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Debra G

LAP-BAND Patients
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Blog Entries posted by Debra G

  1. Debra G
    A Saturday evening out in Manhattan with friends after seeing a Broadway show - we decided to go to Carmine's, an Italian restaurant, to eat. I told them to choose the restaurant - no matter where I went I would not be able to eat much anyway.
     
    Carmine's is a family-style restaurant with large portions that feed about four people. We got a cold antipasto, which came on a huge platter, and I was able to pick a few things off of there to eat - smoked salmon, yellow tomato, eggplant, red peppers, spinach and cheese, which was lovely for me. For the main dish, we had veal parmigiana with pasta, of which I had a little bit. I also remembered not to drink my raspberry lemonade until I had finished my solid food. I waited 15-20 minutes before drinking. Boy this felt so good, not making myself sick.
     
    What was nice about this family style was that I was able to taste a little of everything, without having to order entire portions for myself, most of which I could not finish. So this worked out just great for me.
     
    I think what I'm saying here is that I'm learning how to eat out with my lap band and still enjoy the dining experience. This only took me 9 months to figure out - LOL. So this was a new step for me and it really felt good - a Saturday evening out in Manhattan.:rolleyes2:
  2. Debra G
    This juicy and tender Chili-Orange Drumsticks dish is full of robust flavors, and low in calories. A great meal all year round. ENJOY!
     
    Makes 4 servings
    Active Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 6 minutes
     
    318 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  3. Debra G
    This easy healthy recipe is full of bold flavors and taste. The Tabbouleh I has lots of rich flavors in it self added with the dill sauce is a added bonus to your taste bubs. ENJOY!
     
    Makes 4 steaks
     
    Active Time: 20 minutes
    Total Time: 1 hour
     
    379 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  4. Debra G
    Learn how to cut the calories in your favorite drink.
    Going to a Garden Party or a BBQ or just a Evening out.
    Tropical cocktails are a rite of summer—delicious and refreshing. The problem is, the calories can push your diet over the edge. To counter this, I come up with some less-indulgent versions of classic seasonal favorites. Enjoy!
     
    Margarita
    It’s tempting to pick up a bottle of store-bought frozen margarita mix, but that’s where most of the 325 calories lie. Instead, just get tequila, limes for fresh-squeezed lime juice and some Triple Sec to make your own version. Calories saved: 153per 6 ounces.
     
    Mojito
    Sugar adds to the taste of this Cuban specialty, helping release the mint flavor. It also adds to the 145-calorie count. Instead, use a sugar substitute, like stevia, which contains virtually no calories, yet works to enhance the mint’s flavor during the muddling process. Calories saved: 80 per 6 ounces.
     
    Cosmopolitan
    This cranberry-flavored cocktail is pretty to look at, but full of empty calories. Lower the count of this 130-calorie drink by using diet cranberry juice. Then grab a bottle of Ty Ku Soju, an Asian spirit that is a great alternative to vodka and contains only 68 calories per 1.5 ounces. Calories saved: 65 per 4 ounces.
     
    Strawberry Daiquiri
    Don’t be fooled—just because it’s named after a fruit doesn’t mean this drink is healthy. Just like with margaritas, the pre-made mixes are packed with sugar, leaving you with a drink that can peak at 350 calories. Make your own with fresh strawberries (if they’re not sweet enough add more sweetness with a sugar substitute) and definitely skip the whipped cream topping. Calories saved 215 per 8 ounces.
     
    Piña Colada
    The queen of summer drinks, the piña colada can max out at over 650 calories! Substitute Coco López Cream of Coconut Lite for the coconut cream and coconut milk. Combine it with pineapple juice, sparkling water and a little rum, and you can satisfy both your sweet tooth and your diet. Calories saved: 475 per 8 ounces.
     
    SO ENJOY THE SUMMER GUILT-FREE!
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE RECIPES:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  5. Debra G
    Diabetes appropriate, Low calorie, Low carbohydrate, Low cholesterol, Low sodium, Heart healthy, Healthy weight, Gluten free.
     
    This meatless dish makes for a great meal.
    Portobello caps make excellent mini casseroles. Here they hold a tomato, cheese and olive stuffing that grills up to a smoky perfection. Serve them with whole-wheat couscous and a mixed green salad for an easy meal. Tasty and filling to. ENJOY!!
     
    Makes 4 servings
    Active Time: 35 minutes
    Total Time: 40 minutes
     
    122 calories Per serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  6. Debra G
    Diabetes appropriate, Low calorie, Low carbohydrate, Low sodium, Heart healthy, Healthy weight, Gluten free.
     
