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You'll do great! My biggest surprise is how slowly I lost it. I was a "turtle" but after 1 1/2 years I went from size 22 to size 10's now! It's a long journey but well worth it! Just remember, one day at a time.:rolleyes2:

So I had surgery in July. So I'm about 10 months out. I'm down 88 pounds. I passed my goal weight and I'm hovering around 181-185. I went through some phases where I was very emotional at times. But I read that's just the hormones in your fat being released and that's just part of it. I've pretty well leveled out and feel normal. I eat pretty much whatever I want now. I avoid old bad habits. Don't eat hardly anything that's fried or much bread. I have a couple of beers from time to time when I get together with my friends. I don't push it though. I've lost quite a bit of muscle mass. I need to work out more. I wish I would have been taking in more protein shakes and doing more push ups, sit ups, and lifting weights over the past 6 months. I've also had some hair thinning. I think that's due to lack of protein. So drink/eat your daily protein! Super important. Vitamins are a must! Now I'm just trying to maintain my current weight. I don't want to lose anymore. Sometimes I wish I would have asked them to do a half sleeve or make my stomach a bit larger than they typically do. But overall I'm very pleased and don't have any regrets.

I had my surgery 9/10/13 and I'm having the same issue. I'm getting pretty emotional about it because I don't want to fail at this. My pre op weight was 297 and post op 270. I'm lost cause I been stuck at 270 for 2 weeks now.

I had my first appointment with Dr. Robinson and his Assistant on Monday, and I am shocked! This process seems like it is going to fly by! Here's how it went: I was scheduled for 2:30 but got there at 2:00, so they sat me down with paperwork to fill out. It included all the expected questions, including lists of failed diets, weights throughout your life, co-morbidities,etc. It took about ten minutes, and then they took me in early. The Physician's Assistant (to be called P.A. from the point on) took my blood pressure with a cuff that actually fits me, and it turns out my blood pressure is pretty darn good for a 300 lb. girl! 126/74. They weighed and measured me. We discussed the potential risks of banding, why I wanted the band vs. bypass, etc. It was all pretty straight forward. Then doctor Robinson came in. Dr. Robinson is a man of very few words, but I am not going to him for emotional support. I am seeking him because he seems intelligent, honest and open. He told me right off the bat that I am going to need a boob lift and lower body life after surgery. He also implied that if I mention later on down the road that my boobs sagging cause back pain, and the if I start getting rashes under my extra skin, that I will be able to get both procedures covered by insurance. He then laid me down on the table, looked at my belly, and told me to loose 20-25 lbs. beore surgery. He told me he wants to see me in four weeks for a follow up. If, at that 4 week followup, I have lost 10 lbs, then he will schedule me for surgery. I was told that we're looking at the first week of August, possibly!!!! I left with a to-do list that states which tests I have to have done, which medical records to have transferred, and how to pay the program fee. I have to get an upper GI, see the nutritionist and the psychologist, have a sleep study and have some blood drawn. All of those except for the sleep study can be done on the same day, I was told! Now I am just sitting here at home, waiting for the phone to ring with my appointment dates from his secretary. I am SO ready to go!!!!! :thumbup: Tomorrow is the lap band support group, and I am really debating going!

I had my first appointment with Dr. Robinson and his Assistant on Monday, and I am shocked! This process seems like it is going to fly by! Here's how it went: I was scheduled for 2:30 but got there at 2:00, so they sat me down with paperwork to fill out. It included all the expected questions, including lists of failed diets, weights throughout your life, co-morbidities,etc. It took about ten minutes, and then they took me in early. The Physician's Assistant (to be called P.A. from the point on) took my blood pressure with a cuff that actually fits me, and it turns out my blood pressure is pretty darn good for a 300 lb. girl! 126/74. They weighed and measured me. We discussed the potential risks of banding, why I wanted the band vs. bypass, etc. It was all pretty straight forward. Then doctor Robinson came in. Dr. Robinson is a man of very few words, but I am not going to him for emotional support. I am seeking him because he seems intelligent, honest and open. He told me right off the bat that I am going to need a boob lift and lower body life after surgery. He also implied that if I mention later on down the road that my boobs sagging cause back pain, and the if I start getting rashes under my extra skin, that I will be able to get both procedures covered by insurance. He then laid me down on the table, looked at my belly, and told me to loose 20-25 lbs. beore surgery. He told me he wants to see me in four weeks for a follow up. If, at that 4 week followup, I have lost 10 lbs, then he will schedule me for surgery. I was told that we're looking at the first week of August, possibly!!!! I left with a to-do list that states which tests I have to have done, which medical records to have transferred, and how to pay the program fee. I have to get an upper GI, see the nutritionist and the psychologist, have a sleep study and have some blood drawn. All of those except for the sleep study can be done on the same day, I was told! Now I am just sitting here at home, waiting for the phone to ring with my appointment dates from his secretary. I am SO ready to go!!!!! :crying: Tomorrow is the lap band support group, and I am really debating going!

Hi Dana, Thanks for your update...WOW - 10 pounds in a week...That's amazing. So, you didn't have a 2 week Optifast diet before surgery? Your profile pic looks fantastic...And you need to lose weight? Has it been a hard adjustment? With all the chewing and eating slow? I worry about things like being able to swallow a Tylenol when I have a headache or being so thirsty and not able to drink water (really chug it down)... I guess it just takes time to get used to. I'm at my all time high of 230 and would like to see 135.

Ok so I havent blogged in a while..... if I am honest with myself its because I was gaining a little weight..... I started solid food about 2 weeks ago and found that I could eat anything I wanted (except rice) and as much as I wanted. Needless to say Christmas was a treat!!! SO before I started solids I was at 246.6 and then I started eating and went up to 251 in 2 weeks....I guess it should be expected but it is still mentally hard to deal with...I got my 1st fill yesterday 12/29 ...3cc's (which my dr says it usually not enough) so I was back on my liquid diet for a day. I weighed this am and was back to 246.6 ....Just ate my 1st "meal" after my fill.... I had a grilled chicken sandwich from Chick Fil A... it went down easy (took about 10-12mins to eat it just to make sure). I dont really know how I feel right now...I can't tell if I am full to full or still hungry. I think that it is totally in my head, I think I am still hungry becuase I would normally have fries or coleslaw as a side and to not have anything but the chicken is a huge step for me. and no drink. I have cleareance to go back to the gym which I plan on going on Monday, and am looking forward to. I have to be firm and stay on a strict schedule it is so easy to say I dont want to go today. On a lighter note I got the x-box connect for Christmas and it is so much fun. Not to mention that it was a great workout!!! I worked up a sweat and my heart rate was up when I was done..guess I could fill in doing this when I don't feel like getting my stuff together to go to the gym

Friday, June 19, 2009 Sugery's Done, New Life's Begun Surgery went well. The Dr. fixed a hiatal hernia (common with overweight people) which should fix my GERD (gastroesophogeal reflux). That'll be one less pill right there. However, with laparoscopic surgery air gets put into the abdominal cavity. Every time I take a sip of liquid and I swallow some air goes into my stomach which pushes on the air outside the stomach which presses some nerve in the diaphram that sends referred pain to the shoulders. I should absorb that air in a few days. My stomach's a little sore, but so far, there are very few repercussions to me physically. I'm only allowed to drink clear liquids for the first 5-7 days, and believe me, that's all I can handle. I can't garden for a few weeks or take a bath or go swimming. There's a port under the skin that the Dr. will use to adjust my lap band (think inflatable doughnut.) He'll put a needle through that port to blow up the ring as my stomach shrinks and the band loosens. If I have complications, the band can be removed. I am quite mobile, I can walk as much as I want, I just can't do anything strenuous that might move the band out of place. I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. I was very at peace before the surgery that I was doing the right thing and that God was with me. I'm excited and scared about this new life but I know God is walking with me through it all.

