We had such a good time in our “NIA” Class tonight!   Our guest was Colleen Renner and she came in to teach us the technique/form of Nia.    This class reminded me of a combination of Aerobics and Interpretive Dance. It was fun! We had a few laughs about our ability to bend and twist and follow directions.   REMEMBER….. We have chosen to attend a 5K on April 9^th in Colorado Springs. So if and when any of you are training for this….walking/hiking/running and need someone to train with you – CALL ME!! Or email me and I will send out an email to everyone as to your whereabouts!   We missed you at class! (Group)   Our next meeting is March 9^th (Wednesday) and will be a sit-down and chat meeting.   Yvonne S. OH Certified Support Group Leader/Coach

During our last meeting we discussed how we are going to restructure our group.  We will be having a “sit-down & chat” meeting the 2^nd Wednesday of the month and our 4^th Wednesday of the month will be some kind of “activity”.  (Yoga, hiking, aerobics, walking, running, etc….).   At the last meeting we discussed an application called “Couch to 5K”. http://www.couchto-5k.com/5k.html?gclid=CMzj4KDe_KYCFQYnbAodRUkLEA     "Discover How You Too Can Go From 'Tired' Couch Potato To ‘Full Of Energy’ 5k Runner In Just 6 Weeks From Now"   And with that discussion we decided as a group to participate in a 5K walk/run in APRIL.  This is NOT Mandatory.  However, it would be nice to have the whole group participate in the training for it and/or participating in a 5K as the “Littleton Support Group”.   As a follow up to our last meeting a 5K was chosen:   Tortoise & Hare Saturday, April 9, 2011 9:00 am Registration: 8:00 am (Same day of the race) Cost: $3.00/non members  Free for PPRR Members South Monument Valley Park (near Bijou Street) Colorado Springs, CO   This race is a true handicap event in that it measures your fitness level based on your age, sex, height and weight.  For more information: http://www.pprrun.org/ and then click on Tortoise & Hare Handicap on the left column.   Any time of the day/night that you are going to do any walking/hiking/running and would like a partner to go with you please feel free to contact me and I will send out an email with the info you provide me so that others in our group know where to meet up with you.   I would like to have you respond to this email so I know whether or not it’s alright to share your email addresses.  I am also on Facebook (Yvonne Reed-Stanley) or I am on Obesity Help http://www.obesityhelp.com/group/von4hare_group/     !!!IMPORTANT!!! Our next meeting is Wednesday 2/23/11.  We will be having an “Active” meeting.  For those of you that didn’t attend the last two meetings – you will just have to wait and see what activity has been chosen.  Please wear comfortable clothing…something you would wear if you went to work-out.  MAKE SURE YOU’VE SEEN YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY – .  This is going to be a fun class!     We also discussed the “Gym Boss” http://www.gymboss.com/  It assists you when you’re working intervals.   I hope this encourages you to attend the group more often.  I know we are busy in our lives – but taking time to spend an hour with friends could help them and you for a life-time!   Yvonne

I have just passed my 3 year anniverysary.  I am still holding onto the last 50 lbs.  I have been holding onto it for the last year and a half.

I have been a support group leader for Littleton Support Group since March of 2008. 

I have been strugling with a lot of issues this year but I don't think it's caused me to eat any different.  What is HAS done is made me more aware of how I'm feeling physically.  So I am on a new mission....

Right now I am at 226.  I originally started at 309.  I am Type II Diabetic, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid issues, and I have PCOS.  So far in my loss of 83 lbs - I had been taken off of the Glucophage for Type II, taken off Diovan HT, kept at the same Thyroid Medication.  After 3 months I had to have my Gallbladder taken out but didn't notice anything different about what I couldnt eat afterwards.

After about 6 months I was put back on Lisinopril for the High Blood Pressure, I was put back on Glucophage for the Type II diabetes AND my Thyroid has gone from 1 pill to 1 1/2 pills.  I am also severely Enemic and being sent to a Hematologist.  I was Vitamin D deficient for a while and was told to stop taking the B12 everyday because I had too much B12. 

Recently I had an Angiogram due to family history and have been told that my heart is GREAT! 

So now I need to get off my lazy ass and start moving.  I am not the epitomy of a great RNY patient as I have done this 83lb loss with only walking occasionally. 

I feel as if I am now back to my 309 lb self.... How?  I am totally discusted with the way I feel physically.  I am back to feeling out of breath every time I walk a flight of stairs.  I'm still wearing a size 20.  And I can't get below 221.  (Not to mention trying to get below 200!!!)

What motivates a person?  My kids should be all the motivation in the world but I don't feel it.  My husband should be....still don't feel it.

I am doing some soul searching right now.  I have gone out walking 3 times in the last week and it feels good to do so - but it's not enough to get this metabolism to wake up again.  I just can't find what's going to "get me going"....  I think I'm a bit depressed - not majorly but I've been through a lot this year - and I cant see why I wouldn't be....

