5 Day Pouch Test: Approved Recipes

Hey Neighbors! Many of you have included our Collection of Neighborhood Recipes in your weight loss surgery tool box. We have finished testing and now offer you the official list of approved 5 Day Pouch Test Recipes from this wonderful community cookbook. Here you go:

5 Day Pouch Test: Approved Recipes

A Collection of Neighborhood Recipes

Days 1 & 2: Liquids
P.3 – Fortified Milk, P.6 – Mocha Smoothie, P.21 - Sunrise Morning Protein Shake, P.47 – Unjury Hi-Protein Pudding, P.66 – Diane's Head Hunger Soup.

Day 3: Soft Protein
P.13 – Bed & Breakfast Baked Eggs, P.17 – Newbie Coddled Egg for One, P.26 – Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars, P.29 – Parmesan Tuna Patties, P.113 – Deviled Egg Salad.

Day 4: Firm Protein
P. 98 – Baked Halibut with Herbs, P.102 – Broiled Peppered Salmon, P.15 – Family Meat Loaf, P.117 – Grilled Rosemary Garlic Shrimp, P.120 – Herbed Scallops.

Day 5: Solid Protein
P.96 – Apricot Chicken, P. 116 – Florentine Steak, P. 121 – Jerk Chicken Thighs, P.131 – Pork Au Poivre with Mustard & Sage, P.132 – Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce


If you don't have the cookbook yet you can order it HERE


Let me know if any of these are your favorites. Happy Living!

Cheesy Shrimp-Stuffed Mushrooms

I love a savory stuffed mushroom! This is where I go first when I hit the holiday buffet. The other day at the deli in my supermarket I came across a freebie recipe card for these Cheesy Shrimp-Stuffed Mushrooms. They have bacon, shrimp, and cheese in them. I'm in love! You get 5 grams of protein to 1 gram of carbohydrate and only 3 grams fat. Here is the recipe. Send me your pictures if you make these and happy munching! I think the filling would make a great meal when stuffed in a portobello mushroom.


Cheesy Shrimp-Stuffed Mushrooms

6 slices bacon (try turkey bacon to lower the fat)
12 large fresh button mushrooms
1/4 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp
1/2 cup finely shredded Cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground thyme leaves

In a large skillet cook bacon on medium-high heat 4 minutes; turn and cook 4 minutes more. Bacon should be cooked but not crisp. Remove bacon from skillet and drain on paper towels. Pour off excess fat from skillet, set aside.

Cut 4 of the bacon slices into 3 equal pieces for garnish. Chop the remaining 2 slices of bacon; set aside. Clean mushrooms; remove stems. Reserve mushroom caps. Chop stems; set aside. Chop shrimp; set aside.

Combine chopped bacon, chopped mushroom stems and chopped shrimp with cheese, garlic, cayenne pepper and thyme in large bowl. Fill each mushroom cap with bacon-shrimp mixture.

Reheat skillet over medium-high heat. Top each filled mushroom cap with 1 bacon piece; place stuffed mushrooms in hot skillet. Cover; reduce heat to medium-low. Cook unitl mushrooms are tender, about 15 minutes. (You could also bake these in a preheated 350F oven for 20-25 minutes).

Serve warm.

1 stuffed mushroom is 51 calories, 5g protein, 3g fat, 1g carbohydrate.

More Great Recipes

5 Day Pouch Test Manual: Tickled Pink

I am tickled pink to say we received the full print run of the 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual on Tuesday (November 25). We immediately began shipping the pre-ordered books to you! If you ordered your book between October 8-31st your shipment is on the way to you! I hope you enjoy it. For those who ordered your books between November 1 and the present: these orders will be processed and in the US Mail today and tomorrow. Starting on Monday we will provide same day shipping on all orders. (US First Class Mail takes 2-5 days for delivery depending upon location.)

In celebration of this happy moment I am pleased to give you free shipping on all First Class Mail Orders.
ORDER HERE

Yesterday was the feasting day here in the United States. How did you do? Did you follow the Four Rules and Liquid Restrictions and avoid the Slider Foods? Or did you get a bit of track. I wasn't stellar but I know that today is a new day and I can, using the ideals of the 5 Day Pouch Test, get back on track before I go too far off track. Remember, you are never alone. When you receive your 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual be sure to read these chapters:

• Fixing Broken Windows After Weight Loss Surgery (page 13)
• The Plan to Work the 5 Day Pouch Test Plan (page 18)
• Key Learning Points (page 26)
• Understanding Hunger (page 55)
• After The Pouch Test: Day 6 and Beyond (page 95)

And be sure to go over the recipe selection carefully and make your menu plan in advance. I think you will enjoy how good eating and living well makes you feel.

CHEERS!
Kaye

ORDER NOW - TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR WLS

As part of your successful 5 Day Pouch Test please take advantage of information and friendship here: 5 Day Pouch Test in the Neighborhood. You are never alone. Never.

HAPPY FUN FRIDAY NEIGHBORS!

Today is the day we play our favorite Neighborhood Quiz game and have the chance to win fabulous prizes and learn something about your Neighbors! Our ever charming hostess SongBirdDiane presents this week's challenging question: Two Truths & a Lie. That question was penned by our favorite pre-op writer PapaJohn. And our South Dakota friend, Florabelle has promised fabuous holiday gift baskets for this week's lucky winners.

Please join us - there is always fun in the Neighborhood!

AND NOW FOR THE QUESTION...
Tell two true things about yourself and one lie. The next person who posts tries to guess the lie and adds two truths and a lie of their own. This could get interesting.

Lemon: The Healthy Healing Fruit

Hello Neighbors!

Today in the 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin I presented a recipe for Lemon-Ginger Healing Tonic. This is a warm cleansing beverage to be enjoyed first thing in the morning as part of the 5 Day Pouch Test. The tonic works because lemon is an astringent that helps remove toxins from our bodies and we soon feel energy and we feel clean. This can be said of most citrus fruit. I think there are many cleaning products that have been sold on their "lemon fresh" claims.

Lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits are all antioxidant rich. And they are low-glycemic. That means they won't disrupt our high-protein diet with a sugar surge. Of course we all know that citrus is rich in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant with properties that protects both the cells and the blood from free-radical damage. Vitamin C helps restore and regenerate the cells. Adequate intake of Vitamin C can decrease the incidence of colds and infection. It improves the skin, hair and nails.

To include Vitamin C from citrus in your diet add a squeeze of fresh juice to your water or tea. Season grilled protein with citrus. Add orange sections to your salads or main course meals. And of course, give the Lemon-Ginger Tonic a try. You'll love how clean you feel!

Lemon-Ginger Tonic
Begin each morning of the 5 Day Pouch Test with this comforting and cleansing lemon-ginger tonic. The lemon-ginger tonic will increase your energy and work to detoxify your stressed digestive system. In addition, this tonic has a cleansing affect on the liver, and increases the production of bile to clear any backlog in the common bile duct. Using this tonic as part of your 5 Day Pouch Test will leave you feeling cleansed and powerful with an eagerness to take full control of your pouch.

2 lemons, washed and sliced 1/2-inch thick
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
3 cups boiling water
honey or artificial sweetener to taste

In a teapot or saucepot combine lemon slices, grated ginger and boiling water. Cover let steep 10 minutes. Pour tonic through strainer to remove solids. Drink warm adding sweetener to taste. Garnish with lemon slices if desired. Be sure to drink all three cups. This is best first thing in the morning before eating or drinking anything else. If you are on Days 1 & 2 (liquid days) you do not need to wait 30 minutes after your last sip of tonic to have your liquid meal.

I like to start my day with this tonic even if I'm not on the 5DPT. Getting the day off to a clean start helps keep me on track.

5DPT Owner's Manual: Good & Bad News

Hello Neighbors!