Misty, I guess the best thing to tell you is that I weighed 326 on November 1st, 2008. I was banded on 11/19/08 and I now weigh 267 and I'm half way to my goal. The band is not a cure all and it does not do all of the work for you but it sure helps! Until my second fill I really didn't have a restriction and I thought maybe my band was screwed up or something. Now, after the second fill I'm just starting to feel the restriction. I've got rid of the weight by following the doctor's orders and did not eat like before even if the band does not restrict at first. I exercise at least an hour a day (I hate it too) but it is really paying off. So, hang in there and keep up the "I can do it attitude".

Hi I'm Carol. My surgery is scheduled for 12/19. I'm 85% excited, and 15% nervous. I'm not really nervous about the surgery itself, or my surgeon (Dr. Larson here in South FL). I'm nervous about the anesthesia and nausea. Everybody I've spoken to says I won't feel like eating after the operation, but confession time here: I'm afraid of being hungry. I won't be eating from midnight till the next day after the surgery. Like all of you who've had the procedure. But I hate being hungry, which is why I've not been successful on diets before. I am looking forward to eating right and not being as hungry after the surgery, though. I'm surprised at how many of my friends and acquaintences I've told are being supportive of my choice to do the surgery. I have a few friends who've questioned the wisdom of such a drastic step, but even though they've said have you tried ___ (the cookie diet, weight watchers, quick weight loss centers, etc)? I'm trying to remind myself that they are just looking out for my well being, and thankfully those people are still supportive, overall. There is one funny thing about the people who are surprised about the surgery: they are questioning why I'm doing it the week before Xmas. Now, I'm Jewish, so Xmas as a milestone date, or special celebration for me is not that much of a factor. My "xmas present" is that that's my last day of liquids. I'll be on soft solids for New Year's Eve, though but I don't have anything special planned at this point. I think I'll be able to cope for the one night. Then, I can start the year out eating healthy and losing weight! I like these ticker things I see on the forum and want to try to set one up for myself., so I'll sign off for now. I look forward to the support and to giving it when I have it to give. Right now I'm a sponge for it and I need to be a bit selfish in my life, so for a short time I may be a bit here, too. Can anybody think about a better word than selfish, though? Thanks for listening. Carol

I'm not sure what you are looking for but here is my tips lol. 1. Think of it as an investment. When my hubby and I calculated the cost of my weight watchers, diets and such I knew over 20 years the 18 grand for lapband would pay for itself. 2. I no longer go out to eat. If I do I eat a couple bites of hubby's or get an app. Major Major savings here. We would go out at least 3 nights a week and I went out for lunch every day. This alone save me approximately 240 a month in dinners and 150 in lunches. I used 7.50 per lunch and 20 bucks per dinner to come to an average. I know I spent more than that for sure. So that's 2880 a year. Just in going out my lapband will pay for itself in approx 6 and a quarter years. I also stopped getting my daily dunkin donut coffee and bagel.. which I didnt even calculate here. 3. I have a 2007 cadillac cts and spent at least double my lapband cost and it will probably only last me maybe 10 years.. this new body of mine will last me my whole life, I added years to me. I no longer have chest pains, shortness of breathe and I am HOT now lol. So my tips are realize that the costs out of pocket now will all work out. I actally think I am saving money by spending the money on lapband! I conviced my hubby of this so much he let me spend anothe 18 grand on a tummy tuck and breast lift with implants.. :Yawn:

Unfortunately, there is not going to be one set answer for all people - and even the "experts" argue about the best way to go about weightloss. So be suspect of anyone who claims to have all the magic answers - I'm not sure they exist. At least not in one composite body of knowledge. My suggestion is to do some www.google.com searches on the key words you're interested in: optimum weightloss nutrition, basal metabolism, etc. You will find a lot of conflicting info, so you'll have to decide what makes the most sense to you, or find someone you trust who "witnesses" for a certain way, etc. I am trying to keep my daily caloric intake at no less than my basal metabolism requirement, plus up to 200 calories more a day. I am losing, but not like you are looking to do - I have long plateaus. My average is good, but... I am not down 6-10 pounds at the end of each month. My way is working for me, but if I fixated on losing a minimum of 6 pounds each and every month I would be a very unhappy camper. Again - that's pretty much what my average is to date!! But these last six pounds have come off between March 28 and May 15, with lots of ups and downs in between.

Hey everyone. I had my initial meeting with the Dr. today. So far it went great! I can't believe it. I have 10 of the tests scheduled for the next few weeks, starting tomorrow morning. Even though the insurance won't cover it, I'm excited. By the way, mysherrijo, please tell me what you think. Is he going too fast? Should I be concerned. Please know that I value your opinion, but I will still go with my heart, so please be open and honest with me. *smile*

I am a frequent flyer and travel way too much. I flew 10 days after being banded and many flights since and have never noticed 1 iota of anything band related. Have a great trip.

