As Thanksgiving approaches I find myself reflecting on some of the reasons I am Thankful!
• My 2 wonderful children (that I am so proud of. Both of which are graduating from college in 2010).
• My sweetheart Pete, he makes me laugh and I love the way he holds me so tight!
• My family and friends.
• My Health; being able to lose weight and for the first time in my life being able to maintain the weight loss. The ability to physically do things that I have always dreamed of doing. Being blessed to be able to help others lose weight and get healthy.
• I am thankful for the freedom to my own beliefs and have my own thoughts.
• I am thankful for our Dog; Lucky she is my walking buddy and would protect me from anything or anyone.
• I'm thankful for the Internet. The Internet has opened so many doors for me. Also, sites like Facebook have allowed me to get in touch with old friends and make new ones. And in the way we are all so busy it keeps us connected.
• I am thankful for all the kind people in this world.
• I am thankful to know that God is always with me, guiding me to make the right decisions and showing me how to help others.
• I am thankful for the beautiful world we live in; it amazes me sometimes as to how many different types of plants, animals, butterflies, and even different people there are. We have beautiful beaches, mountains, waterfalls etc. God really has an incredible imagination!
I know life is not always a rose garden and if it is, there are always some thorns. But if we take the time to smell the roses every now and then, it makes life so much sweeter! Remember we are not guaranteed tomorrow, so make sure you enjoy today and give thanks for all our blessings.
So, what are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?
Happy Thanksgiving,
Ginger
Monday, November 23, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
Comfort Food Really Isn't Comfort is it!!!
You know when you have those day.....when everything is just going wrong. The stress, the emotional ups and downs, with work, (or lack of work) family, friends, etc. So, many times when these things are going on, you just want to turn to that old friend....that is always there to comfort you. FOOD!! It is legal and you can find it anywhere.
Food is so convenient you can drive through somewhere and even eat it in your car when you are running around like crazy getting everything done!!! And know one even has to know you did it!! Except you....then a short time after eating it you feel terrible...usually worse than you did before you ate it! Oh, yes I do know that feeling quit well.
I know you know what I am talking about! This is such a hard habit to change....as I am going through something stressful right now...I did actually think about comforting myself with food....drive through McDonald's get something good and greasy!!! Who would know....that little devil sits on my shoulder and tries to temp me all the time...but thank goodness I have that little angel on the other shoulder saying....You know there are better ways to comfort yourself. Call someone who cares, turn on the radio and sing along with one of your favorite songs...loud enough you can't hear the devil!!!! LOL
Yes, even after almost 9 years I am still tormented by those old thoughts. I think I probably will be for the test of my life. However, by practicing good habits and always thinking of alternatives, I am usually very successful at not letting it rule me or my life! I HAVE EMPOWERED MYSELF TO BE IN CONTROL!!!
So, the next time that little devil sits on your shoulder and tries to take control. Knock him off and remember you can be in control too!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
Food is so convenient you can drive through somewhere and even eat it in your car when you are running around like crazy getting everything done!!! And know one even has to know you did it!! Except you....then a short time after eating it you feel terrible...usually worse than you did before you ate it! Oh, yes I do know that feeling quit well.
I know you know what I am talking about! This is such a hard habit to change....as I am going through something stressful right now...I did actually think about comforting myself with food....drive through McDonald's get something good and greasy!!! Who would know....that little devil sits on my shoulder and tries to temp me all the time...but thank goodness I have that little angel on the other shoulder saying....You know there are better ways to comfort yourself. Call someone who cares, turn on the radio and sing along with one of your favorite songs...loud enough you can't hear the devil!!!! LOL
Yes, even after almost 9 years I am still tormented by those old thoughts. I think I probably will be for the test of my life. However, by practicing good habits and always thinking of alternatives, I am usually very successful at not letting it rule me or my life! I HAVE EMPOWERED MYSELF TO BE IN CONTROL!!!
So, the next time that little devil sits on your shoulder and tries to take control. Knock him off and remember you can be in control too!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Breaking a Plateau
I am almost 9 years out from surgery. Everyday, I think about what I am putting in my mouth. I know if I eat too much and don’t exercise I will gain weight. I AM LIKE EVERYONE ELSE (like people who have not had the surgery)!!!!
So, many people have weight loss surgery and think. This is the answer, this is the magic pill….I am sorry to say…..they are so wrong…..initially, yes, the weight comes off pretty easily……but as time goes on….if you have not created healthy eating and exercise habits. You either WILL NOT reach your weight loss goal or you WILL start gaining the weight back.
I urge you during the “honeymoon stage” (the time when weight is coming off the easiest 1 year to 18 months) work your tool for all it is worth. And yes it does come off easier for some than others. And the bigger you are the faster it initially comes off.
This is not a diet!!!! A diet is something you go on and go off and go back to your old habits and usually put the weight back on plus additional pounds. THIS IS A LIFESTYLE CHANGE!!!!! A change that you will be doing for the rest of your life. I have said so many times….it is not a destination to a particular weight….this is a journey “we” will be on the rest of our lives…..
If you are at a plateau evaluate what you are doing….
Are you getting a minimum of 64 oz in everyday, are you eating your protein first (minimum of 60 grams per day), are you drinking with your meal? (You shouldn’t be).
Don’t graze all day….think about it are you really stomach hungry or are you head hungry? There is a difference and you need to learn your body.
Start every meal with your protein first, then veggies, then fruit and if, only if there is room left eat a starch. I chose not to eat bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, and sugar. It helps me maintain my weight. These items were my down fall before and I know it so I just don’t go there. I do not feel deprived because I have broken the cravings and there are so many other things to eat. Also are you going to support group? It is very important.
As always, do what your surgeon tells you to do….they do know best….and they know your history and know what you need from your labs.
Remember your body is like a machine…if you eat the same thing every day and do the same exercise it will get used to it and it will plateau. So you have to shake it up a little….change things around…and you will start losing again.
Have you incorporated strength training? If you are not doing this as part of your program or lifestyle, then it's time to start. Working your muscles will help to strengthen bone tissue, increase lean mass and ultimately boost your metabolic rate.
Change your exercise Routine...So you go walking a lot? Then try jogging, or swimming, or cycling..anything that will change the way your body is working. If you are doing low intensity cardio (ask your surgeon first) then try some high intensity exercise.
When I initially had surgery I could not walk on the street because of heal spurs and a bad knee. My surgeon told me if I walked in a pool for 30 minutes it would equal 1 hour on the street. It is a very good workout and you will sweat in the pool.
I want everyone to succeed and feel good about their accomplishments. For me it is not about what I look like….it is about all the things I can do in this body. I am 48 years old and I can physically do things I could not do when I was 25 years old. Life is so good!!!!!
Do the steps you need to be a healthier you!!!! And keep doing them…..your body will thank you for it!!!!!!
Take care,
Ginger
So, many people have weight loss surgery and think. This is the answer, this is the magic pill….I am sorry to say…..they are so wrong…..initially, yes, the weight comes off pretty easily……but as time goes on….if you have not created healthy eating and exercise habits. You either WILL NOT reach your weight loss goal or you WILL start gaining the weight back.
I urge you during the “honeymoon stage” (the time when weight is coming off the easiest 1 year to 18 months) work your tool for all it is worth. And yes it does come off easier for some than others. And the bigger you are the faster it initially comes off.
This is not a diet!!!! A diet is something you go on and go off and go back to your old habits and usually put the weight back on plus additional pounds. THIS IS A LIFESTYLE CHANGE!!!!! A change that you will be doing for the rest of your life. I have said so many times….it is not a destination to a particular weight….this is a journey “we” will be on the rest of our lives…..
If you are at a plateau evaluate what you are doing….
Are you getting a minimum of 64 oz in everyday, are you eating your protein first (minimum of 60 grams per day), are you drinking with your meal? (You shouldn’t be).
Don’t graze all day….think about it are you really stomach hungry or are you head hungry? There is a difference and you need to learn your body.
Start every meal with your protein first, then veggies, then fruit and if, only if there is room left eat a starch. I chose not to eat bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, and sugar. It helps me maintain my weight. These items were my down fall before and I know it so I just don’t go there. I do not feel deprived because I have broken the cravings and there are so many other things to eat. Also are you going to support group? It is very important.
As always, do what your surgeon tells you to do….they do know best….and they know your history and know what you need from your labs.
Remember your body is like a machine…if you eat the same thing every day and do the same exercise it will get used to it and it will plateau. So you have to shake it up a little….change things around…and you will start losing again.
Have you incorporated strength training? If you are not doing this as part of your program or lifestyle, then it's time to start. Working your muscles will help to strengthen bone tissue, increase lean mass and ultimately boost your metabolic rate.
Change your exercise Routine...So you go walking a lot? Then try jogging, or swimming, or cycling..anything that will change the way your body is working. If you are doing low intensity cardio (ask your surgeon first) then try some high intensity exercise.
When I initially had surgery I could not walk on the street because of heal spurs and a bad knee. My surgeon told me if I walked in a pool for 30 minutes it would equal 1 hour on the street. It is a very good workout and you will sweat in the pool.
I want everyone to succeed and feel good about their accomplishments. For me it is not about what I look like….it is about all the things I can do in this body. I am 48 years old and I can physically do things I could not do when I was 25 years old. Life is so good!!!!!
Do the steps you need to be a healthier you!!!! And keep doing them…..your body will thank you for it!!!!!!
Take care,
Ginger
Monday, October 19, 2009
Holiday Tips to Maintain Weight Loss and even Lose Weight
To make the Holiday Season a healthier one, experts say, it's important to do three things: Practice awareness, manage your stress and emotions, and plan in advance.
Imagine how you'll feel on New Year's Day when you begin the New Year knowing you got through the Holidays and you didn’t gain any weight or perhaps you lost weight! This is the beginning of what is the hardest time of the year for most….including me to keep the weight off.
So, keep your weight loss goals in mind daily. Empower yourself…. Be in control…..I personally stay on track by weighing every morning around the same time. This tells me where I am for the day and what I need to do. If I am up a couple of pounds I know to really watch my caloric intake, make sure I am getting my water in and definitely exercise. We can all do this…but it isn’t magic…
Create a plan ahead of time. Before the holidays sneak up on you, incorporate fitness and good nutrition into your daily routine and stick to it.
Schedule time to exercise. The best way to avoid weight gain from Halloween to New Year is to stay on track with your regular exercise routine. It's a busy time of year for everyone, but don't lose sight of the bigger picture. Where you want to be! Mark your exercise on your calendar and set-aside time to complete it. Consider your exercise appointments as important as any other appointment or event you have marked on your calendar. And if you have to cancel your exercise for some reason do what you do with other important appointments….put it back into your schedule somewhere else. If you have to do a shorter version of your regular routine do it, some exercise is better than none. Also you can use stairs instead of elevators and escalators will add to your overall workout. Park your car further from the entrance of a store. We also know there are many benefits to exercise besides the physical ones of burning calories; it can help with stress and elevate your mood and help you sleep better. Who couldn’t use that this time of year!
If you are going to a party bring a Healthy Dish - This is one way to ensure you'll have something healthy to eat, while sharing something nutritious with your family and friends. If you're tempted by desserts or feel the pressure to join others in eating them, bring a healthy dessert as well. This way you will not feel deprived.
Eat Before You Go - A common strategy for attacking a holiday meal or party is to skip breakfast and lunch, this way when the party gets started there is plenty of room to indulge in an abundance of junk food for the rest of the day. This way of thinking doesn't really work for someone who is trying to avoid eating foods that are harmful to the body. Instead, it would make more sense to start off the day with a hearty protein based breakfast. Also, to avoid having to eat more compromised foods than you'd like to, eat a small protein based meal before you leave for the party.
At the party use a smaller plate (tricks your mind into thinking you are eating more than you really are). Start with lean protein, veggies and fruit, and then go to the dessert table and partake in the healthy dessert you brought. (Avoid second and third servings by walking away from the food. I know it is hard sometimes but be conscious of what you eat and how much, When there's a lot of food available.
Learn to say "no," in a courteous manner, to activities and food that aren't in your best interest. Many people think food is love, and we know it isn’t.
People may grow to respect it, and may even emulate it.
Limit alcoholic beverages. (We don’t do well with alcohol anyway) Drinking at parties may be tempting, but it will be hard to maintain your weight through the holidays if you indulge in too many alcoholic beverages. Set a limit of one or two drinks and then switch to water to prevent dehydration and save on the calories). Spend the rest of the party walking around with a full glass of water with a lemon wedge. Keeping your hands occupied accomplishes two purposes: first, the hosts will not ask if you need a drink (you have one), and second, it’s harder to eat with one hand wrapped around a glass.
You might consider having the Party at Your House - This is the best way to ensure that you'll have something healthy to eat while celebrating the holidays with your friends and family. Hosting a party gives you a little more control over what kind of foods will be served. Suggest that your guests bring salads or some of the healthier family favorites. And you can provide recipes that you have altered to make healthier. . Reduce the fat in holiday recipes. There are plenty of low fat and low calorie substitutes that are amazingly tasty. Try using applesauce in place of oil in your favorite holiday breads; use egg substitutes in place of whole eggs; try plain nonfat yogurt in place of sour cream. Magazines are full of reduced calorie and reduced fat holiday recipes. Give them a try, and share your cooking creations with friends and family.
Take the Focus Off of Food - Make celebrating the holidays with your family and friends more about fun, and fellowship rather than grazing on food. Bring some games that get everyone involved; Plan in advance for everyone to bring an ornament or small gift to do an exchange game. Sharing stories, looking through old photos or activities such as making scrapbooks, wreaths or ornaments is always fun. Celebrate traditions that don't involve eating.
When running errands or shopping perhaps eat something before you go and pack some healthy snacks to have on-hand. Then after you work-up a big appetite, you won’t be tempted to grab something at the mall food court or the fast food restaurant on the way home.
In conclusion remember these tips…perhaps post them somewhere so it will remind you. You can stay on track maintain your weight and even lose weight…
Have a wonderful holiday!!
Ginger
1. Don’t Beat Yourself Up if you fall off the wagon just jump back on
2. Don’t Skip Your Workout
3. Don’t Eat Mindlessly
4. Buy Healthy Food
5. Don’t Shop Hungry
6. Don’t use Food as Entertainment
7. Don't Skip Meals
Imagine how you'll feel on New Year's Day when you begin the New Year knowing you got through the Holidays and you didn’t gain any weight or perhaps you lost weight! This is the beginning of what is the hardest time of the year for most….including me to keep the weight off.
So, keep your weight loss goals in mind daily. Empower yourself…. Be in control…..I personally stay on track by weighing every morning around the same time. This tells me where I am for the day and what I need to do. If I am up a couple of pounds I know to really watch my caloric intake, make sure I am getting my water in and definitely exercise. We can all do this…but it isn’t magic…
Create a plan ahead of time. Before the holidays sneak up on you, incorporate fitness and good nutrition into your daily routine and stick to it.
Schedule time to exercise. The best way to avoid weight gain from Halloween to New Year is to stay on track with your regular exercise routine. It's a busy time of year for everyone, but don't lose sight of the bigger picture. Where you want to be! Mark your exercise on your calendar and set-aside time to complete it. Consider your exercise appointments as important as any other appointment or event you have marked on your calendar. And if you have to cancel your exercise for some reason do what you do with other important appointments….put it back into your schedule somewhere else. If you have to do a shorter version of your regular routine do it, some exercise is better than none. Also you can use stairs instead of elevators and escalators will add to your overall workout. Park your car further from the entrance of a store. We also know there are many benefits to exercise besides the physical ones of burning calories; it can help with stress and elevate your mood and help you sleep better. Who couldn’t use that this time of year!
If you are going to a party bring a Healthy Dish - This is one way to ensure you'll have something healthy to eat, while sharing something nutritious with your family and friends. If you're tempted by desserts or feel the pressure to join others in eating them, bring a healthy dessert as well. This way you will not feel deprived.
Eat Before You Go - A common strategy for attacking a holiday meal or party is to skip breakfast and lunch, this way when the party gets started there is plenty of room to indulge in an abundance of junk food for the rest of the day. This way of thinking doesn't really work for someone who is trying to avoid eating foods that are harmful to the body. Instead, it would make more sense to start off the day with a hearty protein based breakfast. Also, to avoid having to eat more compromised foods than you'd like to, eat a small protein based meal before you leave for the party.
At the party use a smaller plate (tricks your mind into thinking you are eating more than you really are). Start with lean protein, veggies and fruit, and then go to the dessert table and partake in the healthy dessert you brought. (Avoid second and third servings by walking away from the food. I know it is hard sometimes but be conscious of what you eat and how much, When there's a lot of food available.
Learn to say "no," in a courteous manner, to activities and food that aren't in your best interest. Many people think food is love, and we know it isn’t.
People may grow to respect it, and may even emulate it.
Limit alcoholic beverages. (We don’t do well with alcohol anyway) Drinking at parties may be tempting, but it will be hard to maintain your weight through the holidays if you indulge in too many alcoholic beverages. Set a limit of one or two drinks and then switch to water to prevent dehydration and save on the calories). Spend the rest of the party walking around with a full glass of water with a lemon wedge. Keeping your hands occupied accomplishes two purposes: first, the hosts will not ask if you need a drink (you have one), and second, it’s harder to eat with one hand wrapped around a glass.
You might consider having the Party at Your House - This is the best way to ensure that you'll have something healthy to eat while celebrating the holidays with your friends and family. Hosting a party gives you a little more control over what kind of foods will be served. Suggest that your guests bring salads or some of the healthier family favorites. And you can provide recipes that you have altered to make healthier. . Reduce the fat in holiday recipes. There are plenty of low fat and low calorie substitutes that are amazingly tasty. Try using applesauce in place of oil in your favorite holiday breads; use egg substitutes in place of whole eggs; try plain nonfat yogurt in place of sour cream. Magazines are full of reduced calorie and reduced fat holiday recipes. Give them a try, and share your cooking creations with friends and family.
Take the Focus Off of Food - Make celebrating the holidays with your family and friends more about fun, and fellowship rather than grazing on food. Bring some games that get everyone involved; Plan in advance for everyone to bring an ornament or small gift to do an exchange game. Sharing stories, looking through old photos or activities such as making scrapbooks, wreaths or ornaments is always fun. Celebrate traditions that don't involve eating.
When running errands or shopping perhaps eat something before you go and pack some healthy snacks to have on-hand. Then after you work-up a big appetite, you won’t be tempted to grab something at the mall food court or the fast food restaurant on the way home.