Just a quick update on my forthcoming book, "5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual" that I have been telling you about for several weeks. First, the BAD NEWS: We have experienced a minor production delay and the books will not be available for shipment until December 1. I am so sorry - I am told these things happen in publishing. If I could turn the wheel of the printing press myself I would because I know how important this is to so many of you.

Here's the GOOD NEWS: we are extending our Free First Class Shipping offer on all pre-orders!!! This offer is good through November 30th. Free shipping on all books to all destinations, including outside of the United States. And don't forget - all pre-orders come with 2 FREE GIFTS.

Go Here to Reserve YOUR Copy

Please take advantage of our pre-order sale and receive free shipping and 2 free gifts: the 5DPT Wallet Card & 2-Page 5DPT Journal.

Order Now

CHEERS!
Kaye

Participant Request: Your Personal WLS Experience

Hello Neighbors!

I am appealing to you for help with a book being developed by Tricia Greaves, owner/president of "Be Totally Free". She is the founder of a program to address issues of weight control, weight loss and eating disorders. Her work is very good and very much aligned with our LivingAfterWLS Empowerment Philosophy. As part of her growing body of work and support network she is researching weight loss surgery.

You are invited to participate in the survey and contribute to this exciting project. I have done the survey and I trust that Ms. Greaves will treat our topic with utmost sensitivity, accuracy, and kindness.

Click here: Weight Loss Surgery: Your Personal Experience

Neither myself or LivingAfterWLS is affiliated with Be Totally Free, or Ms. Greaves and we will not receive compensation for your participation. However, I do ask that you mention the LAWLS Neighborhood as part of your response to Question 8 about your support network. I do not think we can ever over-emphasize the value of support in this life long journey.

Thanks for taking a moment from your busy day to help build on the growing body of information about our very unique way of life.

CHEERS!
Kaye

Weight Loss Surgery is Easy, Right? WRONG!

This is one of my syndicated articles with Ezine Articles. Just this morning I listened to another news story about how surgical weight loss is easy, and a cop-out. Those who take this path are weak and too lazy to do it the "old fashioned way" (diet & exercise). Who says we don't follow a diet and exercise? Reports like this anger me! Nine years after getting "gut whacked" I'm still working to control my health by maintaining my weight, exercising and following a mindful diet. How about You? Has weight loss surgery been easy for you?

I hope you enjoy this article - Please leave your feedback.

CHEERS!
Kaye


Gastric Bypass: The Easy Way Out of Fat Land - Right?
By Kaye Bailey

If you listen, even for a moment, to the talk in overweight communities you will almost always hear that gastric bypass weight loss surgery is the “easy way out” of Fat Land. People with weak spirits and good insurance get a lucky break, have their stomachs whacked and stapled and lose weight the easy way. Weight Loss Surgery: seen by pious public to be surgical baptism for the guilty gluttonous slothful.

But those of us who step in the water to be cleansed of our fatty sins know better. Weight loss surgery is NOT the easy way out, a simple dunking of the repentant, the sins atoned, and the price paid, the soul and body healed. We know the atonement is paid every day for the rest of our lives when we set our healthy house in order with gastric bypass.

We understand that WLS is not easy. Why, then, does the public think it’s redemption to weight loss?

First: what the public sees is a rapidly diminishing person recently repaired by gastric bypass. The pounds melt away seemingly in a plain sight. What hides behind the curtain are the ugly demons. Dumping? We don’t talk about it. Vomiting? We don’t tell our regurgitating stories. Head games driving you insane? Who you going to tell? Who is listening? Exercising? Nobody wants to hear about the “E” word. So what the public sees front and center stage is a person consistently succeeding at massive weight loss; a person glowing in their own rebirth and betraying the fat and hopeless around them. How else can it be explained? WLS must be the magic pill, the easy-way-out of obesity hell.

Second: the WLS grass-roots public relations machine tells the public gastric bypass is easy, thus we become our own worst enemy. Tell me if this doesn’t sound familiar: “I can still eat the same things, just less of them! ha ha ha!” or how about, “I lost 145 pounds and never had to do a moments exercise – WLS is fabulous that way – no exercise required.” And so the popular belief perpetuates that fat glutton slobs can lose weight just by eating less of the same foods and never exercising. Brilliant! How easy is that?

Let me tell you what weight loss surgery is really like for me.

I am six years post-op. Two nights ago I vomited my dinner (bacon-seared sea scallops and green beans) because it was just a bit too greasy for my sensitive stomach. A week before that I became deathly ill, it’s called dumping, from snacking mindlessly on Chinese chow mein noodles. Disorientation, hot sweats and then cold chills – dumping – a dire consequence of eating the wrong foods with the malabsorptive system. This morning, just like most mornings, I walked two brisk miles on the treadmill to begin my day. This evening I spent 25 minutes strength training to maintain my muscle tone, keep my metabolism running high and making damn sure I don’t regain one single pound.

And this is how it will be for the rest of my life. I will vomit, dump, exercise and be vigilant day in and day out if I want this easy weight loss surgery to work for me.

My body does not take weekends off from weight loss surgery. I don’t get chocolate cake just because it’s my birthday. I do not have a double-cheeseburger with fries and a shake just because I’ve had a stressful day and I deserve it. My body is on the gastric-bypass plan 24-7.

Do you think that’s easy?

Weight Loss Surgery post-ops understand what I’m talking about. Many of us go through a phase of fighting the gastric bypass and engage in snacking or grazing. We out-eat the stomach pouch and regain weight and we become self-loathing. We vomit and dump and do it all over again thinking we can somehow trick the body. Eventually we learn and we get it: WLS is for life.

Weight loss surgery pre-op patients want badly to understand this, but the dieting culture has taught us to be strict for X-number days and then we get a free day. The culture has taught us if we can stick to a plan for X-weeks and lose X-pounds then we can “get back to normal”. We are all expert dieters by the time we elect to have gastric bypass surgery.

There is no back to normal after WLS – it is a lifetime lifestyle commitment.

Kaye Bailey © 2005 - All Rights Reserved

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kaye_Bailey http://EzineArticles.com/?Gastric-Bypass:-The-Easy-Way-Out-of-Fat-Land---Right?&id=71012

Sexuality, Obesity & Weight Loss

There is a recurring topic in weight loss surgery communities about how weight loss affects our sexual health and sex life. Right now we are talking about it again in the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood, read here: Obesity, Weight Loss & Sexuality. Here is one of my previously published articles on this topic:


Sex Is Better After Weight Loss Surgery
By Kaye Bailey

There is no question that obesity affects all aspects of our lives, including our sexuality. A Duke University study concluded that 65 percent of obese people seeking treatment reported an impaired sex life. Physical causes exist that impair sexual function in the overweight. Obesity can alter testosterone levels in men and increase their risk of impotence. Morbid obesity can result in back pain and depression - both of which reduce sex drive. And the obvious, obese men and women can have difficulty positioning for sexual intercourse.

In addition to physical impairments we have social and emotional impairments. Sexy is seldom depicted as obese and never as morbidly obese. Because we compare ourselves with the social ideal of sexy we feel body conscious, self-loathing and undesirable. One community member, Jan*, said, "Most of us have been obese all our lives and never experienced the normal teenage years of sexual tension. We were often never asked out on dates, never flirted with or only offered sex by people who did not love us, but we misunderstood their intentions due to our insecurities."

Weight Loss Improves Sex Lives for Many
Recent studies indicate that even modest weight loss may improve the sex lives of many obese people. Participants in a study conducted by the Obesity Society in Vancouver, Canada reported that participants who lost on average 17.5 percent of their body weight reported improved sex lives.

