Monday, November 30, 2009

What I Ate: 11/30/2009

Felt GROSS most of today. Had an insane abdominal cramp issue last night, which means I got no sleep and my tummy hurt most of the day. My surgeon wants me to have a gallbladder scan, but no insurance means no scan for now. I am going back to basics on food for a while (which sadly means no more meatloaf for the moment.)
  • Believe Italian Cappucino protein frappucino (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • About 1/2 Oh Yeah! chocolate milkshake protein drink. I was planning to have all of it, but I could only choke down half. (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • 1 bag Revival Soy jalapeno cheddar protein chips - I gave most of these to my mom because they're a little carby for me right now, but I was thankful to have a few bags left on this painful-pouch day because they go down really easily. (110 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 2.2 oz. pork tenderloin with a sweet mustard glaze (mustard and DaVinci sugar-free sweetening syrup; and seasoned the pork with garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika.) The pork was nice and juicy, and the seasoning didn't overwhelm its flavor. I was worried that the tummy wouldn't tolerate this, but it feels good so far. (130 kcals, 19.4g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenge - didn't do great with my calcium today :-( (4 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
554 kcals
62.4g protein
45.1% kcals from protein
36g net carbs
26.0% kcals from net carbs.

Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower TVP Bake

There are lots of recipes out there that use cauliflower to replace starches, such as potatoes and rice. See, e.g., Fauxtato Salad, Curried Chicken with "Rice", cauliflower pizza crust.

Here's my first contribution to that genre. It's really tasty and puts you in the mind of baked mashed potatoes with onions with a cheesy crust similar to mac & cheese. One perk of this recipe is that the TVP adds fiber and a significant amount of protein, thereby transforming what would otherwise be a pretty empty dish for WLSers into a perfect main or side dish. You could eat a serving or two as a meal, or you could eat one or one-half serving as a side.

Ingredients
About 1 head of cauliflower (should make 2 cups once pureed)
1 cup dry textured vegetable protein ("TVP")
1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt - I used Fage 0%
1/2 cup fat-free shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup fat-free shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup diced onions
1 tbsp. yellow mustard
1/4 cup egg substitute (I used Publix Eggstirs)
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
1 cup shredded 2% sharp cheddar cheese

Directions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

Rehydrate the TVP in 3/4 to 7/8 cup of water. While the TVP is moistening, puree the cauliflower in a food processor or blender.

Combine the pureed cauliflower and rehydrated TVP with all of the remaining ingredients EXCEPT the cup of 2% sharp cheddar.

Spread the cauliflower into a casserole dish. Bake the casserole for about 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes have elapsed, remove the casserole from the oven and top it with a thin layer of the 2% sharp cheddar cheese. Return the casserole to the oven and cook for about 20-25 additional minutes, or until the cheese gets brown around the edges.

Makes 16 servings.

Nutritional Information
1/16 of the recipe contains 75 calories, 9.4 grams of protein, and 3.8 grams of net carbs.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

What I Ate: 11/28/2009

  • "French Toast" - a muffin-in-a-minute sliced into thirds and griddled in nonstick spray. 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (120 kcals, 6g protein, 0g net carbs), 2 tbsp. canned pumpkin (10 kcals, 0.5g protein, 1g net carbs), 1/4 cup Egg Beaters (30 kcals, 6g protein, 0g net carbs), 1 tsp. Nature Sweet brown (6 kcals, 1.5g net carbs), 1/2 tsp. Nature Sweet powdered (3 kcals, 0.8g net carbs), 2 tbsp. sugar-free vanilla syrup, vanilla and maple extract, cinnamon, ginger. I grilled the brown Nature Sweet onto the MIAM slices for a syrupy glaze and sprinkled the powdered Nature Sweet and a little cinnamon over the top. So delish! (169 kcals, 12.5g protein, 3.3g net carbs)
  • 1 Believe Mocha Latte protein frappucino (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1/2 tbsp. Droste unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 slice flourless chocolate cake - made from black beans!! It was shockingly delicious - though, I should have had a smaller sliver. Didn't feel fantastic after eating it (192 kcals, 7g protein, 16g net carbs)
  • About 2 oz. meatballs from my Indian Wedding Soup (60 kcals, 9g protein, 2g net carbs)
  • A few bites of my mom's meatloaf (about 50 kcals, 6g protein, 2g net carbs)
  • 2 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (8 kcals, 2g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
760 kcals
79.5g protein
41.8% kcals from protein :-(
44.8g net carbs
23.6% kcals from net carbs.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

What I Ate: 11/27/2009

  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1/2 tbsp. Droste unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 pumpkin pie shake - 1/2 vanilla creme Oh Yeah! protein drink (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs), 2 tbsp. pumpkin puree (10 kcals, 0.5g protein, 1g net carbs), 1/2 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein (57 kcals, 12g protein, 1g net carbs), cinnamon, maple extract, and just a drop of sugar-free vanilla syrup (177 kcals, 28.5g protein, 3.5g net carbs)
  • Roughly 4 oz. of "Indian Wedding" Soup with broth. It's like Italian wedding, but with Indian flavors. It has tiny meatballs made with lamb and chicken breast, tomatoes, spinach, onions, and lots of spices! (about117 kcals, 15g protein, and 4g net carbs)
  • 6 pecan halves (about 60 kcals, 0.8g protein, 0.4g net carbs)
  • 1 bag barbecue Revival Soy Chips (110 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Oikos (65 kcals, 11.5g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire ice cream sandwich protein powder (65 kcals, 15g protein, 1.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF cheesecake Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 2 tbsp. Free Cool Whip (15 kcals, 0g protein, 3g net carbs) and some amount of SF chocolate and vanilla syrups - total (160 kcals, 26.5g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 4 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (16 kcals, 4g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
806 kcals
102.8g protein
51.0% kcals from protein
53.4g net carbs
26.5% kcals from net carbs.
I went for a 2-mile walk today at the track; it was so cold that I had to cut it shorter than my original plan of 3-5 miles. To compensate, I came home and did Leslie Sansone's Walk and Kick dvd, and finished it out with my mom's "Gentle Pilates" dvd. :-)

Friday, November 27, 2009

Recipe: Indian Wedding Soup

This is my reinterpretation of Italian Wedding Soup, a classic Italian-American dish with tiny meatballs and a green leafy vegetable in a chicken stock-based broth. I was going to make a meatloaf using the flavors in this soup but decided to try this instead. It is yummy and very comforting, but with that touch of heat and spicy flair of Indian cuisine. The meatballs contain lean ground lamb and ground chicken breast.

