I have put alot of things on the back burner lately, including my blogging. I have been very busy with an animal rescue I work with & even tho the kiddos are back in school, I am still watching my 6 mo. old grandson & running ragged most days. I was excited when I realized I hadn't weighed myself in a while & when I did I was down to 170lbs! It was Sunday morning when I was getting dressed. I had a dog rescue adoption event all weekend & I had worn a favorite pair of shorts & top on Saturday. A friend mentioned it was time for me to buy some clothes that fit. I looked in the mirror when I went to the restroom & really paid attention to the clothes I was wearing.. they really were too big! I can well remember when they were too tight for me to wear & how good I felt when I could actually wear them without feeling self conscious. Now they hang on me & when I hold them out to the side they are very baggy! When did this happen? Why do I not see the difference as well as others do? I look in the mirror & I see the me I have always seen. I do not notice very much difference in my body size/weight. It is difficult for me to buy clothes because I pick out the wrong sizes & hate running back & forth to the fitting room, so I take them home & end up returning them later.
I remember when I had lost weight once before & was shopping at Lane Bryant, the salesgirl was helping me & suggested I try some tops I liked in a smaller size because the ones I tried on were too big. I didn't look at the size she got me, tried them on & liked the way they fit. She told me soon I wouldn't be able to shop there anymore because those were the smallest size they had.. I panicked & said "Oh no! Where am I supposed to shop??!" She answered me.. anywhere you want to! I had shopped there for over 20 years. I avoided regular clothing stores because most didn't carry sizes big enough for me. I couldn't process the thought that I could shop somewhere else, I could go to any store & find clothes that fit me.. it is still hard for me to accept that.
So I have hit another Big "O"!! I am at a weight I have not been in over about 25 years. That seems so surreal to me. I am still waiting to wake up & be at my heaviest weight again.. but I am so thankful I am not dreaming, that the woman I see in the mirror is really me.
TRUTH: Although the weight loss going slow is frustrating, it is happening & is more likely to stay off than if I dropped weight really fast & I didn't have to work at it.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Retraining my brain!
This journey is as much about self discovery as it is about rebirth, rejuvenation, rethinking what we have been taught & exposed to our whole lives. I am retraining my brain. I am having to prove to myself on a daily basis that I am worth it. That I am so much more than my past & my upbringing. This may sound dramatic to some, but most of you know exactly what I mean. It is an internal switch that we often overlook or tend to think we cannot switch off, or I guess more acurately.. switch back on.
I have had to take a firm stance with myself. I have had to treat my inner self like I would a close friend. Doing what I know is best even when I am often met with resistance! I struggled for over a week without any weight loss. The half pound I finally lost was hard won. I was back on my scale addiction, beating myself up emotionally if it went up at all or stayed the same. That defeated my morale, made me feel like I was failing. That in turn made we want to give up, buy a huge gallon of ice cream & eat the whole thing. Self soothing, self medicating, self destruction.
Somehow my switch flipped. I cannot define the moment or the reason. I just know that something within me changed. I felt the surge of refusal to give up, to let go. I felt the need to love myself enough to take that next step forward rather than backward. I do not kid myself that there won't be further struggles to make the right choices, or to still beat myself up when I make the wrong ones. But I think the choices will become easier & I will not be so quick to give in to the old habits of self sabotage.
I have found that ridding my environment of the carbs & sugars that I once craved has really helped me over that edge. I can get things that the kids enjoy now & have no desire to eat them. I still have occasion to be reminded that there are limitations that may never change. I went to dinner last night & made the mistake of thinking a piece of bread would be no big deal. On it's own it may not have been, but bread swells quickly once swallowed.. add liquid & it swells even more.. that blocks the band opening & anything you eat after that will most likely come back up. It really spoiled my dinner. As well as not being able to finish the Sangria I drank with the bread. I know better. It was a choice without thought. An impulse reaction to the smell of hot, fresh bread. I doubt I will make that mistake again any time soon! That bread was not worth it! I would have enjoyed the rest of my meal more than I did that piece of bread. It is what it is & all part of the retraining of my brain.
TRUTH: Proof to myself it is worth the work.. weight today 174!
I have had to take a firm stance with myself. I have had to treat my inner self like I would a close friend. Doing what I know is best even when I am often met with resistance! I struggled for over a week without any weight loss. The half pound I finally lost was hard won. I was back on my scale addiction, beating myself up emotionally if it went up at all or stayed the same. That defeated my morale, made me feel like I was failing. That in turn made we want to give up, buy a huge gallon of ice cream & eat the whole thing. Self soothing, self medicating, self destruction.
Somehow my switch flipped. I cannot define the moment or the reason. I just know that something within me changed. I felt the surge of refusal to give up, to let go. I felt the need to love myself enough to take that next step forward rather than backward. I do not kid myself that there won't be further struggles to make the right choices, or to still beat myself up when I make the wrong ones. But I think the choices will become easier & I will not be so quick to give in to the old habits of self sabotage.
I have found that ridding my environment of the carbs & sugars that I once craved has really helped me over that edge. I can get things that the kids enjoy now & have no desire to eat them. I still have occasion to be reminded that there are limitations that may never change. I went to dinner last night & made the mistake of thinking a piece of bread would be no big deal. On it's own it may not have been, but bread swells quickly once swallowed.. add liquid & it swells even more.. that blocks the band opening & anything you eat after that will most likely come back up. It really spoiled my dinner. As well as not being able to finish the Sangria I drank with the bread. I know better. It was a choice without thought. An impulse reaction to the smell of hot, fresh bread. I doubt I will make that mistake again any time soon! That bread was not worth it! I would have enjoyed the rest of my meal more than I did that piece of bread. It is what it is & all part of the retraining of my brain.
TRUTH: Proof to myself it is worth the work.. weight today 174!
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Scaling Down!
For 1 week I have stayed off my scale. I was becoming so obsessed with the numbers & caught up with losing/not losing that I was driving myself crazy! So this morning I stepped on & was delighted to see 176.5!! I finally feel like I am "getting it". I find I am not snacking or worrying so much about eating. I eat 2-3 times per day, I'm just not watching the clock to see if it is time to eat yet. I am listening to my body & when I actually feel hungry. I am eating little to no carbs. I really try to stick to a game plan for cooking & eating each day. I am going to try to stay off my scale!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Onederland & the Big "0"
Most people who have WLS(weight loss surgery) are 2-400 pounds. Onederland is getting below 200.. into the 199 & below range.. ONE-derland. I was 210 when I was banded. It didn't take me long to get to onederland. It has gone alot slower for me to get to the big "0"s.. that is my goal phrase for each 10 lbs that will get me down the scale. I passed 190 a few months ago.. today I hit the next big "0".. 180!!
That number would probably make alot of women happy. My Dr. said that isn't a bad weight for some women.. women who are taller than 5 ft 1.5 inches! My height is my downfall! Not really.. my downfall was my DNA mixed with emotional baggage. I am on a mission to correct that! I can't change my DNA, but I can change what I do about it. They say the lower you get on the scale, the harder it is to lose the weight. I am keeping my goals simple, every big "0" is a big deal. Then I head to the next one. If I look at the big picture.. 60ish more pounds to go.. it seems overwhelming. I look at having lost 30 pounds so far. It took me almost 9 months! But that was not 9 months of rigidly following the program. It also included major neck surgery & recovery. So I hope gettng to the next big "0" goes a bit quicker. Whatever your goals are, keep them simple. If it is a big goal, break it down to more attainable steps, rather than one huge mountain to climb.
Truth: I had lost weight before & was 180lbs a couple years ago before my hysterectomy. The next Big "0" is the really big one.. I have not weighed 170 in over 20 years!
That number would probably make alot of women happy. My Dr. said that isn't a bad weight for some women.. women who are taller than 5 ft 1.5 inches! My height is my downfall! Not really.. my downfall was my DNA mixed with emotional baggage. I am on a mission to correct that! I can't change my DNA, but I can change what I do about it. They say the lower you get on the scale, the harder it is to lose the weight. I am keeping my goals simple, every big "0" is a big deal. Then I head to the next one. If I look at the big picture.. 60ish more pounds to go.. it seems overwhelming. I look at having lost 30 pounds so far. It took me almost 9 months! But that was not 9 months of rigidly following the program. It also included major neck surgery & recovery. So I hope gettng to the next big "0" goes a bit quicker. Whatever your goals are, keep them simple. If it is a big goal, break it down to more attainable steps, rather than one huge mountain to climb.
Truth: I had lost weight before & was 180lbs a couple years ago before my hysterectomy. The next Big "0" is the really big one.. I have not weighed 170 in over 20 years!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
"The" Rules of Life with a Lap band
10 important rules
Here are ten rules of Lap Band Surgery Diet for eating, drinking and exercise that will help you get the best results you can with the LAP-BAND System. How willing you are to follow a new way of eating is key to making the operation a success.