    What a fantastic recipe and so easy to make.
    Pork tenderloin is about as lean as it comes so it's a great healthy option, but it shouldn't be overcooked as it can dry out. Maple and mustard make a sweet-and-savory mahogany-colored sauce. A delicate note of sage gives it a wintery touch. Fresh thyme or rosemary also work if you prefer. Serve with barley, roasted squash and a Pinot Noir. What a satisfying dish. ENJOY!!
     
    Makes 4 servings
     
    Active Time: 30 minutes
    Total Time: 45 minutes
     
    225 calories Per serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  7. Debra G
    Halloween pumpkin spice raisin muffins.
     
    BOO LICIOUS!
     
    Better than cupcakes but just as cute! This is an adaptation of the Pumpkin Muffins recipe that is also super tasty! I also made these with walnuts on top for the non candy corn lovers;) Pumpkin muffins are perfect Halloween party fare and are always welcome on the autumn breakfast table or the Thanksgiving bread basket.
    This festive recipe is fun for all. SCARY GOOD!
     
    Servings Per Recipe: 21
     
    117 Calories: Per 1 Muffin Serving
     
    30 Minutes to Prepare and Cook
     
    Ingredients:
     
    1 box spice cake mix
     
    1 15oz. can pure pumpkin
     
    1/3c raisins, packed
     
    1/3c water
     
    20 pieces candy corn
     
    3 Tbsp light cream cheese
     
    5 Tbsp Splenda with fiber
     
    1/4 tsp vanilla
     
    Directions:
     
    1. Mix the pumpkin, water, spice cake mix powder, and cinnamon together. Mix in raisins.
     
    2. Drop by tablespoons into greased muffin cups, making sure the tops are flat and not lumpy.
     
    3. Soften cream cheese while they bake and mix in Splenda and vanilla for icing.
     
    4. Bake at 350 18-22 minutes or until a knife comes out clean. After muffins have completely cooled, add 1/2 tsp (enough to stick the candy to) to center of muffin and top with candy corn.
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE FUN FOODS OR JUST TO SEE MY RECIPES OF THE DAY:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  8. Debra G
    This fat-free marinade makes chicken, beef, lamb, and even fish tender and tasty.
    makes enough for 4 chicken breast or fish fillets or about 1 pound of meat.
     
    Makes 4 servings.
     
    1/2 onion, coarsely, crushed
     
    4 1/2 garlic cloves, crushed
     
    2 1/2 tablespoons minced peeled fresh ginger
     
    1 tablespoon fresh lemond juice
     
    1 cup plain fat-free yogaurt
     
    1/2 teaspoon salt
     
    1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
     
    1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
     
    1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
     
    1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
     
    1/8 teaspoon ground cardamon
     
    1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
     
    In a food processor or blender, combine the onion, gralic, ginger, and lemon juice: puree.
     
    Add the yogurt, salt, coriander, cumin, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves:
     
    Process until combined.
     
    About 1/3 cup: 47 cal.
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE MARINADE RECIPES:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  9. Debra G
    I made this for a pot luck party this weekend. All my friends gobbled it up and asked for the recipe! Instead of using chicken, I used turkey sausage. You can use both chicken and sausage if you like. I also doubled the Cayenne pepper and the tabasco sauce depends on your family's taste. So easy to make and easy to throw together... PERFECTO! ENJOY!
     
    Makes 6 servings
    Prep Time: 10 mins
    Total Time: 6 HOURS
     
    325 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  10. Debra G
    Looking for a low-calorie dish, this salad will do that for you. Only 175 calories wonderful on a hot day and picnic friendly. ENJOY!
    Healthy Low-Calorie Picnic Recipes
     
    Makes 5 servings
     
    Active Time: 25 minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes
     
    175 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  11. Debra G
    This mouth watering dish has some bold flavors that you, your family and friends will love.
    Shrimp Cocktail Chipotle Bites hors d'oeuvre will be a hit at any dinner party. ENJOY!
     
    Makes 36 cocktail bites
    Servings 12
     
    Active Time: 8 minutes
    Total Time: 30 minutes
     
    160 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  12. Debra G
    What a beautiful day today in New Jersey! The sun is coming out - the weather is going to be nice, with a chance of rain later. Rain or no rain, warm weather or not, I am in a happy place. I have not felt this great in a long time.
     
    I am down to 197 pounds, from 288 when I had my surgery. There could be thunderstorms, hailstorms, 10 below, freezing rain -nothing will bring me down today!
     