Mike*, one of our LivingAfterWLS community members, said he enjoyed a loving and devoted relationship with his wife of 26 years, but they did not have a sexually intimate relationship. "The reason was clear," he said, "I had ballooned to 368 pounds and was embarrassed to even attempt to be intimate with my 5'3" 109 pound wife. I was sure she had no interest in having sex with a ‘fatty' like me. My self-esteem was shot. I lost all confidence in myself. Needless to say, our sex life was zero."

In February Mike underwent WLS to improve his health and lost 110 pounds in seven months. He said, "I decided to make the plunge and indicate to my wife my 'intentions'. It was a bit awkward at first but then WOW! We had the best sex we have ever had in our marriage. It's been amazing." He says their relationship changed over night and they are making up for lost time. "I feel so guilty now that my wife stayed with me all this time, not being able to enjoy a good sex life. Besides the obvious benefits of health improvement I have more incentive to continue on my new lifestyle. And believe me, it's worth it!"

Mike's weight loss and improved sex drive resulted in a favorable change to his marriage. But that isn't always the case after weight loss. Maryann is married to a man with a heart condition that is treated with medications that cause sexually dysfunction. She said, "As I lost weight my sex drive went to overdrive. He couldn't perform. At the same time I was receiving more and more attention from men. It led to an affair." Maryann recently ended the affair and said, "I love my husband very much and cannot believe I allowed myself to stray. I found out the grass is not greener on the other side."

*Name changed per request of the subject.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kaye_Bailey

Update: 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual

Hello Neighbors!

Just a quick update on my forthcoming book, "5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual" that I have been telling you about for several weeks. We are still on track to receive the books next week (November 12) and we will begin shipping all of the pre-orders immediately. The response to the pre-order sale has been overwhelming and I am deeply humbled by the interest in this publication and the potential for so many of you to have new hope and belief in your surgical weight loss tool. Thank you very much for your interest. If you pre-ordered the book please keep an eye on your inbox for notification that your book and free gifts are on the way. You will also find a USPS tracking number in the email.

And if you haven't ordered yet please take advantage of our pre-order sale and receive free shipping and 2 free gifts.

PRE-ORDER THE 5 DAY POUCH TEST OWNER'S MANUAL

CHEERS!
Kaye

From the back cover:
There is nothing more discouraging to a person who has undergone surgical weight loss than gaining weight. Feelings of failure, shame, embarrassment and self-loathing lead to anxiety and often more weight gain. Sadly, many lose hope believing their surgical pouch is no longer functioning properly. But there is hope.

Hundreds of people have taken control of their surgical pouch by following the 5 Day Pouch Test. At the end of Day 5 many who were sad and hopeless at the beginning of the week report euphoria knowing their pouch is functioning properly. Hopelessness is replaced with confidence. Five days. That is all it takes to turn things around.

If you are one of the many people struggling with regain after surgical weight loss I invite you to give yourself the power of the 5 Day Pouch Test. I believe that success with weight loss surgery, and in life, can be found when we focus on inner strength rather than inner weakness.

You Can Do This!

Kaye Bailey is an internationally recognized advocate for patients of weight loss surgery. Her vast collection of articles is widely syndicated in several languages. She is the founder and chairman of LivingAfterWLS, LLC: the parent company of the premier websites LivingAfterWLS.com and 5daypouchtest.com. The LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood, billed, "A safe haven circle of friends" is a compassion driven online community that is internationally recommended by bariatric centers as the best online resource for surgical weight loss support. Ms. Bailey is a dynamic speaker with a generous spirit of acceptance, compassion, and motivation that has touched many audiences. She makes her home in Wyoming with her husband Jim and several cherished pets.

Food Pushers and 5 Day Pouch Testers

Hello Neighbors!

Today's 5 Day Pouch Test Bulletin - the free email about the back-to-basics program for weight loss surgery post-ops - gave fair warning for the food pushing season that starts in October with all the Halloween sweets and doesn't end until the ball drops on the first day of 2009. From now through the December we will face food temptations and food pushers around every corner. "Today's Bulletin looks at one of the rough patches in the weeks and months ahead: the Food Pushing Season. Yes it is upon us and we will encounter many temptations in our daily lives to detour from the course of healthy living. The Food Pushers, some well-meaning and some just mean, will be out in force."

In the Neighborhood wee are discussing how to Push-Back the Food Pushers. Come on over and let us know your strategy for staying on track in this season of temptations and detractors. Patrece is leading a similar discussion about food pushers: Why don't they get it?

And since it is Monday and we all know Monday is the best day of the week there are several Neighbors joining together in the 5 Day Pouch Test! The best part of these 5DPT teams is that we learn the value of support and we learn that we are never-ever-never alone.

Jana "OneTallMama" up in Alaska made soup for day one. Follow the plan and take the chill off the day. Read here

Marianna, a 5DPT veteran, is taking another go at it. She has quite a group of fans joining her in the adventure: read here. And speaking of fans - how about a big standing O for our singing Diva: go here and celebrate this fantastic moment with her. Talk about a WOW moment.

Join us in the Neighborhood - There is something for everyone, no matter the stage of your journey!

Shout-Out for Mel's Recovering Fatty Website

Hello Neighbors!

One of our good Neighbors here, Melinda, has put together a beautiful website and she is enjoying a growing community over at Recovering Fatty. Like the Neighborhood, her site is a licensed IPB board (so it works just like the Neighborhood), it is secure from spammers and flamers, and it is advertising free. Melinda is a special person with a kind heart and giving spirit. She writes beautifully and you will enjoy her many articles and her blogs. Mel is doing good work for the weight loss surgery community. And as far as I'm concerned we can never get too much support in this way of life.


Best to you Mel & your community.

Taking Early Orders on the 5 Pouch Test Manual!

The 5 Day Pouch Test Owner’s Manual
by Kaye Bailey
Available November 10, 2008

The Complete Plan
Information - Encouragement
52 Proven Recipes
5 Day Sample Menu & Snack Ideas
Testimonials from people just like you, taking
control of their weight loss surgery tool.
You can work your pouch again!

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY
SAVE $4.00 OFF cover Price!!

Total Price: $24.95 for a $32.95 Value!!!!

Link now to order - Reserve your copy today!!!

Carbohydrate Withdrawal & Nausea

Carbohydrate Withdrawal and Nausea
(from the forthcoming 5 Day Pouch Test Handbook)
If you notice symptoms of carbohydrate withdrawal you can eat a small piece of melon, some berries, an apple or orange. Any low-glycemic fruit or vegetable will reduce the symptoms of carbohydrate withdrawal.

You may also try a dose of Emergen-C, which should reduce headache, dizziness or cramping from carbohydrate withdrawal.

Feeling nauseated? Try sipping some freshly brewed warm green tea. You can add fresh ginger juice to further ease the symptoms of stomach distress and nausea. The nausea may be the result of a switch from carbohydrate slider foods to richer proteins and the ingredients in the protein shakes.

Include: Low-Glycemic Fresh Fruit: apple, avocado, banana, blueberries cantaloupe, grapefruit, kiwi fruit, lemon, lime, mango, orange, peach, pear, plum, raspberries, and strawberries.

Avoid these fruits: fresh apricots, cherries, papaya, pineapple, rhubarb, and watermelon.

Include Low-Glycemic Dried Fruit: apple, apricots, dates, and prunes.

Include: Low-Glycemic Fresh Vegetables: alfalfa sprouts, artichokes, arugula, asparagus, bean sprouts, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, chives, corn, cucumber, eggplant, endive, fennel, garlic, ginger, green beans, herbs, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, okra, peppers, radishes, scallions, shallots, snow pea sprouts, spinach, squash, Swiss chard, tomato, turnip, watercress, and zucchini.

Avoid these vegetables: Beets, fava beans, parsnips, peas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams.

Trick or Treat Neighborhood Swap

Are you ready for some Tricks or Treats?

Join the Neighborhood Halloween Trick'n Treat Swap!