I just found this & I haven't get the chance to try any of them yet but I thought they might help someone. pumpkin Protein shake This is a wonderfully decadent way to get in your protein! Spicy, creamy and icy-thick.…milkshakes never had it so good! 1/4 cup pumpkin puree 1 cup skim milk or soymilk 1 scoop vanilla Protein powder (such as Matrix Simply Vanilla) 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or 1/4 t. cinnamon, 1/8 t. cloves, 1/8 t. ginger) 2 tablespoons Splenda Granular 1/4 cup Cool Whip or NSA Vanilla yogurt 1 cup ice cubes Place pumpkin, milk, protein powder, spices, Splenda, cool whip or yogurt, and ice cubes in blender container; process until slushy. Makes one Meal Replacement serving. Per Serving: 230 Cal; 28 g Protein; 5 g Tot Fat; 13 g Carb; 1 g Fiber; 2 g Sugar; 115 mg Sodium Mocha Shake 1/4 cup coffee flavored 1 scoop Matrix Simply Vanilla protein powder 4 cubes ice Maui 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder (20 grams protein) ice cubes 1 fresh pineapple spear banana PROTEIN NOG 1 scoop Matrix Simply Vanilla protein powder 1 cup skim milk A one inch chunk of banana 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla Place all ingredients in blender and process until smooth. Banana/Peanut Butter Shake (12 grams protein) 8 ounces fat-free milk 1 tablespoon creamy Peanut Butter 1/4 - 1/2 banana Blend until smooth in blender. Orange Dreamsicle (28 grams protein) 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder (20 grams protein) 1 scoop (individual serving) sugar-free Sunrise Orange Crystal Light powder 8 ounces skim milk Alternatives: substitute 4 ounces milk; substitute 4 ounces yogurt for 4 ounces milk; add 1/2 tsp. orange zest to shake. Sunrise Smoothy 1 scoop vanilla protein powder banana (peeled) 1 carton Low Carb Vanilla Yogurt 1 tablespoon Splenda 4-5 frozen strawberries Mix in blender until smooth Cherry Vanilla 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 4-5 cherries Mix in blender until smooth Peach 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1 cup Crystal Lite peach tea 4-6 frozen peach slices 4 ice cubes Mix in blender until smooth Strawberry-Lemonade 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 4-5 frozen strawberries 4-5 ice cubes Mix in blender until smooth Cherry Vanilla Coke Float 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 4-5 cherries Mix in blender until smooth Apple Pie Frosty 1 1/2 scoops vanilla protein powder 1 apple, peeled, cored, and sliced (or 1/2 C no-sugar-added applesauce) 2 packets Splenda 1/2 t cinnamon 1/4 t nutmeg 3/4 C Water 8-10 ice cubes Blend thoroughly and drink up Butterscotch Pecan liquid Pie 2 scoops ProScore 100 vanilla 8 oz cold water 2 T sugar free butterscotch pudding mix 4-5 ice cubes 1/4 C pecans Blend protein powder, water and pudding mix. (The pudding mix thickens the liquid considerably). Add ice cubes and blend till ice slivers. Add pecans and blend again for a few seconds. Pour into nice huge parfait glass and enjoy. (about 300 calories). Cherry Vanilla Protein Shake 1 scoop vanilla powder 1/2 cup SF cherry yogurt 4 ice cubes splash water vanilla extract (to taste) cherry extract (to taste) Put all of it in a blender and hit liquify! Enjoy Choco Mint Shake 1 1/2 scoops HDT 5+1 chocolate protein powder 1 packet sugar free hot chocolate mix 1 teaspoon mint flavoring 1/2 cup of soy milk 1/2 cup of water 6 large ice cubes Put all ingredients into blender And mix to desired consistency. Serve cold. Chocolate Almond Shake 2 scoops ProScore 100 chocolate 1 cup of soy milk 2 T Sweet N Low chocolate syrup 1 t almond flavoring 1/4 cup of almonds 6-8 ice cubes Blend all ingredients, Except almonds and ice cubes, Then add nuts and cubes and blend again Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter De-Lite 3/4 c. cold water 1/4 c. Toasted Marshmallow s/f syrup 2 scoops PS IOO Chocolate Protein Powder 4 packets. equal 1/2 small banana 1T. low sugar Peanut Butter 1T. s/f White Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix Put everything in blender And whirl till smooth. Scrape down sides if necessary And whirl some more. Chocolate Banana smoothie 1/2 cup banana Fat-Free NutraSweet Sweetened Yogurt 1/2 cup Non-fat Milk 1/2 cup ripe banana peeled and sliced Dash of Vanilla 1 Scoop Chocolate Protein Powder of Choice Put all ingredients except ice in blender, Blend until smooth. Add ice and blend To give it a frozen smoothie consistency. Chocolate Coconut Shake 2 oz Coconut Milk 6 oz Cold Water 2 scoops Chocolate protein powder 1 tsp Chocolate or Banana Sugar-Free pudding Hand Shake well. Chocolate Covered Banana 1 scoop Chocolate Isopure 1/2 c 1% milk splash of sugar-free chocolate syrup 1/2 banana 4 maraschino cherries 2 handfuls ice Blend Chocolate Covered Cherry Shake 1 1/2 scoops HDT 5+1 chocolate protein powder 1 cup soy milk 2T Sweet N Low chocolate syrup 10-12 cherries - (no pits please) 8-10 ice cubes Put all ingredients into blender And mix to desired consistency Chocolate Frosty Shake 1 rounded scoop Optimum Nutrition Pro Complex Chocolate Protein Powder 1 rounded tsp. fat free sugar free French Vanilla International Coffee 1 rounded tsp. fat free Creamora (non-dairy coffee creamer powder) 10 ice cubes Use a blender to get a shake-like consistency Chocolate Fudge Shake 2 scoops ProScore 100 chocolate 2 T chocolate fudge sugar free pudding mix 8 oz water 5 large ice cubes, tiny silver spoon (optional) Blend ProScore, pudding and water, add ice cubes, Blend till crushed with ice slivers still un-melted, Pour into insulated cup (makes about 16 oz) And eat it with a tiny silver spoon. Chocolate OrangeSicle 1 1/2 scoops ProScore 100 chocolate 1/2 Scoop OrangeSicle protein powder 8 oz water Shake very well Chocolate Peanut Butter Death 2 scoops PS100 Chocolate Protein Powder 8 oz Cold Water 2 tsp Chocolate SF Pudding Mix 1 packets Splenda 1 Generous splash (probably 1 1/2 ounces) of SF DaVinci Peanut Butter Syrup 1 Generous splash (probably 1 1/2 ounces) of SF DaVinci Cookie Dough Syrup 1 Heaping Tablespoon (Daloop) of Fat Free Cool Whip Light 1 Heaping Teaspoon of Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter approx. 6 oz of crushed ice Mix until entirely smooth - pour - sit back and enjoy pure indulgence Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 1 tbs. peanut butter 1 cup skim milk 2 handfuls ice Blend thoroughly Chocolate Raspberry Shake 2 scoops ProScore 100 chocolate 8 oz water (or skim, lactaid or soy milk) sugar free raspberry syrup Blend and enjoy Chocolate Vanilla Swirl 1/2 scoop chocolate protein powder 1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder splash Vitamite splash water ice Blend thoroughly Chocolate-Banana Shake 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 1/2 banana 1 cup skim milk 2 handfuls ice Blend thoroughly. Hint: if you can't use a banana, Try banana extract...tastes good! Coco Loco 1 1/2 scoops 100%Whey Vanilla Protein powder 4 oz Vitamite 6 packets Splenda splash Luzianne Peach Mango Ice Tea flavoring 2 drops Coconut extract 2 drops Pineapple extract 5 ice cubes Blend and chop ice thoroughly Cookies & Cream Splash of Cookies & Cream coffee Splash of Vitamite Splash of water 1 tsp. Sugar Free DaVinci Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Syrup (optional) 1/3 scoop ProBlend 55 Mocha/cappuccino 1/3 scoop Pro V60 Chocolate Thunder 1/3 scoop Pro V60 Vanilla ice Blend Creamy Peach Melba 6-8 frozen peach slices 4-6 oz water 1 tbsp peach mango Luzianne Tea Flavor 1 tsp DaVinci Raspberry flavor 2 packets splenda 1 tbsp heavy cream 2 scoops Keto Peaches & Cream Protein Powder Blend peaches, Water, flavorings, & splenda until liquid. Add protein powder. Drizzle in cream last. Blend well. Donna's Delicious Protein Smoothie 6 to 8 oz sunrise orange crystal light (premade) 3 ice cubes 3 frozen raspberries 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder Optional: tablespoon of light cool whip Mix crystal light with the ice cubes and frozen raspberries, Add the scoop of vanilla protein powder And mix only for a few seconds (mixing the protein too much causes it to foam) Double Chocolate Fudge ½ cup skim milk 1 packet, no sugar added hot cocoa mix 1 scoop Chocolate protein powder 4 ice cubes or 1 cup crushed ice Mix in blender. Vanilla 1 scoop of Vanilla HDT 5+1 vanilla 1 cup of soy milk 4-6 large ice cubes Put all ingredients into blender and mix to desired consistency. Serve cold. Elvis IS IN MY KITCHEN RIGHT NOW making a PB & J Milkshake 2 scoops ProScore Vanilla Protein Powder 1 Tbsp. vanilla sugar-free instant pudding 8 oz cold water 1 Tbsp or to taste berry, raspberry or peach (or other) sugar-free syrup 3-5 ice cubes 1 Tbsp. crunchy peanut butter Combine the protein powder, Pudding, and sugar-free syrup into blender And blend for 30 seconds. Add 3-5 ice cubes, blend until ice slivers, Add crunchy peanut butter, Blend for a few seconds. Pour into 16 oz glass. Eat with a small silver spoon, savoring each spoonful. Frappachino 1 tbs. instant coffee or a splash of cold coffee 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder 2 handfuls ice 1/2 cup skim milk blend thoroughly. Frappucchino On-the-Go 1/2 can Blue Luna light _mocha (or Starbuck's light Frappachino brand) 1 scoop chocolate protein powder Shake in Blue Luna can and pour over ice. Fruit Freeze cup skim milk (substitute water if you don't do milk) 1 scoop unflavored protein powder 5 strawberries, frozen, no added sugar 2 peaches, frozen, no added sugar cup pineapple, canned, (or Lite syrup) 4 ice cubes or 1 cup crushed ice) Mix in blender. Fruit Smoothie 4 fresh strawberries frozen and sliced 1/2 fresh banana frozen and sliced 1 scoop Vanilla or strawberry protein powder of choice Put all ingredients except ice in blender And blend until smooth. Add ice and blend until frozen smoothie consistency. Fudgesicle 1 1/2 scoops chocolate protein powder 12 oz cold water 10 packets splenda 1 sugar free fudgesicle 1/2 oz DaVinci sugar free vanilla syrup 6 ice cubes put all ingredients except protein into blender- blend on high until no more pings from ice on blades- turn down blender until top of mixture is moving but not splashing-add protein-replace cover and whirl- but not too high or it will puff up to about 40 oz! Good Morning Smoothie 1 small banana 3/4 cup skim milk 1/2 cup non-fat sugar free strawberry yogurt 1/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice 1 scoop vanilla protein powder of choice Put all ingredients except ice in blender and blend until smooth. Add ice and blend until frozen fruit smoothie consistency. Iced Mocha Latte 2 scoops ProScore 100 chocolate, leftover cold coffee (decaf Hazelnut) 1 T fat free sugar free vanilla pudding mix a splash of sugar free hazelnut coffee syrup and a few ice cubes Blend Light and Dark Symphony 1 scoop ProBlend 55 Mocha Cappuccino splash coffee splash water ice Blend thoroughly for light symphony; for dark symphony add 1 tbs. white chocolate SF syrup and blend Luscious Pina Colada 2 scoops ProScore 100 vanilla 2 T vanilla sugar free pudding mix dash of coconut flavoring dash of pineapple flavoring ice Blend and enjoy Mango Morning Smoothie Juice of 1/2 of a fresh lime 2oz cold water meat of 1 mango small piece fresh ginger 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract) 7-8 ice cubes 2 scoops ProScore Vanilla Blend lime juice, cold water, meat of mango, ginger and vanilla extract until smooth. When blended, add 7-8 ice cubes, one at a time until blended. Add ProScore Vanilla protein powder one scoop at a time while blender is still moving. You can substitute soy milk instead of water and soy ice cubes instead of plain ice, but you will need to watch calories with those substitutions. Ginger & Cinnamon 2 scoops ProScore 100 Chocolate a few good sprinkles of cinnamon small piece FRESH ginger 6-8 ice cubes Blend on low, then on high. Add about 6-8 ice cubes, one at a time chuck each one HARD into the blender while blending. Blend until creamy. Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Shake 1 1/2 scoop GNC 100% Whey Vanilla Protein Powder 4-5 packets of Splenda 1 capful DaVinci's Sugar-Free Vanilla Syrup 5 oz Vitamite lots of ice cubes Blend syrup, Splenda, and Vitamite together. Add protein powder; blend until mixed. Add Ice and blend until chopped well. Orange & Cream Shake 8 ounces (or less if you wish) Stewart's Diet Orange & Cream Soda splash Vitamite 1 scoop ProV60 Vanilla Cream protein ice blend extra thoroughly to get rid of all of the carbonation Orange Banana Smoothie 1/2 cup cold water 1/2 cup pulp free OJ 1/2 banana sliced 1 rounded scoop Keto Shake Orange Creme protein powder 1 rounded scoop Keto Shake Banana Creme protein powder 1 cup ice Blend all ingredients except ice until smooth. Add ice, blend until smoothie consistency. Orange Julius 8 oz non-fat plain yogurt 1 can (6 oz) Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate 2 1/2 cup skim milk 1 Tsp vanilla extract 2 scoops Protein Powder of your choice Put ingredients in blender, blend until smooth, fruit smoothie consistency. Orange Julius Got Nothing On Us Smoothie 2 Scoops ProScore 100 vanilla 6 oz water 1 T sugar free vanilla pudding mix 1/4 c real orange juice (preferably hand squeezed with pulp, or from store with pulp) 1 t good vanilla flavoring 3-4 ice cubes Blend all ingredients except ice cubes. Cold water will cause pudding mix to thicken. Add ice cubes and blend till ice slivers. Pour into tall glass and use straw to sip, dainty, a little at a time, really taste it. Don't guzzle (grin) Peach Creamsicle 6 oz Crystal Lite Peach Tea 2 tablespoon SF Instant Vanilla Pudding 1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder 6 packets Splenda ice cubes Blend thoroughly Peach and Strawberry Yummy 3 slices frozen peaches (or 1/2 frozen banana) 3 good sized frozen strawberries 1/4 - 1/2 cup water 1 packets Splenda 1 rounded Vanilla protein powder Blend Pina Colada Smoothie 8oz can refrigerated crushed pineapple in natural unsweetened juices 1 Tsp coconut flavoring 1/2 cup crushed ice 1 packet artificial sweetener 1 scoop vanilla protein