Three Red Flag Warnings Leading to Weight Gain After Bariatric Surgery
Before undergoing bariatric surgery for weight loss it is hard to imagine that we could possibly ever become one of "those people" who gain weight after losing it with the help of surgery. Sadly, at some point most patients who have gastric surgery as their last hope for weight loss eventually regain some weight back. It can happen quickly and without fanfare. Link here to learn about three red flags to watch for that may lead to weight regain:
Three Benefits of Checklists in Successful Weight Management With Weight Loss Surgery
People who undergo surgery for weight loss are often tempted to simply let the surgery do the work for weight loss without making an effort to adapt new healthier diet and fitness habits. But the surgical bariatric patients who wish to achieve weight loss and maintain a healthy weight for years to come will use the surgery as an opportunity to form new habits creating a new healthier way of life. Read full article
A Weight Loss Surgery Journal Marks Progress and Healing
We have heard it all our dieting life: "keep a food journal, it will keep you accountable for what you eat." That advice always failed me, the best I could ever keep a food journal was through breakfast, I did not want to leave written evidence of my eating behavior. But there is one time in my life I kept a journal, words and feelings scribed on the page. Read more:
Make Grilled Fish a Healthy Part of Your Weight Loss Surgery Diet
Since weight loss surgery gives us a second chance of leading healthy lives it behooves us to pay attention to what we eat and incorporate things in our limited diet that can aid our health and longevity. Fortunately for us one of the healthiest things we can eat is also weight loss surgery friendly: Fish. Learn more.
Grilled Lamb With Provence Herbs and Summer Vegetables
For people following a high protein diet, such as weight loss surgery patients, grilled lamb is an excellent protein source that is low in fat and rich in minerals and nutrients. Marinating the lamb early in the day before grilling yields a flavorful and savory protein the whole family can enjoy. Article & Recipe Here
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Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Understanding Ketosis in the WLS Diet
By Kaye Bailey
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
Article Source: 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
Article Source: Understanding Ketosis in the Weight Loss Surgery High Protein Diet
Monday, July 19, 2010
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July 15-20, 2010
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Books by Kaye Bailey
Seasoning Blends for WLS Patients
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5 Day Pouch Test: A Thoughtful Review
5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual
She writes, "Now in just 5 short days (today being my last) I've rediscovered a healthy (and very tasty) way to eat that will encourage weight loss. I have a plan to carry on with that includes daily exercise, a style of eating to follow and a community (this beautiful Neighborhood here online) that I can regularly participate in that will help me see the results of the 5dpt today and for many days to follow."
Like many of us who are familiar with moments of self-doubt, Tiff was sure she was the one that the 5 Day Pouch Test wouldn't work for. In fact, she was fairly certain more surgery was needed to "fix" her gastric pouch. She shared with us, ""I was hoping that this 5DPT would help me get centered again and focus in on my post op WLS lifestyle, yet I was skeptical that it would - I felt as though I'd be the one person that couldn't do it and would fail to see positive results. Not so!!! I have gained far more clarity and inspiration as well as education from this test and I am so very glad with the outcome."
If you are struggling with your weight loss surgery tool, maybe weight gain, or a lasting plateau do not be alone. Join us in the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood. This is your safe haven community where we understand and empower one another, one day at a time. Join us: It's always a beautiful day in the Neighborhood.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Do Not Let Dumping Syndrome Ruin Your Summer Celebration
By Kaye Bailey
Summer is a time to celebrate warm weather, sunshine, good friends and good times - often with food and drink. But for people with weight loss surgery celebrations bring the potential for a dietary crisis called dumping syndrome that has the potential to ruin a day of good old fashioned summer time fun.
Gastric Dumping Syndrome, or rapid gastric emptying, is a condition where partially digested food bypasses the stomach too rapidly and enters the small intestine. This causes the pancreas to release excessive amounts of insulin into the bloodstream and symptoms of hypoglycemia occur. Dumping Syndrome is most commonly associated with malabsorptive gastric surgery, specifically gastric bypass surgery. Patients will experience the symptoms of dumping syndrome immediately after eating or within three hours of eating. The symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, profuse sweating followed by chills, dizziness and fatigue. When insulin levels return to normal symptoms subside. Many patients experiencing dumping syndrome find comfort in lying down or sipping fortified water or energy drinks served at warm temperature.
Clearly an episode of dumping syndrome will disrupt any celebration and most weight loss surgery patients will benefit from taking precautions to avoid such an occurrence. Here are four basic dietary and lifestyle guidelines to follow that will help prevent a dumping episode from ruining your summer celebration:
Hydration. Drinking lots of water is the second sacred rule of weight loss surgery. This is of keen importance during the hot summer months when bodies release more fluid through perspiration thus becoming susceptible to dehydration. On warm days filled with outdoor activity be mindful to sip water throughout the day. As a guideline drink one ounce of water for every two pounds of body weight to ensure proper hydration. Vitamin fortified water or non-calorie sports drinks fortified to balance electrolytes may be enjoyed as well to prevent hydration. The symptoms of dehydration often feel like mild dumping syndrome, and some weight loss surgery patients report a higher likelihood of dumping syndrome when they are not properly hydrated.
