bethsheba
02-22-2008, 08:45 AM
Hi flowergirl!
I agree with you about having a "treat" now and then. I certainly have't been perfect on my DASH plan, but despite this my pressures have been dropping and are not as "bouncy"...no spikes.
Your foods sound scrumptious! I know you have limitations with your diet, but you might want to check out some of the DASH recipes and tailor them to your needs. 67 Dieticians (with more than 320 years of education and goodness knows how many years of experience) have put these recipes together and I have to say the recipes are GOOOOOD....but I'll also say that I'm not a fussy eater and like most anything providing it is well prepared.
Hope you're feeling better, Flower...it made me sad to read that you had a rough day yesterday.
Take care.
Bethsheba
I agree with you about having a "treat" now and then. I certainly have't been perfect on my DASH plan, but despite this my pressures have been dropping and are not as "bouncy"...no spikes.
Your foods sound scrumptious! I know you have limitations with your diet, but you might want to check out some of the DASH recipes and tailor them to your needs. 67 Dieticians (with more than 320 years of education and goodness knows how many years of experience) have put these recipes together and I have to say the recipes are GOOOOOD....but I'll also say that I'm not a fussy eater and like most anything providing it is well prepared.
Hope you're feeling better, Flower...it made me sad to read that you had a rough day yesterday.
Take care.
Bethsheba
Sponsor
bethsheba
02-22-2008, 09:01 AM
Day 11
I can't believe there are only 3 days left of the challenge...but I'm not going to stop DASHing...I really, really like this kind of eating...BUT i've got a long way to go.
b shredded wheat with prunes
milk, skim
toast with margarine (I'm supposed to have a second grain with every
breakfast but for some reason, I don't remember to do this--maybe that's
why the bedtime snack)
orange juice
l tried something NEW:bouncing:
Swiss cheese sandwich with
2 teaspoons sunflower seeds
1 tablespoon lite mayo
2 slices whole wheat bread with flaxseed (this was GREAT!!!)
low fat, low sodium cheddar cheese (what can I say, I like cheddar
better and substitutions are ok!)
3 slices fresh tomato
2 slices red onion
1 green belll pepper ring (I used a red bell pepper that I had in the freezer--used up my green pepper in the sweet/sour pork recipe)
When I made this, I melted the cheese in the microwave....believe me, this sandwich was goooood!
strawberry milkshake with milk and frozen strawberries (and no, I will never tire of my milkshakes...have always had them every am with breakfast so I am glad that I can continue to have them with other meals)
d Had planned on having Blackened Beef wtih Greens and Red Potatoes but given the weather, did not venture to the store. Pulled out sweet/sour pork and rice from the freezer...Must get more menus made up ahead of time!!
This was fast and tasty...no complaints.
Another strawberry milkshake, some baby carrots and 3 cups of hot chocolate...what can I say? It is COLD outside.
BP 125/88, pulse 65 at 5:53 am
123/86, pulse 65 at 5:57 am
Weight, up a pound (I'm not eating all of my veggies and I suspect I'm gaining water...this is the highest weight I've been since Christmas). I think pressures may be up some because I had 2 servings of the sweet/sour pork and therefore I DOUBLED my sodium...now why did I do that? Ughhhhhh.
I can't believe there are only 3 days left of the challenge...but I'm not going to stop DASHing...I really, really like this kind of eating...BUT i've got a long way to go.
b shredded wheat with prunes
milk, skim
toast with margarine (I'm supposed to have a second grain with every
breakfast but for some reason, I don't remember to do this--maybe that's
why the bedtime snack)
orange juice
l tried something NEW:bouncing:
Swiss cheese sandwich with
2 teaspoons sunflower seeds
1 tablespoon lite mayo
2 slices whole wheat bread with flaxseed (this was GREAT!!!)
low fat, low sodium cheddar cheese (what can I say, I like cheddar
better and substitutions are ok!)
3 slices fresh tomato
2 slices red onion
1 green belll pepper ring (I used a red bell pepper that I had in the freezer--used up my green pepper in the sweet/sour pork recipe)
When I made this, I melted the cheese in the microwave....believe me, this sandwich was goooood!
strawberry milkshake with milk and frozen strawberries (and no, I will never tire of my milkshakes...have always had them every am with breakfast so I am glad that I can continue to have them with other meals)
d Had planned on having Blackened Beef wtih Greens and Red Potatoes but given the weather, did not venture to the store. Pulled out sweet/sour pork and rice from the freezer...Must get more menus made up ahead of time!!
This was fast and tasty...no complaints.
Another strawberry milkshake, some baby carrots and 3 cups of hot chocolate...what can I say? It is COLD outside.
BP 125/88, pulse 65 at 5:53 am
123/86, pulse 65 at 5:57 am
Weight, up a pound (I'm not eating all of my veggies and I suspect I'm gaining water...this is the highest weight I've been since Christmas). I think pressures may be up some because I had 2 servings of the sweet/sour pork and therefore I DOUBLED my sodium...now why did I do that? Ughhhhhh.
flowergirl2day
02-22-2008, 11:40 AM
Hello,
here is one of the two recipes I use for super healthy muffins. This one uses no fat.
Muffins
1 C wheat bran
3/4 C oat bran
1/3 C crushed flax seed
1 C whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp allspice and/or cloves
3 eggs
1/3 C brown sugar
1/2 C Splenda
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/3 C plain yogurt (I use 4% MF)
Add a couple of the following ingredients:
raisins
a couple of bananas
walnuts
dry apricots, chopped
cranberries
blueberries
prunes
basically, any fruit goes
Mix dry ingredients, spices, fruit & nuts.
