5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin 3/28

Read the full bulletin in our online archive


Liquid Restrictions - More Than Just Rules

Greetings Neighbors!

One of the first places we go off track after weight loss surgery is forgetting to follow the liquid restrictions. Some centers call them water rules. In short, the liquid restrictions mean to cease drinking beverages 30 minutes before meals and refrain from drinking beverages with meals and for 30 minutes thereafter. This is so our pouch fills more quickly on solid food, we stay full longer, and our bodies have ample opportunity to digest food and absorb its nutrients. Most bariatric centers apply the liquid restrictions to all surgical procedures including gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding (lap-band), and gastric sleeve.

As informed and well-intentioned patients we do not willfully ignore the liquid restrictions. The reason it is easy to get away from them is that eating is more comfortable when we mix food with water to form a slurry rather than solid mass which tends to sit like a lump in our gastric pouch. Over time it becomes common to abandon the liquid restrictions all together as we return to a physically and socially more comfortable practice of eating and drinking together. This often leads to feelings of hunger not long after meals, and ultimately may lead to weight gain.

On the 5 Day Pouch Test website we read, "It is difficult for weight loss surgery patients to follow liquid restrictions because doing so causes tightness to occur in the stomach pouch, which for some is quite uncomfortable. Paradoxically, this discomfort is the mechanism by which gastric surgeries work: it is the signal to stop eating."

Full Article 

Days 1 and 2 of the 5 Day Pouch Test menu include liquid meals only. Participants can plan to have clear broth, protein drinks, or the carb monster soups. A person who has been following a strict weight loss surgery diet free of soft processed carbohydrates (snacks) will be able to complete Days 1&2 successfully on clear broth and protein shakes. To break a soft carbohyrdate snacking habit one will do better to enjoy the carb monster soups which facilitate a more gentle transition from snacky carbohydrates to complex vegetable and grain carbohydrates.

Because Days 1&2 are liquids people following the 5 Day Pouch Test to get back on track often ask if is necessary to observe the liquid restrictions. Yes it is necessary, for two reasons. First we are using the 5DPT as a mechanism to get back to our WLS basics, which includes liquid restrictions. Days 1&2 are the starting point of return to good habits. Next, we need to give our body time to digest the liquid and absorb the nutrients. Learn more about this in the article below.

Any time we eat it should be with the intention of providing our body food that it can digest and absorb in order to efficiently and powerfully fuel the metabolic process of living. If you have practiced guided imagery or meditation for other purposes apply those techniques as you visualize your food as it moves through your body and powers you through the day. Such practices facilitate moments of appreciation and understanding ultimately leading to treating our bodies and health more compassionately.  

   

Please review the liquid restrictions and your habits if you are using the 5 Day Pouch Test to get back on track this week. Take your knowledge and let it empower you.

You deserve to be your very best!

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

You Can Do This!
Kaye

"I believe in you.
You deserve to be healthy.
 You deserve to be kind to yourself.
You deserve to achieve your greatest level of success with weight loss surgery when you harness your inner resources."
--Kaye Bailey
5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual

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Spring Sunshine Accountability Challenge 

Spring sunshine... is there anything better? Granted, the old saying goes "April showers bring May flowers". What to we most look forward to though? Sunshine. Warmer temperatures. Flowers and fresh vegetables growing in our gardens. The thought of it makes me smile. If we emulate the spring, the season of rebirth and growth, then we will indeed glow like the sun. Let's all eat, breathe, and live like the spring sunshine; let the warmth and happiness that we have shine through. Let's cast off the cares of winter, those dark, cold and gloomy days that weighed us down and embrace the light. Join Us for this Challenge! You set your goals and participate at your pace in your way - empowered by the Neighborhood. 

5 Day Pouch Test Forum 

Always a popular destination the 5 Day Pouch Test Forum is your place to connect with others who are using this popular plan to get back on track with their weight loss surgery tool.

Day 6: Beyond the 5 Day Pouch Test 

Harness the momentum of your 5 Day Pouch Test and continue forward with a positive effort at Day 6 Living. Great support from others, like you, who are trying their best to live healthy happy lives with weight loss surgery.

The You Have Arrived Alumni Club 

Connect with others who had weight loss surgery the same year you did and share the journey! From the Pioneers of the 1980s to our newbies of 2010, everyone has a place in the Alumni Club to call home.

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A place to stop and share the things in our daily lives beyond weight loss surgery. A neighborly place of support and friendship.

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Spring Renewal - It's Your Time to Bloom!

Spring Renewal - It's Your Time to Bloom!
Happy Spring to you! I hope your world is renewed and awakening after a long winters rest. Like most of North America our winter has been long and harsh and it has outstayed its welcome. If you squint your eyes today I think you may be able to see a hint of green in the grass!

Spring is such a sweet time of renewal and it seems many  "reminders" pop-up this time of year. Change the batteries in the smoke detectors. Have vehicles serviced and seasonal tires changed. Schedule quarterly teeth cleaning. And it so it goes. Looking at this list of "To Do's" I couldn't help but notice the absence of "Review health and WLS status and wellness; plan healthy habits for coming days and weeks." Wouldn't it be nice if we received a gentle reminder in the mail to spring clean our weight loss surgery house?

