Hello! My name is Lisa and I am a Bariatric Speicalist at Clarian Bariatrics. I have 13 years of experience in the medial field and have finally found my calling. I have been with Clarian Bariatrics for one year, and can honestly say that this is where I am suppose to be. We are making a difference, and what we are doing truly matters. Not only am I an associate, but I am a patient as well. With this blog I hope to share my story and hopefully answer some questions and help someone on their journey with weight loss surgery. On a more personal note, I am the proud mother of two teenagers, aged 15 and soon to be 13. I am an avid sports fan, I love to play games, dance and be with my family. In June of last year I married Jason. We are extremely busy attending sports functions with our children. I am also a die hard Colts fan, love the Steelers and watching, playing and all things football related. I enjoy fishing, camping and hiking. My favorite non competitive activity is scrapbooking (I have a mean two hole punch)! Hello! My name is Lisa and I am a Bariatric Speicalist at Clarian Bariatrics. I have 13 years of experience in the medial field and have finally found my calling. I have been with Clarian Bariatrics for one year, and can honestly say that this is where I am suppose to be. We are making a difference, and what we are doing truly matters. Not only am I an associate, but I am a patient as well. With this blog I hope to share my story and hopefully answer some questions and help someone on their journey with weight loss surgery. On a more personal note, I am the proud mother of two teenagers, aged 15 and soon to be 13. I am an avid sports fan, I love to play games, dance and be with my family. In June of last year I married Jason. We are extremely busy attending sports functions with our children. I am also a die hard Colts fan, love the Steelers and watching, playing and all things football related. I enjoy fishing, camping and hiking. My favorite non competitive activity is scrapbooking (I have a mean two hole punch)! When searching for a weight loss program, the first place to start is by asking your family physician for a recommendation. Your doctor should be able to provide you with several options for programs that other patients have found to be successful.
Ideally, you should do a lot of research, ask a lot of questions, and find a weight loss program that you are comfortable with (even excited about participating in!)
Here are the basic things you should consider when researching weight loss programs:
If you would like to learn more tips about searching for a program, please click here.
Ideally, you should do a lot of research, ask a lot of questions, and find a weight loss program that you are comfortable with (even excited about participating in!)
Here are the basic things you should consider when researching weight loss programs:
- How much weight do you wish to lose? Your program should encourage you to set realistic and attainable goals.
- How much support will you receive from the program? Find a program that offers support in ways that suit your lifestyle (online classes, personal counseling, support groups, etc.)
- Can the program be customized to meet your lifestyle? The program you choose should fit the way you live. If they simply make you eat things you don't like, it will be hard to stick with it.
- What kind of maintenance program is provided? The best programs include a maintenance regime that focuses on helping you change your eating and exercise patterns.
If you would like to learn more tips about searching for a program, please click here.
Laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive surgical option because it eliminates the need for a long incision to open the abdomen. With this procedure, a small video camera is inserted through small incisions made in the abdominal wall, and the surgeon views the procedure on a video monitor. This helps the surgeon to achieve better visualization.
Studies have shown that this type of surgery offers the following benefits:
Laparoscopic procedures produce similar weight loss to open surgical methods. However, not all patients are candidates for this approach.
Studies have shown that this type of surgery offers the following benefits:
- Less pain.
- Easier breathing and increased lung function.
- Fewer wound complications.
- Faster recovery times.
Laparoscopic procedures produce similar weight loss to open surgical methods. However, not all patients are candidates for this approach.
Restrictive operations serve only to restrict food intake and do not interfere with the normal digestive process. To perform the surgery, doctors create a small pouch at the top of the stomach where food enters from the esophagus. Initially, the pouch holds about one ounce of food and later expands to hold more. The lower outlet of the pouch has a small opening to delay the emptying of food from the pouch and cause a feeling of fullness.
Restrictive operations for obesity include the Adjustable Gastric Ban (LAP-BAND), which restricts the size of the stomach using a band.
Although restrictive operations lead to weight loss in almost all patients, they are less successful than malabsorptive operations in achieving substantial, long-term weight loss. Some patients regain weight. Others are unable to adjust their eating habits and fail to lose the desired weight. Successful results depend on the patient's willingness to adopt a long-term plan of healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Restrictive operations for obesity include the Adjustable Gastric Ban (LAP-BAND), which restricts the size of the stomach using a band.