If I wake up tomorrow with the "thing" that's going to get me going - I will be sure to share with you.  Until then....

LITTLETON SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MINUTES FROM 3/12/09   THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!! This was our most successful meeting in terms of attendance! We had 20 members in attendance!! And we had a guest: Amanda Tyacke from Dr. Michael Snyder’s office.   The break-down is as follows: 12 RNY, 5 LAPBANDS – 1 Boyfriend and 2 Husbands!  Surgeons: Dr Snyder, Dr. Tillquist and Dr. Chae. I want to make sure that the husbands and boyfriends know they’re just as important to the success of our group as the regular members!! THANK YOU FOR COMING.   One of the greatest accomplishments of the meeting:   TOTAL WEIGHT LOSS COMBINED 1886 LBS!!!   At the end of our last meeting a conversation was started regarding Self Image. An article from The Mayo Clinic was passed out and read. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/self-esteem/MH00129    Step 1: Identifying troubling conditions or situations Step 2: Become aware of beliefs and thoughts Step 3: Pinpoint negative or inaccurate thinking Step 4: Challenging negative or inaccurate thinking Step 5: Change your thoughts and beliefs   We all shared positive accomplishments; Wearing a bathing suit, being able to walk, riding a scooter, squatting down without falling over, fitting in an airplane seat, shopping in a “regular” store (not a plus size), requests for your phone number in a bar, being able to run on the treadmill, keeping up with kids, playing with grand children, wearing the same size clothing as their kids, wearing smaller clothes in the back of your closet, being able to tie your shoes when the bow ends up on TOP of your shoe instead of the inside of your shoe, crossing your legs, not taking as many medications…. Etc.   Part of adapting a positive self image and/or self esteem are to incorporate “daily affirmations” into our routine.       Best said by: Stuart Smalley from Saturday Night Live: I deserve good things. I am entitled to my share of happiness. I refuse to beat myself up. I am an attractive person. I am fun to be with.  Because I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and, doggonit, people like me!   How and Why to Use Positive Affirmations as a Stress Management Tool http://www.ask.com/bar?q=self+talk&page=1&qsrc=2417&ab=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fstress.about.com%2Fod%2Foptimismspirituality%2Fa%2Fselftalk.htm   Affirmations One way to reprogram your self-talk is by repeating positive affirmations until you begin to get a good sense of what positive thinking really sounds like. After all, much self-talk is actually negative affirmations. Our emotions, perceptions, and behaviors are shaped by our most dominant thoughts. Advocates of affirmations theorize that our frequent thoughts represent goals which the subconscious mind strives to actualize. What we most often tell ourselves can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you want to explore the power of positive affirmations, follow these guidelines.

1. Personalize your affirmations with with words like "I," "me," and "my." You can't always control circumstances or other people, so make your affirmations about what you can control---yourself. Make your affirmations state your own goals, wants, and values---not someone else's.
2. Some authors say affirmations are best stated in the present tense, because, if affirmations are in future tense ("I will...") your subconscious mind feels no urgency to act NOW. If you feel hypocritical stating affirmations in the present tense (as in "I am slender and healthy") then state your affirmations as a process (as in "Each day I am become more slender and healthier.")
3. Make your affirmations believable and realistic so that you can say them with sincerity. Begin with small, easily achievable goals, and work your way up to bigger accomplishments. "My self control is perfect." is probably more believable as "I have self-control most of the time."
4. State affirmations in the positive. To say "I don't eat fatty foods," only focuses your attention on the behavior you want to avoid. Instead say "I eat nutritious foods."
5. Make affirmations short and easy to remember. Catchy slogans stay with us longer than essays.
6. Repeat your positive affirmations often and positive thinking will become routine.

To maintain positive self-talk, fill your mind with uplifting ideas. Recognize your strengths. Comfort yourself when things go wrong. Let your self-talk be like the soothing, supportive words of a counselor, friend, or mentor. As you improve your self-talk, commit to changing your actions accordingly. Lasting accomplishments come when we change our behaviors as well as our thinking. http://www.ask.com/bar?q=self+talk&page=1&qsrc=2417&ab=5&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthyhabits.com%2FSelfTalk.asp   Dr Snyder has hired a new surgeon for his office: Stacie Perlman http://video.kxrm.com/Global/story.asp?S=9458498 http://www.rosesportsmedicine.com/CustomPage.asp?guidCustomContentID=%7B438816E3-90CD-4D7A-ABF6-CE1FA320A6C5%7D#staciePerlman   New Weight Loss Procedure: Single-incision Lap-band Surgery http://www.ask.com/bar?q=single+incision+laparoscopic+lap+band&page=1&qsrc=19&ab=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.austinbariatric.com%2Fdefault%2Fsilapband   Amanda Tyacke was asked if LapBand and RNY patients an have the Full Bar. Her explanation was that we COULD have it just DO NOT have the whole bar. Instead try 1/3^rd – but DO NOT drink water with it. She tried and said she was miserable when she drank the water – she is 3 years out from having a LapBand. What is the Full Bar: FullBar is all natural and delicious. Simply eat FullBar with an 8-ounce glass of water 30 minutes before your 2 biggest meals of the day. For added fullness and flavor, drink Aquafull with your FullBar. By meal time, you'll eat less and your hunger will be completely satisfied. http://www.ask.com/bar?q=full+bar&page=1&qsrc=2417&ab=2&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fullbar.com%2F   Aqua Full:
Drink Aquafull with your Fullbar for added fullness, or alone anytime