Add your name to this thread and you get a treat for your trick!
And we are not talking candy corn here!

Learn More Here: LivingAfterWLS Trick or Treat Swap!

Mrs.Dash Baked Chicken Siciliano

Hello Neighbors!
I am a big fan of Mrs. Dash seasoning blends because they are no-salt, no-MSG and they are tasty! The Mrs.Dash website has some terrific recipes and ideas for using the seasoning blends to punch-up ordinary meals. This recipe for Baked Chicken Siciliano comes from there and it is quick and delicious. Give it a try! For you 5 Day Pouch Testers this week save it for Day 5 or Day 6 forward. CHEERS!

Baked Chicken Siciliano

Ingredients:

• 4 tsp (20mL) Mrs. Dash® Classic Italiano Seasoning Blend, divided
• 15 Oz. (420g) can low sodium tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup (60mL) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 lb (908g) boneless, skinless, chicken breast halves

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine tomato sauce, 1 Tbsp. (15mL) Mrs. Dash® Classic Italiano, and 2 Tbsp. (30mL) Parmesan cheese in small bowl.
3. Coat chicken with mixture.
4. Place chicken in baking dish; sprinkle remaining 2 Tbsp. (30mL) Parmesan cheese and 1 tsp (5mL) Mrs. Dash® Classic Italiano over coated chicken.
5. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until chicken reaches 170°F (77°C).

Recipe Summary:

Serves: 8

Prep Time: 5 min

Cook Time: 35 min to 40 min

Nutritional Information:

Calories:152 % of Calories from Fat:12 % Total Fat:2 g Saturated Fat:1 g Unsaturated Fat:1 g Trans Fat:0 g Cholesterol:68 mg Sodium:126 mg Potassium:489 mg Carbohydrates:4 g Fiber:1 g Protein:28 g

low fat
low sodium
low carb

Recipe Rating:

12 Ratings / 6 Reviews

Hot Topics in The Neighborhood

Here are a few of our active conversations in the LivingAfterWLS Neighbor - your online safe haven circle of friends who are LIVING after Weight Loss Surgery:

Autumn Awareness Challenge

JohnnyBGood Down 100 Pounds!

5 Day Pouch Test Book: Coming November 5th!

Tell Us Your Nickname at Fun Friday

Exercise and Accountability Challenge

On-going Topic: Men and Weight Loss Surgery

Tricks for eating out with the "normal" eaters

Stop on over for a visit, sit and stay a spell. We always have room for new friends in our Neighborhood. Hope to see you soon!

Kaye

25-Years After WLS & the 5 Day Pouch Test

5 Day Pouch Test Website

One of the questions I often receive in emails: "Is it too late for me to do the 5 Day Pouch Test?" and usually it is from someone who is three to five years post-op weight loss surgery. Last week Stardust53 joined the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood to do the 5DPT and she is 25-years post-op. She successfully completed the five days and here is what she had to say:

Last week was life changing for me! LIFE CHANGING!!! It became a week in my life that I will NEVER forget. Through the process of the 5DPT, I was able to dropped 5-lbs! But more important than that, I regained an awareness of my pouch once again! My plans are to now take time figuring out why I eat the way I do. I use protein shakes as my nutrition, they have never been used as a supplement. But I get the feeling that, that is not common. I see that most of you use protein shakes only as a supplement. My next venture in here is to figure that out.

So alrightie, on to this week! It is time for me to give back! One thing that was most helpful last week was the encouragement that came in from others who are solid members inside the neighborhood! Oh, how I appreciated each one of you coming in to see us throughout the entire 5-days! Your words cheering us on kept us going through the whole process. Thanks a bunch!

My thoughts are though I am done with the 5DPT, I want to stay on in here with those who desire to use this thread as they go through their own journey with the 5DPT. I want to emulate my cheerleaders and become another one who can be counted on to be back to see how it is going for others who are now going through this same process. Last week, during times that I felt my weakest, I'd pop back in here and someone would have a post written out encouraging us along. This became the backbone of support we all needed!

If I am not mistaken, I think I know of three who are in their middle of their 5DPT. This would be shauna, DEBS2, and Deez. If I have missed anyone, please let me know that you are here too. My intention is not to overlook you, but I was gone yesterday and I am trying to get back on the same page. For those of you who are going through their 5-days, be sure to come in and post every single day letting us know how you are doing and what you are eating. I will be watching for your post. I hope your day is going well. It all goes so fast, so stay strong!

Read the entire conversation

Learn more about the 5 Day Pouch Test

Refresher Course: 5 Day Pouch Test Soups

We get a lot of questions about the soups for the 5 Day Pouch Test. Here is an explanation directly from our forthcoming book: The 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual. Many who have done the 5DPT and used the soups swear by them. Another question that I get frequently is, "Can I have the soups when I'm not doing the 5DPT?" The answer is a big resounding YES!

Link to the Soup Recipes

Soup Alternatives to Protein Shakes

The 5 Day Pouch Test calls for two days of protein rich liquids. Normally we think of ready-to-drink protein beverages or homemade concoctions using fruit, yogurt and protein powders. This is quite typical of the early post-op diet prescribed by many surgical weight loss centers. The 5DPT begins with two days of protein liquids in order to baby the pouch, much as we did immediately post-op. In addition, the liquids are useful in breaking a processed carbohydrate snacking habit or slider food addiction.

Ideally one would spend Days 1 and 2 drinking only protein drinks, clear broth, tea and water. However, depending on your food habits leading into the 5DPT this can be quite drastic causing hunger, dizziness and frustration. As I developed this plan I learned that more substantial soups made of animal protein, legumes, beans and low-glycemic vegetables work well to alleviate the discomfort of a liquid diet.

These satisfying soup recipes are made of foods low on the Glycemic Index: a measure of how your blood glucose levels are affected by food. That means they will stick with you without causing a rapid rise (and then drop) in blood glucose. These great comfort soups will help keep you feeling full longer, help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and provide you with more consistent energy throughout the day.

It is easy to confuse soup with slider foods since both are liquids that flow more rapidly through the stoma than solid protein. But the thing to remember is the soup recipes we recommend are nutrient dense. Slider foods such as crackers or pretzels washed down with liquids have no nutritional value.

A final note, the soup recipes we offer are less expensive than processed protein beverages and they are family friendly making the 5 Day Pouch Test more practical to incorporate into our busy schedules.

It's all happening in the Neighborhood

Autumn has arrived in the Northern Hemi and for me that means cool morning walks, beautiful colors as the leaves change and late-night tea in front of the fireplace. How are things in your neck of the woods? Our little calico, KeepHerKitty, is quite interested in the big round pumpkins just waiting to be carved.

In the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood the weather is always just right for over-the-fence chats and Neighborly friendship and support. Take a look at what is happening with your safe haven circle of friends:

Autumn Awareness Challenge

25-Year Post-Op does the 5DPT

A Pre-Op asks about Anger After WLS

Nutritionally Challenged? Check out the Six Must-Haves for Bariatric Patients

Ready to dig-deep on obesity? Read Of Monsters and Other Mind Games

Join us in the Neighborhood! There is always room at the fireplace and in the conversation for one more.

20gram Protein Drink! Refreshing!

Hello Neighbors!

Will we ever get tired of talking about protein drinks?

I have a new cocktail that is really tasty! And it is non-dairy. One reason I don't care much for most protein drinks is the texture of dairy and the digestive upset I get from dairy based food. Yesterday I came across Kellogg's "SpecialK2O Protein Water" that promises to take the edge off hunger. I purchased a 4-pack of tropical blend flavor. It cost $5.76 at Wal-Mart for the 4-Pack ($1.44/bottle). This morning I added 1 serving of the Bariceutical Total Protein to the Protein Water and served it over ice. All total it contained 20g protein and it was refreshingly delicious! It took about an hour to sip through beverage as it was 18 fluid ounces. But I don't feel hungry or thirsty and I have good energy.