In conclusion remember these tips…perhaps post them somewhere so it will remind you. You can stay on track maintain your weight and even lose weight…
Have a wonderful holiday!!
Ginger
1. Don’t Beat Yourself Up if you fall off the wagon just jump back on
2. Don’t Skip Your Workout
3. Don’t Eat Mindlessly
4. Buy Healthy Food
5. Don’t Shop Hungry
6. Don’t use Food as Entertainment
7. Don't Skip Meals
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Curried Chicken with Fresh & Dried Cranberries
I love new recipes and I really enjoy the Eating Well recipes!
Enjoy,
Ginger
Curried Chicken with Fresh & Dried Cranberries
EatingWell: October/November 2005
8 servings, 3/4 cup each | Active Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
• 3 teaspoons canola oil, divided
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
• 3 tablespoons mild or medium-hot curry powder, divided
• 2 teaspoons butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
• Generous 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom, or cloves
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes with mild green chiles
• 1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/3 cups sweetened dried cranberries
• 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen, thawed, coarsely chopped (see Note)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Preparation
1. Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a nonreactive Dutch oven (see Note) over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken pieces and sprinkle with a generous 1/2 teaspoon curry powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a large plate. Heat the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in the pot. Add the remaining chicken; sprinkle with another generous 1/2 teaspoon curry powder and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the plate.
2. Add butter, onion and mustard seeds to the pot; cook, stirring, until the seeds pop and the onion begins to brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot, sprinkle with the remaining curry powder and cardamom (or cloves); stir to coat the chicken with the spices. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, broth, dried and fresh cranberries, ginger and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces slightly and the chicken is cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes more. Serve garnished with cilantro.
Nutrition
Per serving : 246 Calories; 6 g Fat; 2 g Sat; 2 g Mono; 66 mg Cholesterol; 24 g Carbohydrates; 25 g Protein; 4 g Fiber; 224 mg Sodium; 267 mg Potassium
Tips & Notes
Make Ahead Tip: Cool, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Notes: To make quick work of chopping cranberries, place whole berries in a food processor and pulse a few times until the berries are coarsely chopped.
• A nonreactive pan—stainless steel, enamel-coated or glass—is necessary when cooking acidic foods, such as cranberries, to prevent the food from reacting with the pan. Reactive pans, such as aluminum and cast-iron, can impart an off color and/or off flavor in acidic foods.
Mediterranean Roasted Broccoli & Tomatoes
From EatingWell: September/October 2007
This dish of roasted broccoli and tomatoes is tossed with bright Mediterranean ingredients just before serving.
4 servings, about 1 cup each | Active Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
• 12 ounces broccoli crowns, trimmed and cut into bite-size florets (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup grape tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 10 pitted black olives, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons capers, rinsed (optional)
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Toss broccoli, tomatoes, oil, garlic and salt in a large bowl until evenly coated. Spread in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake until the broccoli begins to brown, 10 to 13 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, combine lemon zest and juice, olives, oregano and capers (if using) in a large bowl. Add the roasted vegetables; stir to combine. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Per serving : 76 Calories; 5 g Fat; 1 g Sat; 4 g Mono; 0 mg Cholesterol; 7 g Carbohydrates; 3 g Protein; 3 g Fiber; 264 mg Sodium; 328 mg Potassium
Enjoy,
Ginger
Curried Chicken with Fresh & Dried Cranberries
EatingWell: October/November 2005
8 servings, 3/4 cup each | Active Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
• 3 teaspoons canola oil, divided
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
• 3 tablespoons mild or medium-hot curry powder, divided
• 2 teaspoons butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
• Generous 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom, or cloves
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes with mild green chiles
• 1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/3 cups sweetened dried cranberries
• 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen, thawed, coarsely chopped (see Note)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Preparation
1. Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a nonreactive Dutch oven (see Note) over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken pieces and sprinkle with a generous 1/2 teaspoon curry powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a large plate. Heat the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in the pot. Add the remaining chicken; sprinkle with another generous 1/2 teaspoon curry powder and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the plate.
2. Add butter, onion and mustard seeds to the pot; cook, stirring, until the seeds pop and the onion begins to brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot, sprinkle with the remaining curry powder and cardamom (or cloves); stir to coat the chicken with the spices. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, broth, dried and fresh cranberries, ginger and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces slightly and the chicken is cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes more. Serve garnished with cilantro.
Nutrition
Per serving : 246 Calories; 6 g Fat; 2 g Sat; 2 g Mono; 66 mg Cholesterol; 24 g Carbohydrates; 25 g Protein; 4 g Fiber; 224 mg Sodium; 267 mg Potassium
Tips & Notes
Make Ahead Tip: Cool, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Notes: To make quick work of chopping cranberries, place whole berries in a food processor and pulse a few times until the berries are coarsely chopped.
• A nonreactive pan—stainless steel, enamel-coated or glass—is necessary when cooking acidic foods, such as cranberries, to prevent the food from reacting with the pan. Reactive pans, such as aluminum and cast-iron, can impart an off color and/or off flavor in acidic foods.
Mediterranean Roasted Broccoli & Tomatoes
From EatingWell: September/October 2007
This dish of roasted broccoli and tomatoes is tossed with bright Mediterranean ingredients just before serving.
4 servings, about 1 cup each | Active Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
• 12 ounces broccoli crowns, trimmed and cut into bite-size florets (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup grape tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 10 pitted black olives, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons capers, rinsed (optional)
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Toss broccoli, tomatoes, oil, garlic and salt in a large bowl until evenly coated. Spread in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake until the broccoli begins to brown, 10 to 13 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, combine lemon zest and juice, olives, oregano and capers (if using) in a large bowl. Add the roasted vegetables; stir to combine. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Per serving : 76 Calories; 5 g Fat; 1 g Sat; 4 g Mono; 0 mg Cholesterol; 7 g Carbohydrates; 3 g Protein; 3 g Fiber; 264 mg Sodium; 328 mg Potassium
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Head Hunger vs Stomach Hunger
I am 8 1/2 years out from RNY. For me one of the hardest things to learn was the difference in Head Hunger and Stomach Hunger. The surgeon does surgery on our stomach not our head; we have to do the work on that. And if you are like me I was (am) a compulsive eater, emotional eater, stress eater, grazer and also addicted to carbs/sugar. I am still all these but am able to manage them (for the first time in my life).
I remember when I had surgery a couple of weeks later I cried for Pizza, I wanted it so bad. Food (especially) sugar/carbs) have been my drug of choice since I was a little girl! Breaking the cravings and being disciplined didn't come over night. But because I do not eat bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, or sugar (ever) I have broken the cravings, I don't want them or think about them. It is kind of second nature, now. Sometimes we have to get counseling to help us with this. There is nothing wrong with that, I did it myself. Also, find a support group and attended. It is so important.
Whether it is true stomach hunger or head hunger you are feeling you need to learn how to handle it. Find something to do when you want food. Take a walk; call a friend, what ever it takes to make you stop thinking about food. Also, our stomach growls all the time, it is the remnant stomach working it doesn't mean we are hungry. I can eat and 5 minutes later it is growling so loud the neighbors can hear it! LOL
WLS is is NOT A DIET; it is a life style change. I hate to tell you this, but the further out you get the more you can eat and if you don't learn healthy eating and exercise habits, it will be much harder later. This is manageable and you can do it!!! You just need to learn the skills to do it!
No one ever said WLS was easy and if they did they didn't know what they were talking about! WLS is a tool to use to lose weight and keep it off.....learn to use your tool!!! As time goes by it does get easier to manage if create healthy habits from the start.
YOU CAN DO THIS!!!! BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!!!! AND NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP!!!!!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
I remember when I had surgery a couple of weeks later I cried for Pizza, I wanted it so bad. Food (especially) sugar/carbs) have been my drug of choice since I was a little girl! Breaking the cravings and being disciplined didn't come over night. But because I do not eat bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, or sugar (ever) I have broken the cravings, I don't want them or think about them. It is kind of second nature, now. Sometimes we have to get counseling to help us with this. There is nothing wrong with that, I did it myself. Also, find a support group and attended. It is so important.
Whether it is true stomach hunger or head hunger you are feeling you need to learn how to handle it. Find something to do when you want food. Take a walk; call a friend, what ever it takes to make you stop thinking about food. Also, our stomach growls all the time, it is the remnant stomach working it doesn't mean we are hungry. I can eat and 5 minutes later it is growling so loud the neighbors can hear it! LOL
WLS is is NOT A DIET; it is a life style change. I hate to tell you this, but the further out you get the more you can eat and if you don't learn healthy eating and exercise habits, it will be much harder later. This is manageable and you can do it!!! You just need to learn the skills to do it!
No one ever said WLS was easy and if they did they didn't know what they were talking about! WLS is a tool to use to lose weight and keep it off.....learn to use your tool!!! As time goes by it does get easier to manage if create healthy habits from the start.
YOU CAN DO THIS!!!! BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!!!! AND NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP!!!!!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
Monday, October 5, 2009
Can I Really Lose Weight and Keep It off?
Many people think that Weight Loss Surgery is like a "Magic Pill"! You have the surgery and never have to worry about it again. This is a "False" statement. It is the "tool" I needed to give me a "Full" feeling (full switch). I now know when I am full. I actually feel "normal" now. This is the first time in my life I have been able lose the weight and maintain the weight loss and I have lost hundreds of pounds in the past and gained it back plus more.
The way I do it is eating healthy and exercising regularly. Sounds so simple doesn't it! Well, when you make it a "lifestyle change" it does come easier. I have to stay on top of it every day, but it is so worth it!! For me WLS was the best thing I ever did in my entire life!!!
I read this article and thought it was very good and wanted to share it with you. Now, all of it doesn't exactly pertain to a WLS patient but in a lot of ways it does.
Remember to always follow your surgeon's guidelines. And never forget how important it is for us to get our protein in and take our vitamins.
Take care,
Ginger
Can I Really Lose Weight and Keep It Off?
By Martica Heaner, Ph.D., M.A., M.Ed., for MSN Health & Fitness
MSN Health & Fitness Exclusive
Q. I find it so hard to lose weight, and when I do, I seem to gain it right back. Is it true that the body has a set point when it comes to weight? Am I fighting a losing battle?
A. It seems that there is a fairly stable weight range where the body tends to hover. But “set point” is not the preferred term in scientific circles because it implies that there is a gauge or mechanism somewhere in the brain or body that is responsible for maintaining weight at a specific point on the scale. While research has identified a number of mechanisms that kick in to regain lost fat, there is no specific area that has been identified that determines a certain set point. So the concept is usually discussed in terms of the body’s ability to regulate its weight or, specifically, fat mass, around a fixed level, give or take a few pounds.
While it seems that this body-weight or body-fat regulation keeps fat mass stable in both directions, there are stronger mechanisms for protecting against weight or fat loss than against weight gain. So it’s easier to regain weight you lose from dieting and harder to take pounds off. In theory, the body’s ability to regulate a stable supply of fat is a good thing, since fat is the body’s main energy source. A resistance to permanent weight or fat loss is a way to ward off starvation by keeping energy ready in times of famine.
The set point isn’t necessarily permanent, however. That’s because if you do get heavier, new fat cells can develop. Once fat cells exist, you can’t get rid of them and they have a biological need to be filled. So, a higher weight or level of fat mass becomes the new “normal.“
Body weight and body fat mass are used a bit interchangeably here. It’s true that body “weight” represents more than just body fat mass and fluctuations on the scale can represent differences in the different components that constitute body weight—such as fluids, fat and muscle. But there is a relationship between increased fat mass and increased body weight. It appears that it’s the amount of fat mass that is preserved rather than the scale weight changes, although scale weight is likely to be a reflection in fat weight changes—especially when the pounds are higher in number. For example, if someone gains 15 or 30 pounds, chances are that the increases are mostly fat tissue, as opposed to water or muscle weight.
Obesity researchers aren’t sure exactly when a modified set point, or fat mass range, is triggered, and there appear to be individual variations—some people might gain more fat and do so more quickly. But the more you gain and the longer you are at the higher weight or, more precisely, increased fat mass, the more likely you are to create a higher regulated bodyweight or a higher set point. That’s why public health efforts in combating obesity address not only weight loss, but the prevention of weight gain. For many people who find themselves on a weight gain trajectory, often the first step is do what it takes to stop gaining, and then to think about losing.
It would be convenient for those trying to lose, if a new lower set point could also be established. That appears to be less likely, probably because of the body’s survival mode. Preserving fat makes more sense than wasting it. But data from the National Weight Control Registry suggests that the longer one maintains weight loss, the easier it becomes. Whether this is because the healthier lifestyles become a habit after a while or the body puts up less of a fight to regain the weight over time, is unclear.
OK, so that’s the bad news. But can you overcome your set point? Yes!
Many people have successfully lost weight and kept it off for years. It’s true that many people lose weight and gain it back, but it is possible to become a successful loser. It requires dedication and discipline, but it can be done.
Dieting alone is not the only way to lose weight or to keep it off since you can eat less and decrease fat from the cells, but a variety of biological mechanisms kick in to encourage the fat regain. What’s interesting is that energy-preserving mechanisms kick in whether you’re a lean person trying to lose 5 pounds or you’re overweight and trying to drop 50. Successful “losers” adopt long term lifestyle strategies to keep weight down including:
Work out every day.
Exercise guidelines suggest that those trying to manage their weight need to fit in at least 60 to 90 minutes of moderate and/or vigorous exercise on most days of the week. Although even 30 minutes of exercise is helpful, very few people who have lost weight are able to maintain it without doing significant amounts of daily exercise. Although any kind of cardio workout counts, walking is the most common.
Focus on fiber.
Eat a high-fiber diet filled with lots of fruits and vegetables. Overweight and formerly-obese people may have defective satiety mechanisms—it takes more volume to feel full and satisfied from a meal. Eating lots of plant foods allows one to fill up with fewer calories. Watch the dietary fat. Consume good fats found in foods such as avocados, nuts and oils, but keep your diet low fat. People who have higher-fat diets tend to consume more calories.
Keep a food and exercise diary.
Write down your daily meals and bouts of activity. This helps keep you on track by identifying when you’ve diverged from your plan. If you get super busy, it’s easy to go several days without exercising or to skip meals and fall into unfavorable eating patterns. Keeping a log keeps you focused.
Weigh on a regular basis.
There is some debate about this practice because some people believe that body-weight numbers on a scale are less important than body composition or that regular weighing leads to obsessive fixations on body weight that can lead to disordered eating or exercise behaviors. There is some truth to both of these perspectives; however, research suggests that those who do weigh are better able to keep their weight in check. Just like the food log, it’s a gauge by which a person can detect wild fluctuations. Since body weight can vary daily by as much as five pounds simply from fluids shifts, one or two days of dramatically different weights aren’t as important as the trends in weight over time. So if you do weigh, keep track and compare over days and weeks. If two weeks from now you are consistently three to five pounds heavier for another few weeks, and your food log shows an increase in fast-food eating and a decrease in working out, you can assume that you have gained more fat and adjust your behaviors accordingly.
The way I do it is eating healthy and exercising regularly. Sounds so simple doesn't it! Well, when you make it a "lifestyle change" it does come easier. I have to stay on top of it every day, but it is so worth it!! For me WLS was the best thing I ever did in my entire life!!!
I read this article and thought it was very good and wanted to share it with you. Now, all of it doesn't exactly pertain to a WLS patient but in a lot of ways it does.
Remember to always follow your surgeon's guidelines. And never forget how important it is for us to get our protein in and take our vitamins.
Take care,
Ginger
Can I Really Lose Weight and Keep It Off?
By Martica Heaner, Ph.D., M.A., M.Ed., for MSN Health & Fitness
MSN Health & Fitness Exclusive
Q. I find it so hard to lose weight, and when I do, I seem to gain it right back. Is it true that the body has a set point when it comes to weight? Am I fighting a losing battle?
A. It seems that there is a fairly stable weight range where the body tends to hover. But “set point” is not the preferred term in scientific circles because it implies that there is a gauge or mechanism somewhere in the brain or body that is responsible for maintaining weight at a specific point on the scale. While research has identified a number of mechanisms that kick in to regain lost fat, there is no specific area that has been identified that determines a certain set point. So the concept is usually discussed in terms of the body’s ability to regulate its weight or, specifically, fat mass, around a fixed level, give or take a few pounds.
While it seems that this body-weight or body-fat regulation keeps fat mass stable in both directions, there are stronger mechanisms for protecting against weight or fat loss than against weight gain. So it’s easier to regain weight you lose from dieting and harder to take pounds off. In theory, the body’s ability to regulate a stable supply of fat is a good thing, since fat is the body’s main energy source. A resistance to permanent weight or fat loss is a way to ward off starvation by keeping energy ready in times of famine.
The set point isn’t necessarily permanent, however. That’s because if you do get heavier, new fat cells can develop. Once fat cells exist, you can’t get rid of them and they have a biological need to be filled. So, a higher weight or level of fat mass becomes the new “normal.“
Body weight and body fat mass are used a bit interchangeably here. It’s true that body “weight” represents more than just body fat mass and fluctuations on the scale can represent differences in the different components that constitute body weight—such as fluids, fat and muscle. But there is a relationship between increased fat mass and increased body weight. It appears that it’s the amount of fat mass that is preserved rather than the scale weight changes, although scale weight is likely to be a reflection in fat weight changes—especially when the pounds are higher in number. For example, if someone gains 15 or 30 pounds, chances are that the increases are mostly fat tissue, as opposed to water or muscle weight.
Obesity researchers aren’t sure exactly when a modified set point, or fat mass range, is triggered, and there appear to be individual variations—some people might gain more fat and do so more quickly. But the more you gain and the longer you are at the higher weight or, more precisely, increased fat mass, the more likely you are to create a higher regulated bodyweight or a higher set point. That’s why public health efforts in combating obesity address not only weight loss, but the prevention of weight gain. For many people who find themselves on a weight gain trajectory, often the first step is do what it takes to stop gaining, and then to think about losing.
It would be convenient for those trying to lose, if a new lower set point could also be established. That appears to be less likely, probably because of the body’s survival mode. Preserving fat makes more sense than wasting it. But data from the National Weight Control Registry suggests that the longer one maintains weight loss, the easier it becomes. Whether this is because the healthier lifestyles become a habit after a while or the body puts up less of a fight to regain the weight over time, is unclear.
OK, so that’s the bad news. But can you overcome your set point? Yes!
Many people have successfully lost weight and kept it off for years. It’s true that many people lose weight and gain it back, but it is possible to become a successful loser. It requires dedication and discipline, but it can be done.