	20 packets
	Add 1 Aquafull packet to 16 ounces of water
	Includes antioxidants & metabolizers
	Zesty Lemon Tea and Berry Bliss

https://secure.fullbar.com/fullbar_programs.html?show_aqua=Y   Dr. Snyder has been asked to be part of a study for the FDA for a new procedure called the “BIB” http://www.aestheticbeautycentre.co.uk/bib.htm  What Is the BIB® System?
The BIB® System consists of a soft, expandable balloon, the placement tube and a filling system so a physician can orally insert the weight loss aid. Once inserted in the stomach, the balloon is filled with sterile saline. When filled, the balloon is too large to pass into the bowel and will float freely in the stomach.   Our next meeting will be on Thursday 3/26/09 at Starbucks at 6149 S Balsam Way, Littleton, CO 80123. (1 block S of Bowles on the E side of Wadsworth – behind Gunther Toody’s).   We hope to see everyone there!    

LITTLETON SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MINUTES FROM 2/26/09

 

 

We had 10 members in attendance this week….  Thank you Barbara, Samantha and Sue for coming to our group!  We always like to have new members and guests!

 

Total Weight Loss combined was 1006 lbs!  An average of 106 lbs per person!  What a great accomplishment!

 

After our last meeting I emailed several companies and asked for samples.  Some of the samples I handed out:  Bariatric Advantage (Supplements like Chewable Multi-Vitamins, Chewable Iron, B12 Sublingual etc),  Nectar (Protein Samples), Kay’s Naturals (Protein Snacks – chips, pretzels, cereals).  I have more – so if you missed the meeting – I will bring more for next week’s meeting.

 

While passing out the samples it triggered all of the conversations in our meeting:

 

ITEMS DISCUSSED:

 

1)  5 Day Pouch Test:  www.5daypouchtest.com 

This is the 5-day plan that I have developed and used to determine if my pouch is working and return to that tight newbie feeling. And a bonus to this plan, it helps one get back to the basics of the weight loss surgery diet and it triggers weight loss. Also, it is not difficult to follow and if you are in a stage of carb-cycling it will break this pattern. Sounds pretty good, right?

I did this 5-day Pouch Test last week and found it pretty easy to do.  I especially liked a couple of the recipes which I will share with you:

Vanilla Chai Smoothie by Andie Jamari
Page 12 - Neighborhood Cookbook

Ingredients:
1 cup skim milk
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 cup Splenda
1/3 cup unflavored or vanilla protein powder
3 teaspoons instant tea mix, unsweetened
3/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoons cinnamon
8 ice cubes

Directions:
Place all ingredients into blender container; cover and mix until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Serve 2. Per serving: 110 calories, 16 grams protein, 11 grams carbohydrate and no fat.

 

 

Low-Carb Pumpkin & Sausage Soup
A delicious autumnal soup. Use a butternut squash puree if you prefer. You probably want to hide the leftovers of this soup if you are including it in your pouch test - or your spouse and kids will gobble it up when you are not looking.

16 ounces country style sausage
1/2 cup onions, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 cup fresh mushrooms, chopped
15 ounces pumpkin, canned
5 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup water

Over medium heat brown the sausage breaking into small bits. Drain fat. Add the onion, garlic, Italian seasoning and mushrooms and saute until vegetables are cooked.

Add the canned pumpkin and the broth, stirring to mix well. Cook at a low simmer for 20-30 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, sour cream and water.  Servings: 8  Notes: Per 1-cup serving: 376 calories. 15 grams protein, 32 grams fat (14 saturated) and 9 grams carbohydrate (2 grams dietary fiber). Rich in Vitamin A, Thiamin and B12 and one serving has 63mg of calcium.

 

THIS RECIPE – I ALTERED A LITTLE BY USING A CAN OF BLACK BEANS INSTEAD OF FRESH BEANS SINCE I WAS HUNGRY AND TOO LAZY TO COOK THE DRY BEANS! lol

Black Bean Soup: Days 1 & 2
Beans are naturally a low-GI (Glycemic Index) food and one of nature's nutritional power packs. They are considered good sources of protein, fiber, B vitamins, iron, zinc and magnesium.