Give it a try! Something new and tasty and good-for-me is always welcome in my kitchen!

Learn more about Bariceutical Liquid Vitamins for Weight Loss Surgery Patients

Clean Eating: It Works for Us

Every now and then a new product comes along and I think, "Wow! What a great idea." Well, just this week I held in hand my first copy of the Oxygen publication "Clean Eating" magazine. The subtitle: Improving your life one meal at a time.

Finally! A mainstream magazine we can use to support, benefit and enhance our post surgical weight loss surgery way of life.

Have you seen it yet?

I have in hand the Fall 2008 issue. Food TV star Robin Miller whips up a quick and healthy Balsamic-Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon (page 29). Delicious. There is a week's worth of dinners for the budgeted minded "clean eater" that truly look fit for a queen or king -- or at least a princess. Got kids in school? There is a great selection of 15-minute school night meals that are healthy AND delicious! See page 69. And if you think we (WLSers) are the only ones in the emotional eating trap think again. Read Peggy Hall's article (page 86) titled "Quit Fighting with Food." I sure learned a lot there.

Great magazine. I subscribed and then sent out several gift subscriptions. After all, we can all do a little clean eating to improve our health, nurture our families and give a little back to the planet. I hope you will take a look - this one is a keeper.

PS-- This is an unpaid and unsolicited endorsement. My only motivation here is sharing a treasure with you. Enjoy!

Men and Weight Loss Surgery: Social Stigma?

We are having an interesting discussion on the Men & Weight Loss Surgery Message Board in the Neighborhood. Our new member ScottL, who is considering surgical weight loss. He presented statistics from the American Obesity Association that indicate men are not necessarily less obese than women, yet a significantly smaller population of men than women have obesity surgery. Scott asks the question, "I am somewhat curious to know more about why men seem so much more reluctant to pursue WLS treatment even though they often suffer from all of the same co-morbidities that women do. Men aren't less obese than women so what's the deal?"

Visit the conversation in the Neighborhood and let us know what you think!

After WLS: Not What I Was Expecting

I read and write a lot about weight loss surgery, and more importantly, LIVING after weight loss surgery. Recently I received an email from a disappointed post-surgical weight loss patient. This patient had only lost 10 (ten) pounds. She was discouraged and anxious. And she was 7 (seven) days post surgery ready to give the 5 Day Pouch Test a try since "the surgery did not work for her." How sad and frustrating for her and me. She does not need to feel like a failure and my words of "be patient, let the surgery work" felt trite. There are many misconceptions about weight loss surgery that lead to disappointment. This is one of my syndicated articles that addresses this topic:

Misconceptions About Weight Loss Surgery Cause Disappointment for Patients
As weight loss surgery becomes an increasingly popular treatment for morbid obesity misconceptions abound. Patients who undergo gastric bypass or gastric banding surgeries are often depressed and disappointed after surgery because they believed the popular misconceptions.

Some common misconceptions about WLS:

Surgery brings joy and boundless energy instantaneously
Laparoscopic surgery is painless
WLS is an easy fix and permanent fix to obesity
WLS guarantees happiness
Others will support the WLS decision
After reaching goal weight patients can go "back to normal"

Because patients read about the joy and boundless energy enjoyed by others after surgery they assume these feelings occur immediately. Joy is felt after massive weight loss, not after surgery. In fact, for many patients the first six weeks out of surgery are emotionally draining as they grieve for food and feel fatigued and disoriented.

We read that the laparoscopic technique used for 85 percent of all surgical weight loss procedures is minimally invasive requiring little recovery time. In truth this technique bruises the intestines, liver and ribs. The surgery is painful and recovery is not as rapid as most patients expect. Patients express feelings of failure when they are sore and exhausted from surgery.

For most patients weight loss happens quickly and easily. True to dieting tradition when patients reach goal weight they tend to go back to “normal” disregarding the high-protein low-volume diet. Weight gain results. Unless patients follow the strict WLS rules daily they regain weight.

Surgical weight loss does not guarantee happiness. In fact, patients commonly describe feelings of anger, bitterness, resentment, panic and self-loathing as they lose weight. They also express happiness, satisfaction, pleasure, delight and self-love. The pendulum of emotions swings wide.

Having WLS exposes one to attacks from others who feel entitled to criticize the gluttonous sloth that we could not lose weight by eating less and exercising more. Not all people, including spouses, siblings, parents and friends will support the decision for WLS.

Read more about emotions and weight loss

Weight loss surgery is a lifetime commitment to an extremely restrictive lifestyle that if used successfully will enable a former morbidly obese person to maintain a healthy weight and diminish the co-morbidities of obesity. It should never be considered the “easy way out” or a “quick fix.” It is a lifetime commitment with no returning to normal.

9 Years Post Weight Loss Surgery

Hello Neighbors!

Today marks nine years since I was gut-whacked; uh, I mean had laporoscopic gastric bypass surgery in San Diego, California. Nine years. You know, some times I do not remember what it was like to be morbidly obese. Then again, most of the time I never forget what being overweight was like.

A couple of days ago I bought a new pair of denium jeans: size 8. I was pretty disgusted with myself since at my lowest weight I could wiggle into a size 4 and at my best and most consistent weight I was quite comfy in a size 6. "How could you let yourself go like this?" I asked myself. Do we ever get over being our own worst critic?

Size 8 isn't so bad. In fact, on September 13, 1999 if you told me in nine years you will be a healthy and fit size 8 I would have thought I won the lottery. Size 8 wasn't imaginable: I was wearing a size 26-28 the day I arrived.

I'm still learning to work my tool and still have struggles. I dumped a few weeks ago after eating onion rings: 3 of them. I know greasy food makes me dump. I ate them anyway. On Wednesday I ate my breakfast too quickly and did not chew-chew-chew. You guessed it: I gave it up minutes later.

But for every struggle there are successes. I can run and play with my new puppy and not get winded. I can walk three miles on the treadmill in under 40 minutes, and still have energy to clean the house or work in the gardens. I can walk past the bakery counter without even noticing my former mistress: the glazed doughnut. More often than not I need to remember to eat rather than remember not to eat. I feel good. I feel healthy: both mentally and physically.

Sure, I would love to be back in my size 6 clothes and trust me I have a small boutique full of size sixes. But, maybe size 8 isn't so bad afterall.

Meet Charvie: My New Puppy

I try to focus this blog on weight loss surgery. But you know? I'm human and here is a really cool thing. We have brought home a new puppy and he is a sweetheart bundle of love. The following is from my personal journal September 3:

The lights of our dog kennel building have been dark for two years, one month and two days. At twilight, on July 31, 2006 I shut the door to the building, not long after we buried our departed Howard, the Old English Sheepdog, of extraordinary joy and sensitive spirit.

Another dog? No. I could not imagine opening my heart to another canine love. Howard was my one and only.

When is the right time to find new love? How do we know when the heart has healed and we give ourselves permission to love again?

We turned the kennel lights on yesterday and swept away the cobwebs. Reminiscing, I washed the grooming brushes and the combs and the feeding bowls. I found new play toys and a couple training collars. We secured the fence and made the space ready.

And my heart opened, and Charvie came home to me.

Charvie, born May 25, 2008, is a show-quality Australian Shepherd pup born in a litter of four, proudly presented by his dame and sire to our good friends, the buffalo ranchers, Rex and Rhonda. Rhonda has been saving Charvie for me since he opened his eyes: you see, he is walleyed just like my beloved Howard: one blue eye; one brown eye.

"But the time is not right, Rhonda, I am too busy for a puppy," I told her over and over again. And she replied, persistently, "But this puppy is RIGHT for YOU. Open your heart, come meet him. You belong to him."

And so it was, love at first sight.
Charvie came home with me.

