Reviews

Website and product reviews

Episode 124: The BTV Bling Shirt is Here!

Posted by on May 12, 2011 in Food issues, Honeymoon Period, Reviews | 5 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we have a Drop Zone Freak who’s gots new knees. In the Dumping Ground segment we take a look at how to break that mother of all stalls. Then, in Altered Reality, we discuss how to stay hydrated while on the airplane during your summer vacation. Finally, we wrap things up in the Freak On segment by revealing the BTV Bling Shirt.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Bob Moulton.
  • Are you in the mother of all weight loss stalls?
  • Everyone stalls after weight loss surgery.
  • Don’t stress out! That could really derail your efforts.
  • Try changing things up a bit, this could break your stall.
  • Are you moving yo ass? Really, are you?
  • You have to find the right exercise to work for your circumstances.
  • Journaling what you’re eating can help.
  • If you’re doing everything you’re supposed to and still stalling, talk to your doctor.
  • Flying can lead to dehydration.
  • Dehydration can lead to all sorts of problems.
  • Drink tons of water the day before you travel, avoid coffee, tea and soda.
  • Moisturize your skin the morning of your flight.
  • Sip water during your flight.
  • Bring a TSA approved bottle of moisturizer to apply during your flight.
  • Once you arrive take a long shower or a dip in the pool
  • We introduce the BTV Bling Shirt!
  • We’ll have BTV Bling Shirts in Las Vegas and in the BTV Store when we return!

LINKS

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Episode 123: Congratulations and Fgoff

Posted by on May 5, 2011 in Food issues, Honeymoon Period, Reviews | 10 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we have a Drop Zone Freak who’s a trophy wife. In the Dumping Ground segment we announce the winners of our Spring Forum Membership Drive contest. Then, in Altered Reality, we discuss eating fruit after weight loss surgery. Finally, we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a review of a splendidly swell website from The Sangria Sisters.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Sher Pindel.
  • We announce the winners of our Spring Forum Membership Drive contest.
  • With this contest done it’s time for another one!
  • Help us to help the Obesity Action Coalition reach 50,000 members by joining.
  • The OAC is working towards 50,000 members as that will help open doors for them (and us) in Washington.
  • By joining you will be entered into our contest to win a Keurig Gourmet Coffee System.
  • You can also be entered to win by renewing your membership.
  • When you sign up to join the OAC use Membership Code BTV2011
  • We’ve heard this question a lot – “Can I eat fruit after weight loss surgery?”
  • We give you a list of a few fruits to avoid right after surgery.
  • Once you’re a little ways out from surgery you should add fruit to your diet.
  • Fruit is packed with water and fiber.
  • Remember that fruit is high in natural sugars, and although it’s natural you could still dump if you’ve had an RNY.
  • We do a review a website from best friends that call themselves The Sangria Sisters

LINKS

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Episode 122: Getting Salty

Posted by on Apr 28, 2011 in Pre-Op, Psychological Issues, Reviews | 7 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we have a Drop Zone Freak who wants to live. In the Dumping Ground segment we discuss some things we learned about insurance coverage for weight loss surgery while in New York. Then, in Altered Reality, we ask if fear is holding you back from surgery. Finally, we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a review of a new flavor infused salt product that can really spice up your dishes.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Maria Canella.
  • Bariatric surgery is covered by more than 55% of large employer’s insurance plans, 100% covered by Medicare, and in all but 6 states it’s covered by Medicaid.
  • Many people are afraid to look into this coverage.
  • The Obesity Action Coalition has put together a great document called “Working With Your Insurance Provider”
  • The document will also give you information on how to deal with being denied insurance coverage for weight loss surgery.
  • On average it takes a morbidly obese person 2 years to attend a weight loss surgery seminar.
  • We think it could be fear that’s keeping people from going.
  • Some pre ops may be afraid of the danger involved in having surgery.
  • Weight loss surgery is safer than an appendectomy
  • You should go to a Bariatric Center of Excellence
  • We do a review of a tasty new flavor infused salt product.

