Are You Aware Of The Benefits Of Bariatric Protein Powder?

dreamstime_xxl_51748043Once you have weight reduction surgery, you need to consume a certain amount of nutrients to stay on the path of being healthy. One of the nutrients that need to be consumed daily is protein. Now that you’ve gone through bariatric surgery, it’s important to focus on a new dietary plan. It can be hard to adjust, but your nutritionist and bariatric surgeon probably told you why there are dietary restrictions and what foods need to be consumed. To help you stay on track, there are many foods that you can try, but there are also protein powder shakes to give you the nutrients you need in smaller portions. Portion control can be hard to maintain, but by exploring the wonderful world of bariatric protein powder you can hit your nutrient goals everyday, stay full, and continue on your path of being healthy and losing weight.

What is Bariatric Protein Powder?

Not all protein powders are good for bariatric patients, which is why there are specific protein powders people who have gone through bariatric surgery prefer to consume.  Some protein powders have too much sugar – something that should be avoided.  It’s important to always read nutrition labels to be sure you know how much you’re drinking.  Bariatric protein powder is geared toward post-op patients who need to meet their nutrient requirements.  Ideally, look for protein powders that have at minimum 20 grams of good quality protein and fewer than 10 grams of sugar. Remember to keep it simple; it’s okay to add some fruits, and other ingredients, but be aware of your intake, and don’t overdo it.

dreamstime_xxl_50656252Why Use Bariatric Protein Powder?

Because your stomach size is reduced, you are only able to consume a certain amount of food.  You want to maximize your intake with the best quality ingredients and wholesome foods.  Protein shakes are easy and filling: all you have to do is make the shake.  Make one in the morning, and then take it to work with you, or drink it after a long day when you aren’t up for cooking dinner. However you look at it, bariatric protein powders are geared for post-op patients and work well to help you meet your protein requirements.

There are many protein powders out there, so you’ll be able to find you what you like. We offer a few of our favorites in the office, and our nutritionist Megan Wolf can walk you through the benefits of each.

Do you live in the New York area and are interested in weight loss or bariatric surgery? At Weight Zen, we offer a few weight reduction surgeries to help you get your life back. To make an appointment or to learn more, call [uxi_button link=”2122032146″ new_window=”0″ tel=”1″ class=”button-block-mobile button-32″ padding_x=”” padding_y=”” text=”(866) 429-5961″ text_size=”14″ text_size_mobile=”” text_font=”header-font” sub_text=”” sub_text_size=”12″ sub_text_size_mobile=”” sub_text_font=”header-font” icon=”” icon_size=”12″ icon_size_mobile=”” icon_align=””].

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Five Super-Healthy Foods To Try

Now, that you’ve gone through bariatric surgery or if you are gearing up for bariatric surgery and need to lose some weight, you probably aren’t sure what to eat. At Weight Zen, we love food – so today, we’d like to share some healthy foods that are both delicious and nutritious.

Five Must-Try Healthy Foodsdreamstime_xxl_1992777

These foods are just an introduction to all of the other yummy and healthy foods that you can try now that you are exploring healthy foods. It might be hard to get into the habit of staying away from oily, fatty foods, but in no time you’ll realize how much better, healthier, and tastier eating healthy is.

Coconut

Coconut is big right now; there’s coconut water, oil, and flour. Coconut flour is a great substitute for white flour and is a healthy way to add nutrients and flavor to baked goods. There are many health benefits of eating coconut too. Coconut flour boasts five grams of fiber per every two tablespoons with an additional limited amount of saturated fat. Coconut flour is naturally gluten-free and may help stabilize blood sugar.

Salmon

Rich in heart-healthy fats and lean protein, salmon is a perfect choice. Raw or cooked, it cannot be beat. Especially good for postoperative patients, salmon is soft and filled with protein. If possible, look for wild varieties in your local market. Fresh or frozen, you really cannot go wrong!

dreamstime_xxl_38437127Skyr

What is skyr? It’s yogurt that’s similar to Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is delicious and can be used in baked goods and smoothies, as sour cream, and even as a dessert with some fruit and honey. Skyr and Greek yogurt have a pretty similar texture and similar nutrients. Look for skyr at your local world market, and try it out to see how you like it.

