New Beginnings--Finding a Balance in 2012

[Teresa123]

OK--let's see if I can finally get caught up!

Originally Posted by pescacat

Hi-
Sorry I have been MIA-I lost my internet and phone connection and it was gone for awhile then back then gone again and just got it back. Hoping it sticks this time.

Hope you aren't still having internet problems. How are you? How is the new man? Are the body/mind connection still working for ya?

Originally Posted by vli1127

Teresa, up the protein for healing.

Yes mom! Actually I am being really mindful of protein. I eat meat once a day, yogurt at least 2x per day and quinoa at least once a day---plus a good amount of nuts/seeds/beans/grains/dairy/etc. so I'm getting lots of protein and making sure I have a good amount of complete proteins as well! I figured this isn't the time to mess around with the flexitarian thing too much although just eating meat once a day (usually fish but it varies) and I truly feel much better so I know once this healing is done I will be moving to just eating meat when I really want it instead of feeling like I 'have to.'

Originally Posted by alabama sunshine

Hi ,Liz thanks i'll get us the sugar free one.Teresa good to see you posting,hope your recovery is speedy.Laura,Vicki,Fonda and Pescacat hope you all had a good day,Jayice congrats on the 50 pound loss,great job.

How are you doing? Walmart usually carries sf angel food cake and angel food cups (the little individual cakes) at this time of year and I'm pretty sure I saw them there the other day. Pretty tasty and throw on some sweetened berries and whipped cream and you have a very nice easy dessert!

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

Hey ladies,

I'm doing well on low carb! I forgot how WONDERFUL it is to not be constantly hungry. On lower calorie/higher carb diets I feel like my appetite is a big, strong aggressive dog on a leash that i'm trying to walk around a herd of cats. Trying to contain that bad boy is a STRUGGLE. A constant pull and lots of unseemly barking.

Has anyone tried the low carb yogurt from Kroger? I think it is called carb master. I tried banana cream pie. It has 60 calories and 4 carbs. It tasted delish BUT it seemed to throw me out of ketosis?!?! I have a carrot cake flavored one that I might have to feed to my DH


TERESA....Please check in when you can! I hope you're doing well. Thinking of you...

Glad low carb is going well for you! It's funny cause I rarely ever feel hungry anymore---just head hunger at times. It's definitely all a matter of finding what works for your body---which annoyingly changes over time. On low carb I was either nauseous or hungry, I rarely got that truly satisfied feeling although over 50 net carbs (still low carb) it was bareable. It's weird that I'm sure I eat over 200 net carbs a day now and I feel totally satisfied---flies in the face of all the low carb stuff we read and hear but I'm trying to accept that as my reality instead of constantly wondering if I'm doing something wrong or if this is going to lead to gaining all my weight back or whatever.

I am not a big fan of the already sweetened/flavored yogurts. Actually, now that I eat Greek yogurt I've found I'm not really a fan of regular yogurt at all. I do every once in awhile get some Stoneyfield just cause I like the cream on the top and I can occasionally find it in full fat, but otherwise I find plain yogurt not 'substantial' enough....that darn Greek yogurt has spoiled me! Now, yoplait used to make a low carb smoothie that I loved when I first started low carbing. Haven't seen them around for years but they were very convenient and tasty.

I am in love with the butternut/quinoa thing too. Just made it again and this time used your idea of bacon fat and bacon. Plan to have some for lunch so I'll let you know how it is.....I'm sure it will be delish! Please share any other quinoa recipes you come up with. I definitely think my body thrives on the stuff so I'm trying to incorporate it wherever I can.

I've seen the big egg thing, looks very cool! I love food from charcoal grills but I hate the mess----plus they aren't allowed at the complex cause someone set one of the buildings on fire a few years ago with one of those things! My grill I bought last summer died on me this fall. I keep thinking I can figure out how to fix it but so far no luck so I need to have a funeral for this one and break down and get a new one---I love to grill and I miss it!!! The one I bought was pretty cheap although it certainly should have lasted longer than the 4-5 months that I got out of it. This time I'll fork out a bit more money and hopefully get one that will last a few years.

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

TERESA....ok, I'm fueling up my broomstick for a long flight Please check in even if you don't feel up to chatting. Getting worried about you This is the 3rd day I haven't seen you post. That must be a record. Well, except when you went on the low carb cruise

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

Attachment 43871

Part 2 coming soon.

[Teresa123]

Originally Posted by kathy76

Liz~ We have a seasonal spot & leave our camper there year round. Camping season is April 15-Oct 15 and we are there almost every weekend Friday evening thru Sunday afternoon. We usually stay all week the week of July 4th....except this year we will be on Brooke's cruise I feel like we pay a lot of money for the site we should be there as much as possible. We pay whether we are there or not. If anyone else uses it they have to pay the campground to stay in our camper....so we can't really make any money back from it that way.

My mom like the white choc rasp but I haven't tried it yet.

Teresa~ Check in girly...please

I'm with Liz---that doesn't seem quite fair that if someone else uses your spot that they pay the campground and you pay them as well. I totally get the needing to save money and all of that---but you guys soooo love to camp, won't there be a big 'void' if you stop going? Couldn't the kids spend a few weekends with the grandparents (takes care of that issue ) and you and DH could take the bike to the campground (takes care of another issue )? I don't know---I think I'm just getting to the age where life is too short and if you find something that you really enjoy you should find a way to do it!