Ingredients:
1 cup dry black beans
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced celery
1 large red pepper, roasted
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
2 quarts vegetable stock
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions In a large bowl, cover black beans with 3 1/2 cups water and soak overnight. Rinse beans in a colander with fresh water and drain.  Lightly spray a large saucepan with olive oil. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, roasted pepper and garlic Add vegetable stock and black beans. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour.  When beans are tender, pour into a food processor and puree. Add cumin, salt, oregano, parsley, and cilantro.  Serves 6. Per serving: 140 calories, 13 grams protein, 27 grams carbohydrate, 5 grams dietary fiber and .5 grams of fat.

2)      BP2 (Plantation Bell Peanut Butter Substitute  http://www.bellplantation.com/

 

You have found the home of the famous powdered peanut butter named PB2 ("Peanut Butter, second generation"), Extra Virgin Roasted Peanut Oil, and our newest product member - Chocolate PB2. All are made from high-quality peanuts that have been processed without the use of any chemicals.

PB2 has 85% less fat calories than regular peanut butter, is a good source of protein, and still maintains the full flavor of regular peanut butter. Essentially, the oil is "squeezed out" of roasted peanuts and what remains is our famous PB2! The same is done for our Chocolate PB2, except that high quality cocoa powder is added for the chocolate lovers out there.

Extra Virgin Roasted Peanut Oil is produced from peanuts which have been shelled, sorted, roasted, and pressed to remove the oil. The resulting extra virgin peanut oil has a distinct rich flavor and aroma.

 

3)    Sugar Free Syrup – DIVINCI  http://www.davincigourmet.com/products/sugar_free_flavored_syrups/

 

Samantha said there is a store at Colorado Mills that sells the DaVinci syrups that will order ANYTHING for you and you don’t have to pay shipping.

Sugar Free Flavored Syrups

No Calories. Sugar Free. Great Taste. Sweetened with SPLENDA® Brand Sweetener, our Sugar Free Flavored Syrups have the same world–class flavor as our Classic Syrups, but without the calories. SPLENDA is the only zero–calorie sweetener made from real sugar and as a result, it tastes more like real sugar.

4)      Couch to 5K for IPOD  http://www.c25k.com/ 

C25K, is a fantastic program that's been designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers or 30 minutes in just 9 weeks.

5)      IV Vitamins (In lieu of chewable or liquid)  IV Vitamin Therapy
IV Vitamin Therapy or Intravenous Vitamin Therapy is a means by which a healthy and safe dose of natural vitamins and minerals are given to a patient through their circulatory system. The healthy vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are put directly into your bloodstream; therefore, you get maximum absorption. When vitamins are taken by mouth, they have to be digested and adequate absorption does not occur. IV Vitamin Therapy is the most direct way to experience the benefits of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Many people utilize I.V. vitamin therapy from time to time for preventive measures such as the anti-aging benefits that vitamins and minerals are known to have. Others seek IV Vitamin Therapy for health promotion measures such as improving sports performance, for increasing energy, or for a greater sense of well being. Still others may need IV Vitamin Therapy during acute times, such as the onset of cold or the onset of a viral outbreak. Most IV Vitamin Therapy should be administered by a registered nurse or medical doctor who is experienced in IV Vitamin Therapy treatments and who can safely and effectively administer the correct formulations for oneÕs particular needs. Only the purest and most natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids should be used.

 

6)      Internet Weight Loss Channel:  http://www.weightlosssurgerychannel.com/    

7)      The North Carolina Support Group I was telling you about that has several groups that have evolved from the original support group meeting.  http://www.meetup.com/wls-101/

 

8)      Getting reimbursed from your insurance company if you were “self pay” for your Weight Loss Surgery.

http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/seeking-insurance-approval-for-your-weight-loss-su.html

This is just a little bit of information about insurance coverage and getting reimbursed.

 

9)      Purchasing Bras

We were discussing how hard it is to purchase bras when you have excess rolls on your back.

http://sassybax.com/underwire_bralette.php

http://yourbrafitfinder.typepad.com/

http://a11news.com/98/butterfly-bra/

10)  We were talking about purchasing clothing and the store called Torrid came up:  http://www.torrid.com/torrid/index.jsp

 

We ran over the hour by talking about “How do you ‘see’ yourself” and “how do you handle compliments”?

I brought up the one thing that I’ve had to start doing since loosing weight and that’s what I call “The 10 second INHALE”…. When someone says to me “You look so thin… or You look so good” – I have to take time to inhale for 10 seconds to sort through the things running through my head and it gives me time to muster up “THANK YOU”

Our challenge from Gregg this week – was to find 3 people this week that we only say “Thank You” to and no more than that.  No more “Thanks but I still have a long way to go”  “No I don’t – I’m still FAT” etc….

We will continue our “Self Talk” in our meeting next week on 3/12/09.

 

THANKS FOR JOINING US!!!