1. Eat only three small meals a day
2. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly (15-20 times a bite)
3. Stop eating as soon as you feel full
4. Do not drink while you are eating
5. Do not eat between meals
6. Eat only good quality food
7. Avoid fibrous food
8. Drink enough fluids during the day
9. Drink only low-calorie fluids
10. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
Eat only three small meals a day
The LAP BAND System creates a small stomach pouch that can hold only about half a cup of food. If you try to eat more than this at one time you may become nauseated or vomit. If you routinely eat too much, the small pouch may stretch. That will cancel the effect of the operation. Frequent vomiting can also cause certain complications, such as stomach slippage. You need to learn how much your stomach pouch can hold comfortably and then not exceed this amount.
Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
Food can pass through the new stoma only of it has been into very small pieces. Always remember to take more time for your meals and chew your food very well.
Stop eating as soon as you feel full
Once your stomach is full, your body receives a signal that you have eaten enough. It takes time, though, for you to become aware of this signal. If you rush through your meal, you may eat more than you need. This can lead to nausea and vomiting. Take time to eat your meal. Try to recognize the feeling the fullness - then stop eating at once.
Do not drink while you are eating
This operation can work only if you eat solid food. If you drink at mealtimes, the food you have eaten becomes liquid and the effectiveness of the LAP-BAND System is greatly reduced. You should not drink anything for one to two hours after a meal. This allows you to keep the feeling of fullness as long as possible.
Do not eat between meals
After a meal, do not eat anything else until the next meal. Eating snacks between meals is one of the major reasons for weight-loss failure. It is very important to break this habit. Patients with proper "fill" levels do not feel hungry in between meals. If you are, this may be a sign that your band is too loose and you should tell your clinician.
Eat only good quality food
With the LAP-BAND System in place, you should be able to able to eat only a small amount so the the food you eat should be as healthy as possible. Do not fill your small stomach pouch with junk food that lacks vitamins and other important nutrients. Your meals should be high in protein and vitamins. Fresh vegetables, fruit, meat and cereals are good foods to choose. Foods high in fat and sugar are not. You may eat apples and oranges, but try to avoid orange juice and and apple juice. Ask your doctor or dietician before you take any vitamin supplements.
Avoid fibrous food
Food such as asparagus that contains many fibers can block the stoma. That's because you can't chew this food well enough to break it up into small pieces and your saliva can't break it down. Fibrous food should be avoided. If you would like to eat asparagus or other fibrous foods once in a while, then you must be sure to cook them well, cut them into very small pieces and them chew them thoroughly.
Drink enough fluids during the day
If you lose weight, your fat content will drop. This results in waste products. You will need to drink large amounts of liquid every day in order to urinate more and excrete these waste products from your body. Individual needs will vary, but you should drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.
Drink only low-calorie liquids. Drinks, including those containing calories, simply run through the narrow outlet created by the band. If you drink liquids high in calories, you will lose little weight, even if you otherwise follow your diet.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
This rule is just as important as the other nine rules. Since physical exercise consumes energy and burns calories, it is very important to successful weight loss. Exercise can help improve your general health. Your size may make it hard for you to exercise as much as you should. But get started, even if it is a little at first. The more weight you lose, the easier it should get. Start with simple exercises such as walking and swimming. Gradually expand you program to include more vigorous forms of exercise such as cycling, jogging and aerobics.
Increase your activity level in the course of daily living. For example, stand rather than sit, walk rather than stand, be outside rather than inside, walk rather than drive, climb the stairs rather than use the elevator, etc. Remember you should always check with your doctor about the amount and type of exercise that is best for you.
Food Choices
Use this section to help you plan what you eat. you may choose what you would like from each of these food groups on a daily basis:
Fruits and vegetable
1 to 2 servings of fresh fruit daily
2 to 3 servings of fresh vegetable daily
Bread and Cereals
1 small portion of corn flakes for breakfast
1 to 2 slices of whole wheat or rye bread each day
Meat, Fish, Poultry, Eggs
1 oz. to 2 oz. of meat, fish or poultry or one egg each day (remove all visible fat from the meat. remove the ski from poultry. Grilling, steaming, microwaving or boiling are best ways to prepare them with low fat).
Dairy Products
Milk and yogurt are calories in liquid form. In theory, then, they should be avoided. But these types of food have calcium. That makes them an important part of a healthy daily diet. Choose a maximum of 2 cups of skimmed milk or low-fat yogurt and 1 oz. of cheese a day.
Fats
Restrict the use of fat to 3 to 4 teaspoons of margarine, butter or oil per day. You can have low-fat salad dressing and mayonnaise in moderation.
Drink as many calorie-free liquids per day as you wish. Suitable drinks are:
Tea or black coffee with low-calorie sweetener
Water
Non-carbonated beverages containing few or no calories
Clear soup
Note: Some doctors have reported that carbonated beverages may contribute to enlargement of the small pouch and should be avoided.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods have a concentrated supply of calories with little nutritional value and should be avoided as much as possible. They include:
Sugar and foods containing large quantities of sugar, such as:
High-calorie soft drinks
Syrups
Cakes
Biscuits
Sweets
Jam
Marmalade
Honey
High-fat foods including:
Chocolate
Pies
Chips pastries
**Alcoholic drinks should also be consumed in moderation
My Dr. really encourages NO CARBS so the bread & cereal isn't on my list. I thought most of the rules were not so important so I didn't follow them.. hence my slow weight loss!
Truth: I have been rigidly following the rules this week & I weighed 181.5 lbs this morning!!
Here are ten rules of Lap Band Surgery Diet for eating, drinking and exercise that will help you get the best results you can with the LAP-BAND System. How willing you are to follow a new way of eating is key to making the operation a success.
1. Eat only three small meals a day
2. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly (15-20 times a bite)
3. Stop eating as soon as you feel full
4. Do not drink while you are eating
5. Do not eat between meals
6. Eat only good quality food
7. Avoid fibrous food
8. Drink enough fluids during the day
9. Drink only low-calorie fluids
10. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
Eat only three small meals a day
The LAP BAND System creates a small stomach pouch that can hold only about half a cup of food. If you try to eat more than this at one time you may become nauseated or vomit. If you routinely eat too much, the small pouch may stretch. That will cancel the effect of the operation. Frequent vomiting can also cause certain complications, such as stomach slippage. You need to learn how much your stomach pouch can hold comfortably and then not exceed this amount.
Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
Food can pass through the new stoma only of it has been into very small pieces. Always remember to take more time for your meals and chew your food very well.
Stop eating as soon as you feel full
Once your stomach is full, your body receives a signal that you have eaten enough. It takes time, though, for you to become aware of this signal. If you rush through your meal, you may eat more than you need. This can lead to nausea and vomiting. Take time to eat your meal. Try to recognize the feeling the fullness - then stop eating at once.
Do not drink while you are eating
This operation can work only if you eat solid food. If you drink at mealtimes, the food you have eaten becomes liquid and the effectiveness of the LAP-BAND System is greatly reduced. You should not drink anything for one to two hours after a meal. This allows you to keep the feeling of fullness as long as possible.
Do not eat between meals
After a meal, do not eat anything else until the next meal. Eating snacks between meals is one of the major reasons for weight-loss failure. It is very important to break this habit. Patients with proper "fill" levels do not feel hungry in between meals. If you are, this may be a sign that your band is too loose and you should tell your clinician.
Eat only good quality food
With the LAP-BAND System in place, you should be able to able to eat only a small amount so the the food you eat should be as healthy as possible. Do not fill your small stomach pouch with junk food that lacks vitamins and other important nutrients. Your meals should be high in protein and vitamins. Fresh vegetables, fruit, meat and cereals are good foods to choose. Foods high in fat and sugar are not. You may eat apples and oranges, but try to avoid orange juice and and apple juice. Ask your doctor or dietician before you take any vitamin supplements.
Avoid fibrous food
Food such as asparagus that contains many fibers can block the stoma. That's because you can't chew this food well enough to break it up into small pieces and your saliva can't break it down. Fibrous food should be avoided. If you would like to eat asparagus or other fibrous foods once in a while, then you must be sure to cook them well, cut them into very small pieces and them chew them thoroughly.
Drink enough fluids during the day
If you lose weight, your fat content will drop. This results in waste products. You will need to drink large amounts of liquid every day in order to urinate more and excrete these waste products from your body. Individual needs will vary, but you should drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.
Drink only low-calorie liquids. Drinks, including those containing calories, simply run through the narrow outlet created by the band. If you drink liquids high in calories, you will lose little weight, even if you otherwise follow your diet.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
This rule is just as important as the other nine rules. Since physical exercise consumes energy and burns calories, it is very important to successful weight loss. Exercise can help improve your general health. Your size may make it hard for you to exercise as much as you should. But get started, even if it is a little at first. The more weight you lose, the easier it should get. Start with simple exercises such as walking and swimming. Gradually expand you program to include more vigorous forms of exercise such as cycling, jogging and aerobics.