Mix eggs, liquids & yogurt and combine with the above.
Spray a muffin pan with Pam and fill 2/3 full.
Bake @ 350 for about 20 minutes.
You can skip the Splenda and increase the amount of brown sugar by about 1/2 cup or add the same amount (1/2C) of white sugar. I always make two batches and freeze a bunch.
here is one of the two recipes I use for super healthy muffins. This one uses no fat.
Muffins
1 C wheat bran
3/4 C oat bran
1/3 C crushed flax seed
1 C whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp allspice and/or cloves
3 eggs
1/3 C brown sugar
1/2 C Splenda
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/3 C plain yogurt (I use 4% MF)
Add a couple of the following ingredients:
raisins
a couple of bananas
walnuts
dry apricots, chopped
cranberries
blueberries
prunes
basically, any fruit goes
Mix dry ingredients, spices, fruit & nuts.
Mix eggs, liquids & yogurt and combine with the above.
Spray a muffin pan with Pam and fill 2/3 full.
Bake @ 350 for about 20 minutes.
You can skip the Splenda and increase the amount of brown sugar by about 1/2 cup or add the same amount (1/2C) of white sugar. I always make two batches and freeze a bunch.
bethsheba
02-22-2008, 11:46 AM
FG,
The recipe is in my printer! Thanks so much...will have to buy more craisons because I used them up on my cereal. Bet they're good in the muffins.
Just bought the flax seed when I went shopping last time. Have no experience with it whatsover other than it was in my whole wheat bread this am and the bread was very, very good (was this because it contained brown sugar, I wonder?).
Oh, I've been meaning to tell you that in Canada, if I remember this correctly, although the food may be labled "whole wheat", it may contain as little as 30 percent whole wheat...thought of you when I read it but I really should have written down the info for accuracy's sake.
Bethsheba
The recipe is in my printer! Thanks so much...will have to buy more craisons because I used them up on my cereal. Bet they're good in the muffins.
Just bought the flax seed when I went shopping last time. Have no experience with it whatsover other than it was in my whole wheat bread this am and the bread was very, very good (was this because it contained brown sugar, I wonder?).
Oh, I've been meaning to tell you that in Canada, if I remember this correctly, although the food may be labled "whole wheat", it may contain as little as 30 percent whole wheat...thought of you when I read it but I really should have written down the info for accuracy's sake.
Bethsheba
flowergirl2day
02-22-2008, 12:17 PM
Beth,
you are doing great with your diet. Keep up the good work. :cool:
I think one of the muffins would count as a serving of grains.
It would be also be more enjoyable to eat, compared to bread or other grains. I have never had any problems with getting enough grains!!! My great weakness. Unlike you, I get too many grain servings.
As for the flax seed, it is a great source of nutrients similar to those in the fish. In order to get the most out of it, it should be CRUSHED because it passes through the digestive system whole if it isn't. If you decide to bake the muffins, you can get flaxseed in the bulk section at the grocery store either whole (and grind it yourself) or you can buy it already ground. It keeps well for about 6 months in the freezer (mine is in a lidded plastic container). If you skip it in the recipe, just add more oat or wheat bran.
I will check out some of the DASH recipes though I have limited time to spend in the kitchen unless I have a day off. Any diet that requires preparation of specific meals would be a challenge for me to follow.
Your menus sound delicious. Do not worry about not having seen any weight loss yet. The same thing happened to me last year after I started an intensive exercise/diet regime. I did some reading about it then. All I remember is that our metabolism works in funny ways and by exercising so much I was increasing muscle mass, which is heavier than fat. It is normal for people to GAIN some weight initially. The antihypertensive medications so many of us have to take, which initiate weight gain, do not help. :(
I got through the night somehow and slept for a bit sitting up in a chair. I think I'll have to stay home from work for another day. Hubby was going to take me to the ER last night. I feel better now. I hope it is going away and things will get back to normal. Thank you for your concern. :)
flowergirl
you are doing great with your diet. Keep up the good work. :cool:
I think one of the muffins would count as a serving of grains.
It would be also be more enjoyable to eat, compared to bread or other grains. I have never had any problems with getting enough grains!!! My great weakness. Unlike you, I get too many grain servings.
As for the flax seed, it is a great source of nutrients similar to those in the fish. In order to get the most out of it, it should be CRUSHED because it passes through the digestive system whole if it isn't. If you decide to bake the muffins, you can get flaxseed in the bulk section at the grocery store either whole (and grind it yourself) or you can buy it already ground. It keeps well for about 6 months in the freezer (mine is in a lidded plastic container). If you skip it in the recipe, just add more oat or wheat bran.
I will check out some of the DASH recipes though I have limited time to spend in the kitchen unless I have a day off. Any diet that requires preparation of specific meals would be a challenge for me to follow.