Originally Posted by Indomitable Amy

Been MIA for a while now. Things have been going on and I haven't posted.

Yesterday, I got the news that I have diabetes. Not from my diet but from a med I take. (abilify)

I'm doing a lot better today than I was yesterday. Yesterday was not a good day. Today, though, is a new day and I'm going to be fine. I'm switching things up. Instead of Atkins, I'm switching to the South Beach diet.

Wish me luck.

well, luckily type 2 is totally treatable through diet so no luck needed---you have full control of this! South Beach is a great plan. My 2cents--just stay away from the processed stuff/fat free products and you'll do great! Hope you'll keep posting with us and let us help/support you in any way you need.

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

Hey everybody

Has anyone tried the sugar free teriyaki from nutrition? Seal Sama Sugar Free Teriyaki Sauce
I adore this stuff! I have used it with salmon, tuna steaks, chicken breasts, turkey cutlets and filet mignon. I've used it as a marinade to grill stuff and also as a sauce when I pan sauté meats. IMO it gives a nice flavor with only 1 carb per serving. Of course we all have different taste buds so YMMV.
It is a bit pricey but it doesn't take much.

I reread something that was posted on LCF and wanted to share:Increased hunger and blood sugar problems AFTER PROTEIN with low fat...a solution
I think it is very interesting. It reminded me to consume some type of vinegar with most of my meals, especially those that are bulky with veggies and to not cut back too much on my fats. The poster seems to be quite knowledgeable and it seemed to make sense.

You know, I never really thought I liked teriyaki however a couple of times over the last several months we have gotten take out from the teriyaki place at the mall and I'll have to say I really like it! I'll have to try to remember to check that out next time I order. Is it normally really high in sugar? If so---opps! cause I didn't even consider that when I ate it. I mean it is a bit sweet but there isn't a ton on it I don't think. Hmmmm....maybe I will go look up the nutritional facts on that.

Yes---low fat in any form makes me feel horrible. And add a bunch of protein to it and I'm totally whacked out. I never understood how those Kimkims (or whatever her name was) people could follow that plan, it was a total recipe for disaster in my opinion.

OK---this is kind of off the topic but not really. So the first step in the campaign against childhood obesity---take them off whole milk and give them 1% or fat free. Seriously?! Everytime I hear that commercial it just makes my blood boil. Let's see, lets take away a good whole food that's filled with the nutrion they need and give them processed crap! How about a campaign to get rid of Doritos and Ding Dongs. I look at how my sister feeds her family. They don't do low fat anything and the kids are all teens/pre-teens now and they still drink whole milk and are thin and healthy. Good metabolism---probably, but that's because they haven't been messed up with lots of processed crap! It's funny because my mom used to worry when I started low carb that I wasn't eating enough because I was losing so quickly. Now she wonders how I stay 'skinny' with all the fat/food that I eat! I'm not skinny by any stretch, but the difference between eating mostly whole foods and eating low fat/processed stuff--junk or not--is what makes the difference. I know that a lot of people think that it's some kind of government conspiracy to keep us dependent on prescriptions and the medical community. I honestly don't---I think we have a lot of uneducated people making decisions and we have gotten ourselves in so deep with processed convenient stuff that we can't find our way out of it. GRRRRRRRRR!!! Can you tell this really pisses me off! OK---trying to get off my soap box now---but the next time I see that commercial I'll be right back on it!

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

Does anyone do pinterest? Oh my! I think I might develop a new addiction!

I'm starting my first bulletin board with quinoa recipes. I got an idea to make quinoa patties thanks to that wonderful recipe posted by Teresa for butternut squash quinoa gratin. It came out as a solid piece (not sure if that is how it is supposed to come out or if I overcooked it). I thought that similar ingredients would be delish made into patties and fried in some olive oil.
I've already found a few recipes for quinoa cakes/patties.

Ok, back to my addictive hunt!

I have been really trying to avoid pinterest...don't tempt me!


Part 3 coming soon.

[Teresa123]

Originally Posted by Jaiyce

Hi everyone,
It's been a LONG week and I am so glad the week is done!

Teresa- hope you are doing very well, are you off next week? I hope you are getting better fast now!

Things are going pretty good for me...up and down, do annoying but I am getting better at accepting that...

Well off to watch a movie with the fan.... Night

Hope you are enjoying your weekend and getting in some relaxation! So is the binge monster still bothering you? How are things going?

I go back to work next week. Was supposed to go back this week but there was no way! I am not looking forward to going back. Besides being so far behind that it will take forever to get caught up---all of the drama has now been announced to our teams and I know things are going to be really shaky for awhile....and we still don't know what will happen next. Lack of stability does not make for a nice work environment.

