LAWLS Bookstore

Saturday, December 31, 2011

Free Shipping Code: 5DPT2012 ends Today

FREE SHIPPING* OFFER!!!
Code: 5DPT2012 - Save $4.95

Are you ready to get back to the basics of weight loss surgery and make 2012 your healthiest year ever?
We are ready to help you set achievable goals, conquer destructive habits, get on track and achieve your
greatest weight-management potential.



We are excited to be here with you!

To get you started the LivingAfterWLS General Store is pleased to offer FREE Priority Mail shipping on the products you need to support your 5 Day Pouch Test and take you to Day 6 and Beyond! A savings of $4.95! Shop the 5 Day Pouch Test Build-a-Bundle and enter code: 5DPT2012 at checkout to receive FREE shipping*! With our efficient order fulfillment department and the USPS Priority Mail you can be on your way in a matter of days! Don't hesitate - Offer ends when the ball drops
December 31, 2011.  Shop Now


5DPT Build a Bundle

Code: 5DPT2012 - Save $4.95 At Checkout!

FreeShipping*Free Shipping offer applies to orders shipping to US Postal verified addresses including APO's. Offer may not be combined with other offers. Expires 12/31/2011. International Customers using this coupon will pay $15.00 flat rate shipping, a savings of $4.95 off our customary flat rate price of $19.95. Orders accepted through our secure online store: LivingAfterWLS General Store. Orders placed through the mail must be postmarked no later than Jan 2, 2012. Use this form and indicate code 5DPT2012 to deduct $4.95 from order total.

5 Day Pouch Test: Build Storm of Enthusiasm

Happy New Year Neighbors!!

Snow Crystals by Kaye BaileyDid you know January is the most popular month for people to do the 5 Day Pouch Test?  Of course it is! We all want a clean start for a new year and I'm on board with that too. Are you resolved to make 2012 your best year of weight management with bariatric surgery? You are not alone!

In this 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin I offer  effective strategies to make the 5DPT work for you. Nobody wants you to succeed at this more than I do and I believe in you. Together let's make this our best effort ever with the 5 Day Pouch Test and then move forward to Day 6! We are in this together and we are a powerful force of strong will and determination. Thanks for joining me! When we put our strength together anything is possible.


Happy 2012! Let's Start it Right!
You Can Do This!
Kaye

PS - Please see this notice about our Neighborhood Refurbishing project!

For informative and inspiring reading please visit
our  5 Day Pouch Test Articles Collection

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Well-Seasoned High Protein Quick Dishes

From the Archives
Cooking with Kaye: January 6, 2008


If you've been reading the Recipe of the Week for a while you know I'm a big advocate of flavor, fresh herbs, spices and ingredients. But, like you, I also lead a hectic life and want to eat delicious healthy home-cooked foods without spending hours in the kitchen cooking and cleaning. Today's recipes take one pan, few ingredients and less than 20 minutes to prepare. And they deliver a flavor-bang using ready-made jarred sauces availalble at most supermarkets! Consider each recipe a template for you to personalize with the ingredients you love and have on hand.

The Asian inspired sauces I use are from Lee Kum Kee available at most supermarkets. Just a tablespoon or so takes the ordinary to the ultra-delicious we all crave when following a controlled eating plan. Keep a variety of them on hand to give that same 'ole same 'ole a brand new kick! Have fun!!!


Chili Garlic Shrimp and Vegetables

Serves 4
Start to finish: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
1 pound shrimp, large, tail on, shells removed
12 each asparagus spears
6 ounces canned baby corn, drained
1 large red bell pepper, sliced 1/3" thick
2 Tablespoons Lee Kum Kee Chili Garlic Sauce
1 Tablespoon oyster sauce
2 Tablespoons peanut oil
1/4 cup cashews, dry-roasted, coarsely chopped

Directions:
Prepare vegetables: clean and trim asparagus; drain and measure baby corn; clean and slice red bell pepper. Set aside.

In a small bowl combine chili garlic sauce and oyster sauce. Set aside.

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok on high heat. Add vegetables and cook 1-2 minutes until crisp-tender. Add shrimp and sauce mixture and continue to cook over high heat until shrimp are cooked through.

Divide among 4 serving plates and garnish with chopped roasted cashews.

Serves 4. Per serving: 256 calories, 26 grams protein, 13 grams fat (2 saturated), 9 grams carbohydrate and 5 grams dietary fiber. 213mg sodium. Rich in Vitamins C, A and B.

Serving Ideas: If desired serve with soy noodles (found in the produce section). After removing shrimp and vegetables from skillet or wok add 1 Tablespoon of peanut oil and cook noodles 1-2 minutes until heated through. Additional chili garlic sauce and oyster sauce may be added to noodles as they cook.


Stir-Fried Chicken
with Black Bean Garlic Sauce

Serves 4
Start to finish: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
2 cups broccoli florets
3 Tablespoons water
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 Tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 pound chicken breast without skin, cut into pieces
2 Tablespoons black bean garlic sauce
2 Tablespoons peanut oil

Directions:
In a microwave safe boil place broccoli florets and 3 Tablespoons of water. Cook on high 3-4 minutes until crisp tender. Set aside.

In a large bowl mix marinade: sesame oil, cornstarch, oyster sauce and sugar. Blend well. Add chicken and toss to coat. Set aside.

Over high heat in a large skillet or wok cook the black bean garlic sauce and peanut oil. When heated add chicken pieces and marinade and stir fry until cooked. Add broccoli and cooking water and stir well until heated well.

Serves 4. Per serving: 200 calories, 23 grams protein, 10 grams fat (2 saturated), 8 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram dietary fiber. Rich in Vitamin C and Niacin.

Notes: This recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of sugar which will help the chicken to brown nicely. It is a very small amount and sugar substitutes are not recommended.

Serving Ideas: If broccoli does not set well with you substitute snow peas, green onions, carrots or anything fresh and appealing. You may also use dark meat chicken if you prefer or other protein including shellfish, pork, beef or tofu. Use this recipe as a template for your culinary creativity.




More Recipes: LivingAfterWLS Kitchen

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Free Gift & $4 Coupon - New Years Sale

Greetings!

LivingAfterWLS is pleased to serve your weight loss surgery needs with quality publications, healthy protein supplements, delicious soups and our new line of beautiful hair products. Our products make terrific gifts for people you care about who are managing their obesity with weight loss surgery. Share the gift of health. Or treat yourself to the gift of health and commitment as you pursue your best living after weight loss surgery. Shop now! We quickly ship your order including a free sample of our high protein Safely Slim meal replacement shake - our gift to you. In addtion, at checkout save $4 off your $29 order with coupon code: MERRY2011.

Best Wishes & Happy New Year, Happy New You!



General Store

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Extended--Free-Gift-plus--4-Savings-Coupon--Start-2012-Strong.html?soid=1101189349792&aid=vGPyxkLAzjQ

10 Health Tips You Can Stick With in the New Year



By Val Silver

Do you make New Year's Resolutions with the best of intentions only to fizzle out or not even start to deliver on them? Here are ten health tips that are easy to implement and make part of your every day life.