LINKS

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Episode 121: Post Bariatric Choppers

Posted by on Apr 22, 2011 in Honeymoon Period, Pre-Op, Reviews | 11 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we have a Drop Zone Freak who has changed her perception. In the Dumping Ground segment we discuss caring for your teeth after weight loss surgery. Then, in Altered Reality, we offer up a few tips on dealing with the first few weeks after surgery. Finally, we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a review of a new web site that we learned about during our recent trip to New York.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Sally Wimberley or as she’s known on YouTube, Cabernetqueen.
  • Have you considered how your tooth care may change after bariatric surgery?
  • Lynnda’s dentist has mentioned that he’s seen some big problems with some post weight loss surgery patients.
  • If you don’t keep up on your calcium supplements it could lead to bone loss, which could lead to tooth loss.
  • After weight loss surgery your saliva can be more acidic. This could lead to erroding the enamel on your teeth.
  • Seeing your dentist twice a year is even more important after weight loss surgery.
  • We share a few tips to help you in the weeks right after surgery.
  • There’s no way you’ll be able to get in all your water, vitamins and protein right after surgery.
  • Concentrate on staying hydrated
  • Give it a little time before rushing right back into your daily routine.
  • You may have trouble “Picking Flowers” after surgery.
  • Don’t rush your food plan, you may wind up developing some bad habits.
  • Take pictures and measurements so you have something to compare to when you hit a stall – And you WILL stall.
  • Don’t play the comparison game.
  • Do not try to push your limits once you’re eating regularly.
  • Please contact your doctor if you’re experiencing pain.
  • You WILL have emotional mood swings, it’s normal!
  • Find a protein and vitamin supplement you like
  • Keep one piece of your big clothes, it will help you on the days when you need some inspiration.
  • We do a review of heartonmysleeveblog.com

LINKS

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Episode 119: Bariatric Birdies

Posted by on Apr 7, 2011 in Honeymoon Period, Pre-Op, Reviews | 6 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we feature some Drop Zone Freaks who are no longer spectators in life. In the Dumping Ground segment Toni talks about a small side effect of her surgery that’s made her into Barometer Bird. Then, in Altered Reality, we take a look at weight loss surgery for teens. What are your thoughts on it? Finally, we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a review of Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacements.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment feature Sean and Jeanine Guilday.
  • Toni makes an observation that after weight loss surgery she’s a Barometer Bird.
  • Toni get’s these little air bubbles that come up from her pouch and make an audible Squeeeeeech!
  • If you are experiencing this after your weight loss surgery please let Toni know.
  • What are your thoughts on weight loss surgery for teens?
  • Most doctors don’t want to perform surgery on teens.
  • Dr. Thomas Inge of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital has a few thoughts on weight loss surgery for teens.
  • We do a quick reviews of Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacements.

LINKS

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Episode 116: Portion Distortion in Fooderica

Posted by on Mar 17, 2011 in Food issues, Long Term, Reviews | 10 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we feature our first revision Drop Zone Freak. In the Dumping Ground we take a look at portion distortion in Fooderica. Then, in Altered Reality, we talk about reactive hypoglycemia in long term post ops. Finally, we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a gal that’s providing positive support for lap band patients.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Leslie, but you may know her as Punkbright.
  • Are you suffering from portion distortion?
  • Over time the portions of food we are being served has grown drastically.
  • Is this increase in portion due to the food industry selling you larger and larger portions of food?
  • In Fooderica everything is bigger.
  • Fooderica citizen 76521 needs a bit of reprogramming
  • We take a look at how food portions have increased in the last 20 years.
  • So what does a normal portion of food look like?
  • If you’re feeling sleepy and weak between meals you might be experiencing Reactive Hypoglycemia
  • Reactive Hypoglycemia is caused by low sugar in the blood.
  • Reactive Hypoglycemia can be confused with dumping syndrome.
  • If you are experiencing this go see your doctor to get a diagnosis.
  • We introduce you to Tamika Bryant.
  • Tamika is a lapband patient who is full of positive support

