Cooking Class Reminder

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Terri Hohlt
It's time for cooking class again!

On Tuesday December 1, Clarian Bariatrics will hold a cooking class with dietician Annessa Chumbley. The event will be held at our outpatient clinic located at 6640 Intech Boulevard, Suite 300 - Indianapolis from 6 p.m. -7:30 p.m.

The class will be holiday themed and will have foods that will work on Liver Reduction Plan as well as post-surgical Diets. Please RSVP to achumble@clarian.org or call 317-275-7015. Please leave your name, phone number, and how many people will be attending.

Besides delicious ideas, all attendees will receive a special gift!

Walk the Talk Event this Saturday!

Thursday, November 19, 2009 by Erin Light
Are you looking for a way to get some exercise in this weekend?

Walk the Talk will be getting together for the last charity walk of the season.  Come join us as we participate in the St. Jude Children’s Research 5K on Saturday, November 21 at 9 a.m.  The walk will be held at Northwestway Park located at 5253 W 62nd St, Indianapolis 43268.  This walk will be a paved path that is 1.6 miles long.  It is a beautiful park that will make a great location during this time of year! 

By walking in this 5K event, we can help the doctors and researchers at St. Jude find lifesaving cures for desperately ill children in communities everywhere. By walking, we can bring hope to the patients and families that walk through the doors of St. Jude everyday in search of a cure.

If you would like to join us in this cause, please sign up on our team page, and click on Sign up to Walk.  During your registration, it will ask you to “Join a Team”---look for our Clarian Bariatrics Walk the Talk team!  Everyone who joins the team will receive a free Walk the Talk t-Shirt!  We hope to see you there! Feel free to call me at 317-275-7017 if you have questions

Clarian Bariatrics in the News!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 by Andy Pollen
Check out a recent article from the Indianapolis Star that features a few quotes by our very own Anessa!

Experts weigh in on growing trend toward use of supplements
Indianapolis Star - Indianapolis,IN,USA
... that fat burners work or if they are safe to take over a long period of time," said Annessa Chumbley, registered dietitian with Clarian Bariatrics. ...


What Do You Talk About in Support Group?

Monday, November 16, 2009 by Sarah Muntel
Do you ever wonder what you’re missing? At our “On Track” group for patients greater than one year post-op last week, we talked about breakfast ideas! When each patient was asked what their favorite breakfast was, the most common response was oatmeal! What a great choice! Oatmeal is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates! They recommended trying pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice for variety.

Richard Menning, a regular support group attendee gave his egg recipe he makes up ahead of time.
  • Spray 12 muffin tins with non stick cooking spray. 
  • Brown 1 pound of breakfast turkey sausage.  Chop an onion, green pepper.  Add to turkey sausage.  Saute.  Add to muffin tins.
  • Beat 8 eggs and add 1-2 ounces of milk.  Pour over sausage/vegetable mixture.
  • Sprinkle with cheese.
  • Bake at 350 for 23 minutes!  Eat immediately or freeze for later!

Looking for more ideas?  Plan on attending our “On Track” Group that meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Clarian Bariatrics outpatient clinic. See you there!

Brook's Journey

Saturday, November 14, 2009 by Terri Hohlt
I just wanted to post a video from one of our many success stories, Brook. She was kind enough to share her story with the Indianapolis area by being featured in Clarian Bariatrics commericals. Brook is a great example of how weight loss surgery can change your life.

If you would like to learn more about the bariatric surgery process, please come listen to one of our Indianapolis-based surgeons discuss treatment options and much more at a FREE informational seminar. Dates, times and the ability to RSVP can be found by clicking here.

Celebrating My "Surgiversary," Part II

Friday, November 13, 2009 by Traci Baker
I am a firm believer of following the program guidelines but I am not perfect, I am human and I will make mistakes.  I have made myself very aware of the consequences of what happens when I venture off the beaten path. 

I have a “healthy” fear of dumping and hope that fear stays with me for a long time.

Reality has shown me that some people will never understand or support my decision to have Bariatric surgery and I have chosen to be at peace with that.

I want people to know that Bariatric surgery is no way the easy way out in fact it’s quite the opposite.  This is a lifelong lifestyle change that takes hard work and dedication.  This surgery not only affects me but also those closest to me.

No matter how much research I did before surgery, nothing could ever truly prepare me for the life changing events it would bring to me physically, mentally and spiritually.

It takes 20 minutes for my head to catch up with my stomach.  Slowing down to eat in this fast past world is challenging but a necessary part of my weight loss journey.

Learning to put myself first and take care of ME is still something I struggle with but strive to accomplish daily.

No Bariatric patient is a perfect mirror image of me.  We are all very individual people with different experiences but seem to have the unspoken understanding of what the other has gone through. 

No matter what my physical size or shape is, people will always have an opinion and the only one that truly matters is MINE!!  What’s most important is how I feel about myself! 

If it wasn’t for the love and support of my family and friends I would not be the person I am today.

Support Groups this Week!

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Sarah Muntel
I just wanted to offer a quick reminder of the numerous support opportunities occuring this week through Clarian Bariatrics!