Here it is! Rather than delay an assessment of our health and weight loss surgery until there is a problem (similar to delaying a visit to the dentist office until we have a toothache) here is our chance to take a look and celebrate what we are getting right, where we have opportunity to improve, and make a map for taking us through the new season. You'll find more about this in the article below that features a favorite LivingAfterWLS tool - the Quarterly Self Assessment. Please accept this gentle reminder to check your health and your weight loss surgery this week. Not many of us are brave enough to go to the market without a list, so why would we hope for the best with our WLS without making a list and a plan?  The worksheet is free and it doesn't hurt. And you will be glad you have sprung forward into a new season - It is your time to bloom!    

Happy 2011 - We are all in this together!
Free LivingAfterWLS Downloads

Kaye

KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS.com

Read the LivingAfterWLS Digest March 27, 2011

March Coupon Code: LivingAfterWLS General Store

Coupon Code: SPRING2011
LivingAfterWLS and Kaye Bailey are pleased you have chosen to make us part of your long-term success with weight loss surgery. We are committed to supporting you with quality products to enhance your life and empower your success.

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--Karen K.,  New Mexico 

Coupon Code: SPRING2011

Obesity be Damned!

LivingAfterWLS 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin - March 2010
Below is the opening article from today's 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin. Click the link above to read the Bulletin in its entirety.


Greetings Neighbors!

Can you feel it? I'm on the edge of my seat just knowing and believing that Spring must be right around the corner. Winter for most of the Northern Hemisphere has been long, dark and cold. I'm ready for the vibrant colors of spring, the warmth of the sun and the promise of new beginnings and new life that come with the season. I imagine you are as well.

Recently in a question and answer session I was asked "What is the single most important advice you give to post weight loss surgery patients?" Well, I was certainly caught off guard by this and on the spot I'm not sure I gave the best answer when I said "Make your own health a priority before taking care of anyone else so that when it is time to care for and nurture  others you have the physical and mental strength to do so." I am not original with this advice and it does sound good in a sentence, but how do we do that in the real world of family-work-friends-social-religious-networking commitments?

So, I am taking the opportunity with this 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin to amend my answer and offer something a bit different, although I do know that we do our best  when we are healthy. Knowing this, I suggest we actively pursue an internal peace treaty whereby we separate the medical condition of obesity and/or morbid obesity from our moral character and personal self-worth. In 2010 I wrote an article that explains this better:

"I Am Not Obese. Since kindergarten the word "fat" defined me and I actually thought that was who I was because "You are fat" and "I am fat" were constant phrases in my world. By about age 40 I finally figured out that I am not fat. I have obesity, a disease. Have you heard a heart attack patient say, "I am heart disease" or a leukemia patient say, "I am cancer"? We are not the disease. Heart attacks and leukemia are not a moral failure and neither is obesity. We are not the disease! We have a disease that is part of the whole person that makes us the wonderfully unique and powerful person we are."  Read the full article.

When we disjoint our moral character, our spiritual self, and our self-worth from the medical condition we are fighting with weight loss surgery we are able to pragmatically approach the control and treatment of the condition without making it personal. We are not bad people if we relapse with weight gain  and we are not bad for having this illness in the first place. It just happens to be the cards we were dealt in this life. If you have ever been the parent of a child with an illness you understand the emotional baggage that comes with the news that something is wrong.  But you also know that when you take a knowledgeable and deliberate approach in the management of the problem you are better able to function and do the right things.

So, I suggest we take a clinical approach toward our obesity. management. When we lose weight we put obesity in remission. When we gain weight obesity is in relapse. As intelligent beings we can take an active role in managing our remission by using our experience and the knowledge we glean from others. We can return to the behaviors that worked shortly after surgery to help us lose weight. Behaviors that are not supportive of our health can be considered and replaced. We have opportunities every day to improve our health and enjoy the pleasures good health brings.

Please consider this if you are using the 5 Day Pouch Test to get back on track. Take your knowledge and let it empower you because you are a good and worthy person. You are not your disease. I have met enough of you, my WLS Neighbors ,  to say this with complete conviction. You deserve to be your very best - obesity be damned for getting in the way!

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

You Can Do This!
Kaye

"I believe in you.
You deserve to be healthy.
 You deserve to be kind to yourself.
You deserve to achieve your greatest level of success with weight loss surgery when you harness your inner resources."
--Kaye Bailey
5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual

Link to the Bulletin

Free App for LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood

(by Scoop - LivingAfterWLS Technical Administrator)

If you have an Apple device then we have the app for you.
You can download the app to run any Invision message board, including this Neighborhood. Here is what you do.

Login to your Apple iTunes account and go to this link: IP Board Communities

Download the app. Then select the Neighborhood from the directory and take it from there.
 
Health and Wellness >> LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood



Give it a try. The IPS guys are working with us so we will eventually have a branded app button that matches the neighborhood graphics. Its all a work in progresss but this should get you started.