Increase your activity level in the course of daily living. For example, stand rather than sit, walk rather than stand, be outside rather than inside, walk rather than drive, climb the stairs rather than use the elevator, etc. Remember you should always check with your doctor about the amount and type of exercise that is best for you.
Food Choices
Use this section to help you plan what you eat. you may choose what you would like from each of these food groups on a daily basis:
Fruits and vegetable
1 to 2 servings of fresh fruit daily
2 to 3 servings of fresh vegetable daily
Bread and Cereals
1 small portion of corn flakes for breakfast
1 to 2 slices of whole wheat or rye bread each day
Meat, Fish, Poultry, Eggs
1 oz. to 2 oz. of meat, fish or poultry or one egg each day (remove all visible fat from the meat. remove the ski from poultry. Grilling, steaming, microwaving or boiling are best ways to prepare them with low fat).
Dairy Products
Milk and yogurt are calories in liquid form. In theory, then, they should be avoided. But these types of food have calcium. That makes them an important part of a healthy daily diet. Choose a maximum of 2 cups of skimmed milk or low-fat yogurt and 1 oz. of cheese a day.
Fats
Restrict the use of fat to 3 to 4 teaspoons of margarine, butter or oil per day. You can have low-fat salad dressing and mayonnaise in moderation.
Drink as many calorie-free liquids per day as you wish. Suitable drinks are:
Tea or black coffee with low-calorie sweetener
Water
Non-carbonated beverages containing few or no calories
Clear soup
Note: Some doctors have reported that carbonated beverages may contribute to enlargement of the small pouch and should be avoided.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods have a concentrated supply of calories with little nutritional value and should be avoided as much as possible. They include:
Sugar and foods containing large quantities of sugar, such as:
High-calorie soft drinks
Syrups
Cakes
Biscuits
Sweets
Jam
Marmalade
Honey
High-fat foods including:
Chocolate
Pies
Chips pastries
**Alcoholic drinks should also be consumed in moderation
My Dr. really encourages NO CARBS so the bread & cereal isn't on my list. I thought most of the rules were not so important so I didn't follow them.. hence my slow weight loss!
Truth: I have been rigidly following the rules this week & I weighed 181.5 lbs this morning!!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Change is Good!
I have been unintentionally absent. I went to my Dr. Tuesday. I weighed in on his scale at 185.5 (184.5 on mine). He wasn't as hard on me as I am on myself. We did discuss the need to clear my kitchen of anything I shouldn't have and to really embrace NO CARBS, including my little "permissions" to myself. I have buckled down & this morning my scale said 182. The numbers don't lie. This really works. I keep reminding myself that one woman I met a few weeks ago follows my docs guidelines & decided not to have the lap band surgery. She has lost 152 lbs in 15 months! If I had that will power I would not have failed at almost a lifetime of weight loss attempts.
This evening my daughter came over & we went through the pantry, fridge & freezer. We purged alot of things we weren't using & I shouldn't have. We also removed some things I shouldn't have & might be tempted to eat if they stuck around. She traded me some meats & alot of vegetables so it wasn't a huge write off for our grocery budget. In these times of financial hardship for so many it can be cost prohibitive to cleanse your kitchen of less healthy, but often more affordable food options. I have been tying to shop more often & buy less. To reduce portion sizes & stick to only what I need for the one or two meals I am shopping for. I was slowly phasing out the "bad" stuff & only buying the "good". I had alot of back stock & just needed to clear it out. It feels good to have it done. We still have plenty of groceries. I kept some of my hubby's preferences & kids favorites, but healthier foods are good for all of us!
Tonight's dinner was a good example: Had some leftover Italian sausages, onions, peppers, & mushrooms. For the kids I added some sausage to spaghetti sauce, added some ricotta & mozzarella cheeses & cooked corkscrew pasta. Done.. they loved it & even had seconds. I combined the rest of the sausage, the onions, peppers, mushrooms & a spoonful of sauce. I placed half the mixture in a casserole dish. I spread a layer of ricotta cheese & some grated mozzarella over that then topped it with the rest of the sausage mixture & some more grated cheese. Popped it into a 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. That was my dinner & it was delicious! My daughter said she preferred mine to the pasta. I did not feel deprived, had no desire for the pasta & enjoyed my meal. I also have enough for another meal tomorrow.
I grew up with meat, potatoes, & lots of pasta. Whatever could be stretched to feed 7children & 2 adults on limited income. It is hard to change gears at 47years of age! But I am committed to do this and have learned the hard way that it is a lifestyle CHANGE.
Truth: This is one of those instances when CHANGE IS GOOD!!
This evening my daughter came over & we went through the pantry, fridge & freezer. We purged alot of things we weren't using & I shouldn't have. We also removed some things I shouldn't have & might be tempted to eat if they stuck around. She traded me some meats & alot of vegetables so it wasn't a huge write off for our grocery budget. In these times of financial hardship for so many it can be cost prohibitive to cleanse your kitchen of less healthy, but often more affordable food options. I have been tying to shop more often & buy less. To reduce portion sizes & stick to only what I need for the one or two meals I am shopping for. I was slowly phasing out the "bad" stuff & only buying the "good". I had alot of back stock & just needed to clear it out. It feels good to have it done. We still have plenty of groceries. I kept some of my hubby's preferences & kids favorites, but healthier foods are good for all of us!
Tonight's dinner was a good example: Had some leftover Italian sausages, onions, peppers, & mushrooms. For the kids I added some sausage to spaghetti sauce, added some ricotta & mozzarella cheeses & cooked corkscrew pasta. Done.. they loved it & even had seconds. I combined the rest of the sausage, the onions, peppers, mushrooms & a spoonful of sauce. I placed half the mixture in a casserole dish. I spread a layer of ricotta cheese & some grated mozzarella over that then topped it with the rest of the sausage mixture & some more grated cheese. Popped it into a 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. That was my dinner & it was delicious! My daughter said she preferred mine to the pasta. I did not feel deprived, had no desire for the pasta & enjoyed my meal. I also have enough for another meal tomorrow.
I grew up with meat, potatoes, & lots of pasta. Whatever could be stretched to feed 7children & 2 adults on limited income. It is hard to change gears at 47years of age! But I am committed to do this and have learned the hard way that it is a lifestyle CHANGE.
Truth: This is one of those instances when CHANGE IS GOOD!!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Happy 4th of July
Not so much for me. I knew the weekend would be rough. I thought I had a pretty good handle on it..until I stepped on the scale! 186 lbs. My friend says a quick gain is usually water weight. I also was told not to weigh myself so often. I tend to check my weight every other day. It is hard not to get frustated. I keep going back over everythng I have eaten & had to drink. I have not been as diligent as I should, but have not gone that far off the grid. I guess this is my proof that "a little" is too much! I see my Dr. tomorrow. I was so proud of myself for losing 4 lbs over the past few weeks, not so much the 1 lb I have to show for it now.
I am drinkng more water, eating right. I had an Italian sausage with some onion, green pepper & mushrooms for lunch, NO BREAD. I am trying not to get too discouraged. The lap band isn't a magic wand & it doesn't work overnight. My Doc's scale will tell if the extra weight is water gain or just plain gain. My old brain says eat a bag of cookies with milk & to hell with it. It is hard to argue with that! But instead I will have some water with fruit punch MIO & maybe even a sugar free popsicle!
Truth: Hmmm, for today, the truth is.. I am really bothered by my weight gain!
I am drinkng more water, eating right. I had an Italian sausage with some onion, green pepper & mushrooms for lunch, NO BREAD. I am trying not to get too discouraged. The lap band isn't a magic wand & it doesn't work overnight. My Doc's scale will tell if the extra weight is water gain or just plain gain. My old brain says eat a bag of cookies with milk & to hell with it. It is hard to argue with that! But instead I will have some water with fruit punch MIO & maybe even a sugar free popsicle!
Truth: Hmmm, for today, the truth is.. I am really bothered by my weight gain!
Friday, July 1, 2011
So you've had a bad day..
I have been riding on an even keel the past few weeks. I have been diligent about using the fatsecret app on my phone to track everything I eat or drink. I felt myself slipping the past day or two. This is an ongoing battle. Against my weight & against my emotional triggers that helped get me here in the first place.