Your menus sound delicious. Do not worry about not having seen any weight loss yet. The same thing happened to me last year after I started an intensive exercise/diet regime. I did some reading about it then. All I remember is that our metabolism works in funny ways and by exercising so much I was increasing muscle mass, which is heavier than fat. It is normal for people to GAIN some weight initially. The antihypertensive medications so many of us have to take, which initiate weight gain, do not help. :(
I got through the night somehow and slept for a bit sitting up in a chair. I think I'll have to stay home from work for another day. Hubby was going to take me to the ER last night. I feel better now. I hope it is going away and things will get back to normal. Thank you for your concern. :)
flowergirl
marantz1935
02-22-2008, 12:54 PM
Beth, just posting to wish you continued sucess with your diet.
rbbb
02-22-2008, 02:11 PM
Hi flowergirl!
I agree with you about having a "treat" now and then. I certainly have't been perfect on my DASH plan, but despite this my pressures have been dropping and are not as "bouncy"...no spikes.
Nice to see some DASH people around (yeah don't call it a diet!). I have been on DASH for just over 4 years now. <removed>
One thing that added to my enjoyment of DASH was a redesign of the Daily Journal. I simply put it in WORD as a 9-across by 8 down TABLE (landscape and set the margins headers and footers to .25") with the top skinny row having the Date -- the food categories with my portions goals -- and the last one for minutes of exercise.
I also record weight, BP/Pulse and daily steps in the first column -- it fits ok and is handy for when I type it into their on-line webpage. I wish I could send you the .DOC but no can do attachments.
My weight has varied a little over the years -- but I did not start it to lose weight -- but rather to gain a healthier lifestyle. I have faithfully filled in the journal every single day over those 4 years. It is kind of a nice record to have -- My Life As My Food. It does actually come in handy sometimes when I might want to know exactly when we went on vacation last year or the last time we went to a certain restaurant and what did I have -- I just scan the journal and it is right there in the food! Laugh if you will but someday I will turn it into a best selling book!
Oh and my Blood pressure is around 110/60 ... pulse around 60. Has been forever it seems so keep the faith and keep on DASHing.
As it is I seldom even reach my daily goals (on a maintain weight setting) -- although for sweets i seldom stay below but figure i have to make it up somewhere eh?
Overall it is just good to have the journal there so you can have a constant reminder on if I am conforming or not. Also for weigh-ins I use a WeightWatchers digital scale -- nothing fancy but it is so accurate and repeatable.
So good luck with your DASHing -- it can work and it is not really a lot of work. :D
rb
I agree with you about having a "treat" now and then. I certainly have't been perfect on my DASH plan, but despite this my pressures have been dropping and are not as "bouncy"...no spikes.
Nice to see some DASH people around (yeah don't call it a diet!). I have been on DASH for just over 4 years now. <removed>
One thing that added to my enjoyment of DASH was a redesign of the Daily Journal. I simply put it in WORD as a 9-across by 8 down TABLE (landscape and set the margins headers and footers to .25") with the top skinny row having the Date -- the food categories with my portions goals -- and the last one for minutes of exercise.
I also record weight, BP/Pulse and daily steps in the first column -- it fits ok and is handy for when I type it into their on-line webpage. I wish I could send you the .DOC but no can do attachments.
My weight has varied a little over the years -- but I did not start it to lose weight -- but rather to gain a healthier lifestyle. I have faithfully filled in the journal every single day over those 4 years. It is kind of a nice record to have -- My Life As My Food. It does actually come in handy sometimes when I might want to know exactly when we went on vacation last year or the last time we went to a certain restaurant and what did I have -- I just scan the journal and it is right there in the food! Laugh if you will but someday I will turn it into a best selling book!
Oh and my Blood pressure is around 110/60 ... pulse around 60. Has been forever it seems so keep the faith and keep on DASHing.
As it is I seldom even reach my daily goals (on a maintain weight setting) -- although for sweets i seldom stay below but figure i have to make it up somewhere eh?
Overall it is just good to have the journal there so you can have a constant reminder on if I am conforming or not. Also for weigh-ins I use a WeightWatchers digital scale -- nothing fancy but it is so accurate and repeatable.
So good luck with your DASHing -- it can work and it is not really a lot of work. :D
rb
famnd
02-22-2008, 09:10 PM
Hi everybody who drops in,
Beth, so happy for you as far as what you are learning about your b/p & sodium. Must admit that I am envious of your low b/p numbers especially considering you aren't on any meds. In my daydreams I wonder if my b/p would have gone back down had I not had such a traumatic experience with the medical staff while I was hyperthyroid. My b/p did return to normal in the 70's after a thyroiditis episode.
Did you see that article in the news regarding cat owners versus dog owners? It seems cat owners have less of a chance of getting a stroke or heart attack in the study. Guess I'll have to get a toy (stuffed) cat cause two of my kids who visit are very allergic to cats.
FG, wish I could join you in the muffins but my stomach just won't allow it. A friend of mine used to make those kind of
muffins in the 80's. Hope you will be feeling better by tomorrow. I am so afraid of getting sick again after my bout with a cold virsu in Dec. It just takes so long to catch up.
Vanessa, with kids & a job & HBP you must be strung out tight. I always say at least my encounter with medical issues comes at the end of my productive part of life. I just don't know how I would have managed earlier if life when I had a houseful of kids.
I think we are learning a lot from each other about diet & HBP. The little short cuts to making it happen really help.
Fam
Beth, so happy for you as far as what you are learning about your b/p & sodium. Must admit that I am envious of your low b/p numbers especially considering you aren't on any meds. In my daydreams I wonder if my b/p would have gone back down had I not had such a traumatic experience with the medical staff while I was hyperthyroid. My b/p did return to normal in the 70's after a thyroiditis episode.