powder of choice Combine in blender and blend for 2 minutes on high Pineapple Vanilla Ginger Shake 1/2 SMALL COLD pineapple enough cold water to blend small piece of fresh ginger 5-6 ice cubes 2 scoops ProScore 100 Vanilla Protein Powder cinnamon and fresh mint In a blender pineapple, enough COLD water to blend, and ginger. Blend until smooth. Add 5-6 ice cubes, 1 piece at a time and blend until creamy. Add 2 scoops of ProScore 100 Vanilla while blender is in motion (OK to substitute different brand). Pour into a brandy glass, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top and add a piece of fresh mint. Snicker splash Snicker doodle coffee splash Vitamite splash water 1 scoop chocolate protein powder ice Blend thoroughly. Don't have Snicker doodle coffee? Substitute regular coffee, SF hazelnut syrup and the SF cinnamon sugar. This one is excellent!!!! Snickers Candy Bar splash chocolate caramel coffee splash Vitamite splash water 1 tsp peanut butter or SF peanut butter syrup chocolate protein powder ice Blend thoroughly. Don't have chocolate caramel coffee? SF caramel syrup, SF chocolate syrup (optional) if you want even more of a chocolaty taste. Strawberry Berry Berry 1 scoop of Strawberry Pro Blend 55 4 strawberries (frozen or fresh) 1/4 cup of blueberries 1 cup of cranberry juice 1 cup ice or crushed ice Put all ingredients into blender and mix to desired consistency. Serve cold. Strawberry Chocolate Milk 2 Scoops Strawberry Carb Solutions Carnation Fat Free Hot Cocoa 14 ounces water Mix in blender with ice for a "shake" or shake inshaker for a more milky consistency Strawberry for Protein Dummies 10 frozen strawberrys 1/2 small banana 1 scoop (23g) Biochem's Ultimate LO Carb Whey (Natural Flavor) 8 oz Water 1/3 cup Carnation Nonfat Dry Milk Splenda to taste *Note: I found the protein by going to a local health food store and asking for a whey protein with the LEAST taste and that mixed easily into water* Tropical Breakfast Smoothie 1 cup fresh cut-up strawberries 8 oz pineapple chunks in natural juice 1 fresh banana sliced 1/2 cup cholesterol free egg product 1 scoop vanilla protein powder of choice Put all ingredients except ice in blender, blend until smooth, add ice and blend to frozen smoothie consistency. This recipe yields more than one serving Two Berry Delight 1 cup frozen or fresh strawberries 1/2 cup raspberries 1/2 cup water 1 cup ice 1 packet of sweetener 1/2 cup milk 1 cup orange juice Vitamins or protein powder Put all ingredients except ice in blender and blend until smooth. Add ice and blend to give it a frozen smoothie consistency Vanilla Butterscotch 8 oz cold water 2 scoops vanilla ProScore 1T butterscotch sugar-free pudding 4 ice cubes 1 T vanilla sugar free pudding 4-5 ice cubes blend it all, and let it set up a little, and it tastes all custardy. Vanilla Chai Vanilla protein powder 8 oz iced Chai tea (made from tea bag and refrigerated) dash of cinnamon little Splenda splash of soy milk Blend and enjoy Vanilla Frosty 1 1/2 scoops HDT 5+1 vanilla protein powder 1/2 to 1 container Dannon Fit and Light yogurt (any flavor) 3/4 c water or soy milk 10-12 ice cubes Blend in blender until the consistency of a Wendy's frosty Vanilla PB Fruity 2 scoops ProScore 100 vanilla 1 T sugar free vanilla pudding mix 8 oz water, 1T or to taste berry or raspberry or peach or other sugar-free syrup (0 calories) 3-5 ice cubes 2 t peanut butter-crunchy kind Blend before adding peanut butter, add peanut butter and blend again till ice slivers. Note: (if you put in too many ice cubes, it will dilute the peanutty taste)... Vanilla Spice Freeze 2 scoops ProScore 100 vanilla 2 T vanilla Sugar Free pudding mix pinch of cinnamon Blend, store in freezer until it gets thick. Yummmmm Vanilla vanilla citrus 2 oz of refrigerated water 1/4 lime, (including rind) cut up in about 4-6 pieces Piece of fresh ginger to taste About 1/2 t. vanilla Blend. 45 Chuck in about 6 cubes, one at a time, till dissolved, add 2 scoops of ProScore 100 Vanilla, swirl in a little cinnamon, while still blending. Add all except ice, ProScore and cinnamon. Blend. Add remaining ingredients and blend again. White Chocolate Mouse Mocha Frappachino splash Vitamite splash water 1 scoop PB55 Mocha Frappachino 1/2 tsp. SF Jell-O White Chocolate Mouse Pudding handful of ice Blend thoroughly Peanut Brittle Protein Shake 2 scoops vanilla protein powder 2 tbsp sugar-free instant butterscotch pudding mix (dry) 1 tbsp natural peanut butter (smooth or chunky) 8 oz. water (or low-fat milk) 3-6 ice cubes Add all ingredients to blender, whip, and serve. I like to use chunky peanut peanut butter and add it last so that it it stays chunky (like peanut brittle) but it tastes just as good with a smoother consistency. Cinnamon Roll Protein Shake 2 scoops vanilla protein powder 1 tbsp sugar-free instant vanilla pudding 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp imitation vanilla (or 1/4 tsp extract) 8 oz. water (or low-fat milk) 3 ice cubes Add all ingredients to blender, whip, and serve. The Hulk Protein Shake 2 scoops vanilla protein 1 tbsp sugar-free pistachio pudding mix 1 mint leaf or a few drops peppermint extract (optional) 8 oz. cold water (or low-fat milk) 3-5 ice cubes Add all ingredients to blender, blend, and pour into cup. This tastes great without the mint so don't worry if you don't have it around. Instant Breakfast 1/2 cup milk skim 1 package of carnation instant breakfast 1 scoop of protein 4 ice cubes Blend Strawberry Instant Breakfast 1cup skim milk 1 packet of instant breakfast 1 scoop protein 1/2 cup frozen strawberries blend 45 seconds Mocha Instant Breakfast SF Carnation Instant Breakfast 2c. NF low carb milk 1 tsp decaf coffee 1/8 tsp cinnamon 1/2 scoop protein powder Mix until smooth This gives you 38g of protein! Chocolate Fudge Shake 2 scoops ProScore 100 chocolate 2 T chocolate fudge sugar free pudding mix 8 oz water 5 large ice cubes, tiny silver spoon (optional) Blend ProScore, pudding and water, add ice cubes, Blend till crushed with ice slivers still un-melted, Pour into insulated cup (makes about 16 oz) And eat it with a tiny silver spoon. Berry Berry Smoothy 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1 cup skim milk (or 1% milk) 1 cup frozen fruit medley Mix in blender until smooth Banana Mocca 8 oz milk (carb countdown, 2%, or whatever you use) 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1/2 banana 1 tbsp. instant coffee Ice Blend Chocolate-Banana-Coffee Shake 1/2 tsp coffee (I dont like coffee) 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup water 1 scoop chocolate protein 1/2 banana then I hit blend... Lemon Strawberry Yogurt Smoothie 1 cup nonfat vanilla yogurt 1 scoop unflavored protein powder 1 1/2 cup strawberries 1/2 cup crushed ice 1/2 tsp. lemon zest Combine all in blender until smooth. Colossal Cranberry Smoothie Serves: 2 1 1/2 cups lite Cran-Raspberry Juice 2 cups frozen mixed berries 1 1/2 cups nonfat vanilla frozen yogurt 2 scoops unflavored protein powder Put all ingredients into blender and blend until smooth Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie 8 oz skim milk 1/3 small banana 1 tbsp natural peanut butter 2 packets of splenda 5 ice cubes 1 scoop unflavored protein powder (Could use chocolate if you wanted a choco banana PB smoothie) In blender combine milk, banana, peanut butter and sweet n' low. Add ice cubes and pulse. Double Berry Smoothie 1 cup vanilla or plain low-fat yogurt 1 ripe banana, peeled and broken into pieces 1/4 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen 1/4 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen 1 scoop unflavored or vanilla protein powder Chocolate Peanut Butter Supreme: (Lean Mass Gain) 12 oz. water 4 ice cubes 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter 2 scoops chocolate protein powder Mocha Shake: (Lean Mass Gain) 6 oz. water 4 ice cubes 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 6 oz.. coffee* 2 scoops chocolate protein powder Frozen Chocolate Banana (Lean Mass Gain) 12 oz. Water 4 to 5 ice cubes 1 banana 1 tablespoon heavy cream 2 scoops chocolate protein powder German Chocolate (Lean Mass Gain) 12 oz. water 4 ice cubes 1 tablespoon cream of coconut 2 scoops chocolate protein powder Pineapple Blast: (Lean Mass Gain Fat Burning and off Season) 4 ice cubes 12 oz. water 2 scoops vanilla protein powder 1/2 cup pineapple chunks Pina Colada Passion (Lean Mass Gain Fat Burning and Off Season) 12 oz. water 4 ice cubes 3 scoops vanilla protein powder 1/3 cup Pineapple chunks 2 tsp. Coconut extract Ultra Oatmeal: (mix ingredients after cooking) (Lean Mass Gain Fat Burning and Off Season) 1 serving cooked plain oatmeal (1/2 cup precooked) 1 scoops vanilla protein powder Chocolate strawberries shake 1 to 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water 4 to 6 ice cubes 8 strawberries Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Chocolate Banana Shake 1 to 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water 4 to 6 ice cubes 1 banana Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Chocolate Strawberry Blast 1 to 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water 4 to 6 ice cubes 8 strawberries Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Vanilla Banana Creamy 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water or whole (or 2%) milk 6 ice cubes 1 banana Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Rasberry Chocolate Thick 1 to 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of whole (or 2%) milk 6 ice cubes 8 rasberries Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Drink or eat with a spoon! Banana Cheerio Quickfast Great for a super fast morning meal 1 to 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water 4 to 6 ice cubes 1 banana 3/4 cup cup or original cheerios Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Orange Creamsicle 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water 4 to 6 ice cubes 1 to 2 peeled oranges Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Blueberry Blaster 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder 6 to 8 ounces of water 4 to 6 ice cubes 20-30 blueberries Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute. Pour into a tall glass. Enjoy! Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease a custard cup and break the egg into it, leaving the yolk intact. Pour half & half over the egg until just the top of the yolk is peeking through. Dot with butter and sprinkle shredded cheese and bacon on top. Season with salt and pepper. Place custard cup on a cookie sheet and bake for 12-18 minutes, depending on how you like your eggs. Zucchini Boats Anyone with a summer garden has a few small tender zucchini to spare. This is a great looking dish; and a healthy and delicious meal when served with a tossed salad of baby greens, olives, artichoke hearts, grape tomatoes, and red onion, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This dish also works with small thin japanese eggplant. WLS serving, 1 zucchini boat: Calories 154, fat 6 gr, carbs 4 gr, protein 18 gr Makes 8 boats, 2 per regular serving 4 small zucchini, about 5-7 inches each 2 teaspoon olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 16 ounces Italian turkey sausage, casings removed 1 cup ricotta cheese 1 cup marinara sauce (I use Barilla Marinara or Rustica Sweet Peppers and Garlic) Parmesan cheese Assemble boats by spreading some of the ricotta in the hollow of each prepared zucchini, fill with 1/8th of the cooked meat and top with a little sauce. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese. Broil 5-7 minutes, until boats are heated through and cheese is lightly browned. Chocolate Monkey 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein 1/2 a banana Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Strawberry Banana Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein 1/2 banana 3 whole frozen strawberries Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Banana Split 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/2 banana 1/4 cup chopped pineapple 2 frozen strawberries Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Blueberry Bonanza Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/2 cup frozen or fresh blueberries Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Chocolate Covered Cherry 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein 10-12 frozen or fresh cherries optional: 1 tsp. of SF Cherry Torani Syrup or a drop of cherry extract Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Silky Latte 4 oz. Silk brand Mocha soy milk 4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Silky Mocha 4 oz. Silk brand Mocha soy milk 4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Smoothie 4 oz. Vitasoy Peppermint Chocolate soy milk 4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Pumpkin Spice Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/4 cup canned pumpkin (chilled) Dash of pumpkin pie spice Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Berry Berry Good Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/2 cup frozen or fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Mochachinno 8 oz. cold coffee 1 scoop chocolate protein 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Egg Nog Protein Shake 4 oz. Silk Nog soy milk 4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein Dash of nutmeg Place liquid in the blender first, then powder. Blend on low then high till well blended. Dash of nutmeg on top. Pina Colada 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/4 cup pineapple 1 Tbs. SF Coconut Torani Syrup (I've also used 2 T. of unsweetened coconut from the health food store or Baker's catalog) Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Peanut Butter Cup 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 1 Tbs. peanut butter (smooth or chunky) 2-3 ice cubes Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Cherry Vanilla Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein 5-6 maraschino cherries 1 Tbs. SF French Vanilla Torani Syrup Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Chocolate