Seaweed

If you’re a sushi lover, then you’ve likely tried seaweed before. Especially popular in seaweed salads and as a wrapping on sushi rolls, seaweed is common in Japanese cooking. Seaweed has potassium, iodine, and iron. It is salty but not overpowering and it can be enjoyed in many different ways. Seaweed salad, seaweed in smoothies, seaweed instead of potato chips, or in soups are all must-tries. Check out the flakes or dried strips and sheets in your local supermarket.

Amaranth

What is amaranth? It’s quinoa’s lesser known cousin. It is a newly popular whole grain; iron, zinc, protein, calcium, and magnesium are all featured in this lesser-known grain. Native to Central America, it has been used for up to 8,000 years. Amaranth, when cooked, is thick and oatmeal like, so it works as a great thickener. Try amaranth in soups, oatmeal, stews, and even pudding to add some healthiness to your desserts. Similar to quinoa, is can be found in natural-foods stores or a very well-stocked supermarket. You can also find a delicious amaranth recipe in our nutritionist Megan Wolf’s new cookbook Great Meals with Greens and Grains!

Are you interested help controlling your weight or in weight loss surgery? Learn more about Weight Zen and how you can start living a healthier life by contacting us today!

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More Tips To Kick Bad Habits After Bariatric Surgery

In our last blog, we began to cover some of our favorite tips we love giving patients who struggle with staying motivated with their weight loss efforts after undergoing bariatric surgery at Weight Zen in New York. Today, we’re back with a few more helpful tips to help you kick those bad habits once and for all.

More Tips To Kick Bad Habits After Weight Loss Surgery

Plan your meals

Plan all of your meals around a solid source of lean protein, such as salmon, tuna or chicken. Then, pair your protein with low-starch veggies such as asparagus or green beans. Don’t hesitate to utilize seasonings, such as dry rubs and spices, to keep your meals exciting and to add some variety.

Trash the triggers

Kick your food triggers out of the house for good. If it’s hard for you, ask your family members or a close friend to help you by keeping tempting foods in another cabinet or even putting them in another fridge out in the garage.

Create a support system

Call a family or friend meeting where you have an honest conversation with everyone about which foods you need to stay away from and which ones are okay for you. When you cut back on refined starchy foods and sweets, it will be hard at first, but stay the course and drink plenty of water. You’ll notice positive results and begin feeling better day by day. You’ll be so happy you stuck it out!

If you’re struggling to stay the course with your weight loss efforts, contact Weight Zen today, and let us help you kick those bad habits with our support groups and multidisciplinary approaches.

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Tips To Get Rid Of Bad Habits After Bariatric Surgery

It’s easy for old habits to creep back in.  Whether you’ve already undergone bariatric surgery in New York at Weight Zen, or you’re simply considering it, it’s important to understand this concept. Life after weight loss surgery still required hard work and determination to lead a healthy life.  You’ll need to stay motivated in order to keep up with healthy habits.

Today, we’re going to give you some tips to finding a balance within your family, work, and health so that bad habits don’t creep back in and ruin all your hard work.

Tips To Get Rid Of Bad Habits For Good After Bariatric Surgery

Want to let go of those bad habits? Not sure how? Follow these tips to move forward with healthy habits!

Re-ignite your motivation.

What is the catalyst that keeps you moving forward? What drives you? If you have a beautiful vacation coming up, you’re more likely to stick to your guns for those upcoming beach days, right? Perhaps the motivation that brought you success for things like vacations and jobs in the past is what can still drive you forward now. However, it may be possible that the catalyst has changed or doesn’t motivate you in the same way. That means it’s time to find a new motivator to spur you into action! Ask your post-bariatric friends on Facebook how they stay focused, speak to Dr. Rosen or Nutritionist Megan Wolf, or join one of our support groups here at Weight Zen.

Set a realistic plan for yourself.