Did you see that article in the news regarding cat owners versus dog owners? It seems cat owners have less of a chance of getting a stroke or heart attack in the study. Guess I'll have to get a toy (stuffed) cat cause two of my kids who visit are very allergic to cats.
FG, wish I could join you in the muffins but my stomach just won't allow it. A friend of mine used to make those kind of
muffins in the 80's. Hope you will be feeling better by tomorrow. I am so afraid of getting sick again after my bout with a cold virsu in Dec. It just takes so long to catch up.
Vanessa, with kids & a job & HBP you must be strung out tight. I always say at least my encounter with medical issues comes at the end of my productive part of life. I just don't know how I would have managed earlier if life when I had a houseful of kids.
I think we are learning a lot from each other about diet & HBP. The little short cuts to making it happen really help.
Fam
famnd
02-22-2008, 09:24 PM
Day #6
Wt. 167 1/4, b/p 136/58 p. 55
Calories 1123.3 44gm fat & 46gm protein
3 Fr. , 3 Veg, 3 Pro, 3 Fat, 2 Br. 3 Milk
Had one slice of cheese with an egg plus orange slush.
Was very busy working in the house & wasn't hungry so I waited until 4:30 pm to eat. Had a 2 Bread Pizza (homemade) with veggies. It was so.............. good that I just didn't feel like eating my salad. Did have some raisons & walnuts in the Am too. So again I didn't stick to my planned meal. Maybe its because I have such a craving for green peppers & onions this week since I had bought a bunch on sale last week. I never tire of green peppers or tomatoes. Fam
Wt. 167 1/4, b/p 136/58 p. 55
Calories 1123.3 44gm fat & 46gm protein
3 Fr. , 3 Veg, 3 Pro, 3 Fat, 2 Br. 3 Milk
Had one slice of cheese with an egg plus orange slush.
Was very busy working in the house & wasn't hungry so I waited until 4:30 pm to eat. Had a 2 Bread Pizza (homemade) with veggies. It was so.............. good that I just didn't feel like eating my salad. Did have some raisons & walnuts in the Am too. So again I didn't stick to my planned meal. Maybe its because I have such a craving for green peppers & onions this week since I had bought a bunch on sale last week. I never tire of green peppers or tomatoes. Fam
famnd
02-23-2008, 12:23 AM
Spagetti (don't like the word Pasta which means paste in Italian) Sauce
6oz Contadina tomato paste (this is also good as a base for bread pizza)
8 oz tomato sauce Hunts
2 large cans tomatoes Hunts
1-2 large green peppers cut into squares
2 yellow onions
garlic if tolerated (I can't anymore)
oregano (1 tablespoon) & basil 2 tsp
Simmer with one bay leaf for 2-3 hrs.
I make a huge stock pot & freeze in those Ball freeze or can jars
This sauce is my comfort food. It can be eaten as a snack with or without spagetti. Oh, forgot saute the peppers & onions in olive oil. With a tsp of par. or romato cheese, it is a treat. There's no guilt because you are eating veggies even the taste is fantastic. Beth, I can't believe you haven't have spagetti for months. My husband only wants spagetti when he is sick so I guess it is the new chicken soup at our house. I also like to saute eggplant to put on top when I can find a firm eggplant. I can relate to your car freezing woes as I lived in Fargo & the southern tier of NY. When my husband was gone with the Military, I had to get up & trudge out to the barn to take care of the animals at 6am before going to college. I love winter though, because I get so overheated. The cooler temps really energize me. We still get some 10 degree days down here in TN but it warms up so fast that I am roasting by the time I get home from my walk. Think Spring Beth. Fam
6oz Contadina tomato paste (this is also good as a base for bread pizza)
8 oz tomato sauce Hunts
2 large cans tomatoes Hunts
1-2 large green peppers cut into squares
2 yellow onions
garlic if tolerated (I can't anymore)
oregano (1 tablespoon) & basil 2 tsp
Simmer with one bay leaf for 2-3 hrs.
I make a huge stock pot & freeze in those Ball freeze or can jars
This sauce is my comfort food. It can be eaten as a snack with or without spagetti. Oh, forgot saute the peppers & onions in olive oil. With a tsp of par. or romato cheese, it is a treat. There's no guilt because you are eating veggies even the taste is fantastic. Beth, I can't believe you haven't have spagetti for months. My husband only wants spagetti when he is sick so I guess it is the new chicken soup at our house. I also like to saute eggplant to put on top when I can find a firm eggplant. I can relate to your car freezing woes as I lived in Fargo & the southern tier of NY. When my husband was gone with the Military, I had to get up & trudge out to the barn to take care of the animals at 6am before going to college. I love winter though, because I get so overheated. The cooler temps really energize me. We still get some 10 degree days down here in TN but it warms up so fast that I am roasting by the time I get home from my walk. Think Spring Beth. Fam
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 08:11 AM
Beth, just posting to wish you continued sucess with your diet.
Thanks, marantz!
Bethsheba
Thanks, marantz!
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 08:27 AM
rbb
So good of you to post and to let us know that you continue to use the meal plan after 4years!! How long did it take you for it to become "habit", if you don't mind my asking?
I will take your suggestions about recording...will set up my progress on an Excel sheet because I'm more familiar with it than with Word. Wasn't quite sure about the "daily steps" you put in the first column....what kind of steps are you referring to?