Dieting alone is not the only way to lose weight or to keep it off since you can eat less and decrease fat from the cells, but a variety of biological mechanisms kick in to encourage the fat regain. What’s interesting is that energy-preserving mechanisms kick in whether you’re a lean person trying to lose 5 pounds or you’re overweight and trying to drop 50. Successful “losers” adopt long term lifestyle strategies to keep weight down including:
Work out every day.
Exercise guidelines suggest that those trying to manage their weight need to fit in at least 60 to 90 minutes of moderate and/or vigorous exercise on most days of the week. Although even 30 minutes of exercise is helpful, very few people who have lost weight are able to maintain it without doing significant amounts of daily exercise. Although any kind of cardio workout counts, walking is the most common.
Focus on fiber.
Eat a high-fiber diet filled with lots of fruits and vegetables. Overweight and formerly-obese people may have defective satiety mechanisms—it takes more volume to feel full and satisfied from a meal. Eating lots of plant foods allows one to fill up with fewer calories. Watch the dietary fat. Consume good fats found in foods such as avocados, nuts and oils, but keep your diet low fat. People who have higher-fat diets tend to consume more calories.
Keep a food and exercise diary.
Write down your daily meals and bouts of activity. This helps keep you on track by identifying when you’ve diverged from your plan. If you get super busy, it’s easy to go several days without exercising or to skip meals and fall into unfavorable eating patterns. Keeping a log keeps you focused.
Weigh on a regular basis.
There is some debate about this practice because some people believe that body-weight numbers on a scale are less important than body composition or that regular weighing leads to obsessive fixations on body weight that can lead to disordered eating or exercise behaviors. There is some truth to both of these perspectives; however, research suggests that those who do weigh are better able to keep their weight in check. Just like the food log, it’s a gauge by which a person can detect wild fluctuations. Since body weight can vary daily by as much as five pounds simply from fluids shifts, one or two days of dramatically different weights aren’t as important as the trends in weight over time. So if you do weigh, keep track and compare over days and weeks. If two weeks from now you are consistently three to five pounds heavier for another few weeks, and your food log shows an increase in fast-food eating and a decrease in working out, you can assume that you have gained more fat and adjust your behaviors accordingly.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Great Recipes for the Cooler Weather
Tomato Pie
Ingredients
• 4 – 5 tomatoes, peeled and sliced
• Pesto (you can buy or make it see recipe below)
• 1 (9-inch) pre-baked deep dish pie shell (I don’t use a pie shell)
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• ½ cup parmesan cheese
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• Salt and pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the tomatoes in a colander in the sink in 1 layer. Sprinkle with salt and allow to drain for 10 minutes.
Layer the tomato slices, then pesto in pie shell, season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese and then place provolone cheese on top, and then start another layer with tomatoes. (Kind of layer like lasagna) ending with cheese on top.
Bake for 30 minutes or until lightly brown.
To serve; Let cool a little, cut into slices and serve warm.
*Pesto
Basil leaves
6 cloves garlic
¼ cup olive oil
I put basil leaves in my food processor (it takes a lot) and put in about 6 cloves of garlic (I like a lot of garlic you can use less if you like) and turn it on and drizzle in about ¼ cup of olive oil. Makes a great pesto that you can even freeze and take out a spoon at a time when you need it.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Mexican Soup
3 cans pinto beans
2 cans rotel
4 – 6 chicken breast (boiled- save broth)
½ - 1 lb pasta
2 Cups shredded cheese (Cheddar)
6 cloves fresh garlic (diced)
Boil chicken in about 8 – 10 cups water. Take chicken out of broth when fully cooked and dice. Pour beans, rotel and garlic into broth and bring to a boil. Add diced chicken to broth with other ingredients (except pasta)
Cook pasta in separate pot and drain. (This gives you an option if some people like me don’t eat pasta)
In a bowl put a scoop of pasta and add soup. Top with shredded cheese.
THIS IS A HEART SMART MEAL IF YOU LEAVE OUT THE CHEESE.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Taco Soup
4 chicken breast (boil in 8 – 10 cups of water and save broth)
2 packages of taco seasoning
2 cans pinto beans
1 can black beans
1 can rotel
1 can diced tomatoes
olive oil
2 large scallions (diced)
1 large sweet onion
4 cloves garlic (finely diced)
Cheese (your choice)
Fresh spinach (couple of handfuls)
Boil chicken until done. Take out of broth and dice.
In broth add taco seasoning and wish. Then add all canned ingredients (do not drain beans).
In a separate sauce pan sauté garlic, onions, whites of the scallions in olive oil. When finished add to the broth. Bring to a boil. Add diced chicken and the green part of the scallions. Add spinach stir until spinach is wilted.
Put into a bowl and top with cheese.
Ingredients
• 4 – 5 tomatoes, peeled and sliced
• Pesto (you can buy or make it see recipe below)
• 1 (9-inch) pre-baked deep dish pie shell (I don’t use a pie shell)
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• ½ cup parmesan cheese
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• Salt and pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the tomatoes in a colander in the sink in 1 layer. Sprinkle with salt and allow to drain for 10 minutes.
Layer the tomato slices, then pesto in pie shell, season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese and then place provolone cheese on top, and then start another layer with tomatoes. (Kind of layer like lasagna) ending with cheese on top.
Bake for 30 minutes or until lightly brown.
To serve; Let cool a little, cut into slices and serve warm.
*Pesto
Basil leaves
6 cloves garlic
¼ cup olive oil
I put basil leaves in my food processor (it takes a lot) and put in about 6 cloves of garlic (I like a lot of garlic you can use less if you like) and turn it on and drizzle in about ¼ cup of olive oil. Makes a great pesto that you can even freeze and take out a spoon at a time when you need it.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Mexican Soup
3 cans pinto beans
2 cans rotel
4 – 6 chicken breast (boiled- save broth)
½ - 1 lb pasta
2 Cups shredded cheese (Cheddar)
6 cloves fresh garlic (diced)
Boil chicken in about 8 – 10 cups water. Take chicken out of broth when fully cooked and dice. Pour beans, rotel and garlic into broth and bring to a boil. Add diced chicken to broth with other ingredients (except pasta)
Cook pasta in separate pot and drain. (This gives you an option if some people like me don’t eat pasta)
In a bowl put a scoop of pasta and add soup. Top with shredded cheese.
THIS IS A HEART SMART MEAL IF YOU LEAVE OUT THE CHEESE.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Taco Soup
4 chicken breast (boil in 8 – 10 cups of water and save broth)
2 packages of taco seasoning
2 cans pinto beans
1 can black beans
1 can rotel
1 can diced tomatoes
olive oil
2 large scallions (diced)
1 large sweet onion
4 cloves garlic (finely diced)
Cheese (your choice)
Fresh spinach (couple of handfuls)
Boil chicken until done. Take out of broth and dice.
In broth add taco seasoning and wish. Then add all canned ingredients (do not drain beans).
In a separate sauce pan sauté garlic, onions, whites of the scallions in olive oil. When finished add to the broth. Bring to a boil. Add diced chicken and the green part of the scallions. Add spinach stir until spinach is wilted.
Put into a bowl and top with cheese.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
10 Secrets of the Effortlessly Thin
I read this article, loved it and agreed with almost everything. Because I have a food addiction and it is to sweets/carbs I would not allow myself to indulge in a treat such as chocolate however, I do choose diet Dr. Pepper as my treat. And I do enjoy it very much. If we create a healthy way of thinking about food, eat healthy and exercise we can lose the weight and actually keep it off for a lifetime. Wow, isn't that a wonderful thing!!!! I am so looking forward to the next 50 years!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
The majority of thin people—whether they have been lean all their life or managed to lose weight and keep it off—share several healthy strategies that help them stay thin and healthy with seemingly little effort. Here are 10 secrets you need to know in order to join the ranks of the thin.
They don't diet
Or at least not in the traditional, all-or-nothing, deprivation sense of the word. "You need to get rid of that diet mentality and realize that what you are doing is making a permanent lifestyle change," says Anne Fletcher, M.S., R.D., author of the Thin for Life book series. She adds, "You do have to cut back on calories if you want to stay thin, but it's about reassessing what you eat and being more sensible in your choices, not about a quick-fix, crazy diet." Research has also shown that thin people tend to have a better quality diet than those who are overweight. They eat more fruits and vegetables and more fiber, and drink more water—all healthy things that provide more food volume for the number of calories.
By Sally Wadyka for MSN Health & Fitness
They keep track of their weight
Thin people know how much they weigh, and they monitor that number by stepping on the scale frequently. It's not about a having an unhealthy fixation on that number on the scale, but it's a way to catch a 5-pound gain before it suddenly turns into a 20-pound gain. "Aim to keep your weight within a five-pound range, and if you see it go above that buffer zone, make sure you have an immediate plan of action for how to address it," suggests Fletcher.
They exercise regularly
"In my research, nine out of 10 people who've lost weight and maintained it exercise regularly and make it a critical part of their lives," says Fletcher. Even if you've never been a fitness fanatic, it's not too late to get moving. Even taking a few 15-minute walks throughout the day will be a move in the right direction. Once you start to enjoy the mood-boosting and calorie-burning advantages of exercise, start looking for ways to keep your workouts interesting. Join a local gym and try a variety of classes and cardio machines, find friends to walk with, or experiment with at-home exercise DVDs.
They don't solve problems with food
Almost everyone is guilty of occasionally drowning their sorrows in a pint of Ben & Jerry's or taking out frustration on a batch of brownies, but thin people definitely don't make it a habit. "They tend not to eat purely for emotional reasons," says Fletcher. When you are upset (or bored, lonely, frustrated or angry), she suggests asking yourself: Is food really going to solve the problem, or will it just end up making you feel worse after you finish eating? Chances are, the food won't fix what's bothering you, so it's important to come up with a list of other small pleasures you can turn to instead of food. Some ideas include going for a walk, watching a movie, calling a friend, playing with your kids or taking a bubble bath.
They stop eating when they're full
Most thin people are not members of the clean-plate club. Instead of mindlessly eating however much they are served, they pay attention to internal hunger cues and satiety. "Thin people are tuned into noticing when they are satisfied, and they stop eating even if there is food left," says Jill Fleming, M.S., R.D., author of Thin People Don't Clean Their Plates (Inspiration Presentations Press, 2005). "They often report that they don't like that feeling of being uncomfortably full, so they've learned how to stop before they reach it."
They don't surround themselves with temptation
Rather than stocking the cupboards with junk food, thin people's kitchens tend to be filled with healthy foods. That doesn't mean you can never have any indulgences in the house, just that you shouldn't have so many that you're likely to overeat them. For example, if you love to bake, give most of your sweets away to friends, or have your kids bring them to school or soccer practice, leaving just a few behind to enjoy yourself.
They allow themselves treats
It's the opposite of the deprivation mentality that many overweight (but dieting) people espouse: Thin people let themselves eat what they crave, sometimes even indulging in a treat every day. "The difference is that they do it consciously, choosing exactly what they really want to eat and then eating slowly and enjoying it," says Fleming. So if it's chocolate you want, don't try to eat around the craving with an array of foods that don't really satisfy you. Instead, allow yourself to have a small but really delicious chocolate bar and put the craving to rest.
They eat breakfast
According to the National Weight Control Registry, which tracks the habits and strategies of more than 5,000 people who have maintained a significant weight loss, nearly 80 percent of these successful losers eat breakfast every single day. And most of their naturally lean counterparts do the same, and make sure that they eat within about an hour of waking up. "Breakfast is literally breaking the fast of the night," says Fleming. "Until you send food into your system, your metabolism doesn't really start to kick in."
They move, stand and fidget more
"Thin people are rarely sitting," says Fleming. Beyond their regular fitness routines, they simply move around more—and consequently burn more calories—throughout the day. And a study at the Mayo Clinic confirmed this: Researchers found that on average, a group of lean subjects sat for two hours a day less than the obese subjects, potentially burning up to 350 additional calories.
They don't skip meals
There are two problems with skipping meals—and thin people are careful not to fall prey to them. Going more than six hours without food will slow down your metabolism, plus you'll likely get so desperately hungry that you'll grab anything (as opposed to something healthy) and eat too much of it. "Thin people keep their gas tanks [i.e., their stomachs] between one-quarter and three-quarters full all the time," says Fleming. The best way to do that is to eat frequent mini-meals every three to four hours.
Hugs,
Ginger
The majority of thin people—whether they have been lean all their life or managed to lose weight and keep it off—share several healthy strategies that help them stay thin and healthy with seemingly little effort. Here are 10 secrets you need to know in order to join the ranks of the thin.
They don't diet
Or at least not in the traditional, all-or-nothing, deprivation sense of the word. "You need to get rid of that diet mentality and realize that what you are doing is making a permanent lifestyle change," says Anne Fletcher, M.S., R.D., author of the Thin for Life book series. She adds, "You do have to cut back on calories if you want to stay thin, but it's about reassessing what you eat and being more sensible in your choices, not about a quick-fix, crazy diet." Research has also shown that thin people tend to have a better quality diet than those who are overweight. They eat more fruits and vegetables and more fiber, and drink more water—all healthy things that provide more food volume for the number of calories.
By Sally Wadyka for MSN Health & Fitness
They keep track of their weight
Thin people know how much they weigh, and they monitor that number by stepping on the scale frequently. It's not about a having an unhealthy fixation on that number on the scale, but it's a way to catch a 5-pound gain before it suddenly turns into a 20-pound gain. "Aim to keep your weight within a five-pound range, and if you see it go above that buffer zone, make sure you have an immediate plan of action for how to address it," suggests Fletcher.
They exercise regularly
"In my research, nine out of 10 people who've lost weight and maintained it exercise regularly and make it a critical part of their lives," says Fletcher. Even if you've never been a fitness fanatic, it's not too late to get moving. Even taking a few 15-minute walks throughout the day will be a move in the right direction. Once you start to enjoy the mood-boosting and calorie-burning advantages of exercise, start looking for ways to keep your workouts interesting. Join a local gym and try a variety of classes and cardio machines, find friends to walk with, or experiment with at-home exercise DVDs.
They don't solve problems with food
Almost everyone is guilty of occasionally drowning their sorrows in a pint of Ben & Jerry's or taking out frustration on a batch of brownies, but thin people definitely don't make it a habit. "They tend not to eat purely for emotional reasons," says Fletcher. When you are upset (or bored, lonely, frustrated or angry), she suggests asking yourself: Is food really going to solve the problem, or will it just end up making you feel worse after you finish eating? Chances are, the food won't fix what's bothering you, so it's important to come up with a list of other small pleasures you can turn to instead of food. Some ideas include going for a walk, watching a movie, calling a friend, playing with your kids or taking a bubble bath.
They stop eating when they're full
Most thin people are not members of the clean-plate club. Instead of mindlessly eating however much they are served, they pay attention to internal hunger cues and satiety. "Thin people are tuned into noticing when they are satisfied, and they stop eating even if there is food left," says Jill Fleming, M.S., R.D., author of Thin People Don't Clean Their Plates (Inspiration Presentations Press, 2005). "They often report that they don't like that feeling of being uncomfortably full, so they've learned how to stop before they reach it."
They don't surround themselves with temptation
Rather than stocking the cupboards with junk food, thin people's kitchens tend to be filled with healthy foods. That doesn't mean you can never have any indulgences in the house, just that you shouldn't have so many that you're likely to overeat them. For example, if you love to bake, give most of your sweets away to friends, or have your kids bring them to school or soccer practice, leaving just a few behind to enjoy yourself.
They allow themselves treats
It's the opposite of the deprivation mentality that many overweight (but dieting) people espouse: Thin people let themselves eat what they crave, sometimes even indulging in a treat every day. "The difference is that they do it consciously, choosing exactly what they really want to eat and then eating slowly and enjoying it," says Fleming. So if it's chocolate you want, don't try to eat around the craving with an array of foods that don't really satisfy you. Instead, allow yourself to have a small but really delicious chocolate bar and put the craving to rest.
They eat breakfast
According to the National Weight Control Registry, which tracks the habits and strategies of more than 5,000 people who have maintained a significant weight loss, nearly 80 percent of these successful losers eat breakfast every single day. And most of their naturally lean counterparts do the same, and make sure that they eat within about an hour of waking up. "Breakfast is literally breaking the fast of the night," says Fleming. "Until you send food into your system, your metabolism doesn't really start to kick in."
They move, stand and fidget more
"Thin people are rarely sitting," says Fleming. Beyond their regular fitness routines, they simply move around more—and consequently burn more calories—throughout the day. And a study at the Mayo Clinic confirmed this: Researchers found that on average, a group of lean subjects sat for two hours a day less than the obese subjects, potentially burning up to 350 additional calories.
They don't skip meals
There are two problems with skipping meals—and thin people are careful not to fall prey to them. Going more than six hours without food will slow down your metabolism, plus you'll likely get so desperately hungry that you'll grab anything (as opposed to something healthy) and eat too much of it. "Thin people keep their gas tanks [i.e., their stomachs] between one-quarter and three-quarters full all the time," says Fleming. The best way to do that is to eat frequent mini-meals every three to four hours.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Climb the Mountain
Sometimes getting where you want to be and staying there is like Climbing a Mountain. You try and try and just can't seem to do it. Don't stop trying...it may take a while but you can climb that mountain!!! Just believe, plan, and never stop!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
Climb The Mountain
I tried to climb the mountain today. As I inched my way up the path, I felt out of breath and had to turn back.
I tried to climb the mountain today. But, It was so hot outside, I thought I had better stay in my nice air-conditioned house and rest up for tomorrow's attempt.
I tried to climb the mountain today. On my journey, darkness started to fall and I was full of fear, so I had to return to a safe place.
I was ready to climb the mountain today. But I had so may other things to do, so instead of climbing the mountain I took care of the much more important tasks; I washed my car, mowed the grass and watched the big game. Today the mountain will have to wait.
I was going to climb the mountain today. But as I stared at the mountain in all it's majestic beauty, I knew I had no chance of making it to the top, so I figured why even begin trying.
I had forgotten about climbing the mountain today, until an old friend came by and asked what I was up to lately. I told him about all my plans to climb that mountain someday. I went on and on about how I was going to accomplish the task.
He stopped me and said, "I just got back from climbing that mountain. for the longest time I told myself I was going to try to climb it but never made any progress."
"I almost let the dream of making it to the top die. I came up with every excuse of why I could not make it up the mountain, but never once did I give myself a reason why I could. One day as I stared at the mountain and pondered, I realized that if I didn't make an attempt at this dream all my dreams would eventually die."