Originally Posted by kathy76

Teresa~ Glad to see you posting


Walmart has pasta that is Gluten Free called Tinkyada it's made from brown rice. They have a good variety of shapes. I tried it this week and my body seemed to handle it pretty good I really think that I am gluten intolerant & that is why Atkins Induction worked for me & resulted in my 100+ lb loss. Whenever I would raise my carbs I would do so by using the LC wraps or Dreamfields pasta & I would get negative results....probably from the gluten. Today, I can have a potato, brown rice, corn, beans etc....as long as it is GF I have no bloating & it doesn't seem to send my hunger out of control.

Quinoa rules. You definitely need to try it! I also love the quinoa flour and flakes. I mix the flour with other flours as it can have a bit of a 'grassy' taste when used alone and since it's higher protein it can affect the texture of some things but mixed it is delish. I mix the flakes with oats just because I like the texture of oats better---but I think the quinoa is healthier so I go for the best of both worlds! I have a pasta that is made from brown rice and quinoa, very tasty.

You know, I think what you described is the beauty of low carb/Atkins that most people don't discover because they never leave induction (or barely leave it)-- and that is figuring out what is truly right for your body. It takes a lot of experimentation and patience---but it is so worth it when you start to find the magical formula that works for you! I so wish I could explain that to people and convince them to really follow the program---not just induction---I think there would be a much higher success rate! When I look back at my binging and other disordered eating during the last few years I know it's because I didn't continue to take the steps that I needed to---like I went part of the way and then stopped because my head kept telling me I was eating too high carb and it couldn't possibly be OK. I'm really trying to get past that and rely totally on my physical/emotional reactions to food and surprisingly it seems to be working.


OK---think I'm caught up. I'll be back later....I'm pooped after all that writing!

[Teresa123]

Hmmmm, seems to be a pattern here---I post, then no one else does.

Lots of wicked storms moving through. We've survived 2 so far although the winds were terrible (around 70 mph) and electricity went out a couple of times although thankfully not for long. Tornados sited in most of the surrounding counties and lots of flash flooding. The lower end of our parking lot is about 2 feet under water. I'm on the higher end so it would have to rise up another couple feet to get to my car and probably another foot more than that to get to my apt---so I think I'm safe.

Better sign off before I get 'forced' off again!

[healthylowcarbin]

hey everybody

I'm having trouble posting for some reason. I''ve lost 2 posts!

I'll try again tomorrow

TERESA>.....I'm SO happy to see your nice long posts! YAY!
I hope you don't have any problems with the weather

[vli1127]

We are dealing with kid troubles here. Bad things going on in school. Not much else to report. Let's hope that he can at least finish school. This coming from a kid that we never had problems with and now BANG.

[got2getmoving]

Good morning ladies! Still eating on plan. I need to work on getting more water in on my days off and start exercising again!

[Teresa123]

Morning!

Vicki---so do you think DS is struggling with all the 'newness' of things---new step dad, step siblings, moving, etc. A lot of times kids don't talk about that stuff---they just eventually act out on it. Whatever it is he will hopefully snap out of it soon. What year is he in school?

Did you guys get hit with any of the storms? Looked like they stayed south of you but for awhile there they were everywhere so I couldn't really keep track of who was getting hit. I read that 5 were killed in the storms but I need to go read the article and see if any of them were here or not---regardless, very sad.

Liz---so I ate my quinoa/butternut stuff yesterday and this time it came out totally different---more like yours---kind of 'caked' together. I have no clue why?? I used bacon grease instead of olive oil and I added bacon but I really can't imagine that did it? It was still very good but I liked it much better when it was....hmmmm, not sure of the word but basically 'creamier.' I'm thinking when I warm it up I might add a little milk or cream and mix it up and see what that does for it. Next time I make it I'm going to swap out the butternut for brocolli, go back to o.o. instead of bacon fat and top with bacon.


I can't believe I have to go back to work tomorrow....uggggg! 2 weeks and 3 days of vacation gone and although I know it was meant for healing time I really thought I would get a little more done and have a bit more fun/relaxation on my time off----stupid infection! Luckily I got another week of vacation this year (for 10 years) so I still have 3 weeks left but I hate that a week of time was spent soley on feeling miserable and dealing with pain. Oh well, it's over now and hopefully the results will make it all worth while.

Going to go try on some clothes to see if I have anything that will fit that I can wear this week. I am so swollen, plus adding the layers of foam and binder and I'm not sure....I might have to go to work nekkie! Either that or I'll have to make an emergency run to the mall and grab a few things to get me through....hopefully not though. Wish me luck!

[Teresa123]

Morning Fonda---go grab that water bottle and start chugging!!! Maybe we need to have a water challenge or something because I still am struggling with the water thing as well.....which is soooo weird because I used to drink it non-stop.

Have a good day.

[healthylowcarbin]

Hey everybody!

I just got finished cooking lunch with DH. We did a lebanese lunch. Taboule, kafta kabobs and grilled marinaded chicken. YUM! The kafta is ground beef with pureed onion (squeeze water out) chopped parsley, all spice, cinnamon and a bit of salt/pepper. Great flavor. I think the pureed onion really gives a nice taste and also adds moisture.


Next weekend we will grill beef kabobs. We marinade beef chunks in PEANUT BUTTER and then grill...delish! Has anyone tried that?

TERESA....a water challenge sounds good. I've really slacked on the water. In fact, I've fallen back into the diet soda habit. BAD Liz. hahaha. I tell DH that I saving on embalming costs for when I die because the aspartame turns into formaldehyde. How healthy.