 

LITTLETON SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MINUTES   THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2009   We had 10 members in attendance this week and 4 guests! Thank you everyone for attending! We love to see such a good turn-out…   In attendance were 2 LapBands, 7 RNY and 1 Gastric Sleeve. For a total weight loss of 1,039 lbs!!!! Celebrate your accomplishments daily!   Items Discussed:   1) Internal Hernias after RNY: http://bariatrictimes.com/2007/04/26/internal-hernia-after-laparoscopic-gastric-bypass-a-review-of-the-literature/    2) Health Issues before WLS: http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/obesity-health-risks and Health Issues/Medications after Weight Loss:   

Obesity-related medical problem	Percent of people with resolution after surgery*
Obstructive sleep apnea	74%-98%
Diabetes	83%
Gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD)	72%-98%
Degenerative joint disease or orthopedic problems	41%-76%
High blood pressure	52%-92%

*Ranges mean that different studies found different percentages.   http://www.webmd.com/diet/weight-loss-surgery/what-to-expect-after-weight-loss-surgery   3) Verticle Sleeve: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/vsg/cmsID,8874/mode,content/a,cms/

                    Area providers that perform the Gastric Sleeve: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/CO/a,doclisting/type,46/ If they provide the Gasric Sleeve it would be listed as VSG or VGB (Vertical Gastric Band)   4) We talked about walking around the lake at Clement Park when the weather is nice. We also talked about doing a charity walk or a 3K in the future. Here are some websites I was given:    http://www.bkbltd.com/calendar.html  http://www.irongirl.com/Events/Denver.htm   I have requested more information for the 3 Day Breast Cancer Awareness walk that is being held from August 28^th through the 30^th and will share the information with you when I receive it. I myself, have incentive to participate as I have just found out my best friend in the whole world has been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She lives in Rochester and I would like to make this my FIRST walk…. I have never participated in something this big.   http://www.the3day.org/site/PageServer?pagename=DV_landing   There is another walk for Breast Cancer that I just heard on the radio:   http://walk.avonfoundation.org/site/PageServer?pagename=denv_home_2k8     ***If you see an event on either one of these sites that you would like to participate in – send me an email and I will see who else would like to join and we can do it as a group.   ***If you have any other sites you know of for any other walking/running please forward them to me***     5)      Julia brought some samples of a couple desserts she made. Here are the recipes and I will be submitting them to the staff for Dr. Snyder to share with other Support Group Leaders at their meetings.
The jam filling is completely up in the air as far as how many combinations or tastes you want. Make several with different fillings and arrange on a beautiful platter. I made this in a springform pan, but you could make it in any 9 or 8 inch pan.

Vegetable cooking spray
6 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup Nature Sweet 
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg yolk
1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided
1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon California almond flour, divided
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
3/4 cup Nature’s Hollow sugar free raspberry jam (or any flavor)
1/8 teaspoon almond extract
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly coat a round or square 8 inch pan with vegetable cooking spray and set aside. (If you have it, an 8-inch springform pan is perfect and makes the bars easy to remove.)

In a medium bowl cream the butter with the Nature Sweet Crystals until light. Beat in the vanilla and egg yolk. Gradually stir in 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup almond flour. Mix in the chopped pecans. Dough will be stiff but moist. Reserve 1/3 cup of this mixture and set aside. With buttered fingers press the remaining dough into prepared pan.  Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until it just begins to be golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.

To reserved crumbs mix in 1 tablespoon flour, 1 tablespoon almond flour and the cinnamon. 

In a small bowl heat raspberry jam in the microwave until soft, but not runny. Stir in almond extract and carefully spread on baked crust to within 1/2 inch of edge. Sprinkle reserved crumb-cinnamon mixture onto the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and jam is bubbly. Allow to cool before cutting. Makes 16 servings.

Per Serving: Calories 118; Protein 2 g; Fat 10 g; Carbs 4 g; Sugar 0 g; Sodium 38 mg  
Crust:
1 1/2 cup sugar-free cookie crumbs OR graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons butter

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In microwave-safe bowl melt peanut butter and butter. Add to crumbs and mix until well combined. Pat into a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden. Cool completely.

Filling:
One 8-ounce pkg. reduced-fat cream cheese
1 cup creamy peanut butter
3/4 cup Splenda Granular or Nature Sweet powdered
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
One 12-ounce container (3 cups) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Chopped peanuts or cookie crumbs

Stir together cream cheese, peanut butter, Splenda, and vanilla until well mixed. Fold in thawed whipped topping. Pour into prepared pie crust and carefully smooth to edges. Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cookie crumbs on top for garnish. Cover tightly and chill overnight.  Makes 16 servings.

Per Serving: Calories 219; Protein 7 g; Fat 17 g; Carbs 11g; Sugar 4 g; Sodium 205 mg  
One 8-ounce pkg. reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
2 cups skim milk
One 4-serving size sugar-free instant Lemon pudding mix
1/2 cup sugar fee Cool Whip, thawed
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon Splenda
Zest of half a lemon
2 cups fresh raspberries
3 kiwi, diced

In a large bowl whip the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add the milk until blended. Beat in pudding mix, vanilla, Splenda, and lemon zest. Allow to thicken and fold in cool whip. 