Total Body Fitness
Tuesday, November 10
5:30-6:00 p.m.
A free class for all patients!

“On Track”
Tuesday, November 10
Time:  6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
These groups are for all patients greater than one year post-op.
Speaker: Erin Light

Behavior Change Group
Tuesday, November 10
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Speaker:  Misty Hawkins
These groups are for all patients!

Clarian Health Cicero Group
Thursday, November 12
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Cicero, 1160 S Peru Street, State Road 19,  Cicero IN
Topic:  Exercise
Speaker:  Angela Marsden

Cicero is a great group for those of you who live on the northside of Indianapolis!

Please call us at 317-275-7010 if you have any questions. See you soon!

Celebrating My "Surgiversary," Part I

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Traci Baker
October 2009 marked my two year re-birth date! I’m still learning to be a Bariatric patient even after two years into my weight loss journey. Some thoughts I’d like to share:

Bari bellies are a sensitive piece of real estate! It is crucial that I respect my piece of real estate and give it the proper nourishment/vitamins it needs. Protein, protein and more protein along with hydration or I’m feeling down in the dumps!

A lifestyle/behavior change is a necessary daily practice.  If I choose to continue my old behaviors I’m choosing to sabotage myself.  Life happens and when it does I have the choice to repeat my old behavior or make the better/healthier choice in those moments.  These are times when I find myself reaching out to a friend.

I still have good days, great days and bad days. 

I truly believe in having “Safe People” in my life who understand what I’m going through as a Bariatric patient.  I need people who can relate with me physically, emotionally and spiritually to help support me while being genuine.

I have to be mindful of head hunger because it is always lingering.  Each day is different and sometimes it can be very challenging to overcome the head hunger.  This is another time when I know I need to change the scenery or reach out for help.

Honesty and open communication is essential with my surgeon, dietitian, and my support people along with myself.  Being sincere helps me stay on track and not self-sabotage.  Denying the truth only hurts me.

Handful Harry is a demon on my shoulder who will probably always exist and is a constant reminder to me that the operation was performed on my stomach not my head.

Check out Part II on Friday!

Success Tips for Bariatric Surgery

Friday, November 6, 2009 by Sarah Muntel
How are you doing with your program?  Look at the tips below and see how you’re doing.
  1. Eat three good quality meals per day.  Fill your plate with lots of protein and veggies. Meals should be centered around a protein source. Protein is important to maintain your body’s muscle mass, for healing and also makes you feel full for a longer period of time. Vegetables also fill you up with very few calories and provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs!
  2. Drink lots of calorie free fluids!  Water, water and more water is always best.  Try crystal light, decaf tea, and other sugar free beverages.  Avoid caffeine and carbonation.
  3. Don’t snack! Mindless snacking leads to too many calories and can lead you back to bad habits.  If you are going long time periods between meals (> 5 hours), try a protein based snack like a string cheese to keep you full!
  4. Plan ahead always! Life gets crazy sometimes.  It’s important to know what you’re eating ahead of time.  If you don’t, you’ll end up grabbing something you shouldn’t. 

Handful Harry

Thursday, November 5, 2009 by Traci Baker
I have a demon that was a huge part of my life before surgery and I like to call him Handful Harry. Harry was the little gremlin always sitting on my shoulder just waiting for me to grab a handful of something. That something was anything from crackers to Reese’s pieces. Harry sat patiently waiting for me to grab a handful of food and once that happened I was doomed. He would constantly babble on and on over and over “One more handful won’t hurt.”

Over the course of my journey I have worked on taming that animal through therapy and self-help in hopes to never hear his voice again. There are times when I can feel Mr. Harry peaking over my shoulder in anticipation of me grabbing a handful. This is something I personally struggle with and is a constant reminder to me that the operation was performed on my stomach not my head.

This is a perfect example of a time when having a bariatric friend is a saving grace. When those head games start and you go into panic mode make a call, journal what's going on and how you feel, get on your local website forum and call out to your bariatric extended family. Get support in whatever form you need it! Find a local support group and attend as often as you can.

What personal struggles are you facing?  What steps do you need to take today to conquer your demons? I am here to help whenever I can no matter how far you are in your journey, no matter what type of surgery, where you live or what program you are in.

Join us for seminar on Saturday!

Thursday, November 5, 2009 by Andy Pollen
If you have been anxious to learn more about how bariatric weight loss surgery can change your life, then join Clarian Bariatrics' Indianapolis surgeons and staff on Saturday, November 7 for a FREE informational seminar. 

You, and your family and friends, are invited to learn more about the different types of weight loss surgery procedures (Gastric Bypass and Lap Band), learn about the insurance process and ask questions about the health risks caused by obesity.

The seminar is from 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and we cannot wait to meet you! Learn more and RSVP, by clicking here!

Cooking Class is Coming Back!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 by Annessa Chumbley
Cooking class is coming back! I hope you can join us on Tuesday, December 1 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.  There is no cost to attend, but everyone must RSVP.  Please e-mail me at achumble@clariannorth.com or call and leave a message at 317-275-7015 to save your space. 