Although restrictive operations lead to weight loss in almost all patients, they are less successful than malabsorptive operations in achieving substantial, long-term weight loss. Some patients regain weight. Others are unable to adjust their eating habits and fail to lose the desired weight. Successful results depend on the patient's willingness to adopt a long-term plan of healthy eating and regular physical activity.
As was mentioned earlier, Clarian Bariatrics recently moved into a new 30,000 square foot clinic space to better accommodate our program's recent growth. We now have more meeting space, a dedicated fitness room and more exam rooms. Not to mention that the new location (directly across the parking lot from the "old" one) is absolutely beautiful!
So why am I telling you this? Because we want you to come check it out for yourself via visiting an upcoming support group! We are going to be having the small group sessions this Tuesday, October 20 from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. and we would love to have you join us.
You can find directions to our new location by clicking on this link. See you soon!
So why am I telling you this? Because we want you to come check it out for yourself via visiting an upcoming support group! We are going to be having the small group sessions this Tuesday, October 20 from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. and we would love to have you join us.
You can find directions to our new location by clicking on this link. See you soon!
We recently received a blog comment asking about the cost of a typical procedure. While there are many variables as each patient is different, I thought I would re-run the posting as a way to answer some additional questions.
I am often asked by prospective patients the price of Bariatric surgery. I try to give a ball park figure, but it is a price that I cannot quote exactly. Prior to surgery we verify the benefits available to each patient with their insurance plan. If insurance is not an option, I offer the patient the cash pay rate. This is not one fee for all; you will receive a balance of approximately $26,000
A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.
If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010 or attend a FREE seminar.
I am often asked by prospective patients the price of Bariatric surgery. I try to give a ball park figure, but it is a price that I cannot quote exactly. Prior to surgery we verify the benefits available to each patient with their insurance plan. If insurance is not an option, I offer the patient the cash pay rate. This is not one fee for all; you will receive a balance of approximately $26,000
A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.
If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010 or attend a FREE seminar.
So you think you want to have Bariatric surgery? So, you think you can do this alone? I beg to differ. You can read all the information posted on any Web site, soak up all the info from Oprah and TLC, but you have no idea what your contemplating until you speak to a patient first hand. Every story is different every patient is different every situation is different. The common denominator in all successful Bariatric patients, and in every Bariatric story and situation, is the support system.
If you have surgery in a weight loss surgery center that does not have an adequate support system in place, and you do not have an abundance of supporting people around you, do not stop looking. The Indianapolis Clarian Bariatric Center is supportive on more than the level. The search for a proper fit is so important; do not settle for just any old place to change the rest of your life.
Yes, we stand behind our beliefs, we believe what we say and we walk what we talk. Those are very important items when considering weight loss surgery. No person can do this alone, the education aspect alone could be overpowering. Whether your support system is family, friends or loved ones we are always here to lend a hand, loan an ear or offer a word of encouragement.
The people who work at Clarian Bariatrics believe in our passion. We want all of you to succeed and the only way to do that is support! Support does not mean, contribute to lifestyles that will harm a Bariatric patient, and often it is given to our patients in an honest straight forward manner, but it is given in love. Support groups. walking groups, copings skills classes, cooking classes are all ways to build a stronger foundation for a successful outcome. Come and visit us at our education seminars (we have one this week) and take the steps to changing the rest of your life.
If you have surgery in a weight loss surgery center that does not have an adequate support system in place, and you do not have an abundance of supporting people around you, do not stop looking. The Indianapolis Clarian Bariatric Center is supportive on more than the level. The search for a proper fit is so important; do not settle for just any old place to change the rest of your life.
Yes, we stand behind our beliefs, we believe what we say and we walk what we talk. Those are very important items when considering weight loss surgery. No person can do this alone, the education aspect alone could be overpowering. Whether your support system is family, friends or loved ones we are always here to lend a hand, loan an ear or offer a word of encouragement.