In 8 small dessert cups or glass, layer fruit and cream cheese mixture, dividing ingredients evenly among them. Garnish with additional fruit and lemon zest, if desired. Chill for 1-2 hours. Makes 8 servings.

Per Serving: Calories 130; Protein 6 g; Fat 7 g; Carbs 7 g; Sugar 6 g; Sodium 185 mg     OUR GUEST:  Terri Kirwan, MA, LPC Certified Solution Coach, Psychotherapist “THE SOLUTION” www.comprehensivecounseling.net         (720-732-4050)   “RETRAIN YOUR BRAIN FOR HEALTH & HAPPINESS!!”   Solution Training has been shown to:  

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• PROVIDE FREEDOM FROM SYMPTOMS OF STRESS

  Over/Under Eating, Chemical Dependency, Drinking Too Much, Smoking, Over-Spending, Over-Working, Gampling, People Pleasing, Rescuing Others, Distancing, Thinking Too Much….   The only Method to show continued improvement or up to Six years AFTER the completion of your training.   FREE TALKS: Time 6:00 – 7:30 pm   March 1, 2009    People House (Upstairs) 3035 W 25^th Avenue, Denver 80211 Sunday February 15, and 22^nd (Boulder) 7305 Baseline Road, Boulder 80303  

Hi Everyone!!   We had 5 in attendance tonight – we missed the rest of you! Our total combined weight loss for this meeting was 537 lbs!!   Things we discussed :   Rose Bariatrics is starting a few new groups:   Clothing Exchange – more information will be sent to you when I get it. But the way it was described was if you bring 3 items – you go home with 3 new items.   Menu Planning Group: Beth (Nutritionist) will be helping with meal planning and menu’s for shopping and menu swapping. This group is estimated to start in February.   Jessica Crandall is going to be holding a weight loss exercise class like a “boot camp” on the 1^st and 3^rd Monday evening starting February. The classes will cost $15. Look for more information from Rose and/or on www.denverbariatrics.com     Discussions within our group:   Sugar Free Snacks: Stover candy: http://www.russellstover.com/jump.jsp?itemType=CATEGORY&itemID=24             Mother’s Cookies: According to the internet this company went bankrupt in 2008 – so buy all you can cuz there won’t be any more!!   PORTION SIZES:. It helps at our house to make sure when purchasing anything to immediately portion only a serving size into a snack size zip lock (if it’s a dry product like peanuts, sunflower seeds, sugar free cookies etc) so you are aware of what and how much you are eating.   Internal Hernia’s: An internal hernia is defined as a protrusion of intestine through a defect within the peritoneal cavity, as opposed to an external (or incisional) hernia that protrudes through all layers of the abdominal wall.2 Internal hernias almost always occur through iatrogenic defects created surgically. http://bariatrictimes.com/2007/04/26/internal-hernia-after-laparoscopic-gastric-bypass-a-review-of-the-literature/   Exercise: It’s important to change up your routine every 3-6 weeks as your body will get used to what it’s doing and slow down your weight loss.   http://www.ehow.com/how_2052201_create-exercise-program-after-gastric.html   PROTEINS:   Muscle Milk: Cinnamon Bun… Use it to add to Oatmeal to help lower cholesterol. Tastes VERY good.   EAS AdvantEDGE: The taste is pretty good. http://www.eas.com/Products/DailyNutrition       The question: What is a type of protein that is tasteless?     1) Any Whey: This virtually tasteless powder is fat FREE with 17 grams of protein and only 1 gram of carbohydrates.   2)100% PURE Liquid Egg White Protein a liquid egg product that is tasteless http://www.incredibody.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=186     3) Bariatric Advantage TUB Meal Replacement (Unflavored)
High Protein Meal Replacement – 27 Grams Protein!
The Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacement comes in an economic 24-serving tub with a measured scoop to make accurate dispensing easy. Each 140-calorie serving provides a full 27 grams of protein, with only 7 grams of carbohydrate (of which 5 grams are fiber, and only 1 gram is sugar) and 4 grams of fat. They are also lactose-free to best meet the needs of weight loss surgery patients. One hundred percent of the protein is from a high quality whey protein isolate (There is no soy protein, only a small amount of soy lecithin to mask aftertaste). Fortified with between 15 and 50 percent of the DV for 23 essential vitamins and minerals, this product makes a perfect pre-operative weight loss shake or post-operative meal replacement for bariatric surgery patients. Our meal replacement also comes in a great variety of flavors (chocolate, vanilla, chocolate-mint, strawberry, banana, and coffee) as well and an unflavored shake that can be mixed with soup, yogurt, fruit or home-purchased flavorings. http://www.bariatricadvantage.com/catalog?cat=Meal%20Replacement&so=     Walking:   We were discussing how much easier it is for us to walk up and down stairs. Realizing while doing so that we are able to climb stairs without becoming out of breath.   We are able to walk up and down the stairs with one foot on each step instead of two on each step and pausing every other step to catch our breath.   SUGGESTION:   #1: On the evenings of our meetings (2^nd and 4^th Thursday) – if the weather permits – meet at Starbucks at 5:30 pm and take a walk around the lake at Clement Park before our meeting. Then meet at 6:30 as usual.   #2: Attending Marathons in the area as a GROUP.   I am looking for the website to find out where and when all the marathons are in Colorado.     