Protein First. It is particularly important to follow the first rule of weight loss surgery, "Protein First" when partaking from an array of party foods including barbecue, picnic salads and sides, and bountiful desserts. Eating protein first will buffer foods that may potentially cause a dumping episode. Be wary of barbecue sauces that may be high in sugar or breaded and fried protein which is also known to cause dumping. If fried chicken is the only protein offered remove and discard the skin and breading and enjoy the meat without it. Remember to eat two bites of protein to every one bite of complex carbohydrate. When taking small bites of protein three forks will measure about one ounce of protein. The tight feeling in the gastric surgical pouch is a sign of fullness and the signal to stop eating. Avoid discomfort by following this signal and cease eating.
Taste Wisely. Celebrations are often a showcase for friends and relations to share their best dishes including gorgeous calorie and fat laden desserts. Who has not been tempted by the display of outrageous desserts at the annual family reunion? For the weight loss surgery patient unchecked enjoyment of such foods is likely to cause dumping syndrome in the short term and, in the worst case, weight gain in the long run. Patients can find a safe place in simply tasting one or two select desserts without imminent fear of dumping if they have stayed hydrated throughout the day and if they have eating a reasonable amount of lean protein prior to sweet indulgence. One or two bites of a sweet dessert should satisfy the palate and the persistent requests of a beloved relative who urges, "Come on, one little piece of my deluxe super duper chocolate mess is not going to hurt you."
Contribute Good Food. When the occasion allows take the opportunity to provide a weight loss surgery friendly side dish or dessert that you can safely enjoy and others may enjoy as well. It is a great time to demonstrate that healthy can be delicious and attractive. Present salads or side dishes featuring fresh seasonal ingredients and homemade dressings made of pure ingredients that are low in fat and sugar. Prepare sugar-free desserts or snacks following recipes that use popular sugar substitutes which, when enjoyed in moderation, do not cause dumping syndrome. Sugar free pudding and gelatin dishes also fare well at any potluck summer celebration. When a weight loss surgery patient provides safe food for a potluck meal they decrease the temptation to eat foods that are likely to cause dumping syndrome and ruin an otherwise fabulous summer celebration.
Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved
Article Source: Weight Loss Surgery Patients - Do Not Let Dumping Syndrome Ruin Your Summer Celebration
Summer is a time to celebrate warm weather, sunshine, good friends and good times - often with food and drink. But for people with weight loss surgery celebrations bring the potential for a dietary crisis called dumping syndrome that has the potential to ruin a day of good old fashioned summer time fun.
Gastric Dumping Syndrome, or rapid gastric emptying, is a condition where partially digested food bypasses the stomach too rapidly and enters the small intestine. This causes the pancreas to release excessive amounts of insulin into the bloodstream and symptoms of hypoglycemia occur. Dumping Syndrome is most commonly associated with malabsorptive gastric surgery, specifically gastric bypass surgery. Patients will experience the symptoms of dumping syndrome immediately after eating or within three hours of eating. The symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, profuse sweating followed by chills, dizziness and fatigue. When insulin levels return to normal symptoms subside. Many patients experiencing dumping syndrome find comfort in lying down or sipping fortified water or energy drinks served at warm temperature.
Clearly an episode of dumping syndrome will disrupt any celebration and most weight loss surgery patients will benefit from taking precautions to avoid such an occurrence. Here are four basic dietary and lifestyle guidelines to follow that will help prevent a dumping episode from ruining your summer celebration:
Hydration. Drinking lots of water is the second sacred rule of weight loss surgery. This is of keen importance during the hot summer months when bodies release more fluid through perspiration thus becoming susceptible to dehydration. On warm days filled with outdoor activity be mindful to sip water throughout the day. As a guideline drink one ounce of water for every two pounds of body weight to ensure proper hydration. Vitamin fortified water or non-calorie sports drinks fortified to balance electrolytes may be enjoyed as well to prevent hydration. The symptoms of dehydration often feel like mild dumping syndrome, and some weight loss surgery patients report a higher likelihood of dumping syndrome when they are not properly hydrated.
Protein First. It is particularly important to follow the first rule of weight loss surgery, "Protein First" when partaking from an array of party foods including barbecue, picnic salads and sides, and bountiful desserts. Eating protein first will buffer foods that may potentially cause a dumping episode. Be wary of barbecue sauces that may be high in sugar or breaded and fried protein which is also known to cause dumping. If fried chicken is the only protein offered remove and discard the skin and breading and enjoy the meat without it. Remember to eat two bites of protein to every one bite of complex carbohydrate. When taking small bites of protein three forks will measure about one ounce of protein. The tight feeling in the gastric surgical pouch is a sign of fullness and the signal to stop eating. Avoid discomfort by following this signal and cease eating.