I'm glad you did ok with the weather but it is so sad that anyone lost their lives.

Interesting about the texture of the quinoa gratin. Maybe the butternut squash have different levels of moisture. I think that adding cream would be great if you want a creamier texture.
I bet the broc. would be delish. Or maybe zucchini.

Teriyaki, from what I've read, is full of sugar. I think each tbsp has 3-4 carbs all from sugar.

ITA with you ----->

So the first step in the campaign against childhood obesity---take them off whole milk and give them 1% or fat free. Seriously?!

GOOD LUCK on the clothes! I hope you find something comfy to wear

FONDA....WTG for staying on plan! KUTGW

VICKI...sorry to hear about the kid problems. How old is he?

[Teresa123]

Oh yay---some water challenge takers! OK---so what should be the challenge? Should we set a minimum that everyone needs to meet and report on? Or everyone pick their own goal and then report if they made it? I think we should have points and the whole bit---can you tell I'm a bit competitive?!

Fonda---your calories aren't bad at all, even if you have another 700-1000 before the day is over I suspect you would be just fine. I have no idea what your carb tolerance is but you probably aren't sitting too bad in that area either but if you are trying to stick with 20 or less a day than writing everything down is probably a good idea. Truly, after you do it for a bit it just becomes automatic, or it has for me. I don't have to think about how many cals or carbs or whatever---my head just automatically computes it. I plan my day as far as meals go the day before and without writing anything down or using any programs I just automatically know now how to make it all balance out. Anyway---I suspect if you do it for awhile it will become much more automatic and take much less work.

Liz---beef chunks in peanut butter!?! Wow, that sounds like my kind of meal!! Definitely let me know how that turns out and of course if it's good I will need the recipe please!

I have some allspice (freeby from Penzeys) but have never used it---I can't quite figure out what to do with it. Somehow those spices mixed together don't make sense to me as far as what it would be good on. I'm not big on onion (although I love onion powder---weird I know)...do you have other recipes or things that you use the allspice on/in?

Yeppers on the teriyaki. Looked it up the other day and it's all sugar and sodium. Oh well, I guess that will only be an occasional indulgence for me!



Well, the trying on of clothes was quite a bummer---looks like I'll be going naked! Actually if I go without the foam I can fit into several things, albiet snuggly, so I'll be ditching the foams during the day. What I have to say is---my hips are HUGE!! I know that it is mostly swelling but omgooooodness I couldn't believe how big they are. And it's not just in comparison to the newly smaller torso, I mean it was very apparent in pants that they are much larger. I always thought it would be kind of cool to have hips or at least some kind of curves but I think I would prefer to go back to my boyish hips, thank you very much!

I finally got around to making caramel today. Sadly, it turned out more like toffee. I did eat a big chunk of it though when it was warm and still caramelly and it was YUM!! I'm pretty sure I figured out what I did wrong so I'll be trying it again when I get more time. I was really intimidated to make them---something about boiling sugar is a bit scary to me ---but I think once I get the hang of it it will really be quite easy. Hmmmm, that could be dangerous!


Work tomorrow....blah. Hopefully it won't be a long day. Hate that I don't have my calendar or anything here so I have no idea what the day looks like. Guess I'll just have to suck it up and deal with whatever it is. And tomorrow night---I have to do my taxes! Yes, once again I have procrastinated. I know I will owe a lot, as always, so I try to put it off as long as I can.

[Indomitable Amy]

Hey everyone! Thanks for all of the support. I'm slowly getting to the point where this all feels real. Diabetes is not what I envisioned for myself.

Liz, I saw the recipe for the bean cake and brownies. Can't wait to try it.

[Jaiyce]

Hi Ladies,

I am in for a water challenge too! How much water should we be drinking? I am at about 75 oz or so, I would like to incorporate another 25. But is that too much? Too little?

Teresa- Good luck on your first day back, I hope it goes fast for you and you are home resting in a blink! I hope the swelling goes down soon! It must be the hardest part about surgery, waiting to see the results! I mean the would care part was pretty awful of course, how is that now? Is that all over since the last surgery?

Amy- I hope your doing on, When Is your appt again?

Fonda- good luck on your new plan, how did the rest of the day go for you?

Liz- how did your dinner go? I would love to try that recipe, please share! I am a huge PB lover, not quite at Teresa's level but a close second I think!

So things are going well, not much to report in the weight loss side but I am plugging away. It seems to be pretty slow for me, so I am trying to accept it. I enjoyed movie popcorn yesterday, and I am ok with it. Right back on track today. I did have a half a cup of DH chili, man it was good... I do miss beans..,I need to get them back in! Got to go shopping yesterday and discovered I fit regular store clothes! I was thrilled ...and Its not even the largest size! Funny though as I also felt abut of anxiety about that... Am i nuts? I think maybe. Well I pray you all have a great day tomorrow!

[got2getmoving]

well I had a binge blowout last night after the game. I was cranky for some reason after work when I went to the bb game, and it continued until I went to bed. I ate several bananas, hamburger w/cheese sauce, and then an icecream bar I wasn't even hungry!!!! I am looking back now trying to figure out why I was so irritated, and still have not really pinpointed it. Well today is a new day. Started off the day with a diet dr pepper and two turkey sausage patties.

