup celery, chopped
½ cup carrots, chopped
1 cup onions, chopped
1 poblano pepper, chopped fine
3 cloves garlic, chopped fine
2 tablespoon flour
5 tomatoes, cut in half and seeds removed and chopped
1 cup frozen corn
1 can low sodium black beans, drained
1 pound boneless skinless chicken, cut into ¼ inch cubes
½ gallon low sodium chicken stock
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions:
In a large stock pot over medium high heat add oil.
Once oil is heated add celery, carrots, onions, poblano pepper, and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes.
Next add the chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and flour and sauté an additional 3 minutes.
Add tomatoes, corn, black beans, chicken, and chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
Turn heat to medium low and simmer for an additional 45 minutes remembering to stir occasionally to keep the food from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Remove from heat and add fresh cilantro and serve.
Serve.
Note: This freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition: calories 170, calories from fat 30, 3.5g fat, cholesterol 25mg, sodium 610mg, carbohydrate 21g, dietary fiber 4g, protein 18g.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Just Some Information
I read your post about your trip too the Dr. and the broken toe, I decided to put some info on here about Gastric Bypass and Lap Band. You are right about wanting to try to loose some on your own, if you can loose some on your own it is better and healthier that way.
I don't regret having my surgery now, but for a month or so after I had it I cried a lot because I was dehydrated and light headed and dizzy all the time. I have had diarrhea almost every day since, but that is not a side affect, that is my body being stupid. I will do what ever I can to give you the support that you need to keep you going.
I don't regret having my surgery now, but for a month or so after I had it I cried a lot because I was dehydrated and light headed and dizzy all the time. I have had diarrhea almost every day since, but that is not a side affect, that is my body being stupid. I will do what ever I can to give you the support that you need to keep you going.
Nurse's Guide - Is Lap Band Surgery Right For You? By Helen Hecker
You may have come to the point at which you're not sure which way to turn. You've tried diets and nothing seems to work for one reason or another. At this point some people turn to the Lap-Band system or other adjustable gastric banding as a temporary solution to their weight loss problems. Yes it is surgery and major elective surgery should always be considered carefully. However it's a better alternative to gastric bypass surgery, which is permanent.
The LAP-BAND System has been around since it received approval from the FDA in June of 2001, for use in the US. The choice for anyone to undergo any type of weight loss surgery should not only be a carefully thought out medical decision but a consideration of the total costs, whether or not covered by insurance, as well. Adjustable gastric banding, including the Lap Band, is a form of restrictive bariatric or weight loss surgery designed for patients with obesity problems with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater or between 35 and 40 for those who have conditions that have been known to improve after losing weight.
Bariatric surgeons have certain criteria they use to determine whether one can be considered for lap band surgery. For example, emotionally unstable people can't be considered for lap band surgery. In order to be considered one must completely understand the risks and benefits of the gastric band procedure and have a willingness to follow the substantial lifetime dietary restrictions required for long term success. Generally the failure of dietary or weight-loss drug therapy, if that has been tried, for more than one year can make one eligible for the adjustable gastric band procedure. If someone has a dependency on alcohol, pain killers or prescription or hard drugs, they won't be eligible for adjustable band surgery.
In general, gastric banding, which includes the Lap Band procedure and weight loss system is indicated for people with a Body Mass Index above 40, as mentioned, or those who are 100 pounds (45 kg) or more over their estimated ideal weight according to the Tables from the1983 Metropolitan Life Insurance Tables which are still used today, or for those between 30 to 40 years of age with what are called co-morbidities (high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and arthritis) which may improve with weight loss.
The following may explain part of the procedure in this short space. Lap band before and after pictures or photos or a video would give you a better idea and those should be available with a little bit of research and I strongly recommend this. You want to have a full and complete understanding of what takes place in this surgery as it will affect you in many ways for years to come.
.
The adjustable gastric band or Lap Band is an inflatable silicone prosthetic device which is placed around the top portion of the stomach using what is called keyhole laparoscopic surgery, which is exactly what it says - an insertion through a keyhole size incision. A side note: If the adjustable gastric band post-surgical patient is considering becoming pregnant, ideally the patient should be in the best nutritional condition prior to conception and deflation of the band may be required prior to the planned conception.
The bariatric or lap band surgeon uses a specialized needle is to avoid damage to the port membrane. The band is inflated and adjusted via a small access port placed just under the skin subcutaneously. A radiopaque isotonic solution or saline solution is introduced into the band by way of the port. As the upper part of the stomach thinks it's full the message the brain is receiving is that the stomach is full and this sensation helps the person eat smaller portions and lose weight over time. Now when fluid is introduced into the stomach the lap band will expand, placing pressure around the outside of the stomach. This will decrease the size of the passage in the stomach and restrict the movement of any food.