Caramel Protein Shake 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 1 Tbs. SF Caramel Torani Syrup 3 Ice Cubes Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Blueberry Banana Protein Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein 1/2 cup frozen blueberries 1/2 banana Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Strawberry Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein 3-4 Frozen Whole Strawberries Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Lemon Meringue Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1 T. SF Jello Lemon Pudding Powder 2 Ice Cubes Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Green Giant 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1 T. SF Jello Pistachio Pudding Powder 2 Ice Cubes Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Butterscotch Shake 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1 T. SF Jello Butterscotch Pudding Powder 2 Ice Cubes Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Strawberry Cheesecake Shake 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1 T. SF Jello Cheesecake Pudding Powder 3-4 Frozen or Fresh Strawberries Place water in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Vanilla Spice Protein Shake 4 oz. Silk Spice soy milk 4 oz. water 1 scoop vanilla protein powder Dash Cinnamon Dash Nutmeg 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Chocolate Almond Protein Smoothie 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 4 oz. water 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 1 T. Almond Butter 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Mango Madness Protein Smoothie 4 oz. water 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1/2 cup fresh or frozen mango chunks 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Banana Joe Protein Shake 4 oz. water 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1/2 banana 1/2 shot of espresso or 1/4 cup fresh coffee or 1 tsp instant coffee 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Carrot Cake Protein Shake 4 oz. water 4 oz. Silk Spice soy milk (if you use Vanilla or Plain Milk add more cinnamon and nutmeg) 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1/2 cup frozen sliced carrots 1 Tablespoon Cream Cheese Dash Cinnamon Dash Nutmeg Place liquids in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Mango Banana Protein Lassi 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 4 oz. water 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 1 Tbs. SF Vanilla Torani Syrup 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1/2 Banana (fresh or frozen) 1/2 cup fresh or frozen mango chunks 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Banana Protein Smoothie 4 oz. water 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1/2 Banana (fresh or frozen) Dash Cinnamon Dash Nutmeg 2-3 Ice Cubes 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Mocha Banana Joe Protein Shake 4 oz. water 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 1 scoop Chocolate protein powder 1/2 banana 1 tsp [ame="instant espresso powder[/ame] 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Mocha Joe Protein Shake 4 oz. water 4 oz. vanilla soy milk 1 scoop Chocolate protein powder 1 tsp instant espresso powder 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Peach Cobbler Protein Shake 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/4 cup frozen sliced peaches dash cinnamon dash nutmeg 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended Mango Banana Protein Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/4 cup frozen mango chunks 1/2 a banana 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Gingersnap Protein Smoothie 8 oz. water or 4 oz. soy milk/4 oz. water 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder 1/2-3/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1 Tablespoon Starbuck's SF Cinnamon Dolce Syrup dash of cinnamon 2-3 ice cubes Place liquid in the blender first, then powder, then additions. Blend on low then high till well blended. Basic Instructions: 1 scoop of protein powder, 4-6 ounces of water, natural low sugar juice or skim milk. These drinks are excellent by themselves or when blended at low speed for 1 to 3 minutes with 4-8 ice cubes or the equivalent amount of crushed ice. Vanilla Blush 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. water 1/2 TBL Carob Powder Pinch Ground Cinnamon 4 - 8 ice cubes Iced Expresso 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. water 1 1/2 TBL instant Expresso Coffee 4 - 8 ice cubes Apple Pie 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 4 oz. Apple Juice & 4 oz. water 1 graham cracker (4 sm squares) 4 - 8 ice cubes Double Apple 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 4 oz. Apple Juice & 4 oz. water 1/2 Apple, chopped or sliced 4 - 8 ice cubes Orange Creamsicle 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. Orange Juice 4 - 8 ice cubes Orange Monkey 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. Orange Juice 1/2 banana 4 - 8 ice cubes Lemon Squeeze 4 scoops Vanilla Protein powder 3 oz. Lemon Juice & 5 oz. water 1 TBL Honey 4 - 8 ice cubes Pink Possibility 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. Pink Grapefruit Juice 4 - 8 ice cubes Tangy Tangerine 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 1/2 cup Tangerine Non-Fat Yogurt Fresh or canned Tangerines 4 - 8 ice cubes Strawberry Supreme 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. water 1 cup frozen Strawberries 4 - 8 ice cubes Rapsi Rumble 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 4 oz. Orange/Pineapple Juice 4 oz. water 1/4 cup frozen Raspberries 1/2 Kiwi 4 - 8 ice cubes Creamy Cranberry 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. Cranberry Juice 1/2 cup Vanilla Non-Fat Yogurt 4 - 8 ice cubes Cran-Strawberry 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 4 oz. Cranberry Juice 4 oz. water 1/4 cup frozen Raspberries 1/4 cup frozen Strawberries 4 - 8 ice cubes Berry-Berry 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. water 1 cup fresh or frozen Mixed Berries 4 - 8 ice cubes Peach Paradise 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. water 1 Peach, chopped or sliced 1/2 Banana 4 - 8 ice cubes Hawaiian Holiday 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. Pineapple Juice 4 or 5 frozen Strawberries 1/2 Banana 4 drops Coconut Extract 4 - 8 ice cubes Papaya Pizzazz 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 8 oz. Papaya Juice 1/2 Peach, chopped or sliced 1/2 Banana 4 - 8 ice cubes Mango Mambo 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 4 oz. Pineapple Juice 4 oz. water 1/2 cup Passionfruit Mango 1/2 Peach, chopped or sliced 4 - 8 ice cubes Delight 1 scoop Vanilla Protein powder 1/2 Banana 4 - 8 ice cubes Chocolate Banana 1 scoop Chocolate Protein powder 4 - 8 oz. Skim Milk 1/2 Banana 4 - 8 ice cubes Chocolate Truffle 1 scoop Chocolate Protein powder 8 oz. Cranberry Juice 4 - 8 ice cubes Chocolate Almond Oasis 1 scoop Chocolate Protein powder 8 oz. water 1/2 Banana 4 drops Almond Extract 4 - 8 ice cubes Ice Blended Mocha 1 scoop Chocolate Protein powder 8 oz. water 1 1/2 TBL instant Coffee 4 - 8 ice cubes Blended Mint Mocha 1 scoop Chocolate Protein powder 8 oz. water 3 drops Mint Extract 1 1/2 TBL instant Coffee 4 - 8 ice cubes Black Forest 1 scoop Chocolate Protein powder 8 oz. water 5 - 10 frozen Strawberries 4 - 8 ice cubes Protein Balls Recipe 1 cup Peanut Butter (I use no-sugar-added Peter Pan) 1 cup rolled oatmeal -- not the instant stuff 1 cup protein powder (I use Matrix Chocolate, but you can use other flavors) 5 packets Splenda Warm the peanut butter in microwave about 30-40 seconds -- it melts it and makes mixing in the other ingredients much easier. Add the oatmeal, protein powder, and Splenda and mix well. (If needed, you can add a little bit of water to make it easier to mix) Roll into walnut sized balls, refrigerate. Store in fridge in zip-lock baggies. This recipe makes 20-24 balls. CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER SMOOTHIE (All stages except clear liquids) 12 ounces of water 12 ice cubes 1 scoop of chocolate coconut protein delite and 1 teaspoon of peanutbutter JIF Blended well in blender. ~~~~ BANANA NOG (All stages except clear liquids) 1 scoop vanilla protien powder 1 cup skim milk A one inch chunk of banana 1/8 tsp nutmeg 1/2 tsp vanilla Whiz up in a blender until smooth. ~~~~ nectar PROTEIN COCKTAIL (All stages) Makes 64 ounces of drink mix Serving Size 12 ounces, calories 120, protein 18g, carbs 0, fat 0 1 tub Crystal Light 4 scoops Nectar, fruit juice flavored whey isolate Prepare the Crystal Light in a plastic pitcher using 64 ounces of water, or to your taste. Using a silicon whisk or large spoon, blend in 3-4 scoops of Nectar. Keep chilled and consume within 24 hours of preparation to ensure freshness. Stir before pouring as some settling occurs. Great flavor combinations include: Crystal Light Fruit Punch and Nectar Twisted Cherry Crystal Light Sunrise Orange and Nectar Fuzzy Navel Crystal Light Pineapple Orange and Nectar Fuzzy Navel or Caribbean Cooler Crystal Light Peach Tea and Nectar Lemon Tea Crystal Light Raspberry Lemonade and Nectar Roadside Lemonade, Strawberry Kiwi or Twisted Cherry Crystal Light Pineapple Orange and IsoFruit Delite Pineapple Lipton SF Green Tea Honey Lemon and IsoFruit Delite Apple Pumpkin Protein Shake (All stages except clear liquids) 1/4 c. pumpkin puree, unsweetened 2 T. Splenda Granular pinch of salt 1/8 t. cinnamon 1/8 t. ginger scant 1/8 t. cloves OR 1/2 t. pumpkin pie spice instead of other seperate spices 1 cup milk or soymilk 1 scoop Matrix Vanilla pro powder 1/4 cup frozen Cool Whip or NSA Vanilla Ice Cream 1 - 1 1/2 cups ice Throw all ingredients into blender and whiz up. Pour into a tall glass and drizzle with Caramel Sauce, if desired. (Cinnamon Bliss is fab!!) HOT COCOA (All stages except clear liquids) 1 tablespoon Splenda 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa 2 tablespoons dried milk powder 8 ounces non-fat milk Dash salt Few drops good quality vanilla Blend Splenda, unsweetened cocoa, dried milk powder and salt in large mug. Blend in milk, stirring until dissolved. Microwave 1 minute on high or until hot. Can also heat in saucepan on stove. (13 grams of protein) BUTTERCREME TOFFEE ICED VANILLA LATTE (All stages except clear liquids) 2-3oz crushed ice 4oz Mice Milk Vanilla - 9g 2-3oz water 1/2 packet Big Train Vanilla Latte mix - 1g 1/2 scoop Elite Buttercreme Toffee flavor- 11g Dump it all in a Magic Bullet or blender and blend away! Add a blob of SF Cool Whip or RediWhip if desired. This is really good! It's sweet, but not super-sweet PINA COLADA SHAKE (All stages except clear liquids) 1 container FAGE 2% yogurt 8 oz skim milk (could be done with water, I suppose) 1 scoop Isofruit Pineapple 1 oz s/f Coconut syrup 6 ice cubes Process in blender or bullet. Makes a 16 oz shake with 46g of protein CHOCOLATE MILKSHAKE (All stages except clear liquids) Frozen Vanilla Yogurt Scoop of Chocolate Coconut Protein Powder 1" brownie (BE Low Carb Brownies, i freeze in 1" squares) Put in Blender with just enough vanilla soymilk to blend. CARAMEL HAZELNUT SHAKE (All stages except clear liquids) 2 scoops vanilla Zero-Carb Isopure 1 c. ff Lactaid Milk 3 T. Coffee Mate sf Hazelnut non-dairy creamer 1 oz. sf Torani Caramel syrup Ice (I use an entire tray) Add everything in blender but ice and blend together to combine. Add ice cubes one by one to create consistency you desire. Calories: 335 Protein: 59 Carbs: 16 Fat: 3 Notes: I like using the sugar-free and fat-free Coffee Mate creamers, but I often have a problem in which the amount needed to solicit the flavor I want is too rich for my tummy. CHOCOLATE CARAMEL BROWNIE SHAKE (All stages except clear liquids) 2 scoops PD Alpine Chocolate 1 cup ff Lactaid milk 1 shot Torani sf caramel syrup 4 Joseph's sf brownie bites Ice cubes PROTEIN CHAI TEA (All stages except clear liquids) Mixed 1 scoop Elite Vanilla 1 dash cinnamon 2 teaspoons Chai tea mix 8oz water STRAWBERRY VANILLA SHAKE (All stages except clear liquids) 1 scoop Elite vanilla powder 1 cup low-carb milk 1 cup ice 3 strawberries CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BANANA (All stages except clear liquids) 2 scoops Whey Gourmet Choc peanut butter powder 1 cup water 4-6 ice cubes 1/2 banana GINGERBREAD (All stages except clear liquids) Vanilla Mice Milk DaVinci Gingerbread syrup Nutmeg Poured over ice. RASPBERRY BANANA SMOOTHIE (All stages except clear liquids) 5 oz mice milk 8 oz cold water 1/2 small banana 1 1/2 scoop Whey Gourmet Raspberry Equal or splenda to taste 4 or 5 ice cubes Mix this all up. If you can stand to wait, then put it in the freezer for a bit and let it get even colder and slushier BANANA CREAM PIE (All stages except clear liquids) 2 scoops Isopure Zero Carb powder 1 tbs Banana syrup - Divinci 1 tbs Coconut - Divinci CARAMEL PEANUT BUTTER (All stages except clear liquids) 2 scoops vanilia powder 1 tbs Peanut Butter syrup - Divinci 1 tbs Carmel syrup - Divinci. PEACH MELBA SMOOTHIE (All stages except clear liquids) 1 scoop Raspberry Whey Gourmet Protein Powder 6 ounces Kroger Carbmaster Yogurt 4-5 slices frozen, unsweetened peaches water and ice Blend all ingredients until thick and creamy. Stats: Calories 243, Protein 36grams, Fat 5grams, Carbs 16grams SNICKERS Protein Drink 1/2 carton Vanilla Micellar Milk* 1 tablespoons sf chocolate sauce 1 tablespoons sf caramel sauce 2 pumps sf hazelnut syrup 1-3 shots (3-4 ounces) espresso Heat Milk until very hot, but not boiling. Add flavorings to taste (my measurements are just a guideline and I always add the espresso shots. You may not need as much flavoring if not using coffee Cinnamon Protein Shake 2 scoops whey gourmet Vanilla protein powder 1 tbsp sugar-free instant vanilla pudding 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp imitation vanilla (or 1/4 tsp extract) 1 packet artificial sweetener a few dashes butter-flavor extract 8 oz. water (or low-fat milk) 3 ice cubes