Sorry Android users, no word on when we are going there.

Description
Easily access IP.Board communities all over the web. Join in the discussion today!
Invision Power Services, Inc. Web SiteIP.Board Communities Support
What's New In Version 1.1.0
IP.Board Communities
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This app is designed for both iPhone and iPad

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* Updated: 08 February 2011
* Current Version: 1.1.0
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* © 2010 Invision Power Services, Inc.

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Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later.
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LivingAfterWLS General Store: Coupon Code HEARTS2011

Coupon Code: HEARTS2011
LivingAfterWLS and Kaye Bailey are pleased you have chosen to make us part of your long-term success with weight loss surgery. We are committed to supporting you with quality products to enhance your life and empower your success.

Shop Now and Save!
Coupon Code: HEARTS2011
SAVE $3 On Orders of $20+
Free Four Rules Magnet with Order!

Sale Ends Monday - Shop Now!

Click to go to Store

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Feed the Carb Monster Soup Mixes

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Supporting your best LivingAfterWLS!

View our Store Guestbook

  "Just want to say how great the customer service is in Kayes store. I ordered several items and one item was missing from my package that got here in 3 days. I sent a message to Kaye and she PERSONALY answered. In two days I had the missing item sent priority shipment. Thanx so much for helping me resolve this issue fast and nice."

--Karen K.,  New Mexico 

Coupon Code: HEARTS2011

Cottage Cheese Crab Salad

This salad is quick and delicious. There are two ingredients my husband refuses to eat: cottage cheese and sour cream. Funny thing, he ate two servings of this salad saying it was 5-Star top-notch delicious! HA!! I'll never tell.

I used plum tomatoes, the only fresh fruit I could find this time of year. The seeds and membrane were bitter so I seeded them and sprinkled a pinch of sugar on the inside of each one to bring out the natural flavor. Aside from that I made this as directed. Give it a try - you will LOVE it! Would make a great lunchbox meal and it works for Day 3 of the 5 Day Pouch Test.

Ingredients:
1/2 c. low-fat cottage cheese
1/4 c. light sour cream
8 oz. imitation crab, pulled into chunks
1 tsp. Dijon-style mustard
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 c. green onions, minced
1/4 c. celery, minced
tomato wedges and lettuce leaves

Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, mustard, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in the crab, onions, and celery. To serve buffet style, line a large serving tray with lettuce leaves and surround the edge with tomato wedges. Spoon the salad in the center. This is best covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated. To serve single servings, place one lettuce leaf in the center of a dessert plate, spoon 1/6 of the salad in the center and place two tomato wedges on the side. Serves 6. Celadon's note: This is so quick and easy and a beautiful presentation. When I feel especially extravagant, I use real crab.

Note: Makes 6 servings, each serving (without the lettuce and tomato wedges) provides: 62 calories; 1g fat; 412mg sodium; 5g carbs; 7g protein.

The Joy of Gelatin

This year we introduced a new feature in our Cooking with Kaye weekly newsletter titled "All in the Family." The focus is preparing family friendly meals that support our high protein, complex-carbohydrate diet so that we can enjoy meals together eating the same things. We seek to find a way for the entire family to eat delicious, affordable meals that are mindful of our diverse health requirements. Our families are our first line of support, so uniting at mealtime is a good a logical step in working for better health for all of  us.
 
Our first "All in the Family" free electronic newsletter was published on January 13, 2011. You can view the entire newsletter her: Cooking with Kaye - Joy of Gelatin

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Joy of Gelatin
"For this first "All in the Family" I selected gelatin as my subject food because it is beloved by many, easy to make, affordable to serve, and nutritionally supportive of not just a person recovering from obesity, but also for growing children. And I've never seen anyone eat Jell-O with a frowning face!  A serving of Jell-O alone costs about .25 cents (store brands are even less). Adding fruit, vegetables or a dairy topping will increase the cost a bit, but for hardly more than a dollar a serving Jell-O is a great value for everyday snacking or desserts.

Gelatin has a long shelf life so I keep on hand a variety of Jell-O brand gelatin dessert mixes; sugar free and original with sugar. I also keep on hand Knox Gelatine, original unflavored. Gelatin side dishes, salads, and desserts can be prepared quickly at the beginning of the meal preparation and in most cases by serving time the gelatin has set and is ready to be served, making them doable on busy weeknights or last minute efforts to make a meal special. I have learned that individual servings made in plastic disposable cups set up quickly and provide perfect portion sizes while giving the feeling of something special just for me to whomever enjoys the treat.

"Gelatin is full of tricks," wrote Irma S. Rombauer in her successful cookbook Joy of Cooking over 75 years ago. She says, "It can turn liquids into solids to produce gala dessert and salad molds. It makes sophisticated meringues and mousses, gives a smoother texture to frozen desserts, cheesecakes, chiffon pies, jellies, and cold soups, and it thickens cold sauces and glazes."