It's too bad I didn't bring my crappy camera out of town with me. I would have taken a photo, because this was really colorful with the deep green spinach, bright red tomatoes, and turmeric-colored broth.

Ingredients (Meatballs)
1 pound ground chicken breast
1 pound lean ground lamb
1/4 cup ground flaxseed meal
1/4 cup finely diced onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp. minced garlic
2 tbsp. fresh turmeric, minced (it's okay to leave this out if you can't find it)
2 tsp. ground turmeric
1 tbsp. garam masala
2 tsp. whole fennel seeds
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/4 cup Egg Beaters or other egg substitute

Ingredients (Broth)
1 bag of fresh spinach (1 small box of thawed frozen spinach is fine too)
1 can of no-salt-added diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup chunky diced onions, or onions cut into strings or rings
1 box (32 oz.) organic low-sodium chicken broth
2 tsp. each of garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, mace, and cinnamon
1 tsp. whole fennel seeds
1 tsp. cracked black pepper
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

Directions
Begin by combining all of the ingredients for the meatballs. Once all of the ingredients are well-incorporated, form the mixture into tiny meatballs. I didn't weigh my meatballs individually this time, but I'd guess that each one weighed between 1/4 and 1/3 oz.

Saute the meatballs in nonstick spray until they are browned on two sides. They should be mostly cooked through before you take them off the heat, but it's okay if there's a little pink left because they are going to cook more in the soup. You will need to saute the meatballs in batches; I suggest starting to saute some of them while you are forming another batch. As you finish sauteing a batch, empty them into a dutch oven or other large pot.

After all meatballs are browned and in the soup pot, begin constructing the soup by adding the spinach, tomatoes, and all spices to the meatballs. Stir well over medium heat to distribute the vegetables and open up the spices.

After about 5 minutes, add the chicken stock and onions to the soup. Bring the soup to a boil. Allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes, then lower to medium heat. Cook it until it seems done and well incorporated, but not overly-reduced. Let the soup rest for ten minutes, then serve.

Makes about 14 servings.

Nutritional Information (Best Estimate!)
The entire recipe contains approximately 1,635 calories, 213 grams of protein, and 57 net carbs.

If you divide the soup into 14 servings, each one will contain about 117 calories, 15 grams of protein, and 4 grams of net carbs.

What I Ate: 11/26/2009

  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein frappucino (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • "French Toast" - 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (120 kcals, 6g protein, 0g net carbs), 2 tbsp. canned pumpkin (10 kcals, 0.5g protein, 1g net carbs), 2 tbsp. Egg Beaters (15 kcals, 3g protein, 0g net carbs), 1 tsp. Nature Sweet brown (6 kcals, 1.5g net carbs), 1/2 tsp. Nature Sweet powdered (3 kcals, 0.8g net carbs), 1 tbsp. sugar-free vanilla syrup, vanilla and maple extract, cinnamon, a little nutmeg; griddled in nonstick spray. I sprinkled the powdered Nature Sweet over the top. So delish! (154 kcals, 9.5g protein, 3.3g net carbs)
  • 1 Italian Cappucino Believe protein frappucino (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 2.5 oz. pork chop (166 kcals, 18g protein, 0g net carbs) and 2 tbsp. pinto beans that were cooked with a smoked turkey wing (40 kcals, 1.7g protein, 3.7g net carbs). My mom cooked this and it was DELICIOUS. (206 kcals, 19.7g protein, 3.7g net carbs)
  • More chocolate Greek yogurt! This time I used Oikos, so the stats are a tad different: 1/2 cup nonfat Oikos (65 kcals, 11.5g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire chocolate peanut butter fudge protein powder (64 kcals, 13.5g protein, 1.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF chocolate fudge Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 2 tbsp. Free Cool Whip (15 kcals, 0g protein, 3g net carbs) and some amount of SF chocolate and vanilla syrups - total (159 kcals, 25g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 4 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (16 kcals, 4g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 2 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (20 kcals, 5g net carbs)
Total:
810 kcals
94.2g protein
46.5% kcals from protein
41g net carbs
20.2% kcals from net carbs.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

What I Ate: 11/25/2009

  • 1 Boca vegan patty (70 kcals, 13g protein, 2g net carbs) with 1/4 cup Kraft shredded fat-free mozzarella cheese (45 kcals, 9g protein, 2g net carbs), and 2 grape tpmatoes (5 kcals, 0g protein, 1g net carbs) (120 kcals, 22g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 Believe Mocha Latte protein "frappucino" (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 bag Revival Soy baked jalapeno cheddar chips (110 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 6 raw pistachios (24 kcals, 0.6g protein, 0.6g net carbs), 5 raw cashews (45 kcals, 1g protein, 2.5g net carbs), and 2 raw almonds (14 kcals, 0.6g protein, 0.4g net carbs)
  • YUMMINESS: Indian-spiced shrimp with tamarind yogurt dipping sauce. I took 15 small-medium shrimp and seasoned them with turmeric, garam masala, mace, cumin, and coriander (105 kcals, 25g protein, 0g net carbs) and served them with 1 tbsp. of Chobani nonfat Greek yogurt (10 kcals, 1.5g protein, 0.6g net carbs) that I mixed with 1 tsp. of tamarind concentrate (4 kcals, 0g protein, 0g net carbs) about 1 tsp. of sugar-free sweetening syrup, a sprinkle of garam masala, a sprinkle of liquid smoke, and a drop of apple cider vinegar (I'd oversweetened with the syrup, so the vinegar and smoke kept the sauce from tasting like dessert!). The sauce was so good that I had to lap it up out of the dipping bowl after the shrimp were gone. (125 kcals, 26.5g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • Did the chocolate Fage again! 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire chocolate peanut butter fudge protein powder (64 kcals, 13.5g protein, 1.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF chocolate fudge Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 2 tbsp. Free Cool Whip (15 kcals, 0g protein, 3g net carbs) and some amount of SF chocolate and vanilla syrups - total (154 kcals, 23.5g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges - I'm guessing here (8 kcals, 2g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
921 kcals
126.2g protein
54.8% kcals from protein
63g net carbs
27.4% kcals from net carbs.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

What I Ate: 11/24/2009

  • 1 Believe Italian Cappucino protein "frappucino" (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 Boca vegan patty (70 kcals, 13g protein, 2g net carbs) with 1 slice fat-free American cheese (30 kcals, 5g protein, 2g net carbs), and 4 Mt. Olive no sugar added bread and butter pickle chips (5 kcals, 0g protein, 0g net carbs) (105 kcals, 18g protein, 4g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 15 small/medium sauteed shrimp seasoned with paprika and ginger, with a sweet yuzu-soy dipping sauce (110 kcals, 25g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • I made a chocolate Fage today! 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire chocolate peanut butter fudge protein powder (64 kcals, 13.5g protein, 1.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF chocolate fudge Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 2 tbsp. Free Cool Whip (15 kcals, 0g protein, 3g net carbs) and some amount of SF chocolate and vanilla syrups - total (154 kcals, 23.5g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 2 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bites (80 kcals, 12g net carbs)
  • 2 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges - I'm guessing here (8 kcals, 2g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
738 kcals
111.5g protein
60.4% kcals from protein
51.5g net carbs
27.9% kcals from net carbs.