Taste Wisely. Celebrations are often a showcase for friends and relations to share their best dishes including gorgeous calorie and fat laden desserts. Who has not been tempted by the display of outrageous desserts at the annual family reunion? For the weight loss surgery patient unchecked enjoyment of such foods is likely to cause dumping syndrome in the short term and, in the worst case, weight gain in the long run. Patients can find a safe place in simply tasting one or two select desserts without imminent fear of dumping if they have stayed hydrated throughout the day and if they have eating a reasonable amount of lean protein prior to sweet indulgence. One or two bites of a sweet dessert should satisfy the palate and the persistent requests of a beloved relative who urges, "Come on, one little piece of my deluxe super duper chocolate mess is not going to hurt you."
Contribute Good Food. When the occasion allows take the opportunity to provide a weight loss surgery friendly side dish or dessert that you can safely enjoy and others may enjoy as well. It is a great time to demonstrate that healthy can be delicious and attractive. Present salads or side dishes featuring fresh seasonal ingredients and homemade dressings made of pure ingredients that are low in fat and sugar. Prepare sugar-free desserts or snacks following recipes that use popular sugar substitutes which, when enjoyed in moderation, do not cause dumping syndrome. Sugar free pudding and gelatin dishes also fare well at any potluck summer celebration. When a weight loss surgery patient provides safe food for a potluck meal they decrease the temptation to eat foods that are likely to cause dumping syndrome and ruin an otherwise fabulous summer celebration.
Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved
Article Source: Weight Loss Surgery Patients - Do Not Let Dumping Syndrome Ruin Your Summer Celebration
Emergency First Aid For Gastric Bypass Dumping Syndrome
By Kaye Bailey
For patients of gastric bypass weight loss surgery an episode of dumping syndrome, or rapid gastric emptying, is physically dramatic and lifestyle disruptive. Prior to surgery patients are instructed to avoid sweet processed carbohydrates, greasy fried food and all simple processed carbohydrates in order to avoid dumping syndrome. Some patients who become lactose intolerant with weight loss surgery (WLS) experience dumping after eating food that contains lactose: dairy sugar. While most patients comply with dietary guidelines it is inevitable that at some point they will experience an dumping syndrome episode.
Gastric Dumping Syndrome occurs when chewed and partially digested food exits the stomach too rapidly and enters the small intestine. This causes the pancreas to release excessive amounts of insulin into the bloodstream and symptoms of hypoglycemia occur. Dumping Syndrome is most commonly associated with malabsorptive gastric surgery, specifically gastric bypass surgery. The symptoms of dumping syndrome will manifest immediately after eating or within three hours of eating. Each person is unique in the gastric dumping response, however, the common symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, profuse sweating followed by chills, dizziness and fatigue. When insulin levels return to normal symptoms subside.
Provide for Physical Comfort: At the onset of a dumping episode the patient may first notice a sense of disorientation or confusion. This indicates the body is beginning to panic over an excess of insulin flooding the bloodstream. One who has suffered from dumping previously will probably feel a sense of despair as they realize the onset of dumping syndrome. Providing for physical comfort at this time is the first response to a dumping episode. Efforts to interrupt or halt the dumping episode are futile. Many patients of gastric bypass familiar with dumping prefer to isolate from others finding a cool place in which to lie down. Symptoms may include vomiting or diarrhea so patients should find a restful place near a bathroom. Many will experience a short period of profuse sweating followed by a longer period of chills: providing a blanket is useful to relieve chills. A patient will reach for the blanket when it is needed, the caregiver should not attempt to cover the patient unless asked to do so. The patient may experience symptoms of sensory disorder including extreme and abnormal sensitivity light, sound, and touch. These are transient symptoms and many patients find relief when lights are dimmed and they are resting in a reduced-noise environment. Many patients say they prefer not to be comforted by touch from their caregiver because of acute sensitivity to touch during the dumping event.
Hydration and Electrolyte Beverages: Gastric bypass patients who are suffering from dumping syndrome may have been mildly dehydrated prior to the dumping episode. It is important to return the body to a hydrated state by sipping room temperature water or electrolyte fortified sports beverages. Patients should be discouraged from partaking of sugar sweetened beverages or juice in an effort to correct the insulin imbalance. The body is already in a reactionary and corrective state to the insulin surge and efforts to speed-up the correction process are seldom successful.
Seek Emergency Care: Patients should seek emergency medical care when the symptoms of dumping syndrome last for an extended period of time. If a patient loses consciousness immediately seek emergency medical care and provide details for the patient including the bariatric procedure, history of diabetes or hypoglycemia, and an account of food intake prior to the dumping episode.
Not all weight loss surgery patients experience dumping syndrome. It most commonly occurs in patients of malabsorptive procedures, specifically gastric bypass. Patients of adjustable gastric banding (lap-band) and gastric sleeve are not known to have dumping syndrome. Following an episode of dumping patients should consult their bariatric center to identify the cause of the event and make a plan to avoid episodes in the future.
Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved
Kaye Bailey is an internationally recognized writer, speaker and weight loss surgery advocate. She is the author of the highly successful weight loss surgery back to basics plan: 5 Day Pouch Test and the 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual. Her follow-up book, Day 6: Beyond the 5 Day Pouch Test, was published in December 2009. It provides guidance for long-term weight and health management with all bariatric surgical procedures. Ms. Bailey is known for her powerful "You can do this!" manner and her belief in the power of personal responsibility. She is the founder of LivingAfterWLS, LLC parent company to the LivingAfterWLS.com and 5daypouchtest.com websites. Supporting both websites is the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood, an online compassion-driven community for weight loss surgery, gastric bypass and gastric banding patients.