[Teresa123]

Good morning! Oh wait, it's Monday so maybe not so good!

I have only been at work for about 3 hours and I can already feel the swelling! I forgot that it's probably more than a 1/4 mile walk from my car to the building---normally no biggie but I haven't walked that much at a time in almost 3 weeks! Also just to go get a cup of tea or take my lunch to the fridge or whatever is a lonnnnng way aways! Not really but compared to my small apt where everything is just a matter of feet away I suddenly realize how huge this campus is and how much walking I normally do in a day. I'm guessing a few days of this and it will feel feel normal again and the swelling will settle down.

I 'officially' weighed in (meaning first thing in the morning without all the garb on) for the first time in almost 3 weeks today. Outcome---163.4. Usually at this point I am back down to pre-surgery weight and just bouncing around 2-3 lbs for a few more weeks due to swelling. So---not sure if that means I have really gained weight OR since I had a second surgery just 1 week ago today that technically I need to use that as my baseline instead of the original surgery. Normally I would be able to tell if I gained 5-6 lbs of actual fat but 1) my body looks totally different now and 2) with all the swelling---who knows what is what?! I guess I'll just make sure to do 'real' weigh in's daily and hopefully in another week or so I'll be back down. If not---then I'll actually have to do something about it. God forbid I eat less!


Amy---yes, I'm sure the diabetes dx was very shocking. But the cool thing is---you can totally 'erase' it! Not a lot of other serious diseases that we know how to do that with without medical intervention---but this one we can! Although I was never technically dx'd with diabetes I definitely was a type 2 with all the symptoms. By the time I was tested for it I had been low carbing for 6 months and my A1C was 5.0 and no signs of it what so ever, however after honest discussions with my Dr at that point and the PCOS that was discovered we were both pretty clear that I was pretty far into that disease prior to low carb. Anyway---I know it has to be scary and a shocker for you---but once you work your way through to the acceptance part of it I hope you get a sense of empowerment knowing that you fully control your destiny in regards to this disease and you can totally conquer it!!


Jaime--the wound care part now is really simple....well, it takes a bit of time but nothing scary like it was when I had the huge open wound! That part was over with the second surgery---thank God!!

No, you're not crazy at all feeling anxiety about being in smaller sizes, not shopping in the women's section, etc. Well, let me re-phrase that---you might be crazy but if so than I am too as I had a lot of difficulties with that for quite a long time. Beyond that, as much as I hated the limited choices of the women's section---especially when I was lucky to squeeze into the largest sizes they had---it was weird to have all of these choices all of the sudden and kind of intimidating (although very fun too!). There were times that I looked at the women's section kind of longingly, as weird as that sounds. Very few choices, things were cut big so I could hide my body, etc.....basically that was my comfort zone. I didn't feel like that most of the time, but I did sometimes. Anyway, crazy or not, I can relate. There are so many things like that along this journey---another reason why I always think/say that the mental part of this is soooooo much harder than 'just' losing weight. We 'lose' a lot of other things too....granted, we gain tons more but constantly being thrown out of our comfort zone is hard!


OK---back to the 1800+ e-mails that I got while gone. I'm down 400 already so if I can clear a few more hundred I would be happy however I have 5 hours of meetings yet to do today so not sure it's gonna happen.


Ugggg, just went to the bathroom and my incision is leaking. This is the one that opened up earlier....and it has body glue on it now so I don't think it should be doing this. Luckily the fluid coming out looks fine, not like before but regardless guess I need to call the Dr and see what I need to do.

[Teresa123]

Fonda--- yep, just jump back in. Sometimes it's not clear right away what the binges and stuff are about--but over time I think we start to gain some understanding as long as we keep searching for the answers. Some people don't think it's important to understand---and they may be right. For me it was/is kind of critical as this stuff doesn't go away when the weight is gone....and for me understanding at least a bit about why it's happening helps me to avoid and or work through some of those things. Maintenance is hard work---throw in some out of control eating and there were days I was more miserable being 'thin' and binging than I was when I was morbidly obese.


Oh yeah---and for the water challenge---how about 100 oz a day?? What does everyone think?

[got2getmoving]

Originally Posted by Teresa123

Fonda--- yep, just jump back in. Sometimes it's not clear right away what the binges and stuff are about--but over time I think we start to gain some understanding as long as we keep searching for the answers. Some people don't think it's important to understand---and they may be right. For me it was/is kind of critical as this stuff doesn't go away when the weight is gone....and for me understanding at least a bit about why it's happening helps me to avoid and or work through some of those things. Maintenance is hard work---throw in some out of control eating and there were days I was more miserable being 'thin' and binging than I was when I was morbidly obese.


Oh yeah---and for the water challenge---how about 100 oz a day?? What does everyone think?

thanks Teresa! 100oz is very doable, just have to work on it on my days off. Hope everything is ok with your incision. It sounds like you are doing lots of walking- maybe too much too soon?