I finally got myself back to the gym this morning - 62 minutes on the elliptical at a high speed and high resistance. The distance meter said I went 5.2 miles, but it's almost certainly inaccurate! Either way, it was a great workout with lotsa sweat. :-)

Monday, November 23, 2009

What I Ate: 11/23/2009

  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 serving Beef and Bean Chili Loaf - my newest creation! (113 kcals, 10g protein, 10g net carbs)
  • 1 Believe Italian Cappucino protein "frappucino" (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 bag Revival Soy baked jalapeno cheddar chips - this was a craving that I eventually gave into. I'm not sure how to combat these. I won't be buying anymore of these chips after these get gone. (110 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 9 small-medium shrimp (60 kcals, 15g protein, 0g net carbs) wrapped with 1 strip of Jennie-O extra lean turkey bacon - one strip cut into 9 pieces! (20 kcals, 3g protein, 0g net carbs) with a very light sweet soy yuzu vinaigrette - yummy . . . (80 kcals, 18g protein, 0g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire peanut butter cookie (66 kcals, 12.5g protein, 0.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF cheesecake Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs) and some amount of SF syrups - total (141 kcals, 22.5g protein, 9g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges - I'm guessing here (8 kcals, 2g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 2 Bariatric Advantage chocolate calcium chews (30 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (20 kcals, 5g net carbs)

Total:
793 kcals
102.5g protein
51.7% kcals from protein
63g net carbs
31.8% kcals from net carbs. :-( :-( :-(

What I Ate: 11/22/2009

I'm late posting this! It takes me a long time to calculate the calories in my recipes, so I just finished figuring out the deal with the beef and bean chili-inspired loaf.

  • 3 slices Hormel Natural deli turkey (it's back!) rolled up and stuffed with 10 Mt. Olive no sugar added bread & butter pickle chips - yumm! The pickles are sweetened with Splenda and supposedly have no calories, but I'm estimating that they have a few based on what we learned about Splenda . . . (58 kcals, 10g protein, 2g net carbs)
  • Apple Vanilla Protein Cheesecake: 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) mixed with 1/2 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein (57 kcals, 12g protein, 1g net carbs), 1 tbsp. Jello sugar-free cheesecake pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), and about 1.5 tbsp. sugar-free vanilla syrup; topped with 16 grams of granny smith apple (about 1/8 of a large apple) (9 kcals, 2g net carbs), thinly sliced and cooked in 1 tsp. Nature Sweet sugar-free brown "sugar" (6 kcals, 0.5g net carbs), a little cinnamon, yuzu juice, and sugar-free vanilla syrup (147 kcals, 22g protein, 12g net carbs)
  • 5 slices Hormel Natural deli turkey with more pickle chips (99 kcals, 16.6g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • Pumpkin shake, this time with 4 oz. Oh Yeah! vanilla creme protein shake (63 kcals, 9g protein, 1g net carbs) and 1 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein (114 kcals, 24g protein, 2g net carbs) with 2 tbsp. pumpkin puree (10 kcals, 1g protein, 1g net carbs) with sugar-free vanilla and butter rum syrups, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and a tiny bit of orange zest (187 kcals, 34g protein, 4g net carbs)
  • 1 serving Beef and Bean Chili Loaf - my newest creation! (113 kcals, 10g protein, 10g net carbs)
  • More Fage - 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire ice cream sandwich (63 kcals, 15g protein, 1g net carb), and about 1 tbsp. sugar-free Jello cheesecake pudding (15 kcas, 0g protein, 4g net carbs) and various sugar-free syrups (138 kcals, 25g protein, 9.5g net carbs)
  • 3 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (12 kcals, 3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
799 kcals
117.6g protein
58.9% kcals from protein
55g net carbs
27.5% kcals from net carbs.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

What I Ate: 11/21/2009

  • 1 Italian Cappuccino Believe protein drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • "French toast"!: 1 pumpkin flaxseed muffin-in-a-minute, griddled in butter-flavored nonstick spray, with 2 tbsp. Mrs. Butterworth's sugar-free pancake syrup and a sprinkle of powdered Nature Sweet (sugar-free "powdered sugar") (175 kcals, 12.5g protein, 3g net carbs)
  • 1 bottle chocolate milkshake Oh Yeah! protein shake (220 kcals, 32g protein, 3g net carbs)
  • A new chicken saag recipe - I overdid it on the fennel seed, so this one was not quite as good. 3 oz. of chicken breast (120 kcals, 24g protein, 0g net carbs) and about 1.5 oz. of the spinach gravy, which had fat-free cream cheese, broth, fat-free Greek yogurt, diced red peppers, garlic, onion, and spices (loosely estimating 30 kcals, 3g protein, 3g net carbs).
  • 1 mini-Babybel cheese (70 kcals, 5g protein, 0g net carbs)
  • 1 fake Bailey's cocktail - 1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate almond milk with sugar-free Irish cream syrup and a little whipped cream (33 kcals, 1g protein, 2g net carbs)
  • 3 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (12 kcals, 3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
825 kcals
97.5g protein
47.3% kcals from protein
28.5g net carbs
13.8% kcals from net carbs.

I went for my 5-mile stroll this morning. It was so fun!