Choose one or two tips to start and when that becomes habit, add another tip. Better to be consistent with one, then try too much to begin with and end up giving up on all of them. Regularly practicing even one of these tips will have a cumulative effect and help you be healthier in the long-term.

1- Include 25-35 grams of fiber in your diet daily. Fiber helps you feel full longer, aids elimination and actually removes about 10 calories per gram consumed. Good sources of fiber are whole grains, fruits, vegetables and food bars or beverages with added fiber.

2- Drink plenty of fresh water. Refillable water bottles with a built in filter can be filled at any faucet and have the added benefit of reducing the expense and waste generated by pre-filled water bottles. Aim for several glasses a day, especially if you are increasing fiber.

3- Move your body every day. If you aren't into exercise equipment or regimens, build opportunities to lift, bend and walk often throughout the day.

4- Take a few deep belly breaths. Do this outside or by an open window if you can. Your mind and body will appreciate the oxygen boost and instant stress reduction.

5- Air out your house or apartment at least once a week. Indoor pollution can be several times greater than outdoor pollution, especially when your home has been closed up.

6- Practice micro-meditations throughout the day. Snatching a few moments to focus on your breath or an inspirational quote can help you center and feel renewed.

7- Practice gratitude. Give thanks every day for the big and little things in your life even if you might not classify some of them as "good". Offering thanks for the mundane, and even some annoying things that happen can instantly shift your perspective and relieve stress.

8- Build face-to-face relationships. Social interaction and a sense of community provide a support system that benefits our health on all levels. Turn off the computer and TV and spend "live time" with friends and family.

9- Learn something new. Learning something of interest keeps your brain sharp and lifts your mood. So does playing games like Soduko or Scrabble.

10- Combine some of the above tips for even more health benefits. For example, if you take dance lessons, you are moving your body, building relationships and learning something new!

And now I'd like to invite you to get your Free Instant Access to the Member Learning Center where you will find articles, videos and information on holistic health and energy healing when you visit http://www.tapinfinity.com.

Article Source: Ezine Articles Expert Val Silver

Monday, December 26, 2011

5 Day Pouch Test - Start 2012 on the Right Track!

You survived the holidays and now you are ready to get focused and get on track with your health and weight management with weight loss surgery. The 5 Day Pouch Test is a quick proven method to help break bad habits we may have picked up during the feasting season. Reset your metabolism, end a cycle of snacking on processed carbs and get focused on the Four Rules that make weight loss surgery work. Learn more about the 5 Day Pouch Test and join the thousands who are back to basics with WLS!


5 Day Pouch Test Website

Need supplies? Build your own 5 Day Pouch Test Bargain Bundle and get back on track your way with the products you need to take positive action in making your WLS work for you. Shop and Save Now:

5 Day Pouch Test Build a Bundle

Select the products you need to get back on track with the 5 Day Pouch Test and do your very best on Day 6 and Beyond as you are LivingAfterWLS.
Build a Bundle
My 5 Day Pouch Test Bundle

LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood Outage



We have begun the actions in our scheduled Neighborhood refurbishing. During construction we will have the Neighborhood offline periodically throughout the day beginning December 26. Every attempt will be made to return the Neighborhood online as soon as possible. Please check in often and we look forward to serving you in 2012 with our new and improved community features.

Thank you,
Kaye, Scoop, Tech Team and IPB Support

Monday, December 26, 2011
Time now: 3pm EST


During the Neighborhood outage you may enjoy these areas of the LivingAfterWLS website:
Newsletter Archive
Library
Recipes
5 Day Pouch Test

LivingAfterWLS General Store
Save on our product sampler bundle!!  Learn More
Use coupon code at checkout: MERRY2011 and save $4 off $29 orders! Ends soon.

Monday, December 19, 2011

Citrus Guidelines from USDA - Good to Know

Good to Know - a few things about citrus to keep us healthy this giving season. From the United States Department of Agriculture:

Giving Citrus this Holiday Season? Four Things You Need to Know

If you are looking to give a thoughtful, healthy gift this holiday season, citrus is the way to go. But beware of infected citrus fruit and plants, especially if you plan to buy citrus online.
Before you give citrus, here are four things you should know:
  1. Be Aware of Quarantines. If you are thinking about giving citrus fruit, plants, or items made with citrus (such as floral arrangements, wreaths, potpourri or seasonings like kaffir lime leaves), be sure not to move them from quarantined states or territories. Not only are you risking spreading citrus diseases by transporting citrus outside of these areas, but it’s also against the law. Review the quarantine map.
  2. Check the Citrus Supplier. Be a savvy buyer. Gift citrus fruit sold in a regulated state must be packed in a certified packinghouse and accompanied by a USDA certificate. Commercial fruit packers, Internet shippers and roadside vendors within regulated states should be able to prove they are in compliance with the federal quarantine. Before you buy, ask the vendor if their product is in compliance. Review the quarantine map.
  3. Keep Homegrown Citrus at Home. Help reduce the spread of citrus diseases by not moving your homegrown citrus fruit or plants across state lines. Enjoy your fruit with friends and neighbors, but be sure to obtain a federal certificate if you’re thinking of transporting your citrus outside of your state. To inquire about transporting your citrus out of state, contact your USDA State Plant Health Director’s office.
  4. Avoid Fines and Penalties. Because citrus diseases have destroyed millions of acres of citrus around the world, they present an immediate and urgent threat to America. If you knowingly purchase citrus in violation of quarantine regulations and requirements, the penalties you could incur range from $1,100 to $60,000 per violation. If you suspect citrus is being moved improperly, report your concerns to USDA’s Smuggling Interdiction and Trade Compliance toll-free hotline at (800) 877-3835.
To learn more, follow the 12 Days of Citrus on facebook.com/saveourcitrus and twitter.com/saveourcitrus, or visit our website.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Free Gift with Every Purchase

Receive a free single-serving sample of Safely Slim with every purchase in the LivingAfterWLS Store - Now through December 20th. Our gift to you! 

LivingAfterWLS General Store

"What I love about these nutritional support drinks is not just the smooth texture and creamy flavor, but they add 10 grams of fiber to my diet per serving along with 20 grams high quality protein and 60% the RDV of calcium. Weight loss surgery patients will not find a more delicious nutritional powerhouse on the market." Kaye Bailey



Learn More

Neighborhood Refurbishing Scheduled Dec. 27-30

The LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood will be off-line beginning December 27 through December 30 while we refurbish our community in anticipation of exciting new changes coming in 2012. Beginning in 2012 you will enjoy enhanced features in our safe haven community including:
  • Member created Social Groups
  • Member created awards & titles celebrating one another
  • Increased privacy and security protecting your rights as a community member
  • Downloads manager to organize your WLS articles and recipes with integrated sharing options
  • Faster navigation and load times
  • User-managed social network integration (Link your Neighborhood account to Facebook, Twitter and others with settings you control.)
The following Neighborhood features will be retired:
  • Seldom used forums including: the Alumni Forums, The Global Neighborhood Forums will be retired. In addition, forums that generate excessively long threads will be retired including the Accountability forum. In addition we will retire the ambassador titles, Fun Friday, Neighborhood Swaps, Weekend Wanderings and all threads exceeding 80 posts each. The new Social Groups and Awards system will replace and improve the community in a membership-driven inclusive manner; in other words the membership will build the content in a manner that is useful and meaningful to them. Fewer forums will keep the conversation focused on the weight loss surgery experience and empowering one another to do our best in the pursuit of healthy weight management.
Please watch your inbox for updates and tutorials. We look forward to seeing you in the Neighborhood in 2012.

LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood

Monday, December 12, 2011

Now in our Archive: Best of 2011 Newsletters

Greetings! 

Hello and Welcome!

It's that time of year again when we prepare to close the cover on another calendar and reflect upon the year just finished before setting our sights on the new one. With pleasure we present you the best of our email newsletters from 2011. Not only do the newsletters give us a look back at what we learned, they can provide a source of inspiration and excitement for the year to come. Perhaps you'll find one of your favorites from our list here, or maybe come across one you missed. But most of all we hope these newsletters serve you well in your continued pursuit of health with weight loss surgery. We look forward to providing more meaningful content and useful recipes and ideas in 2012.

CHEERS!
Kaye 



Sunday, December 11, 2011

Best WLS Party Tips - Must Read

Keep in mind as you are preparing for the party that the goal is to arrive at the party in the very best state of biochemical balance possible so you can enjoy the people, the setting, the entertainment, and the total party experience. You can best do this by following the Four Rules and Liquid Restrictions in the days and hours leading up to the party. It is a privilege to attend a party in a state of balance and good health, a privilege worth the effort, a privilege you deserve to enjoy!

Read the full article in the 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin - Link Here

What really causes Holiday weight gain?

From the 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin

It is not the big meals that cause weight gain...
It's the BLTs!



This time of year it is very typical to read the calorie count of traditional holiday meals. The Thanksgiving Day Turkey Feast easily comes in at 1,400 calories and the Christmas Day Prime Rib Extravaganza packs in a whopping 1,800 calories. Experts warn us that weight gain from holiday eating is inevitable. But I dare say that, especially for those of us who have undergone gastric surgery for weight management, it is not the big meals that do us in: it is the BLT's: Bites, Licks, and Tastes. I wish I knew which diet program or person coined the BLT's so I could give them credit, it has been in my diet-talk for as long as I can remember. You have probably heard it it too.

The Bites, Licks, and Tastes
will do us more harm than any big meal because even with our little tummy pouches there is always room for another Bite, Lick or Taste. When we sit down to a big meal our pouch fills quickly and when we are full discomfort occurs and further eating adds to that discomfort, so we stop eating. That is how the pouch is supposed to work. But standing in the kitchen stirring a sauce or baking cookies it seems we always have room for little Bites, Licks and Tastes. I've talked to many people who are in the BLT boat with me, maybe you are there too. So here are a few tricks I've learned to help me avoid caloric uptick and weight gain that comes from unchecked BLTs:

Read More

Sunday, December 04, 2011

Merry Savings: Save $4 in the General Store

Celebrate the season by treating yourself to better weight management with weight loss surgery. Quality products to promote weight loss, halt weight regain, and keep you on track LivingAfterWLS.

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Save $4 at checkout - Use code: MERRY2011


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Quality Weight Loss Surgery Products to support and enable your successful weight management.


Publications
5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual by Kaye Bailey; Day 6 by Kaye Bailey; Protein Counter; Food Counter; and more.

Dietary Support:
including protein shake mixes (portable in single-serve pouches); Carb Monster Soups; Emergen-C; Health promoting herbal tea; vitamin supplements.

5 Day Pouch Test Support:
The plan, soups, protein mixes, emergency, tea.

Healthy Hair:
Vitamin and nutritional support and hair care products to improve hair loss resulting from weight loss surgery.

SALES - Link Here

Saturday, December 03, 2011

Are you a Flattery-Floozie or a Yeah-But-Betty?

LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest: December 1, 2011

After attending several WLS events recently I started noticing a trend among our weight loss surgery sisters that may seem at first superficial but once examined reveals much about the emotional journey from obesity to healthy weight. Unlike other diseases, obesity can be observed and diagnosed by the lay person: men, women, and children alike. Who among us doesn't cringe at the memory of an innocent child drawing attention to the "Fat Lady"? While this lay-diagnosis is most often uncomfortable and probably unwanted, wearing our disease in our plus-size britches also provides opportunity for positive feedback when we are losing weight and becoming healthier. Feedback can be complimentary, "You look wonderful" or incredible, "You have lost a TON of weight" or nosey, "Did you get the surgery?" or underhanded "Too bad you lost all that weight only to lose your hair and find all those wrinkles!" It's no wonder we evolve coping personalities to emotionally manage this feedback. As obese people we had coping strategies as well. Think of the forever funny fat lady who is really crying on the inside while laughing on the outside. She makes herself the target of her own fat jokes just to beat others to the punch and avoid the hurt.

...

With the ladies I find that two typical personalities emerge, see if you recognize them. 

Link to Article

You do not have to gain Holiday Weight

We started December with the You Have Arrived Weekly Digest that focused on holiday tips to avoid the weight gain so many people believe is inevitible between Thanksgiving and New Years. It really isn't that difficult to maintain weight or even lose a few pounds if we make good use of our weight loss surgery tool and work the rules. From the newsletter:



Stay on Track Tips
Enjoy the Holidays
without the Guilt!

I am pleased to tell you that the mainstream media is wrong when they say every one of us will gain five to seven pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It simply doesn't have to be that way. Over the years I've learned a few things about working the WLS tool in harmony with the act and pleasure of celebrating the season with food, family and friends. Take a look and see if you can work these tips into your holidays and prove the weight gain wardens wrong.

Read the full Article

Please join our email newsletter list to receive great content and inspiring articles to help you stay true to yourself and your original goals with weight loss surgery. Free & Privacy Protected.
Join List

Monday, November 07, 2011

5 Day Pouch Test Build a Bundle - Get on Track for Holidays

Are you doing the 5 Day Pouch Test in preparation for the holidays? Did you know you can get the perfect products to get you back on track with our Build-a-Bundle package? Get exactly what you need and get back on track with your WLS goals. Do it your way & be ready for the feasting season!
Build a Bundle Your Way

5 Day Pouch Test Build a Bundle
LivingAfterWLS General Store
 

Real Men Eat Breakfast: Especially with WLS

 From Cooking with Kaye November 6, 2011

Hearty Breakfast:
Yogurt & Granola are for Sissy's

Men who report following a diet for weight loss say a hearty breakfast is key for staying on track all day. And by hearty I mean eggs, bacon or sausage, whole grain and some vegetable or fruit complex carbohydrates. Women, on the other hand, tend to eat "proper" diet food for breakfast such as yogurt or granola, a meal replacement shake, fresh fruit or simply plain black coffee or tea. You already know who feels hungry by 10 a.m.