Most people don’t follow through with their New Year’s Resolution plans because they aren’t realistic. It works the same way with weight loss goals after bariatric surgery! Your realistic weight loss plan should absolutely include meal planning so that you can plan ahead for busy days and stressful events. This will ensure that you’re eating the best foods for your body and that you’ll be able to keep your blinders up when temptations arise. We’ve all forgotten to pack a lunch for work and felt ravenous throughout the afternoon. Stay one step ahead of the game and your hunger by meal planning and setting realistic goals.  Nutritionist Megan Wolf can help you set a great meal plan.

Focus on your four key areas.

When we see patients who have fallen off the weight loss bandwagon after bariatric surgery, we always encourage them to focus on the following four key areas:

Water

While water is certainly easier to drink for some more than others, we encourage our patients to take small dips all day long.  Water is cheapest but so valuable.  Drink water more often, and you’ll find that you aren’t as hungry as you may have thought you were.  Additionally, it’s important to remember that we can confuse the feelings hunger and thirst.  Because of this, Nutritionist Megan Wolf always suggests that our patients drink water if they aren’t sure if they are hungry or not.  We want you to drink when thirsty, and eat when hungry – not eat when thirsty.

Meal structure

The second area we suggest focusing on is establishing a routine meal structure. While we know life happens and it’s not always possible to hold to your routine, you should still make every attempt to do so. Have you become relaxed about breakfast? Put your car keys in the fridge next to your cheese stick so you don’t forget to eat it. Make sure you’re consuming breakfast within the first 90 minutes of waking each day to keep your metabolism going and help control blood sugar and hunger.

Food choices and protein

Never underestimate how beneficial it is for you to make the best possible food choices. We recommend protein at every meal and snack.  While we hate the word fail – and would never use it when describing our patients – the old saying, “failure to plan is planning to fail” is very true in regards to any type of weight loss plan. If you want to see serious results, you have to make changes. Set days to make your meal plans, cook, and stick to them.

Exercise

Once you’re able to exercise after your bariatric surgery, start doing so. We see all patients 10 days after surgery and Dr. Rosen will clear you for exercise when you are ready.  Exercise schedules are also extremely important when it comes to weight loss plans because it’s not going to happen by accident. If you want to get back on track with your weight loss, set an exercise schedule, and stick to it. Having a hard time finding motivation? Hire a personal trainer – an incredibly worthwhile investment.

Consult With Your Bariatric Surgeon or Nutritonist If You’re Struggling With Bad Habits

If you’re struggling with bad habits after your bariatric surgery, we encourage you to contact us. We have a commitment to helping you with your weight loss needs, and that’s why we offer multidisciplinary therapies and support groups to leave no stone unturned when it comes to giving you the weight loss help you deserve.

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Are You A Candidate For Weight Loss Surgery?

dreamstime_xxl_39116267Here at Weight Zen, Dr. Rosen has helped hundreds of patients who suffer from obesity and weight control issues achieve a healthier life. We receive many calls from potential weight loss surgery candidates who are simply unsure about whether they are a candidate for bariatric surgery in New York. Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the basic standards of the ideal bariatric surgery candidate.

Are You A Candidate For Bariatric Surgery?

If you’re significantly overweight and you’re looking to make a lifestyle change, you may be the perfect candidate for bariatric surgery at Weight Zen. Research supports the advantages of bariatric surgery for people who have a BMI between 35 and 39.9 with obesity-related health issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and other obesity-related health conditions. You could be a candidate for bariatric surgery if you meet any of the following criteria:

  • You weigh more than 100 pounds of your ideal body weight.
  • You have a BMI of more than 40.
  • Your BMI is more than 35, and you experience severe negative health effects, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, due to being severely overweight.
  • You’re unable to achieve your weight goals for any sustained period of time even though you’re on a medically-supervised diet.

Are you interested in how to proceed from here? Do you want to schedule a consultation with Megan Wolf, our New York nutritionist or Dr. Rosen, our New York bariatric surgeon? Contact us today to get started. We look forward to connecting with you and helping you achieve better health.