Jell-O just for WLS me. When I make Jell-O for my daily planned snacks I use one package of sugar free Jell-O (4 serving size) and one envelope Knox Gelatine, original unflavored. Following package directions I dissolve the sugar free Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water; set aside. In the bowl I will set and store the Jell-O I put 1 cup of cold fruit juice or cold leftover tea and sprinkle the Knox Gelatine on top to soften; about 1 minute. Then I stir in the dissolved hot Jell-O and stir until everything is dissolved and mixed well. At this time I may add fresh chopped fruit or whisk-in some low-fat yogurt: whatever is on hand and chilled. The Knox Gelatine compensates for extra moisture from added ingredients and guarantees the salad will set (technically, there is enough gelatin to "bloom" or set 4 cups of liquid). It also provides about 2g more protein per serving, and this is easily digested protein. On most days this sets within an hour and is ready to enjoy!

This method makes for a firmer gelatin treat than the method directed on the package. According to Rombauer in Joy of Cooking, "Finished gelatin should be quivery, not rigid, when jostled." My method takes it beyond quivery, but not so rubbery that it becomes unpleasant. For me the denser snack has a bit more staying power than a lighter more quivery Jell-O. Remember, not only do we want to make a smart food selection when we snack, we want the feeling of satiation and pleasure to stay with us until the next mealtime. A Jell-O snack is also an easy snack to enjoy while following liquid restrictions. No liquids 30 minutes before or after snack, no liquids with snack. Following that rule keeps your Jell-O from becoming a slider food as well.

More Recipes & Ideas:
LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood Kitchen

Find A Friend in the Neighborhood

 Find a Friend in the Neighborhood

.

The LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood is your compassion-driven online social space for sharing your weight loss surgery and learning about others with weight loss surgery. We welcome Neighbors with any surgical procedure (or not) and at any stage in their weight management. This is our safe haven circle of friends. Below are quick links to some great destinations in the Neighborhood:

5 Day Pouch Test Forum

5DPT: Ask a Question

Secrets of Day 6 and Beyond

Understanding Ketosis in the Weight Loss Surgery High Protein Diet

Often when we hear about a diet that puts the body in a state of ketosis we are fearful having heard that ketosis is a potentially dangerous imbalance of blood glucose, the result of a low carbohydrate, high fat high protein diet. Ketosis results when the body switches from burning glucose for energy to burning ketones for energy. Glucose comes from carbohydrates which are the bodys first choice to metabolize for energy. Ketones are used for energy when there is not enough glucose (from carbohydrates) present in the bloodstream to use for energy.

Clinically stated, "Ketosis is a condition in which levels of ketones (ketone bodies) in the blood are elevated. Ketones are formed when glycogen stores in the liver have run out. The ketones are used for energy. Ketones are small carbon fragments that are fuel created by the breakdown of fat stores. Ketosis is potentially a serious condition if keytone levels go too high."

Most patients of bariatric surgery are instructed to follow a high protein, low carbohydrate diet with a modest amount of fat. The body only needs proteins and fats for building and repairing tissue and cells, carbohydrates do not play a part in this metabolic function. Additionally, the body can get all its energy from fats and proteins. A ketogenic diet, which was first developed in the early 1900s, is a high-fat and low-carbohydrate diet. When following a ketogenic diet the body will switch from being a carb-burning machine to a fat-burning machine. As a result weight is lost.

Perhaps the best known ketonic diet is the Atkins plan in which ketosis is deliberately achieved by way of high fat high protein and low carbohydrate diet. According to the Atkins program proper monitoring via urine tests will keep ketosis within safe limits and the dieter can reach an ideal body weight without suffering unbearable hunger. Most weight loss surgery patients are discouraged from following an Atkins-type diet because of the high fat content. Surgery reduces the amount of gastric juice available for digestion and many patients do not tolerate high fat foods.

Speaking to the general population (not necessarily weight loss surgery patients) experts are divided regarding the health risk versus benefit of a ketogenic diet. Some experts say it is dangerous because if keytone levels are not properly monitored there may be a strain on the kidneys, and a significant loss of calcium excreted through urine may cause kidney stones or osteoporosis. Proponents of a ketogenic diet cite human evolution in their argument saying during most of the time that humans have existed we have been a hunter-gatherer species living in a ketogenic state for extended periods. Documented studies suggest that after a 2 to 4 week period of adaptation human physical endurance is not affected by ketosis. Some studies go so far to suggest that humans do not necessarily need a high carbohydrate intake in order to replace depleted glycogen stores for energy.

Patients of weight loss surgery should work closely with their bariatric center to develop a diet and lifestyle program specific to their condition of obesity and recovery. While many consider the primary goal of weight loss surgery to be weight loss to improve physical appearance, the higher goal is improved health, energy and longevity.

Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved

2011 Four Rules Refresher Course

In the spirit of the New Year we are taking a closer look at the Four Rules - starting with Rule #1 Protein First. In short - Protein First means it should be the first nutrient we eat at any meal and it should account for the highest percentage of nutrients eaten over fat, carbohydrates and alcohol. (More detail on this in the articles below)

Before surgery most of us were taught the Four Rules we must follow in order to achieve the best results with weight loss surgery - any procedure. Those rules (with minor variations from one bariatric surgeon to the next) are:
    * Protein First
    * Lots of Water
    * No Snacking
    * Daily Exercise

What I didn't fully understand at the time of surgery was the duration of these rules.

