The Leptin Diet Rule

Never Snack Never eat after dinner Allow 5 - 6 hours between meals Allow 11 - 12 hours from the time to stop eating dinner to the time you eat breakfast Snacking - despite how few calories you eat, stops the fat burning Do not eat large meals, finish a meal before you feel full - consistently eating large meals will turn off the leptin burning Eat a breakfast containing protein...and make it very low carb - it will be the equivalent of a 2 -3 mile jog If you are unable to make it 5 hours until lunch ... you had a bad breakfast - the good breakfast keeps you stable during the day. If you snack, you will find yourself circling the refrigerator and will start looking for carbs like a wild animal. 50 -50 technique - 4 - 6 oz of protein for women and the same amount of carbs If you feel you need more food, take fiber before you eat When you eat is as important as what you eat

Leptin Resistance - Why some of us have it

Hormones in Adipose Tissue (Fat)

Exercise while Dieting, not as essential as we were made to believe

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30826120/ns/health-fitness/t/exercise-not-likely-rev-your-metabolism/#.T7RC_OhYt-g

Blocking the Urge to Binge

The Atkins site has a good article on blocking the urge to binge.  I confess, yesterday I ate TWO handfuls of gum drops... like they were the most delicious thing I'd eaten in months.  After I ate the second handful I immediately kicked into remembering I am on a LOW CARB Regime and can't have that .... and I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY wanted ...craved...  more gum drops.

I did what I always do.... carry the food that is calling my name to the trash and pour something on it ... like Comet... Dawn dish detergent.... throwing a bag of gum drops in the trash is not enough... I have to permanently alter it so no one can consume it ... especially me.   I was amazed how powerful the urge was.... how good it tasted.  After I had control of the situation it made me sick to think that those sugary treats would be enough to throw me out of ketosis and I'd have to do no carb all over again to get back into it. Sigh.

I'm better and stronger than I was 8 weeks ago but far from "cured".  It's an ongoing battle, one I am determined to win even if I slip now and then!

Here's the link to the article about blocking the urge to binge.

The Skinny on Obesity - Episode 1

The Skinny on Obesity Episode 2

Why Are You Fat? Insulin

The more insulin you produce, the more Leptin is turned off... the more fat you store... and the more hunger you have since the Leptin is blocked.

Acceptable Artificial Sweeteners - Atkins

I drink Diet Coke - a lot of it and it has not stopped my weight loss, however, Sugar-free gum does... seems if I go over a couple sticks a day it will kick me out of ketosis. Your mileage my vary. Some people on Medi Weightloss tell me they chew a lot of gum... I did... now limit it to two sticks a day.

Duke University Science and Practice of Low Carb Diets

This is well-worth your time to watch the entire video presentation -meat, salt, eggs... fat...and it works! what's not to like? I am still doing the Medi Weightloss diet but I've stopped doing the low-fat and I'm losing more. The first couple weeks I did buy the turkey sausages, bacon etc... I hated it... and remembered I lost more weight with high fat... changed to real back, eating rib steak with the fat.... and my weekly weight loss is now 3 pounds, sometimes more. Use your own judgement... test your body

What to eat on Atkins Induction

Benefits of the Atkins Diet

Atkins How your body responds to the diet

The Incredible Edible Egg

Dietary Cholesterol does NOT raise your Cholesterol level - carbs do... they raise the cholesterol level in your liver... then it is pumped out of the liver. People who eat eggs eat less calories the rest of the day because the carbs cause craving. Eggs keep you filled up (protein) so you are less likely to snack.

Dropping the Fat, Part 1

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7ilwi_dropping-the-fat-episode-3-pt-1-low_webcam

Low Carb Diet Myths Debunked

Eating Low Carb and Optimal Protein

This gal is a little long but has some good info on how she kept her weight off.

Low Carb Diet Explained

BBC Atkins Low Carb Diet Part 5

BBC Atkins Low Carb Diet Part 4

BBC Atkins Low Carb Diet Part 3

BBC Atkins Low Carb Diet Part 2

BBC Adkins Diet Part 1

Alcohol Carb List

Alcohol Carb Chart - Atkins

If you enjoy a cocktail before dinner, or a glass of wine with your steak, you'll be happy to know that most alcohols are zero carb! This list is for straight alcohols, like beer, wine, gin, etc.

The carb counts given here are effective carb counts, with the fiber removed. All amounts here are for a 1oz shot, except as indicated.

Armagnac - 0g
Beer (12oz) - 12.5g
Bourbon - 0g
Brandy - 0g
Cognac - 0g
Gin - 0g
Rum - 0g
Scotch - 0g
Tequila - 0g
Vermouth, Dry - 1.4g
Vermouth, Sweet - 4.5g
Vodka - 0g
Whiskey - 0g
Wine, Red (4oz) - 2.0g
Wine, White (4oz) - 0.9g

Note that there are of course mixed drinks that involve fruit juices, sugars, and other sweet concoctions. If you start mixing in sodas or juices for a cocktail, you're racking up the carbs very quickly. Use a diet soda whenever possible!