LINKS

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Episode 113: SUPNET

Posted by on Feb 24, 2011 in Psychological Issues, Reviews | 19 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we feature a Drop Zone Freak who’s also a jewelry designer. In the Dumping Ground we review a website that one of our viewers suggested that’s all about walking with buddies. Then in Altered Reality we take a look the ongoing discussion around whether obesity is a disease. And we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a dramatic look at Building Blocks Vitamins new Black Raspberry Calcium Chewables.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Patricia Miller.
  • One of our viewers suggested we take a look at WLSWalkingBuddies.com
  • WLS Walking Buddies is a group that uses a common pedometer to track their steps each month
  • They give out 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards each month
  • They also offer a most improved winner each month
  • They have a traveling trophy that goes to the first place winner each month.
  • Is obesity a disease or not?
  • Even the medical community can’t agree on the question of obesity being a disease.
  • We do a dramatic review of Building Blocks Vitamins new Black Raspberry Calcium Chewables.
  • Are your loved ones stealing your supplements?
  • You may need to call SUPNET

LINKS

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Episode 111: The Sunshine Vitamin

Posted by on Feb 10, 2011 in Long Term, Reviews | 6 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we feature a Drop Zone Freak with her very own acronym. In the Dumping Ground we launch a new contest to find out just how creative you really are. Then in Altered Reality we examine a deficiency that seems to be popping up in post weight loss surgery patients, Vitamin D. And we round things out in the Freak On segment with Andrea’s WLS Vitagartens Lab Tracker Workbook.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features LIPO’s Maryellen Ruggiero.
  • It’s time for a new contest!!
  • To enter the contest make your own BariatricTV.com commercial.
  • Post your commercial as a video response to this weeks show on our YouTube Channel.
  • Your commercial should be about 30 seconds and include our name, our web address and our slogan
  • The winner will receive a case of DaVinci sugar free syrups and a container of Click protein drink mix.
  • Are you getting your Vitamin D in?
  • Vitamin D deficiency in post bariatric surgery patients seems to be a new phenomenon.
  • Vitamin D is converted to its active form through sunlight.
  • Vitamin D promotes absorption of phosphorus, and helps deliver calcium to bones and teeth.
  • We do a quick review of the Lab Tracker Workbook from WLS Vitagarten.

LINKS

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Episode 110: Racing Towards Goal

Posted by on Feb 3, 2011 in Honeymoon Period, Reviews | 9 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we feature a Drop Zone Freak that’s way past due. Then in the Dumping Ground we decide whether you should stay home, or go to Vegas baby!!. In Altered Reality we take a look at the race towards your weight loss goal – have you thought about what to do when you get there? And we wrap things up in the Freak On segment with a quick look at a place to work out where it’s always ladies night!

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Patti55444.
  • The WLSFA Meet and Greet in Vegas is coming up, are you going?
  • The event will May 13th – 15th at the Palace Station Hotel and Casino.
  • There will be a plethora of fun things going on for weight loss surgery folks.
  • BariatricTV is planning to have it’s own meet and greet for all of our freaks while in Vegas.
  • You can buy your tickets and book your rooms at WLSFA.org
  • Are you racing towards your weight loss goal after bariatric surgery?
  • Have you thought about what your plans are after you meet your goal?
  • Truth is there there really isn’t a finish line when it comes to weight reduction surgery.
  • If you’re experiencing slow weight loss after bariatric surgery that may be a good thing.
  • We do a quick review of Curves.
  • Curves is a great place for you lady freaks.