I had a couple pieces of Sushi last night. The rice is a big no-no. Today has been a constant struggle not to devour everything in sight! Today is an emotional day for me personally so I knew it would be hard. I had hoped being on track the past few weeks would help. I think it has.. I had a turkey burger (no bun) & mashed cauliflower at Ruby Tuesdays today at lunch when what I really wanted was pasta. I ate half a bag of pork skins (no carbs!) instead of ordering pizza. I am drinking my iced coffee right now instead of devouring the kid's mini snack cakes. But I am miserable! Not because I didn't have pizza.. and I know the pizza would not make me feel better for long,it would actually make me feel worse. I am emotionally miserable for personal reasons that have nothing to do with food.
Food has always been my pacifier, my soother. I have to deal with my emotions rather than smothering them in chocolate! I have seen a therapist for several years now. That has helped alot. But ultimately it is my responsibility to make the right choices. I can blame my childhood, my ex, my losses, my tragedies, my health, but at the end of the line there is just me. The next step I take is my own. I will get through today. I fear failure, I fear losing the gains I have made.. gaining the pounds I have lost! I fear my MS will make my mood swings & emotional waves harder to deal with. But more than those.. I fear not being here for my family, not being able to do things with my children & grandchildren. So I will win this battle one step, one day at a time!!
Truth: I did indulge in chocolate today.. Godiva Pearls.. Only 3 grams of carbs in 8 little pieces. They come in a little metal container that I keep in the fridge. I try to only have a couple at a time.. make the 8 last the whole day.. there are several days worth in there!!
I had a couple pieces of Sushi last night. The rice is a big no-no. Today has been a constant struggle not to devour everything in sight! Today is an emotional day for me personally so I knew it would be hard. I had hoped being on track the past few weeks would help. I think it has.. I had a turkey burger (no bun) & mashed cauliflower at Ruby Tuesdays today at lunch when what I really wanted was pasta. I ate half a bag of pork skins (no carbs!) instead of ordering pizza. I am drinking my iced coffee right now instead of devouring the kid's mini snack cakes. But I am miserable! Not because I didn't have pizza.. and I know the pizza would not make me feel better for long,it would actually make me feel worse. I am emotionally miserable for personal reasons that have nothing to do with food.
Food has always been my pacifier, my soother. I have to deal with my emotions rather than smothering them in chocolate! I have seen a therapist for several years now. That has helped alot. But ultimately it is my responsibility to make the right choices. I can blame my childhood, my ex, my losses, my tragedies, my health, but at the end of the line there is just me. The next step I take is my own. I will get through today. I fear failure, I fear losing the gains I have made.. gaining the pounds I have lost! I fear my MS will make my mood swings & emotional waves harder to deal with. But more than those.. I fear not being here for my family, not being able to do things with my children & grandchildren. So I will win this battle one step, one day at a time!!
Truth: I did indulge in chocolate today.. Godiva Pearls.. Only 3 grams of carbs in 8 little pieces. They come in a little metal container that I keep in the fridge. I try to only have a couple at a time.. make the 8 last the whole day.. there are several days worth in there!!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Stress is not my friend!
Yesterday was a very stress filled day. It started early with a sick dog & not feeling so great myself. I left the house without my usual iced or hot coffee. Now that I know my favorite tall skinny cinnamon dolce latte is 14 grams of carbs, I avoid Starbucks! I opted to hit the grocery store instead of a drive thru. My 10 year old son was with me so I considered his likes as well. We chose some thin sliced ham & swiss cheese from the deli, some fruit punch MIO water enhancer & 2bottles of water. We rolled the ham & cheese together & made our own "on the go" meal.
Later in the day as the stress mounted I gave in & stopped for ice cream. I opted for the kiddie size cone & accepted the 8 carbs that went with it. It hit the spot & satisfied my emotional urge. A couple weeks ago I would not have considered the smaller option, I would have gotten the largest candy filled choice they had. I have always been an emotional eater. Whether upset, angry, or just bored. I am working on that. I am a constant work in progress. Undoing 47 years of damage doesn't happen overnight.
I had baked Trout for dinner with a small amount of a light lemon butter sauce. I also had a small salad. Overall for the day, I drank 2 bottles of water & a couple glasses of iced coffee. I kept my carb count below my goal of 39 grams so despite the stress involved I didn't make it worse!
Truth: I still have "dieter's guilt". That is so ingrained within me. I find it hard to break. I had ice cream = bad me = I failed myself. I counter that with size choice + not going over carb goal = good me, I made better choices!
Weight yesterday a.m. was 183lbs!
Later in the day as the stress mounted I gave in & stopped for ice cream. I opted for the kiddie size cone & accepted the 8 carbs that went with it. It hit the spot & satisfied my emotional urge. A couple weeks ago I would not have considered the smaller option, I would have gotten the largest candy filled choice they had. I have always been an emotional eater. Whether upset, angry, or just bored. I am working on that. I am a constant work in progress. Undoing 47 years of damage doesn't happen overnight.
I had baked Trout for dinner with a small amount of a light lemon butter sauce. I also had a small salad. Overall for the day, I drank 2 bottles of water & a couple glasses of iced coffee. I kept my carb count below my goal of 39 grams so despite the stress involved I didn't make it worse!
Truth: I still have "dieter's guilt". That is so ingrained within me. I find it hard to break. I had ice cream = bad me = I failed myself. I counter that with size choice + not going over carb goal = good me, I made better choices!
Weight yesterday a.m. was 183lbs!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
CHICKEN CHEESE CASSEROLE
3-4 cups cooked chicken, chopped (I like a lot of chicken so I use 4 cups)
2 cups chopped baby asparagus, chopped (1 bunch, cut stalk down about 1/2 way)
2 cups baby Portabello Mushrooms, chopped (8oz pkg, I didn’t use stems)
2 tbls butter & 1 tbls olive oil
__________________________________________________________________
¼ cup butter
¼ cup flour
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
¼ cup onion, minced
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon dried Oregano
A pinch of black pepper
1 cup (8oz) Mozzarella cheese, grated
½ cup parmesan cheese (1/4 cup for sauce, ¼ cup for top)
___________________________________________________________________
1 cup ricotta cheese (I sometimes mix in a little mozzarella &/or parmesan with it for extra flavor)
In large sauté pan heat butter & olive oil, add chopped asparagus & mushrooms. Saute on Medium High heat for about 4 minutes., set aside with cooked chicken.
In large saucepan melt ¼ cup butter (1/2 stick). Add ¼ flour, garlic & salt. Whisk until smooth. Let cook for a minute or two until bubbly. Add chicken broth & milk to pan, stirring constantly for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Then add onion, basil, oregano, pepper, ¼ cup of the parmesan cheese, & the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts. Add chicken & vegetables to sauce. Stir well until everything is combined.
In a casserole dish (4 quart or 13 x 9 x 2) pour half of the mixture. Top with dollops of the ricotta cheese, try to distribute evenly but does not have to be perfect. Top with the rest of the chicken mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of parmesan cheese on top.
Cook in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 30-40 minutes until hot & bubbly. Let cool about 15 minutes before serving.
You can use any vegetables you want in this. Modify it to fit your preferences. I wanted to make a healthier version of a recipe I cook often for my famly & friends, Chicken Cheese Lasagna. I hope you enjoy it!
2 cups chopped baby asparagus, chopped (1 bunch, cut stalk down about 1/2 way)
2 cups baby Portabello Mushrooms, chopped (8oz pkg, I didn’t use stems)
2 tbls butter & 1 tbls olive oil
__________________________________________________________________
¼ cup butter
¼ cup flour
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
¼ cup onion, minced
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon dried Oregano
A pinch of black pepper
1 cup (8oz) Mozzarella cheese, grated
½ cup parmesan cheese (1/4 cup for sauce, ¼ cup for top)
___________________________________________________________________
1 cup ricotta cheese (I sometimes mix in a little mozzarella &/or parmesan with it for extra flavor)
In large sauté pan heat butter & olive oil, add chopped asparagus & mushrooms. Saute on Medium High heat for about 4 minutes., set aside with cooked chicken.
In large saucepan melt ¼ cup butter (1/2 stick). Add ¼ flour, garlic & salt. Whisk until smooth. Let cook for a minute or two until bubbly. Add chicken broth & milk to pan, stirring constantly for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Then add onion, basil, oregano, pepper, ¼ cup of the parmesan cheese, & the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts. Add chicken & vegetables to sauce. Stir well until everything is combined.
In a casserole dish (4 quart or 13 x 9 x 2) pour half of the mixture. Top with dollops of the ricotta cheese, try to distribute evenly but does not have to be perfect. Top with the rest of the chicken mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of parmesan cheese on top.
Cook in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 30-40 minutes until hot & bubbly. Let cool about 15 minutes before serving.
You can use any vegetables you want in this. Modify it to fit your preferences. I wanted to make a healthier version of a recipe I cook often for my famly & friends, Chicken Cheese Lasagna. I hope you enjoy it!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Saturday Night Fever!