Why we chose Dr. Snyder:   We discussed the nature of the weight loss surgery surgeons in the area and why we chose Dr. Snyder vs. someone else. Although the other surgeons were educated and knowledgeable they didn’t offer a well-rounded plan as Dr. Snyder had in place.    It was also discussed that the Swedish Bariatric website had some very good information.       Thyroid: All of the information below is from this website: http://www.healthworks2000.com/About%20High%20and%20Low%20Thyroid.htm   One of the primary functions of the thyroid hormones is to control protein synthesis and nitrogen balance. When your thyroid hormones are imbalanced, either low or high, you need to consider methods to help balance protein, carbohydrate, and fatty acid metabolism.  Thyroid Metabolism  It was mentioned in this article that thyroid metabolism is involved in protein, carbohydrate, and fatty acid metabolism.  You can consider the following ideas, nutritional ideas to help improve metabolism 1.      Consider supplementing ion-exchange whey protein powder.  Thyroid is involved with proper protein metabolism.  Imbalanced thyroid can result in decreased protein synthesis or breaking protein down to rapidly.  In either case the body is no longer maintaining appropriate protein levels, and supplementing whey protein can help replace depleted protein levels resulting from improper thyroid metabolism. 2.      Another condition of imbalanced thyroid hormones can be inappropriate nitrogen levels.  Nitrogen levels are the result of proton balance in the body, hydrogen molecules.  OKG supplement and AKG supplement can help scavenge and reduce ammonia levels in the body, which will result in reducing hydrogen levels.  This will help to balance nitrogen levels.  You can read more about the specific details in the article, “Atkins Diet/High Protein Diets/in Diabetes”.   3.      Consider digestive enzymes.  They can help support the processes of digestion and metabolism.  To read about methods to use digestive enzymes, read the article in the diabetes section, “Control Of Blood Sugar Is Only Part Of The Story-Diabetics Need To Increase The Efficiency Of The Pancreas”. 4.      Proper levels of growth hormone help to control fatty acids used for fuel inside cells.  See an A-4 doctor and balance your growth hormone levels. 5.      Consider supplements that increase oxygen in the body.  When thyroid metabolism is not proper, this can lead to decreased ATP levels.  ATP is the energy currency of the body and oxygen is needed to help make ATP in the mitochrondia.  "Cytochrome oxidase has a very high affinity for oxygen, which allows the respiratory chain to function at the maximum rate until the tissue has become virtually depleted of O2 (oxygen) (page 140)."  Thus oxygen can keep proper ATP metabolism continuing, which can help thyroid and metabolism.  Consider ginseng with G-115 (Ginsana), ginkgo biloba, the prescription drug hydergine, the prescription drug pircetaem, antioxidants, CoQ10, and other supplements that can increase oxygen levels in the body.  Read the articles in the Parkinson's section of this web site for more information on supplementation to help increase ATP levels and oxygen levels in the body. 6.      Reduce levels of fatty acids used as a fuel supply to produce ATP.  Increasing oxygen in the body is one method that decreases fatty acids used to produce ATP.  When oxygen decreases, this leads to decreased ATP levels in the body.  More fatty acids will be released into the bloodstream, to become fuel, to compensate for the decreased energy potential from lower ATP levels.  You can help reverse this process, by increasing oxygen to tissue, resulting in decreased fatty acids used to produce ATP.  Also consider cutting down on fats you eat, that can raise the levels of blood fats in the bloodstream.  The more fats, the more oxygen required to burn the fats for energy, thus depriving oxygen that can be used to make ATP from carbohydrates. 7.      For low thyroid eat more carbohydrates and for high thyroid eat fewer carbohydrates.  Carbohydrates help increase ATP levels.  In low thyroid you need to increase ATP levels and in high thyroid increased carbohydrates will only help to stimulate thyroid hormones more.       In conclusion, in thyroid conditions you need to consider proper utilization of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.  Balancing metabolism can help improve the efficiency and function of digestion and metabolism, and help support thyroid function.  Considering methods to maintain proper carbohydrate metabolism, leading to production of ATP, is a method to help balance proper utilization of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Multivitamin and mineral complex, taken as directed on the label (increased vitamins and minerals are needed in this "hyper" metabolic condition. Vitamin B complex with extra riboflavin (B2) and thiamine (B1) and B6 (pyridoxine), taken as directed on the label. Brewer's yeast, 1/3 tbsp. per day, is rich in many basic nutrients, especially the B vitamins. Essential fatty acids, taken as directed on the label, is needed for correct glandular function. Lecithin, taken as directed on the label, aids in digestion of fats and protects the lining of all cells and organs. Vitamin C, 3,000-5,000 mg. per day, is especially important since this is a stressful condition. Vitamin E, 400 IU per day (do not exceed this dosage, excessive amounts of vitamin E may stimulate the thyroid gland, however, a small amount is needed).   Our next meeting is: 2/12/9 We will be having a guest speaker: Terri Kirwan, MA, LPC. Certified Solution Coach, Psychotherapist.