[healthylowcarbin]

Hey everybody

Re. the PB marinade....DH's family does a simple marinade of smooth PB mixed with a bit of oil to thin it out. They then marinade chunks of beef for 6-24 hours, skewer them then grill. Very tasty

I'm considering trying a bit more elaborate marinades with PB that I think would intensity the flavor (such as the one below) . Of course I will tweak it. I would definitely add a bit of oil (probably peanut oil)
I'll let ya'll know when I actually do the grillin'

1 cup SMUCKER'S® Natural Peanut Butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup lemon juice
6 cloves garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons ginger, finely chopped
2 1/2 pounds chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1 1/2-inch strips.
Directions

Prepare marinade 2 hours before ready to grill.
Mix the ingredients, except the chicken in a blender until combined. If too thick, add up to a cup of water to thin.
Marinate the chicken for approximately 2 hours.
Lightly oil the medium/hot BBQ grill.
Place chicken on the grill for 6-8 minutes.

[healthylowcarbin]

TERESA..... I hope your swelling goes down and you don't have any pain.

Re. the allspice....

I have some allspice (freeby from Penzeys) but have never used it---I can't quite figure out what to do with it. Somehow those spices mixed together don't make sense to me as far as what it would be good on.

The allspice I'm referring to is one spice, not a mix of spices.
It is a dried berry of the pimento.
Are you sure it is allspice you have from penzeys? Or is it a mix of spices?
If a mix, what is in it?

Maintenance is hard work---throw in some out of control eating and there were days I was more miserable being 'thin' and binging than I was when I was morbidly obese.

:good post: ITA

Oh yeah---and for the water challenge---how about 100 oz a day?? What does everyone think?

sounds good to me. I know that when I drink more water I graze a LOT less. Sometimes I think my "thirst" sensor is burned out and my "hunger" sensor comes on when I am thirsty.

Please keep us posted on what your doctor says re. the incision.
Are you still taking your temp?

[healthylowcarbin]

JAIME....

Liz- how did your dinner go?

It was DELISH! Except for the taboule. I've never really liked it but DH can eat it by the bucket.

So things are going well, not much to report in the weight loss side but I am plugging away. It seems to be pretty slow for me, so I am trying to accept it. I enjoyed movie popcorn yesterday, and I am ok with it. Right back on track today. I did have a half a cup of DH chili, man it was good... I do miss beans..,I need to get them back in!

I'm not sure if you do soy? But if so, have you tried black soy beans (canned) in chilli? I think they taste good but unfortunately I can't do soy (awful headaches). They are much lower carb

Got to go shopping yesterday and discovered I fit regular store clothes! I was thrilled ...and Its not even the largest size!

YIIIIPPPPEEEEEE!!! BRAVO! I'm very excited for you to fit in regular clothes! WTG!!!!



FONDA.... I hope you're having a good day.
I hate when I eat and I'm not even hungry. Very frustrating. I know that when I'm cranky I am far more likely to binge/overeat/graze to try to soothe myself. I find that taking a nice long bubble bath will sometimes help.
WTG for getting back on track. You can do it!

[vli1127]

Ok, have you heard of the latest diet craze for women trying to lose weight for the wedding? The K-E diet. They have a feeding tube inserted down their nose and for 10 days they ingest a slow drip of 800 calorie high protein, low carb formula. They lose up to 20 lbs in 10 days to the tune of $1499.

[got2getmoving]

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

JAIME....
FONDA.... I hope you're having a good day.
I hate when I eat and I'm not even hungry. Very frustrating. I know that when I'm cranky I am far more likely to binge/overeat/graze to try to soothe myself. I find that taking a nice long bubble bath will sometimes help.
WTG for getting back on track. You can do it!

thanks Liz!! Today is going better. I am about 31 carbs for the day so far. Hoping my iron is up so I can donate plasma tonight.

Originally Posted by vli1127

Ok, have you heard of the latest diet craze for women trying to lose weight for the wedding? The K-E diet. They have a feeding tube inserted down their nose and for 10 days they ingest a slow drip of 800 calorie high protein, low carb formula. They lose up to 20 lbs in 10 days to the tune of $1499.

i read that earlier - pretty nasty! If they only knew they could get close to the same effects eating the protein and soooo much cheaper!!

[healthylowcarbin]

Originally Posted by vli1127

Ok, have you heard of the latest diet craze for women trying to lose weight for the wedding? The K-E diet. They have a feeding tube inserted down their nose and for 10 days they ingest a slow drip of 800 calorie high protein, low carb formula. They lose up to 20 lbs in 10 days to the tune of $1499.

I've inserted a few NG tubes in my day and it is NOT a pleasant experience (for me or for the patient)
I can't imagine anyone willingly going around with that thing
To have a continuous drip ...bleck

I could offer them a better deal. I'll come tape their mouths shut with masking tape and put a small hole thru which they can insert a straw. I will provide atkins shakes....800 calories worth per day. I will only charge $499. I'll call it the M-T diet (for masking tape)
Any takers??????

[alabama sunshine]

Hi,glad to see you back on top of things Teresa.Hello everyone,hope you all are okay.I have been having stomach problems for the last two weeks,so I have been trying to get it in order.Everything I eat irrtates my tummy,even when I take my meds.Hopefully this pink med will get it under control,but docs appt is weds.