The people who work at Clarian Bariatrics believe in our passion. We want all of you to succeed and the only way to do that is support! Support does not mean, contribute to lifestyles that will harm a Bariatric patient, and often it is given to our patients in an honest straight forward manner, but it is given in love. Support groups. walking groups, copings skills classes, cooking classes are all ways to build a stronger foundation for a successful outcome. Come and visit us at our education seminars (we have one this week) and take the steps to changing the rest of your life.
I hope everyone is having a great summer! As always, the Buckalew household is running on high. Those are the moments I wanted to address. I have spent the last six odd weeks running my daughter back and forth on a three hour round trip to a conservatory for play writing. Add that to a regular work day, softball games and vacation bible school and before you know it, you are off of schedule and the golden arches look really good as a supper solution, even to the post Bariatric patient. Remember we have had surgery on our stomach, not our mind so we still fight those same old hateful urges.
STOP! Put that cheeseburger down and step away from the counter. I know there are healthier options at local fast food chains, but as a Indiana weight loss surgery patient I have paid the price for a trip to the Arches, a ride with the King or a swim with Long John. We need to stay away from those places. If you are tempted to try just one fry, who is to say you will not slip down that slope to a value meal (the fries are cheaper in that)?
If you must stop somewhere, go for a salad (no dressing), hold the cheese and croutons. Add lemon juice and salt and pepper and tons of veggies. The cheese is never 1% or 2% and you add tons of unnecessary calories to our day. I will run over to Subway and get a salad with grilled chicken and loads of veggies on these harried days. The kids love it and it is a better option than the burger joint.
Sometimes these places are a huge trigger for us and I admit I have tried. That doesn’t make me a failure. It does make me very cranky; the stomach cramps are not pleasant. Take it from one who has sailed with the arches, the king and Long John. Do not go there. Think ahead, keep your plans on a calendar so that you know the commitments for the day and can prepare ahead of time. Preparation is the key. If you have specific dietary questions feel free to call one of Clarian Bariatrics Registered Dieticians at 317-275-6067.
STOP! Put that cheeseburger down and step away from the counter. I know there are healthier options at local fast food chains, but as a Indiana weight loss surgery patient I have paid the price for a trip to the Arches, a ride with the King or a swim with Long John. We need to stay away from those places. If you are tempted to try just one fry, who is to say you will not slip down that slope to a value meal (the fries are cheaper in that)?
If you must stop somewhere, go for a salad (no dressing), hold the cheese and croutons. Add lemon juice and salt and pepper and tons of veggies. The cheese is never 1% or 2% and you add tons of unnecessary calories to our day. I will run over to Subway and get a salad with grilled chicken and loads of veggies on these harried days. The kids love it and it is a better option than the burger joint.
Sometimes these places are a huge trigger for us and I admit I have tried. That doesn’t make me a failure. It does make me very cranky; the stomach cramps are not pleasant. Take it from one who has sailed with the arches, the king and Long John. Do not go there. Think ahead, keep your plans on a calendar so that you know the commitments for the day and can prepare ahead of time. Preparation is the key. If you have specific dietary questions feel free to call one of Clarian Bariatrics Registered Dieticians at 317-275-6067.
The best thing we can eat for dessert is fruit. Here we have taken a delicious summertime fruit and added protein...a perfect combo! Do you have a recipe question? Then ask Annessa at annessa@flourishyourlife.com.
Summertime Strawberry Cream
6 ounces silken tofu
8 ounces light vanilla yogurt
1 small package sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
2 1/2 cups (about 1, 16 ounce container) cups sliced fresh strawberries
2 cups sugar-free Cool Whip
Summertime Strawberry Cream
6 ounces silken tofu
8 ounces light vanilla yogurt
1 small package sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
2 1/2 cups (about 1, 16 ounce container) cups sliced fresh strawberries
2 cups sugar-free Cool Whip
- In a medium bowl, beat silken tofu and vanilla pudding until smooth.
- Add the package of pudding, and beat until well combined. Add 1 cup sliced strawberries and 1 cup sugar-free Cool Whip and beat well.
- Fold in last cup of Cool Whip and scoop out into 4-ounce serving cups. Refrigerate until consumed!
Hey all, if you did not attend the cooking class on June 25 you missed a great time. Anessa introduced some great ideas and recipes to keep our summer on track. The crowd was great with more than 60 patients in attendance! Just one more way our team stands behind our you after surgery. I hope to see all of you at the next class later this year.