I had such a busy weekend! I would like to say I stayed on track, and I actually did on my food choices, but I failed miserably on my Carb Count! I went out with friends Saturday night & thought a drink or two wouldn't hurt. My drink of choice is Amaretto & 7-up.. they only had sprite so I had an Amaretto Sour.. 30 CARBS IN ONE DRINK!! I had two.. my bad! I had another party Sunday but I brought my iced coffee & drank no alcohol at all. I don't drink often so I have plenty of time to find a low carb alternative!
I cooked for the party on Sunday. I made a caesar type salad but used a non caesar dressing. I made a simple sausage dip:
Cook 1 package of bulk country pork sausage. Drain fat off.
add 2 pkgs cream cheese, cubed.
add 1 can Rotel Tomatoes with green chiles, I use mild.
Let heat through.
Carbivores can eat it with corn chips. I am trying to think of ways to make it more low carb but still yummy. Maybe do without the tomatoes & use veggie sticks to dip with.
I also made Chicken Cheese Lasagna for everyone else. I took some of the ingredients to create a low carb alternative. I am going to make it as a full recipe tonight & will post it when I have the amounts tweaked. The sample I made for myself was very good!
Truth: I weighed 183.5 this morning. Probably would have done better without the alcohol!
I cooked for the party on Sunday. I made a caesar type salad but used a non caesar dressing. I made a simple sausage dip:
Cook 1 package of bulk country pork sausage. Drain fat off.
add 2 pkgs cream cheese, cubed.
add 1 can Rotel Tomatoes with green chiles, I use mild.
Let heat through.
Carbivores can eat it with corn chips. I am trying to think of ways to make it more low carb but still yummy. Maybe do without the tomatoes & use veggie sticks to dip with.
I also made Chicken Cheese Lasagna for everyone else. I took some of the ingredients to create a low carb alternative. I am going to make it as a full recipe tonight & will post it when I have the amounts tweaked. The sample I made for myself was very good!
Truth: I weighed 183.5 this morning. Probably would have done better without the alcohol!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Beef with Snow Peas via The Pioneer Woman
I made this tonight. It was quick, simple, & very delicious! She breaks down each step, but it is quite easy to make this yourself.
Modifications I made to suit my needs;
I used Splenda Brown Sugar Blend in place of regular brown sugar. It has half the carbs & you use half as much.
I did not use the pepper flakes, that is just my personal preference.
I made the rice for my hsband, but I did not have any. It was delicious & filling for me without it.
I will post more recipes as I go & will almost always modify them to suit me. Enjoy!
(You'll have to copy & paste into your web browser, won't show up as a direct link!)
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/10/beef-with-snow-peas/
Modifications I made to suit my needs;
I used Splenda Brown Sugar Blend in place of regular brown sugar. It has half the carbs & you use half as much.
I did not use the pepper flakes, that is just my personal preference.
I made the rice for my hsband, but I did not have any. It was delicious & filling for me without it.
I will post more recipes as I go & will almost always modify them to suit me. Enjoy!
(You'll have to copy & paste into your web browser, won't show up as a direct link!)
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/10/beef-with-snow-peas/
Modify your mind!
The past couple days got away from me! Went to Orlando for some summer fun then had a friend come in from out of town. I managed to stay on track throughout. I have started using a new smartphone App.. Calorie Counter by Fatsecret.. it is FREE! It counts calories, carbs, etc. It has a food log, an exercise log, a weight tracker & a large database of foods. It even has the option to scan barcodes. I now have no excuse for not knowing the carbs BEFORE I eat something & it helps me keep track of it all.
I ate alot of salad in Orlando. That is my fallback when my options are limited. I drank alot of water.. with my MIO liquid water enhancer, of course! I got alot of sun & alot of exercise. It was alot of fun!
I made Philly Cheesesteaks for my family last night & ate mine without the bread. It was soooo good! Steak-ums with mushrooms, onions, peppers.. provolone cheese.. I did add a teaspoon of steaksauce for some added flavor & moisture. I find dry meats don't do well with me. Very few carbs, very filling & very good! I did not miss the bread at all.
I can modify anything to a better choice for myself. The hardest part is modifying my mind!! I found this recipe for iced coffee..
(You'll have to copy & paste into your web browser, won't show up as a direct link!)
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/06/perfect-iced-coffee/
I DO NOT use the sweetened condensed milk, or refined sugar, or half & half.. I use sugar free flavored syrup, Splenda if I want it sweeter, & regular milk. My way 12 ounces with ice is 1.68 carbs!! What a great alternative!! This recipe makes almost 8quarts.. alot.. but I am sure I will use it all.. I may even take a pitcher of it to a party this weekend. The Starbucks near me may go out of business without me buying it from them!! The difference in flavor from putting "old" coffee over ice is huge. I will add things as I find what works for me. I hope it helps others in some way. I have a new recipe to try tonight. I will post it later if it is as good as it looks!
This process was quite overwhelming for me for several months. I had tools to use & didn't use them. I had all the guidelines right in front of me & didn't follow them. There is no good reason why. Old hang ups, fear of failure, clinging to my carb addicted habits.. all of the above. I find it easier every day to reform my ideas & lifestyle. I know I will still make choices from time to time that are not the best for me.. but I also know I have come this far & with each step forward, one step at a time..I am becoming a better ME!
Truth: This morning I weighed 184 lbs!
I ate alot of salad in Orlando. That is my fallback when my options are limited. I drank alot of water.. with my MIO liquid water enhancer, of course! I got alot of sun & alot of exercise. It was alot of fun!
I made Philly Cheesesteaks for my family last night & ate mine without the bread. It was soooo good! Steak-ums with mushrooms, onions, peppers.. provolone cheese.. I did add a teaspoon of steaksauce for some added flavor & moisture. I find dry meats don't do well with me. Very few carbs, very filling & very good! I did not miss the bread at all.
I can modify anything to a better choice for myself. The hardest part is modifying my mind!! I found this recipe for iced coffee..
(You'll have to copy & paste into your web browser, won't show up as a direct link!)
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/06/perfect-iced-coffee/
I DO NOT use the sweetened condensed milk, or refined sugar, or half & half.. I use sugar free flavored syrup, Splenda if I want it sweeter, & regular milk. My way 12 ounces with ice is 1.68 carbs!! What a great alternative!! This recipe makes almost 8quarts.. alot.. but I am sure I will use it all.. I may even take a pitcher of it to a party this weekend. The Starbucks near me may go out of business without me buying it from them!! The difference in flavor from putting "old" coffee over ice is huge. I will add things as I find what works for me. I hope it helps others in some way. I have a new recipe to try tonight. I will post it later if it is as good as it looks!
This process was quite overwhelming for me for several months. I had tools to use & didn't use them. I had all the guidelines right in front of me & didn't follow them. There is no good reason why. Old hang ups, fear of failure, clinging to my carb addicted habits.. all of the above. I find it easier every day to reform my ideas & lifestyle. I know I will still make choices from time to time that are not the best for me.. but I also know I have come this far & with each step forward, one step at a time..I am becoming a better ME!
Truth: This morning I weighed 184 lbs!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Sweating at Seaworld!
I just opened my 3rd bottle of water for today! (Although it is almost midnight so this will post as "tomorrow".)I spent the day sweating like crazy at Seaworld. I brought my MIO with me so I drank water instead of lemonade or soda. Lunch was a Caesar wannabe salad but it didn't go down well at all. I think it needed more dressing, it was kind of dry. I usually do okay with salads. Dinner was at Carrabas since we had a gift card. I did have a small bite of bread with oil, just one! I ate their house side salad & a cup of their Sicilian Chicken Soup. normally that has pasta in it, but the waitress said they add that before serving so I could get it without the pasta! It was very good. All in all a good day of choices.
Truth: I started the day at Seaworld eating a corner bite of a chocolate dipped rice crispy treat!! That was definitely an emotional act. My oldest son, who is in Afghanistan, always got them. When my younger son got one, I HAD to taste it.. it brought back good memories & made me miss my son even more! It is a slippery slope!
Truth: I started the day at Seaworld eating a corner bite of a chocolate dipped rice crispy treat!! That was definitely an emotional act. My oldest son, who is in Afghanistan, always got them. When my younger son got one, I HAD to taste it.. it brought back good memories & made me miss my son even more! It is a slippery slope!
Monday, June 20, 2011
Eating Out..
Today I ate out twice.. once at the mall food court, then later at Applebee's for dinner. Lunch was a huge disappointment. I had a "Lo Carb Combo" at one of the oriental places. It had chicken & vegetables. The chicken was full of fat & gristle. The vegetables were bland & undercooked. I won't eat there again! I would have been better off with a Salad at Subway, which will be my choice next time.