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What You Thought You Knew About Weight Loss Surgery

Exploring the Myths & Misconceptions of Gastric Bypass, Lap Band & Gastric Sleeve Surgery

weight loss surgery in New York City Though the number of bariatric surgeries performed in the United States grew in in recent years to almost 180,000 procedures a year, the number of qualifying patients that actually undergo these life-changing surgeries remains at less than one percent, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). With weight loss surgeries proving themselves to be viable, delivering consistently improved long-term results, they remain vastly under-utilized. With a large portion of our population experiencing the symptoms of obesity, why are so few of us choosing to undergo this type of treatment for obesity? Why would so few patients avoid the prospect of surgery when it means a healthier future? The misconceptions that continue to plague the procedures could reveal that answer.

Unfortunately, many of those who could benefit from gastric bypass surgery or another form of bariatric surgery never get past the first stage because of these myths. In an effort to eradicate these misconceptions, we’d like to offer the real facts on weight loss surgery.

The most commonly-held myths about gastric surgery include:

MYTH: Bariatric surgery is just another quick fix with short-lasting results

– FACT: Weight loss surgery should never be entered lightly as it is not a cosmetic procedure that promises out-of-the-world results. It is a serious medical procedure that, when treated properly with aftercare and a change in lifestyle, can deliver life-changing (and life-long) results that benefit the patient by providing relief from a variety of symptoms linked to obesity.

MYTH: Weight loss surgeries are extremely dangerous

– FACT: No invasive surgery or medical procedure is without its risks. Complications can arise with gastric bypass, gastric sleeve or Lap-Band surgery, but they don’t occur at any higher rates than other types of surgeries. With the technological innovations made within the last few years, the occurrence of these complications have dropped significantly and healing time, recovery and pain levels have all been minimized.  Additionally, Dr. Rosen is an expert in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.  This means we use very small incisions: smaller cuts, faster healing.

MYTH: Those who undergo these surgeries become malnourished afterward

 – FACT: Patients who follow Dr. Rosen’s and Megan’s advice regarding nutrition and meal planning experience little to no issues with nutritional values. Where there is a decrease in the natural absorption of vitamins and minerals, today’s nutritional guidance helps patients lead healthy, balanced and robust lives.

MYTH: Insurance won’t pay for weight loss surgery

 – FACT: Though the amount of coverage does change between providers and states, many plans do cover weight loss surgeries now. Before scheduling surgery it is important to know exactly what is covered and what is not. Some insurance providers only pay for surgery for those who meet certain health risk requirements. Others will cover bariatric surgery for those who are medically considered obese. Insurance verification is an important step in your care and we are here to help you.

Before you undergo any serious procedure, educate yourself by doing research and asking your doctor and nutritionist any questions you have. Protect yourself by finding out all the information you can, and hopefully using only reliable and trustworthy sources. As a highly respected bariatric clinic in New York City, we strive to ensure our patient’s complete confidence by fully educating them throughout the process, working to remain as transparent and patient-focused as possible. If you believe you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery, call us now for a confidential and comprehensive consultation. We’d be happy to help you start your own personal path to optimal health and wellness.

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Bariatric Surgery Options Explained

Weight Zen’s Beneficial Weight Loss Surgery Methods

Once labeled as a quick and extreme fix to obesity, bariatric surgeries are now accepted and viable methods for weight loss. The variety of surgery options that are now available prove the credibility of the procedures. With each type of procedure delivering a variety of health benefits, bariatric surgeries help hundreds of thousands of Americans every year.

The Most Common Bariatric Surgeries include:

Gastric Bypass

Though gaining popularity during the last two decades, the procedure was actually developed and introduced during the 1960’s. After observing unintended weight loss in patients who had a portion of their stomach removed due to ulcers, surgeons based gastric bypass on this phenomena. It is the most commonly performed weight loss surgery in the world.