Friday, November 20, 2009

What I Ate: 11/20/2009

Today was "B-Day." I don't mean something happy, like "birthday." I mean, "bar day." But . . . I passed!!! So, even though the day doesn't bring me joy, it brings me great relief.
  • 1 bag jalapeno cheddar Revival baked soy crisps (110 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • About 2.5 oz. crab (79 kcals, 15.8g protein, 0.5g net carbs), 1 oz. lobster (28 kcals, 5.8g protein, 0.4g net carbs), and 2 medium shrimp (16 kcals, 3.6g protein, 0g net carbs) with a little cocktail sauce - 1 tsp.? (8 kcals, 0g protein, 2g net carbs) and a few capers (2 kcals) (133 kcals, 25.2g protein, 3g net carbs)
  • 1 Mocha Latte Believe (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • Pumpkin Maple Fage: 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs), 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree (20 kcals, 1g protein, 2g net carbs), 1/2 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein (57 kcals, 12g protein, 1g net carbs), 2 tbsp. sugar-free Mrs. Butterworth's syrup (10 kcals, 0g protein, 2g net carbs) (147 kcals, 23g protein, 9.5g net carbs)
  • Pseudo banana pudding shake - just 4 oz. vanilla creme Oh Yeah! and 3 oz. bananas & creme Oh Yeah! (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 3 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (12 kcals, 3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
717 kcals
91.2g protein
50.9% kcals from protein
50.5g net carbs
28.2% kcals from net carbs.

I did the Pilates dvd this morning, and also 35 minutes on the elliptical. That's a little short for one of my cardio workouts, but I at least cranked up the resistance really high (for me.) I had to get to work! My 35 minutes was supposedly 2.5 miles and 345 calories burned.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

What I Ate: 11/19/2009

  • 1 bag of Revival Soy jalapeno cheddar baked protein crisps (110 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 Boca vegan patty (70 kcals, 13g protein, 2g net carbs) with 1 slice fat-free American cheese (30 kcals, 5g protein, 2g net carbs) and 3 grape tomatoes (7 kcals, 0g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 pumpkin protein shake - this time made with 1/2 Oh Yeah! vanilla creme shake (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs), 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (20 kcals, 1g protein, 2g net carbs), 1/2 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein (57 kcals, 12g protein, 1g net carbs), cinnamon, ginger, and just a drop of sugar-free butter rum syrup (187 kcals, 29g protein, 4.5g net carbs)
  • 10 almonds (70 kcals, 3g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with a little over 1 tbsp. SF/FF cheesecake Jello mix (15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 1/2 scoop Inspire ice cream sandwich protein powder (63 kcals, 15g protein, 1g net carb), and SF chocolate, vanilla, and cookie dough syrups to my taste. (138 kcals, 25g protein, 9.5g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 3 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges (12 kcals, 3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
843 kcals
102g protein
48.4% kcals from protein
55.5g net carbs
26.3% kcals from net carbs.

I overslept this morning and missed my morning workout, but I'm proud to report that I got a little workout in tonight with the Leslie Sansone Walk & Kick dvd. It feels more strenuous to me than standard Sansone fare.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

What I Ate: 11/18/2009

I ate almost exactly the same thing I had yesterday, except today was even yummier!
  • 1 Boca vegan patty (70 kcals, 13g protein, 2g net carbs) with 1 slice fat-free American cheese (30 kcals, 5g protein, 2g net carbs) and 3 grape tomatoes (7 kcals, 0g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • 1Believe Italian Cappucino protein energy drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 3 oz. Apple-Cranberry Turkey Loaf with Pumpkin-Maple-Orange Sauce (about 90 calories, 10.5g protein, 7g net carbs)
  • Banana pudding shake! - 4 oz. Oh Yeah! Vanilla Creme, 3 oz. Oh Yeah! Bananas & Cream, 1/2 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein, and a few drops of SF cookie dough and SF butter rum syrup with several ice cubes. This really did taste like banana pudding with Nilla wafers, one of my favorite pre-op desserts!!! (167 kcals, 28g protein, 2.5g net carbs)
  • A couple bites of a watercress salad with egg white, Jennie-O lean turkey bacon, and grape tomatoes (about 15 kcals, 3g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire peanut butter cookie (66 kcals, 12.5g protein, 0.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF white chocolate Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs) and some amount of SF syrups - total (141 kcals, 22.5g protein, 9g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 3 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges - I'm guessing here (12 kcals, 3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
737 kcals
102g protein
55.4% kcals from protein
44g net carbs
23.9% kcals from net carbs.


I went to the gym again this morning for a little over 47 minutes on the elliptical. I went a little over 3 and 1/3 miles and supposedly burned about 450 calories.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

What I Ate: 11/17/2009

Back on track!
  • 1 Boca vegan patty (70 kcals, 13g protein, 2g net carbs) with 1 slice fat-free American cheese (30 kcals, 5g protein, 2g net carbs) and 2 grape tomatoes (5 kcals, 0g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 3 oz. Apple-Cranberry Turkey Loaf with Pumpkin-Maple-Orange Sauce (about 90 calories, 10.5g protein, 7g net carbs)
  • Bananas foster shake from Bariatric Foodie, but made my own less carby, higher protein way - 3 oz. Oh Yeah! Vanilla Creme, 4 oz. Oh Yeah! Bananas & Cream, 1/2 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein, and 1 glug of SF butter rum syrup with 5 ice cubes. This would have been better without quite so much of the butter rum syrup - a few drops would have done. I want to turn this into a banana pudding shake; still working that recipe out (167 kcals, 28g protein, 2.5g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with a little over 1 tbsp. SF/FF white chocolate Jello mix (15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 1/2 scoop Inspire ice cream sandwich protein powder (63 kcals, 15g protein, 1g net carb), and SF vanilla and cookie dough syrups to my taste. (138 kcals, 25g protein, 9.5g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 3 Bariatric Advantage calcium lozenges - I'm guessing here (12 kcals, 3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
718 kcals
106.5g protein
59.3% kcals from protein
48.5g net carbs
27.0% kcals from net carbs.

I finally got back to it! Took it easy for the first day back on track - a little under 48 minutes for a "distance" of 3 and 1/3 miles and a supposed calorie burn of about 450. One exciting thing is that I increased my resistance for the first time today, and it didn't kill me! As you lose weight, you burn fewer calories with the same amount of exercise. I was going as fast as I could, so I decided to try increasing the resistance to up my calorie burn. Maybe this will become a regular part of my regimen!