For dinner I took the kiddos to Applebee's. I had an extra kid in tow & we were right there anyway to meet my daughter to pick up my grandson. I had their Spinach & Shrimp Salad. You can get a half portion which is still a good amount. Only 4.5 Carbs in the half portion & that is all in the hot bacon dressing. I have them go light with it or put it on the side & I mix what I want.
Other than a big chunk of burnt "char" from the grill, the salad was great. (They took it off my bill & gave me a fresh salad to go.)It has fresh baby spinach, grilled shrimp, roasted red peppers, almonds, & red onion (I omit the onion).
Found some tea I like at Teavana which I posted earlier. I drank my 1 bottle of water so far today & may get another bottle in before my day is done thanks to the MIO water enhancer. A good day!
Truth: About 1:00am this morning I ate a Chips Deluxe Peanut Butter Cup Cookie.. 9.5 Carbs, for one! They have been there all week so I am OK that I ate just the one.
For dinner I took the kiddos to Applebee's. I had an extra kid in tow & we were right there anyway to meet my daughter to pick up my grandson. I had their Spinach & Shrimp Salad. You can get a half portion which is still a good amount. Only 4.5 Carbs in the half portion & that is all in the hot bacon dressing. I have them go light with it or put it on the side & I mix what I want.
Other than a big chunk of burnt "char" from the grill, the salad was great. (They took it off my bill & gave me a fresh salad to go.)It has fresh baby spinach, grilled shrimp, roasted red peppers, almonds, & red onion (I omit the onion).
Found some tea I like at Teavana which I posted earlier. I drank my 1 bottle of water so far today & may get another bottle in before my day is done thanks to the MIO water enhancer. A good day!
Truth: About 1:00am this morning I ate a Chips Deluxe Peanut Butter Cup Cookie.. 9.5 Carbs, for one! They have been there all week so I am OK that I ate just the one.
Samurai Chai Mate' (@ Teavana)
A sip of this sweetly robust straight up Mate blend awakens the Samurai within. Inspired by the Way of the Warrior, this fresh green Mate is imbued with strong spices, invigorating herbs and revitalizing citrus. A wonderful cup of tea that will get you moving!
This all natural tea gives energy & curbs your appetite. I tried a few different ones today & really liked this one. I also got some Blueberry Bliss, which aids in digestion & relaxaton. Can't hurt & gives me some alternatives to my coffee addiction!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Tools for success
These are 2 of the items that have really saved me this week! The MIO Liquid Water Enhancer comes in several flavors. Yesteday & today it helped me to drink 2 bottles of water. That is a first!!
The Lemonaise also has a few different varieties to choose from. It is good for cold or hot foods.. adds alot of flavor! Both have 0 Carbs!! Hope this helps you know what to look for.
I took the kiddos to Cracker barrel this morning & resisted the urge to get grits with cheese & bacon. I had bacon with 2 scrambled eggs & cheese. I would have been good with 1 egg! I didn't miss the grits as much as I thought I would. Took the kiddos to the movies & nibbled on some cashews instead of popcorn. I will have to remember to put some MIO in my pocket next time. I don't drink soda or plain water. They had coffee there, but it was awful!
Picked up chicken salad when I grabbed lunch for us all on the way home. Just asked for it with no bread/no wrap. I am getting better about asking for things the way I want them. Had Brussels Sprouts for dinner. I could have had some leftover pork stir fry I made last night, but wasn't in the mood for it.
Truth: I am really wanting/craving chocolate! I did have 2 small bites of a cake pop today.. it was really good! But I stopped myself from eating the whole thing. I will have to look up the carbs for it.. ugh!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Artichoke Chicken
1 1/2 cups fresh artichokes or 1 15oz can of artichoke hearts, drained & chopped
1 cup Parmesan cheese (or cheese of choice, grated)
3/4 cup light Mayonnaise (I like The Krafts Olive oil & cracked pepper)
1 pinch of garlic salt
1 pinch of pepper
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or cut in half to make smaller portions)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place chicken in a greased baking dish. Mix all the other ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Cover the chicken with the mixture. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until the chicken breast is at 165 degrees at it's center. (If you cut the chicken breasts in half, cook for about 30 minutes.)
1 cup Parmesan cheese (or cheese of choice, grated)
3/4 cup light Mayonnaise (I like The Krafts Olive oil & cracked pepper)
1 pinch of garlic salt
1 pinch of pepper
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or cut in half to make smaller portions)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place chicken in a greased baking dish. Mix all the other ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Cover the chicken with the mixture. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until the chicken breast is at 165 degrees at it's center. (If you cut the chicken breasts in half, cook for about 30 minutes.)
0 Carbs & Crunchy!
I kept thinking I was forgetting about something from the support group the other night. I finally remembered! I loooove potato chips. The salt, the crunch..next to a thick steak, that is something I really miss eating. I have a replacement that isn't quite the same, but darn close..Pork Rinds! The plain ones have 0 carbs, the flavored ones have 1-3 carbs per serving. I have never had them before. They satisfy my crunchy habit & swell up once you swallow them so a little goes a long way. I had a couple & was pleasantly surprised.
I looove onion dip too & learned it is better to make it yourself with sour cream & lipton onion soup mix. The premade dips add extra sugars which ramps up the carb count.
I looove onion dip too & learned it is better to make it yourself with sour cream & lipton onion soup mix. The premade dips add extra sugars which ramps up the carb count.
Dinner Date!
Last night my sweet husband took me out for a date night. Eating out can be a struggle, but there are always smart choices & most places will tweak the entree to meet your needs. (If not,don't go there!)
We shared Escargot I ate 3. There were no croutons or bread with it.(A past weakness of mine.) I could have had more but wanted to save room for the rest of my dinner. I had a couple spoonfuls of Artichoke Soup, it was OK, but not good enough to have more. Bonus for me, but maybe a drawback for my husband.. we can share & I don't feel guilty about not finishing something. Usually he is like Mikey, he eats anything! After a few considerations I had Baked Grouper dusted with Hazelnuts. I had them go light on the nuts & omit the cornbread they usually top it with as well. I subbed veggies for the rice & it was awesome! They split my fish into 2 portions so I ate one & took the other home with some veggies. I just ate it for lunch & it was almost as good as it was last night. All I have had today was coffee so I really enjoyed it. We both were satisfied from our meal so we declined dessert. I didn't feel deprived or that I had to eat rabbit food for dinner. It was delicious. The one (actually 2..it was happy hour!) carb laden thing I had was Parrot Bay Rum & Cranberry. They were about 16 carbs each = 36 Carbs!! That is almost my total for the day so I am being extremely stingy with my carbs today. I didn't know the carb count before hand.. I REALLY need to put that app on my phone. My hubby doesn't drink & after drinking the first one I wasn't about to turn away the second one that was free!
We stopped at the store on the way home & I picked up foods I want to keep on hand so I have other alternatives when I want something I shouldn't have. I picked up some cheese sticks & slices. The individual ones are just the right amount, but I sometimes get the blocks & just cut them myself.. whatever is on sale. I also picked up some edamame from the frozen section. A short pop in the microwave & a sprinkle of salt & they are ready. An item I found with zero carbs that I like is "Bridgford Party Bites Sausage". The turkey version has carbs & triple the sodium! Read those labels.. looks can be deceiving! These are milder than pepperoni & a good mini source of protein.
I finally found something that makes water easier for me to drink! "MIO Liquid Water Enhancer". I tried the Sweet Tea flavor so far. You use as little or as much as you like. It has 0 carbs, 0 sodium. It just makes water palatable for me. I got a few flavors to try so we shall see. I have had 1 bottle of water each day since Tuesday, maybe this will help me drink more!
Truth: I do not drink alcohol often, but I will on occasion.. & that's OK!
We shared Escargot I ate 3. There were no croutons or bread with it.(A past weakness of mine.) I could have had more but wanted to save room for the rest of my dinner. I had a couple spoonfuls of Artichoke Soup, it was OK, but not good enough to have more. Bonus for me, but maybe a drawback for my husband.. we can share & I don't feel guilty about not finishing something. Usually he is like Mikey, he eats anything! After a few considerations I had Baked Grouper dusted with Hazelnuts. I had them go light on the nuts & omit the cornbread they usually top it with as well. I subbed veggies for the rice & it was awesome! They split my fish into 2 portions so I ate one & took the other home with some veggies. I just ate it for lunch & it was almost as good as it was last night. All I have had today was coffee so I really enjoyed it. We both were satisfied from our meal so we declined dessert. I didn't feel deprived or that I had to eat rabbit food for dinner. It was delicious. The one (actually 2..it was happy hour!) carb laden thing I had was Parrot Bay Rum & Cranberry. They were about 16 carbs each = 36 Carbs!! That is almost my total for the day so I am being extremely stingy with my carbs today. I didn't know the carb count before hand.. I REALLY need to put that app on my phone. My hubby doesn't drink & after drinking the first one I wasn't about to turn away the second one that was free!