The Four Rules are for life.

In order to maintain weight loss and keep the obesity from which we suffer in remission we must follow these rules for life. When we meet patients who have maintained a healthy body weight for several years with weight loss surgery we learn that in most cases they live by the Four Rules.

If it has been a while since you have given consideration to the Four Rules I invite you today to spend a little time refreshing your knowledge and enthusiasm about Protein First. Actually, this is my favorite rule because it means good food without the guilt! Link to the articles of interest and take a look at some of our great WLS recipes. There is something for everyone as we get excited again about the Four Rules!

Happy 2011 - We are all in this together!

Kaye


Our refresher course of the Four Rules has been published in the LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest Newsletters -- You can subscribe to our free newsletters here:

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The newsletters are archived for your convenience to review any time you need a little "Right-I remember That" reminder so you can continue to work with your weight loss surgery for the best of health and weight management. Follow the links below:

Rule #1 - Protein First
LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest
The Four Rules: #1 is Protein First
Why it works and How to get Enough
January 20, 2011

Feature Articles:
--High Protein Diet Promotes Fat Loss
--Protein First Recipes
--Do-It-Yourself Vegetarian Burgers
--Flavor Your High Protein Diet with Condiments

Rule #2 - Lots of Water
LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest
The Four Rules: #2 Drink Lots of Water
Understanding & Accomplishing Water Intake
Without Floating Away!
February 2, 2011

Featured Articles:
--Restrict Liquids, Drink Lots of Water - HUH?
--Water Terms Defined
--After WLS: Pass the Water, Hold the Ice

Rule #3 -- No Snacking
LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest
The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking  
When snacking hurts; When snacking helps
February 9, 2011

Featured Articles:
--No Snacking. It is the rule that works.
--Slider Foods Lead to Weight Gain for Some
--How to Eat Popcorn After WLS
--What about Milk and Cookies?

Rule #4 -- Daily Exercise
LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest
The Four Rules: #4 Daily Exercise  
Most of Us Struggle with This One
February 18, 2011

Featured Articles:
--For Weight Loss & Weight Management We Must Exercise
--2-Week Walking Program
--How to Increase the Activities of Daily Living
--Apples & Exercise Promote Body Fat Loss

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I'm Freezing! Why are we so cold after weight loss?

Happy Groundhog Day everyone! Temperatures across North America today are ridiculously cold! Are you staying warm? After significant weight loss many of us struggle with body temperature regulation and truly suffer when cold weather hits. There are some very good biological reasons for this - take a look:


I'm Freezing! Why are we so cold after weight loss?
Body temperature is the result of your body generating and radiating heat. The body is adept at keeping its temperature within a narrow range even though ambient air conditions vary. A normal body temperature is 98.6°F. It is common during the period of rapid weight loss for bariatric patients to feel cold or chilled, even when their temperature reads normal.

People who experience the massive weight loss associated with weight loss surgery experience feeling cold for two reasons: loss of insulation and less energy generation.

Fat is a highly efficient insulator. Consider animals native to cold climates: for example sea lions and polar bears. They are loaded with insulation and thrive in cold climates. When gastric bypass patients follow the rules: eating protein and exercising, the weight lost can only come from fat or stored energy. In effect you are losing your insulation. Less insulation increases the likelihood that you will feel cold.

The second reason for feeling chilled is that the metabolic cell processes are not working as hard as when you were heavier; it takes fewer calories and less energy to maintain and move a smaller body. Think about using an electric mixer: if you are whipping egg whites for a meringue the mixer will do this task effortlessly. But use the same mixer to knead bread dough and it will become warm to the touch, it is working harder because it is moving more mass. The same thing happens with your body; the more mass it must move, the harder it works. As a result more heat is generated.

The body has two well-tuned mechanisms for regulating body temperature: sweating and shivering. What overweight person hasn't been embarrassed by a sticky bout of sweating at the most inappropriate time? Sweating is a mechanism for cooling your body when it becomes too hot inside. The body rids itself of excess heat by expanding the blood vessels in the skin so the heat may be carried to the surface. When this energy or heat in the form of sweat reaches the skin's surface it evaporates and helps cool the body.

Gastric bypass patients become more familiar with the second temperature regulator, shivering, as they lose weight. When you are too cold your blood vessels will contract reducing blood flow to the skin. The body responds by shivering which creates extra muscle activity to help generate more heat. If you allow your body to shiver it will begin to feel warmer. But this is also a good clue that it's time to put on a sweater or turn up the heat. I think most weight loss patients will happily wear a sweater - a sweater is much easier to shed than that insulation we've worked so hard to lose!

Most weight loss patients report that their body temperature regulates after their weight is stabilized, usually eighteen to twenty-four months after surgery. Keep in mind your body is rapidly losing weight and the rest of your body's functions are caught off guard when this weight loss begins. The body's thermostat needs time to catch up to the weight loss, and it will. Patients who incorporate exercise in their weight loss program experience less chilling than patients who do not exercise.