There will be a diet to follow initially. Regaining weight can happen with any surgical weight loss procedure including the more radical procedures that initially result in rapid weight loss. Some patients may find that that before their first 'fill' they are still able to eat fairly large portions.
Regarding pregnancy: the lap band may remain deflated during pregnancy and once breast feeding or bottle-feeding is completed the band may be gradually re-inflated to help with postpartum weight loss if needed.
The World Health Organization recommendation for monthly weight loss is about 1.1 to 2.2 pounds each week and an average gastric banded patient may or may not lose this amount. Using the proper and most sensitive adjustment of the gastric band is essential to weight loss and the long term success of the lap band procedure.
Complications like slippage can occur over time, which is an unusual occurrence where the lower part of the stomach may prolapse over the band and cause an obstruction. Adjustable gastric band problems or lap band complications that can occur are: erosion, abdominal pain, loss of strength, infection, fever, hernia, pain, chest pain, incisional infection, incision pain, and even death.
A very common occurrence for lap band patients is the regurgitation of non-acidic swallowed food from the upper pouch, commonly known as productive burping, which is not normal. And erosion can occur where the band may wear a small area on the outside of the stomach which can lead to the migration of the band to the inside of the stomach.
Many patients choose to travel to Mexico and other countries for low cost lap band surgery. In the US, Houston, Texas is a popular place. The amount you pay for your surgery will vary. There isn't a set price for lap band surgery. Financing may be available if insurance doesn't cover it. The adjustable gastric band surgery is fully reversible, has a short hospital stay and there is usually a quick recovery. Reading lap band success stories or testimonials may help you in making a decision. Blogs or forums may be of help. Think it through very carefully if you decide to go ahead.
For information on lap band weight loss surgery and lap band surgery complications go to http://www.Lap-Band-Surgery-Info.com a nurse's website for tips on lap band surgery, adjustable gastric band surgery, medical travel for low cost lap band surgery and cost of lap band surgery
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helen_Hecker
The LAP-BAND System has been around since it received approval from the FDA in June of 2001, for use in the US. The choice for anyone to undergo any type of weight loss surgery should not only be a carefully thought out medical decision but a consideration of the total costs, whether or not covered by insurance, as well. Adjustable gastric banding, including the Lap Band, is a form of restrictive bariatric or weight loss surgery designed for patients with obesity problems with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater or between 35 and 40 for those who have conditions that have been known to improve after losing weight.
Bariatric surgeons have certain criteria they use to determine whether one can be considered for lap band surgery. For example, emotionally unstable people can't be considered for lap band surgery. In order to be considered one must completely understand the risks and benefits of the gastric band procedure and have a willingness to follow the substantial lifetime dietary restrictions required for long term success. Generally the failure of dietary or weight-loss drug therapy, if that has been tried, for more than one year can make one eligible for the adjustable gastric band procedure. If someone has a dependency on alcohol, pain killers or prescription or hard drugs, they won't be eligible for adjustable band surgery.
In general, gastric banding, which includes the Lap Band procedure and weight loss system is indicated for people with a Body Mass Index above 40, as mentioned, or those who are 100 pounds (45 kg) or more over their estimated ideal weight according to the Tables from the1983 Metropolitan Life Insurance Tables which are still used today, or for those between 30 to 40 years of age with what are called co-morbidities (high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and arthritis) which may improve with weight loss.
The following may explain part of the procedure in this short space. Lap band before and after pictures or photos or a video would give you a better idea and those should be available with a little bit of research and I strongly recommend this. You want to have a full and complete understanding of what takes place in this surgery as it will affect you in many ways for years to come.
.
The adjustable gastric band or Lap Band is an inflatable silicone prosthetic device which is placed around the top portion of the stomach using what is called keyhole laparoscopic surgery, which is exactly what it says - an insertion through a keyhole size incision. A side note: If the adjustable gastric band post-surgical patient is considering becoming pregnant, ideally the patient should be in the best nutritional condition prior to conception and deflation of the band may be required prior to the planned conception.
The bariatric or lap band surgeon uses a specialized needle is to avoid damage to the port membrane. The band is inflated and adjusted via a small access port placed just under the skin subcutaneously. A radiopaque isotonic solution or saline solution is introduced into the band by way of the port. As the upper part of the stomach thinks it's full the message the brain is receiving is that the stomach is full and this sensation helps the person eat smaller portions and lose weight over time. Now when fluid is introduced into the stomach the lap band will expand, placing pressure around the outside of the stomach. This will decrease the size of the passage in the stomach and restrict the movement of any food.