We stopped at the store on the way home & I picked up foods I want to keep on hand so I have other alternatives when I want something I shouldn't have. I picked up some cheese sticks & slices. The individual ones are just the right amount, but I sometimes get the blocks & just cut them myself.. whatever is on sale. I also picked up some edamame from the frozen section. A short pop in the microwave & a sprinkle of salt & they are ready. An item I found with zero carbs that I like is "Bridgford Party Bites Sausage". The turkey version has carbs & triple the sodium! Read those labels.. looks can be deceiving! These are milder than pepperoni & a good mini source of protein.
I finally found something that makes water easier for me to drink! "MIO Liquid Water Enhancer". I tried the Sweet Tea flavor so far. You use as little or as much as you like. It has 0 carbs, 0 sodium. It just makes water palatable for me. I got a few flavors to try so we shall see. I have had 1 bottle of water each day since Tuesday, maybe this will help me drink more!
Truth: I do not drink alcohol often, but I will on occasion.. & that's OK!
Friday, June 17, 2011
The Ugly Truth
Truth: I ate 2 bites of a pumpkin spice pancake!
Carbohydrates = Poison for me!! I know this, yet I put that fork to my mouth, twice! I did dump the rest into the garbage disposal to prevent my scarfing it down. It wasn't because I was hungry. I made a huge pancake for my son with some batter that had to be used up. He didn't finish it all. I was putting the plate by the sink. It was there & so was I.
I am not into deprivation. I can have anything I want. I just have to know I will never lose the weight I want to & I will most likely gain back what I have lost. I am not willing to do that. I know my faults. I cannot eat "just a little" of something I like that is bad for me. I will go back again & again until it is gone. I have to have an alternative or not be around those foods.
This isn't just about weight, it is about my health. I have MS.. I want to postpone being in a wheel chair as long as possible. I want to play outside & do activities with my children & grandchildren that I may not be able to do as the disease progresses. I want to fight for myself with every fiber of my being. That starts with my biggest personal issue.. my weight & my self esteem.
So here I am! I made a large skillet full of eggs with bacon bits & cheese. I put it in 4oz containers & put them on the top shelf (my shelf) in the fridge. The rest of my famiy know not to eat anything on that shelf. Now I can grab one of those & pop it in the microwave for 30 seconds & have something to eat that is a smart option!
Carbohydrates = Poison for me!! I know this, yet I put that fork to my mouth, twice! I did dump the rest into the garbage disposal to prevent my scarfing it down. It wasn't because I was hungry. I made a huge pancake for my son with some batter that had to be used up. He didn't finish it all. I was putting the plate by the sink. It was there & so was I.
I am not into deprivation. I can have anything I want. I just have to know I will never lose the weight I want to & I will most likely gain back what I have lost. I am not willing to do that. I know my faults. I cannot eat "just a little" of something I like that is bad for me. I will go back again & again until it is gone. I have to have an alternative or not be around those foods.
This isn't just about weight, it is about my health. I have MS.. I want to postpone being in a wheel chair as long as possible. I want to play outside & do activities with my children & grandchildren that I may not be able to do as the disease progresses. I want to fight for myself with every fiber of my being. That starts with my biggest personal issue.. my weight & my self esteem.
So here I am! I made a large skillet full of eggs with bacon bits & cheese. I put it in 4oz containers & put them on the top shelf (my shelf) in the fridge. The rest of my famiy know not to eat anything on that shelf. Now I can grab one of those & pop it in the microwave for 30 seconds & have something to eat that is a smart option!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Riders in the storm..
That's what all people struggling with their life are! Rider's in the storm..
I met several ladies this evening who are at different stages of the Lap Band process. I didn't get many recipes, but I shared two & got some good input & feedback. I met a woman who I agreed with about being each other's "sponsor". She will try to cut out soda & icees. I will try to drink at least 1 bottle of water a day & avoid Potato chips & Helluva Good Onion Dip. (They are my cryptonite!) The key is to not be alone without a lifeline. Whether it is a trivial thing or a major decision, it helps to have someone to talk to or share it with. So no matter how hard it rains, you look out & see another rider in the same storm.
I grabbed a popsicle before I ran out to my meeting. Didn't eat or drink anything until afterward when I got a 20 oz. water & a couple drink mixes for it. I mixed lemonade & raspberry together & have enough for another bottle tomorrow. I still don't like water, but will stick to my deal with myself to drink at least 1 bottle a day.
I decided to have Brussels Sprouts for dinner. Steamed, seasoned, butter, parmesan cheese, & Mozzarella cheese. Really good! Had a small amount, then went back & had a little more. Since it was such a late dinner I figured veggies would be better than something heavier. I love most vegetables. I need to get out of the full dinner plate mentality. I do not have to have meat, potatoes, & another side at every meal. I can have & be satisfied with so many options. I just have to plan out my days better to avoid bad food choices. Sounds good, just have to put it into pactice more often.
I met several ladies this evening who are at different stages of the Lap Band process. I didn't get many recipes, but I shared two & got some good input & feedback. I met a woman who I agreed with about being each other's "sponsor". She will try to cut out soda & icees. I will try to drink at least 1 bottle of water a day & avoid Potato chips & Helluva Good Onion Dip. (They are my cryptonite!) The key is to not be alone without a lifeline. Whether it is a trivial thing or a major decision, it helps to have someone to talk to or share it with. So no matter how hard it rains, you look out & see another rider in the same storm.
I grabbed a popsicle before I ran out to my meeting. Didn't eat or drink anything until afterward when I got a 20 oz. water & a couple drink mixes for it. I mixed lemonade & raspberry together & have enough for another bottle tomorrow. I still don't like water, but will stick to my deal with myself to drink at least 1 bottle a day.
I decided to have Brussels Sprouts for dinner. Steamed, seasoned, butter, parmesan cheese, & Mozzarella cheese. Really good! Had a small amount, then went back & had a little more. Since it was such a late dinner I figured veggies would be better than something heavier. I love most vegetables. I need to get out of the full dinner plate mentality. I do not have to have meat, potatoes, & another side at every meal. I can have & be satisfied with so many options. I just have to plan out my days better to avoid bad food choices. Sounds good, just have to put it into pactice more often.
Know your stuff!
For supper last night I finished the fish I cooked the night before. I don't like things, especially fish, to sit in the fridge more than a day. I had some cashews for snack later on & at about 2am I had a sugar free Popsicle to ward off my craving for potato chips! Another "bridge" to get me over the hump when I am bored or emotional & turn to aimlessly eating.
This morning I made a "coffee to go" from home. Alot less carbs & cheaper too! We ran late this morning so I grabbed my son breakfast at Burger King. I ate 1/2 of a cheesy bacon wrap, which my carb counting link says is 15.5 carbs! Another "rule" is never eat anything without knowing how many carbs it is. I need to put an app on my phone for that.(I use www.livestrong.com on my laptop alot.) I am glad I only ate half of that wrap! That satisfied me so I didn't eat more.
I am really trying to listen to my body more than my head. I was raised to clean my plate. Never waste food. Growing up on powdered milk & eggs, canned meats, processed cheese food, & whatever could be stretched to feed 9 people, I also learned to really enjoy good food. Usually very fattening food. It wasn't just the type of food, but when & how much I ate. This is a complete lifestyle change. Learning other ways to cope with stress & emotions as well.
I had chicken with lettuce & Lemonaise for lunch again today. The downfall of cooking too much! I hate to waste it. I am going to my first LB support meeting tonight. I know.. I had my procedure almost 8 months ago & have not utilized any of the support resources. My life is busy, & as with most things I was sure I could do it all by myself. That is one of the many factors contributing to my slow progress so far. I did weigh myself today. Mid day with clothes on I am at 185.5lbs. They say the best time to weigh is first thing in the am, sans clothing. I was just curious if all this was working. Two days ago I was at 187lbs. I have to resist weighing myself every day. There will always be fluctuations & it can drive me crazy.
Tonight's support meeting is a recipe exchange so I better find a couple recipes to bring. I am looking forward to some new ideas & finding some different snack options. Of course I will share them!
Truth: This morning I really wanted grits with cheese & bacon, so the wrap was a smarter choice & makes the 15.5 carbs not quite so bad!
This morning I made a "coffee to go" from home. Alot less carbs & cheaper too! We ran late this morning so I grabbed my son breakfast at Burger King. I ate 1/2 of a cheesy bacon wrap, which my carb counting link says is 15.5 carbs! Another "rule" is never eat anything without knowing how many carbs it is. I need to put an app on my phone for that.(I use www.livestrong.com on my laptop alot.) I am glad I only ate half of that wrap! That satisfied me so I didn't eat more.