" The next morning, I started my climb. It was not easy, and at times I wanted to quit. But no matter what I faced, I placed one foot in front of the other, keeping a steady pace. When the wind tried to blow me over the edge, I kept walking. When the voices inside my head screamed, stop! I focused on my goal, never letting it out of sight. I kept moving forward. I could not quit because I knew I had come too far to stop now. Time and time again, I reassured myself that I was going to finish this journey. I struggled mightily to make it to the top, but I CLIMBED THE MOUNTAIN."
"I have to be going," my friend said. "Tomorrow is a new day to accomplish more dreams. By the way what are you going to do tomorrow?"
I looked at him, with intensity and confidence in my eyes, and said, "I HAVE A MOUNTAIN TO CLIMB."Author unknown
Hugs,
Ginger
Climb The Mountain
I tried to climb the mountain today. As I inched my way up the path, I felt out of breath and had to turn back.
I tried to climb the mountain today. But, It was so hot outside, I thought I had better stay in my nice air-conditioned house and rest up for tomorrow's attempt.
I tried to climb the mountain today. On my journey, darkness started to fall and I was full of fear, so I had to return to a safe place.
I was ready to climb the mountain today. But I had so may other things to do, so instead of climbing the mountain I took care of the much more important tasks; I washed my car, mowed the grass and watched the big game. Today the mountain will have to wait.
I was going to climb the mountain today. But as I stared at the mountain in all it's majestic beauty, I knew I had no chance of making it to the top, so I figured why even begin trying.
I had forgotten about climbing the mountain today, until an old friend came by and asked what I was up to lately. I told him about all my plans to climb that mountain someday. I went on and on about how I was going to accomplish the task.
He stopped me and said, "I just got back from climbing that mountain. for the longest time I told myself I was going to try to climb it but never made any progress."
"I almost let the dream of making it to the top die. I came up with every excuse of why I could not make it up the mountain, but never once did I give myself a reason why I could. One day as I stared at the mountain and pondered, I realized that if I didn't make an attempt at this dream all my dreams would eventually die."
" The next morning, I started my climb. It was not easy, and at times I wanted to quit. But no matter what I faced, I placed one foot in front of the other, keeping a steady pace. When the wind tried to blow me over the edge, I kept walking. When the voices inside my head screamed, stop! I focused on my goal, never letting it out of sight. I kept moving forward. I could not quit because I knew I had come too far to stop now. Time and time again, I reassured myself that I was going to finish this journey. I struggled mightily to make it to the top, but I CLIMBED THE MOUNTAIN."
"I have to be going," my friend said. "Tomorrow is a new day to accomplish more dreams. By the way what are you going to do tomorrow?"
I looked at him, with intensity and confidence in my eyes, and said, "I HAVE A MOUNTAIN TO CLIMB."Author unknown
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Like Susan Boyle; It's Never Too Lake To Fulfill Your Dreams!!!!
I was reading an article about; Career Lessons from Celebritie
Here's one about Susan Boyle AND I THINK IT IS AWESOME!!!!! And I do agree "It's never too late to fulfill your dreams!!!!!!
Ginger
Lesson: It’s never too late to fulfill your dreams.
Susan Boyle had a difficult start to life. She was born oxygen deprived, was later diagnosed with learning disabilities, and suffered incessant name calling as a child. She lived in her family’s Council Estate (the UK’s version of social housing) for the bulk of her life and was chronically unemployed. She almost didn’t audition for Britain’s Got Talent, fearing she was “too old and that it was a young person’s game." It’s a good thing she did. Her audition stunned the judges and audiences alike. Although she did not win the competition (she came in second), Ms. Boyle has seen a rapid rise to global fame and is now recording her first album. Sometimes, just when you think you’ve missed the boat, you get a second chance to turn your life — and career — around. Don’t ever let your age or past experiences stop you from trying.
http://allhealthcare.monster.com/benefits/articles/3798-20-career-lessons-from-celebrities-?page=2&utm_content=ah_r1_20090922_cele
Here's one about Susan Boyle AND I THINK IT IS AWESOME!!!!! And I do agree "It's never too late to fulfill your dreams!!!!!!
Ginger
Lesson: It’s never too late to fulfill your dreams.
Susan Boyle had a difficult start to life. She was born oxygen deprived, was later diagnosed with learning disabilities, and suffered incessant name calling as a child. She lived in her family’s Council Estate (the UK’s version of social housing) for the bulk of her life and was chronically unemployed. She almost didn’t audition for Britain’s Got Talent, fearing she was “too old and that it was a young person’s game." It’s a good thing she did. Her audition stunned the judges and audiences alike. Although she did not win the competition (she came in second), Ms. Boyle has seen a rapid rise to global fame and is now recording her first album. Sometimes, just when you think you’ve missed the boat, you get a second chance to turn your life — and career — around. Don’t ever let your age or past experiences stop you from trying.
http://allhealthcare.monster.com/benefits/articles/3798-20-career-lessons-from-celebrities-?page=2&utm_content=ah_r1_20090922_cele
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Healthier Eggplant Parmesan and Unjury Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Healthier Eggplant Parmesan
Prep Time: 25 Minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes
Ready In: 1 Hour
Servings: 9
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
3 eggplants, peeled and sliced 1/4 in thick
4 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
6 cups spaghetti sauce
1 (16 ounce) package mozzarella cheese, (I like Sargento Reduced Fat Shredded)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1-2 large eggs beaten or ½ cup egg substitute
2 Tbsp skim milk or water
Place the eggplant slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Set aside for 10 to 15 minutes. Blot eggplant dry with clean paper towels.
Mix the following into a bowl (add extra seasoning if desired)
pepper Italian breadcrumbs
salt Italian seasoning
Break eggs into bowl and beat with milk:
Dip eggplant slices in egg mixture, then coat with bread crumbs and place on baking sheet. (Eggplant slices are baked, instead of fried) Spray baking sheet with Pam and place in a single layer of Eggplant on baking sheet and then spray Eggplant with Pam. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Take out and spray eggplant with Pam and then turn eggplant over. After you turn eggplant over spray eggplant with Pam. Bake for 10 minutes, or until eggplant is tender.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish spread spaghetti sauce to cover the bottom. Place a layer of eggplant slices in the sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with remaining ingredients, ending with the cheeses. Sprinkle basil on top.
Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown
Tip: Bake the eggplant and then freeze it before adding the cheese or sauce. This way it's quick and easy to pull out whatever you need. Just thaw and put it together.
UNJURY Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Use Reduced Fat Creamy Jif Peanut Butter, 1 recipe makes 11 balls
Measure 3/4 cup Reduced Fat Peanut Butter and add to mixing bowl
Add 3 scoops of Chocolate UNJURY, 1 scoop at a time, stirring well after each scoop until dough is formed
Roll dough into 11 balls
Freeze overnight
Optional additions: dried fruit (raisins, cranberries or cherries), spices (cinnamon or nutmeg), oatmeal, chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds)
Nutrition Facts per ball (makes 11):
10 grams protein, 9 grams carbohydrate, 6.5 grams fat, 3 grams sugar, 131 calories
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Other varieties of peanut butter may be used. Nutrition facts are based on using Reduced Fat Creamy Jif Peanut Butter. Be sure to check the label for variation in nutrition facts.
2 Store in freezer or refrigerator until ready to serve. The peanut butter will soften when left at room temperature.
© UNJURY Protein 2009
Prep Time: 25 Minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes
Ready In: 1 Hour
Servings: 9
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
3 eggplants, peeled and sliced 1/4 in thick
4 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
6 cups spaghetti sauce
1 (16 ounce) package mozzarella cheese, (I like Sargento Reduced Fat Shredded)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1-2 large eggs beaten or ½ cup egg substitute
2 Tbsp skim milk or water
Place the eggplant slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Set aside for 10 to 15 minutes. Blot eggplant dry with clean paper towels.
Mix the following into a bowl (add extra seasoning if desired)
pepper Italian breadcrumbs
salt Italian seasoning
Break eggs into bowl and beat with milk:
Dip eggplant slices in egg mixture, then coat with bread crumbs and place on baking sheet. (Eggplant slices are baked, instead of fried) Spray baking sheet with Pam and place in a single layer of Eggplant on baking sheet and then spray Eggplant with Pam. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Take out and spray eggplant with Pam and then turn eggplant over. After you turn eggplant over spray eggplant with Pam. Bake for 10 minutes, or until eggplant is tender.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish spread spaghetti sauce to cover the bottom. Place a layer of eggplant slices in the sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with remaining ingredients, ending with the cheeses. Sprinkle basil on top.
Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown
Tip: Bake the eggplant and then freeze it before adding the cheese or sauce. This way it's quick and easy to pull out whatever you need. Just thaw and put it together.
UNJURY Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Use Reduced Fat Creamy Jif Peanut Butter, 1 recipe makes 11 balls
Measure 3/4 cup Reduced Fat Peanut Butter and add to mixing bowl
Add 3 scoops of Chocolate UNJURY, 1 scoop at a time, stirring well after each scoop until dough is formed
Roll dough into 11 balls
Freeze overnight
Optional additions: dried fruit (raisins, cranberries or cherries), spices (cinnamon or nutmeg), oatmeal, chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds)
Nutrition Facts per ball (makes 11):
10 grams protein, 9 grams carbohydrate, 6.5 grams fat, 3 grams sugar, 131 calories
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Other varieties of peanut butter may be used. Nutrition facts are based on using Reduced Fat Creamy Jif Peanut Butter. Be sure to check the label for variation in nutrition facts.
2 Store in freezer or refrigerator until ready to serve. The peanut butter will soften when left at room temperature.
© UNJURY Protein 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Spices and Herbs A Surprising Source of Antioxidants
I Knew there was a reason I love to use spices in my recipes. You can take something so bland and turn it into a delicious recipe just by adding some spices. Go to the website to see how spices and herbs compair to fruits in giving you a source of antioxidants.
Really Interesting!!!
Take care,
Ginger
SPICES AND HERBS
A SURPRISING SOURCE OF ANTIOXIDANTS
ANTIOXIDANT COMPARISONS OF SPICES AND OTHER FOODS
New Reasons to Season
When you hear the word "antioxidants," what foods come to mind? Blueberries? Pomegranates? How about cinnamon?
That's right. When it comes to antioxidant prowess, cinnamon vies for top billing along with blueberries and pomegranate juice. You may be surprised that spices and herbs are extremely rich in antioxidants – with levels comparable to many fruits and vegetables, including today’s popular "super foods."
Spices and herbs make food taste great. You already know that. And you're probably aware of how they can help you eat healthier by cutting down on salt, fat and sugar when cooking. Now there's emerging evidence that these kitchen essentials may help protect your health. With each pinch, dash and spoonful, spices and herbs can help boost the antioxidant power of practically everything on your plate.
So what exactly are these things called antioxidants and why should you care? Antioxidants are extraordinary workhorses in our bodies. Studies suggest they provide a range of benefits, including giving our immune system a boost. They also appear to reduce inflammation, which is increasingly recognized as a first step in heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other chronic disease.
Preliminary studies indicate that spices and herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that may hold tremendous potential in promoting good health. Other studies suggest spices and herbs may help curb your hunger and boost your metabolism – which might make it easier for you to manage your weight.
Now more than ever, there are new reasons to season.
SOURCE: Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) of Selected Foods – 2007. Nutrient Data Laboratory
USDA, November 2007. www.ars.usda.gov/nutrientdata/ORAC.
* Wu X, Beecher GR, Holden JM, Haytowitz DB, Gebhardt SE, Prior RL. Lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidant
capacities of common foods in the United States. Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry.2004;52:4026-4037.
** Centre for Phytochemistry and Pharmacology, Southern Cross University, Australia.
www.spicesforhealth.com
SERVING ORAC
Really Interesting!!!
Take care,
Ginger
SPICES AND HERBS
A SURPRISING SOURCE OF ANTIOXIDANTS
ANTIOXIDANT COMPARISONS OF SPICES AND OTHER FOODS
New Reasons to Season
When you hear the word "antioxidants," what foods come to mind? Blueberries? Pomegranates? How about cinnamon?
That's right. When it comes to antioxidant prowess, cinnamon vies for top billing along with blueberries and pomegranate juice. You may be surprised that spices and herbs are extremely rich in antioxidants – with levels comparable to many fruits and vegetables, including today’s popular "super foods."
Spices and herbs make food taste great. You already know that. And you're probably aware of how they can help you eat healthier by cutting down on salt, fat and sugar when cooking. Now there's emerging evidence that these kitchen essentials may help protect your health. With each pinch, dash and spoonful, spices and herbs can help boost the antioxidant power of practically everything on your plate.
So what exactly are these things called antioxidants and why should you care? Antioxidants are extraordinary workhorses in our bodies. Studies suggest they provide a range of benefits, including giving our immune system a boost. They also appear to reduce inflammation, which is increasingly recognized as a first step in heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other chronic disease.
Preliminary studies indicate that spices and herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that may hold tremendous potential in promoting good health. Other studies suggest spices and herbs may help curb your hunger and boost your metabolism – which might make it easier for you to manage your weight.
Now more than ever, there are new reasons to season.
SOURCE: Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) of Selected Foods – 2007. Nutrient Data Laboratory
USDA, November 2007. www.ars.usda.gov/nutrientdata/ORAC.
* Wu X, Beecher GR, Holden JM, Haytowitz DB, Gebhardt SE, Prior RL. Lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidant
capacities of common foods in the United States. Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry.2004;52:4026-4037.
** Centre for Phytochemistry and Pharmacology, Southern Cross University, Australia.
www.spicesforhealth.com
SERVING ORAC
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Fall Recipes
I love the fall and especially love to cook in the fall. Hope you enjoy the recipes.
Hugs,
Ginger
Light Pumpkin Mousse
Ingredients
1 cup Canned pumpkin
1/2 cup COLD milk
1 3 oz. Package vanilla instant pudding
1 tsp. Pie spice or
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. nutmeg, 1/4 tsp. ginger
3 1/2 cups Fat Free Cool Whip
Preparation
Combine pumpkin, milk, pudding, and spices. Beat on lowest speed for 1 minute. Fold in Cool Whip. Spoon into dessert dish.
Walnut Macaroons
2 cups quick cooking oats
2 Tbsp. sugar substitute
2 tsp. vanilla
½ cup canola oil
1 egg substitute equivalent
½ cup finely chopped walnuts
Directions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, sugar substitute, salt,
vanilla and oil. Mix thoroughly, refrigerate over night. Add eggs and walnuts to mixture, blend thoroughly.
2. Place cookie mixture into a teaspoon level, and push out onto un-greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Transfer cookies to racks and cool.
White Chili
2 lbs Cooked Shredded Chicken Breast
1 T olive oil
2 med. Onions chopped
4 garlic cloves minced
2 4 oz cans chopped mild green chilies
2 T ground cumin
1 tsp. oregano
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
3 16 oz cans great northern beans
6 cups chicken stock or 3 14 oz cans chicken broth
2 cups Monterey jack cheese
salt and pepper to taste
Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions sauté 5 minutes; add garlic, chilies, oregano, cayenne pepper and cumin and sauté for 2 minutes.
Add broth, stir. Add Beans bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Add shredded chicken and cheese.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Top with extra cheese.
**** (I boil boneless, skinless chicken breast and then shred with a fork)
Pumpkin Tea Bread
Preheat oven to 325 degrees
2 cups sugar (or splenda)
1 cup oil (you can replace with 1 cup applesauce)
3 large eggs (or egg substitute)
2 cups canned pumpkin (or fresh)
3 cups self rising flour
2 t. ground cinnamon
1 ½ t. ground nutmeg
1 t. ground cloves
½ t. ground mace
1 t. ground ginger
Blend the sugar and oil (or applesauce) well with mixer. As you are beating add the eggs one at a time, beat lightly. Add pumpkin and mix well. Sift the flour and spices into the creamed mixture. Beat on low speed until blended.
Pour batter into a greased, floured pan. (This batter will make 2 loaf pans)
Bake 1 hour on 325 degrees or until lightly brown. When done leave in pan for 15 minutes, then remove from pan and cool on wire racks before serving.
*Test with toothpick, when toothpick comes out clean, loaf is done.
Baked Apples
2 apples, cored
4 teaspoons chopped dried fruit, (cranberries, raisins or dates)
4 teaspoons chopped toasted nuts, (pecans, walnuts or almonds)
1 teaspoon splenda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Combine fruit, nuts, splenda and cinnamon; spoon into the apples. Place the apples in a baking dish (If you have small individual baking dish it works better). Cover with foil. Bake until tender, about 45 minutes.
Serve topped with yogurt.
Hugs,
Ginger
Light Pumpkin Mousse
Ingredients
1 cup Canned pumpkin
1/2 cup COLD milk
1 3 oz. Package vanilla instant pudding
1 tsp. Pie spice or
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. nutmeg, 1/4 tsp. ginger
3 1/2 cups Fat Free Cool Whip
Preparation
Combine pumpkin, milk, pudding, and spices. Beat on lowest speed for 1 minute. Fold in Cool Whip. Spoon into dessert dish.
Walnut Macaroons
2 cups quick cooking oats
2 Tbsp. sugar substitute
2 tsp. vanilla
½ cup canola oil
1 egg substitute equivalent
½ cup finely chopped walnuts
Directions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, sugar substitute, salt,
vanilla and oil. Mix thoroughly, refrigerate over night. Add eggs and walnuts to mixture, blend thoroughly.
2. Place cookie mixture into a teaspoon level, and push out onto un-greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Transfer cookies to racks and cool.
White Chili
2 lbs Cooked Shredded Chicken Breast
1 T olive oil
2 med. Onions chopped
4 garlic cloves minced
2 4 oz cans chopped mild green chilies
2 T ground cumin
1 tsp. oregano
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
3 16 oz cans great northern beans
6 cups chicken stock or 3 14 oz cans chicken broth
2 cups Monterey jack cheese
salt and pepper to taste
Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions sauté 5 minutes; add garlic, chilies, oregano, cayenne pepper and cumin and sauté for 2 minutes.
Add broth, stir. Add Beans bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Add shredded chicken and cheese.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Top with extra cheese.