Hi everyone, I am wondering what is required after insurance is approved? I saw my surgeon on July 9th, I was cleared by my PCP 7/8, nutritionist on 7/10 and the psychiatrist on 7/17. Everything was sent to BCBS on 7/22 and I have been calling them every day since for status updates…..pending. I meet all the requirements since my BMI is > 40 no supervised diet period, so I am confident I will be approved. I’m just wondering what else I will have to do before I can have my surgery? I know I will have to see the surgeon again, probable some blood work and I have been avoiding sugar like it is a plague (to shrink my liver). I’m concerned because I have to travel for work out of town for 2 weeks in September, home for 1 week and then the whole month of October. I will not be back in town for 30 days in October. I am afraid I will be approved but will not be able to have the surgery in time to recover before I have to leave , if that is the case I will not be able to get my band until November

Hi, my name is Beth and I am 30years old, married to an amazing man and have 2 beautiful little girls. I have always been overweight and have tried every diet out there. In 2011 I lost 110lbs but have gained about 75lbs back since the birth of my second daughter in February 2013. I made the decision to have the bypass in September 2013 and between being diagnosed with hypothyroidism, pcos and trying to get all the medications regulated it has been more than difficult to lose the pre-surgery weight. I've finally got be my thyroid leveled and the pcos under control and have managed to lose 10 of the 16lbs I need to lose in order to be scheduled for my surgery. I am nervous and excited about this chapter in my life but know it will only help me be the best person I can be for my family!