During the next few weeks, I will be posting the recipes Anessa developed for the class, (they all tasted so good). Remember the recipes can be tweaked to your tastes, experiment and ejoy.
Caramel Drizzle Protein Shake
Most of us will use a protein supplement for the first year after weight loss surgery. Therefore, we better find food we like! After the first year, most bariatric patients can get the protein needed through food. However, if you need a shake...use it!
8 ounces skim milk or 1% soy milk
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 tablespoon toasted wheat germ
1 tablespoon sugar free instant pudding mix, butterscotch flavor
1 teaspoon sugar free caramel syrup (such as Starbucks sugar free caramel latte syrup)
A handful of ice
In a blender, combine all the ingredients, blending until smooth. Add more ice if desired.
Enjoy your cold and frothy shake!
During the next few weeks, I will be posting the recipes Anessa developed for the class, (they all tasted so good). Remember the recipes can be tweaked to your tastes, experiment and ejoy.
Caramel Drizzle Protein Shake
Most of us will use a protein supplement for the first year after weight loss surgery. Therefore, we better find food we like! After the first year, most bariatric patients can get the protein needed through food. However, if you need a shake...use it!
8 ounces skim milk or 1% soy milk
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 tablespoon toasted wheat germ
1 tablespoon sugar free instant pudding mix, butterscotch flavor
1 teaspoon sugar free caramel syrup (such as Starbucks sugar free caramel latte syrup)
A handful of ice
In a blender, combine all the ingredients, blending until smooth. Add more ice if desired.
Enjoy your cold and frothy shake!
Use my "Lisa's Tomato Sauce" recipe from last week for this dish. You can search all back recipes by typing "recipe" in the search box on the right!
CHICKEN MOZZARELLA CASSEROLE
4 baked skinless chicken breasts ( use a cooking spray and brown with some onion in a skillet)
1 bunch green onion
I c mozzarella 2% cheese
4 c Lisa’s tomato sauce
1 clove garlic minced
Cook chicken and shred or cut in bite size pieces place in 9 x 13 casserole dish, add green onion chopped and minced garlic. Salt and pepper if needed. Cover with the red sauce and stir so all chicken is covered. Cover with mozzarella and bake at 380° for 15 to 20 minutes or until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Serves 12 130 calories, 4,2 g fat and 17.5 g protein
CHICKEN MOZZARELLA CASSEROLE
4 baked skinless chicken breasts ( use a cooking spray and brown with some onion in a skillet)
1 bunch green onion
I c mozzarella 2% cheese
4 c Lisa’s tomato sauce
1 clove garlic minced
Cook chicken and shred or cut in bite size pieces place in 9 x 13 casserole dish, add green onion chopped and minced garlic. Salt and pepper if needed. Cover with the red sauce and stir so all chicken is covered. Cover with mozzarella and bake at 380° for 15 to 20 minutes or until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Serves 12 130 calories, 4,2 g fat and 17.5 g protein
Have you felt that beautiful sun on your face? Although the last couple days have been rainy, the last couple weeks have been amazing, especially for Indiana. We, as a family traveled north to celebrate Memorial Day with both sets of our parents. This was quite the adventure.
Both sides of our families are prone to be on the heavy side, but I wanted all of us to participate and enjoy ourselves. That is often hard when you are overweight and you feel like you are sitting on the outside watching everyone “play” and you can only cheer them on.
For my family most of their activity would focus around sedentary games such as cards, or checkers. Not this year, we had yard games set out and enjoyed a very entertaining afternoon. The smallest increase in your activity level is a change for the better. We spent several hours playing yard golf (you know, the game where you throw golf balls on a string over a goal made of PVC). This very limited activity level got a good portion of the family dancing and taunting the rival team in good old fashion fun.
All in all it was a day for the scrapbook, having both grandpas even one of the grandmas swing those balls and crying out in frustration. How many of those days do we have in our past? I can tell you I have a whole lot more in my future.