**** (I boil boneless, skinless chicken breast and then shred with a fork)
Pumpkin Tea Bread
Preheat oven to 325 degrees
2 cups sugar (or splenda)
1 cup oil (you can replace with 1 cup applesauce)
3 large eggs (or egg substitute)
2 cups canned pumpkin (or fresh)
3 cups self rising flour
2 t. ground cinnamon
1 ½ t. ground nutmeg
1 t. ground cloves
½ t. ground mace
1 t. ground ginger
Blend the sugar and oil (or applesauce) well with mixer. As you are beating add the eggs one at a time, beat lightly. Add pumpkin and mix well. Sift the flour and spices into the creamed mixture. Beat on low speed until blended.
Pour batter into a greased, floured pan. (This batter will make 2 loaf pans)
Bake 1 hour on 325 degrees or until lightly brown. When done leave in pan for 15 minutes, then remove from pan and cool on wire racks before serving.
*Test with toothpick, when toothpick comes out clean, loaf is done.
Baked Apples
2 apples, cored
4 teaspoons chopped dried fruit, (cranberries, raisins or dates)
4 teaspoons chopped toasted nuts, (pecans, walnuts or almonds)
1 teaspoon splenda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Combine fruit, nuts, splenda and cinnamon; spoon into the apples. Place the apples in a baking dish (If you have small individual baking dish it works better). Cover with foil. Bake until tender, about 45 minutes.
Serve topped with yogurt.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Study Finds Weight-Loss Surgery Safer Than Thought
Sometimes I wonder if studies really show how unsafe it was for someone like me to stay obese....and how much better the quality of life is for me now! Most of the time we only hear the bad outcomes of Weight Loss Surgery not the wonderful benifits people have after Weight Loss Surgery. I thank God everyday that I had the opportunity to have Weight Loss Surgery! Take a look at this article.....
Hugs,
Ginger
Study Finds Weight-Loss Surgery Safer Than Thought
Death risk only 0.3 percent, chances of serious complications 4.3 percent
URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_87501.html (*this news item will not be available after 10/27/2009)
HealthDay
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
WEDNESDAY, July 29 (HealthDay News) -- For those considering bariatric surgery to combat significant obesity, a new study suggests the risk of complications may be much lower than what has previously been reported.
The study, which looked at both gastric bypass surgery and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (lap-band surgery), found that the risk of death for these surgeries was 0.3 percent and the risk of a major adverse outcome was 4.3 percent.
"Bariatric surgery is safe," said study co-author Dr. Bruce Wolfe, a professor of surgery at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. "Certain factors [such as a history of blood clots, obstructive sleep apnea or impaired functional status] increase the risk of complications, but you can discuss these risks as well as the potential benefits with your surgeon."
Results of the study appear in the July 30 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
As obesity rates have risen, so, too, has the popularity of bariatric surgery. Although it is a major surgical procedure, the benefits to the severely obese generally far outweigh the risks. In fact, the risk of death over time is about 35 percent lower for someone who's had the surgery compared to someone who remains extremely obese, according to background information in the study.
However, the surgery isn't for everyone. "If you're five or 10 pounds overweight, bariatric surgery isn't for you," said Dr. Malcolm K. Robinson, an assistant professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School, and the author of an accompanying editorial in the same issue of the journal.
"Basically, when I or my colleagues advise surgery, it's because the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks. In general, that's the case for someone with a BMI [body-mass index] of 35 and weight-related health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, or someone with a BMI of 40 or more," said Robinson, who added that as the risks of the surgery keep dropping, those BMI numbers may get even lower in the future.
The current study included 4,776 people who underwent one of the following types of bariatric surgery: lap-band surgery (1,198 patients), laparoscopic gastric bypass (2,975 patients), open gastric bypass (437 patients) or another procedure (166 patients). All of the surgeries were done by surgeons specifically qualified for this study. All of the surgeries took place between March 2005 and December 2007.
The average age of the study participant was 44.5 years old, 22 percent of the study volunteers were male and 11 percent were nonwhite. The average BMI in the study was 46.5. More than half of the study group had at least two coexisting medical conditions, the study authors noted.
In his editorial, Robinson points out that these procedures may represent "best-case scenarios" because they were done by experienced surgeons in high-volume bariatric centers. However, he said that because the field of bariatric surgery has advanced so much in the past few years, he believes these results are a "generally achievable phenomenon."
Both Robinson and Wolfe recommend that any person considering bariatric surgery should choose a facility that's been designated as a "Center of Excellence" because that means that the surgeon and the whole health-care team are qualified and experienced.
SOURCES: Bruce Wolfe, M.D., professor, surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Ore.; Malcolm K. Robinson, M.D., assistant professor, surgery, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; July 30, 2009, New England Journal of Medicine
HealthDay
Copyright (c) 2009 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.
Hugs,
Ginger
Study Finds Weight-Loss Surgery Safer Than Thought
Death risk only 0.3 percent, chances of serious complications 4.3 percent
URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_87501.html (*this news item will not be available after 10/27/2009)
HealthDay
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
WEDNESDAY, July 29 (HealthDay News) -- For those considering bariatric surgery to combat significant obesity, a new study suggests the risk of complications may be much lower than what has previously been reported.
The study, which looked at both gastric bypass surgery and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (lap-band surgery), found that the risk of death for these surgeries was 0.3 percent and the risk of a major adverse outcome was 4.3 percent.
"Bariatric surgery is safe," said study co-author Dr. Bruce Wolfe, a professor of surgery at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. "Certain factors [such as a history of blood clots, obstructive sleep apnea or impaired functional status] increase the risk of complications, but you can discuss these risks as well as the potential benefits with your surgeon."
Results of the study appear in the July 30 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
As obesity rates have risen, so, too, has the popularity of bariatric surgery. Although it is a major surgical procedure, the benefits to the severely obese generally far outweigh the risks. In fact, the risk of death over time is about 35 percent lower for someone who's had the surgery compared to someone who remains extremely obese, according to background information in the study.
However, the surgery isn't for everyone. "If you're five or 10 pounds overweight, bariatric surgery isn't for you," said Dr. Malcolm K. Robinson, an assistant professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School, and the author of an accompanying editorial in the same issue of the journal.
"Basically, when I or my colleagues advise surgery, it's because the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks. In general, that's the case for someone with a BMI [body-mass index] of 35 and weight-related health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, or someone with a BMI of 40 or more," said Robinson, who added that as the risks of the surgery keep dropping, those BMI numbers may get even lower in the future.
The current study included 4,776 people who underwent one of the following types of bariatric surgery: lap-band surgery (1,198 patients), laparoscopic gastric bypass (2,975 patients), open gastric bypass (437 patients) or another procedure (166 patients). All of the surgeries were done by surgeons specifically qualified for this study. All of the surgeries took place between March 2005 and December 2007.
The average age of the study participant was 44.5 years old, 22 percent of the study volunteers were male and 11 percent were nonwhite. The average BMI in the study was 46.5. More than half of the study group had at least two coexisting medical conditions, the study authors noted.
In his editorial, Robinson points out that these procedures may represent "best-case scenarios" because they were done by experienced surgeons in high-volume bariatric centers. However, he said that because the field of bariatric surgery has advanced so much in the past few years, he believes these results are a "generally achievable phenomenon."
Both Robinson and Wolfe recommend that any person considering bariatric surgery should choose a facility that's been designated as a "Center of Excellence" because that means that the surgeon and the whole health-care team are qualified and experienced.
SOURCES: Bruce Wolfe, M.D., professor, surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Ore.; Malcolm K. Robinson, M.D., assistant professor, surgery, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; July 30, 2009, New England Journal of Medicine
HealthDay
Copyright (c) 2009 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.
As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink
Now more than ever we read more and more studies of how obesity is so harmful to our health. I know that when I was obese not only did I look older, but I felt older because of the limited mobility I had and lack physical activity I was able to do.
Now, at average weight I feel like there is no limitation on what I can do physically. I realize I get older every day but since I feel so good, I forget I am almost 50 years old....It is only a number....and I intend to keep working hard and staying fit for a long time.
Read the article below and share with all you know how important it is to get the WEIGHT OFF AND KEEP IT OFF.
Much love,
Ginger
As Waistlines Widen, Brains ShrinkWEDNESDAY, August 26 (HealthDay News) – For every excess pound piled on the body, the brain gets a little bit smaller. That's the message from new research that found that elderly individuals who were obese or overweight had significantly less brain tissue than individuals of normal weight.
"The brains of obese people looked 16 years older than their healthy counterparts while [those of] overweight people looked eight years older," said the senior author of the study published online in Human Brain Mapping. The findings could have serious implications for aging, overweight or obese individuals, including a heightened risk of Alzheimer's, the researchers said.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_88574.html
Now, at average weight I feel like there is no limitation on what I can do physically. I realize I get older every day but since I feel so good, I forget I am almost 50 years old....It is only a number....and I intend to keep working hard and staying fit for a long time.
Read the article below and share with all you know how important it is to get the WEIGHT OFF AND KEEP IT OFF.
Much love,
Ginger
As Waistlines Widen, Brains ShrinkWEDNESDAY, August 26 (HealthDay News) – For every excess pound piled on the body, the brain gets a little bit smaller. That's the message from new research that found that elderly individuals who were obese or overweight had significantly less brain tissue than individuals of normal weight.
"The brains of obese people looked 16 years older than their healthy counterparts while [those of] overweight people looked eight years older," said the senior author of the study published online in Human Brain Mapping. The findings could have serious implications for aging, overweight or obese individuals, including a heightened risk of Alzheimer's, the researchers said.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_88574.html
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust
Hello,
Some People call it a Tart I call it a cobbler. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it!
Hugs,
Ginger
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust
Ingredients
Crust
1 cup crushed walnuts,
1 large egg white
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 tablespoon canola oil
Pinch of salt
Filling
8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), softened
¼ cup reduced-fat sour cream
¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons splenda, divided
2 cups fresh blueberries
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust Ingredients Cont.
Instructions 1. To prepare crust: Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Coarsely chop walnuts in a food processor.
3. Whisk egg white in a medium bowl until frothy. Add the crumb mixture, butter, oil and salt; toss to combine. Press the mixture into the bottom and 1/2 inch up the sides of a 9-inch removable-bottom tart pan. Set the pan on a baking sheet. Bake until dry and slightly darker around the edges, about 8 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
4. To prepare filling: Beat cream cheese, sour cream and 1/4 cup splenda in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth. When the crust is cool, spread the filling evenly into it, being careful not to break up the delicate crust. Arrange blueberries on the filling, pressing lightly so they set in. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons splenda over the berries. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust
Instructions Cont.
Tips
Refrigerate for up to 1 day. | Equipment: 9-inch removable-bottom tart pan
Tip: To toast walnuts, spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F, stirring once, until fragrant, 7 to 9 minutes.
Some People call it a Tart I call it a cobbler. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it!
Hugs,
Ginger
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust
Ingredients
Crust
1 cup crushed walnuts,
1 large egg white
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 tablespoon canola oil
Pinch of salt
Filling
8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), softened
¼ cup reduced-fat sour cream
¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons splenda, divided
2 cups fresh blueberries
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust Ingredients Cont.
Instructions 1. To prepare crust: Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Coarsely chop walnuts in a food processor.
3. Whisk egg white in a medium bowl until frothy. Add the crumb mixture, butter, oil and salt; toss to combine. Press the mixture into the bottom and 1/2 inch up the sides of a 9-inch removable-bottom tart pan. Set the pan on a baking sheet. Bake until dry and slightly darker around the edges, about 8 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
4. To prepare filling: Beat cream cheese, sour cream and 1/4 cup splenda in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth. When the crust is cool, spread the filling evenly into it, being careful not to break up the delicate crust. Arrange blueberries on the filling, pressing lightly so they set in. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons splenda over the berries. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Blueberry Tart with Walnut Crust
Instructions Cont.
Tips
Refrigerate for up to 1 day. | Equipment: 9-inch removable-bottom tart pan
Tip: To toast walnuts, spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F, stirring once, until fragrant, 7 to 9 minutes.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Sun Dried Tomato/ Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
I made this last night and my boyfriend couldn't stop eating it. It is very easy to make and the presentation was very eye appealing and the flavor was incredible.
Hope you enjoy it!
Ginger
Sun Dried Tomatoe/Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Boneless/skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 jar sun dried tomatoes (drained and patted dry)
Goat cheese (seasoned with basil and roasted garlic)
Italian sausage (optional)
½ Vidalia onion
Italian Seasoning
Garlic Powder
Parmesan Cheese
First cook and scramble sausage with onions in a pan drain and sit aside.
Spray glass baking dish with Pam. Place chicken (breast or thigh) in dish with room between each piece. Put sausage and onion on top of chicken. You are going to layer first 3 to 4 slices of sun dried tomatoes then sliced goat cheese and then place another piece of chicken on top.
Pour diced tomatoes with juice over chicken and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic.
Bake until chicken is done. Then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and and bake 5 more minutes.
Hope you enjoy it!
Ginger
Sun Dried Tomatoe/Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Boneless/skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 jar sun dried tomatoes (drained and patted dry)
Goat cheese (seasoned with basil and roasted garlic)
Italian sausage (optional)
½ Vidalia onion
Italian Seasoning
Garlic Powder
Parmesan Cheese
First cook and scramble sausage with onions in a pan drain and sit aside.
Spray glass baking dish with Pam. Place chicken (breast or thigh) in dish with room between each piece. Put sausage and onion on top of chicken. You are going to layer first 3 to 4 slices of sun dried tomatoes then sliced goat cheese and then place another piece of chicken on top.
Pour diced tomatoes with juice over chicken and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic.
Bake until chicken is done. Then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and and bake 5 more minutes.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
What I think about the Times article "Why Exercise Won't Make You Thin"
What I do know and I know from my own experience is.....eating healthy alone or exercise alone will not make me lose weight and keep it off in the long run. If I exercise regularly and eat healthy I am able to lose the weight and maintain it. I lost over 200lbs doing this and I have been able to maintain the weight loss for 8 1/2 years.
It is all about a Lifestyle change, not a temporary diet. We have to learn what works for us and do it!
I have attached an article below from MSN Health & Fitness "Is Exercise a Waste of Time? Addressing the same topic. I think it has a lot of really good information.
Is Exercise a Waste of Time?
Why Time magazine is wrong about working out.
Posted by David Zinczenko on Thursday, August 13, 2009 8:16 PM
Sometimes, when a news report seems to defy logic, it’s because someone hasn’t done their homework. And that’s what’s happened over at Time magazine with its latest cover story, “Why Exercise Won’t Make You Thin.” The article claims that working out is not only useless for weight loss, but can actually lead to weight gain.
This contention hinges mostly on a recent study done at Louisiana State University. Scientists there divided sedentary women into four groups: One group didn’t exercise, and three others performed different amounts of physical activity. All of the groups were told to stick to their typical diet.
The results: The women who exercised the most didn’t lose any more weight than those who didn’t exercise at all over six months. How can this be?
Well, first understand how much exercise these women were doing. The group that exercised the most burned around 1000 calories a week, or about 140 calories a day. The other two exercise groups burned around 700 and 350 calories a week, respectively.
This isn’t a tremendous amount of exercise—you might burn around 140 calories vacuuming your house—so no one would anticipate a tremendous amount of weight loss. Even so, the researchers calculated how many pounds they would expect each woman to lose, and their predictions were spot-on for the two groups that did lesser amounts of exercise. For these ladies, the exercise did indeed work.
However, the other group of exercisers fell about two-and-a-half pounds short of their predicted weight loss. The Time story states: “Whether because exercise made them hungry or because they wanted to reward themselves (or both), most of the women who exercised ate more than they did before they started the experiment.”
Not so, according to the published data. The writer of the Time story either misread the results, or conveniently skipped over the parts that didn’t support his assertion. The study authors clearly state that the women in all four groups ate fewer calories on average.
To be fair, the calorie-intake numbers probably aren’t accurate. The study’s lead author, Timothy Church, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., admits that since this data was attained from a survey—and not measured directly—it’s not very reliable.
This further muddles the findings. And given that the non-exercisers lost weight, too, one could conclude this study proves that sitting on the couch causes weight loss. But Time magazine isn’t reporting that. At least not this week.
Instead, the Time author tries to support his notion that exercise doesn’t help you lose weight by pointing out that some women gained more than 10 pounds over the six-month study. “What the article fails to report is that other women lost even more weight than we expected,” says Dr. Church.
Bottom line: Our responses to diet and exercise are all highly individualized, explains Dr. Church. Sure, some people might compensate for their exercise by eating more, but according to Dr. Church, this isn’t the fault of exercise. More likely, he says, it’s because people don’t realize how easy it is to consume 1,000 calories at the drive-thru compared to burning just 250 calories on a treadmill. “If your weight is a concern for you, exercise is important. But it doesn’t give you license to eat what you want,” cautions Dr. Church. “You still need to pay close attention to what you’re putting in your mouth.”
Even so-called “healthy” food can have a surprising number of calories. Check out our list of the worst salads in America, including a 2,115-calorie salad from California Pizza Kitchen.
As for exercise making you hungrier, Dr. Church doesn’t think that’s the case. And overall, the research is mixed on the matter. But even if exercise does stoke your appetite, you still have the power of choice. Are you going to reach for an apple—or a big bowl of ice cream?
Dr. Church insists that we have much to learn on this topic, and wants you to know this: “When you look at people who lose weight and keep it off, what you find is that almost 100 percent of them not only watch what they eat, but are also regular exercisers.”
Want even more reasons why Time is wrong about exercise? Keep reading.
Exercise can protect your muscle. A Penn State University study found that people who lifted weights along with a program of diet and aerobic exercise had the same weight loss as those who only dieted (or who dieted and performed aerobic exercise). The difference? The lifters lost 5 pounds more fat because almost none of their weight loss came from muscle. Read: Resistance training didn’t improve weight loss, but it did improve fat loss. And isn’t that what really matters?
Exercise may help you stick to your diet. University of Pittsburgh researchers studied 169 dieters for 2 years and found that the participants who didn’t follow a 3-hour-a-week training plan ate more than their allotted 1,500 calories per day. The reverse was also true—sneaking snacks sabotaged their workouts. “One healthy behavior without the other will not work—you need to diet and exercise to maintain long-term weight loss,” says lead study author John Jakicic, Ph.D. That’s because both actions can act as a reminder to stay on track.
Exercise may target belly fat. While weight loss was similar among all four groups in the LSU study, only the groups that exercised saw their waist size decrease. The Time story downplays this finding, but isn’t it relevant? Think about it: This study actually shows that even a small amount of low-intensity exercise—performed in, say, just three 24-minute sessions a week—could help your jeans fit better. In other words, it makes you thinner. Doesn’t sound like a waste of time to me.