Monday, November 16, 2009

What I Ate: 11/16/2009

It's official, y'all. I have fallen off the wagon. I ate two bags of the protein chips (which happen to have 13g net carbs a bag, even though they also have protein) today. I haven't worked out for several days. I have to fix this. I'm not going to beat myself up about it; I'm just going to fix it stat.
  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 2 bags of Revival Soy Chips - this is where I completely screwed up today - ARGH. (210 kcals, 14g protein, 26g net carbs.) I fell into complete carb coma after I ate these. My eyes started closing and it was horrible. Also, they didn't keep me full for long. Unfortunately I've already ordered another box of these, but also perhaps when I'm feeling less crazy, I will be less tempted to eat two bags.
  • 1/2 Oh Yeah! Cookies and Cream ready-to-drink protein (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 12 almonds (84 kcals, 3.6g protein, 1.2g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire peanut butter cookie (66 kcals, 12.5g protein, 0.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF white chocolate Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs) and some amount of SF syrups - total (141 kcals, 22.5g protein, 9g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
831 kcals
101.1g protein
48.7% kcals from protein
58.2g net carbs (yikes!)
28.0% kcals from net carbs.

What I Ate: 11/14/2009

I went to the YouTube WLS meet and greet in Greenville this weekend, which was really fun! I had a great time meeting everyone. I didn't do a great job with food related to this - I stayed up all night cooking and my eating schedule was all off as a result. I also overate. I wanted to sample everything, but the only way I could do that was to basically graze my way through lunch and dinner. I'm publishing every bite that I can remember, just for accountability's sake.

Anyway, the event was terrific and totally worth one wack food day. :-) All of the foods I sampled from other people were so delicious!

  • 1 Oh Yeah! Chocolate Milkshake ready-to-drink protein
  • About 2.5 black bean patties with red peppers, onions, and garlic - this was from sampling to make sure they tasted right
  • About 1.5 chicken and apple meatballs
  • 2 Eggface "bites," this time made with real eggs, full fat Vermont extra sharp white cheddar, peas, and onions
  • About 1/4 to 1/3 cup "Pizza Soup" made by Beth and Larry. This was amazing: It tasted and smelled just like pizza! This would be great on your family's pizza night, because you wouldn't get so tempted by the carby crust.
  • About 1/4 cup broccoli salad made by someone at the meet and greet - not sure who, but it was terrific!
  • A few bites of sugar-free cheesecake. This was good, but frankly my protein Fage with the sugar-free cheesecake Jello tastes better and is actually good for me!
  • About 1/3 cup pumpkin and black bean soup, made by April. What really made the soup delish, I think, is the balsamic vinegar. This was really creative and delicious.
  • About 1.5-2 oz. rotisserie chicken breast
  • A spoonful of black-eyed pea salad - I think it also had black beans, tomato, and a little corn but I can't recall all of the ingredients right now
  • A few tablespoons of "pumpkin fluff" made by Dena - it was so yummy! She said it was just canned pumpkin, SF/FF white chocolate Jello, spices, and maybe Cool Whip? Very yummy either way.
  • 1 "35-second cake" - I'm not sure who made these, but they are chocolate cakes made with, inter alia, protein powder. It was chocolate cake with whipped creamy icing and with little shavings of chocolate on top (I'm assuming sugar-free chocolate!)
  • 1 large honeycrisp apple
  • All of my vitamins and drink packs

Sunday, November 15, 2009

What I Ate: 11/15/2009

  • 4 Shelly's bites, this time made with real eggs, filled with onions, peas, and full-fat Vermont sharp cheddar (about 140 kcals, 10.5g protein, 2g net carbs). I made these for the YouTube meet and greet, so I didn't want to use my more rubbery but healthy products like egg substitute and fat-free cheese!
  • 2.5 oz. pot roast that my mom cooked (150 kcals, 23g protein, 0g net carbs) with lowfat roasted garlic and mushroom soup with celery and onions (maybe 35 kcals, 0g protein, 7g net carbs), served with 1/3 of a plain flaxseed "muffin in a minute" (50 kcals, 4g protein, 0g net carbs)
  • 1 strawberry (6 kcals, 0g protein, 1g net carb) and 1 deviled egg (40 kcals, 4g protein, 2.5g net carbs)
  • 1 Mocha Latte Believe protein "frappucino" (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with a little over 1 tbsp. SF/FF white chocolate Jello mix (15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs), 1/2 scoop Inspire ice cream sandwich protein powder (63 kcals, 15g protein, 1g net carb), and SF vanilla and cookie dough syrups to my taste.
  • 12 almonds (84 kcals, 3.6g protein, 1.2g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
848 kcals
90.1g protein
42.5% kcals from protein
43.7g net carbs
20.6% kcals from net carbs.


I had a pretty high fat intake today, apparently.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

What I Ate: 11/13/2009

  • Italian Cappucino Believe protein drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 serving Apple-Cranberry Turkey Loaf with Pumpkin-Maple-Orange Sauce (84 calories, 10.5g protein, 6.7g net carbs)
  • 1 regular mini-Babybel Cheese - my boss got these for me and could only find the full-fat ones! (70 kcals, 5g protein, 0g net carbs)
  • 1/2 Oh Yeah! Vanilla Creme (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire peanut butter cookie (66 kcals, 12.5g protein, 0.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF white chocolate Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs) and some amount of SF syrups - total (141 kcals, 22.5g protein, 9g net carbs)
  • 10 almonds (70 kcals, 3g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • Various tastes of foods that I was cooking all night: 2.5 black bean patties, 1 chicken and apple meatball, tastes of my pumpkin-maple-orange sauce, cranberry-sage sauce, and sips of my corn milk-cilantro sauce
  • All of my vitamins

Thursday, November 12, 2009

What I Ate: 11/12/2009

Horrible, horrible, hectic day. I have yesterday's entry typed out, but will add it later once I've had a chance to total everything.
  • 4 "Shelly's bites" with turkey bacon, mushrooms, Jarlsberg lite emmentaler, and chives - the last of this batch (100 kcals, 13.2g protein, 1.2g net carbs)
  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 2.5-oz. slice meatloaf Caprese with balsamic reduction (110 kcals, 14.5g protein, 4.7g net carbs)
  • Pumpkin protein shake: This time made with 1/4 cup pumpkin (20 kcals, 2g protein, 2g net carbs), 1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (10 kcals, 0g protein, 0g net carbs), 1/2 cup water, 1 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein powder (114 kcals, 24g protein, 2g net carbs) total - (144 kcals, 26g protein, 4g net carbs)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs) with 1/2 scoop Inspire peanut butter cookie (66 kcals, 12.5g protein, 0.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. FF/SF white chocolate Jello pudding (about 15 kcals, 0g protein, 4g net carbs) and some amount of SF syrups - total (141 kcals, 22.5g protein, 9g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
700 kcals
96.2g protein
55.0% kcals from protein
39.4g net carbs

22.5% kcals from net carbs.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

What I Ate: 11/11/2009

I was off work today. Happy Veteran's Day!