RUN DO NOT WALK! Make that change today, start out with the small things like yard golf. Not only are you making memories for you, your children and your whole family you are scrapbooking the ever changing face of your journey. Be an inspiration, a motivation to those around you. Make a difference. Make your own support group at home and them come and compare notes and learn others approaches at the support groups at Clarian Bariatrics. Give us a call at 317-275-7010 for the latest schedule of events.
Both sides of our families are prone to be on the heavy side, but I wanted all of us to participate and enjoy ourselves. That is often hard when you are overweight and you feel like you are sitting on the outside watching everyone “play” and you can only cheer them on.
For my family most of their activity would focus around sedentary games such as cards, or checkers. Not this year, we had yard games set out and enjoyed a very entertaining afternoon. The smallest increase in your activity level is a change for the better. We spent several hours playing yard golf (you know, the game where you throw golf balls on a string over a goal made of PVC). This very limited activity level got a good portion of the family dancing and taunting the rival team in good old fashion fun.
All in all it was a day for the scrapbook, having both grandpas even one of the grandmas swing those balls and crying out in frustration. How many of those days do we have in our past? I can tell you I have a whole lot more in my future.
RUN DO NOT WALK! Make that change today, start out with the small things like yard golf. Not only are you making memories for you, your children and your whole family you are scrapbooking the ever changing face of your journey. Be an inspiration, a motivation to those around you. Make a difference. Make your own support group at home and them come and compare notes and learn others approaches at the support groups at Clarian Bariatrics. Give us a call at 317-275-7010 for the latest schedule of events.
I know as the summer comes on full force it is hard to get new and fun recipes that the whole family will enjoy. I try to prepare a few easy meals that my husband can pop in the oven and we all can enjoy without having to eat dinner at 10 p.m. Preparation is the key; as I have said before, always have a few standbys.
Pasta sauce is one of those, if you make it ahead and freeze, pulling it out and adding some protein just takes a second. Here is the pasta sauce I keep on hand and an exaple of one of our favorite “Friday” meals as we call them. This is one the kids are okay eating any day of the week. Add a salad of your favorite veggies with a new kick on dressing.
As a bariatric patient I chose to not eat dressings, but plain lettuce is not for me, so I take a quarter to a half of a lemon squeezing juice directly to the salad with salt and pepper and you have a very refreshing summer salad.
LISA’S TOMATOE SAUCE (Pasta or Pizza)
4 c tomato sauce ( you can use can if you do not have fresh)
2 cloves garlic
one can green chilis ( this gives it a little kick)
1 yellow pepper diced
1 orange pepper diced
1 red pepper diced
1 med Vidalia onion diced
oregano
basil (I use all of these to my taste, do not be afraid to try it)
salt and pepper
Add all to a soup pot or something you can cover let simmer until all veggies are soft.
You can puree the veggies if you do not like a chunky sauce ( I like it with some texture)
Pasta sauce is one of those, if you make it ahead and freeze, pulling it out and adding some protein just takes a second. Here is the pasta sauce I keep on hand and an exaple of one of our favorite “Friday” meals as we call them. This is one the kids are okay eating any day of the week. Add a salad of your favorite veggies with a new kick on dressing.
As a bariatric patient I chose to not eat dressings, but plain lettuce is not for me, so I take a quarter to a half of a lemon squeezing juice directly to the salad with salt and pepper and you have a very refreshing summer salad.
LISA’S TOMATOE SAUCE (Pasta or Pizza)
4 c tomato sauce ( you can use can if you do not have fresh)
2 cloves garlic
one can green chilis ( this gives it a little kick)
1 yellow pepper diced
1 orange pepper diced
1 red pepper diced
1 med Vidalia onion diced
oregano
basil (I use all of these to my taste, do not be afraid to try it)
salt and pepper
Add all to a soup pot or something you can cover let simmer until all veggies are soft.
You can puree the veggies if you do not like a chunky sauce ( I like it with some texture)
We spent a marvelous Friday out at the track for our patient event. Can I just say WOW! 
Everyone is looking good, and I feel so proud. I really have no part in their personal success. They own that completely, but it is like watching my children learn something new or master something they are struggling with. It makes a Mom proud.
I think it is important for our bariatric surgery patients to know that we feel a sense in pride in their accomplishments. We are cheering them on as they sail into their very own victory lane. Please know that the entire staff is here for you, cheering, encouraging, “fueling you up” if needed.