I am really trying to listen to my body more than my head. I was raised to clean my plate. Never waste food. Growing up on powdered milk & eggs, canned meats, processed cheese food, & whatever could be stretched to feed 9 people, I also learned to really enjoy good food. Usually very fattening food. It wasn't just the type of food, but when & how much I ate. This is a complete lifestyle change. Learning other ways to cope with stress & emotions as well.
I had chicken with lettuce & Lemonaise for lunch again today. The downfall of cooking too much! I hate to waste it. I am going to my first LB support meeting tonight. I know.. I had my procedure almost 8 months ago & have not utilized any of the support resources. My life is busy, & as with most things I was sure I could do it all by myself. That is one of the many factors contributing to my slow progress so far. I did weigh myself today. Mid day with clothes on I am at 185.5lbs. They say the best time to weigh is first thing in the am, sans clothing. I was just curious if all this was working. Two days ago I was at 187lbs. I have to resist weighing myself every day. There will always be fluctuations & it can drive me crazy.
Tonight's support meeting is a recipe exchange so I better find a couple recipes to bring. I am looking forward to some new ideas & finding some different snack options. Of course I will share them!
Truth: This morning I really wanted grits with cheese & bacon, so the wrap was a smarter choice & makes the 15.5 carbs not quite so bad!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Lunch.. so far so good!
I have a busy life. I am often on the run. Today was like that. I grabbed a large coffee first thing & it lasted most of the morning. I have adjusted to sugar free flavored coffee but it took me a while to let go of the whole milk! I love my coffee. It is my "bridge" when I feel the need to have something, especially when I am not really hungry. I drink alot of coffee.
I do not drink water.. any water. I do drink Publix sugar free sweetened tea. (light blue cap) I quit soda over 2 years ago. I am thinking of trying to drink 1 bottle of water a day. Thinking, not doing yet, really don't like water! I have tried adding the powders to it, but I might as well drink my tea if I am gong to do that. One of the hardest changes with the LB is not drinking while I eat. I adjusted to it very fast when the alternative was to throw up what I had just eaten. That is how it affects me anyway. That may not happen with everyone, I can only speak for myself.
I did well today. I put back some cheese straws I almost bought. I told myself 10grams of carbs for several mini straws wasn't so bad. Truth: I would have eaten the whole box which would have been over 100grams of carbs. My daily allowance is supposed to be 39grams. So I put them back!
I resisted the Godiva Caramel Chocolate bar at the checkout & passed by all the drive thru's on the way home. I had some leftover roasted chicken & some romaine lettuce. I chopped up about 1 cup of each. (I still prepare too much in volume for myself, working on that!) I discovered a condiment called Lemonaise.. it has lemon, creole mustard & garlic in it. Tons of flavor & NO CARBS. All natural made by The Ojai Cook. I use it in chicken or tuna salad, on hot chicken or fish. Yummo!
I do not drink water.. any water. I do drink Publix sugar free sweetened tea. (light blue cap) I quit soda over 2 years ago. I am thinking of trying to drink 1 bottle of water a day. Thinking, not doing yet, really don't like water! I have tried adding the powders to it, but I might as well drink my tea if I am gong to do that. One of the hardest changes with the LB is not drinking while I eat. I adjusted to it very fast when the alternative was to throw up what I had just eaten. That is how it affects me anyway. That may not happen with everyone, I can only speak for myself.
I did well today. I put back some cheese straws I almost bought. I told myself 10grams of carbs for several mini straws wasn't so bad. Truth: I would have eaten the whole box which would have been over 100grams of carbs. My daily allowance is supposed to be 39grams. So I put them back!
I resisted the Godiva Caramel Chocolate bar at the checkout & passed by all the drive thru's on the way home. I had some leftover roasted chicken & some romaine lettuce. I chopped up about 1 cup of each. (I still prepare too much in volume for myself, working on that!) I discovered a condiment called Lemonaise.. it has lemon, creole mustard & garlic in it. Tons of flavor & NO CARBS. All natural made by The Ojai Cook. I use it in chicken or tuna salad, on hot chicken or fish. Yummo!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Dinner & a snack
Honestly today I avoided food prior to my Dr. appt. I knew I hadn't lost much & didn't want to add an ounce to the scale! I drank 3 coffees throughout the day til my appt at 3:15 then had another coffee after!
Dinner was about 3-4 oz of Cod (1/2 a filet, saved the other 1/2 for tomorrow) cooked in vegetable broth. Small bites, chewed well.. waited 30 seconds after swallowing before next bite. That helped. Felt satisfied, not hungry for more.
About 2 1/2 hours later I had a handful of almonds, again chewed well & chewed some more, 30 seconds between bites. That amount satisfied me. The 30 second rule I knew about but had not really been doing. Really made a difference tonight.
I always do well on Dr. days.. real test will be after today!
Truth: I ate a Five Guys Little Bacon Cheeseburger last night so to be satisfied with the fish I had tonight was a step forward!
Dinner was about 3-4 oz of Cod (1/2 a filet, saved the other 1/2 for tomorrow) cooked in vegetable broth. Small bites, chewed well.. waited 30 seconds after swallowing before next bite. That helped. Felt satisfied, not hungry for more.
About 2 1/2 hours later I had a handful of almonds, again chewed well & chewed some more, 30 seconds between bites. That amount satisfied me. The 30 second rule I knew about but had not really been doing. Really made a difference tonight.
I always do well on Dr. days.. real test will be after today!
Truth: I ate a Five Guys Little Bacon Cheeseburger last night so to be satisfied with the fish I had tonight was a step forward!
Welcome to Life with My Lap Band!
I am not sure what my goals are, other than to commit myself to document this journey. I am not sure what use this will be to anyone else, but it is a tool I have used before when facing challenges & it really helped.
My surgery date was October 21, 2010. I weighed in at 210lbs. I was borderline BMI, but recently diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis & numerous neck & back issues. Like most I had a hernia repair as well. Recovery went well other than the residual left shoulder pain. That lasted several weeks.
My progress has been slow. Agonizingly slow! Today I weighed in at 187lbs. I had major neck surgery Jan. 20th which set me back quite a bit, but my biggest hurdle is myself. I have a long list of emotional baggage, events that I struggle to deal with every day. (We all do!) I can't seem to turn the corner, take that step forward where I COME FIRST.
It sounds easy enough doesn't it? Put myself first on the grocery list. Put myself first when preparing the family meals. Yet I don't. So I buy what they like, cook what they like, & justify to myself that I might as well eat what is already there.
It is familiar, easy, & ultimately my crutch.
My head knows what I am supposed to do. I nod my head when my Dr. & Nutritionist remind me what I need to do & what is best for me. Today my doc suggested a book for me along with the recommendation I read late at night instead of eating! "Why We Get Fat: And What To Do About It" by Gary Taubes. I am to make notes to discuss with him in 3 weeks. I will let you know what I think.
I have felt frustrated, overwhelmed, & stuck.. physically & emotionally. Some people think the Lap Band is an instant fix. It is not! It is an assistive device, totally dependent on our proper use of it to work. I know two people close to me who have had this procedure. One has been successful, the other ultimately had the band removed without the end result she had hoped for after several issues & complications.
I am moving forward. I will post musings, food logs, recipes & opinions. I will post weight updates as I go. Everyone is different. What works for me may not work for someone else. All any of us can do is try!
My surgery date was October 21, 2010. I weighed in at 210lbs. I was borderline BMI, but recently diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis & numerous neck & back issues. Like most I had a hernia repair as well. Recovery went well other than the residual left shoulder pain. That lasted several weeks.
My progress has been slow. Agonizingly slow! Today I weighed in at 187lbs. I had major neck surgery Jan. 20th which set me back quite a bit, but my biggest hurdle is myself. I have a long list of emotional baggage, events that I struggle to deal with every day. (We all do!) I can't seem to turn the corner, take that step forward where I COME FIRST.
It sounds easy enough doesn't it? Put myself first on the grocery list. Put myself first when preparing the family meals. Yet I don't. So I buy what they like, cook what they like, & justify to myself that I might as well eat what is already there.
It is familiar, easy, & ultimately my crutch.
My head knows what I am supposed to do. I nod my head when my Dr. & Nutritionist remind me what I need to do & what is best for me. Today my doc suggested a book for me along with the recommendation I read late at night instead of eating! "Why We Get Fat: And What To Do About It" by Gary Taubes. I am to make notes to discuss with him in 3 weeks. I will let you know what I think.
I have felt frustrated, overwhelmed, & stuck.. physically & emotionally. Some people think the Lap Band is an instant fix. It is not! It is an assistive device, totally dependent on our proper use of it to work. I know two people close to me who have had this procedure. One has been successful, the other ultimately had the band removed without the end result she had hoped for after several issues & complications.
I am moving forward. I will post musings, food logs, recipes & opinions. I will post weight updates as I go. Everyone is different. What works for me may not work for someone else. All any of us can do is try!
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