LINKS

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Episode 108: Your Old Pal Mac

Posted by on Jan 20, 2011 in Long Term, Reviews | 14 comments

In this weeks episode of BariatricTV we feature a Drop Zone Freak with bobbles on her head. In the Dumping Ground we let you in on where Obesity Help will be having their events this year. . In Altered Reality we take a look at one of weight loss surgeries dirty little secrets… Regain! And we wrap things up with Operation Beautiful.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features  Erin Hostler.
  • Obesity Help has announced their event schedule for 2011.
  • In July they will be in Seattle.
  • In September OH will be in New York
  • In November the Obesity Help event will be in New Orleans.
  • Yes you can regain after weight loss surgery.
  • Some estimates say 20% of surgical weight loss patients will have significant regain.
  • This can happen by eating around your surgery.
  • If you don’t take a look at what’s going on in your head, regain could happen to you.
  • Don’t we embarrassed to ask for help, it you regain after weight loss surgery.
  • We take a look at Operation Beautiful.

LINKS

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Eposide 106: Fed or Dread

Posted by on Jan 6, 2011 in Long Term, Psychological Issues, Reviews | 2 comments

In this weeks episode of BariatricTV we feature our first DS’er in the Drop Zone. In the Dumping Ground a feeling of dread, means Toni’s well fed. In Altered Reality we take a look at some hidden costs of weight loss surgery. And we wrap things up by bringing you a FABULOUSLY banded freak.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Tom Blanchard
  • Toni was feeling more anxious after her weight loss surgery
  • After spending some time documenting when it was happening a pattern emerged
  • Toni was getting these feelings of dread after she ate too much
  • Are there unexpected costs to weight loss surgery?
  • We’re not just talking about bariatric vitamins and protein drinks
  • What about complications after weight loss surgery? Will your insurance cover those?
  • What about complications if you paid for your weight loss surgery out of pocket?
  • If you have long term complications will your insurance cover them?
  • As you lose weight you may want a gym membership.
  • One of the most expensive costs can be post weight loss surgery plastic surgery.
  • We take a look at a great YouTube channel for lapband freaks.
  • The channel belongs to Bandedwendy

LINKS

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Episode 104: Lawn Guy Land Girls

Posted by on Dec 23, 2010 in Psychological Issues, Reviews | 3 comments

In this weeks episode of BariatricTV our Drop Zone Freak is thriving. In The Dumping Ground, we’re visited by the Ghost of Fatness Past. In Altered Reality we ask if you can hypnotize yourself thin. And in the Freak On segment we visit the Coffee Talk girls as they introduce you to a great support group.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Nicole aka Saphre1964
  • Were visited be the Ghost of Fatness Past.
  • Are you still haunted by fat habits an feeling after weight loss surgery?
  • How do you get rid of the Ghost of Fatness Past?
  • Take pictures before your weight loss surgery, and often as you are loosing weight.
  • Try covering the faces on the pictures.
  • Look into post weight loss surgery therapy.
  • How about a weight loss surgery support group?
  • Can you be hypnotized thin?
  • With the virtual gastric band your hypnotized into thinking you have a lapband
  • The Coffee Talk girls introduce you to LIPO (Long Island Post Ops)
  • LIPO is not just for freaks in New York, they have members across the nation

LINKS

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Episode 102: Bariatric Stocking Stuffers

Posted by on Dec 9, 2010 in Psychological Issues, Reviews | 5 comments

In this weeks episode of BariatricTV our Drop Zone Freak is feeling more confident in her new self. In The Dumping Ground we offer up some great bariatric friendly stocking stuffers. Are you feeling a little blue? Then have a look at the Altered Reality segment of this weeks show. We offer up some great suggestions for mood altering foods. And then, in the Freak On segment, we introduce you to a true running man.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Melissa Helms
  • We look at some weight loss surgery friendly ideas for stocking stuffers
  • Starbucks gift cards are always a good choice.
  • Or a nice gift card holder.
  • Maybe some sugar free mints
  • If you’re feeling a bit down we offer up a few ideas on mood altering foods
  • Yes, one of those mood altering foods is chocolate!
  • We introduce you to the amazing Dan Benintendi

LINKS

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Episode 97: Bossy Pouch!