Okay guys...... Just waking up. Ive showered only about 10-15 minutes before I leave. I woke up before my alarm clock (4:30 am). I woke up because my heart was pounding, I must having been thinking about the surgery in my sleep and or having an unconscious anxiety attack. Wow, that has never happened to me before, I almost felt asi f I were running a marathon and woke up right when I passed the finish line. Anyway, I know that is my mind/nerves. I said my prayers last night and will say them again this morning. The next time I post-----I will be sleeved. Thanks for your prayers and help.

I went to a "reunion" of sorts - people who I worked with on a very big project about 15-18 years ago. I was a "young woman" in my 30s then, but due to obesity aged beyond my years. Now, we are all a little older, a little mellower and for me ALOT thinner. I have been at goal since Feb 2013 so most people hardly remember what I looked like before - in fact somebody at the party mentioned that (I still work with her so she has seen me alot). It was uncomfortable at times to get all the remarks, and I felt like my former 9retired) boss was uncomfortable around me (happened last time i saw him too, shortly after getting to goal). Since so many people post about being uncomforrtable about people noticing their weight loss, I thought i would share two specific stories that came up at this party. First, a lady that has always been thin, beautiful, tall blah blah blah. She made comments about how she had seen my face in pictures, but never really got a look at my body and just went on and on about how much I have changed. The longer and louder she got, the more defensive I started to feel. I recognized it and made the decision to do what I decided in 2012/2013 about work colleagues - these are people that respected and included me even when i didn't feel I deserved it, so I am going to suffer through some of their current rudeness knowing they are just expressing alot of things they don't know how to express in the best way. It was like... deep breath.... I can get through this even when she said "I think you are about half the size you used to be!". I told her that was the truth, I lost about half my size which of course is an indirect way of giving people an idea how much you lost. But seriously, when you used to be in the 24W-32W size range and are now single digit sizing - it is not exactly a secret is it!?! I knew her intentions were good, this lady is also a horse rider and she never made me feel like I was too big to be involved with horses or any of those kinds of things. Anyway, it was difficult for me, but the end result was getting invited on a trip to Hawaii with her and a small group of "girls" that were on that same project! Why didn't she invite me before? Well, to be honest, because in the past i could be standoffish/separate myself from others and often refused invitations etc from work related people especially. I am thrilled to be going and they are thrilled to have me. Second, the host of this event is a few years younger and was actually a single guy when I worked with him. Anyway, he is super outgoing/outrageous type of personality so he was really over the top vocal about how much I have changed. I could tell it was even making other people I work with (who are well over the shock) uncomfortable. Finally, one of the guys i work with said in response to his gushing about how different I look "yes M, you already said that". To which M replied, "but what i haven't said is not only do you look great from losing all that weight, you somehow turned out hot!" That got nods of approval and good laughs all around. It was a boost for me as I am 10# over goal, and of course notice my waist isn't as small as it was a year ago etc but i am still doing great. Moral of my story - well, there probably isn't one, but at least for me embracing other people's reactions to my epic physical transformation is part of my epic internal transformation. I have always felt I am a person with integrity, honesty, but this having to face stuff like this has forced me to dig deeper for a level of transparency and trust of others that isn't always comfortable. The thought that helps me alot is the knowledge that these SAME people accepted me, advocated for me, promoted me, respected me, worked with me and did alot of other great things even when I was morbidly obese (as they should of course!)