LivingAfterWLS
5DayPouchTest
Article Source: Emergency First Aid For Gastric Bypass Dumping Syndrome
For patients of gastric bypass weight loss surgery an episode of dumping syndrome, or rapid gastric emptying, is physically dramatic and lifestyle disruptive. Prior to surgery patients are instructed to avoid sweet processed carbohydrates, greasy fried food and all simple processed carbohydrates in order to avoid dumping syndrome. Some patients who become lactose intolerant with weight loss surgery (WLS) experience dumping after eating food that contains lactose: dairy sugar. While most patients comply with dietary guidelines it is inevitable that at some point they will experience an dumping syndrome episode.
Gastric Dumping Syndrome occurs when chewed and partially digested food exits the stomach too rapidly and enters the small intestine. This causes the pancreas to release excessive amounts of insulin into the bloodstream and symptoms of hypoglycemia occur. Dumping Syndrome is most commonly associated with malabsorptive gastric surgery, specifically gastric bypass surgery. The symptoms of dumping syndrome will manifest immediately after eating or within three hours of eating. Each person is unique in the gastric dumping response, however, the common symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, profuse sweating followed by chills, dizziness and fatigue. When insulin levels return to normal symptoms subside.
Provide for Physical Comfort: At the onset of a dumping episode the patient may first notice a sense of disorientation or confusion. This indicates the body is beginning to panic over an excess of insulin flooding the bloodstream. One who has suffered from dumping previously will probably feel a sense of despair as they realize the onset of dumping syndrome. Providing for physical comfort at this time is the first response to a dumping episode. Efforts to interrupt or halt the dumping episode are futile. Many patients of gastric bypass familiar with dumping prefer to isolate from others finding a cool place in which to lie down. Symptoms may include vomiting or diarrhea so patients should find a restful place near a bathroom. Many will experience a short period of profuse sweating followed by a longer period of chills: providing a blanket is useful to relieve chills. A patient will reach for the blanket when it is needed, the caregiver should not attempt to cover the patient unless asked to do so. The patient may experience symptoms of sensory disorder including extreme and abnormal sensitivity light, sound, and touch. These are transient symptoms and many patients find relief when lights are dimmed and they are resting in a reduced-noise environment. Many patients say they prefer not to be comforted by touch from their caregiver because of acute sensitivity to touch during the dumping event.
Hydration and Electrolyte Beverages: Gastric bypass patients who are suffering from dumping syndrome may have been mildly dehydrated prior to the dumping episode. It is important to return the body to a hydrated state by sipping room temperature water or electrolyte fortified sports beverages. Patients should be discouraged from partaking of sugar sweetened beverages or juice in an effort to correct the insulin imbalance. The body is already in a reactionary and corrective state to the insulin surge and efforts to speed-up the correction process are seldom successful.
Seek Emergency Care: Patients should seek emergency medical care when the symptoms of dumping syndrome last for an extended period of time. If a patient loses consciousness immediately seek emergency medical care and provide details for the patient including the bariatric procedure, history of diabetes or hypoglycemia, and an account of food intake prior to the dumping episode.
Not all weight loss surgery patients experience dumping syndrome. It most commonly occurs in patients of malabsorptive procedures, specifically gastric bypass. Patients of adjustable gastric banding (lap-band) and gastric sleeve are not known to have dumping syndrome. Following an episode of dumping patients should consult their bariatric center to identify the cause of the event and make a plan to avoid episodes in the future.
Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved
Kaye Bailey is an internationally recognized writer, speaker and weight loss surgery advocate. She is the author of the highly successful weight loss surgery back to basics plan: 5 Day Pouch Test and the 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual. Her follow-up book, Day 6: Beyond the 5 Day Pouch Test, was published in December 2009. It provides guidance for long-term weight and health management with all bariatric surgical procedures. Ms. Bailey is known for her powerful "You can do this!" manner and her belief in the power of personal responsibility. She is the founder of LivingAfterWLS, LLC parent company to the LivingAfterWLS.com and 5daypouchtest.com websites. Supporting both websites is the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood, an online compassion-driven community for weight loss surgery, gastric bypass and gastric banding patients.
LivingAfterWLS
5DayPouchTest
Article Source: Emergency First Aid For Gastric Bypass Dumping Syndrome
Monday, July 12, 2010
WLS Friendly Summer Menus
It's that wonderful time of year! Picnics, grilling, beach parties, reunions! No need to be left behind because of your weight loss surgery: this is your season to shine! There are dozens of great recipes you can share with family and friends as you celebrate summer while respecting your dietary needs. Today we present menus featuring some of our LivingAfterWLS and 5 Day Pouch Test favorite dishes so you can "protein first" and Enjoy! Take a look:
Menu 1: Light Grilled Chicken Luncheon
Grilled Chicken with Fresh Apricot Sauce
The fresh flavors of apricot and green onion compliment broiled or grilled chicken. Wake up your senses with this dish that provides 222 calories and 28 grams protein per serving. Easy & Delicious. Recipe
Healthy Deviled Eggs
Everyone loves picnic eggs and this healthy recipe is sure to get attention. Serve as an appetizer or a side dish to your summer meal. Recipe.