There will be a diet to follow initially. Regaining weight can happen with any surgical weight loss procedure including the more radical procedures that initially result in rapid weight loss. Some patients may find that that before their first 'fill' they are still able to eat fairly large portions.
Regarding pregnancy: the lap band may remain deflated during pregnancy and once breast feeding or bottle-feeding is completed the band may be gradually re-inflated to help with postpartum weight loss if needed.
The World Health Organization recommendation for monthly weight loss is about 1.1 to 2.2 pounds each week and an average gastric banded patient may or may not lose this amount. Using the proper and most sensitive adjustment of the gastric band is essential to weight loss and the long term success of the lap band procedure.
Complications like slippage can occur over time, which is an unusual occurrence where the lower part of the stomach may prolapse over the band and cause an obstruction. Adjustable gastric band problems or lap band complications that can occur are: erosion, abdominal pain, loss of strength, infection, fever, hernia, pain, chest pain, incisional infection, incision pain, and even death.
A very common occurrence for lap band patients is the regurgitation of non-acidic swallowed food from the upper pouch, commonly known as productive burping, which is not normal. And erosion can occur where the band may wear a small area on the outside of the stomach which can lead to the migration of the band to the inside of the stomach.
Many patients choose to travel to Mexico and other countries for low cost lap band surgery. In the US, Houston, Texas is a popular place. The amount you pay for your surgery will vary. There isn't a set price for lap band surgery. Financing may be available if insurance doesn't cover it. The adjustable gastric band surgery is fully reversible, has a short hospital stay and there is usually a quick recovery. Reading lap band success stories or testimonials may help you in making a decision. Blogs or forums may be of help. Think it through very carefully if you decide to go ahead.
For information on lap band weight loss surgery and lap band surgery complications go to http://www.Lap-Band-Surgery-Info.com a nurse's website for tips on lap band surgery, adjustable gastric band surgery, medical travel for low cost lap band surgery and cost of lap band surgery
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helen_Hecker
Is Gastric Bypass Right for You? By Dakota Caudilla
Gastric bypass is a form of weight-loss surgery done on a lot of Americans today. The reason is because more and more Americans are suffering from obesity and excessive weight problems. In some cases, a gastric bypass is the only way to make losing weight possible. For most of us, gastric bypass is merely an option. The American Society for Bariatric Surgery reports that there were more than 63,000 of such surgeries being done in the United States alone in the year 2002.
However, it is important to note that a Gastric Bypass is not the right surgery for everyone. Think carefully because a gastric bypass is a very important surgery. It is not the magical solution to your weight problems and you will need to do extensive research before you commit to it. We have to emphasize that Gastric Bypass has a very high rate of complications although the procedure may sound relatively simple and effortless. Most doctors who perform gastric bypass would advise the patient to undergo a low-calorie diet for at least 6 months before they go for gastric bypass surgery. Undergoing a gastric bypass surgery, you may have to bear with the consequence of a possible life-threatening complication as a result of the gastric bypass surgery. Your doctor would be in the best position to advice you on whether you’re right for gastric bypass. Emotional and physical issues may have to be taken into account because this is essential to your recovery after the gastric bypass surgery.
However, because of the many possible dangers of undergoing a gastric bypass surgery, the Bariatrics Society designed and launched a program called the mini gastric bypass surgery. The mini gastric bypass surgeries are the less extensive versions of the more commonly used gastric bypass surgery. The mini gastric bypass surgery actually reconfigures the stomach so that absorption of food is reduced irregardless of how much food that person consumed. A mini gastric bypass surgery also changes the way food is absorbed. The mini gastric bypass surgery takes a shorter time to perform and the recovery for the patient is quicker too. However, there aren’t that many researches and studies done on mini gastric bypass surgeries as opposed to a major gastric bypass surgeries, therefore, many insurance companies cover the major gastric bypass surgery but not the mini gastric bypass surgery!
Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of [http://www.obesity-solutions.net] on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.
Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of [http://www.obesity-solutions.net] on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dakota_Caudilla
However, it is important to note that a Gastric Bypass is not the right surgery for everyone. Think carefully because a gastric bypass is a very important surgery. It is not the magical solution to your weight problems and you will need to do extensive research before you commit to it. We have to emphasize that Gastric Bypass has a very high rate of complications although the procedure may sound relatively simple and effortless. Most doctors who perform gastric bypass would advise the patient to undergo a low-calorie diet for at least 6 months before they go for gastric bypass surgery. Undergoing a gastric bypass surgery, you may have to bear with the consequence of a possible life-threatening complication as a result of the gastric bypass surgery. Your doctor would be in the best position to advice you on whether you’re right for gastric bypass. Emotional and physical issues may have to be taken into account because this is essential to your recovery after the gastric bypass surgery.