Currently the procedure uses the Roux-en-Y limb of intestine. The process involves two components. First the top of the stomach is divided from the rest and a pouch is made from that portion that is approximately on ounce in size. The small intestine is then bisected, with the bottom end brought up and connected to the stomach pouch. The disconnected top portion of the small intestine is then connected to a section of the same organ further down the intestine line. This allows the needed acids and enzymes to mix with ingested food for proper digestion.

Gastric bypass surgery offers significant long-term weight loss by restricting the amount that one can consume and through gut hormone changes that reduce appetite. Results often show a loss of 60 to 80 percent of excess weight.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Removing 80 percent of the stomach, sleeve gastrectomy surgery leaves a stomach pouch that is shaped much like a sleeve or banana. Like gastric bypass, the sleeve helps restrict food volumes but this weight loss surgery’s optimal results stem from the effect it has on gut hormones. Patients enjoy quick, significant weight loss without having to bypass of the food stream or the placement of foreign objects.

Adjustable Gastric Band

Using an inflatable band, the stomach capacity is reduced significantly with Lap-Band or gastric banding surgery. The procedure causes no malabsorption as the food is digested and absorbed as it normally would be. One major advantage that Lap-Band surgery has over other procedures is that no cutting of the stomach or rerouting of the intestines is required. Some patients are able to return home the same day as the procedure and, with the band being adjustable and removable, patients are able to adjust or even reverse the surgery if needed.

Weight Zen is the comprehensive weight management program run by Dr. Daniel J. Rosen. Offering educational courses, nutrition counseling, wellness workshops and weight loss surgery in order to help others achieve a healthier way of life through whole body wellness. Find out more about why we’re a Top Rated Local® bariatric surgeon in New York by reading what our patients have to say about us.

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Three Diets You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

dreamstime_xxl_15116074Food is one of the best parts of life. There are so many options no matter what you like. After your surgery, your bariatric surgeon and nutritionist probably told you what you could and could not eat. You likely went over a plan for food, but what about when you are finally back to eating a “normal” diet? Below are a few diets you may not have heard of, but may be just the diet you need in your life. Even if you haven’t gone through bariatric surgery, consider these three diets.

The DASH Diet

The DASH diet was originally designed to help lower blood pressure. If you are overweight and suffering from high blood, you may consider trying the DASH diet for weight control. This plant based diet has a heavy emphasis on fruits, vegetables, and is balanced with the appropriate amount of protein. . If you have high blood pressure, consider taking advantage of this diet. The DASH diet is one you can follow for the rest of your life.

The TLC Diet

Does cardiovascular disease run in your family? Do you have heart problems? This diet was created by the American Heart Association to help decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This diet is based on reducing saturated fat in your diet. Saturated fat, is found in whole-milk dairy, butter, cheeses and fried foods. When you eat too much saturated fat, your cholesterol increases too, which can lead to cardiovascular issues.  The TLC diet helps to limit your saturated fat intake which can help to control cholesterol.

dreamstime_xxl_38437127The MIND Diet

If you’re worried about developing Alzheimer’s, want to prevent Alzheimer’s from happening to you and your family, or simply to enhance your brain function with certain healthy foods, this diet may be for you! The MIND diet may lower your risk for cognitive decline.  This diet focuses on the ten brain healthy food groups: leafy vegetables, vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. If you want to work on strengthening your mind and your heart, this diet might just be perfect for you.

At Weight Zen, located in New York, we want you to have the body and mind you’ve always imagined. If you are looking for weight loss surgery, weight loss or  general health and wellness, Weight Zen can help you. Contact us today to begin changing your life.

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The Mediterranean Diet

dreamstime_xxl_60747427You may or may not have heard about the Mediterranean Diet. This diet has recently become more and more popular. After you’ve had your bariatric surgery at Weight Zen, located in the heart of New York City, you probably talked to your bariatric surgeon and nutritionist about what foods you can consume and what you can’t. As you acclimate back to eating a normal diet, or if you want to try dieting before you turn to weight loss surgery, you may consider this diet.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

This diet is seen as one of the healthiest diets because of what it focuses on. The Mediterranean diet is the diet that is consumed in the Mediterranean in countries such as Greece, Turkey, Albania, Croatia, Israel, Syria, Tunisia, Slovenia, Monaco, Morocco, Libya, and other countries are located.