    I have done a lot of hard work with this LAP-BAND® to stay on track - meaning exercising on a daily basis, eating healthier, watching every calorie that goes in my mouth. As we all know, this takes a lot of work. As I told those who said I took the easy way out - I said BAH - HUMBUG! There is nothing easy about this. I think lap banders are some of the strongest people. This is a life, body and mind change, just like with all the diets out there, you have to make a major change in your life, and this is no different.
     
    Everybody chooses the path that works for them, and I chose this one. With all diets and weight loss, we have to still do the work. I made the best choice in my life by doing this. I have so much more energy - I am so much happier, personable, confident, and I have so much more self-esteem.
     
    Last year at this time I was miserable - so sad. What a difference a year makes!
     
    My husband and I are going out today to celebrate my day. I am so giddy and happy, I feel like a kid going on a school outing to the circus (we actually ARE going to the circus today!).
     
    To all my friends out there, have a wonderful day, and thanks so much for your ongoing support! :tt1:
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG TO SEE ANY OF MY RECIPES OF THE DAY AND EXERCISE TIPS OF THE DAY ALONG WITH SO MUCH MORE.
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  13. Debra G
    This fall bounty includes apples, walnuts (I like pecans), and maple syrup. All three come together in this super-fragrant dessert.
    It's that time of year again, Apple-picking season. If you are like me you will find you have too many apples on your hands after a weekend of apple-picking with your kids and family. Here is a nice recipe to use up some of the apples. Makes for a low calorie desert.
    Apples are loaded with fiber, the soluble kind that helps lower blood cholesterol.
    Maple syrup, cinnamon and just a bit of butter bathe baked apples in a luscious warm sauce. YUMMMM... ENJOY!!
     
    Prep Time:10 min
    Start to Finish:50 min
     
    makes:4 servings
    140 Calories per 1 serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  14. Debra G
    Put a spin on hamburger beef with this exciting Italian Beef stuffed Peppers With Orzo Recipe. It will delight your taste buds with so much flavor.. ENJOY!
     
    Makes 4 servings
    Active Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 35 minutes
     
    328 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  15. Debra G
    Here, pumpkin isn't just an ingredient, it's actually what you cook in, too, creating a charming container for a hearty stew. To make serving easier, choose a pumpkin that is squat and wide, rather than tall and narrow.
     
    Tender spicy beef stew steams inside a glorious golden pumpkin, which makes a beautiful presentation. This beautiful dish can be server with a salad or soup. My friends and family so love this dish it never fails to wow them every time. ENJOY!
     
    Prep Time:25 Minutes
    Cook Time:1 Hour 30 Minutes
    Ready In:1 Hour 55 Minutes
     
    389 Calories per serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  16. Debra G
    This is one of the most easiest and fastest recipe I have. Do not blink or you will miss it. That's how quick it is. I love this recipe a lot for it's taste and flavors and great for a fast meal.
    ENJOY!
     
    Makes 4 servings
    Prep Time: 2 mins
    Total Time: 12 mins
     
    290 calories per 4 oz of sausage and 1/2 cup of beans
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  17. Debra G
    This recipe I will show you how it's the best pumpkin pie I have ever had in my life. This pie is based on my Grandma's recipe that she has passed down to me, and now am sharing it with you. Grandma's pumpkin pie recipes make delicious pies that are perfect to serve on any occasion. Learn how to make pumpkin pie the old-fashioned way, from scratch.
     
    Preparing the pumpkin filling from scratch does require a little extra effort, but compared to the taste of canned pumpkin,( which is ok to) the traditional homemade taste of these pies is worth it. They taste so good! You'll have to bake and judge for yourself.
     
    Hope you enjoy it as much as my family does. This is a holiday favorite with a delicious taste. Bring Grandma's pie to your table, your friends and family will not believe that you made this pie your self wow them. Happy Holidays Everyone. ENJOY!!
     
    Yield: 8 servings or 10 to 12 slices
    275 Calories per serving
     
    Times:Prep time 40 min
    Cook time 1 hr 0 min
    Total:1 hr 40 min
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  18. Debra G
    I had my 1/2 cc fill on Thursday and
    I'm feeling tight. This is the amount I get all the time - it has worked for me, until now. I have been sick for a few days now, not 100% myself. And I have not eaten anything since Wednesday night. All I have been able to eat was Jell-O, and my low-cal ice pops. Even my boost is not going down well.
     
    I lost 5 pounds from Thursday, down to 201 now. I try to take my 3 mile walk on Friday but I had to cut it short, because I felt like I was going to throw up. So I went back home.
     
    In the past when I had this feeling it would take a few days before I would be ok again. This is takeing a little longer to get back to my 100% self. So if I'm still feeling this way on Monday I think I will need to go back to my Doctor's office and get my frist unfill.:frown:
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ABOUT MY JOURNEY AND MY RECIPES OF THE DAY.
     