[Teresa123]

Wow, long day and unfortunately, I am wide awake! This is usually bed time for me...gonna have to figure out a way to get sleepy quick!

Winifred---I'm sorry about the stomach problems but glad you are going to the Dr this week! Hopefully he/she can get you all fixed up.

Vicki---I have never heard of such a thing---how crazy! It doesn't even compute--there is no way you could lose that amount in that short of a time with those cals---although I suppose if you have a lot of water weight maybe....but seriously, I think I would just do a water fast or something if I was that desperate. And heck, for that price you might be able to get some lipo done or something.

Liz---OK, I don't know why I was thinking Allspice...although I have that too and have never used it because I had no idea what it tastes like. It's actually the Chinese 5 spice that I was thinking of and I'm not sure what to do with....any ideas on that one?

Please sign me up for the MT Diet! Actually, I think I will undercut you and sell the DT Diet (duct tape) for only 498.00!

Thanks for the pb/meat info and recipe---I will definitely be trying out some version of that once I get a new grill! I love thai peanut curry sauce...thinking maybe I could marinate with something like that.

You know, I haven't taken my temp for awhile now. The last few times I took it last week it was back to it's abnormal low of 97ish. But maybe I should keep monitoring that. I'm on a pretty powerful antibiotic still so hopefully that is keeping it all in check.


Fonda, Jaime, Liz and anyone else that wants in on the water challenge---so let's start tomorrow. 100 oz a day. 1 point for each day you successfully complete this. Not sure what we'll do with the points but I'm sure we can come up with something! THEN...starting in May, maybe we can 'up the ante' so to speak and add 20 oz of water in addition to the 100 for every soda/pop that we drink! I know since surgery I have been drinking one or two every day and I need to cut it out! Typically I drink Zevia but I've even been dabbling with the Coke Zero again which I know is really bad for me. Anyway, just a thought to spice things up and maybe break some bad habits but we can always figure that out later.


Went to see the Dr after work tonight. He wanted to make sure that I didn't have fluid accumulating---which concerned me a bit cause that means he would be putting a big nasty needle in me and draining it! But luckily that wasn't the case and although he wants to watch it closely it appears to be OK. He does want me to stop wearing the binder as he thinks that is creating too much pressure on the incision and just wear a garment with light compression. Since I have a couple of 'shapers' that will work perfectly and should make it easier to find clothes that will fit and not look weird---pants over a binder is not really an easy look to pull off!

Taxes are still not done but I have everything gathered and plan to do them during lunch tomorrow. Yes, I am a huge procrastinator when it comes to this (and many other things!). I did however do experiment #2 with homemade caramels and although I'm not sure if they are perfect---might be a bit too soft---they are divine and got 2 thumbs up from my neighbor.

OK---off to figure out a way to wind down and get some zzzzzzzz's.

[Jaiyce]

Hi Ladies,

Liz- oh my goodness the MT diet! Its so funny you mentioned that diet, as I was on the treadmill at the gym this morning and watched it on good morning America! I burst out in laughter (which is kinds mean....oops) but seriously! I had to insert NG tubes into my daughter and it was horrible, I can't imagine someone walking around like that for several thousand dollars! Then again I guess we can all feel pretty desperate at times, but this report sounded like it was more aimed for last minute things lie fitting into a dress.

Teresa- the DT diet! Lol! To funny....thanks for saying I am not crazy...it's so weird to think, I am comfortable in the stores I know, I can't imagine what life will be like once I drop another 50. Glad to hear you are doing ok, but concerned about you! I hope that incision closes already! Is there anyway you can park a little closer? That seems really far!

Fonda- sorry you had a rough night. I am a binge eater as well, it's been a while but when it happens half the time you don't even know what you have consumed before its to late, right! You have best attitude, it's a new day ...and today is your day! I wish you a great day!

Liz- thanks for the idea of the soy beans, I am try that. I think I am ok with Soy but. Don't ea to much of it. May as well try it right? Thanks for your PB recipe, it looks soooooooo good, any idea the carb count?.

Winifred- hope your tummy problems get better!

Well I am in for the water challenge at 100 oz, sounds good! Today was a super busy day so I am off to sleep, I hope you all have a great day tomorrow

[healthylowcarbin]

Good morning!

I'm starting early on my water. I have a huge mug thing with measurements on the side. I've filled it up and am keeping it with me all day to sip, sip, sip.

TERESA.... re. the chinese 5 spice.... I do use it on occasion when I'm feeling the urge for a bit of asian flavor. I will mix it with a bit of reduced sodium soy sauce, rice wine vinegar (the unseasoned SUGAR FREE one...the regular is full of sugar) and sesame seed oil to make a sauce to sauté meat/veggies. You can add a sprinkle of sweetener also to the veggies if not using the "seasoned" rice wine vinegar to replace the sweetness.