What Foods Are Involved in the Mediterranean Diet?

The foods that are involved in this diet are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and legumes. For protein, lean protein is chosen such as fish and poultry versus the red meat that the American diet is heavily focused on. Red meat also has saturated fat, which is what leads to heart problems. Red wine is included in moderate amounts. When you shop for this diet – and other healthy diets like it –  make sure to stay on the perimeter of the grocery store. You may have noticed when you go to the grocery store, most of the healthiest foods are on the edge of the store versus the inside. If you find yourself with lots of junk food in your cart, try to stay away from the aisles and only shop on the edge of the store where the vegetables, poultry, and fruits are offered.

dreamstime_l_14561359Why Should I Consider This?

Research shows the benefits of eating a Mediterranean diet. Weight loss, decrease in depression, and control of blood glucose levels, are all positive outcomes when following a Mediterranean diet. In addition, there have cases of reduction in heart and Alzheimer’s disease.

If you need to control your weight or have just went through bariatric surgery, then you may want to consider this diet. If you are in need of weight loss surgery or want more information, reach out today to schedule a consultation.

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The Importance Of Portion Control After Your Bariatric Surgery

dreamstime_xxl_60221814

Dr. Rosen has helped countless patients reach their weight loss goals while also improving their overall health and wellness through bariatric surgery in New York at Weight Zen. This is all possible due to his focus on state-of-the-art bariatric surgical treatment coupled with exceptional guidance and advice after the weight loss surgery is performed. With this in mind, we’re going to take a look at the importance of portion control after bariatric surgery.

Portion Control Is Key To Wellness And Weight Loss

After undergoing any kind of weight loss surgery, it’s imperative that you eat your meals in small portions.  Our Nutritionist Megan Wolf suggests “small, frequent meals.” This will help ensure that you’re eating until you’re full but not eating more than what your stomach can handle. It’s important to find a balance, and small portions are a great way to find and maintain this balance.

Don’t Overeat

Overeating is a serious and legitimate concern after bariatric surgery. If you overeat after your weight loss surgery, you may be slowly stretching your stomach back out over time, which means you’re undoing the work of your surgeon. This is just one of the ways in which patients can actually regain unwanted weight after their bariatric surgeries.

In addition to stretching out your stomach and undoing your bariatric surgeon’s work, an immediate concern is suffering from stomach pain and indigestion. If you overeat after your weight loss surgery, you might end up feeling nauseous and could possible vomit. Avoid the pain by eating small portions of food throughout the day.

Savor Your Food

A great way to avoid overeating is to really savor your small portions. Eat them slowly, and chew everything thoroughly. There’s no rush in eating, right? Savoring your food will help prevent indigestion issues, and by taking your time, you’ll be able to know precisely when you’re full and it’s time to stop eating.

Consider The Size Of Your Plate

While it may seem farfetched, you can actually mentally trick your brain and appetite by utilizing smaller plates and bowls. Eating your small portions slowly helps you feel full, and it’s obviously a great way to help with any problems associated with controlling your portions.

Don’t Drink When Eating

Another important thing to remember after you’ve undergone bariatric surgery is that you should not drink liquids at the same time you’re eating. Drinking while eating will only make you feel full without actually ingesting a meal, which means you won’t be getting the nutrients your body needs. Weight loss is great, but you want to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need each and every day, which means you must eat full meals.

Pay Attention To Your Body

Obviously, every body is different. The most important thing is that you must pay attention to your body and its needs. If you notice hunger, pain, or any other issues as you adjust after your bariatric surgery, be mindful and try to pinpoint what is causing these things to occur. Paying attention and making needed adjustments will help you lose weight while feeling great the entire time.

Contact Weight Zen

If you’re struggling with portion control or any other factors after your bariatric surgery in New York, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Rosen and nutritionist Megan Wolf at Weight Zen for assistance.

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