How do we know when the time is right for new love?
How do we keep an open heart?

I don't know the answers. But what I do know is that when I finally had the courage and gave Charvie the chance, I fell in love. And it was time to turn on the lights of that kennel building and let my heart love again.

Welcome home Charvie – You Have Arrived. And I am so happy you are here.

PS: The name Charvie is a derivative of Charlie and Harvey: my husband's two best friends who left this earth much too young. Wherever you are Charlie and Harvey, hold the faith: you are riding shotgun again.

Delicious Wine Reductions for Cool Autumn Nights

So we've had weight loss surgery and are happily losing weight with a restricted diet and the improved ability to exercise. But you know, we didn't have taste bud surgery! We still have taste buds that crave delicious foods - we just want the foods we eat to be satiating and good for us.

Let me tell you a culinary secret - it's in the wine! I'm not talking about wine in the glass, I'm talking about wine in a recipe. Wine reductions are wonderfully simply to make, rich in flavor and can be low in fat. Most recipes for wine reductions call for added fat (butter) but should be adjusted to use about 1/3 the fat called for.

We know that most gravies are fat laden, heavy with starch and lacking nutritional value. Simply put gravy is empty fat calories we do not need in our LivingAfterWLS diet. Anyone watching their weight is wise to avoid gravies (particularly mass-produced gravies served in restaurants).

For a better flavor and health select or make a wine reduction. A reduction contains the wine's antioxidants, called flavonoids which are proven to reduce the production of LDL (bad) cholesterol and boost the HDL (good) cholesterol. Scientists now believe these flavonoids may also inhibit tumor development in some cancers and may also be helpful in the treatment of neurological diseases.

Not an alcohol drinker? Not to worry, the alcohol cooks out of the reduction leaving nothing but the good stuff behind. If you are not familiar with wine ask your wine merchant to recommend a good bottle of reasonably priced cooking wine (don't buy the kind on the supermarket shelf - it has too much sodium). Your wine steward can also offer suggestions for re-corking the wine as seldom will you use a full bottle for any single recipe.

For five delicious wine reduction recipes visit the LivingAfterWLS Kitchen

Chicken with White Wine and Mushrooms
Seared Halibut with Green Beans, Scallions and White Wine Sauce
Salmon with Mushrooms and Red Wine Sauce
Beef Medallions in Red Wine Sauce
Cornish Game Hen with Raspberry Red Wine Sauce

I've personally tried and adapted these recipes to have lower fat while preserving the delicious flavor and texture of a reduction. I hope you will incorporate a wine reduction recipe in your lifestyle. Also - these are all very quick to fix - you'll be surprised how much flavor you get for so little effort! Cheers!

DishNetwork & DirectTV Suffer Service Standards

Hello Neighbors!

Normally I do not use this space to voice my concerns or complaints about commerce.

However: I am fed up! I am exasperated with "customer support" and "call centers" to be exact. Where o'where has the service gone?

We have recently been Dish Network customers: disappointed by their highly inferior customer service and disinterest in customer satisfaction. Calls for help are put on hold or answered by non-English speaking people: or worse? Dropped. Call for help? Go talk to the boy who cried wolf - he has better advice. I get the message, "Screw you, you stupid paying customer."

In June we changed to Direct TV, our experience with Dish Network so disappointing. A sweetheart in the Midwest promised (with a drawl) "Oh honey: we never outsource our support calls." Oh honey? What is it in the south that makes your blatant lies so convincing?

So tonight we are having technical difficulty with DirectTV: we have a signal on one receiver; snowy signal on the other. I held the phone for more than 27 minutes listening to trashy low-rent porn music when calling the proudly provided "customer service" number. Minute 28? The call was dropped. Funny thing? I tried calling the same number with another phone, one not on the account. Go figure? Got transferred to a "sales representative" within 30 seconds. When I explained my technical difficulty with a paying account a surprising thing happened: the call got dropped. "Can you hear me now?"

They dropped the call from a paying (friggin' PAYING) customer.

DishNetwork or DirectTV? One in the same. Great sales staff. Technical problems: goodbye consumer! Just send us your check and then go to the black hole.

Fix it folks. Dish and Direct: get your crap together.

American Consumers! Take it to Congress. Sue the crap out of corporate America.
I'm sick of it. Don't transfer my damn call. Give me what I'm paying for.

Fix it. Put a sensible person on your desk and teach them to answer calls. Don't put me on hold. Let me know that my reliable payment is worth more than a hope and a prayer your service is going to work for me.

Do you have problems with paid television? Let's hear about it.

Savory Raspberry Salad

Hello Neighbors!

In my part of the world the raspberries are in harvest - oh what a beautiful day! Nature's rubies. Raspberries are a great source of Vitamin C, fiber, and pectin that is known to lower cholesterol. Best eaten right out there in the raspberry patch as they are picked, raspberries are a summertime favorite of mine. Raspberries and blackberries are odd little sweets: soft, furry, hollow when picked, each little berry-cell contains a small seed. New surgical weight loss patients should pass on fresh raspberries to avoid lodging a seed in their new pouch or the incisions that created it. About a year after surgery it is safe to test berries for your tolerance, following, of course, the guidelines provided by your surgical center.

If you have an abundance of raspberries give this Savory Berry Salad a try. Add a piece of grilled chicken or grilled fish for a complete nutritious and delicious meal. Enjoy!

Savory Berry Salad

Ingredients:
1/4 cup raspberry vinegar or balsamic vinegar
4 teaspoons olive oil
2 teaspoons honey
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
8 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup thinly sliced celery
1 cup raspberries
1 cup blackberries
1 cup yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
2 ounces mild goat cheese, crumbled

Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Arrange the greens on four salad plates. Top with the fennel, raspberries, blackberries, tomatoes, and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing.

Per Serving: 170 calories, 5g protein, 8g fat, 5g dietary fiber.

For more summer salad recipes visit the LivingAfterWLS Kitchen - Salads

What's Your Rhythm?

Over at the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood in WLS Chat we have been talking about the 2B1B Rhythm. Do you know what that is? It is a method of counting food bites to make sure you get 66% protein and 33% complex carbohydrates. With the 2B1B Rhythm it is assumed that one has made a low-fat selection food choice and that processed or "white" carbs are not on the plate.

Our Ambassador of Reception "N A" was first to identify the acronym as 2 Bites Protein; 1 Bite Carbs. The conversation has continued as others have identified their own rhythms. Celadon said, "This is the first time I have seen this thread. I am more of a 3B1B person but I just really feel like I still need the protein more. Silly stuff tends to keep us focused now doesn't it?"

I added, I'm loving the 2B1B Rhythm conversation!!! And it looks like we all have rhythm - - - just different rhythms. Honestly, I've found the 2B1B Rhythm to be less intimidating and more user friendly than calorie counting or clock watching or any of the other gimmicks I have employed in weight loss/weight maintenance efforts.

Ahhhh, but with any good rhythm, one must listen for the ending notes. The final curtain call. The last fork standing.

What is the curtain call on your personal fork dance? Click to learn how the Neighbors are dancing to the rhythm of the fork!

Randy Jackson Diet Book Coming Soon!

Randy Jackson

As reported in OK Magazine Randy Jackson, who had gastric bypass in 2003 and lost 150 pounds, announced the forthcoming publication of his own diet book, "The No-Nonsense Guide to Getting Fit, Eating Better, and Living Longer" due out in November.

Jackson 51, who announced this year that he has Type II diabetes, says he has tried every diet under the Sun, and he swears that his new approach holds the key to the "new you".

In the diet blog community this publication is being met with great skepticism. At Diet Blog Gerald "Gerry" Pugliese says, "If you were looking for an ambassador for healthy living, you might not make a beeline for Randy Jackson." The comments are even more critical. Gwendolyn writes, "I'm sorry, someone who failed at life and had to get a gastric bypass and is **still fat** should never ever write anything about dieting and nutrition."