Copyright © 2005 Kaye Bailey - All Rights Reserved

Article Source:  I'm Freezing! Why Gastric Bypass Causes Patients to be Cold

Getting Party Ready with Your WLS Tool

I wrote this article for the 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin published 12/06/2010. For anyone with weight loss surgery who is preparing for a holiday party the advice is timely. I think it defines so well what many of us say our new objective is after weight loss surgery --- to enjoy LIVING!

Not so good conventional advice...

Eat a small meal before the party I'm sure you are familiar with this holiday tip - eat a small meal before the party so you do not overeat at the party. Since all of our WLS meals are small this is ineffective for us - it just means we double-up on small meals that day. What works better is to have an all-protein meal earlier in the day, before the party. For example, if the party is at 7pm have an all-protein lunch of grilled chicken breast at 4pm; about 3 ounces of broiled boneless chicken breast gives you 110 calories (energy) and 25 grams of protein with only 2 grams of fat. This is important because it temporarily raises your metabolism by making your body work harder to digest the food. Protein also satiates appetite for a longer time than carbohydrates. In addition, with protein you have not caused a drop or spike to your blood glucose levels which for many triggers snacky carbohydrate cravings. On a more delicate note, clean lean protein is unlikely to cause digestive distress such as uncomfortable bloating or gas - two things we do not want to wear to the party! 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! After giving your body the delicious protein-only lunch allow it time to digest the nutrients before partaking of liquids. A good hour following eating is beneficial to allow your body adequate time to metabolize the fuel you have just provided it. After digestion hydrate your body with a nutrient enhanced beverage. This could be herbal tea or iced water with a squeeze of fresh citrus juice. Perhaps you prefer an energy booster such as Emergen-C (my favorite). Avoid beverages sweetened with sugar alcohols because they are prone to cause uncomfortable gas and bloating. OK! You've done great getting your body ready for an evening out celebrating the holidays. But do you realize what else has occurred by doing these simple things? You have created a storm of empowerment where anything is possible! Think about it. Instead of spending the day of the party making poor dietary choices for which you are feeling self-critical, you have done the right thing! You have been true to yourself and your health! Nothing is impossible for you on this day! So go that party and shine like a diamond. Accept the compliments you receive - relish in your new life - Celebrate! This is your moment - You Have Arrived!

Better Than Green Bean Casserole

A couple of years ago I came across this recipe in Vegetarian Times and served it for Thanksgiving in place of traditional green bean casserole - you know the one with the canned soup and canned fried onions. This dish is so delicious and such a crowd pleaser I have been making it ever since. Here is the recipe direct from Vegetarian Times -- I hope it finds a way to your holiday table this year!

Green Beans with Walnuts and Shallot Crisps

Shallot crisps are the star attraction here and can be made in advance. In a tightly sealed jar, they will keep at room temperature for 2 weeks—but you’d better hide the jar.

 Vegetarian Times Issue: November 1, 2008   p.71   —   Member Rating:

Ingredient List

Serves 8

Shallot Crisps

• 5 large shallots (½ lb.), peeled and sliced into thin rings
• ½ cup vegetable oil

Green Beans

• 2 lb. green beans, trimmed
• 3 Tbs. apple cider vinegar
• 3 Tbs. Dijon mustard
• 3 Tbs. vegetable oil
• 3 Tbs. maple syrup
• 1 cup toasted chopped walnuts (½ lb.)

Directions

1. To make Shallot Crisps: Spread shallot rings on paper towel, sprinkle with salt, and cover with another paper towel. Let stand 10 minutes. Blot excess moisture from shallots.
2. Heat oil in small saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots, and fry
2 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring frequently.
3. Pour shallots and oil through fine mesh strainer, or remove shallots with slotted spoon. Spread shallots on paper towels to drain and cool. Discard oil. Store shallots in jar, if desired.
4. To make Green Beans: Cook beans
in large pot of boiling salted water 5 to 8 minutes, or until just tender. Drain. Whisk together vinegar, mustard, oil, and maple syrup in serving bowl. Add green beans, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Top with Shallot Crisps and chopped walnuts, and serve.

Nutritional Information

Per : Calories: 253, Protein: 5g, Total fat: 18g, Saturated fat: 1.5g, Carbs: 22g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 291mg, Fiber: 5g, Sugars: 9g

2010 Limited Edition Classic Poultry Blend Seasoning - ON Sale Now!

LivingAfterWLS General Store
The low-sodium herb blend is shown here in the decorative tin. The 2-ounce container (1/2 cup volume) is plenty to flavor your favorite autumn roast poultry, pork and vegetables throughout the cold winter months and will stay fresh and flavorful stored in the functional reusable tin. Tin measures 4-1/4"x 2-3/4" x 1-1/4" deep. Spice blend is delivered in tin tightly preserved in resealable plastic bag for optimum freshness.