However, because of the many possible dangers of undergoing a gastric bypass surgery, the Bariatrics Society designed and launched a program called the mini gastric bypass surgery. The mini gastric bypass surgeries are the less extensive versions of the more commonly used gastric bypass surgery. The mini gastric bypass surgery actually reconfigures the stomach so that absorption of food is reduced irregardless of how much food that person consumed. A mini gastric bypass surgery also changes the way food is absorbed. The mini gastric bypass surgery takes a shorter time to perform and the recovery for the patient is quicker too. However, there aren’t that many researches and studies done on mini gastric bypass surgeries as opposed to a major gastric bypass surgeries, therefore, many insurance companies cover the major gastric bypass surgery but not the mini gastric bypass surgery!
Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of [http://www.obesity-solutions.net] on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.
Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of [http://www.obesity-solutions.net] on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dakota_Caudilla
Monday, February 22, 2010
MIA Update.....
I have not posted on here in a LONG time, one of the reason's is that I have been stuck at the same weight for over a year. Yes I am complaining about that, I shouldn't I have Never Been able to maintain my weight ever in my life. I have been a little frustrated and discouraged because I am not down more than I am, I have lost 170 LBS and I feel wonderful but I still have quit a bit more too loose.
a year ago I hurt my back, I have three Bulging Disc's and four Herniated Disc's and a narrowing of the spinal column. I know that it sounds really bad, but honestly I have to tell you that I am in pain (a great deal of pain) but it isn't too the point that I can't handle it. I did have some one ask me one day how I was up walking.
I watched my Best Friend Jackie Hutchison, completely deteriorate in four years and die. She had a Bulging disc in her back and had it operated on, they put pins and a rod in her back and she was never the same. Towards the End of her life she was going to a pain clinic and they had her too many pain medications and it resulted in her death.
There are many reason's why I am staled in my weight loss, I am trying to find a work out that is good for me physically that wont kill my back when I work out. You will notice on my blog I have been putting articles on Yoga and Pilates, and high protein diets and the new fad diet HCG which I will stat here that I am not a fan of. I have been told that both will be beneficial for weight loss and strengthening my back.
I am hoping that I can get some new ideas from all of you to help me on my way down the scales again. I have always liked the idea of this blog and think that it has been very beneficial for me. It is easier to loose weight and stay positive when you aren't doing it alone and you have other people who have the same goals and you can exchange ideas and information with.
I get some weight loss magazines in the mail and they have some great recipes in them I will post them on here and share them with you all. Keep in mind though that they are for Gastric Bypass patients, but you can use them as well. They have Nutritional content and everything. I will work on getting them typed up!
Cheers!
A journey of a 1000 miles begins with 1 step!
a year ago I hurt my back, I have three Bulging Disc's and four Herniated Disc's and a narrowing of the spinal column. I know that it sounds really bad, but honestly I have to tell you that I am in pain (a great deal of pain) but it isn't too the point that I can't handle it. I did have some one ask me one day how I was up walking.
I watched my Best Friend Jackie Hutchison, completely deteriorate in four years and die. She had a Bulging disc in her back and had it operated on, they put pins and a rod in her back and she was never the same. Towards the End of her life she was going to a pain clinic and they had her too many pain medications and it resulted in her death.
There are many reason's why I am staled in my weight loss, I am trying to find a work out that is good for me physically that wont kill my back when I work out. You will notice on my blog I have been putting articles on Yoga and Pilates, and high protein diets and the new fad diet HCG which I will stat here that I am not a fan of. I have been told that both will be beneficial for weight loss and strengthening my back.
I am hoping that I can get some new ideas from all of you to help me on my way down the scales again. I have always liked the idea of this blog and think that it has been very beneficial for me. It is easier to loose weight and stay positive when you aren't doing it alone and you have other people who have the same goals and you can exchange ideas and information with.
I get some weight loss magazines in the mail and they have some great recipes in them I will post them on here and share them with you all. Keep in mind though that they are for Gastric Bypass patients, but you can use them as well. They have Nutritional content and everything. I will work on getting them typed up!
Cheers!
A journey of a 1000 miles begins with 1 step!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
So how are all you doing???
How is everyone doing? I am just starting to go back to the gym thanks to some lovely ladies at church that joined the gym near me. It is so much more motivating to go work out when you know a friendly face will be sweating next to yours!
I am having a hard time loosing one more pound to break through to a new set of "10" that I need to loose, but I know I need to be eating better. Self discipline is kicking my butt and I need to kick back stronger.
I am having a hard time loosing one more pound to break through to a new set of "10" that I need to loose, but I know I need to be eating better. Self discipline is kicking my butt and I need to kick back stronger.
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