Joel, a weight loss surgery patient from Indiana down 120+ pounds told me, "I need to have breakfast, to put my food on a plate and eat it with a fork and knife. It has to look like a meal. I tried going with shakes for breakfast but it just didn't do it for me. I'm born and bred a farm boy and we eat breakfast early, every day. But now, instead of 12 slices of bacon and 4 pieces of toast I have 2 slices of bacon, scrambled eggs and a few bites of toast." Joel added that he pays attention to his pouch and stops eating at the first sign of fullness. And he saves that strong cup of cowboy coffee for a little bit later in the day giving his food time to digest.

Most of us cite lack of time as the major barrier in preparing a healthy cooked breakfast. Dedicating some time once a week to ingredient preparation can make tossing together a one-pan breakfast a snap. Consider cooking a package of bacon or lean sausage all at once and store in the refrigerator until time to make breakfast. Clean, chop, and store veggies (in the recipe below we use sliced mushrooms) so they are ready to toss in the one-pan breakfast as you need them. Use non-stick pans and cooking spray to make clean-up a snap. Save leftovers and gently reheat for a warm breakfast the next day.  And set the clock 15 minutes earlier if needed: you deserve to start the day with a healthy hearty meal.

The One-Pan Breakfast
Here is a blueprint for a manly one-pan breakfast. Use it as your guideline for tossing together great food in snap to start the day off right.

Ingredients:
6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup mushroom slices
1 cup grape tomatoes, washed, halved
Salt and Pepper to taste
Canola or Olive Oil
8 large eggs

Directions:
Coat the bottom of a large skillet with the canola or olive oil, about 1 teaspoon. Heat over medium high and add the mushrooms and tomatoes. Cook and stir until vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper.  Transfer mixture to a plate and keep warm. Add crumbled bacon to skillet and toss and stir until just reheated. Add warm crumbled bacon to mushroom and tomatoes. Add 2 teaspoons canola or olive oil to the pan and then carefully crack in the eggs. Cook them sunny-side up, or until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.

As the eggs continue to cook distribute the bacon, mushrooms and tomatoes back to the pan arranging around the eggs. Cook eggs to your preferred doneness and serve warm, 2 eggs per serving, with a generous serving of the vegetables and bacon.

Change-ups:
Scramble the eggs if you prefer. When almost done top with bacon and veggies. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese and melt under broiler. Consider using cooked flaked halibut or salmon in place of the bacon. Peeled, ready-to-eat shrimp is another good lean protein that works well in this dish. No time for veggies? Use good quality salsa in place of the vegetables.
 
View Cooking with Kaye in our archive: CWK November 6, 2011

Cooking with Kaye: Man Food & WLS

This week in Cooking at Kaye we explored difference between men and women who diet to lose weight. The free ezine newsletter included 14 great recipes that are big on flavor, easy on preparation, and hearty man-happy food. Take a look and put some of these protein plates on your table!

Link to Newsletter

Men & Women:
The Dieting Divide 

by Kaye Bailey
Here are few random observations from my research on men vs. women dieters:

~ Men want food that looks like food. A burger, a steak, a taco, all need to look like the food they are. One man told me, "Don't call it a taco salad; there is no taco. Call it a salad with taco stuff on top."

~ Men are not as likely as women to keep a food diary or count calories. While they lose useful data by not doing so, they are also less stressed about every bite of food they eat compared with food loggers.

~ Men are less likely than women to seek out sweet treats or indulgences. However, most men will accept and enjoy a sweet treat when presented with the opportunity to do so.

~ Men tend to plan get together with friends first focusing on the event. The food and drink is secondary to the. On the other hand, women will create events or gatherings focusing first on the food. This is attributed to gender-specific nurturing tendencies of women.

~ Men are motivated to buy foods marketed as energy and endurance builders. Women are motivated to buy foods low in fat, carbs, sugar and promising weight loss.

Friday, October 28, 2011

Healthy Hair after Weight Loss Surgery

Healthy Hair after Weight Loss Surgery


Healthy Hair: nurturing beauty inside and out
"How can I control my life when I cannot control my hair?"
--Author unknown but I bet it was a woman with WLS!

"You've heard the stories about hair loss associated with weight loss surgery. Maybe dramatic hair loss is your story. It was mine. Six months out of surgery I was several dress sizes smaller and going bald. You too? That was 12 years ago and I was on my own to figure out how to fix it. Now I'm pleased to say I have healthy lustrous hair and these are the products that are working for me. I offer them to you with confidence, and the assurance you do not need to spend 12 years trying to get your hair back. Please take a look."
--Kaye Bailey, founder LivingAfterWLS & 12 years post RNY Gastric Bypass.

Learn More

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Cooking with Kaye: WLS Friendly Treats

Halloween Treats You Can Eat! Greetings!

Greetings Neighbors and Happy Halloween to You! Have you picked up on the news reports the last few weeks? Americans are expected to spend $2 Billion on candy this year for Halloween treats. According to big box stores customers have been stocking up for nearly 5 weeks now and will return again to replenish their candy supplies before the little costumed door knockers come calling on Saturday night. In spite of tough economic times consumers are spending nearly 7% more on candy this year than last. Some speculate that in tough times of economically driven sacrifice a little indulgence in sweet treats is much deserved.

It is no wonder we are confounded by so much temptation. Nobody wants to feel left-out of the Halloween hoopla but we know the consequences of a candy fest can be catastrophic for us. Today in this special edition of the You Have Arrived email newsletter I present several treats you can feel good about enjoying! We had gastric surgery to become healthy so that we could embrace life to the fullest -- not sit on the sidelines. Making small changes in how we celebrate goes a long way making those dreams of living a reality. I wish you the best in the coming days -- may all your haunting be happy!!

Happy Halloween!
Kaye Bailey

PS-- Please read my article about sugar free candy to avoid the discomfort that it may cause: Holiday Sugar Free Candy

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Coupon Code: LivingAfterWLS General Store

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Coupon Code: FALLSALE2011

Falling Prices! Save 2.00 on all orders - no minimum order! Stock up for fall in the LivingAfterWLS General Store
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The Skinny on Sugar and Fake Sugar

The LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest 10/19/2011:

Greetings! 

Hello and Welcome!

With Halloween just around the corner and the feasting holidays coming right behind now is a good time to look at sugar, artificial sweeteners and the role they play in our weight loss surgery diets. I am always nervous about the "sugar" newsletter because if there is one thing health conscious people have strong opinions about it is sweet foods and how they get to be sweet. There is so much information (and mis-information) about sweets in the American diet that we can find "studies" or "proof" to support just about any position we want to take.


As a voice in the weight loss surgery community I seek the most current data from the sources we trust in this country to protect the health of the citizens. My sources include the Food and Drug Administration, The American Diabetes Association, The American Heart Association, The Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Medicine -- to name a few.

Today I've gathered some tidbits from these trusted sources to look at sugar, sugar substitutes, and sugar alcohol in the American diet and the weight loss surgery diet. I know that my fellow WLS patients are avid researchers and students and I invite you to take this information, expand on it with your own research, and apply to your personal experience. I believe you will find a suitable relationship with sweets in your healthy recovery from obesity with weight loss surgery.