I think this personal mission is what sets Clarian Bariatrics apart from all the others. The commitment to our patients is our number one priority. We want all of our patients to succeed and will do all we can to provide you with the appropriate tools for the job.
Everyone is looking good, and I feel so proud. I really have no part in their personal success. They own that completely, but it is like watching my children learn something new or master something they are struggling with. It makes a Mom proud.I think it is important for our bariatric surgery patients to know that we feel a sense in pride in their accomplishments. We are cheering them on as they sail into their very own victory lane. Please know that the entire staff is here for you, cheering, encouraging, “fueling you up” if needed.
I think this personal mission is what sets Clarian Bariatrics apart from all the others. The commitment to our patients is our number one priority. We want all of our patients to succeed and will do all we can to provide you with the appropriate tools for the job.
So sorry to not have written in a while, but I have fallen victim to the “oh my world.” You know what I mean, you wake up and the hot water is on the fritz, the kids are arguing at the top of their lungs, and nobody made any ice tea when they finished the pitcher (they did leave it on the counter as evidence). We all have those days or even weeks, as a weight loss surgery patient and it is important to realize that these days could sabotage your journey. Pay attention and not fall prey to those evil times.
I have stated before, I try to make my meals ahead to avoid the easy drive thru solution, that becomes increasingly more difficult in the summer months, so be prepared. Plan ahead. When you are preparing one meal double the recipe and freeze the second portion.
When you are making soup or sauces double or triple as a handy go to in your freezer. I often use store bought salsa as a base for vegetable soup and chili. I even make a great dip for veggies and chips (flat out of course). These simple ideas can help us bari people avoid the back sliding. It is just as important, scratch that, it is more important the further out we are that we do not become slack in our habits of preparation.
We always must be ready when the time for eating comes around. For great recipe ideas check out the rest of our blog and experiment, believe me you will love these.
I have stated before, I try to make my meals ahead to avoid the easy drive thru solution, that becomes increasingly more difficult in the summer months, so be prepared. Plan ahead. When you are preparing one meal double the recipe and freeze the second portion.
When you are making soup or sauces double or triple as a handy go to in your freezer. I often use store bought salsa as a base for vegetable soup and chili. I even make a great dip for veggies and chips (flat out of course). These simple ideas can help us bari people avoid the back sliding. It is just as important, scratch that, it is more important the further out we are that we do not become slack in our habits of preparation.
We always must be ready when the time for eating comes around. For great recipe ideas check out the rest of our blog and experiment, believe me you will love these.
I am often asked by prospective patients the price of Bariatric surgery. I try to give a ball park figure, but it is a price that I cannot quote exactly. Prior to surgery we verify the benefits available to each patient with their insurance plan. If insurance is not an option, I offer the patient the cash pay rate. This is not one fee for all; you will receive a balance of approximately $26,000
A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.
If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010.
A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.
If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010.
I was sitting in the kitchen this past weekend, going through the same cabinets over and over trying to figure out what I was going to make for dinner. I know this is a dilemma that most working mothers face nightly so I try very hard to plan my meals out earlier in the week, so I am not tempted to make a run for the border or take a drive to the Golden Arches.
One of my biggest hurdles is trying to keep the menu varied. I am nearly 2 ½ years post op and the menu can be a little intimidating after a while. The children like pasta and potatoes and I chose to not fix those so I must come up with a healthy alternative. I make a homemade spaghetti sauce and I have a great low carb alternative to lasagna noodles or spaghetti.
Take an egg and beat as if you were making scrambles eggs. Spray a non stick pan with a non stick spray. Pour a very thin layer of egg on the bottom (just enough to coat the pan). This should be thin almost the consistency of a piece of filo dough. The egg will cook quickly so watch closely.
These are great to stack and cut as if noodles, to use as lasagna or to use as a wrap for tamales, etc. Once you put it in place of the noodles, you will not even know it is eggs. My children do not even know it when I use these. It allows the Bariatric patients to have the same “comfort foods” without the negative feelings of cheating.