I don't know Mr. Jackson personally, but I do know that weight loss and weight maintenance is a challenge with or without surgical weight loss. Mr. Jackson is not the first person to struggle with weight control after gastric bypass and he will not be the last. I say kudos to the man! I hope his book makes real the struggles with weight control and healthy living. I hope it inspires others who may have struggled with weight control after surgical weight loss.

Take a look at the 5 Day Pouch Test message board in the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood - Randy Jackson is not the only person who still struggles with weight control after a surgical weight loss procedure.

Best to you Randy Jackson. I wish you splendid success with your forthcoming book and look forward to reading it.

What are your thoughts? Is Randy Jackson a qualified authority to write about fitness, diet and longevity?

And for those struggling with weight regain after weight loss surgery: Please visit the 5 Day Pouch Test website and learn a way to take control of your surgical tool.

Woman Loses 100#s with 5 Day Pouch Test

5 Day Pouch Test Ambassador Gretchen
100 Pounds Lost with the 5DPT and Day 6

5 Day Pouch Test Homepage

It has been nearly a year since I first introduced the 5 Day Pouch Test to our LivingAfterWLS community and what a phenomena it is. In today's Bulletin you will read about Gretchen who has lost 100 pounds since doing the 5DPT last September. You will learn from her that there is always hope and grit determination goes a long way to help us reach our goals. Gretchen, our 5 Day Pouch Test Ambassador has lost a whopping 100 pounds in just 9 months. Read her own words:

"I did it - I've lost 100 pounds on the 5DPT and Day 6 Eating Plan !
It took me about 9 months - not bad, being 6 years post-op.
Kaye, how can I ever thank you enough ???
And to all the Neighbors who have put up with me since September, I
thank you all, too. I couldn't have done it without you.

How have I done it ???????

I've followed the 4 Rules,
I've listened to others.
I've been honest with myself and my Neighbors.
I've asked for help when I needed it.
I've followed the 5DPT and Day 6 Plan to the best of my ability,
and I've put my faith in these 2 plans.
I've shared what I've learned with others.
I've had FUN along the way!

Thank you everyone, for being a part of this."

Read the full conversation in the Neighborhood

As the 5DPT has become somewhat a "cult phenomena" in the surgical weight loss world I've noticed two things: one was predictable the other was a pleasant surprise. The first thing I've noticed is most people do the 5DPT beginning on Monday and concluding on Friday. Makes sense as most of us lead structured lives M-F and the 5DPT is about structure. The second thing that awes me is the spirit of collaboration and community in the Neighborhood when one person invites another to join them in the 5DPT ride. This spontaneous and sincere bonding has resulted in great results for many, but more importantly genuine friendships are formed. Please visit the 5 Day Pouch Test Message Board: anyone who is struggling with a weight regain or weight loss stall will surely find support and comfort knowing they are not alone.

Read what Gina "Montana Girl" wrote:

I have to tell you (through teary, blurred vision) that this 5dpt saved my life. I thought I was the only person to have ever regained. I was so depressed I was not a good mom, wife or friend. I was spiralling into oblivion with my weight gain.
I can never repay you for the valuable lessons I have learned while in your neighborhood, for the 5dpt that helped me regain control over my mind and body. I did the 5dpt 2 months ago to the day and I've gone on to lose 27 pounds on "day 6". Again, crying, you are my hero, a goddess. Honestly. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

Visit the 5 Day Pouch Test Message Board Today!

Red Lion Inn Smoked Salmon

More Fish & Seafood

Our Recipe of the Week yesterday featured terrific appetizers for outdoor picnics and parties. Summer is time for casual entertaining using fresh ingredients and easy preparation. Here is another healthy appetizer to enjoy when you are outdoor entertaining.

Learn about the nutritional value of fish protein

Red Lion Inn Smoked Salmon
This is a quick and showy appetizer adapted from the Red Lion Inn Cookbook. The sour cream mixture is particularly refreshing in the heat of Summer. Pre-sliced cocktail pumpernickel bread is available in most supermarkets near the deli counter. It is a good source of B-Vitamins and fiber and tastes great with the salmon and spread.

Ingredients:
1 cup sour cream
8 teaspoons coarse grain mustard
4 teaspoons fresh dill (chopped)
1 small red onions (sliced very thin)
4 teaspoons capers
8 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon (about 8 slices)
pumpernickel cocktail bread

Directions:
In a small mixing bowl combine the sour cream, coarse grain mustard and dill.

On a large tray place the bread slices in a single layer. Coat each slice with about 1 teaspoon of the sour cream mixture. Top with a few onion slices and then a piece of smoked salmon. Add a small dollop of the cream mixture to the top and garnish with the capers and more fresh dill if desired.

Serves 16 - two appetizers each. Per serving: 90 calories, 5 grams protein, 4 grams fat (2 saturated), 9 grams carbohydrate 1 gram dietary fiber.

Refresher course: 4 Rules for Weight Loss Surgery Success

New Vitamin Bundle at Bariceuticals

Silvia Demeter, our friend and founder of the made-just-for-us Bariceuticals™ liquid vitamins has put together a new product bundle. Called "Cathy's Choice" the kit includes a 30 Day Supply of our famous liquid multi-vitamins and our pharmaceutical grade sublingual B-12 complex spray. You will also receive 30 day supply of our exclusive iron tabs. In this kit you will so receive a free sample of total protein. This is affordable priced at just $99 for the months supply.

Bariceuticals™ vitamins have been specifically formulated to be absorbed by surgical weight loss patients. Silvia tells us, "Our patent pending Bariceuticals™ are the only complete liquid nutritional supplementation system that is completely formulated ingredient by ingredient to target the unique absorption needs of bariatric patients. With this system you will consume only the ingredients that the body is lacking, or will lack shortly after surgery. We do not use unnecessary ingredients that can bind together or cancel each other out, thus causing a void of nutrients."

When we undergo weight loss surgery we are told that our bodies will not absorb vitamins and nutrients the same way as one without surgery. Many people opt to take inexpensive multi-vitamins and often they report feeling weary, lifeless, sad and unenergized. That is because they are nutrient deficient. Silvia says, "The liquid format of Bariceuticals™ has an absorption rate of 80 to 90% in the upper intestine where nutrients are most readily absorbed. Our goal is to educate you, our consumer, on Bariceuticals™. We know that an educated bariatric patient is our best customer."

Learn more Facts

Silvia is genuinely concerned about our best health after WLS and she easily recalls the days and months following her own surgical weight loss when she felt lethargic and lifeless. That is how she came to be the founder of this quality nutritional supplement: she herself wanted to feel better. She says, "We at Bariceuticals™ want nothing more than for you to absolutely love the new you. You deserve to feel and look great. To that end we ask you to give Bariceuticals™ a two to three week trial period. You will feel a difference, in a week’s time. If your body is extremely deficient your trial phase may take two weeks. At the end of your trial phase, if you don't absolutely love Bariceuticals™, please return the unused portion for a full refund - including shipping cost. We are that confident that you will embrace Bariceuticals™."

Read some product Testimonials

Sugar Tolerance: Does it Change

Over at the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood we had a great question from our Neighbor Paula. She wants to know if our tolerance for sugar can change with the 5 Day Pouch Test. Take a look:

Question from Paula:
"Before the 5DPT, I could eat almost anything and not have a problem. (Which is where part of my problem came in and why I did the 5dpt.) The other night I ate a graham cracker with some peanut butter . . . . . and DUMP AWAY. Boy, was I sick. Is it common for your body to go back to not tolerating any sugar?"