"Smells like Thanksgiving, and stuffing, and home. Delicious. "
Kaye's husband Jim


Suggested Price: $10.40
Your Value Price: $8.55 - Save $1.85


LivingAfterWLS General Store
Our Thanks to You
Coupon Code: THANKS2010
Save $3.00 Off Order of $20 or More!!
November 15-30, 2010

Holiday Pies: What Every Weight Loss Surgery Patient Should Know

By Kaye Bailey

We all know we shouldn't reach for the holiday pie after Weight Loss Surgery (WLS) - it's against the rules and the potential to make us sick is very high. If that's not enough to motivate restraint how about considering the nutrient analysis of some favorite American pies. Take a look and see if it is really worth it to taste that full-fat, full-sugar dessert:

(Based on a 1/8 slice of the pie)
Pumpkin Pie: 461 calories, 21 grams fat, 9 grams protein and 60 grams carbs

Pecan Pie: 436 calories, 17.2 grams fat, 3 grams protein and 67 grams carbs.

Apple, Blueberry or Cherry: 340 Calories, 16 grams fat, 3 grams protein, 46 grams carbs.

Coconut Cream Pie: 485 Calories, 25 grams fat, 6 grams protein, 48 grams carbs.

Chocolate Cream Pie: 401 calories, 21 grams fat, 6 grams protein, 50 grams carbs.

Top that slice o'pie with real whipped cream - add another 104 calories, 11 grams fat, 41 grams cholesterol and a gram each of protein and carbs.

I'm laying down my pie fork right now! It's just not worth a taste of pie to risk being sick, uncomfortable or worse weight gain. (I know - you can't gain weight with one taste of pie - but I have never been able to restrain myself to one taste. What about you?)

LivingAfterWLS Recipe Collection: Desserts

Still don't want to go without pie this holiday season? Here are two sugarless and relatively safe dessert recipes for celebrating LivingAfterWLS style. Indulge with caution - though they do not contain sugar they are sweetened with artificial sweetener and contain high amounts of fat, calories and carbs.

Pumpkin Pie
Ingredients:
Pastry for single-crust 9-inch pie
1 can (16 ounces) pumpkin
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated skim milk
3 eggs
5-1/2 teaspoons Equal® for Recipes
 or 18 packets Equal® sweetener
 or 3/4 cup Equal® Spoonful(TM)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:
Roll pastry on floured surface into circle 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie pan. Ease into pan; trim and flute edge.

Beat pumpkin, evaporated milk and eggs in medium bowl; beat in remaining ingredients. Pour into pastry shell. Bake in preheated 425°F oven 15 minutes; reduce heat to 350°F and bake until knife inserted near center comes out clean, about 40 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

Nutrition (1/8 slice of pie): 175 calories; 8 grams protein; 22 grams carbs; 7 grams fat


Chocolate Cream Pie
 Ingredients:
Pastry for single-crust 9-inch pie
1/3 cup cornstarch
1/4 to 1/3 cup European or Dutch-process cocoa
10-3/4 teaspoons Equal® for Recipes
or 36 packets Equal® sweetener
or 1-1/2 cups Equal® Spoonful(TM)
1/8 teaspoon salt
3 cups skim milk
2 eggs
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 tablespoons thawed frozen light whipped topping

Equal® sweetener can be substituted with other sweetener products. Nutrition contents might be different from those listed below.

Directions:
Roll pastry on lightly floured surface into circle 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie pan. Ease pastry into pan; trim and flute edge. Pierce bottom and side of pastry with fork. Bake in preheated 425oF oven until crust is browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

Combine cornstarch, cocoa, Equal® and salt in medium saucepan; stir in milk. Heat to boiling over medium-high heat, whisking constantly. Boil until thickened, about 1 minute.

Beat eggs and egg whites in small bowl; whisk about 1 cup chocolate mixture into eggs. Whisk egg mixture into chocolate mixture in saucepan. Cook over very low heat, whisking constantly, 30 to 60 seconds. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.

Spread hot filling in baked crust; refrigerate until chilled and set, about 6 hours. Cut into wedges and place on serving plates; garnish each serving with dollop of whipped topping, if desired.

Nutrition (1/8 slice of pie): 188 calories; 7 grams protein; 25 grams carbs; 7 grams fat.


Kaye Bailey © 2005 - All Rights Reserved

Emergency Preparedness For WLS Patients

It looks like many of us in North America are about to face some pretty intense winter weather. In fact, there are numerous winter storm and blizzard warnings posted from the Pacific Northwest clear across the nation to New England. Now is a good time to make sure we are WLS-ready in the event we find ourselves without transportation, heat, and/or power. I'm checking my emergency rations this morning and found this old article to be a useful prompt in reminding me what I need to have on hand. Sometimes we adapt so well to our weight loss surgery needs we forget that we are "special needs" people. So take a look and please be safe and sound as Old Man Winter howls all around!  

Emergency Preparedness For Weight Loss Surgery Patients

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.

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
Cell phone with chargers

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.

Article Source: Emergency Preparedness For Weight Loss Surgery Patients

You Have Arrived Seasonings - Holiday Blends!