Melon with Kiwano Melon Sauce
A variety of colorful melon is served with a quick blender sauce in a pretty presentation. Only 36 calories per service. A sweet compliment to any grilled protein. Recipe.
Frozen Raspberry Desserts
Finish your scrumptious "Protein First" meal with a dainty serving of Frozen Raspberry Desserts. You'll enjoy the lightness of a creamy dessert featuring summer's rubys: Raspberrrys! Recipe
Menu 2: Sunset Supper by the Grill
Grilled Turkey Steaks
A sweet pepper-citrus salsa tops these tasty grilled turkey breast steaks. Featured as a Day 5 meal for the 5 Day Pouch Test, this recipe is a family favorite any day of the week. Recipe.
Mixed Greens with Vinegar Salad Dressing
Enjoy your turkey steaks with a generous serving of mixed greens dressed with an easy vinegar dressing. Add a little of the pepper-citrus salsa to compliment the greens. Recipe.
Chocolate Spice Brownies
Finish your light and delicious meal with these chocolate spice brownies: they get moisture and sweetness from canned beets, but that will be our secret. Everyone loves these! Recipe.
Menu 3: Spectacular Grilled Feast of Flavor
Grilled Garlic Jumbo Shrimp & Cherry Tomato Skewers
Fresh herbs, garlic, shimp and tomatoes skewered for a show-stopping "Protein First" main course that satisfies hunger of the eye and hunger of the belly. Recipe.
Potato Skins with Cheese & Bacon
Make these nutritious and delicious potato skins in advance, then reheat over the grill just before serving your appreciative guests. Recipe
Sauteed Baby Spinach
Use early summer baby spinach from the farmers market to make this quick and easy spinach dish that is low in calories and high in nutrients. This serves as a nice bed for the grilled garlic shrimp and tomatoes when plating your lovely summer meal. Recipe.
Sugar Free Chocolate Pie
For a grand finale finish to your meal serve cool and cream sugar free chocolate cream pie. Recipe.
Menu 1: Light Grilled Chicken Luncheon
Grilled Chicken with Fresh Apricot Sauce
The fresh flavors of apricot and green onion compliment broiled or grilled chicken. Wake up your senses with this dish that provides 222 calories and 28 grams protein per serving. Easy & Delicious. Recipe
Healthy Deviled Eggs
Everyone loves picnic eggs and this healthy recipe is sure to get attention. Serve as an appetizer or a side dish to your summer meal. Recipe.
Melon with Kiwano Melon Sauce
A variety of colorful melon is served with a quick blender sauce in a pretty presentation. Only 36 calories per service. A sweet compliment to any grilled protein. Recipe.
Frozen Raspberry Desserts
Finish your scrumptious "Protein First" meal with a dainty serving of Frozen Raspberry Desserts. You'll enjoy the lightness of a creamy dessert featuring summer's rubys: Raspberrrys! Recipe
Menu 2: Sunset Supper by the Grill
Grilled Turkey Steaks
A sweet pepper-citrus salsa tops these tasty grilled turkey breast steaks. Featured as a Day 5 meal for the 5 Day Pouch Test, this recipe is a family favorite any day of the week. Recipe.
Mixed Greens with Vinegar Salad Dressing
Enjoy your turkey steaks with a generous serving of mixed greens dressed with an easy vinegar dressing. Add a little of the pepper-citrus salsa to compliment the greens. Recipe.
Chocolate Spice Brownies
Finish your light and delicious meal with these chocolate spice brownies: they get moisture and sweetness from canned beets, but that will be our secret. Everyone loves these! Recipe.
Menu 3: Spectacular Grilled Feast of Flavor
Grilled Garlic Jumbo Shrimp & Cherry Tomato Skewers
Fresh herbs, garlic, shimp and tomatoes skewered for a show-stopping "Protein First" main course that satisfies hunger of the eye and hunger of the belly. Recipe.
Potato Skins with Cheese & Bacon
Make these nutritious and delicious potato skins in advance, then reheat over the grill just before serving your appreciative guests. Recipe
Sauteed Baby Spinach
Use early summer baby spinach from the farmers market to make this quick and easy spinach dish that is low in calories and high in nutrients. This serves as a nice bed for the grilled garlic shrimp and tomatoes when plating your lovely summer meal. Recipe.
Sugar Free Chocolate Pie
For a grand finale finish to your meal serve cool and cream sugar free chocolate cream pie. Recipe.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July Sale at LivingAfterWLS General Store
The savings are HOT HOT HOT at the LivingAfterWLS General Store! Shop Now and enter coupon code: JULY2010 to save $2.00 off any order and receive and You Have Arrived Seasoning Sample - FREE! No minimum Order!