Hello, I was banded a few days after you (9-22) and I have lost 23 lbs since surgery. I am really struggling with my weight loss right now. I have had 2 fills and I believe I am at 7.6cc in a 10cc band. The first fill on 10-20, surprisingly enough, gave me lots of restriction.... I lost 14 pounds that month (Oct); lost 4 pounds in the 8 days after my surgery (Sept); and have only lost 5 lbs this month. I had another fill on Nov 10 and it has been sadly lacking, I have been REALLY hungry! I am trying to eat the amounts that I am supposed to, but it is all willpower right now not the band. I have another fill on Dec 8 but I might try to move it to next week so hopefully I won't do too much damage. Best of luck to you!!

Im glad Im not the only one dissapointed with my lapband's restriction. I go for another fill this Sat. so far they only put in 1.8 cc each fill in a 10 cc band, no prefill. Im up to only 3.6 cc, and thinking no wonder I have no restriction, this is being done too slow, but cant get my fill doctor to push harder. Im losing due to will power, dieting and walking every day, no thanks to my lapband.

My surgery was on 6/19, and I've only lost 15 lbs since surgery. I have high hopes for my latest fill, tho. The last one gave me pretty good restriction for about three weeks. I'm hoping this one is effective, and lasts me through the new year. I joined Curves today, so I also hope that helps kick-start some weight loss.

I had bloodwork done today. I go in on 4/17 for my Preop with surgeon... if I have lost 5-10 pounds they said they wont put me on a pre op diet.. currently I have lost more than that but it's almost that time of the month so I am gonna balloon up any second I hope they realize that :rolleyes2:

I found that I have averaged 10 pounds a month since my surgery. I just went for a fill yesterday and I had lost 12 pounds in 6 weeks. The nurse was really complimentary and saying "wow, that is great". I said that it was only 2 pounds a week and I thought that was right? She said that by this time people are usually losing 1 pound a week, even with exercise. I guess I'm lucky for the moment, but the day will come when I'm not losing so fast--I'm not looking forward to it!

At week 3 it is probably real hunger. It took me 8-10 weeks before my band started to do what I was expecting it to do. Week 3 I was on mushies. Different Soups, chili. scrambled eggs, quiche, mashed sweet potatoes. and on and on. At this point it is not about loosing weight or controlling hunger. It is all about fully healing before they can get down to real business.