If you're looking for blends like Kahlua, Bailey's, etc., check out the Cocktail Liqueur Carb Chart.

Remember that alcohol is still a fuel. Alcohol provides calories to your body, and is one of the four types of substances that your body can metabolize into fat, along with carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

So alcohol is NOT a magical "no weight gain" drink. If you drink more than 1-2 drinks a day, it will have a serious impact on your health and your ability to lose weight. In essence your body will burn up the alcohol first for its energy needs, and then if you have other food digesting in your system as well, that other food is now "left over energy" and will get stored as fat. So the alcohol impedes your body's normal energy burning system.

Whisky, Whiskey Carb Count

Medi Weightloss Clinic does not allow the alcohol...but hey, we're doing the marathon weight loss,right?  So, every now and then, we can have a nip or two... count the calories and realize they may instantly turn to sugar and store as fat.

From Bella Online Low Carb List -

 Whisky / Whiskey / Bourbon Low Carb Information

Whiskey and Whisky are both very similar drinks, made in different locations. Pretty much every whiskey on the market - from Crown Royal to Glenfiddich Scotch - is zero carbs. Scotch is a specific type of whiskey - i.e. whiskey that comes from Scotland. Bourbon is another kind of whisky - i.e. whisky that comes from Kentucky.

In general, whiskies from Scotland and Canada are spelled "whisky" while others are spelled "whiskey". Whiskys from Scotland are called "Scotch".

Bourbon is a little trickier. There is a Bourbon country in Kentucky and most whiskeys from Kentucky are called "bourbon" after this region. However, a tiny amount of whiskeys made elsewhere in the US call themselves bourbon because they feel they offer the same style.

Whether the drinks are called Scotch, Bourbon, Whisky, or Whiskey, they are all the same basic thing - fermented grain alcoholic beverages.

While I can say with great certainty that every whiskey *should* be 0g of carbs per serving, here are the ones I have specifically verified for people:

Canadian Mist - 0g
- a Canadian whisky made from corn and barley. Made in Ontario.

Canadian R&R Whisky - 0g
- a cheap one from Canada, it is just alcohol. I can't even find a website for this one though.

Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky - 0g carbs
- from Scotland, a blended whisky

Cougar Bourbon - reported direct from Foster's PR people for 100ml:
Cougar Bourbon 0.0g
Cougar Bourbon and Cola 8.7g
Cougar XS 0.0g
Cougar Zero (pre mix) 0.05g

Crown Royal Whisky - 0g carbs, 0g fat, 97 calories per 1.5oz
- from Canada, a blend of corn, barley and rye

Canadian Club Whisky - 0g carbs, 0g fat, 96 calories per 1.5oz
- from Canada, uses corn, barley, rye and rye malt

Early Times - 65 calories, zero carbohydrates, and is gluten-free
- reported by the EarlyTimes crew. Per ounce.

Fireball Whisky -
- There are 11 carbs and 108 calories in 1.5 fluid ounce of Fireball Whiskey. Straight from their PR people.

Glenfiddich Scotch Whisky - 0g carbs
- from Scotland, best selling single malt Scotch. Made solely from malted barley

Glenmorangie Scotch Whisky - 0g carbs
- from Scotland, mentioned in "The Highlander". Made solely from malted barley
from their staff: "The calorific value of whisky at 40% abv is 220 cals/100ml, so I'm afraid it doesn't come under the heading of a diet drink, however there are no carbohydrates in whisky so you'll be OK if you are following the Atkins diet."

Grant's Scotch Whisky - verifying but they should be 0g

Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey - 0g carbs, 0g fat, 72 calories per 1oz
- from TN of course. It's not Bourbon because it's not from Kentucky!

Jameson Irish whiskey - 0g carbs
- established in Dublin Ireland

Jim Bean Bourbon - 0g carbs
- Bourbon, from Clemont, Kentucky :) 100 calories per shot, 80 proof

Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky - 0g carbs
- from Scotland, a blended variety. They use 27 different distilleries.
Full Details on Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky

Kentucky Deluxe Blended Whiskey - 0g carbs
- From Heaven Hill Distillers: "Thank you for your inquiry regarding Kentucky Deluxe whiskey. Kentucky Deluxe 80-proof whiskey has 98 Calories per Standard Serving Size of 1.5 fluid ounce. It contains no carbohydrates."

Dr. McGillicuddy's® Fireball Canadian whisky - 0g carbs
- also 69 calories, 0g fat. 100% Canadian whisky, 66 proof, cinnamon flavors

Maker's Mark - 0g carbs
- "There are no carbs and appx 70 calories per one ounce of Maker's Mark."

Seagram's 7 Crown Whiskey - 0g carbs
- This has 40% alcohol, 97 calories per shot.

Southern Comfort - 3g carbs
- history is it was first created in Louisiana. Technically a peach flavored liqueur

If you have another type of whiskey or whisky that you love, please let me know, and I will research it to add in to this list!