Quality LivingAfterWLS products for your best living with Weight Loss Surgery!
Summer Soups - A Healthy Choice For Weight Loss Surgery Dieters
By Kaye Bailey
Summer is a time of abundant vegetables available locally grown at affordable prices. Through the hot summer and into fall farm stands dot America's byways as local growers bring to the public an abundance of freshly grown vegetables, fruits and berries. People who control their weight with bariatric weight loss surgery (WLS) can benefit from a stop at the farm stand for fresh vegetables to transform into healthy soup.
A recent study from Pennsylvania State University indicates that people who include a daily serving of soup in their diet are more likely to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight than those who do not enjoy soup in their diet. A homemade vegetable soup is considered a low-energy-density food that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. It is "low-energy" because the calories (energy) in the food are low in comparison to the volume of the food. For example, a 1-cup serving of vegetable soup is seldom more than 100 calories, depending on the amount of fat used in preparation. On the other hand a 1 cup serving of ice cream contains 300 calories making it a high-energy-density food with little nutritional value.
The study found that soup as a first course, or a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack, is filling to the point that further calorie consumption through the day decreases. It is believed that soup helps sustain satiation because the fiber from vegetables slows digestion. In addition, carbohydrates from homemade vegetable soup tend to be low-glycemic and do not adversely affect glucose response in the same way simple processed carbohydrates do. As a result our metabolic process is steady and we do not feel an energy surge or drop that is often experienced when eating simple carbohydrates.
Many weight loss surgery patients who complain of "carb-cravings" find that eating a 1-cup serving of soup is an effective way to stop those cravings and curtail feelings of "head-hunger." People who feed "head-hunger" with simple processed carbs tend to eat significantly more calories without satiating those cravings. This eventually leads to weight gain, even after weight loss surgery.
A good homemade vegetable soup can be put together quickly and keeps for up to a week refrigerated. Consider soup making as a series of layers, starting with savory onions and garlic. Heat a healthy monounsaturated fat such as olive oil or peanut oil over medium heat. Add one chopped onion and a clove of minced garlic and cook and stir until soft and translucent. While the onion and garlic cook wash and chop the vegetables for your soup. Select fresh seasonal vegetables that are crisp and unblemished. Vegetables that are good in summer soup include zucchini and summer squash, fresh tomatoes, green beans, carrots, turnips, spinach, napa cabbage, green onions, and fresh herbs. Fill the soup pot with as many fresh vegetables as you like, add the herbs during the final minutes of cooking.
For liquid add low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, tomato juice, or seasoned vegetable juice such as V8 diluted with water. Simmer the vegetables and liquid just until the vegetables are tender and flavors combine. For weight loss surgery patient a thick soup is desired to provide a denser meal and avoid a "slider food" that slips through the stomach pouch too quickly. Portions should be carefully measured at 1-cup per serving and this should be eaten in 15 minutes or less. Taking longer to eat soup will result in greater consumption and a decreased feeling of fullness.
In general, a 1 cup serving of vegetable soup will provide 3 grams of protein and 15 grams of healthy carbohydrate in addition to fiber and beneficial phytonutrients including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. While our dietary focus with weight loss surgery is to eat a high protein diet, a freshly made vegetable soup is a healthy nutritional compliment to that diet. Vegetables are known to lower the risk of many cancers, heart disease and stroke and strengthen the immune system. For many with weight loss surgery raw vegetables or salads may cause gastric distress, but most WLS patients report a high tolerance for vegetable soup.
Kaye Bailey (c) - All Rights Reserved
For more terrific weight loss surgery friendly recipes link to LivingAfterWLS Kitchen
Join the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood: Your safe haven circle of friends making the most of their weight loss surgery experience. LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood
Article Source: Summer Soups - A Healthy Choice For Weight Loss Surgery Dieters
Summer is a time of abundant vegetables available locally grown at affordable prices. Through the hot summer and into fall farm stands dot America's byways as local growers bring to the public an abundance of freshly grown vegetables, fruits and berries. People who control their weight with bariatric weight loss surgery (WLS) can benefit from a stop at the farm stand for fresh vegetables to transform into healthy soup.
A recent study from Pennsylvania State University indicates that people who include a daily serving of soup in their diet are more likely to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight than those who do not enjoy soup in their diet. A homemade vegetable soup is considered a low-energy-density food that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. It is "low-energy" because the calories (energy) in the food are low in comparison to the volume of the food. For example, a 1-cup serving of vegetable soup is seldom more than 100 calories, depending on the amount of fat used in preparation. On the other hand a 1 cup serving of ice cream contains 300 calories making it a high-energy-density food with little nutritional value.
The study found that soup as a first course, or a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack, is filling to the point that further calorie consumption through the day decreases. It is believed that soup helps sustain satiation because the fiber from vegetables slows digestion. In addition, carbohydrates from homemade vegetable soup tend to be low-glycemic and do not adversely affect glucose response in the same way simple processed carbohydrates do. As a result our metabolic process is steady and we do not feel an energy surge or drop that is often experienced when eating simple carbohydrates.