Do write that book! More people need to know about this plan...my doctor didn't tell me, a friend did. Why should we be taking meds when food is so much more interesting, economical, and beneficial? And I can't say enough about the menus...easy, delicious, and an added bennie...the stuff I buy doesn't seem to be wasted as there is always another meal/menu it will be used in...for me (along with the drop in pressures) that may have been the biggest surprise!
Thanks so much for your encouragement, rbb. And for what it's worth, although I've only been on this plan for only 2 weeks, I can see me using this plan the rest of my life...
Bethsheba
So good of you to post and to let us know that you continue to use the meal plan after 4years!! How long did it take you for it to become "habit", if you don't mind my asking?
I will take your suggestions about recording...will set up my progress on an Excel sheet because I'm more familiar with it than with Word. Wasn't quite sure about the "daily steps" you put in the first column....what kind of steps are you referring to?
Do write that book! More people need to know about this plan...my doctor didn't tell me, a friend did. Why should we be taking meds when food is so much more interesting, economical, and beneficial? And I can't say enough about the menus...easy, delicious, and an added bennie...the stuff I buy doesn't seem to be wasted as there is always another meal/menu it will be used in...for me (along with the drop in pressures) that may have been the biggest surprise!
Thanks so much for your encouragement, rbb. And for what it's worth, although I've only been on this plan for only 2 weeks, I can see me using this plan the rest of my life...
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 08:44 AM
Thanks for the kind words, famnd. I'm happy about those numbers, too. But I'm even happier about the meal plan as I think it may change more than my numbers.
Yes, I would wonder about your bp returning to normal, too. Who knows what would happen...but on the other side of that who knows what will happen in the future? A reverse?
...Did you see that article in the news regarding cat owners versus dog owners? It seems cat owners have less of a chance of getting a stroke or heart attack in the study.
Well, they're wrong! They obviously haven't read about my little boy kitty who is nototius for requiring the assistance of several public service providers in my village (due to anonymity, I can't reveal the details here, :(). Let's just say that his antics can elevate my stress levels, and send my pressures through the roof!! I had to get up in the middle of the night because I heard the dialing of a phone...got up to find that he had turned on the fax machine and was sending faxes to someone I hope I won't ever hear from, :D. This am I found the batteries to my mouse in the bathroom, the cover to the mouse in the bedroom, and a damaged roller in my mouse under the desk! I'm not happy. It's a nice theory about strokes and heart attacks, but I'm sure it applies to other pet caregivers, :D.
I am so afraid of getting sick again after my bout with a cold virsu in Dec. It just takes so long to catch up. I feel the same way.
I think we are learning a lot from each other about diet & HBP. The little short cuts to making it happen really help. Yes, and it can help make it more FUN:bouncing:
Bethsheba
Yes, I would wonder about your bp returning to normal, too. Who knows what would happen...but on the other side of that who knows what will happen in the future? A reverse?
...Did you see that article in the news regarding cat owners versus dog owners? It seems cat owners have less of a chance of getting a stroke or heart attack in the study.
Well, they're wrong! They obviously haven't read about my little boy kitty who is nototius for requiring the assistance of several public service providers in my village (due to anonymity, I can't reveal the details here, :(). Let's just say that his antics can elevate my stress levels, and send my pressures through the roof!! I had to get up in the middle of the night because I heard the dialing of a phone...got up to find that he had turned on the fax machine and was sending faxes to someone I hope I won't ever hear from, :D. This am I found the batteries to my mouse in the bathroom, the cover to the mouse in the bedroom, and a damaged roller in my mouse under the desk! I'm not happy. It's a nice theory about strokes and heart attacks, but I'm sure it applies to other pet caregivers, :D.
I am so afraid of getting sick again after my bout with a cold virsu in Dec. It just takes so long to catch up. I feel the same way.
I think we are learning a lot from each other about diet & HBP. The little short cuts to making it happen really help. Yes, and it can help make it more FUN:bouncing:
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 08:49 AM
It was so.............. good that I just didn't feel like eating my salad. .... I never tire of green peppers or tomatoes. Fam
That's what happens to me, too...I'm going to try to eat my greens first! I feel the same way about green/red/yellow/orange peppers and tomatos...if nothing else, I simply love to look at the colors.
Bethsheba
That's what happens to me, too...I'm going to try to eat my greens first! I feel the same way about green/red/yellow/orange peppers and tomatos...if nothing else, I simply love to look at the colors.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 09:01 AM
...As for the flax seed, it is a great source of nutrients similar to those in the fish. In order to get the most out of it, it should be CRUSHED because it passes through the digestive system whole if it isn't.
Thanks so much for this info...I kind of wondered about it because the seeds are so small...they may pose a problem with someone with diverticulit, sorry about the spelling. I will grind my seeds in the coffee grinder or the blender...both will work.
...l check out some of the DASH recipes though I have limited time to spend in the kitchen unless I have a day off.
The recipes I've prepared take very little time in the kitchen...the soup that I made for lunch yesterday took 15 min max and that was only because it too about 9 minutes for the tortellini to boil.
... The antihypertensive medications so many of us have to take, which initiate weight gain, do not help. :(
How well I know...if I hadn't gained 35 pounds on bp meds, my pressures would be normal without this meal plan!!
Hubby was going to take me to the ER last night. I feel better now. I hope it is going away and things will get back to normal. Thank you for your concern. :)
Do be gentle with yourself, flowergirl. You've gone through so very, very much...hope your day will be a good one.