My Answer:
As for the dumping!! Glad you experienced that -- and I don't mean that unkindly. It is just another testiment that once we clean-up our diet our bodies are eager to tell us when we feed it something it doesn't need or want. I receive lots of letters from people who say, "I don't get THE DUMPING anymore" and when we drill down we discover they are feeding their body a steady stream of white carbs which puts the blood sugar in a low-grade dump so it is not noticed. What is noticed is fatigue, cravings and weight gain. So when a person goes from a constant state of low-grade dump through the 5 Day Pouch Test they get out of the processed carb cycle. Like you, if they return to a formerly "safe" food their body does a big booty kick with a serious dump.

So the short answer - Yes it is possible to build a tolerance for sugar, BUT, it is also possible to return to a state of sugar intolerance.

Read the full discussion and learn more about sugar tolerance and intolerance.

31 New Recipes for LivingAfterWLS

Have you visited the LivingAfterWLS Kitchen lately? We have just added over 30 new recipes for your culinary enjoyment and healthy lifestyle.

At left is our Neighborhood favorite, Parmesan Tuna Patties served with mango. Good for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Coddled Eggs

I have joined the highly esteemed group of Neighborhood Coddlers thanks to Celadon & Lynn - Look! Celadon taught Lynn and I how to coddle eggs while we at our Director's Meeting. They are so delicious and soft on the tummy. I am thrilled to join the Coddlers. These two are Royal Worcester made in England. The pattern is perfect: berries and blossoms. What an honor to receive such a thoughtful gift - and a surprise no less. Thanks Ladies - Much appreciated.

Link to learn all about Coddling

LivingAfterWLS Food Editor Reaches Goal Weight!

Barbara (left) and Lynn (right) at the LivingAfterWLS Directors' Meeting:

Our good Neighbor and LivingAfterWLS Food Editor Celadon (Barbara Gibbons) has reached her weight loss goal!!! And she is just too darn sweet and modest to post about it. Registered member read about it in her blog: About Goal and Maintenance.

I consider Barbara my dear friend and power player in the LivingAfterWLS community. I can assure you, my darling Neighbors, that she always Always ALWAYS lives the best LivingAfterWLS way of life possible. She is an eager student, an over-achiever, and a down-to-earth sweetheart who believes in the best of all of us.

Congratulations Celadon --- You Have Arrived (in style!)!

High Protein Diet After Surgical Weight Loss

Gastric Bypass Patients Succeed Eating High Protein Diet
By Kaye Bailey

(At left: Hoisin-Glazed Chicken Breasts) The first rule for successful weight loss and weight maintenance after Weight Loss Surgery (WLS) is Protein First – that means eating protein for three daily meals, and protein must be 50 percent of food intake. Some bariatric centers advise as much as 70 grams of protein a day. The gastric bypass diet should be high-protein, low-carbohydrate and low-volume. This is what successful WLS patients will eat for the rest of their life if they wish to maintain weight loss after surgery.

Animal products are the most nutrient rich source of protein and include fish, poultry and meat. Dairy protein, including eggs, is another excellent source of protein. Nuts and legumes are also good sources of protein, but sometimes difficult for the bariatric patient to consume. Tofu is another remarkable good source of vegetable protein and there are many quality flavorful products on the market for making it easy to incorporate into the diet.

Science is proving that a protein rich diet will prompt weight loss and increase energy. The body contains over fifty-thousand different active proteins all made out of the same building blocks: amino acids. Amino acids are made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen as well as sulfur, phosphorus and iron. Many diseases – including obesity – indicate an amino acid deficiency.

WLS patients do not have the luxury of eating high-carbohydrate foods. They must eat lean protein or they will get sick, anemic, and weary. Weight loss will cease if patients eat processed carbohydrates instead of lean protein. Dumping or vomiting may also result if patients do not eat lean protein for the first half of every meal.

The distinction must be made between high fat proteins and lean proteins. A gastric bypass patient cannot tolerate high fat proteins such as bacon, fatty beef or sausage products or greasy fried chicken: these foods cause nausea and vomiting. In fact, many WLS patients report even smelling high fat foods, such a fried chicken, makes them nauseous. In addition, these high fat protein rich items are contributors to obesity, clogged arteries and heart disease. High fat foods should be avoided by anyone wishing to control their weight.

Kaye Bailey © 2005 - All Rights Reserved

Check out the Community Kitchen for some Protein, Protein, Protein! New recipes this week!

LivingAfterWLS Cookbook

ON SALE NOW!!

$18.00 + $3.95 Shipping & Handling

300 Recipes - 175 Pages - Spiral Bound

For WLS Patients - By WLS Patients

Learn More & Order Online
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"Normal" Recipes in the Kitchen

The LivingAfterWLS "Normal" eating is a diet of clean, lean protein; nutrient rich vegetable and fruit carbohydrates; healthy fats; limited grains, processed carbohydrates and sweets. It is easy to get into a rut of safe or predictable food. The danger with a food rut is boredom which may lead to eating that falls out of the "normal" diet. At LivingAfterWLS we have recently remodeled our online Kitchen with many new terrific recipes that will bring variety to your normal eating. The recipes are nicely organized and easy to follow.

At right: Orange and Fennel Salad from Palermo
Photo by Barbara Gibbons

Try some of my favorites:
Chicken Piccata
Halibut with White Wine Sauce
Beef Osso Buco
Chocolate Spice Brownies
Spinach Asparagus Salad

Visit the LivingAfterWLS Kitchen Today!

Chicken & Artichoke Casserole

Catsroomie, one of the excellent weight loss surgery cooks in the Neighborhood recently posted this recipe for Chicken & Artichoke Casserole:

Just came across this recipe on Allrecipes.com and it sounds delicious. Haven't tried it yet, but I plan to this weekend.


Artichoke Chicken

INGREDIENTS
1 (15 ounce) can artichoke hearts, well drained and chopped (marinated preferred)
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 pinch garlic pepper
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2. In a medium bowl, mix together the artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and garlic pepper. Place chicken in a greased baking dish, and cover evenly with artichoke mixture.

3. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until chicken is no longer pink in the center and juices run clear.

Mastercook nutritionals Per Serving for 4 servings (I'm figuring it would make 8 for WLSers): 667 Calories; 53g Fat (69.3% calories from fat); 41g Protein; 12g Carbohydrate; 6g Dietary Fiber; 119mg Cholesterol; 706mg Sodium. Exchanges: 5 Lean Meat; 2 Vegetable; 3 1/2 Fat.

There were a couple of suggestions added: Drain the artichokes well, squeezing as much liquid out as possible; use half sour cream in place of half the mayonnaise; add some crumbled bacon.

It's relatively low carb. If you're concerned about the fat content, you could make modifications to lower the fat.

I tried this recipe with a minor modification to lower the fat and it was FANTASTIC! Husband even commented that he was pleased there would be leftovers. To lower the fat I omitted the mayonnaise and used 1 10.75-ounce can Campbells Healthy Request Cream of Chicken Soup to reduce the fat.

For more great recipes and community help with healthy modifications visit the LivingAfterWLS Community Kitchen.

June Fruit & Veggies

Have you been to the Community Kitchen in the Neighborhood lately? There is lots of good stuff cooking that feeds our weight loss surgery tummies well. Our LivingAfterWLS Food & Nutrition Director, Barbara Gibbons is busy adding new recipes, product reviews and nutritional know-how to our growing collection of information.

This month she features Pluots© and Apriums© in the "Fruit of the Month" topic. These are new to me and I look forward to adding them to my healthy diet. In the Vegetable of the Month topic she features the southern, Creole and Cajun favorite: Okra. Be sure to link through and learn why these fruits and vegetables play an important role in our healthy LivingAfterWLS way of life.

Reminder: The LivingAfterWLS "Normal" eating: Normal for us means clean, lean protein; nutrient rich vegetable and fruit carbohydrates; healthy fats; limited grains, processed carbohydrates and sweets.