Many weight loss surgery patients who complain of "carb-cravings" find that eating a 1-cup serving of soup is an effective way to stop those cravings and curtail feelings of "head-hunger." People who feed "head-hunger" with simple processed carbs tend to eat significantly more calories without satiating those cravings. This eventually leads to weight gain, even after weight loss surgery.
A good homemade vegetable soup can be put together quickly and keeps for up to a week refrigerated. Consider soup making as a series of layers, starting with savory onions and garlic. Heat a healthy monounsaturated fat such as olive oil or peanut oil over medium heat. Add one chopped onion and a clove of minced garlic and cook and stir until soft and translucent. While the onion and garlic cook wash and chop the vegetables for your soup. Select fresh seasonal vegetables that are crisp and unblemished. Vegetables that are good in summer soup include zucchini and summer squash, fresh tomatoes, green beans, carrots, turnips, spinach, napa cabbage, green onions, and fresh herbs. Fill the soup pot with as many fresh vegetables as you like, add the herbs during the final minutes of cooking.
For liquid add low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, tomato juice, or seasoned vegetable juice such as V8 diluted with water. Simmer the vegetables and liquid just until the vegetables are tender and flavors combine. For weight loss surgery patient a thick soup is desired to provide a denser meal and avoid a "slider food" that slips through the stomach pouch too quickly. Portions should be carefully measured at 1-cup per serving and this should be eaten in 15 minutes or less. Taking longer to eat soup will result in greater consumption and a decreased feeling of fullness.
In general, a 1 cup serving of vegetable soup will provide 3 grams of protein and 15 grams of healthy carbohydrate in addition to fiber and beneficial phytonutrients including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. While our dietary focus with weight loss surgery is to eat a high protein diet, a freshly made vegetable soup is a healthy nutritional compliment to that diet. Vegetables are known to lower the risk of many cancers, heart disease and stroke and strengthen the immune system. For many with weight loss surgery raw vegetables or salads may cause gastric distress, but most WLS patients report a high tolerance for vegetable soup.
Kaye Bailey (c) - All Rights Reserved
For more terrific weight loss surgery friendly recipes link to LivingAfterWLS Kitchen
Join the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood: Your safe haven circle of friends making the most of their weight loss surgery experience. LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood
Article Source: Summer Soups - A Healthy Choice For Weight Loss Surgery Dieters
Danger! HOTSummer Weather May Lead to Dehydration For WLS Patients
Water constitutes about 60 percent of an adult's body weight. In the body, water becomes the fluid in which all life processes occur. Water in the body fluids carries nutrients and waste products throughout the body; maintains cell structure and participates in metabolic reactions; serves as the solvent for minerals, vitamins, amino acids, glucose and other small molecules, acts as a lubricant around joints, the spinal cord and inside the eyes; aids in the regulation of normal body temperature and maintains blood volume. To support these vital functions, and others, the body actively maintains an appropriate water balance. When the body is short of water the condition known as dehydration results.
Dehydration is the condition in which body water output exceeds water input meaning we eliminate and perspire more fluid than we ingest. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dry skin and mucous membranes, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure and weakness. When a message of thirst is unanswered the symptoms of dehydration may progress rapidly from thirst to weakness, exhaustion, and delirium and end in death of not corrected. Dehydration may easily develop with either water deprivation or excessive water losses.
To avoid dehydration and illness caused by insufficient water balance weight loss surgery patients can take the following measures to insure adequate water intake:
Lots of Water. The second rule of weight loss surgery is drink lots of water. During the initial stage of weight loss this is key in flushing fat and toxins from the body and keeping all metabolic processes functioning smoothly. To ensure enough water is consumed a good measure is to drink one ounce of water for every two pounds of body weight. Water intake should occur throughout the day.
Fortified Beverages. Vitamin and mineral fortified beverages are beneficial to some weight loss surgery patients. The flavoring makes them more palatable making it easier to consume generous amounts of water. Be certain to enjoy only non-calorie fortified beverages that do not contain sugar or other high calorie sweeteners.
Green Tea or Sun Tea. Freshly brewed green tea or herbal tea served over ice and sweetened with non-calorie sweeteners is another good way to stay hydrated during warm summer weather. The health benefits of green tea and herbal tea may contribute favorably to a well-planned health and weight management program.
Water Containing Foods. Many foods contain a high percentage of water that contribute to body hydration. Enjoy vegetables and fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, lettuce, cabbage, celery, spinach, apples, grapes, citrus, and carrots. All of these foods contain more than 80 percent water which will contribute to hydration and provide a valuable source of vitamins and minerals.
Kaye Bailey (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved
Article Source: Danger! Warm Summer Weather May Lead to Dehydration For Weight Loss Surgery Patients
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Dark Meat Chicken and the High Protein WLS Diet
By Kaye Bailey
Chicken legs and chicken thighs are often left behind by those following the weight loss surgery high protein diet who favor the leaner lighter breast meat. For years dark meat poultry has been rejected by dieters as too high in fat to play a beneficial role in a healthy weight management lifestyle. But this nutrient dense meat has a place in the bariatric diet and in these difficult economic times dark meat poultry is an affordable choice at the market.