There are many fun recipes that involve whiskey (and its relatives) which are rather low carb.

Remember that your body processes alcohol before it moves on to carbs. If you drink too much alcohol, then your body will turn all carbs you ingest into fat. Read the articles linked to below for more information!

NOTE: There are factions who get riled up over Bourbon definitions :) The feel anything can be a Bourbon as long as it follows a Kentucky recipe. This is sort of like the Champagne argument, that Champagne can be made outside of France as long as it uses the Champagne method. However, I happen to side with the people who say that certain names are associated with certain locations. I do not think a Thailand whiskey should be called a Bourbon :)

Remember to read the alcohol and dieting link below. Just because alcohol is zero carb does NOT mean it has no effect on your weight. Read and understand!

Berry Carb Chart

Berries are one of the most important things you can eat on any diet - whether it be low carb or another style. Berries are full of antioxidants and nutrients.
 
All berry counts given here are for 1/4 cup. They are effective carb counts, with the fiber already removed.

acai berry (1oz) - 5g
blackberries - 2.7g
blueberries - 4.1g
boysenberries - 13g
cranberries - 2.0g
elderberries - 4g
raspberries - 1.5g
strawberries - 1.8g

Carb Count - Cheeses

Here are carb charts for various types of cheese. Unless otherwise noted, all amounts are for 2 Tbsp. That's about three slices of the type that goes onto crackers (small squares).

All values are net carbs. There's no fiber in cheese ;)   Remember to count them as a protein calories but also count the carbs.

American (one burger slice) - .3g
Asiago - .4g
Blue - .4g
Cheddar - .2g
Colby (1oz) - .7g
Colby Jack (1oz) - .5g
Cream - .8g
Feta - .8g
Fontina - .2g
Goat - .3g
Gruyere - .1g
Marscarpone (1oz) – 1.0g
Monterey Jack - .1g
Mozarella - .3g
Muenster - .2g
Parmesan - .3g
Swiss - .5g

Snacks You Can Eat On Medi Weightloss Diet - Week Two and Beyond

FREE SNACKS -
1. Sugar-free Popsicles
2. Dill Pickles
3. Sugar-free Jello  (buy the large tray of ready made Kroger brand - love the lemon)

Other Snacks
1. 24 Almonds - 2.3 carbs  (Healthy Fat requirement)
2. String Cheese -  50  Calories
3. Tomato Basil String Cheese - 70 Calories - Kraft Brand .. much better too!
4. Celery
5. Walnuts  (Healthy Fat)
6.  Atkins Snack Bars - watch the sugar alcohols... get one with few net carbs
7. Low fat cheese
8. 1/4 cup berries
9. Cottage Cheese (I hate it )
10. Plain Low-fat Yogurt
11. CarbMaster Yogurt

Snacks you can eat on Medi Weightloss Diet - Week One

First Week and Beyond:

Sugar-free Popsicles 
 (free - don't have to count them)










Another Free Snack


Sugar-free Jello - I buy the Kroger pre-made jellos

DILL PICKLES... Claussen are my favorite!

Yet another free snack

ALMONDS - Low Carb Super Food

                                                             2.3 net carbs per 24 nuts

Similar to peanuts, you get to subtract the fiber 3.3g  from the 5.6g of [bad] carbs that 24 almonds provide, leaving you with 2.3 net carbs. 

Packed with a lot of nutrients for a small amount of carbohydrate, an ounce of almonds has about 2.3 grams of usable carbohydrate, plus 3.3 grams of fiber. Some of those nutrients are similar to the ones in whole grains, but without all the starch. Like grains, almonds can be ground into a meal or flour. Since their mild flavor goes with many foods, baked goods and other foods made with almonds aren't usually overpowered by the almond flavor.

Many people do not realize that almonds are not a true tree nut....they are the seeds of fruit that is related to peaches, apricots and plums.The fruit dried on the tree and the almonds are harvested afterward.

"Superfood"- 

•  The fats in almonds are mostly monounsaturated (the type associated with olive oil). 
• They are an excellent source of vitamin E and manganese, and a good or very good source of many other vitamins and minerals including magnesium.
•  In addition, almonds contain large amounts of phytonutrients, especially plant sterols and flavanoids, which are heart-healthy as well as conferring antioxidant benefits. 
•  To maximize these nutrients, enjoy your almonds with the skins (rather than blanched), as flavanoids are concentrated there.

Health Benefits of Almonds

Quite a few studies have been done with almonds suggesting that they may be able to play a role in weight reduction, cholesterol reduction, and lowering the glycemic response of a high-carbohydrate meal. A few years ago, the FDA came out with a statement saying that eating 1.5 ounces per day of many types of nuts, including almonds, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Almonds are a great snack, all by themselves. Going out for the day or evening? Why not tuck some raw almonds in your purse or carry them for when hunger strikes?
• Add almonds to salads, yogurt, vegetables -- use your imagination!
• Use unsweetened almond milk in shakes, sauces etc..
• Almond flour (same thing as almond meal) can be used in many low-carb recipes. Such as pancakes and muffins.