And finally, this Halloween I wish you the best of life's treats as you pursue your dreams LivingAfterWLS!

CHEERS!
Kaye

Read the full digest in our archive: October 19, 2011


Featured Articles:
Recipe: Chunky Peanut Butter Triangles
Sugar-Free Holiday Candy is Trouble
FAQ's on Sugar
Artificial Sweeteners

 

Tuesday, October 04, 2011

Stop! WLS is not a Contest

5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin October 4, 2011

 Maybe it's the fall sports season that has so many of us in the competitive mood lately. Seems like things have really heated up on the weight loss surgery scrimmage lines where it is more popular than ever to compare and compete with one another in our weight loss. And while some healthy competition can be a great motivator the comparison of weight loss can lead to utter discouragement. I see it even with the 5 Day Pouch Test that people are making comparisons in how much weight is lost in the 5 days and if they do not meet that superficial standard they consider their 5DPT effort a failure.  It is not.

Unless you pound-for-pound and fork-for-fork competitively gained weight with another person you have no business competing to lose weight. Contrary to popular culture, weight loss is not a contest. Weight loss is a life saving initiative owned by the one taking action.

By all means we should compare our experiences. Let's share recipes and exercise tips. Let's give reminders to drink our water and take our supplements. But let's leave the competition to the amateurs. As weight loss surgery patients we understand that our lives were in danger from obesity and we took medical action to change the course. We are much wiser for it. Few people who join their positive energy forces in a united effort for better health ever feel burdened by not living up to an artificial contest.

If you are feeling beaten by the competition I invite you to download and print the copyrighted poster above. You can get it here. Please let it serve as a reminder the grand purpose of this weight loss surgery experience. You deserve to be healthy and pursue many prizes that far exceed the dot-marks on a weight loss ticker.

See the full bulletin in our Archive

LivingAfterWLS General Store-Safely Slim Protein Drinks

LivingAfterWLS General Store



"What I love about these nutritional support drinks is not just the smooth texture and creamy flavor, but they add 10 grams of fiber to my diet per serving. Weight loss surgery patients will not find a more delicious nutritional powerhouse on the market."
Kaye Bailey

Shop Now at Introductory Prices

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

New Products & Great Savings Coupon

Save 9% off order at checkout. Code: RENEW2011
SHOP NOW



LivingAfterWLS General Store
NEW!
Antioxident Protein Drink Mixes
10g Protein/Serving
All Natural Ingredients
Portable
Delicious!

Herbal Teas

Only 50 Calories
Enjoy anytime on the
5 Day Pouch Test & Beyond

5 Day Pouch Test Support Products

High Quality Whey Protein Isolate by America's Protein Experts Designer Whey.

Include as part of your healthy diet and weight management with weight loss surgery.

Try Our 2-Serving Sample
1 Serving each flavor:
Orange Mango
Pomegranate Fruit

List: $5.10
Your Bargain Price: $4.85
Buy Now!

B Vitamins Refresher Course

Refresher Course: The B Vitamins. Here is a detailed article about the B Vitamins and why we need them, especially after WLS.  Consider taking a high potency B Complex vitamin for best delivery of nutrients to the body.

B Vitamins - What Are They and Why Weight Loss Surgery Patients Need Supplements
By Kaye Bailey

Weight loss surgery patients are advised to compliment their diet with a vitamin B supplement often taken in sublingual tablet form or by monthly injections. Some surgical procedures for weight loss inhibit absorption of the B vitamins which may result in deficiency. In addition, the low calorie high protein diet following bariatric surgery does not provide adequate dietary intake of B vitamins. Patients should follow the specific directions of their bariatric center when taking B vitamin supplements. Annual blood tests are needed to ensure deficiencies are quickly identified and treated.

The B vitamins are eight water-soluble vitamins that play important roles in cell metabolism. B vitamins are found in all whole, unprocessed foods. B vitamins play a key role in supporting and increasing the rate of metabolism; maintaining healthy skin and muscle tone; enhancing the immune and nervous system; promote cell growth and division; including that of the red blood cells that help prevent anemia; and may reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Vitamin B1: Thiamine
Thiamine is highly concentrated in yeast so cereal grains are an important source of this vitamin that is essential in helping the body transform food into energy and contributes to brain, nerve cell, and heart function. Pork, fish, sunflower seeds, rice, and pasta also supply good amounts of thiamine. Many processed foods are enriched with thiamine. The Reference Daily Intake (RDA) of thiamine is 1.4mg, however some studies suggest intake of 50mg increases mental alertness. Thiamine absorption occurs in the jejunum and ileum, therefore gastric bypass and gastric sleeve patients have decreased opportunity for vitamin B1 absorption from food.

Vitamin B2: Riboflavin
Riboflavin is found in dairy products, lean meats, eggs, nuts, legumes, leafy greens, and enriched breads and cereals. It plays an essential roll in the production of red blood cells, energy production, and growth. Riboflavin is an easily absorbed micronutrient that is best known visually as the vitamin which imparts the orange color to solid B-vitamin supplements. People who take a high-dose B-complex will notice an unusual fluorescent yellow color in their urine as they slough off excess vitamin B2. Riboflavin is continuously excreted in the urine of healthy individuals, making deficiency relatively common when dietary intake is insufficient. Visible symptoms of riboflavin deficiency included cracked and red lips, inflammation of the lining of mouth and tongue, mouth ulcers, cracks in the corner of the mouth, and a sore throat. The RDA for vitamin B2 is 1.3mg/day for men and 1.1mg/day for women. Most vitamin B complex supplements provide a much higher dose of riboflavin.

Vitamin B3: Niacin
Like thiamine, niacin is important in the conversion of food to energy. It is also required for normal growth and the synthesis of DNA and helps keep the skin, nerves, and digestive system healthy. Niacin occurs naturally in lean meat, poultry, and seafood. Milk, cereals, and some dietary meal replacement bars and drinks are fortified with niacin. The RDA of niacin for men is 16mg and women 14mg. Extreme dosages (1.5-6 grams/day) of niacin may cause flushing and itching and may also elevate blood sugar. Standard supplementation should not result in this toxic reaction.

Vitamin B5: Pantothenic Acid
Pantothenic acid also helps the body convert food into energy and plays a role in synthesizing hormones and other body chemicals. Deficiencies of pantothenic acid are virtually unknown. The name pantothen is Greek meaning "from everywhere" and small amounts of pantothenic acid are found plant and animal food sources including grains, legumes, eggs, meat, and poultry. The RDA for both men and women is 5mg/day.

Vitamin B6: Pyridoxine
Pyridoxine is important in the utilization of protein and in the production of red blood cells. It works with other B vitamins to boost the immune system and produce antibodies. Good sources of B6 are chicken, beef, fish, beans, bananas, and enriched cereals. Pyridoxine is not commonly found in plants.

Vitamin B7: Biotin
We frequently hear about the role biotin plays in hair and skin growth but this powerful vitamin also plays a key role in the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates into energy. Studies indicate biotin may also be helpful in maintaining a steady blood sugar level. Biotin is found in eggs, dairy products, legumes, whole grains and cruciferous vegetables. People in the phase of rapid weight loss following weight loss surgery often experience hair loss, which may be the result of biotin deficiency. Increased biotin supplementation immediately following surgery may lower the risk of hair loss due to biotin deficiency.