A 3-ounce serving of dark meat chicken, skin removed, provides 166 calories, 21 grams protein, 8 grams of fat (2 grams saturated) and 76mg of cholesterol. But meat should not be judged on its nutritional profile alone: dark meat poultry is an excellent source of the B vitamins niacin and riboflavin and a good source of zinc. And bundle packages of chicken drumsticks and thighs are ridiculously affordable too, often priced less than $1 a pound. Many nutritionists say that the benefits of the nutrient dense dark meat make it the preferred choice to white meat poultry provided the skin is removed before eating and a low-fat cooking method is used to prepare the chicken.
Weight loss surgery patients are prone to B vitamin deficiencies. In addition to B vitamin supplementation patients should regularly include foods that are rich in B vitamins in their diet. Niacin, vitamin B3, is important in the body's production of energy from food. Niacin helps keep the skin, nerves, and digestive system healthy and is required for normal growth and the synthesis of DNA. Riboflavin, vitamin B2, plays an essential role in the production of red blood cells, energy production, and growth. As we age it is believed we do not consume enough riboflavin and may become deficient in this important B vitamin.
Learn more about B Vitamins & WLS
At the market look for chicken thighs and drumsticks packaged separately. Thighs are available boneless and bone-in. My favorite piece is the whole chicken leg with the thigh and drumstick intact and the skin on. Ten-pound bags of chicken legs are available at most super-stores for around.75 cents a pound, a fine bargain when feeding a crowd. Chicken legs can be seasoned and roasted in the oven, skillet fried, or grilled outdoors. Poultry should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A meat thermometer is the best method for testing chicken for doneness. Without a thermometer to test for doneness pierce the skin and meat with a sharp knife or skewer allowing juices to run. If the juices run clear the meat is cooked.
Serve dark meat poultry with fresh vegetables and citrus fruit. When eaten with poultry, citrus fruits, cabbage, broccoli, red bell peppers, kale, strawberries, kiwifruit will enhance iron absorption from the poultry thus promoting overall health and wellness.
Kaye Bailey (c) - All Rights Reserved
For more terrific weight loss surgery friendly recipes link to LivingAfterWLS Kitchen
Join the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood: Your safe haven circle of friends making the most of their weight loss surgery experience.LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood
Article Source: Dark Meat Chicken and the High Protein Weight Loss Surgery Diet
Chicken legs and chicken thighs are often left behind by those following the weight loss surgery high protein diet who favor the leaner lighter breast meat. For years dark meat poultry has been rejected by dieters as too high in fat to play a beneficial role in a healthy weight management lifestyle. But this nutrient dense meat has a place in the bariatric diet and in these difficult economic times dark meat poultry is an affordable choice at the market.
A 3-ounce serving of dark meat chicken, skin removed, provides 166 calories, 21 grams protein, 8 grams of fat (2 grams saturated) and 76mg of cholesterol. But meat should not be judged on its nutritional profile alone: dark meat poultry is an excellent source of the B vitamins niacin and riboflavin and a good source of zinc. And bundle packages of chicken drumsticks and thighs are ridiculously affordable too, often priced less than $1 a pound. Many nutritionists say that the benefits of the nutrient dense dark meat make it the preferred choice to white meat poultry provided the skin is removed before eating and a low-fat cooking method is used to prepare the chicken.
Weight loss surgery patients are prone to B vitamin deficiencies. In addition to B vitamin supplementation patients should regularly include foods that are rich in B vitamins in their diet. Niacin, vitamin B3, is important in the body's production of energy from food. Niacin helps keep the skin, nerves, and digestive system healthy and is required for normal growth and the synthesis of DNA. Riboflavin, vitamin B2, plays an essential role in the production of red blood cells, energy production, and growth. As we age it is believed we do not consume enough riboflavin and may become deficient in this important B vitamin.
Learn more about B Vitamins & WLS
At the market look for chicken thighs and drumsticks packaged separately. Thighs are available boneless and bone-in. My favorite piece is the whole chicken leg with the thigh and drumstick intact and the skin on. Ten-pound bags of chicken legs are available at most super-stores for around.75 cents a pound, a fine bargain when feeding a crowd. Chicken legs can be seasoned and roasted in the oven, skillet fried, or grilled outdoors. Poultry should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A meat thermometer is the best method for testing chicken for doneness. Without a thermometer to test for doneness pierce the skin and meat with a sharp knife or skewer allowing juices to run. If the juices run clear the meat is cooked.
Serve dark meat poultry with fresh vegetables and citrus fruit. When eaten with poultry, citrus fruits, cabbage, broccoli, red bell peppers, kale, strawberries, kiwifruit will enhance iron absorption from the poultry thus promoting overall health and wellness.
Kaye Bailey (c) - All Rights Reserved
For more terrific weight loss surgery friendly recipes link to LivingAfterWLS Kitchen
Join the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood: Your safe haven circle of friends making the most of their weight loss surgery experience.LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood
Article Source: Dark Meat Chicken and the High Protein Weight Loss Surgery Diet
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