Don't Worry, Be Happy

Three things to effect your body and well-being -

• Detox
• Stick to Foods Close to the Way Mother Nature Grew Them
• Don't Worry, Be Happy

Get a grip on your feelings and what you focus on...... Focus on the outcome you want...

Stick to the Way Mother Nature Made It - Fresh and Raw - When Possble

Make sure it's not popped, puffed, flaked, flour, shredded  or instant ... it's refined... avoid it. It enters into the body too rapidly... the body gets a hypoglycemia response and it's stored as fat.

If it comes in a box or a can... stay away from it.

Choose organic when possible.

Wash well.. very well when it's not... get rid of the toxins that are sprayed on our foods.

Water... avoid soft plastic bottles...it leaches into the water.

Get plenty of fresh air.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol, on the other hand, is a waxy substance that your body produces naturally. Also, it is consumed in certain foods such as animal meat and other animal products. There are two types of cholesterol -- LDL or bad cholesterol, and HDL or good cholesterol. When your LDL cholesterol is high, it clogs arteries, which increases your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Recommendation

The American Heart Association advises that the optimal triglyceride and LDL cholesterol level is less than 100 mg/dL.

However, for triglyceride level specifically, anything less than 150 mg/dL is considered normal

An LDL less than 129 mg/dL is normal.

HDL cholesterol should be at least 40 mg/dL for men and at least 50 mg/dL for women. The higher your good cholesterol level is, the more protection you have against heart disease and bad cholesterol

.http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/About-Cholesterol_UCM_001220_Article.jsp

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/479795-low-cholesterol-and-low-triglyceride-diet-foods-to-avoid/#ixzz1sjrqffDv

Triglycerides - Produced from the foods we eat

 

• Triglycerides and cholesterol are two different types of lipids in your blood. 

• When you're finished eating, your body turns any unused calories into triglycerides. 

• The triglycerides are stored in fat cells and then released as energy when needed. 

• If you regularly consume too many calories or you consume empty calories such as fat and simple carbohydrates, your triglyceride level will rise

Triglycerides are fats produced from the foods people eat.

Certain types of foods, along with excess calories, can significantly increase triglycerides. At high levels, triglycerides can amplify the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke. Leading a healthy lifestyle and reducing or eliminating problematic foods are key to managing triglycerides.

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/479795-low-cholesterol-and-low-triglyceride-diet-foods-to-avoid/#ixzz1sjrKSDvB

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/320377-low-triglyceride-diet-foods-to-avoid/#ixzz1sjpkblGk

How do you know if a supplement is safe?

Information from FitDay.com --- it's a GREAT Site...click on the link to check them out! 

How are Supplements Approved for Sale?
 

Manufacturers of dietary supplements must obtain FDA approval by providing convincing evidence that a specific supplement is both safe and effective.

However, unlike prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, herbal products and/or supplements are not tested to ensure their validity and/or safety. 

Once a dietary supplement has been marketed, the only way a product can be restricted or removed is if the FDA can prove that the product is unsafe.


Are There Risks Associated with Supplements? 
 
The FDA states: "Many supplements contain active ingredients that have strong biological effects in the body. This could make them unsafe in some situations and hurt or complicate your health. For example, the following actions could lead to harmful -- even life-threatening -- consequences:"

• Combining supplements
• Using supplements with medications (whether prescription or over-the-counter)
• Substituting supplements for prescription medicines
• Taking too much of some supplements, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and iron
• Taking contraindicated supplements before, during and/or after surgery

It is important that you always tell your health care providers (doctor, dietitian, pharmacist, etc) of the supplements you are taking.

 If I need to take a supplement, how do I know what is Safe to Purchase?

If you take supplements, or plan to take supplements, do your homework first. Check out these resources for reliable and scientific information:


Consumerlab.com - Supplement brands must pass product reviews or voluntary certification to be posted on this website. If the product "passes," the manufacturer may then purchase a license to use the Consumer Lab seal of approval.


US pharmacopeia - www.usp.org is an independent testing agency. If product passes ingredient and product integrity, purity and potency tests, then the manufacturer may display USP Verified Dietary Supplement on their product label.


NSF Dietary Supplement Certification -
 www.nsf.org: The NSF mark means the product has undergone third-party testing for identity, purity, quality and consistency.



Additionally, you may find free publications, clearinghouses and information on The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS).

CARBS - Another Macronutrient

Carbohydrates are the main energy source of the body. 

They are chains of small, simple sugars that are broken down and enter the body as glucose.

Glucose is essential for the body, as it is the preferred source of energy in our brain, heart and central nervous system. For this reason, many dieticians recommend that our diets should consist of at least 45 to 65 percent carbohydrates.