One of my biggest hurdles is trying to keep the menu varied. I am nearly 2 ½ years post op and the menu can be a little intimidating after a while. The children like pasta and potatoes and I chose to not fix those so I must come up with a healthy alternative. I make a homemade spaghetti sauce and I have a great low carb alternative to lasagna noodles or spaghetti.
Take an egg and beat as if you were making scrambles eggs. Spray a non stick pan with a non stick spray. Pour a very thin layer of egg on the bottom (just enough to coat the pan). This should be thin almost the consistency of a piece of filo dough. The egg will cook quickly so watch closely.
These are great to stack and cut as if noodles, to use as lasagna or to use as a wrap for tamales, etc. Once you put it in place of the noodles, you will not even know it is eggs. My children do not even know it when I use these. It allows the Bariatric patients to have the same “comfort foods” without the negative feelings of cheating.
I was flipping through the television channels late on Monday evening and a program on the Discovery channel caught my attention. The show was talking about the ways we “beat” ourselves up.
It made me stop and evaluate our daily processes. Clarian Bariatrics has a multidisciplinary team that can help with many issues that are not visible to the average person. I have spoken several times about the way a weight loss surgery patient is viewed before and after the surgery. Dr William Hilgendorf is leading several pre and post-operative classes with varied topics from body image to addictions and several in between.
It is hard sometimes to deal with reality and what we view as reality. The people to handle the situation are here, and all you have to do is ask. We pride ourselves in leading the way in the the Bariatric field. The difference between our program and others is we are dealing with more than a person’s stomach.
For you to be successful you must look at all layers of who you are and why we are the way we are. Programs such as the one on the Discovery Channel give out misinformation that I (not psychologically trained) find frustrating. These people need help on several levels and do not know where to turn.
Do not be one of the many individuals that does not seek out the appropriate professional to help you with a very difficult decision, problem or treatment plan for these issues. Clarian Bariatrics staff are professionally trained and leaders in their given field of study. Do not let anything sabotage you on your road to success. Seek out the help, and view Clarian Bariatrics' mental health team is one more leg to help support you.
It made me stop and evaluate our daily processes. Clarian Bariatrics has a multidisciplinary team that can help with many issues that are not visible to the average person. I have spoken several times about the way a weight loss surgery patient is viewed before and after the surgery. Dr William Hilgendorf is leading several pre and post-operative classes with varied topics from body image to addictions and several in between.
It is hard sometimes to deal with reality and what we view as reality. The people to handle the situation are here, and all you have to do is ask. We pride ourselves in leading the way in the the Bariatric field. The difference between our program and others is we are dealing with more than a person’s stomach.
For you to be successful you must look at all layers of who you are and why we are the way we are. Programs such as the one on the Discovery Channel give out misinformation that I (not psychologically trained) find frustrating. These people need help on several levels and do not know where to turn.
Do not be one of the many individuals that does not seek out the appropriate professional to help you with a very difficult decision, problem or treatment plan for these issues. Clarian Bariatrics staff are professionally trained and leaders in their given field of study. Do not let anything sabotage you on your road to success. Seek out the help, and view Clarian Bariatrics' mental health team is one more leg to help support you.
Morbid obesity is an issue that often affects families as a whole. If you look at most families they tend to resemble each other in appearance. Not all, but most. I had my surgery almost 2 ½ years ago and now I am blessed to watch as my youngest sister begin her journey. Actually, she is about halfway through with the six month requirements that her insurance requires, and she is doing amazing! The Liver Reduction Diet was something difficult for her to grasp but she has lost over half of her required goal! Go sis!
She is so determined to make this successful she is truly an inspiration to me and any one who cares to watch. She walks every evening after working a minimum of ten hours and caring for her three young children (9, 6 and 3). She has come to the conclusion she has to do this for herself, to be a better mom to those babies. We walk together and it is hilarious. We include our mother, who is a character in her own right, in these evening walks.
These evening walks are filled with great stories of the day. Great memories of the past and those embarrassing moments only a sister would remember. We tag team on our mom and do not give her a moment’s break. (What are daughters to do, but utilize a perfect opportunity to drive our mother silly)?
Three months ago she could not make it around the block before she had to take a break, now she does nearly a mile before she takes a minute to catch her breath. What an accomplishment to go from a block to a mile in less than three months. I often talk about setting small goals, and this is the perfect example of what can be accomplished in a very short time. In the big scope of life what is three months?