  • 1 Italian Cappucino Believe protein "Frappucino" (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • Pumpkin protein shake, made with: 1/2 Vanilla Oh Yeah! ready to drink protein (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs); 1/2 scoop of my new Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein powder (57 kcals, 12g protein, 1g net carbs), 2 tbsp. pumpkin (10 kcals, 1g protein, 1g net carbs), and a splash of SF vanilla syrup (177, 29g protein, 3.5g net carbs)
  • A different incarnation of the pumpkin protein shake! This time with: 1 scoop Elite Gourmet Vanilla protein powder (114 kcals, 24g protein, 2g net carbs), 2 tbsp. pumpkin puree (10 kcals, 1g protein, 1g net carbs), 4 oz. unsweetened vanilla almond milk (20 kcals, 0.5g protein, 0.5g net carbs), and various fall spices (144 kcals, 25.5g protein, 3.5g net carbs)
  • 1 bag Revival Soy BBQ chips (105 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • Protein fage: 1/2 cup Fage (60 kcals, 10g protein, 4.5g net carbs), 1 tbsp. cheesecake SF/FF Jello (about 10 kcals, 0g protein, 3g net carbs), 1/2 scoop ice cream sandwich (63 kcals, 15g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • About 1/2 serving Apple-Cranberry Turkey Loaf with Pumpkin-Maple-Orange Sauce (42 calories, 5.2g protein, 3.4g net carbs)
  • 2 Calcet lemon calcium citrate creamy bites (80 kcals, 12g carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
846 kcals
111.7g protein
52.8% kcals from protein
58.4g net carbs
27.6% kcals from net carbs.
I did the Leslie Sansone "Walk and Kick" video today. It was fun!

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

What I Ate: 11/10/2009

Felt like doing liquids most of today. No specific reason; I just thought it would be a good way to exercise control over my eating. I intended to do them all day, but then I had meatloaf for a really late dinner instead of a shake. I didn't get my last intended shake in because I expected to be up later than I was.

  • 1 Mocha Latte Believe protein drink. (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1/2 (7 oz.) Oh Yeah! ready-to-drink protein in Cookies & Creme flavor (110 kcals, 16g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • "Tan Velvet" protein frozen yogurt (134 kcals, 26.5g protein, 6.5g net carbs)
  • 1 serving Apple-Cranberry Turkey Loaf with Pumpkin-Maple-Orange Sauce (84 calories, 10.5g protein, 6.7g net carbs)
  • 2 Calcet calcium citrate lemon creamy bite (80 kcals, 12g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
573 kcals
73g protein
51.0% kcals from protein
41.2g net carbs
28.8% kcals from net carbs.
I fell short on protein count today, but I also fell short on calories today. I'm not going to beat myself up about it. I'm sure my protein binge of Sunday evening/Monday morning means it's probably not the end of the world that I didn't get those grams in today.

I tell ya - liquid protein tends to keep me really full if that's all I'm having that day. I mean, when I'm eating solid food and using shakes to supplement, I get hungrier faster after the shake than after the dense protein. However, when I'm only having protein supplements, I can go all day without eating (which is what happened here from about 12-9 pm, thus the lower calories and protein than normal.)

What up with that, yo?

Monday, November 9, 2009

What I Ate: 11/9/2009

  • 1 Italian Cappucino Believe protein drink. (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 bag Revival Soy BBQ protein chips (105 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • "Tan Velvet" protein frozen yogurt (134 kcals, 26.5g protein, 6.5g net carbs)
  • A little more than one serving of my newest meatloaf, Apple-Cranberry Turkey Loaf with Pumpkin-Maple Sauce. (about 126, 15.7g protein, 10g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet chew - I guess I lied about not having one today! (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
691 kcals
94.2g protein
54.5% kcals from protein
56g net carbs (high! ew!)
32.4% kcals from net carbs.

BUT: I had a semi-binge the night before this and took in a good number of calories in addition to yesterday's and today's. I'm not sure how many. I'm hesitant to really call it a binge, because I didn't get out of control or anything. Basically, I needed to stay up all night to work on something, and I used three methods to do so: exercise, showers, and eating. I know eating should not be used for this, but I did at least choose the right kinds of food - I had the rest of my Jarlsberg lite emmentaler, a little of the tuna and pea loaf, and some sauerkraut. It was helpful for keeping me awake, but my stomach was torn up most of the day!

Was so sleepy when I got home that exercise was completely out of the question today. I'll get back to it, though!

Sunday, November 8, 2009

What I Ate: 11/8/2009

  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein drink. (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 serving classic tuna and pea loaf with cheddar sauce - man, so good (101 kcals, 14.6g protein, 6.3g net carbs)
  • "Tan Velvet" protein frozen yogurt (134 kcals, 26.5g protein, 6.5g net carbs)
  • Breakfast for dinner! I made French toast from my pumpkin MIAM! Flaxseed meal is awesome. And sugar-free Mrs. Butterworth's syrup is glorious. This was totally amazing and very filling (I would have satisfied with only 2/3 of the muffin, for sure.) French toast - (165 kcals, 12g protein, about 4g net carbs); with 1 tbsp. of the syrup (just 5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • Another serving of tan velvet! I missed having mine yesterday and decided to make up for the loss . . . (134 kcals, 26.5g protein, 6.5g net carbs)
  • An almond milk "cocktail" - I just put 1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate almond milk in a champagne glass with SF chocolate syrup and a touch of FF Cool Whip for decoration (I didn't drink it.) This was fun, got me a little more liquid in, and was very tasty. Might be a good nightcap-type thing to get into, esp. on the rare nights (like this one) where I have to stay up quite late. This would be awesome with the SF Irish Cream syrup! (23 kcals, 1g protein, 1g net carbs)
  • Was up late doing work and planned for a tiny 6th meal today, 1 mini Babybel Light cheese round (50 kcals, 6g protein, 0g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet chew - I guess I lied about not having one today! (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
817 kcals
106.6g protein
52.2% kcals from protein
45.8g net carbs
22.4% kcals from net carbs.

I went on a long walk this morning in the woods with my friend who lives in Kershaw County. Tonight, I threw in the Ana Caban Pilates dvd for good measure. :-)

Add Cancer to the Litany of Bad Things Caused by Obesity

I wonder if the woman in the photo accompanying the Agence France-Press version of this story knew they were using her headless body for this purpose. It seems unnecessary and is somewhat insensitive. No other comment.