BUT ... Medi Weightloss diet is a LOW CARB Diet and we should not exceed our allotted carbs in the early phases of this diet

 Carbohydrates are found in many foods. However, you should stay away from sweet foods with excess sugar.
 Instead, opt for healthier options like fruits, vegetables, beans and nuts, as well as whole grains. These foods also contain fiber.

Fiber cannot be digested by you body. However, fiber aids our intestine in expelling waste and can help lower cholesterol.

FAT - Another One of the Essential Micronutrients

The misconception about fat is that it is always bad for you. 

THIS IS NOT TRUE!

 In fact, fat is essential for maintaining a healthy body.  A healthy non-dieting person should have a diet that consists of about 20 percent fat. The trick is to eat more of the good fats and less of the bad fats.

Saturated and trans fats should be avoided -  increases levels of unsaturated and the essential fatty acids, such as omega 3 and omega 6, can be good for you.

Fat has many roles in the human body. 

 One of fats main functions is protection. This includes insulation to keep body temperature and cushioning to protect body organs. It also promotes growth and development, as well as maintaining cell membranes.

 Fat also plays a vital role in the digestion of  Vitamins A, D, E, and K  - they are fat soluble vitamins, meaning they need fat in order to be absorbed into the body.

Protein - One of the 3 Essential Macronutrients

Protein should consist of about 10 to 35 percent of your diet if you're NOT dieting. 

When we are doing a high protein diet, it should be the main part of your diet.

 AMINO ACIDS

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They are linked together in complex formations. 

There are 20 different amino acids, 9 of which are considered essential because our bodies cannot produce them naturally, and therefore they must be obtained through the diet. 

Proteins that contain all 20 amino acids are called complete proteins.

 Complete proteins are found in animal products such as meat, eggs and milk.

Proteins crucial role in the body includes building, maintaining and repairing body tissue. It is especially important to physically active individuals whose muscle tissue is constantly in need of repair.

Protein has other roles in the body. All enzymes and hormones, which perform vital functions, are proteins.

In addition, proteins are used to aid in the immune process.

MACRONUTRIENTS - WHY WHAT YOU EAT IS IMPORTANT

Macronutrients are the main components of our diet and our body CAN NOT make them so we need to get them in our diet.

Our bodies require others nutrients as well, such as vitamins and minerals. However, these are needed in much smaller quantities, and thus are referred to as micronutrients. 

The 3 macronutrients of protein, fat, and carbohydrates are needed in the diet as each of these  perform essential roles in the human body..

Of the 3 primary macronutrients – protein, fat, and carbohydrates, only 2 of these are essential to sustaining human life - Protein and Fat

 Carbohydrates are not necessary to sustain life. Carbohydrates do provide glucose and energy that the body uses, but the body can also derive its energy from fats and protein.

Essential Fatty Acids

Not all fats are created equally. While many different types of fat have their benefits, only the essential fatty acids (EFAs) are required. This is because the body cannot synthesize them.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids need to be ingested through your diet, and odds are, the majority of the worlds population get nowhere near the amounts they need to be considered optimal.

Essential Amino Acids

Protein is made up of amino acids – the building blocks of life. They are essential to many of the body’s important functions. One of these functions is to provide energy for the brain. Your body cannot manufacture all the different amino acids, therefore, it needs to obtain its essential amino acids from your diet.
 
In the absence of carbohydrates, the brain needs to find glucose to operate. There’s a reason why people get foggy headed when they haven’t eaten in a while or while they are on a low carb diet. The brain needs glucose to perform its functions. But where does it get glucose if no carbohydrates are ingested? It gets it from protein through a process called gluconeogenesis.

So what happens when you don’t get carbohydrates or protein you ask? The body still needs glucose. Well there is another source of protein the body can use. 

In the absence of carbs and protein, the body turns to itself for fuel. Protein is the most plentiful substance in our bodies. Muscles are made of protein. Organs, skin, eyes and hair – they are all made up of protein. The body starts breaking down these tissues to fuel itself. It slowly eats away until it reaches the point it can no longer sustain itself.

The first step to a healthy diet is to first give your body what it needs to survive.  Essential fatty acids and protein (specifically the essential amino acids) should be staples in your diet if you want to reach your goals.

So eat some healthy meat and grab a handful of nuts. Your body will thank you.

EFA - Essential Fatty Acids

 Fats are Essential 

Fat is one of the essential macronutrients.  More specifically, we are talking about essential fatty acids (EFAs).

Essential fatty acids cannot be manufactured by the body, so they need to be consumed through your diet.

 Ever been on a diet and then ate everything in sight? When your body doesn’t get in enough of the nutrients it needs, it will send out hunger signals to tell you to eat until it does get them. 

 Do you know the other essential macronutrient that you must get through your diet?

 This is the other essential macronutrient.
Omega-3 and omega-6 are the two essential fatty acids we must ingest because the body cannot synthesize them. Most of us get in enough of the omega-6 fatty acids, but are lacking with the omega-3s. Good sources of EFAs include seeds, nuts, and fish. I like to supplement with cod liver oil to get my EFAs.
Essential fatty acids might be the only essential fats, but saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats play a large role in the body too. Check out these 20 benefits of dietary fat, and the roles they play in the body.