I'm sorry that i don't have an exact recipe. I have my international "flavor profiles" that I have in mind that I use when I'm feeling like some ethnic grub. For indian I would use curry powder, yogurt, ginger, garlic, etc.
For mexican I would use cumin, chill powder, lime juice, etc
For thai I would use coconut milk, ginger, curry paste, etc.....
Greek I use lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, etc.
I just kinda throw stuff together to taste
I think I'm gonna start working on ethnic cuisine recipes by creating boards in interest

I like chinese 5 spice, but I can see where other people may not. I suggest trying it in a small amount first with a bit of stir fry veggies to see if you like the flavor. It can really wake up and add a different flavor to veggies. I like to use it with broccoli, a small amt of soy sauce, sesame seed oil and either sesame seeds or slivered almonds.

Here is something I found online:

Chinese five spices, a unique combination of spices hits the five taste sensations at one time: salty, sour, sweet, pungent and bitter. Spices used in this blend traditionally include star anise, fennel, ground cassia, Szechwan peppercorns and cloves. Many times though, different types of pepper, ground ginger, cinnamon and licorice root appear in various recipes. Chinese five spices is not a hot spice, but it does have a warming effect when introduced to the palate.

1.Use Chinese five spices sparingly. This blend of flavors can overwhelm a dish if seasoned with too heavy a hand. Start with a small amount, such as 1/2 tsp. for a single serving, and give the dish at least a few minutes to absorb the flavors before adding more.
2. Sauté with vegetables and meats for stir-fries. After heating up minced ginger and garlic in the wok or skillet, add 2 tsp. of five spices as you add the vegetables this will bring flavor to the rest of the dish.
3. Whisk 1 tsp. of the spice blend into pork, chicken or turkey drippings before making sauce or gravy. This Asian-themed sauce goes well over thinly sliced pork or beef or tossed with sesame seeds, steamed green beans or broccoli.
4 Combine with salt to create a rub for chicken, pork or duck. Blend 2 tsp. of Chinese five spices with 3 tsp. of salt and rub onto the surface of the meat about one hour before roasting or grilling.

[healthylowcarbin]

JAIME...I'm sorry but I don't have a carb count on the PB marinade. I think it might be hard to get an accurate count because a lot of the marinade is not absorbed. The recipe I posted looked the lowest carb. Most of the others that I found called for a good deal of honey.

TERESA.... I hope you were able to get some sleep.
Ok, quit stealing my BRILLIANT idea on the MT diet!

I'm glad you got good news from the doctor....yay for losing the restrictive binder thing!

WINIFRED.....sending you lots of good thoughts, prayers and hugs that you get some relief from your tummy problems

[Indomitable Amy]

Jaiyce My appt is the 26th

Teresa Right now, I'm treating it like alcoholism. One day at a time. I hope i reach the point where I make diabetes my b***h but right now, i'm just trying to eat right and stay away from the bad stuff. I do have a question about SB. Should I eat regular fat or should I go the way the sb doc prescribes and go to low fat.

[got2getmoving]

Originally Posted by healthylowcarbin

:I could offer them a better deal. I'll come tape their mouths shut with masking tape and put a small hole thru which they can insert a straw. I will provide atkins shakes....800 calories worth per day. I will only charge $499. I'll call it the M-T diet (for masking tape)
Any takers??????

so much cheaper! I cannot believe the extreme that some people will go to, or the cost some charge for it!!!

Originally Posted by alabama sunshine

Hi,glad to see you back on top of things Teresa.Hello everyone,hope you all are okay.I have been having stomach problems for the last two weeks,so I have been trying to get it in order.Everything I eat irrtates my tummy,even when I take my meds.Hopefully this pink med will get it under control,but docs appt is weds.

I hope your tummy issues get situated soon. My kids have been complaining of tummy aches the last two days, and my daughter had two "accidents" at school yesterday (poor little girl!). I couldn't imagine haveing tummy problems for two weeks!

Originally Posted by Jaiyce

Hi Ladies,

Fonda- sorry you had a rough night. I am a binge eater as well, it's been a while but when it happens half the time you don't even know what you have consumed before its to late, right! You have best attitude, it's a new day ...and today is your day! I wish you a great day!

:

I don't know so much as a best attitude - but I am so tired of being this heavy! but I am even more tired of failing!!

teresa: I like your idea as well - and you sneaky one undercutting the MT diet!!! I am glad the doctor didn't have to stick a needle in you. I hope you are feeling better today and not having any leakage!


Well I left work 30 minutes early last night to donate plasma, I was in a fine mood, after donating I get a call from my husband telling me that he is at the doctors. He has had a head/chest cold for 4 or 5 days, and it wasn't getting better so he thought he needed to go in. That information got me in another bad mood - because I left work to donate to make $20, and he spends $30 on a copay then he wonders why we can't ever get a head!!!! He ended up having "a touch" of brochitis and the dr prescribed him some medication. I think the dr might have done it just to shut him up Probably not, but it just angers me that everytime he doesn't feel good, he goes to the dr - I haven't been to a regular dr for 1 1/2 years!! I had an appt scheduled for tomorrow but canceled it due to him going yesterday and my son having went twice earlier this month (mono and a check up) - so $90 in one month for co-pays already paid, I could not justify another $30.

I really need to figure out why I have been so cranky the past few days - I am driving myself crazy (one of the things I was going to talk to my dr about what some anti-depressants!) My eating is going good today. I did 30 day Shred the last two days, but have not done it today because my legs are sore, and we have been somewhat busy at work.