Obesity Is the Cause of Many Types of Cancers, US Researchers Say
The Independent
Nov. 9, 2009

Over 100,000 types of cancers are caused by excess body fat, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research, which Thursday released comprehensive data on cancer cases in the United States and reaffirmed its message that people should maintain a normal body weight and remain physically active throughout life.

Being overweight makes a person susceptible to cancer because it increases the amount of hormones like estrogen circulating in the body and disrupts how the body processes insulin, which is linked to higher risk of cancer. Being overweight also creates low-grade inflammation in the body, which is increasingly being found to play a role in cancer, according to AICR health experts.

Click here to read the rest of the story. It's very short, but worthwhile.

What I Ate: 11/7/2009

Took the MPRE this morning. Pretty sure I didn't pass. Oh well - on to March!
  • 1 bag (1 oz.) Kay's Naturals Honey Almond protein cereal (100 kcals, 9g protein, 12g net carbs)
  • 1 serving classic tuna and pea loaf with cheddar sauce - man, so good (101 kcals, 14.6g protein, 6.3g net carbs)
  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein drink. (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • I went to dinner at a terrific restaurant in downtown Camden, SC, a beautiful little city in the Olde English District of South Carolina. Camden is an equestrian town. William F. Buckley, Jr.'s family had a summer home there. The restaurant is Indigo Jones, and I was jonesing on their awesome food. If this place were in Columbia, it might be my favorite, with their diverse array of interesting but protein-rich dishes. I think it's better than Motor Supply! And it's great for a WLS-er, because most of their food is served tapas-style. I had the escargots, the pecan-crusted breast of cornish hen, and the special, grilled escolar. I loved all the dishes, but in that order of preference. The hen breast crusting obviously had a little sugar in it, so I ate some of the chicken without the crusting. This obviously had more fat and calories than normal for me, but I still felt good about the choices I made, given that this was an extra-special occasion.
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 2 Calcet calcium citrate chews in lemon. I'm only supposed to have one a day, but I had more than one. I won't have one tomorrow, I guess. I had both in a row. Interestingly, I felt a little queasy afterwards, likely owing to the sugariness of the chews. Compare with the breakfast cereal and soy chips, which have about the same number of carbs but more from complex sources and starch than from straight-up simple sugar. (80 kcals, 12g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 2 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (20 kcals, 5g net carbs)
Total: Not sure because of the awesomeness of Indigo Jones, but I think I did pretty well, considering.

I went on a lovely walk in Camden on some beautiful property for today's activity.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Uncharted Territory: A Weight Update

Well, it's official. I am at my lowest recorded adult weight. About 30 minutes ago, the scale said 206.6.

I am 2.4 pounds below my lowest recorded adult weight of 209, which I measured at the Payne-Whitney "Chapel of Sweat" in September 2005. That's a loss of 131.4 pounds since my highest recorded weight of 338, in 2002, and 97.4 pounds since my surgery starting weight of 304.0.

I weigh 123 less than when I graduated from high school, 73 less than when I started senior year of high school, and 43 less than the end of my freshman year of high school, when I was 14 and experiencing my first serious crush. I went on my first crash diet that summer, combining Slim Fast with the Cabbage Soup Diet: my first time rapidly losing weight only to gain it right back.

Crazy.

Friday, November 6, 2009

What I Ate: 11/6/2009

Urgh . . . I have to take the MPRE tomorrow morning. I've heard the test is easy to pass, but I'm still concerned as I didn't study very much. I'd rather be making meatloaf ::sigh::

  • 1 bag Revival Soy BBQ protein chips - lame breakfast, but I wanted to put the carbiest parts of the day earliest in the morning. (105 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 1 2.5-oz. slice meatloaf Caprese with balsamic reduction. Good LORD, I put my foot in this meatloaf. It was incredibly delicious today, even at room temperature, eaten with my fingers out of a Ziploc bag at my desk. (110 kcals, 14.5g protein, 4.7g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 Italian Cappucino Believe protein drink - shockingly, I think this is my favorite flavor. It's delicious. (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 serving classic tuna and pea loaf with cheddar sauce - man, so good (101 kcals, 14.6g protein, 6.3g net carbs)
  • "Tan Velvet" protein frozen yogurt (134 kcals, 26.5g protein, 6.5g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate chew in lemon - yum-a-lum (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
776 kcals
107.6g protein
55.5% kcals from protein
57g net carbs (yikes! I blame the soy chips)
29.4% kcals from net carbs.
I only had a very short workout tonight, just the Leslie Sansone "Power Mile," which I believe was less than 20 minutes! But it was something, and I'm proud of myself considering the craziness I have going on in life right now. Fortunately, at least one major project will be completed tomorrow morning - though I may be retaking in March . . .

What I Ate: 11/5/2009

I'm not doing a modified "LPT" (liquid protein train or liquid protein diet) today, but I just got my first shipment of Believe ready-to-drink protein shakes and I wanted to taste them. This was the result:
  • 1 Mocha Latte Believe protein coffee drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 Chai Tea Believe protein coffee drink (120 kcals, 20g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 2.5-oz. slice Meatloaf Caprese with Balsamic Reduction (110 kcals, 14.5g protein, 4.7g net carbs) - soooo good!
  • 1 serving "Tan Velvet" protein frozen yogurt. This protein fro-yo is reminiscent of Maggie Moo's Red Velvet ice cream (one of my pre-op favorites) because of its light chocolate flavor with a hint of cream cheese. I was just messing around and didn't set out to create this flavor, so I didn't have red food coloring on hand. I used 4 scoops of Inspire ice cream sandwich, 2 cups nonfat Fage, 1/2 box SF Jello cheesecake pudding, 1/2 cup sugar-free vanilla syrup, 1/2 cup sugar-free chocolate syrup, about 1/3 cup sugar-free cookie dough syrup, 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa. I divide it into 6 equal servings. (134 kcals, 26.5g protein, 6.5g net carbs)
  • 1 serving Classic Tuna and Pea Loaf with Cheddar Sauce, from Meatloaf Revolution (101 kcals, 14.6g protein, 6.3g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate chew in lemon - yum-a-lum (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 Celebrate iron (5 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
791 kcals
120.6g protein
61.0% kcals from prtein
49g net carbs
24.8% kcals from net carbs.