Trans fat

Foods that contain trans fat should be avoided at all costs.

Trans fat is a type of fat that has been chemically altered. It is in many fried foods and processed cookies and crackers. 

Healthy fat, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, can have a positive impact on cholesterol and triglycerides.

Foods high in cholesterol such as eggs, meat and dairy products should be limited.

Try to consume nonfat dairy products, eat fish at least twice a week in place of meat and choose only lean cuts of meat without the skin.

When preparing these foods, use olive oil instead of butter for an extra dose of healthy fat.

Finally, since consuming too many calories can spike your triglyceride level, choose foods that are high in nutrients but low in saturated fat and calories, such as fruits and vegetables.

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/479795-low-cholesterol-and-low-triglyceride-diet-foods-to-avoid/#ixzz1sjsfY36V

Did you know eating healthy fats helps us burn off body fat?

Tonight I came across an article that was so well-written that I am just going to put the link on here....

Please read it all...very good info!

http://www.squidoo.com/eat-fat-to-burn-fat

Carbohydrates - Part 1 - Clinical Nutrition

Part one of a complete overview of carbohydrates and your heath.

It's really all about metabolism ... NOT calories. People can eat more food and lose weight...

Calories are essentially energy.... fuel.

If your "flame" is only blazing at the rate of a candle you don't have much energy.

It's really about the rate that is broken down and enters the body...



Essential Carbohydrates -

Think of a string of pearls.... a long string would be a complex carbohydrate.. Mostly grains, starchy vegetables, etc. The string is saccyrides ....... this string needs to be broken down into monosacchrides - into smaller units.

With simple sugars you need to understand how quickly they enter the body....glucose gives us the energy. On a cellular level

Pituitary -

Organs are like a lamp... if there is a lot of glucose in the blood...

ATP - it is like a blast of pure raw energy


This is part one of an advanced nutrition lecture on the science of carbs. Topics discussed include weight loss, metabolism, calories, digestion, simple sugars vs. complex carbohydrates, refined sugar, diabetes, diets, low blood sugar, high blood sugar, etc.



RADHlA is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist, C.C.N. She is also a Certified BioNutritional Analyst. She has a Ph.D. in pastoral counseling and a M.Ed. in nutrition. She is a professional member of the International and American Association of Clinical Nutritionists, (I.A.A.C.N), and the American Naturopathic Medical Association (A.N.M.A.).

Visit Radhia's Website at
http://www.advancedhealthinstitute.com/
http://www.aimmd.com/

This video was produced by Psychetruth
http://www.myspace.com/psychtruth

Leptin: An important hormone that helps controls hunger and also tells your body when to burn off body fat!

5

Just for the record, Medi Weightloss Clinic does NOT allow you to you bacon on this diet... however,  I can't stand the turkey sausage they suggested and it has twice the calories of one piece of bacon so.......... I'm eating the bacon instead and lost more weight last week than I had in a regular week. I figure this is a marathon, not a sprint,  and enjoying what you eat is a large part of sticking with the low carb lifestyle.

I hate the idea of eating sausage that is formed by grinding up turkey parts and extruding it into sausage... that is odd tasting. No turkey bacon for me.... I want the real stuff, not turkey made to look like bacon.  After all, we're only talking about THIRTY FIVE CALORIES!


When we eat fat, an  important hormone, Leptin, is released. It helps us to burn our own fat . Below is a link to website that explains this very well.


http://www.squidoo.com/eat-fat-to-burn-fat#module107723721

The Diet Continues

I've just finished my 5th week on the diet and have lost 18.5 pounds of fat and 3.5 pounds of water ( Get the scale that measures this, it's worth it)

Yeah!

I had good intentions to blog my way through the first weeks of this diet but I could not.  It was hard but not impossible.  I lost 9 # the first week!  Of course, a lot of that was water...

It seemed like all I ever did was measure portions, eat and swallow vitamins and supplements.  The first week is only 500 calories of protein.... and I realized how often I would reach for food when I wasn't even hungry.!
I was also very tired as my body adjusted to this new way of eating.

Week two brought the addition of MORE CALORIES ... AND .. veggies ( 1 cup raw or 1/2 cup cooked) twice a day or  once  a day with a half cup of berries. I try to avoid fruit because I love it too much and don't have that much self control.  I am now eating 675-700 calories a day in just protein, then adding the veggie, fruit and healthy fats on top of that... and losing more weight than I ever did fasting or on any other diet!

Week two also requires you add a good fat, like from nuts....  I could not leave them alone so I quickly tossed them in the trash and poured Comet on top of them.... since I could not be trusted.