It is all about a Lifestyle change, not a temporary diet. We have to learn what works for us and do it!
I have attached an article below from MSN Health & Fitness "Is Exercise a Waste of Time? Addressing the same topic. I think it has a lot of really good information.
Is Exercise a Waste of Time?
Why Time magazine is wrong about working out.
Posted by David Zinczenko on Thursday, August 13, 2009 8:16 PM
Sometimes, when a news report seems to defy logic, it’s because someone hasn’t done their homework. And that’s what’s happened over at Time magazine with its latest cover story, “Why Exercise Won’t Make You Thin.” The article claims that working out is not only useless for weight loss, but can actually lead to weight gain.
This contention hinges mostly on a recent study done at Louisiana State University. Scientists there divided sedentary women into four groups: One group didn’t exercise, and three others performed different amounts of physical activity. All of the groups were told to stick to their typical diet.
The results: The women who exercised the most didn’t lose any more weight than those who didn’t exercise at all over six months. How can this be?
Well, first understand how much exercise these women were doing. The group that exercised the most burned around 1000 calories a week, or about 140 calories a day. The other two exercise groups burned around 700 and 350 calories a week, respectively.
This isn’t a tremendous amount of exercise—you might burn around 140 calories vacuuming your house—so no one would anticipate a tremendous amount of weight loss. Even so, the researchers calculated how many pounds they would expect each woman to lose, and their predictions were spot-on for the two groups that did lesser amounts of exercise. For these ladies, the exercise did indeed work.
However, the other group of exercisers fell about two-and-a-half pounds short of their predicted weight loss. The Time story states: “Whether because exercise made them hungry or because they wanted to reward themselves (or both), most of the women who exercised ate more than they did before they started the experiment.”
Not so, according to the published data. The writer of the Time story either misread the results, or conveniently skipped over the parts that didn’t support his assertion. The study authors clearly state that the women in all four groups ate fewer calories on average.
To be fair, the calorie-intake numbers probably aren’t accurate. The study’s lead author, Timothy Church, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., admits that since this data was attained from a survey—and not measured directly—it’s not very reliable.
This further muddles the findings. And given that the non-exercisers lost weight, too, one could conclude this study proves that sitting on the couch causes weight loss. But Time magazine isn’t reporting that. At least not this week.
Instead, the Time author tries to support his notion that exercise doesn’t help you lose weight by pointing out that some women gained more than 10 pounds over the six-month study. “What the article fails to report is that other women lost even more weight than we expected,” says Dr. Church.
Bottom line: Our responses to diet and exercise are all highly individualized, explains Dr. Church. Sure, some people might compensate for their exercise by eating more, but according to Dr. Church, this isn’t the fault of exercise. More likely, he says, it’s because people don’t realize how easy it is to consume 1,000 calories at the drive-thru compared to burning just 250 calories on a treadmill. “If your weight is a concern for you, exercise is important. But it doesn’t give you license to eat what you want,” cautions Dr. Church. “You still need to pay close attention to what you’re putting in your mouth.”
Even so-called “healthy” food can have a surprising number of calories. Check out our list of the worst salads in America, including a 2,115-calorie salad from California Pizza Kitchen.
As for exercise making you hungrier, Dr. Church doesn’t think that’s the case. And overall, the research is mixed on the matter. But even if exercise does stoke your appetite, you still have the power of choice. Are you going to reach for an apple—or a big bowl of ice cream?
Dr. Church insists that we have much to learn on this topic, and wants you to know this: “When you look at people who lose weight and keep it off, what you find is that almost 100 percent of them not only watch what they eat, but are also regular exercisers.”
Want even more reasons why Time is wrong about exercise? Keep reading.
Exercise can protect your muscle. A Penn State University study found that people who lifted weights along with a program of diet and aerobic exercise had the same weight loss as those who only dieted (or who dieted and performed aerobic exercise). The difference? The lifters lost 5 pounds more fat because almost none of their weight loss came from muscle. Read: Resistance training didn’t improve weight loss, but it did improve fat loss. And isn’t that what really matters?
Exercise may help you stick to your diet. University of Pittsburgh researchers studied 169 dieters for 2 years and found that the participants who didn’t follow a 3-hour-a-week training plan ate more than their allotted 1,500 calories per day. The reverse was also true—sneaking snacks sabotaged their workouts. “One healthy behavior without the other will not work—you need to diet and exercise to maintain long-term weight loss,” says lead study author John Jakicic, Ph.D. That’s because both actions can act as a reminder to stay on track.
Exercise may target belly fat. While weight loss was similar among all four groups in the LSU study, only the groups that exercised saw their waist size decrease. The Time story downplays this finding, but isn’t it relevant? Think about it: This study actually shows that even a small amount of low-intensity exercise—performed in, say, just three 24-minute sessions a week—could help your jeans fit better. In other words, it makes you thinner. Doesn’t sound like a waste of time to me.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
On-Q PainBuster; Pain relieve after surgery
I just came across this and wanted to share it. When I have had surgery I have had side effects such as being groggy,itching and nausea. This form of pain control can be used with many different types of surgery and you wouldn't have some of the side effects other pain releivers give you. So, if you are expecting to have surgery I think it would be worth checking into and talking to your surgeon.
Take care,
Ginger
ON-Q is put in place by your surgeon and provides continuous pain relief in those important first days after surgery.
ON-Q is a small high-tech balloon that holds local anesthetic (a pain numbing medication) and delivers it through a tiny specially-designed tube directly into the surgical incision site. The medication is delivered continuously and slowly for up to five days after surgery.
Similar to your dentist injecting novocaine into your mouth to create a numbing effect, ON-Q soaks the surgical site to create a numbing effect. Because ON-Q directs the medication only into the area where you have pain, the rest of your body stays in your normal, comfortable state.
The result? Your pain is relieved and you avoid the nausea, breathing problems, drowsiness, grogginess, constipation or sleepiness - all of which are side effects of narcotic painkillers.
Feel better faster with ON-Q. Less pain, more smiles.
For more information go to
Take care,
Ginger
ON-Q is put in place by your surgeon and provides continuous pain relief in those important first days after surgery.
ON-Q is a small high-tech balloon that holds local anesthetic (a pain numbing medication) and delivers it through a tiny specially-designed tube directly into the surgical incision site. The medication is delivered continuously and slowly for up to five days after surgery.
Similar to your dentist injecting novocaine into your mouth to create a numbing effect, ON-Q soaks the surgical site to create a numbing effect. Because ON-Q directs the medication only into the area where you have pain, the rest of your body stays in your normal, comfortable state.
The result? Your pain is relieved and you avoid the nausea, breathing problems, drowsiness, grogginess, constipation or sleepiness - all of which are side effects of narcotic painkillers.
Feel better faster with ON-Q. Less pain, more smiles.
For more information go to
Monday, August 10, 2009
Hummus Recipes
Hummus is very easy to prepare. There are so many flavors you can choose from. And it is healthy and really tasty. You have many options to eat with Hummus such as baked pita chips, veggies, etc.
My children were coming over for dinner and I had Garlic Hummus as an appitizer. They said Hummus...Yuk and then tried it and loved it. Now they say Mom I hope you have Hummus. Also, my boyfriend said, do we have anything to munch on. I said, yes, we have Hummus. He too said Yuk, then tasted it and loved it. We were going to an outdoor concert and he said, Let's get some Hummus....so you see you can turn them around and they are eating healthy and don't even know it.
Enjoy,
Ginger
Black Bean Hummus
1 can black beans – rinsed and drained
2 tbl of tahini
1 garlic clove chopped
½ cup olive oil
Cayenne pepper
Mix in food processor. Taste. Adjust seasoning and oil as needed
Spicy Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo
beans, drained
1 (4 ounce) jar roasted red
peppers
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons tahini 1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh
parsley
DIRECTIONS:
1. In an electric blender or food processor, puree the chickpeas, red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne, and salt. Process, using long pulses, until the mixture is fairly smooth, and slightly fluffy. Make sure to scrape the mixture off the sides of the food processor or blender in between pulses. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (The hummus can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Return to room temperature before serving.)
2. Sprinkle the hummus with the chopped parsley before serving.
Roasted Garlic Hummus
1 head garlic
1 19-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed, or 2 cups cooked chickpeas
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon tahini (sesame paste)
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt to taste
Paprika for garnish
1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove the loose papery outside skin from the garlic head without separating the cloves. Slice off the top 1/2 inch. Wrap in a small square of foil and roast until the garlic is very soft, about 40 minutes. Unwrap and cool slightly. Separate the cloves and peel.
2. Puree the garlic, chickpeas, lemon juice, soy sauce, tahini and water in a food processor. Add more or less water as necessary to make a fairly firm dip.
3. Transfer to a small serving bowl, stir in parsley and season with salt. Garnish with a sprig of parsley and a sprinkling of paprika.
Per 2-tablespoon serving: 47 calories; 1 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 8 g carbohydrate; 2 g protein; 1 g fiber; 121 mg sodium; 74 mg potassium.
Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
My children were coming over for dinner and I had Garlic Hummus as an appitizer. They said Hummus...Yuk and then tried it and loved it. Now they say Mom I hope you have Hummus. Also, my boyfriend said, do we have anything to munch on. I said, yes, we have Hummus. He too said Yuk, then tasted it and loved it. We were going to an outdoor concert and he said, Let's get some Hummus....so you see you can turn them around and they are eating healthy and don't even know it.
Enjoy,
Ginger
Black Bean Hummus
1 can black beans – rinsed and drained
2 tbl of tahini
1 garlic clove chopped
½ cup olive oil
Cayenne pepper
Mix in food processor. Taste. Adjust seasoning and oil as needed
Spicy Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo
beans, drained
1 (4 ounce) jar roasted red
peppers
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons tahini 1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh
parsley
DIRECTIONS:
1. In an electric blender or food processor, puree the chickpeas, red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne, and salt. Process, using long pulses, until the mixture is fairly smooth, and slightly fluffy. Make sure to scrape the mixture off the sides of the food processor or blender in between pulses. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (The hummus can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Return to room temperature before serving.)
2. Sprinkle the hummus with the chopped parsley before serving.
Roasted Garlic Hummus
1 head garlic
1 19-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed, or 2 cups cooked chickpeas
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon tahini (sesame paste)
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt to taste
Paprika for garnish
1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove the loose papery outside skin from the garlic head without separating the cloves. Slice off the top 1/2 inch. Wrap in a small square of foil and roast until the garlic is very soft, about 40 minutes. Unwrap and cool slightly. Separate the cloves and peel.
2. Puree the garlic, chickpeas, lemon juice, soy sauce, tahini and water in a food processor. Add more or less water as necessary to make a fairly firm dip.
3. Transfer to a small serving bowl, stir in parsley and season with salt. Garnish with a sprig of parsley and a sprinkling of paprika.
Per 2-tablespoon serving: 47 calories; 1 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 8 g carbohydrate; 2 g protein; 1 g fiber; 121 mg sodium; 74 mg potassium.
Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Friday, August 7, 2009
The Egg Verus The Bagel
The Good Egg
I really like this website check it out. They have great tips on eating healthy and doing thing to keep your body feeling young.
Below is another reason for us to eat our protein versus a bagel (or carb). RealAge live life to your youngest
The Good Egg Here's some welcome news for breakfast lovers: Eggs may help reduce your weight.
Eggs already have been reinstated as a health food (the major Nurses' Health Study cleared eggs of upping heart attack and stroke risk). Now there's evidence that people who scramble, boil, or poach one for breakfast -- versus eating a bagel with the same number of calories -- bypass junk-food cravings and eat fewer calories for at least 24 hours, without even trying.
Thanks to what turned out to be a bad cholesterol rap, you may have avoided eggs for years. But eggs have always been a good source of nutrients and protein. And for reasons that aren't completely clear, it turns out that they make the body feel fuller longer. In one study, people with weight problems who started the day with an egg were still eating fewer calories than normal by lunch the following day. You know that line about "the incredible, edible . . ."? Looks like the jingle writer had a clue. RealAge Benefit: Maintaining your weight and body mass index at a desirable level can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger. ReferencesPShort-term effect of eggs on satiety in overweight.
http://www.realage.com/ct/my-realage/
http://www.realage.com/ct/tips/2991
I really like this website check it out. They have great tips on eating healthy and doing thing to keep your body feeling young.
Below is another reason for us to eat our protein versus a bagel (or carb). RealAge live life to your youngest
The Good Egg Here's some welcome news for breakfast lovers: Eggs may help reduce your weight.
Eggs already have been reinstated as a health food (the major Nurses' Health Study cleared eggs of upping heart attack and stroke risk). Now there's evidence that people who scramble, boil, or poach one for breakfast -- versus eating a bagel with the same number of calories -- bypass junk-food cravings and eat fewer calories for at least 24 hours, without even trying.
Thanks to what turned out to be a bad cholesterol rap, you may have avoided eggs for years. But eggs have always been a good source of nutrients and protein. And for reasons that aren't completely clear, it turns out that they make the body feel fuller longer. In one study, people with weight problems who started the day with an egg were still eating fewer calories than normal by lunch the following day. You know that line about "the incredible, edible . . ."? Looks like the jingle writer had a clue. RealAge Benefit: Maintaining your weight and body mass index at a desirable level can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger. ReferencesPShort-term effect of eggs on satiety in overweight.
http://www.realage.com/ct/my-realage/
http://www.realage.com/ct/tips/2991
Thursday, August 6, 2009
The Self-Esteem Workbook
Sometimes we need help with the way we feel about ourselves; learning to love ourselves. Yesterday my daughter told me about this self help workbook. I thought it was worth sharing. I bought it at Barnes and Noble for her for $20.00 but I did find it on line at amazon.com for $13.57.
Remember the surgeon only does surgery on our stomach we have to do the rest. I am over 8 years out and sometimes my “Fat Girl” (feelings of insecurities) still come out. There are many books out there that can help us build our Self-Esteem. And there is also counseling. Do the work you need to do to make yourself a better person inside and out! Learn to love you!!! You are worth it!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
The Self-Esteem Workbook
Glenn Schiraldi
The Self-Esteem Workbook is based on the author's original new research, which has shown that self-esteem can be significantly improved through the use of self-help materials.
Now psychologist and health educator Glenn Schiraldi has shaped these tested resources into a comprehensive, self-directed program that guides readers through twenty essential skill-building activities, each focused on developing a crucial component of healthy self-esteem.
http://www.amazon.com/Self-Esteem-Workbook-Glenn-R-Schiraldi/dp/1572242523
Remember the surgeon only does surgery on our stomach we have to do the rest. I am over 8 years out and sometimes my “Fat Girl” (feelings of insecurities) still come out. There are many books out there that can help us build our Self-Esteem. And there is also counseling. Do the work you need to do to make yourself a better person inside and out! Learn to love you!!! You are worth it!!!
Hugs,
Ginger
The Self-Esteem Workbook
Glenn Schiraldi
The Self-Esteem Workbook is based on the author's original new research, which has shown that self-esteem can be significantly improved through the use of self-help materials.
Now psychologist and health educator Glenn Schiraldi has shaped these tested resources into a comprehensive, self-directed program that guides readers through twenty essential skill-building activities, each focused on developing a crucial component of healthy self-esteem.
http://www.amazon.com/Self-Esteem-Workbook-Glenn-R-Schiraldi/dp/1572242523
Friday, July 31, 2009
Some of my favorite snacks and things I use for successful weight loss and maintaining the weight loss
It is not by chance that a person can lose weight after weight loss surgery and keep it off. It is a lifestyle change, not a diet that is temporary, but healthy changes that they can live with for a life time. I think some of the changes I have made makes it possible for me to keep the weight off and not feel deprived or have those horrible cravings that I had before Weight Loss Surgery.
Sometimes we need a quick snack and have not planned for it. I have compiled a few of the things I would eat if I were going to have a snack. I hope these tips and ideas can help you.
There are a lot of healthy alternatives when it comes to snacking Be open minded and creative And if you have any tips for me, please pass them on. I would love to hear about them!
Remember that all food even healthy food has calories and they add up. Whatever you put in your mouth you have to work off! These are just some ideas for you, and you can be creative with what you like and switch them up a little.
I wish you much success on your weight loss journey!
Ginger
After a workout I will sometimes eat a Balance Carb Well Bar, I like the Caramel ‘n Chocolate, tastes great and has 14 grams of protein. But remember there are calories!
Also comes in Chocolate Peanut Butter and Chocolate Fudge. Caramel ‘n Chocolate is my favorite.
Balance Carb Well Bar Overview
Balance Carb Well Bars aren't just for dieters or bodybuilders or athletes or seniors, they're for everyone. With a balanced nutritional profile and great taste, about the only thing Carb Well bars don't have is a lot of carbs. Balance uses natural, plant-derived polyols to sweeten Carb Well Bars, so their great taste comes without sugar's high metabolic price tag. Add a box to your cart and you'll have a healthy low carb snack on hand anytime and anyplace you need one.
Balance Carb Well Bar Description from BALANCE BAR
A great nutrition energy bar from Balance for those managing their carbohydrate intake! New BALANCE CarbWell bars are delicious triple layer nutrition energy bars with only 2g of net carbs. BALANCE CarbWell comes in two delicious flavors - Chocolate Fudge and Chocolate Peanut Butter. BALANCE CarbWell bars are based on the Balance Bar principle of helping individuals like you get the credible nutrition needed for healthy living.
** Percent Daily Value is based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.† Daily Value not established.
Chocolate ‘n Caramel/Supplement Facts
Serving Size:1 barServings per Container: 15
Ingredient
Amount
% Daily Value**
Calories
200
Calories From Fat
70
Total Fat
8g
Saturated Fat
4g
Trans Fat
0g
Cholesterol
<5mg href="http://www.iateapie.net/reviews/archives/2006/07/trader_joes_dry.php">Trader Joes Dry Roasted Edamame
By: Tanya Taylor, PhD Jul 10, 2006
On a recent trip to Trader Joe's, I came across their "Dry Roasted Lightly Salted Edamame" snack. Edamame is the same thing as soybeans, and in this case, the beans have been removed from the pod and dry roasted, in a manner similar to peanuts. What really drew me in was the fact that something - anything - in Trader Joe's only costs 99 cents (even chewing gum is $1.29). The lightly salted edamame was crunchy, crispy, and I really, really liked it. The taste was a teeny tiny bit different from the more popular nuts such as peanuts, but I honestly slightly preferred the lighter tasting edamame to peanuts - AND I certainly preferred the price. I also must confess that I am a bit of a salt addict. I tend to dislike 'lightly salted' foods, BUT the light salt goes very well with the light taste and feel of the edamame.