Posted by on Nov 4, 2010 in Food issues, Long Term, Reviews, Weightloss Surgery Videos | 3 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we start things off with two Drop Zone Freaks in the happiest place on earth. We then ask the question “Is your pouch the boss of everyone?” In Altered Realities we take a look at how your outlook on your surgery can change as you move farther out. And then we wrap things up with a website that’s all about bringing a party to your pouch!

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Ron and Paula
  • Does your pouch, band or sleeve make all the rules in the house?
  • Asking your loved ones to change their lifestyle because you had weight loss surgery isn’t fair.
  • Sooner or later you will have to face a world full of temptation.
  • You need to learn that you control your cravings, they don’t control you.
  • A few years after your weight loss surgery you’ll be amazed at how your perspectives change.
  • Newbies can sometime chastise old timers for not appreciating their weight loss.
  • Old Timers can sometimes be brutal to newbies by insisting they have “No clue what they are talking bout!” .
  • Having weight loss surgery is difficult, let’s support each other!
  • A quick review of 2 bariatric friendly web sites in one

LINKS

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Episode 96 – Secrets Anyone?

Posted by on Oct 28, 2010 in Honeymoon Period, Psychological Issues, Reviews | 13 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we start off with a 136lb drop in the Drop Zone. It’s our Birthday so we have an announcement to make. We talk about when a pound should be worth more then a pound. And wrap things up with a site about secrets.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Donna Sipe
  • Wait…Drop Zone segment interrupted by a BTV News Flash
  • Revival is now sponsoring the Drop Zone. Thanks Revival and Thanks Shannon..
  • We also announce the opening of our BTV Online Store.
  • We are selling protein, vitamins, calcium, and iron from our awesome sponsors.
  • So when is a pound worth more then a pound? When you make it so.
  • You should place a higher value on single pounds the lower you get in your weight.
  • After losing a significant amount, even one or two pounds will make a significant difference.
  • And do you want to hear other WLSers’ secrets?
  • Go to WeightySecrets.com

LINKS

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Episode 95: He’s Got a Thing For Me

Posted by on Oct 14, 2010 in Food issues, Honeymoon Period, Reviews | 12 comments

In this week’s episode of BariatricTV we have a Mother of a Drop Zone Freak. We take a look at some ways to lessen the effects of a dump. We look at some ways to add flavor to dishes you can eat early on after weight loss surgery. And, finally, wrap things up as the Coffee Talk Girls take a look at a new protein powder.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Toni’s Mom Dixie
  • Is there anything you can do to lessen the effects of dumping once it has started?
  • Some say that eating something high in protein can help with a dump.
  • Some studies show that additional fiber can help with dumping syndrome.
  • It will also be helpful to lie down to lessen the effects of a dump.
  • Are you a newbie and getting a little bored with what you can eat right after weight loss surgery?
  • The only way to get past food boredom is with flavor.
  • You can flavor up your broths with cheese.
  • You can also use sauces like Soy or HP.
  • We offer up a few flavor adds for cottage cheese.
  • You will also need some sugar free syrups.
  • The Coffee Talk girls do a review of a new protein powder from Bariatric Advantage

LINKS

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Episode 94: Scaring The Newbies

Posted by on Oct 7, 2010 in Honeymoon Period, Psychological Issues, Reviews | 5 comments

In this weeks episode of BariatricTV we have a Drop Zone freak that you can really get your arms around. We take a look at another freak that is running for a cause. Talk a little bit about the “Scaring the Newbies” drama that’s been going on in the WLS online community. And wrap things up with a consumer guide to weight loss surgery.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Joel Sopp
  • Lynnda and Toni both want to be runners, but hate running!
  • Tom Blanchard is running the New York Marathon on November 7th and is looking for your sponsorship.
  • All donations will go to the Weight Loss Surgery Foundation of America.
  • You can donate on Tom’s site, or mail your donations to the WLSFA at the address below.
  • There’s been some drama in the weight loss surgery online community about scaring the newbies.
  • It all started after an article that claimed a higher suicide rate in post weight loss surgery patients.
  • Here at BTV we think that any information is good information.
  • We do a review of a great site that is a consumer guide to weight loss surgery