The BEST thing about this diet is........ the appetite suppressant!  I can't begin to tell you how much I like it...
and how it makes me feel...very early into the diet I had an epiphany........  I FELT LIKE I REMEMBERED FEELING WHEN I WAS YOUNG!   I had energy... no urge to eat between meals.... not sluggish..... it was and is the best feeling.... to be able to look at food and just say no....it's bad for me and I'm not really hungry..

I am known for my lack of will power and failed diets. So far, I'm still sticking to this one and loving it... if I can do it, you can do it.  Make your mind up and do it.  As Yoda says, "Do. There is no try."

I'm paying $80 a week....yes, that is a LOT of money... so I am more motivated not to cheat... but the biggest reason I am not cheating is because I don't want to let me down.

Online Source for Nutritional Information

Perhaps you are like me... never sure where to find calorie and carb information for the foods you are eating.

Look no more... here is a good online source of information - Calorie Count Plus, where you can plug in a food to get all kinds of nutritional information about it.


BTW - those hairy legs and man feet are not mine! 

Why WATER is IMPORTANT FOR WEIGHT LOSS

Why Water is important for Weight Loss 

High Protein Triggers Weight Loss

At the end of my second week they told me I needed to increase my protein from 500 to at least 675 or 700 and I'd lose weight quicker. Sounds unbelievable, doesn't it?

We'll see.

Here is an article to back-up that theory.

Medi Weightloss Clinic - two weeks into it

Two weeks down and I'm 12# thinner! I am back in my jeans I wore at Christmas!

And... I am loving it!

I feel... no, I know, I can and will do this. I will not cheat or drop off the wagon.

If you are reading this and wondering it if is for you... if you have made up your made that you are going to commit to whatever it takes to lose weight, then I think you too will be successful. LIKE ME, YOU HAVE TO BE READY TO DO THIS. No one can want it for you more than you want it for yourself.

Again, no one can want it for you more than you want it for yourself.

For me, counting the days until I had my appointment anc could start, seemed like an eternity. That is how I knew I was ready.

Now, that said... I gorged and filled myself full of carbs right until 10 pm the night before I started. After all, if I didn't eat them, I was going to have to throw them away... not something a carb lover can easily do... and certainly not something an out of control carb lover could do.

As the day approached, I embraced and welcomed the opportunity to change. I knew I had to do something. A year earlier I lost 25 pounds, only to gain all that back and more this winter...and as I was eating myself into a frenzy. I kept wondering, how much can I eat until my pants are too tight? That would be what would stop me... or so I thought.

The day came and not only were they too tight... I could not get my jeans up past my thighs. It seemed the fat reappeared all at once. I was depressed... and angry with myself.

Fortunately, having been through the yo-yo dieting routines in the past, I still had some of my clothes from when I was heavier and they fit. Kind of. Even they were tough to zip... I could not zip the last two inches of my fat dress slacks.

But even that did not stop me. I went to the grocery store and bought veggies and all the fixings for a salad... and two gallons of my favorite ice cream, bagels and cream cheese, a large bag of Doritos and a bag of Reeese Peanut Butter Cups. I never touched the salad fixings, but I ate everything else over the course of 3 days and bought more bagels and cream cheese and consumed that.

I also had fallen in love with very large, rich cookies that were sold in the gift shop at work. Some days I only ate one, other days I ate two.

Tuesday of that week I had a hair appointment. As we always do, my hairdresser and I exchanged our plans to lose our extra weight. She had a plan... to watch what she ate and go to the gym. My plan was to start back on shakes... that's how I lost it in the past and I liked them. As much as I liked them, I was still tempted by real food... it's not realistic to think you can take off the weight on shakes and THEN learn how to eat correctly.

As she was cutting my hair, another hairdressers client came in and she greeted her by name and said she could tell she lost weight. The lady smiled and said, "Yes, 22 pounds in a month - eating regular food, no shakes, nothing pre-packaged." I was amazed.

I quizzed her about her diet. She said it was medically supervised and the easiest thing she's ever done to lose weight. She told me the cost involved... $295 for the initial visit and $80 a week. I said there was no way I would pay that. I'm a single mom who still has a child in college.

She said she has five kids, the oldest is in college and the youngest is 4 and she is in the process of divorce. "How can you afford?" I asked. She said, "how can I afford not to do it? If I develop a health issue, it's going to cost me a lot more than this and I have to be healthy to work and take care of 5 kids on my own."

I told her I understood, but I didn't. Not yet. I swore under my breath that I'd just do it on my own and not pay anyone to weigh me.

As she was leaving, she handed me a card for $25 off the initial visit and said, "I hope you do it - it's easy and you are not hungry."

As I crawled into bed that evening, after eating yet more ice cream, I decided that I too need to be here for my kids and as healthy as possible. I decided to look at it differently, not as money spent but as money invested in my future, and my sons.
And I said to myself something I don't think I've ever said to myself in the past.

I said. "You're worth it."

Then I closed my eyes and tried to justify it again and again until I believed those words.

Two weeks later, I am 12 pounds lighter... and my BMI even dropped a point.
No hunger.

What I really appreciate about the staff is how personable they are.... and how encouraging they are.