Vitamin B9: Folic Acid
This B vitamin - also called folate or folacin, is vital to tissue growth and plays a role in the prevention of certain birth defects. It is important for women of childbearing age to get enough of this nutrient. It is believed folate may also help prevent certain cancers and help prevent heart disease. Good sources of folate include artichokes, asparagus, avocado, blackberries, broccoli, brussels spouts, chickpeas, green peas, lentils, orange juice, raw peanuts, pinto beans, romaine lettuce, spinach, wheat germ and wild rice. Many cereals and refined grain products are fortified with folate.

Vitamin B12: Various Cobalamins
Vitamin B12 plays a role in the formation of red blood cells and in the functioning of the nervous system and it enables the body to utilize folate. Called cobalamin, vitamin B12 is plentiful in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products.

Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved

UNJURY® Recipes: Pumpkin Spice Latte

You guys know how I love my UNJURY ® Protein. Well, today received this recipe in an email from them. Looks delicious - I'm going to give it a try! Thought you might enjoy it as well. Let me know what you think.

UNJURY® Recipes: Pumpkin Spice Latte
 
UNJURY Pumpkin Spice Latte is a tasty way to enjoy the flavors of the season. With 24 grams of protein, the Pumpkin Spice Latte lets you indulge in the fantastic flavors of fall while staying on track.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients:

    1 scoop or 1 packet Vanilla UNJURY
    1 tablespoon Canned Pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
    ¼ teaspoon Apple Pie Spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice)
    ½ cup Skim Milk2, Lactose Free Milk, Soy Milk3, Rice Milk4
    2 teaspoons Splenda or Equal (add more or less to adjust sweetness)
    ½ cup Water
    1 teaspoon Instant Coffee (regular or decaf)

Directions:

-Heat water in microwave (below 130 degrees) then mix in instant coffee

Add:

-Coffee (as prepared above), milk, canned pumpkin, Vanilla UNJURY, apple pie spice and sweetener in blender

-Blend until combined (about 30 seconds)

-Heat in microwave until warm or serve over ice

Fun Extras

-Serve with a cinnamon stick

-Top with 1 tablespoon of cool-whip (sugar free or regular) and sprinkle with Apple Pie Spice

Nutrition Facts per Serving: 150 calories, 24 grams protein, 11 grams carbohydrate and 9.5 grams sugar


If you need new ways to use UNJURY, give us a call. We are always happy to talk with customers.

We are here Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Eastern Time. Or just email Nutrition@UNJURY.com

As always, thank you so much for telling others about UNJURY.

Order UNJURY Protein and OPURITY Vitamins now!

Martha and Jerome

UNJURY® Medical Quality Protein ™

OPURITY ® China-Free™ Vitamins

Service@UNJURY.com or Service@OPURITY.com

www.UNJURY.com or www.OPURITY.com

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

12 Years Ago Today - I Arrived

12 Arrivalversary - Celebrating In the Neighborhood

Today marks the 12th Anniversary of my gastric bypass surgery on September 13, 1999. As we do each year on this date Jim took my "AFTER" picture. This morning out in the yard with the beautiful sunshine KeepHerKitty decided to join me for a picture. Isn't she gorgeous? Like all of here at LivingAfterWLS she struggles with her weight, as you can see. And sadly I am a treat giving enabler to her. So here is the picture, my latest "After" in this ongoing journey of LivingAfterWLS.


Watch your inbox for the LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest this week, I have collected and shared many of the lessons I have learned in these 12 years. You can subscribe to the free emails here: LivingAfterWLS Newsletters. I have been fortunate to learn so much from all of you wonderful Neighbors and it is an honor to able to share our collective experience.

So CHEERS to another 12 Years!

Show the world you "LIKE" LivingAfterWLS - Click LIKE on our Facebook Page





LivingAfterWLS General Store
Great Coupon for September!!! Code: RENEW2011
In this 9th month of the year when we RENEW our attention & efforts for healthy weight management we are pleased to offer 9% off orders of $20 or more. Enter code at Checkout & Save!

Friday, September 09, 2011

Super Coupon Save 9% at LivingAfterWLS General Store

Excellent time to shop at the LivingAfterWLS General Store! Save 9% off already great discounted prices on your favorite #WLS products. Coupon Code: RENEW2011 at checkout on orders of $20 or more. Shop & Save & Live Better!

Check out our new dietary support products including Designer Whey Protein2GO

Coming to grips with Carbs & WLS

What's the deal with carbs after WLS? This is one of the most commonly asked questions we see here at LivingAfterWLS. In fact, we dedicated an entire Cooking with Kaye email newsletter to the topic of carbohydrates. You can see the entire newsletter here:

Cooking with Kaye: Never Count Carbs Again

Here is the opening article from the newsletter. Be sure and follow the link though, you will find tons of great information and recipes in the free newsletter. And there is a link to download the file so you can print it and save in your WLS notebook.


"A major area of concern and sometimes confusion for us after weight loss surgery is how many grams of carbohydrates should we eat in a day. Have you been perplexed over the carbohydrate question? Today in Cooking with Kaye we take a look at carbs and the role they play our diet after weight loss surgery.

"It is popular in the health and nutrition fields to describe carbs as "good carbs" or "bad carbs". I prefer not to use those words because they assign a moral trait to food and food does not have moral traits. Food is food. When we remove moral assignment from the food we eat we can be smart, thoughtful, and rational with our choices. But if we assign morals to food and eat "bad carbs" then we must be bad. You know the self-blame cycle I'm talking about.

Instead of good carbs and bad carbs I prefer to use more accurate terms:

  •     Fruit and Vegetable Carbs or Complex Carbs
  •     Grain and Starch Carbs or Complex Carbs
  •     Processed Manufactured Carbs or Simple Carbs

I have them arranged in nutritional importance to us after undergoing weight loss surgery. Like other nutrients carbohydrates are measured in grams. A 2008 broad-canvas study of bariatric centers revealed that few bariatric surgeons or nutritionists give a specific daily quota for carbohydrate intake. Most default to the 113g RDA recommended by the National Academies' Institute of Medicine for people following a 1200 calorie a day diet. It takes roughly 8 to 10 cups of fruit and vegetables to equal 113g complex carbohydrates and I do not know any weight loss surgery patient who can consume that much volume.

That is good news. While it is unlikely we can ever reach that daily intake by eating fruits and vegetables it is also unlikely we will ever over eat our carbohydrate allowance when we select high moisture, high fiber fruits and vegetables. A variety of fruits and vegetables promotes good health because they contain disease fighting vitamins and nutrients. Fruits and vegetables enjoyed with lean protein improve the overall eating experience for weight loss surgery patients because they are high in moisture. This is a relief when we are following the liquid restrictions and not drinking a beverage with meals.