I was reading some of the items on my Leader Forum board and came accross this link.  I would've printed it for the group - but it ends up that it is 36 pages of GREAT information.

I hope you check it out!

http://www.asbs.org/Newsite07/resources/bgs_final.pdf


Yvonne

I wanted to let everyone know that I do not intend to keep holding our meetings at "The Shack" as it is not an appropriate place to try to have a Weight Loss Support group.

I am in the process of talking with Littleton Hospital (which is in the same vicinity) about getting a room for our meetings.

If you have any suggestions regarding a location that you've got in mind - please feel free to email me as I would like to be in a new location by 11/13.

Have a great day!!

Meeting Minutes 9/25/8 4 Attendees   We started this meeting with a big shock as Bear Rock Café has gone out of business. Gregg and I (Yvonne) arrived there about 6:00 pm and found notes on the windows announcing they had been suffering from the economy and they decided to close their doors as of September 13^th. (Only 2 days after our last meeting).   In a crunch Gregg and I contemplated the businesses in the area and decided to hold our meeting tonight on the outside patio of the restaurant called “The Shack”. Located across the street on the NW corner of S Broadway and Mineral. It’s a sports bar but we had to do something as we only had a ½ hour before our meeting started. I stayed at “The Shack” and Gregg went back to Bear Rock and instructed members to go across the street. He was there until 6:45 and then came over to join the meeting in progress.   Although the patio was quite loud at times – The Shack has a “back room” that was offered to us for FREE. So our next couple of meetings will be held at “The Shack” and in the meantime I will be scoping out other businesses in the neighborhood (as I love the location) and see if we can find somewhere else that isn’t a “restaurant”. I’m very disappointed that Bear Rock went out of business as I just loved the ambiance and the energy at the place. (I think the manager of “The Shack” was concerned we would hold our meetings in the back room and not make any purchases at the restaurant – which is why I want to look around to see if something better is available).   As a follow-up of the questions from our last meeting regarding Dr. Snyder – I explained to the members tonight that I had talked to Dr. Snyder yesterday and asked that he would be a guest at one of our upcoming meetings to answer some of our questions.   He has agreed to come to one of our upcoming meetings and as soon as I hear anything I will send an email of when he will be attending.   OPEN FORUM: Julia discussed Kim Delamont’s desired caloric intake for her since she is 6 months out. It is expected that at 6 months out the caloric intake should be between 800-1000 calories per day. (See “Bariatric Overview Class” manual from Dr. Snyder Section “Diet Overview” or see “Gastric Bypass Notebook” manual from Dr. Snyder Section “Bariatric Diet”)   Julia has started adding Flax Seed to her diet which doesn’t add a lot to her caloric intake but it will help with Fiber and Omega 3.   Also discussed was how we are expected to eat within an hour of waking up and an hour of going to sleep and then every 2-4 hours in between. Isn’t it peculiar how everyone reacts to the RNY or Lapband differently (i.e. Some can’t eat solid food first thing in the morning as their stomachs don’t tolerate it).    We discussed how much energy we have now! And how we are feeling fantastic!    We discussed how other people make comments like “Your arms are too thin” “Your legs are too big” “You’re looking too thin”… What do these comments mean to us?    We haven’t even reached our “goals” yet and it seems as if people are inadvertently trying to keep us from getting there. (So it seems).   We laughed about how our back sides (butts) are more sensitive to hard surfaces.   EXERCISE: Exercise is detrimental to pushing the “Honeymoon phase” (rapid weight loss) phase as long as you can.   Julia seems to be extremely successful in fitting in her exercise weekly and making sure to measure her meals and count her calories and nutritional intakes from her food. I myself am going to incorporate some of her GREAT habits into my life and see how things happen.    Check out these websites for tracking food and exercise: www.sparkpeople.com  http://www.fitday.com/ http://www.diet-blog.com/archives/2007/08/21/tracking_your_food_intake_online_resources.php http://bestuff.com/stuff/the-daily-plate   Also discussed again was Severe Sleep Apnea http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200809/1221708762.html   There is also a new mask for the CPAP machine…. http://www.cpap.com/productpage/puritan-bennett-new-breeze-system-sleepgear-interface.html   We talked about doing a personal presentation of ourselves so that each of the members can get to know “who” we are outside of our Weight Loss Surgery. Like “What do you do?” “Do you have kids?” “Married/Single”…   We also talked about doing “Before” and “After” pictures and bring them to the meetings.   Our next meeting is OCTOBER 8, 2008   Have a great 2 weeks!!