Bethsheba
Thanks so much for this info...I kind of wondered about it because the seeds are so small...they may pose a problem with someone with diverticulit, sorry about the spelling. I will grind my seeds in the coffee grinder or the blender...both will work.
...l check out some of the DASH recipes though I have limited time to spend in the kitchen unless I have a day off.
The recipes I've prepared take very little time in the kitchen...the soup that I made for lunch yesterday took 15 min max and that was only because it too about 9 minutes for the tortellini to boil.
... The antihypertensive medications so many of us have to take, which initiate weight gain, do not help. :(
How well I know...if I hadn't gained 35 pounds on bp meds, my pressures would be normal without this meal plan!!
Hubby was going to take me to the ER last night. I feel better now. I hope it is going away and things will get back to normal. Thank you for your concern. :)
Do be gentle with yourself, flowergirl. You've gone through so very, very much...hope your day will be a good one.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 09:15 AM
Thanks for the recipe, famnd. Will have to try this with my low sodium tomato substitutes and whole wheat pasta! I should freeze well so I won't have to eat it all at once, :D.
Oh, I had 5 different varieties of eggplant in the garden last summer...I like eggplant, too!
[QUOTE]...I can relate to your car freezing woes as I lived in Fargo & the southern tier of NY. Yes, Fargo would describe it well. If we continue the way we have been, we will be breaking records for snowfall and freezing temps that they haven't seen in over 100 years...:( Spring flowers are what get me through a "normal" winter but the animals are hungry, perhaps starving, and the flowering bushes and trees have been stripped to the ground (the snow is several feet up so the damage is extensive). I don't how the birds manage...I have a heated bird bath so they can have water (critical for flight), but even it is frozen.
When my husband was gone with the Military, I had to get up & trudge out to the barn to take care of the animals at 6am before going to college. You understand.
Bethsheba
Oh, I had 5 different varieties of eggplant in the garden last summer...I like eggplant, too!
[QUOTE]...I can relate to your car freezing woes as I lived in Fargo & the southern tier of NY. Yes, Fargo would describe it well. If we continue the way we have been, we will be breaking records for snowfall and freezing temps that they haven't seen in over 100 years...:( Spring flowers are what get me through a "normal" winter but the animals are hungry, perhaps starving, and the flowering bushes and trees have been stripped to the ground (the snow is several feet up so the damage is extensive). I don't how the birds manage...I have a heated bird bath so they can have water (critical for flight), but even it is frozen.
When my husband was gone with the Military, I had to get up & trudge out to the barn to take care of the animals at 6am before going to college. You understand.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-23-2008, 09:58 AM
Day 12, An interesting day food wise...
b shredded wheat with prunes
milk, skim
orange juice
toast with margarine
l Here's where it starts to get interesting...
New Recipe:bouncing:, Tortellini and Bean Soup
1 tsp olive oil
2 cups roughly chopped whie onions (I used yellow because I had yellow)
1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
3 cloves garlic
1 tsp Italian seasoning (herbs, no salt)
1/2 cup water
2 cups roughly chopped spinach (my spinach had small leaves, I didn't chop it)
16 oz can of no salt added navy beans, drained and rinsed
14.5 can low sodium chicken broth (couldn't find this so I substituted a can of low fat chicken noodle soup)
14.5 oz can of no salt added tomatoes (I used what I had the stuff with the salt)
14 oz can of aartichoke hearts packed in water
9 oz of cheese tortellini (I used the one with the green and white pasta)
Sautee (medium heat) onions, bell pepper, garlric, and seasoning in heated olive oil for 5 minutes or until ingredients are tender. Add water, spinach, beans, broth, tomatoes with juice, and artichokes to pot. Turn heat to high and bring to boil. Lower heat and simmer 2 min...add tortellini and cook thoroughly (about 5-7) minutes if using fresh, not frozen, torellini.
This was beautiful....the bright reds (tomatoes and peppers), with dark green spinach, medium green artichokes, and pale green pasta against a backround of creamy white beans. And good...oh so very good....it's not something I would not make in warmer months but it certainly was the perfect meal for a very cold, bitter day! About 15 minutes prep time...
Hard crust roll with margarine
Tossed salad
Milk
New recipe, :bouncing:Chocolate dipped fruit (this was on the meal plan, :angel:] Plan called for pineapple, strawberries, and a banana...but was out of bananas, and didn't want to open a "new" can of pineapple, so substituted frozen strawberries and an apple dipped in plain old chocolate syrup, of all things. Very good but I didn't feel the need to binge!
Supper This gets interesting, too.
It has been too cold to pick up the things on my meal plan and thus far, I've done well with substitutions (well except I used tomatoes with salt, :(). Rather than pull out some of the soup or leftover sweet/sour pork that was on my plan, I pulled out some quiche that I had made and froze before taking the "Challenge". Quiche (made of lots of eggs, milk, butter, and in this case swiss cheese and bacon) is one of my favorite foods and I love to have it with a tossed salad and one glass of dry white wine...well, I didn't have wine, but I did have the quiche...the surprise? It didn't taste so good...I couldn't believe it!!! It's been one of my favorite foods!!!! No, no freezer burn...I put it in the freezer just before I started this plan.
Soooo. Although Friday was an interesting day, I'm paying the price today...the sodium in the tomatoes and in the quiche (bacon, remember?) showed up in my stats, :(...and in my tissues as I am puffy around the eyes, and fingers.