There WILL be liver-friendly dishes as well as things for those far out of surgery.  We will be holding the class at Clarian Bariatrics' new outpatient clinic. Directions and maps can be found at www.clarian.org/bariatrics.

See you there!

Welcome Home!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by Andy Pollen
I wanted to share a quick write-up and photo that was posted in the Clarian North associate newsletter last week. As a non-Clarian Bariatrics employee, I can attest that the individuals I work with regularly are all top-notch and a complete joy to work with. I am so happy for them and the new location!

On the evening of October 28, more than 60 individuals attended the grand opening of the Clarian Bariatrics outpatient clinic on the northwest side. In late September, Clarian Bariatrics staff moved from their office in building 10 of Intech Park to a 30,000 square foot space in building 11, basically just across the parking lot!

The new space was a necessity as the program has experienced tremendous growth over the past three years and had consistently been running out of room for all their program offerings including cooking classes, support groups and fitness classes.

As Jon Goble, President & CEO of Clarian North, pointed out at the event, the bariatric service line was Clarian North's first service line when the hospital opened on December 1, 2005, and has been a great model of teamwork and dedication to the patient.


Don't Forget Support Group Tonight!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by Sarah Muntel
The holidays are right around the corner!  Holidays are different if you’ve had bariatric surgery or if you’re getting ready for it.  Do you have a plan in place to make sure you have a Healthy and Happy Holiday?  Then come to support group tonight!

Date:  Tuesday, November 3
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Clarian Bariatrics

This group is perfect for all pre and post surgical patients and their support people.  See you later!

The Holiday's are Coming!

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Traci Baker
THE HOLIDAYS ARE COMING!

Let Clarian Bariatrics help you "Plan for a Successful Holiday Season." Join us for support group on Tuesday, November 3 at 6 p.m. as we discuss "Healthy Holiday Eating" at the outpatient clinic.

It is not necessary to RSVP. See you there!

Trick or Treating?

Saturday, October 31, 2009 by Sarah Muntel
 
Are you worried about Halloween tonight?  It may be different while following the Liver Reduction Diet or having Bariatric Surgery.  How do you celebrate Halloween while not giving into the candy temptation? 

First, don’t buy it!  Instead of having bags of candy to hand out to trick or treaters, try something else.  Pencils, erasers, bubbles, play doh and card games are all sold in the Halloween section.  This way, you can participate with out being tempted by candy and sweets.

If you insist on candy, buy something you don’t like to hand out and throw it away immediately when the last trick or treater leaves!

Focus on enjoying the holiday, not the candy and treats!

The Importance of Ongoing Support

Thursday, October 29, 2009 by Andy Pollen
One of the reasons why Clarian Bariatrics patients have such successful outcomes is that we have built a unique and interactive support program that includes cooking classes, fitness classes and support group. There is something for everyone! Learn more about our support programs at www.clarian.org/bariatrics.

After Surgery

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Andy Pollen
Ever wonder what you can expect after bariatric weight loss surgery with Clarian Bariatrics? This video helps answer some of those questions!

Join us for a FREE seminar in Cicero!

Monday, October 26, 2009 by Andy Pollen
Are you looking to gather more information on weight loss surgery? Have you wanted to ask questoins about bariatric surgery costs, types of weight loss surgery (including Lap Band and Gastric Bypass) and the Indiana insurance approval process?

Then consider joining us for a FREE informational weight loss seminar on Thursday October 29 at 6:30 pm in Cicero, Indiana at 1160 South Peru Street, State Road 19. You can register online at ACallToChange.org.

Also, feel free to bring as many of your friends and loved ones along to hear our Indianapolis-based bariatric surgeons discuss the process. See you there!

Is Type 2 in store for you?

Monday, October 26, 2009 by Tina Carmichael
The following is from WebMD the Magazine.

Nearly 800,000 new cases of diabetes are diagnosed in the United States each year.  Yet many people with type 2 diabetes don’t realize they have it.  Do you know if you’re at risk for getting diabetes?  5.7 million Americans have diabetes but don’t know it.

   1. How old are you?
   2. Are you overweight?  Yes   No
   3. Do you have a family member with diabetes?  Yes     No
   4. What is your ethnic background?
   5. Do you exercise at least three times a week?

Answers: #1 Risk goes up with age: type 2 diabetes s more likely for people age 45 and older who are overweight.  However, greater numbers of people younger than 40 – including teens and people in their 20’s are getting the disease because of rising U.S. obesity rates.

#2 Being overweight can hamper your body’s ability to use insulin properly, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.

 #3 Having a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes raises your risk.

#4 Certain ethnic groups have a higher risk.  Native Americans, Alaska Natives, African-Americans, Latinos, Asian-American, and Pacific Islanders are more prone to getting type 2 diabetes.

#5 Being inactive – for example, exercising fewer than three times a week – can increase your chances of developing type 2.  Talk to your doctor about starting or increasing a fitness plan to get more exercise into your life.

Clarian Bariatrics can help.  If you are, overweight with type 2 diabetes and have tried diet control without success call us at 317-275-7010 for more information.