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  19. Debra G
    Took my 3 mile walk this morning, feeling good. Am wearing my new work out colthes that I brough yesterday. 1 sizes smaller then a month ago.. YEAAA !! Let me tell you am rockin my new look. lol:thumbup:
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR TODAYS RECIPE OF THE DAY...
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  20. Debra G
    Looking for a tender and juicy recipe with excellent results? This is the one for you!
     
    Because you're starting with a boneless cut, the cooking time is much shorter than if using a whole bird. Really tasty, and the turkey cames out super moist and tender. This dish will be so juicy, and the sauce adds to it's all ready wonderful taste and brings the flavors all together. This recipe sure makes my family smile and ask for seconds! ENJOY!!
     
    Yields: 8 servings
    Total cooking time: 40 minutes:
     
    349 Calories per serving:(serving size: about 6 ounces turkey and 1/4 cup gravy)
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  21. Debra G
    This is a very economy friendly recipe look below for total cost you will be amaze.
    Gazpacho, the classic fresh-vegetable salad from Spain that eats like a soup, usually takes a lot of chopping. In this streamlined recipe, most of the chopping is done for you by using canned tomatoes and vegetable juice. Because vegetable juice is a combination of several vegetables, you get most of the garden-fresh quality of a traditional gazpacho in a single ingredient. By adding some smoked turkey, this traditional light soup serves as a hearty, one-pot main-dish meal. For a spicier gazpacho, add a dash of hot pepper sauce. ENJOY!
     
    Total cost: $8.31
    Servings: 4
     
    Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes
     
    170 Calories Per Serving
     
    check out my blog for more info on this recipe and so many more:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  22. Debra G
    My mother has been making this soup for several years now. Stews for me are comfort foods and every time I makes this dish it reminds of my childhood. It is incredibly easy to make, given how tasty and how low in calories it is. Works well with white fish, I've used cod, tilapia, sole with good results. I also use clam juice some times, mmmmm... tasty. ENJOY!
     
    Makes 6 servings
    Active Time: 15 minutes
    Total Time: 45 minutes
     
    253 Calories Per Serving
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE INFO ON THIS RECIPE AND SO MANY MORE:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/
  23. Debra G
    Boo Licious:
     
    Halloween Cupcakes:
     
    No tricks, just treats for ghosts and ghouls of all ages Quick and Simple. To set the mood for your holiday party, turn plain cupcakes into ghostly goodies. Scary Good!
     
     
    Tip:
     
    Stenciled Halloween design. Just place stencil over icing and sprinkle on colored sugars. Add an icing decoration or two if you plan to “boo” who!
     
    185 Calories per 1 cupcake serving
     
    Yields: 22 servings
     
    Total Time: 40 min
    Prep Time: 25 min
    Cook Time: 15 min
     
     
    Cupcakes:
     
    1 package(s) (18.25 ) devil’s food cake mix with pudding
     
    1 cup(s) sour cream
     
    1/2 cup(s) vegetable oil
     
    3 large eggs
     
    1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
     
    Frosting:
     
    2 large egg whites
     
    1 cup(s) sugar
     
    2 teaspoon(s) lemon juice
     
    1 teaspoon(s) (light) corn syrup
     
    1/4 teaspoon(s) cream of tartar
    orange food coloring
     
    decorating sugar crystals, jelly beans, candy corns, (optional)
     
    Directions:
     
    1.Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350ºF. Paper-line 24 muffin cups.
     
    2.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, 3/4 cup water, sour cream, oil, eggs and vanilla, and blend with an electric mixer on low speed for 1 minute. Stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula, then turn mixer up to medium speed and beat 2 minutes more. The batter should look well combined. Spoon batter into muffin cups, so that each liner is three-quarters full.
     
    3.Bake cupcakes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes, then remove cupcakes from pans and leave them on the rack to cool completely.
     
    4.Meanwhile, make frosting: In top of double boiler, over 1 inch of simmering water, with handheld mixer at medium speed, beat egg whites, sugar, 1/4 cup water, lemon juice, corn syrup and cream of tartar until soft peaks form and temperature reaches 160ºF on candy thermometer, about 7 minutes. Remove top of double boiler from heat; beat 5 to 10 minutes longer, until stiff peaks form. Fold in orange food coloring until evenly distributed.
     
    5.Spread frosting on cupcakes and decorate with sugar crystals, jelly beans or other candies, as desired.
     
    CHECK OUT MY BLOG FOR MORE HALLOWEEN RECIPE OR FOR MY RECIPE OF THE DAY!:thumbup:
    http://life-after-lap-band.blogspot.com/

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