The table below compares the nutrition facts of one serving of Trader Joes Lightly Salted Dry Roasted Edamame (30 grams) vs. Planters Lightly Salted Dry Roasted Peanuts (28 grams).
Edamame
Calories
140
Total Fat (% daily value)
9
Sat Fat (g)
1
Sodium (mg)
5
Fiber (g)
4
Protein (g)
14
Iron (%)
20
One serving is a 1/4 cup or 30 grams (which is actually measured out in the picture). I thought that 1/4 cup wasn't much at all, but when I actually measured it out, there was certainly enough for a snack. It is also an excellent source of fiber and protein! This particular brand was purchased at Trader Joes (a 5.5 ounce bag), but I'm sure there are other brands available in stores. The Seapoint Farms brand is available online [link] - this is a non genetically modified brand. There is no information on the Trader Joes Edamame regarding whether it uses genetically modified soybeans (81% of the World's soybeans are GM).
Rating Taste: Nutrition: Price:
Overall:
At many restaurants you can order Edamame Beans as an appetizer you can also get it at the grocery and prepare it at home. Please refer to nutritional facts below and also understand the nutritional facts can be more or less depending on the preparation.
Edamame Beans Appetizer
steamed and tossed with salt
In the mood for crunch, Blue Diamond Almonds has some great new flavors. But always remember to take into count the sodium content and calories. Sometimes you can really get carried away with eating nuts and eat more than you thought you would. I put them in small snack size bags so I can keep track of how many I eat.
Blue Diamond Almonds
BOLD Jalapeno Smokehouse 1.5 oz
BOLD Salt N Vinegar 1.5 oz
BOLD Jalapeno Smokehouse 6 oz
BOLD Wasabi & Soy Sauce 1.5 oz
BOLD Lime 'n Chili 1.5 oz
BOLD Wasabi & Soy Sauce 6 oz
BOLD Lime 'n Chili 6 oz
BONUS PACK, Wasabi, 19.2 oz pouch
BOLD Maui Onion & Garlic 1.5oz
VALUE LINE, Lime & Chili, 1-lb, pouch
BOLD Maui Onion & Garlic 6 oz
VALUE LINE, Wasabi & Soy Sauce, 1-lb, pouch
BOLD Salt & Vinegar, 6 oz Can
BOLD Salt & black Pepper, 6 oz Can
THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE!!!
****Healthy Snack that I really like. Don’t say yuk until you try it!*****
2 thin slices of provolone cheese top with 1 slice Sarah Lee Honey Roasted turkey dollop with1 teaspoon Jiff reduced fat peanut butter and roll up…..really yummy, all protein, sweet and salty!
You don’t have to use Salt to season your food, try Mrs. Dash, it comes in all kinds of Salt-Free Seasoning Blends and Marinades।
Mrs. Dash® Salt-Free Seasoning Blends
Try all 15 flavors of Mrs. Dash® Salt-Free Seasoning Blends and add delicious taste to everything in your kitchen from seafood to salads, and always with no MSG. Each Mrs. Dash® Seasoning Blend is an all-natural blend of 14 natural herbs and spices and adds unique flavor to every dish.
Spice things up in your kitchen with the bold, exciting flavors of two new varieties - Mrs. Dash® Caribbean Citrus Seasoning Blend and Mrs. Dash® Citrus Lime Seasoning Blend
Add the robust flavors of the Caribbean and Mexico to your menus, and always salt-free and no MSG.
caribbean citrus, fiesta lime, garlic herb, extra spicy
Italian medley, lemon pepper, original, table blend
onion & herb, southwest chipotle, tomato basil garlic
Grilling Blends
chicken, mesquite, hamburger, steak
Mrs. Dash® Marinades
Mrs. Dash® Marinades presents an exciting new look, with the same great taste. As always, Mrs. Dash® Marinades are salt-free and have no MSG! And like all seasonings from Mrs. Dash, our Marinades are made with an all natural blend of 14 herbs and spices and a touch of real fruit essence. From bold, beefy steak marinades to our zesty chicken marinades, each of our six varieties add just the right flavor to any dish at a moment's notice. Just pour it on, and in ten minutes bake, broil or grill to create a healthy, tender and delicious meal. They add just the right flavor to chicken, beef, pork, fish or vegetables at any moment's notice.
Marinades
mesquite grille, garlic lime, zesty garlic herb
lemon herb peppercorn, spicy teriyaki, southwestern chipotle
Are you in the mood for something sweet? Check out Dannon Yogurts new flavors। They now come in Light & Fit Carb & Sugar control.
****I like to have fresh Blueberries, Dannon Vanilla Yogurt with a sprinkle of low fat Granola (without raisins). It is really yummy! Makes a great breakfast or snack!******
Bear Naked Granola
Our 100% Pure & Natural Granola
Made with REAL whole grains
All-Natural, Bearly Processed and Utterly Naked Ingredients... that you can actually pronounce!
NO Artificial Flavors, NO Cholesterol, NO Hydrogenated Oils, NO High Fructose Corn Syrup, NO Preservatives, Og Trans Fat
Vegetarian friendly
Kosher certified
http://bearnaked.com/estore/
Dannon Light & Fit Carb & Sugar Control
CupsThe rich and creamy 3-carb Cup (4 oz.) has 45* calories and 85% less sugar than regular lowfat yogurt.
SmoothiesThe delicious 4-carb, on-the-go Smoothie(7 fl. oz.) has 60 calories and 90% less sugar than other dairy-based smoothies.
Both are a good source of calcium and protein, and made with active yogurt cultures.
* Strawberry contains 50 calories per 4 oz.
Single Serve 6oz CupsEach delicious Cup has 0% fat and 80 calories per 6 oz। serving. Available in 17 delicious flavors!
Dannon Light & Fit
"60 Calorie Packs" Multi-packsEach 4 oz. Cup in our "60 Calorie Packs" multi-packs has 0% fat and 60 calories per 4 oz. serving. Available in 12-pack and NEW 6-pack flavor combinations.
QuartsOur delicious Vanilla and Strawberry flavors are also available in 32 oz. quarts. Great for making dips, smoothies and desserts.
South Beach Diet High Protein Cereal Bars
All have 10 grams protein and 3 grams fiber. Sugar varies between 6 and 7 grams.
The High Protein Cereal Bars come in Cinnamon Raisin, Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Maple Nut and Cranberry Almond.
South Beach Diet carries several bars, but the High Protein Cereal Bars are the only ones with 10 grams protein. So if you want to go this route try to get the most bang for your buck with the extra protein.
****If I am on the run for breakfast I will eat a High Protein Cereal Bar with a banana. I like the Cinnamon Raisin tastes like a cinnamon roll.***
Crystal Light vs Walmart Great Value Drink Mix Stick Packs
When I compared the 2 I decided I like Walmart Great Value Drink Mix better। It had more flavor in the same size Stick Packs (I put it in 32 oz of water). It cost less than Crystal Light and it has no calories. Crystal Light had 5 calories. Remember this is only my personal preference.
Try dried fruits (with no sugar added). I love dried blueberries; they taste like candy to me!
Check out different stores that carry a variety of healthy foods.
You can get things you never thought of and try new recipes. I love to stop people in the Asian, Hispanic or Middle Eastern grocery stores and pick their brain for ideas…they are always so nice and willing to help!
· Local Farmer’s Market
· Trader Joes
· Harry’s Farmer’s Market/Whole Foods Market
· Dekalb Farmers Market http://www.dekalbfarmersmarket.com/
· Asian Grocery Stores
· Hispanic Grocery Stores
· Middle Eastern Grocery Stores
Not a food but….this maybe a useful tip for you!
I LOVE THESE SHOES….I have a bad right knee and the rocking motion make my knee not hurt when I walk and I will walk 3 – 5 miles at a time for exercise. It’s kind of feels like walking in sand until you get used to them. I truly feel like they are making my legs look better and more tone!
Curves® for Women Toning Sandal
Sole encourages a rocking motion that challenges muscles to work harder with every step. You can order on line from Avon: http://www.avon.com/1/1/12146-curves-women-toning-sandal.html or http://mrafeedie.avonrepresentative.com/ or from your Avon representative.
Instead of going to the tanning bed or lying in the sun try this:
Vaseline Intensive Care Healthy Body Glow (it is a self tanner) I have tried several brands but this one tans me darker and more golden.
Sometimes we need a quick snack and have not planned for it. I have compiled a few of the things I would eat if I were going to have a snack. I hope these tips and ideas can help you.
There are a lot of healthy alternatives when it comes to snacking Be open minded and creative And if you have any tips for me, please pass them on. I would love to hear about them!
Remember that all food even healthy food has calories and they add up. Whatever you put in your mouth you have to work off! These are just some ideas for you, and you can be creative with what you like and switch them up a little.
I wish you much success on your weight loss journey!
Ginger
After a workout I will sometimes eat a Balance Carb Well Bar, I like the Caramel ‘n Chocolate, tastes great and has 14 grams of protein. But remember there are calories!
Also comes in Chocolate Peanut Butter and Chocolate Fudge. Caramel ‘n Chocolate is my favorite.
Balance Carb Well Bar Overview
Balance Carb Well Bars aren't just for dieters or bodybuilders or athletes or seniors, they're for everyone. With a balanced nutritional profile and great taste, about the only thing Carb Well bars don't have is a lot of carbs. Balance uses natural, plant-derived polyols to sweeten Carb Well Bars, so their great taste comes without sugar's high metabolic price tag. Add a box to your cart and you'll have a healthy low carb snack on hand anytime and anyplace you need one.
Balance Carb Well Bar Description from BALANCE BAR
A great nutrition energy bar from Balance for those managing their carbohydrate intake! New BALANCE CarbWell bars are delicious triple layer nutrition energy bars with only 2g of net carbs. BALANCE CarbWell comes in two delicious flavors - Chocolate Fudge and Chocolate Peanut Butter. BALANCE CarbWell bars are based on the Balance Bar principle of helping individuals like you get the credible nutrition needed for healthy living.
** Percent Daily Value is based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.† Daily Value not established.
Chocolate ‘n Caramel/Supplement Facts
Serving Size:1 barServings per Container: 15
Ingredient
Amount
% Daily Value**
Calories
200
Calories From Fat
70
Total Fat
8g
Saturated Fat
4g
Trans Fat
0g
Cholesterol
<5mg href="http://www.iateapie.net/reviews/archives/2006/07/trader_joes_dry.php">Trader Joes Dry Roasted Edamame
By: Tanya Taylor, PhD Jul 10, 2006
On a recent trip to Trader Joe's, I came across their "Dry Roasted Lightly Salted Edamame" snack. Edamame is the same thing as soybeans, and in this case, the beans have been removed from the pod and dry roasted, in a manner similar to peanuts. What really drew me in was the fact that something - anything - in Trader Joe's only costs 99 cents (even chewing gum is $1.29). The lightly salted edamame was crunchy, crispy, and I really, really liked it. The taste was a teeny tiny bit different from the more popular nuts such as peanuts, but I honestly slightly preferred the lighter tasting edamame to peanuts - AND I certainly preferred the price. I also must confess that I am a bit of a salt addict. I tend to dislike 'lightly salted' foods, BUT the light salt goes very well with the light taste and feel of the edamame.
The table below compares the nutrition facts of one serving of Trader Joes Lightly Salted Dry Roasted Edamame (30 grams) vs. Planters Lightly Salted Dry Roasted Peanuts (28 grams).
Edamame
Calories
140
Total Fat (% daily value)
9
Sat Fat (g)
1
Sodium (mg)
5
Fiber (g)
4
Protein (g)
14
Iron (%)
20
One serving is a 1/4 cup or 30 grams (which is actually measured out in the picture). I thought that 1/4 cup wasn't much at all, but when I actually measured it out, there was certainly enough for a snack. It is also an excellent source of fiber and protein! This particular brand was purchased at Trader Joes (a 5.5 ounce bag), but I'm sure there are other brands available in stores. The Seapoint Farms brand is available online [link] - this is a non genetically modified brand. There is no information on the Trader Joes Edamame regarding whether it uses genetically modified soybeans (81% of the World's soybeans are GM).
Rating Taste: Nutrition: Price:
Overall:
At many restaurants you can order Edamame Beans as an appetizer you can also get it at the grocery and prepare it at home. Please refer to nutritional facts below and also understand the nutritional facts can be more or less depending on the preparation.
Edamame Beans Appetizer
steamed and tossed with salt
In the mood for crunch, Blue Diamond Almonds has some great new flavors. But always remember to take into count the sodium content and calories. Sometimes you can really get carried away with eating nuts and eat more than you thought you would. I put them in small snack size bags so I can keep track of how many I eat.
Blue Diamond Almonds
BOLD Jalapeno Smokehouse 1.5 oz
BOLD Salt N Vinegar 1.5 oz
BOLD Jalapeno Smokehouse 6 oz
BOLD Wasabi & Soy Sauce 1.5 oz
BOLD Lime 'n Chili 1.5 oz
BOLD Wasabi & Soy Sauce 6 oz
BOLD Lime 'n Chili 6 oz
BONUS PACK, Wasabi, 19.2 oz pouch
BOLD Maui Onion & Garlic 1.5oz
VALUE LINE, Lime & Chili, 1-lb, pouch
BOLD Maui Onion & Garlic 6 oz
VALUE LINE, Wasabi & Soy Sauce, 1-lb, pouch
BOLD Salt & Vinegar, 6 oz Can
BOLD Salt & black Pepper, 6 oz Can
THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE!!!
****Healthy Snack that I really like. Don’t say yuk until you try it!*****
2 thin slices of provolone cheese top with 1 slice Sarah Lee Honey Roasted turkey dollop with1 teaspoon Jiff reduced fat peanut butter and roll up…..really yummy, all protein, sweet and salty!
You don’t have to use Salt to season your food, try Mrs. Dash, it comes in all kinds of Salt-Free Seasoning Blends and Marinades।
Mrs. Dash® Salt-Free Seasoning Blends
Try all 15 flavors of Mrs. Dash® Salt-Free Seasoning Blends and add delicious taste to everything in your kitchen from seafood to salads, and always with no MSG. Each Mrs. Dash® Seasoning Blend is an all-natural blend of 14 natural herbs and spices and adds unique flavor to every dish.
Spice things up in your kitchen with the bold, exciting flavors of two new varieties - Mrs. Dash® Caribbean Citrus Seasoning Blend and Mrs. Dash® Citrus Lime Seasoning Blend
Add the robust flavors of the Caribbean and Mexico to your menus, and always salt-free and no MSG.
caribbean citrus, fiesta lime, garlic herb, extra spicy
Italian medley, lemon pepper, original, table blend
onion & herb, southwest chipotle, tomato basil garlic
Grilling Blends
chicken, mesquite, hamburger, steak
Mrs. Dash® Marinades
Mrs. Dash® Marinades presents an exciting new look, with the same great taste. As always, Mrs. Dash® Marinades are salt-free and have no MSG! And like all seasonings from Mrs. Dash, our Marinades are made with an all natural blend of 14 herbs and spices and a touch of real fruit essence. From bold, beefy steak marinades to our zesty chicken marinades, each of our six varieties add just the right flavor to any dish at a moment's notice. Just pour it on, and in ten minutes bake, broil or grill to create a healthy, tender and delicious meal. They add just the right flavor to chicken, beef, pork, fish or vegetables at any moment's notice.
Marinades
mesquite grille, garlic lime, zesty garlic herb
lemon herb peppercorn, spicy teriyaki, southwestern chipotle
Are you in the mood for something sweet? Check out Dannon Yogurts new flavors। They now come in Light & Fit Carb & Sugar control.
****I like to have fresh Blueberries, Dannon Vanilla Yogurt with a sprinkle of low fat Granola (without raisins). It is really yummy! Makes a great breakfast or snack!******
Bear Naked Granola
Our 100% Pure & Natural Granola
Made with REAL whole grains
All-Natural, Bearly Processed and Utterly Naked Ingredients... that you can actually pronounce!
NO Artificial Flavors, NO Cholesterol, NO Hydrogenated Oils, NO High Fructose Corn Syrup, NO Preservatives, Og Trans Fat
Vegetarian friendly
Kosher certified
http://bearnaked.com/estore/
Dannon Light & Fit Carb & Sugar Control
CupsThe rich and creamy 3-carb Cup (4 oz.) has 45* calories and 85% less sugar than regular lowfat yogurt.
SmoothiesThe delicious 4-carb, on-the-go Smoothie(7 fl. oz.) has 60 calories and 90% less sugar than other dairy-based smoothies.
Both are a good source of calcium and protein, and made with active yogurt cultures.
* Strawberry contains 50 calories per 4 oz.
Single Serve 6oz CupsEach delicious Cup has 0% fat and 80 calories per 6 oz। serving. Available in 17 delicious flavors!
Dannon Light & Fit
"60 Calorie Packs" Multi-packsEach 4 oz. Cup in our "60 Calorie Packs" multi-packs has 0% fat and 60 calories per 4 oz. serving. Available in 12-pack and NEW 6-pack flavor combinations.
QuartsOur delicious Vanilla and Strawberry flavors are also available in 32 oz. quarts. Great for making dips, smoothies and desserts.
South Beach Diet High Protein Cereal Bars
All have 10 grams protein and 3 grams fiber. Sugar varies between 6 and 7 grams.
The High Protein Cereal Bars come in Cinnamon Raisin, Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Maple Nut and Cranberry Almond.
South Beach Diet carries several bars, but the High Protein Cereal Bars are the only ones with 10 grams protein. So if you want to go this route try to get the most bang for your buck with the extra protein.
****If I am on the run for breakfast I will eat a High Protein Cereal Bar with a banana. I like the Cinnamon Raisin tastes like a cinnamon roll.***
Crystal Light vs Walmart Great Value Drink Mix Stick Packs
When I compared the 2 I decided I like Walmart Great Value Drink Mix better। It had more flavor in the same size Stick Packs (I put it in 32 oz of water). It cost less than Crystal Light and it has no calories. Crystal Light had 5 calories. Remember this is only my personal preference.
Try dried fruits (with no sugar added). I love dried blueberries; they taste like candy to me!
Check out different stores that carry a variety of healthy foods.
You can get things you never thought of and try new recipes. I love to stop people in the Asian, Hispanic or Middle Eastern grocery stores and pick their brain for ideas…they are always so nice and willing to help!