Today we look at Protein & Fruit WLS Perfect Mealcomplex carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables. We have some great tips and recipes to include them in your diet for life-long weight management. Pictured here is a typical breakfast plate for me that included 2 ounces white meat roasted turkey, 1 hard-cooked egg, 6 blackberries and 1/2 large kiwifruit. After enjoying this meal I will not feel hungry or crave sweets for several hours. (Nutritional Count: 182 Calories 

(44% Protein, 32% Fat, 24% Carbohydrate); 20g Protein; 6g Fat; 11g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber. 75% RDI Vitamin C, 25% RDI Niacin, 5% RDI Calcium.) I consider this plate a perfect breakfast and while I don't get it right every morning it is a goal I aim for because on days when I get this right I am powerful and in control."

Cooking with Kaye - Never Count Carbs Again

Garden Surplus? Try Mini Zucchini Pizzas

 We published this recipe earlier this year in the April 5 Cooking with Kaye newsletter. Thanks to some generous neighbors I have lots of zucchini on hand. Now is a great time to give this recipe another try! I hope you enjoy it.

Mini Zucchini Pizzas
This recipe comes together quickly and each muffin-half pizza is a perfect portion for the weight loss surgery patient. Left-over servings may be gently reheated in the microwave or toaster oven and enjoyed as a light lunch the following day. Add additional vegetables to suit the season and your taste.

Ingredients:
1 cup chopped scallions
1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 14-ounce jar Ragú Pizza Quick Sauce
3 English muffins (whole wheat or white), split and toasted
1 cup shredded Muenster cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  In a large skillet, sauté scallions and zucchini in vegetable oil until tender. Spoon 1 1/2 tablespoons pizza sauce on each toasted muffin half. Evenly top with Muenster cheese, zucchini and scallions; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Place on baking sheet and bake 15-20 minutes or until cheese melts.

6 Servings. Per Serving: 284 Calories, 10g Protein, 11g Fat, 16g Carbohydrate, 4g Dietary Fiber.

Wednesday, September 07, 2011

Southwestern Chicken Soup - 5 Ingredients; Tons of flavor

Kimmie Gee posted this recipe in the LivingAfterWLS Community Kitchen and it is a goody! Only five ingredients but tons of flavor. And the easy method is quick and perfect for a weeknight supper. I have leftover chicken we roasted in the Weber kettle grill that will be very happy to swim in this soup! Now I'm getting very hungry! Please add your favorite WLS friendly recipe to our growing collection in the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood.

A friend shared this soup with me and I think it's a great warm up for this time of year, and very friendly for wls folks!! If you try it, drop me a line and let me know how it turned out.

Five Simple Ingredients:
Chicken, cooked & shredded or chunked (I used 12.5oz Trader Joe's canned chunk chicken breast, but rotisserie would be fabulous)
Salsa Verde (I used 16oz jar Herdez)
White Cannellini Beans, drained & rinsed (I used 15.5oz Bush's)
Chicken Broth (I used 16oz Kitchen's Best Chicken Stock)
Couple dashes of Southwest Seasoning (optional, but I do use it)

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, warm through and enjoy. That's it!
As written, this recipe yields (about) six-1cup servings at (approximately) 164 calories & 18 grams of protein per serving.

I add a dollop of sour cream, which (obviously) affects these totals, but I like the creaminess it provides!!

New in LivingAfterWLS General Store!

NEW!
Antioxident Protein Drink Mixes
10g Protein/Serving
All Natural Ingredients
Portable
Delicious!

Herbal Teas Only 50 Calories
Enjoy anytime on the
5 Day Pouch Test
High Quality Whey Protein Isolate by America's Protein Experts Designer Whey.
Include as part of your healthy diet and weight management with weight loss surgery.
Try Our 2-Serving Sample
1 Serving each flavor:
Orange Mango
Pomegranate Fruit

List: $5.10
Your Bargain Price: $4.85
Buy Now!

Shop LivingAfterWLS General Store

Tuesday, September 06, 2011

Farmer's Market Tomatoes

Oh My Goodness!  Look at the goodness in these vine-ripe tomatoes from the Farmer's Market. For me nothing screams late summer better or louder than a warm freshly picked tomato. And they are so delicious and so good for us! I have heard tomatoes called the culinary equivalent of the Little Black Dress because they are perfect just as they are yet so willing to get all dressed up and fancy!

Some of you have noticed the frequency with which tomatoes show up in my recipes. Not forsaking my shear love of tomatoes they are very good for us and many weight loss surgery patients report a high tolerance for tomatoes in all their forms --fresh, canned, dried, and as a juice or sauce -- and include them in their diets accordingly. One cup of raw tomato provides 38 calories (it is mostly water), 2g dietary fiber, 2g protein, and 57% of your daily value of Vitamin C. Several studies suggest that the lycopene found in tomatoes is beneficial in helping prevent some forms of cancer.

Are you a tomato head like me? Then you will love this perfect recipe. I found it in The Oprah Magazine Cookbook:


on page 79. It was created by Celia Barbour and clearly she is my soulmate. I think with this recipe I'd even splurge on the bread and where I normally make open faced sandwiches I'd put my tomatoes worth between two slices and enjoy!

Tomato Sandwich
by Celia Barbour

"A perfectly ripe tomato is the most important ingredient here. It should be summer-time juicy and grown close by; otherwise there's not much point to the sandwich!

Ingredients:
1 ripe tomato
2 slices bread, preferably white farm or peasant
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
salt and pepper (optional)

Directions:
Slice the tomato thickly -- about as thick as a slice of bread. Spread the bread with mayonnaise. Place the tomato on one slice. Sprinkle wiht salt and a little pepper, if you like. Top with the other slice of bread. Cut the sandwich in half. Go outside.

Makes 1 sandwich.
Another favorite tomato recipe:

Mozzarella Tomato Boats

This is a little recipe I "invented" last summer, although I’m confident it’s been done before. It’s simple: stuff cored plum tomatoes with mozzarella, olive oil & basil and grill until the cheese melts. Delicious! Plan two tomatoes per person.

Link to Recipe

Friday, September 02, 2011

Thursday, September 01, 2011

Date Change: Rhode Island Walk from Obesity

This is a direct message from Julie Nolan at CharterCARE regarding the Walk From Obesity event in Rhode Island - Important date change.  Please share:


*** *URGENT* *** *URGENT* *** *URGENT* ***
Our September 10, 2011 Event Date has changed!!!!
New Date is: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2011

Same location and times ... just a different day!

Due to Hurricane Irene's extensive damages and power outages along the East Coast, the printing and shipping of our WFO Banner and T-Shirts has been delayed!

We will not have enough time to print OUR Local sponsors on the back of the T-shirts in time for the planned Walk from Obesity date.

Because of site non-availability, we had to hold off the rescheduled date to October 8, 2011.

We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused our Participants and Vendors who have committed to the September event. We are hoping that you will STILL be able to attend the October 8, 2011 event.

For those who have already registered online, your registration information and donations have not been altered. You will receive an email directly from the Walk from Obesity team to reflect the date change.

On the bright side....we have more time to collect donations, get pledges and raffle items!