As we enter the Easter season, I have reflected on the relationships we have both good and bad. Those relationships have a huge impact on our success, on our view of the world and our self. We need to be grateful for the strong, positive relationships we all have and work to improve the ones that can cause negative influences on our journey. Always encourage others and be the one who offers a smile even when one is not returned. I am as guilty as the next or letting the world bring me down, but we should fight that urge. We all get tired, but remember you are doing this for a better tomorrow for you and your family.
She is so determined to make this successful she is truly an inspiration to me and any one who cares to watch. She walks every evening after working a minimum of ten hours and caring for her three young children (9, 6 and 3). She has come to the conclusion she has to do this for herself, to be a better mom to those babies. We walk together and it is hilarious. We include our mother, who is a character in her own right, in these evening walks.
These evening walks are filled with great stories of the day. Great memories of the past and those embarrassing moments only a sister would remember. We tag team on our mom and do not give her a moment’s break. (What are daughters to do, but utilize a perfect opportunity to drive our mother silly)?
Three months ago she could not make it around the block before she had to take a break, now she does nearly a mile before she takes a minute to catch her breath. What an accomplishment to go from a block to a mile in less than three months. I often talk about setting small goals, and this is the perfect example of what can be accomplished in a very short time. In the big scope of life what is three months?
As we enter the Easter season, I have reflected on the relationships we have both good and bad. Those relationships have a huge impact on our success, on our view of the world and our self. We need to be grateful for the strong, positive relationships we all have and work to improve the ones that can cause negative influences on our journey. Always encourage others and be the one who offers a smile even when one is not returned. I am as guilty as the next or letting the world bring me down, but we should fight that urge. We all get tired, but remember you are doing this for a better tomorrow for you and your family.
Oh, I am guilty too! The idea of one more thing on my calendar honestly makes my heart beat a little faster. A full time career, completing my bachelor’s degree, a marriage (I do occasionally like to see my husband), a home, two teenagers who are involved in more than one activity every season. We range from youth group to golf to young playwright workshops to football to drivers training. Whew! I don’t know about you but it wears me out just to read the list.
Now, what about exercise? We all know we must keep that as a priority daily to stay healthy. I am the perfect example of the hectic schedule and I must allow myself time daily to work on me. I try to add activity in at any opportunity. I take the stairs instead of the elevator, I do lunges around the kitchen while my popcorn is popping, I take the long route to the restroom at work. Adding extra steps in as a starting point.
If you are intimidated by joining an organized exercise, yoga or dance class get a partner and workout at home. There are some great DVD’s available for less than $10. Start in your very own living room or garage. Even if you can only work out for 20 minutes a day, think how far you could come in a month, two or six.
I honestly, cannot stand to walk on a treadmill; it is my ultimate last resort, but 20 minutes on that while listening to an iPod of my favorite tunes is better than sitting on my tush watching Wheel of Fortune. I am spinning my very own wheel by trying to incorporate everything I have learned at Clarian Bariatrics. Give us a call to learn more about weight loss surgery, bariatric surgery costs and bariatric weight loss and start spinning your wheel of fortune.
Now, what about exercise? We all know we must keep that as a priority daily to stay healthy. I am the perfect example of the hectic schedule and I must allow myself time daily to work on me. I try to add activity in at any opportunity. I take the stairs instead of the elevator, I do lunges around the kitchen while my popcorn is popping, I take the long route to the restroom at work. Adding extra steps in as a starting point.
If you are intimidated by joining an organized exercise, yoga or dance class get a partner and workout at home. There are some great DVD’s available for less than $10. Start in your very own living room or garage. Even if you can only work out for 20 minutes a day, think how far you could come in a month, two or six.
I honestly, cannot stand to walk on a treadmill; it is my ultimate last resort, but 20 minutes on that while listening to an iPod of my favorite tunes is better than sitting on my tush watching Wheel of Fortune. I am spinning my very own wheel by trying to incorporate everything I have learned at Clarian Bariatrics. Give us a call to learn more about weight loss surgery, bariatric surgery costs and bariatric weight loss and start spinning your wheel of fortune.
Powered by Compendium Blogware