LINKS

WLSFA Address
Weight Loss Surgery Foundation of America
11230 Gold Express Drive #310-409
Gold River, CA 95670

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Episode 93: Bariatric Book Review

Posted by on Sep 30, 2010 in Long Term, Reviews | 8 comments

On this week’s show our Drop Zone feature is all about ing’ing. We review a book written by a gastric bypass patient that’s 30 years out from surgery. Have a look at the best way you can give back to the weight loss surgery community. And wrap things up with a review of a B-12 supplement that’s a blast of minty goodness!

NOTE: Please note that we made a mistake on one of the links mentioned in the video. The site for Andrew’s book is www.andrewLEONleclair.com Our apologies to Andrew for making this mistake.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Drop Zone segment features Debbie or yourWLbuddy
  • We do a quick review of “One Foot on Front of the Other, A Man’s Journey Away From Obesity”
  • This book is a very inspiring story about a mans battle with his weight early on in life.
  • If you’re looking for a book specifically about weight loss surgery, and post op life, this is not that book.
  • On one of our Monday chats we discussed how you can give back to the weight loss surgery community.
  • The best way you can give back is to be a successful patient.
  • We do a review of Building Blocks Vitamins B-12 spray.

LINKS

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Episode 91: Ice Ice Baby

Posted by on Sep 16, 2010 in Long Term, Reviews | 6 comments

On this week’s BariatricTV, we bring you the winner of the “Name the Before and After Segment” contest. We discuss an alternative to the medical ID bracelet.  Talk about how not taking your supplements, can lead to weight gain. And finish things up by bringing you a new website from a non surgically altered freak call Snack Girl.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The winner of the Name the Before and After Segment is…..
  • Beth Baker, otherwise known as Trimoon. Congrats Beth.
  • We talk about the other repercussions of not taking you supplements after weight loss surgery.
  • You may become more snackier.
  • But don’t just take our word for it..Take your supplements for a week and see how you feel.
  • Use your cell phone as a Medical ID.
  • Program it with and ICE, or In Case of Emergency contact
  • And we want you to get to know Snack Girl.
  • Check out her list of not so healthy snacks.

LINKS

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Episode 89: What to Eat When Eating Out

Posted by on Sep 2, 2010 in Food issues, Reviews, Surgery Types | 4 comments

On this week’s BariatricTV our “I Freakin Did It” is an Iron Woman! We take at look what to eat at the more popular chain restaurants. There’s a new surgical method for weight loss surgery that requires no incisions at all! And we review a couple new non fruit flavored vitamin products from the folks at Bariatric Advantage.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • This weeks I Freakin Did It MacMadame. She’s an Iron Woman
  • Alison posted in the forum that she wanted some suggestion on what to eat at the major chain restaurants after weight loss surgery.
  • First stay clear of the supper sized menu!
  • TGI Fridays has a great Strawberry Fields Forever Salad, as well as great French Onion Soup.
  • If your at Olive Garden try the Minestrone soup, the Venetian Apricot Chicken or Steak Tuscano wit grilled veggies.
  • Boston Market has great Rotisserie Chicken.
  • If you’re at Chili’s give the Quesadilla Explosion salad a go, but share it with someone as it’s HUGE!!!
  • Denny’s now offers a grilled chicken dinner, or Lynnda’s favorite, the Prime Rib and Bleu Cheese Salad.
  • Many states are now requiring restaurants to post nutritional information, be sure to ask for it.
  • In August 2010 surgeons removed 80% of a woman’s stomach through her mouth.
  • The procedure was a modified Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy.
  • This form of weight loss surgery is new so potential risks are not yet known
  • We review some non fruit flavored vitamin offerings from Bariatric Advantage

LINKS

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