BP 122/91, pulse 61 5:13 am
BP 128/92, pulse 72 5:25 am
Weight, up a pound....I am sure this is water weight because I am not eating all of my veggies and because the foods I ate yesterday had sodium. From what i've read, a gain of 2 or more pounds a day, or 5 or more pounds a week is considered a rapid weight gain and may be a side effect of meds (water retention). Because I'm not on meds, and because my tissues are puffy, I think it is safe to assume this is water retention. Will focus on eating my veggies, and eating salt free today!
b shredded wheat with prunes
milk, skim
orange juice
toast with margarine
l Here's where it starts to get interesting...
New Recipe:bouncing:, Tortellini and Bean Soup
1 tsp olive oil
2 cups roughly chopped whie onions (I used yellow because I had yellow)
1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
3 cloves garlic
1 tsp Italian seasoning (herbs, no salt)
1/2 cup water
2 cups roughly chopped spinach (my spinach had small leaves, I didn't chop it)
16 oz can of no salt added navy beans, drained and rinsed
14.5 can low sodium chicken broth (couldn't find this so I substituted a can of low fat chicken noodle soup)
14.5 oz can of no salt added tomatoes (I used what I had the stuff with the salt)
14 oz can of aartichoke hearts packed in water
9 oz of cheese tortellini (I used the one with the green and white pasta)
Sautee (medium heat) onions, bell pepper, garlric, and seasoning in heated olive oil for 5 minutes or until ingredients are tender. Add water, spinach, beans, broth, tomatoes with juice, and artichokes to pot. Turn heat to high and bring to boil. Lower heat and simmer 2 min...add tortellini and cook thoroughly (about 5-7) minutes if using fresh, not frozen, torellini.
This was beautiful....the bright reds (tomatoes and peppers), with dark green spinach, medium green artichokes, and pale green pasta against a backround of creamy white beans. And good...oh so very good....it's not something I would not make in warmer months but it certainly was the perfect meal for a very cold, bitter day! About 15 minutes prep time...
Hard crust roll with margarine
Tossed salad
Milk
New recipe, :bouncing:Chocolate dipped fruit (this was on the meal plan, :angel:] Plan called for pineapple, strawberries, and a banana...but was out of bananas, and didn't want to open a "new" can of pineapple, so substituted frozen strawberries and an apple dipped in plain old chocolate syrup, of all things. Very good but I didn't feel the need to binge!
Supper This gets interesting, too.
It has been too cold to pick up the things on my meal plan and thus far, I've done well with substitutions (well except I used tomatoes with salt, :(). Rather than pull out some of the soup or leftover sweet/sour pork that was on my plan, I pulled out some quiche that I had made and froze before taking the "Challenge". Quiche (made of lots of eggs, milk, butter, and in this case swiss cheese and bacon) is one of my favorite foods and I love to have it with a tossed salad and one glass of dry white wine...well, I didn't have wine, but I did have the quiche...the surprise? It didn't taste so good...I couldn't believe it!!! It's been one of my favorite foods!!!! No, no freezer burn...I put it in the freezer just before I started this plan.
Soooo. Although Friday was an interesting day, I'm paying the price today...the sodium in the tomatoes and in the quiche (bacon, remember?) showed up in my stats, :(...and in my tissues as I am puffy around the eyes, and fingers.
BP 122/91, pulse 61 5:13 am
BP 128/92, pulse 72 5:25 am
Weight, up a pound....I am sure this is water weight because I am not eating all of my veggies and because the foods I ate yesterday had sodium. From what i've read, a gain of 2 or more pounds a day, or 5 or more pounds a week is considered a rapid weight gain and may be a side effect of meds (water retention). Because I'm not on meds, and because my tissues are puffy, I think it is safe to assume this is water retention. Will focus on eating my veggies, and eating salt free today!
bethsheba
02-24-2008, 10:34 AM
Day 12
Winter has officially gotten to me so I took the day off...will take off today and tomorrow as well for the sake of regaining my sanity.
Did not follow any menu yesterday...didn't eat meals, :(, and did eat no no's (low sodium but still no no's)...didn't record, nor did I feel like recording my food...but I did eat foods on the plan. Will return "officially" to the meal plan on Monday...in other words, "to be continuted"!
BP 119/81, pulse 69 8:17
BP 120/92, pulse 85 8:22
Weight, I'm afraid to look, :(.
Winter has officially gotten to me so I took the day off...will take off today and tomorrow as well for the sake of regaining my sanity.
Did not follow any menu yesterday...didn't eat meals, :(, and did eat no no's (low sodium but still no no's)...didn't record, nor did I feel like recording my food...but I did eat foods on the plan. Will return "officially" to the meal plan on Monday...in other words, "to be continuted"!
BP 119/81, pulse 69 8:17
BP 120/92, pulse 85 8:22
Weight, I'm afraid to look, :(.
Machaon
02-24-2008, 12:17 PM
Day 12
Winter has officially gotten to me so I took the day off...will take off today and tomorrow as well for the sake of regaining my sanity.
Winter is getting to us, too! But, in a different way. Record high temps near 90. In fact, my AC is running right now. I need to get up on the roof and do some repairs, but it is just too hot!
Will return "officially" to the meal plan on Monday...in other words, "to be continued"!