NEW!
Limited Edition ---
2010 Seasoning Blend Collection
in Decorative Keepsake Tins
Three Blends:

Classic Poultry Sweet Life Spice Mulling Spice You loved our 2009 Limited Edition Blend - Once again we are pleased to introduce a collection of three limited edition seasonal blends to support your healthy weight loss surgery Living. Enhance your holiday cooking & share with a friend. Great Gift Idea! Seasonal Blend Gift Set 2010 Seasoning Blend Gift Set includes 2-ounces each: Sweet Life Spice, Classic Poultry Blend and Mulling Spice. The tins are nested in quality tissue accented with decorative cinnamon sticks tied with all natural raffia. Each tin measures 4-1/4"x 2-3/4" x 1-1/4" deep. Shown below: Our beautiful Gift Set is the best value, priced to save you 20% off the suggested retail price. Season your Holidays with this quality set of spices! You will enjoy the high quality goodness of the You Have Arrived seasoning blends knowing you are partaking of all natural ingredients, no MSG, phosphates or fillers. After everything you have done to become a healthier you don't you deserve the best? Treat yourself and a friend too. A gift that will be enjoyed through the season! Read descriptions below for each seasoning blend. Suggested Price: $30.70 Your Value Price: $24.60 -- Save 20% Free recipe flyer with each gift set. BUY NOW - Limited Supply

The Feasting Season - How to Cope

Little Reminders that Make a BIG Difference

Fasten Your WLS Safety Belt Even if you are not planning to do the 5 Day Pouch Test this week or any time soon there are things we can learn from it that help keep us on track, particularly during the feasting season. Think of it this way: When you get in your automobile to drive someplace a little reminder light illuminates on the dashboard to remind you to fasten your seat belt. Now, you do not say to the car, "Today I do not plan to get in an accident so it is not necessary for me to wear the safety belt." No. What you do is put on the seat belt and make certain it is latched securely. You protect your safety even though you have no intention of being in an accident. By the same token we can take safety precautions to protect our WLS health even though we have no intention of coming in harms way. Think of the following actions as buckling your WLS safety belt, keeping you securely in place in the event of an accident: Daily Vitamin Supplements: It is proven that our immunity weakens this time of year due to weather and stress. Protect your immunity by following the vitamin supplementation program prescribed by your bariatric center, nutritionist or general practitioner. Make this a priority. This is not selfish. In order for you to be healthy enough to take care of the commitments and obligations in your life you must first take care of your nutritional health. Take your vitamins. Consult your doctor if you are uncertain about what vitamins and minerals you should be supplementing in your diet. Neighborhood Conversations: Diet, Nutrition, Supplements Splurge Wisely: I don't think it is fair or reasonable to expect that once we have weight loss surgery we will never enjoy a food splurge again. But what I do know is that as I gain WLS maturity I learn to splurge more wisely when opportunity presents itself. For example, I am a recovering macaroni salad lover. In fact I dare say a goodly portion of my former thunder thighs may very well have been macaroni salad incarnated! But the fact is, macaroni salad is not that good. Macaroni salad is truly not splurge-worthy. These days I am happy to overlook the macaroni salad in favor of a finer culinary experience such as baked brie and poached pears or a vine ripened strawberry dipped in dark chocolate. Put a value on your splurge and you can be certain to enjoy it all that much more. Looking for Splurge-Worthy Recipe? Try Cheesecake Dainties Beware: Nobody Can Eat Just One Chip! A popular potato chip slogan claims "nobody can eat just one" and it is one of the greatest truths in advertising. Soft salty carbohydrate snacks are addictive and lead to weight gain before bariatric surgery and sadly, many have gained weight after bariatric surgery from eating soft salty processed carbohydrates like potato chips. After surgery soft carbs are considered slider food because they move quickly through the small surgical pouch and satiation never occurs when eating them. In addition, the saltiness prompts us to drink liquid with them further creating slurry and washing them through to be absorbed and converted for fat storage by the body. Often we eat slider foods in unchecked portion size and the very nature of the surgical pouch is defeated. While it may seem extreme please consider complete abstinence from salty soft carb snacks rather than having just a few and then mustering the will-power to stop eating. Nobody has ever told me they felt bad after a party at which they ignored the chip bowl, but hundreds of people have confided how low they felt when they could not keep their hands out of the chips. You already know what chips taste like. Nothing there to see. Move along. Must Read: Three Red Flag Warnings Leading to Weight Gain   Kindness Counts. In an age of anger and discord small acts of kindness go a long way in making the world a brighter place. Speaking in generalities people recovering from morbid obesity tend to be generous and compassionate to others. I  often witness you serving commiseration from a seemingly bottomless pot of kindness. Today I suggest you serve yourself first and enjoy the pleasure of your own kindness. You are a good and worthy person deserving of your own generosity. Enjoy it. Take a break from the self-judgment that seems to prevail and celebrate the good and valued person that you are. Be kind to yourself today. Review: 5 Day Pouch Test Download 5 Day Pouch Test Journal