Our Walk from Obesity Event Volunteers will continue meeting each Sunday, Sept 11th, 18th, 25th and Oct 2nd at my home, 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Please join us (kids are welcome).

Please contact me with ANY questions you have.

For more information about or if you would like to donate to the 2nd Annual Rhode Island Walk from Obesity Event please visit

http://walkfromobesity.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.eventDetails&eventID=545

GET INVOLVED! Become captain of your own team or join our Roger Williams Medical Center Living Life Support Groups' team!

Thank you for your continued support!
Jules

LivingAfterWLS General Store

LivingAfterWLS General Store
Day 6 Bargain Bundle - Keep it Going!

Last day to save!!!


Looking for a Coupon?

Throughout the year, as economic conditons allow, LivingAfterWLS is pleased to offer coupon savings in addition to our already discounted prices. Coupons are announced in our Email newsletters, in the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood, Facebook and Twitter. In addition, we post the current coupon offered on the Store Home Page. Sign up for our Email newsletters at the bottom of this page - Safe Subscribe! 




Coupon Code:
HEAT2011
Save $2.20 Off S&H
All Orders
Enter Code at Checkout:
HEAT2011






Blog Roll - Have you got something to say?

So here I am, Sleepless at LivingAfterWLS, and I was clicking through the blog roll on this very blog. Not a current link on the list!  So, I'm revamping the blog roll. Are you a weight loss surgery #WLS blogger? Do you keep your postings current? Drop me a note and I'll blogroll you!  Send me a quick message to KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS or Tweet me your link @LivingAfterWLS or FB me http://www.facebook.com/LivingAfterWLS. I'll get you listed here and keep up with you. As I say time and again -- We are all in this together!


Did you know that #WLS Bloggers are extremely predictable? I have been studying this for nearly 10 years now. We blog hot & heavy before weight loss surgery and keep it up the first year after surgery as we go through the phase some call "rapid weight loss" or "honeymoon" period. Postings taper off in the second year and by the third year most #WLS bloggers are AWOL.  Have you noticed this? If you followed this pattern what is the reason for the wax & wane of your #WLS blog?


Do tell!


I know that on Sept. 13 I'll be 12 years post-op. And I've said pretty much all I have to say about my personal #WLS experience and life as I know it after being gut-whacked. But now this (talking about WLS) is my job -- my calling if you will -- so I need to keep posting. It seems my posts are a lot less personal these days. Does this mean I am "back to normal"?

I hope we get some interesting discussion here...... What is your take on the blog cycle of a WLS Neighbor?



Monday, August 29, 2011

New Neighborhood Mugs - Treat Yourself!

Just received my order of merchandise from the new LivingAfterWLS merchandise Store- Neighborhood Inspired hosted by Cafe' Press! I am so thrilled with the quality of products, the depth of the images, the simple beauty of our Neighborhood Inspired themes. Check out this mug celebrating The Neighborhood!  Products are created when you order and shipped directly to you - better for the environment; better for your pocketbook! Get yourself a mug today and be Neighborhood Inspired!  Lots more products coming - keep checking in with us!

Neighborhood Inspired Goods & Gifts

Neighborhood Inspired Store Link

Friday, August 26, 2011

Sending Safe Wishes To East Coast Neighbors - The Neighborhood

Sending Safe Wishes To East Coast Neighbors - The Neighborhood

Just dropping in to send some very big :love0028: hugs and warm wishes to our east coast Neighbors. It is very hard for us to understand the scope of fear and uncertainty you must be feeling as you watch the models of Hurricane Irene. But please know that both Jim and I are very concerned and sending you our best vibes and even a few prayers for your safety. Please check in with us when you can and please take care. You have many Neighbors who care about you!

Below is an article on Emergency preparedness for our kind of medical condition - take a moment to make sure your special needs are taken care of in your emergency preparation:

Emergency Preparedness For Weight Loss Surgery Patients
Weight loss surgery patients should take some extra steps in preparing an emergency readiness kit for use in the event of a natural or national disaster. Here are some good suggestions for preparing a special needs kit for the bariatric patient.


By Kaye Bailey

Following weight loss surgery patients make a multitude of adjustments in their lives to accommodate the dietary and nutritional needs of an altered gastric digestive system. Even if weight loss has long been accomplished patients who have undergone gastric bypass, gastric banding or gastric sleeve surgical procedures must, for the rest of their life, maintain rigorous nutritional and dietary habits in order to be healthy. After time these adjustments feel like second nature to the patient and even those around them. But in preparing an emergency kit for use in the wake of a natural or national disaster it is essential that weight loss surgery patients treat themselves as "special needs" and ensure their nutritional and dietary needs are provided for in the event the emergency kit is put into service.

Flood, fire, national disaster, or the loss of power from high winds, snow, or ice frequently jeopardize the health and safety of thousands of Americans each year. This year weather events and natural disasters have been particularly harsh throughout the world and many thousands have found themselves without food, shelter or warmth. While we cannot prevent natural or national disasters we can assemble emergency supply kits to improve our survivability when disaster strikes.



Plan Ahead - Build Your WLS Emergency Preparedness Kit
A well-prepared basic emergency supply kit will contain items to provide for the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends the following items be included in a basic emergency supply kit:

Water, one gallon of water per person per day for a least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Personal hygiene items
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilitites
Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
Local maps and Area Emergency Assistance Phone Numbers
Cell phone with chargers


Extra Essentials for WLS Patients:

Emergency readiness kits should provide water, food, clean air and warmth for 72 hours. Keeping that in mind a "special needs" weight loss surgery patient should consider including the following items in their personal readiness kit:
Vitamins and supplements for three days. Additional dosages of vitamins B and C may be included to relieve stress and boost immunity.

Non-NSAID over-the-counter pain relief medicine. Most surgical weight loss patients are discouraged from using NSAID medication for pain relief. Make sure acceptable OTC pain relief is included in the First aid kit.

Vitamin fortified or protein fortified powder drink mixes in individual packages. These are useful in adding minerals and nutrients to the diet while stretching the water supply because when mixed with the water rations they provide hydration and vitamin and mineral nutrition.

Ready-to-Drink (RTD) and Ready-to-Eat (RTE) protein drinks and protein bars. A weight loss surgery patient must have a minimum of 60 grams protein per day for best health. Provide at least 60 grams of dietary protein per day for three days of emergency use.

Sugar free hard candy to supplement food intake and keep the mouth moist.

Additional bedding or clothing for warmth. Body temperature regulation is difficult for those having lost body weight or body mass. Provide extra items for warmth in the event of a disaster that subjects the weight loss surgery patient to extreme cold or elements.

Emergency response information for the treatment of a bariatric patient including contact numbers. Make this information readily available to first responders.Gather items for the emergency preparedness kit in one location. Stow the items in a portable duffel bag or plastic bin that is accessible and labeled for easy access in the event of an emergency. Ideally each household member will have a kit tailored for their needs. Periodically check the kit and replenish items that have expired. Make certain all contact information is current. It is not easy to think about facing a disaster, but should the day come when the emergency kit is needed a little preparation will go a long way in making a bad situation better.

Kaye Bailey © 2010 - All Rights Reserved