Today was a planned rest day, and getting to sleep in felt wonderful. It's super-late and I'm just getting to bed, so tomorrow is probably a miss as well. That is unfortunate, but I know I'll get back to normal soon. I'm just a bit freaked out with all that I have going on. That's not an excuse, I know :-/

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

What I Ate: 11/4/2009

  • 2/3 pumpkin "Muffin in a Minute" (110 kcals, 8g protein, 1g net carbs) with 1 Monica's Fall Pumpkin and Bacon Chicken Meatball (25 kcals, 4g protein, 0.8g net carbs)
  • 4 "Shelly's bites" with turkey bacon, mushrooms, Jarlsberg lite emmentaler, and chives (100 kcals, 13.2g protein, 1.2g net carbs), and 0.5 oz. Jarlsberg lite emmentaler on the side (35 kcals, 4.5g protein, 0g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1.5 oz. (1/2 slice) Meatloaf Masala with Spiced Tomato Chutney (inaugural recipe of the Meatloaf Revolution - will link soon) (38 kcals, 4.7g protein, 2.5g net carbs) and 2.5 oz. (1 slice) Meatloaf Caprese with Balsamic Reduction (110 kcals, 14.5g protein, 4.7g net carbs)
  • My last serving of pumpkin-Inspire peanut butter cookie protein fro-yo :-( - so long, it was yummy! (143 kcals, 23.5g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
762 kcals
97.4g protein
51.1% kcals from protein
35.7g net carbs
18.7% kcals from net carbs.
I went 38 minutes on the elliptical this morning, for a total distance of a little over 2.5 miles and alleged calorie-burn of 350 calories. The next couple weeks (esp. the next few days) are insane for me, so the workouts might be a little shorter. I figure that as long as I remain consistent, it will be fine.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

What I Ate: 11/3/2009

  • 2/3 pumpkin "Muffin in a Minute" (110 kcals, 8g protein, 1g net carbs) with 1 Monica's Fall Pumpkin and Bacon Chicken Meatball (25 kcals, 4g protein, 0.8g net carbs)
  • 1 hard-boiled egg (70 kcals, 6g protein, 0g carbs) with 1 oz. Jarlsberg lite emmentaler (70 kcals, 9g protein, 0g carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 4.5 oz. steamed shrimp (126 kcals, 26.7g protein, 0g carbs)
  • 0.5 oz. steamed shrimp (14 kcals, 2.9g protein) and about 1/2 cup steamed vegetables, mostly sugar snap peas (25 kcals, 1.5g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • Peanut butter cookie-pumpkin protein frozen yogurt scrumptiousness (143 kcals, 23.5g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • About 3 water mix-ins (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
784 kcals
106.6g protein
54.4% kcals from protein
28.8g net carbs
14.7% kcals from net carbs.
I planned for a lighter workout today; I want to vary my workouts a bit more so I work the muscles in different directions. Thus, I did the Leslie Sansone 2-mile Walk Away the Pounds dvd early this morning.

Monday, November 2, 2009

What I Ate: 11/2/2009

  • 2/3 pumpkin "Muffin in a Minute" (110 kcals, 8g protein, 1g net carbs) with 1 Monica's Fall Pumpkin and Bacon Chicken Meatball (25 kcals, 4g protein, 0.8g net carbs)
  • 1 hard-boiled egg (70 kcals, 6g protein, 0g carbs) with 1 oz. Jarlsberg lite emmentaler (70 kcals, 9g protein, 0g carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 3.5 oz steamed shrimp (98 kcals, 20.7g protein, 0g carbs) and about 3/4 cups steamed vegetables, mostly broccoli (25 kcals, 1.5g protein, 1.5g net carbs)
  • Peanut butter cookie-pumpkin protein frozen yogurt scrumptiousness (143 kcals, 23.5g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 1 Calcet calcium citrate creamy bite (40 kcals, 6g net carbs)
  • About 3 water mix-ins (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
742 kcals
97.7g protein
52.7% kcals from protein
28.8g net carbs
15.5% kcals from net carbs.

I probably could have done a little better on calories, but I did well on protein and great on net carbs. So, I'm pleased with this.

I did 65 minutes on the elliptical today, and it was a great workout.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

What I Ate: 11/1/2009

  • 4 "Shelly's bites" with turkey bacon, mushrooms, Jarlsberg lite emmentaler, and chives (100 kcals, 13.2g protein, 1.2g net carbs)
  • 1 bag Revival baked soy crisps in BBQ flavor - I was stuck at the office and had these. I try to eat them only rarely because of the relatively high carb content, but I was starving and didn't bring any food with me because I didn't expect to be there that long. (105 kcals, 7g protein, 13g net carbs)
  • 4 large raw cashews - I can only handle a few of these at a time, and probably should have stopped at 3 (about 45 kcals, 1g protein, 2.5g net carbs)
  • 1 scoop Isopure dutch chocolate with iced decaf, SF chocolate and vanilla syrup, Truvia, and 1 tbsp. Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (121 kcals, 25g protein, 6g net carbs)
  • 1 Boca vegan patty (70 kcals, 13g protein, 2g net carbs) with 0.5 oz. Jarlsberg lite emmentaler melted on top (35 kcals, 4.5g protein, 0g net carbs) and 1 cup (raw; it's much less when cooked!) oven-crisped okra (30 kcals, 2g protein, 4g net carbs)
  • Pumpkin-Inspire peanut butter cookie protein fro-yo (143 kcals, 23.5g protein, 5g net carbs)
  • 2 Celebrate orange multivitamins (10 kcals, 1g net carbs)
  • 3 pouches of sugar-free drink mix (30 kcals, 7.5g net carbs)
Total:
689 kcals
89.2g protein (a little low for me)
51.8g kcals from protein
42.2g net carbs
24.5% kcals from net carbs.
For activity, I did a 30-minute Leslie Sansone video - nothing too demanding, but it was a good workout. I tried the "Walk and Kick," which is a blend of walk aerobics and very light kickboxing. It was a fun way to mix up the Leslie Sansone workouts, and I got a little bit of a sweat going.

Weight Update: 11/1/2009

So, I'm not even supposed to be weighing myself.

However, I abandoned the no-scale challenge last Sunday. I was getting antsy, and felt that my attitude toward the scale had improved after nearly two weeks away from it. I feel that my self-discipline can be reserved for other efforts, like exercise.

I won't go back to weighing myself every day for now, but I think it will be healthy to weigh myself once a week. I keep the scale in the upper back corner of my closet and only take it out for my specific weigh-ins. It's remarkable how much more stable my attitude toward food has become now that I'm not weighing myself 1+ times a day.

Results: Last week, I was 214.1. This week, I was 210.4. This puts me only 1.4 pounds from my lowest weight as an adult, 209, which is what I weighed at the very beginning of law school. Crazy . . . ! And interesting, because I didn't think I was going to lose any weight this week.