· Local Farmer’s Market
· Trader Joes
· Harry’s Farmer’s Market/Whole Foods Market
· Dekalb Farmers Market http://www.dekalbfarmersmarket.com/
· Asian Grocery Stores
· Hispanic Grocery Stores
· Middle Eastern Grocery Stores
Not a food but….this maybe a useful tip for you!
I LOVE THESE SHOES….I have a bad right knee and the rocking motion make my knee not hurt when I walk and I will walk 3 – 5 miles at a time for exercise. It’s kind of feels like walking in sand until you get used to them. I truly feel like they are making my legs look better and more tone!
Curves® for Women Toning Sandal
Sole encourages a rocking motion that challenges muscles to work harder with every step. You can order on line from Avon: http://www.avon.com/1/1/12146-curves-women-toning-sandal.html or http://mrafeedie.avonrepresentative.com/ or from your Avon representative.
Instead of going to the tanning bed or lying in the sun try this:
Vaseline Intensive Care Healthy Body Glow (it is a self tanner) I have tried several brands but this one tans me darker and more golden.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Can Certain Foods 'Arouse' Your Brain?
This was on ABC Good Morning America and I thought it was really worth sharing! I used to feel this way about food and I am so glad I no longer have these feeling toward food......
Can Certain Foods 'Arouse' Your Brain?
Expert: Abnormal Brain Activity Linked to a 'Helpless' Overeating
By ANNA WILD
July 28, 2009 —
Wendy Wessler, who is divorced and lives on New York's Long Island, lost 150 pounds after gastric bypass surgery, but the weight is creeping back. She says she just can't understand why she can't say no to food.
"If I am upset or I am really stressed out, I just think I am going to get home to get a bag of chips," Wessler told "Good Morning America." "I just keep telling myself I should know better. I should be stronger, just as a person [says], 'You are intelligent, you shouldn't be doing this. This is not grown up behavior. This is child behavior."
Contrary to her opinion, Wessler's behavior is fairly common among adults, affecting an estimated 70 million Americans, according to former FDA commissioner Dr. David Kessler. Kessler too has struggled throughout his life with food compulsion.
In Kessler's new book, "The End of Overeating," he describes how the part of the brain the amygdale, which is the area of the brain that controls our desires, can affect overeating.
For most of people, when they see a tempting snack like a potato chip, it's the area of the brain will light up with activity and send feelings of anticipation and want. And once they start eating it shuts off. But for an overeater the amygdala remains activated while eating, creating that feeling of want, even after five, 10 or even 50 chips.
"We now know that the brains of millions of Americans are being excessively activated. Not everybody," Kessler said. "Let me give you [some] characteristics. Hard time resisting foods, a lack of feeling full, hard time stopping, a preoccupation, a thinking about foods between meals. And the foods that really arouse our brains are a combination of sugar, fat and salt, in other words, junk food."
Christine Zuccarelli overcame her struggle with food and became a dietitian, but she still feels the intense pull from some of her old favorite snacks.
"I call it food porn, because it excites me," she said. "It's something that gets me outside myself and I want more."
When overeater Mary Crean's favorite guilty pleasure, a Twix bar, is placed near her, she seems to lose concentration on a conversation as her mind floats to the chips.
"It calls to you," she laughed.
Similarly, Wessler said she becomes distracted when potato chips are placed in front of her.
"If there's something there that's edible, I cannot go about my business until I consume it," she said.
The Science Behind the Overeating Desire
According to Kessler, the food is actually causing a form of arousal.
"Intuitively, [Wessler] understood what we now know scientifically. Based on her past memories, past experiences, just looking at that label activated her brain circuitry. It causes arousal. It caused increased attention. It caused thoughts of wanting," he said.
Once the brain's attention is captured, for some people it's hard to let go, said Dana Small, a scientist at Yale University.
Small conducted an experiment which observed the brain activity of overeaters. She had them smell and then taste a chocolate milkshake, while recording brain activity through an FMRI.
Small noted there was an area of the brain that "should be shut off when you actually taste what you've been smelling."
"In people that are overweight or obese, the area's not being shut off. It's still so high," she said.
But there is something to the old saying "mind over body," Kessler said.
"One of the ways to cool down the power of that food is to look at food in a different way," he said. "We need food. Food has to be pleasurable. But I now look at huge plates of food, and I say, 'I don't really want that. That's not going to make me feel good.'"
It's a method that worked well for Greg Wells, 44. He lost 135 pounds in 14 months and said that now when it comes to food, he has the power.
"[The food] is like a Christmas ornament," Wells said. "Shiny and nice, but it's not edible."
Copyright © 2009 ABC News Internet Ventures
Can Certain Foods 'Arouse' Your Brain?
Expert: Abnormal Brain Activity Linked to a 'Helpless' Overeating
By ANNA WILD
July 28, 2009 —
Wendy Wessler, who is divorced and lives on New York's Long Island, lost 150 pounds after gastric bypass surgery, but the weight is creeping back. She says she just can't understand why she can't say no to food.
"If I am upset or I am really stressed out, I just think I am going to get home to get a bag of chips," Wessler told "Good Morning America." "I just keep telling myself I should know better. I should be stronger, just as a person [says], 'You are intelligent, you shouldn't be doing this. This is not grown up behavior. This is child behavior."
Contrary to her opinion, Wessler's behavior is fairly common among adults, affecting an estimated 70 million Americans, according to former FDA commissioner Dr. David Kessler. Kessler too has struggled throughout his life with food compulsion.
In Kessler's new book, "The End of Overeating," he describes how the part of the brain the amygdale, which is the area of the brain that controls our desires, can affect overeating.
For most of people, when they see a tempting snack like a potato chip, it's the area of the brain will light up with activity and send feelings of anticipation and want. And once they start eating it shuts off. But for an overeater the amygdala remains activated while eating, creating that feeling of want, even after five, 10 or even 50 chips.
"We now know that the brains of millions of Americans are being excessively activated. Not everybody," Kessler said. "Let me give you [some] characteristics. Hard time resisting foods, a lack of feeling full, hard time stopping, a preoccupation, a thinking about foods between meals. And the foods that really arouse our brains are a combination of sugar, fat and salt, in other words, junk food."
Christine Zuccarelli overcame her struggle with food and became a dietitian, but she still feels the intense pull from some of her old favorite snacks.
"I call it food porn, because it excites me," she said. "It's something that gets me outside myself and I want more."
When overeater Mary Crean's favorite guilty pleasure, a Twix bar, is placed near her, she seems to lose concentration on a conversation as her mind floats to the chips.
"It calls to you," she laughed.
Similarly, Wessler said she becomes distracted when potato chips are placed in front of her.
"If there's something there that's edible, I cannot go about my business until I consume it," she said.
The Science Behind the Overeating Desire
According to Kessler, the food is actually causing a form of arousal.
"Intuitively, [Wessler] understood what we now know scientifically. Based on her past memories, past experiences, just looking at that label activated her brain circuitry. It causes arousal. It caused increased attention. It caused thoughts of wanting," he said.
Once the brain's attention is captured, for some people it's hard to let go, said Dana Small, a scientist at Yale University.
Small conducted an experiment which observed the brain activity of overeaters. She had them smell and then taste a chocolate milkshake, while recording brain activity through an FMRI.
Small noted there was an area of the brain that "should be shut off when you actually taste what you've been smelling."
"In people that are overweight or obese, the area's not being shut off. It's still so high," she said.
But there is something to the old saying "mind over body," Kessler said.
"One of the ways to cool down the power of that food is to look at food in a different way," he said. "We need food. Food has to be pleasurable. But I now look at huge plates of food, and I say, 'I don't really want that. That's not going to make me feel good.'"
It's a method that worked well for Greg Wells, 44. He lost 135 pounds in 14 months and said that now when it comes to food, he has the power.
"[The food] is like a Christmas ornament," Wells said. "Shiny and nice, but it's not edible."
Copyright © 2009 ABC News Internet Ventures
TACO SALAD
This is a great salad to accompany any main dish!
Hope you like it!
Ginger
TACO SALAD
1 Head Lettuce
1 Bell Pepper (diced)
1 Onion (diced)
1 Can Ranch Beans
1 Small Bottle Light Catalina Dressing
12 oz Grated Cheddar Cheese
7oz Bag baked Doritos (Crushed in bag for topping)
Chop lettuce put in large bowl. Add one at a time in layers Bell Pepper, Onion, Ranch Beans. Sprinkle cheese on top.
Pour approximately ½ - ¾ of the bottle of Light Catalina dressing on.
Do not toss Salad until ready to eat. At that time toss and sprinkle on Crushed Baked Doritos.
*This salad can be made in advance, but remember do not toss and add chips until ready to eat. Doritos are optional.
Hope you like it!
Ginger
TACO SALAD
1 Head Lettuce
1 Bell Pepper (diced)
1 Onion (diced)
1 Can Ranch Beans
1 Small Bottle Light Catalina Dressing
12 oz Grated Cheddar Cheese
7oz Bag baked Doritos (Crushed in bag for topping)
Chop lettuce put in large bowl. Add one at a time in layers Bell Pepper, Onion, Ranch Beans. Sprinkle cheese on top.
Pour approximately ½ - ¾ of the bottle of Light Catalina dressing on.
Do not toss Salad until ready to eat. At that time toss and sprinkle on Crushed Baked Doritos.
*This salad can be made in advance, but remember do not toss and add chips until ready to eat. Doritos are optional.
Friday, July 24, 2009
I do and always will have a food addiction!
From my earliest memories I can remember being addictive to food. When I was a child it was all kinds of foods. My grandmother was a really good cook. I remember sneaking in the kitchen when she was frying chicken and taking a piece and running off and eating it.
People of average weight don’t believe this but a food addiction is one of the hardest addictions to overcome. There is food everywhere, it is legal and everyone has to eat. We celebrate with food, eat food when we are sad, glad, mad (emotional eating) and we show love with food and reward with food especially our children.
As an adult sugar was my drug of choice my trigger food. I WAS addicted to it. I would do anything to get it. I would sneak around and eat it. All my friends said, “How can you be over weight? You don’t eat that much”. The truth was in front of other people I didn’t. But the stories I could tell you…..On Valentine’s Day my husband would buy me the biggest heart of chocolate. I would eat it and then go back to the store and buy another one that looked exactly the same. Then I would eat it and do it again. One day a few weeks after Valentine’s Day my husband was putting something in the outside trash and found 3 empty boxes and asked “What is this?” I just shrugged my shoulders. So, many times before I picked my kids up from school I would eat a six pack of ice cream sandwiches or a dozen Krispy Kream Donuts and get rid of the evidence. It gave me such a RUSH!
Well after weight loss surgery I knew I had to do something about my addiction or I would be back where I started! Sugar to me is like Alcohol to and Alcoholic I CAN NOT TAKE A BITE OR IT WILL BE THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING I CAN NOT STOP! I do not eat bread, rice, pasta, potatoes or sugar. I have not tested my RNY to see if I can eat sugar without getting sick. I don’t want to know that I can eat it and not get sick. I tell myself….if you eat it…you will get sick. If I knew I could eat it and not get sick I might eat it every day and find myself in the same situation I was before. SO I DON’T GO THERE. In the beginning it was not easy, but it has been almost 8 ½ years and I do not crave it or even think about it. But it has been a long, long road to get where I am.
I have added some information from Obesity Action Coalition below and their website. Also, some website where you can go and take a quiz to see if you have a food addiction.
There is nothing to be ashamed of if you have a food addiction, but if you find you do. Please get help. When you first have WLS (RNY) you can only eat small amounts but as time goes on you can eat more. I want you to be successful, so learn your body. Learn your trigger foods…..YOU CAN DO THIS AND YOU CAN BE SUCCESSFUL!!!! Be fair to yourself and get the tools needed to be successful. The surgeons only do surgery on our stomach we have to do the work on our heads and if need get help.
Much Love,
Ginger
Food Addiction and the Weight-loss Surgery Patient
By Katie Jay, MSW
For people with food addiction, the decision to overeat is not a conscious one, at least not in the early days of your addiction. You do not wake up and think, “Rise and shine! Let’s get crackin’. Eat a box of donuts and lose some of that self esteem!”
No, it’s usually more like, “I'm going to be so good today…is that an OREO?”Food addiction is a daily struggle for many weight-loss surgery (WLS) patients. It may be a week, a month, a year after surgery; but for about 70 percent of those who undergo weight-loss surgery, it happens. Of course, having the smaller stomach and/or rerouted intestines that come with WLS can be a great tool to help control your eating, but if you had trouble with food before surgery, there is high risk of eating compulsively, overeating or even just obsessing about food after surgery.
What exactly is food addiction?
Addiction is a loaded word that unfortunately holds a negative connotation for many people. That is why I prefer the term eating disorder, but even that term is viewed negatively by some.
The truth is, though, that food addiction is a complex problem for which there is no one cause and no simple solution. No matter what you call it, food addiction or an eating disorder, the basic definition is the same: an unhealthy relationship with food.
Sure, there are more clinical definitions, but it all boils down to one’s relationship with food – how you think about it, how you use it, why you use it and what your behavior with food does to you (obesity, shame, preoccupation, illness, depression, etc.).
In fact, shame and self loathing are such major factors in obesity and food addiction that I feel compelled to remind you that a food addiction is not a moral issue. It is not an affliction of weak-willed, lazy people. It is something that occurs in people of all ages, income levels, races and sexes. It has a strong genetic component, a relationship to brain chemistry and a cultural component (can you say, “Supersize me?”).
You do not set out to be addicted to food, or to be obese. Food addictions can develop over time, and are not always obvious in the early stages.
Food Addiction is an Unhealthy Relationship with Food
(to read all the information on Katie Jay, MSW article go to Obesity Action Coalition website)
http://www.obesityaction.org/magazine/oacnews6/healthqanda.php
Here are some other websites that have quizzes for you to take to see if you have a food addition.
http://www.addicted.com/addiction-resources/self-tests/food-addiction-quiz
http://www.foodaddicts.org/quiz.html
http://www.lifescript.com/Quizzes/Food_and_Diet/Are_You_Addicted_to_Food.aspx
People of average weight don’t believe this but a food addiction is one of the hardest addictions to overcome. There is food everywhere, it is legal and everyone has to eat. We celebrate with food, eat food when we are sad, glad, mad (emotional eating) and we show love with food and reward with food especially our children.
As an adult sugar was my drug of choice my trigger food. I WAS addicted to it. I would do anything to get it. I would sneak around and eat it. All my friends said, “How can you be over weight? You don’t eat that much”. The truth was in front of other people I didn’t. But the stories I could tell you…..On Valentine’s Day my husband would buy me the biggest heart of chocolate. I would eat it and then go back to the store and buy another one that looked exactly the same. Then I would eat it and do it again. One day a few weeks after Valentine’s Day my husband was putting something in the outside trash and found 3 empty boxes and asked “What is this?” I just shrugged my shoulders. So, many times before I picked my kids up from school I would eat a six pack of ice cream sandwiches or a dozen Krispy Kream Donuts and get rid of the evidence. It gave me such a RUSH!
Well after weight loss surgery I knew I had to do something about my addiction or I would be back where I started! Sugar to me is like Alcohol to and Alcoholic I CAN NOT TAKE A BITE OR IT WILL BE THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING I CAN NOT STOP! I do not eat bread, rice, pasta, potatoes or sugar. I have not tested my RNY to see if I can eat sugar without getting sick. I don’t want to know that I can eat it and not get sick. I tell myself….if you eat it…you will get sick. If I knew I could eat it and not get sick I might eat it every day and find myself in the same situation I was before. SO I DON’T GO THERE. In the beginning it was not easy, but it has been almost 8 ½ years and I do not crave it or even think about it. But it has been a long, long road to get where I am.
I have added some information from Obesity Action Coalition below and their website. Also, some website where you can go and take a quiz to see if you have a food addiction.
There is nothing to be ashamed of if you have a food addiction, but if you find you do. Please get help. When you first have WLS (RNY) you can only eat small amounts but as time goes on you can eat more. I want you to be successful, so learn your body. Learn your trigger foods…..YOU CAN DO THIS AND YOU CAN BE SUCCESSFUL!!!! Be fair to yourself and get the tools needed to be successful. The surgeons only do surgery on our stomach we have to do the work on our heads and if need get help.
Much Love,
Ginger
Food Addiction and the Weight-loss Surgery Patient
By Katie Jay, MSW
For people with food addiction, the decision to overeat is not a conscious one, at least not in the early days of your addiction. You do not wake up and think, “Rise and shine! Let’s get crackin’. Eat a box of donuts and lose some of that self esteem!”
No, it’s usually more like, “I'm going to be so good today…is that an OREO?”Food addiction is a daily struggle for many weight-loss surgery (WLS) patients. It may be a week, a month, a year after surgery; but for about 70 percent of those who undergo weight-loss surgery, it happens. Of course, having the smaller stomach and/or rerouted intestines that come with WLS can be a great tool to help control your eating, but if you had trouble with food before surgery, there is high risk of eating compulsively, overeating or even just obsessing about food after surgery.
What exactly is food addiction?
Addiction is a loaded word that unfortunately holds a negative connotation for many people. That is why I prefer the term eating disorder, but even that term is viewed negatively by some.
The truth is, though, that food addiction is a complex problem for which there is no one cause and no simple solution. No matter what you call it, food addiction or an eating disorder, the basic definition is the same: an unhealthy relationship with food.
Sure, there are more clinical definitions, but it all boils down to one’s relationship with food – how you think about it, how you use it, why you use it and what your behavior with food does to you (obesity, shame, preoccupation, illness, depression, etc.).
In fact, shame and self loathing are such major factors in obesity and food addiction that I feel compelled to remind you that a food addiction is not a moral issue. It is not an affliction of weak-willed, lazy people. It is something that occurs in people of all ages, income levels, races and sexes. It has a strong genetic component, a relationship to brain chemistry and a cultural component (can you say, “Supersize me?”).
You do not set out to be addicted to food, or to be obese. Food addictions can develop over time, and are not always obvious in the early stages.
Food Addiction is an Unhealthy Relationship with Food
(to read all the information on Katie Jay, MSW article go to Obesity Action Coalition website)
http://www.obesityaction.org/magazine/oacnews6/healthqanda.php
Here are some other websites that have quizzes for you to take to see if you have a food addition.
http://www.addicted.com/addiction-resources/self-tests/food-addiction-quiz
http://www.foodaddicts.org/quiz.html
http://www.lifescript.com/Quizzes/Food_and_Diet/Are_You_Addicted_to_Food.aspx
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