I know if I give my all for 12 weeks, it was change my life... and I plan to stay until I reach my desired size.

They did not set a goal for me. They said that was entirely up to me.

I decided to set small goals for myself.

The first goal - getting back into my jeans. Just two weeks later.

My next goal is the 20# mark. Once I get there I will set the next one.

In a couple weeks it will be warm to stay, hopefully I will be able to wear the slacks I wore last summer by that time. If not, I will stay the course until I do.

In two weeks I've lost more than I ever did after months of being on Diet Workshop or Weight Watchers.

And, they upped my calories by 200 calories. Imagine getting your calories increased so you lose more weight? I'm still apprehensive about that but it is a science and they know what they are doing.

This is working for me. It will work for you too, if you work it.

Dr.Visit

Ugh.... Who likes to be weighed?  Not Me!

I got the grim news... and my BMI.... and the breakdown that said how much of me was fat,  how much was muscle, and how much was water.  - 

Weighed, measured... photo taken blood chemistry drawn... injections given...EKG, History and Mini-Physical and a prescription for the appetite suppressant!

I had expected a lecture... but instead he said... this is not all your fault. You eat foods that stimulate insulin production and people who have too much insulin store the majority of the carbs they consume as FAT.

He also said that he knows this to be a fact:  Women can't stick to a diet and lose weight if they are hungry  - so if your BMI is high enough you will get an appetite suppressant  - 7 pills each week... the cost of those pills and the weekly B12 shot are included in your weekly fee.

The appetite suppressant can only be prescribed for 12 weeks... no more.  If you miss a weekly doctor appointment, you miss a week of appetite suppressants. No exceptions. They are very highly re gulated.... and I love them. It is so wonderful to go through the day and eat when your stomach is growling instead of thinking about food all day long. 

I left there with an insulated lunch bag full of supplements, and instructions for the first week.... I can honestly say it was $295 well spent.... every dime of it!

Diet Weight Loss Secret - Low Carb Eating

Medi Weight Loss Clinic - Some reasons I like the concept

As you know, I've yet to start... but I'm anxious to get started and gathering as much info as I can ... like WATER - Drink 64 - 128 oz a day

You should have 16 oz of a drink with electrolytes to prevent muscle spasms

Have some healthy fat every dayt  to keep your gall bladder working properly.( THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT ... I was on Medifast and had rapid weight loss.... then had my gall bladder flare up... and pancreasitis... nearly died.

The Day Arrived

We've all had those days... you are getting ready for work, you get a glimpse at your half-naked body in the mirror and wonder, WHO IS THAT WOMAN? If fact, you're downright shocked and horrified... she looks nothing like the woman in your dreams or the one you see in the mirror most of the time ...unless, of course, you stop and take a second look.

For me, it's not just about shopping for clothes ... or hoping to remarry someday....(actually, no matter how thin I get I will still seek out that man who loves me for me, not my dress size... but that's a story for another day.

Today, I am going to speak about the day the thin person inside me kicked me in the gut. I remember it well, and hope the bruise sticks around for awhile.

I was getting my hair colored... glanced in the mirror at my plump face and wondered how those pounds I lost a year ago returned... without me noticing until one day NOTHING fit but my former fat clothes that were still in a box in the garage.

I am a stress eater... and I've had a stressful year.... my dad has had a year of major health struggles... I stop there every night and eat a few chocolates... popcorn... etc.   During the day when I think about his condition, I treat myself to a large cookies, to ease the pain.  When he's in the hospital, my mother and I get McChicken Sandwiches ... hot, spicy and only $1.... and 440 calories.

Another client was standing close to me talking about her recent weight loss and not being hungry... and eating real food.... with the weight just falling off.... no hunger... easy. Then she mentioned the COST.... First visit, $295. Each additional week, $80.  And you eat real food, weigh in weekly...pay your money and get your shots.

I gulped at the price.... she is getting divorced and has 5 kids... and said... "I can't think about the cost, when he asked me for a divorce, I called the next day."

And I snuggled down in the beauty shop chair and thought.... "I want to grow old to be there for my sons, I can't think about the price".  She gave me a business card to call and I did so that evening.

The next morning the weight loss clinic called to say they got my message.... they could see me on Thursday...Woo Hoo.

I made that appointment last Wednesday. Today is Sunday and Thursday seems like a lifetime away... the receptionist told me to fast before I come but drink plenty of water.... she also told me to eat normally this week, unrestricted, not to diet so I would go into ketosis easier once I start the process.

And so I wait....and anticipate the process.  I am eating things... like pizza and an ice cream cone today... thinking ... enjoy it because it will be months before I have those treats again and I'm OK with that.

I have a couple tubs of clothes I bought last summer that I can't get into ............... but hopefully within a month, I will.

I am ready... which is the biggest part of changing your lifestyle... you have to be ready.

I  am

I am

I am not thinking about the cost.... I'd gladly pay that to spend additional healthy years with my sons.They are my motivation.