I know how difficult it is to stay on a diet. My diet is extreme. Many times, during the three+ years of my ever-evolving diet, as my health was significantly improving, I would push the envelope by adding, or increasing, better tasting stuff. Then, if my blood pressure went higher, and I would have more breathing problems and heart irregularities, I would have to surrender to the diet gods, and more rigorously follow Their rules.
I am looking forward to the return, of your very interesting thread. In my opinion, a healthy diet can provide relief for many different illnesses, so thanks for your efforts! :wave:
Winter has officially gotten to me so I took the day off...will take off today and tomorrow as well for the sake of regaining my sanity.
Winter is getting to us, too! But, in a different way. Record high temps near 90. In fact, my AC is running right now. I need to get up on the roof and do some repairs, but it is just too hot!
Will return "officially" to the meal plan on Monday...in other words, "to be continued"!
I know how difficult it is to stay on a diet. My diet is extreme. Many times, during the three+ years of my ever-evolving diet, as my health was significantly improving, I would push the envelope by adding, or increasing, better tasting stuff. Then, if my blood pressure went higher, and I would have more breathing problems and heart irregularities, I would have to surrender to the diet gods, and more rigorously follow Their rules.
I am looking forward to the return, of your very interesting thread. In my opinion, a healthy diet can provide relief for many different illnesses, so thanks for your efforts! :wave:
rbbb
02-25-2008, 02:57 PM
rbb
How long did it take you for it to become "habit", if you don't mind my asking?
Wasn't quite sure about the "daily steps" you put in the first column....what kind of steps are you referring to?
And I can't say enough about the menus...easy, delicious, and an added bennie...the stuff I buy doesn't seem to be wasted as there is always another meal/menu it will be used in...
How long for it to become second nature? I never felt like I was under any pressure to conform. For the most part, as I said, I was more concerned that the number of portions was TOO much -- i even wrote the DASH people once to ask if their calculations were off or something. However the 'portions' are ever in the mind whenever I start to look for some food. Is always ... "well have I had any fruit", or "Not Enough Veggies today". Or "Yeah I can have one handfull of chips or a few cookies and that it IT". (And never take the BAG with you of course).
Daily Steps are the '10,000 Steps A Day" goal -- I've used a Pedometer every day for most of those 4 years (wore out a few!). Not always getting my '10' but I am usually mindful of it if I am sitting like a slug .. then I get up and Run In Place or go for a walk for a while to get the steps -- pretty good way to do it and the steps are right there on the meter -- you can't fool yourself that you got enough exercise today when it says otherwise.
I have to admit I seldom even follow the exact DASH recipes. BUT with anything we eat I am mindful of portions and reducing the meat and increasing the salad and veggie 'sides'. At a restaurant will usually split those giant meals right down the middle and take half home. It really does get to be second nature.
One other thing, for what iit is worth. For me, I don't think I could ever lose much weight without extra exercise to go along with it. OK maybe I just eat too much but it is easier to lose when the exercise program -- especially a sport like volleyball or swimming -- is there to soak up some calories.
that's my story and I'm stickin' to it... (5000 steps so far today ... 13,282 yesterday).
rb
How long did it take you for it to become "habit", if you don't mind my asking?
Wasn't quite sure about the "daily steps" you put in the first column....what kind of steps are you referring to?
And I can't say enough about the menus...easy, delicious, and an added bennie...the stuff I buy doesn't seem to be wasted as there is always another meal/menu it will be used in...
How long for it to become second nature? I never felt like I was under any pressure to conform. For the most part, as I said, I was more concerned that the number of portions was TOO much -- i even wrote the DASH people once to ask if their calculations were off or something. However the 'portions' are ever in the mind whenever I start to look for some food. Is always ... "well have I had any fruit", or "Not Enough Veggies today". Or "Yeah I can have one handfull of chips or a few cookies and that it IT". (And never take the BAG with you of course).
Daily Steps are the '10,000 Steps A Day" goal -- I've used a Pedometer every day for most of those 4 years (wore out a few!). Not always getting my '10' but I am usually mindful of it if I am sitting like a slug .. then I get up and Run In Place or go for a walk for a while to get the steps -- pretty good way to do it and the steps are right there on the meter -- you can't fool yourself that you got enough exercise today when it says otherwise.
I have to admit I seldom even follow the exact DASH recipes. BUT with anything we eat I am mindful of portions and reducing the meat and increasing the salad and veggie 'sides'. At a restaurant will usually split those giant meals right down the middle and take half home. It really does get to be second nature.
One other thing, for what iit is worth. For me, I don't think I could ever lose much weight without extra exercise to go along with it. OK maybe I just eat too much but it is easier to lose when the exercise program -- especially a sport like volleyball or swimming -- is there to soak up some calories.
that's my story and I'm stickin' to it... (5000 steps so far today ... 13,282 yesterday).
rb
bethsheba
02-25-2008, 08:06 PM
Winter is getting to us, too! But, in a different way. Record high temps near 90. In fact, my AC is running right now. I need to get up on the roof and do some repairs, but it is just too hot!
Don't you wish we could "share" some of our weather...your 90 degree and our 30 degree would make a very nice, nice average of 60, :cool:!
....My diet is extreme.
What makes it extreme, beerzoids?
Then, if my blood pressure went higher, and I would have more breathing problems and heart irregularities, I would have to surrender to the diet gods, and more rigorously follow Their rules.
:D, Who are the diet gods?
... In my opinion, a healthy diet can provide relief for many different illnesses, so thanks for your efforts! :wave:
Yes, I believe diet and exercise are everything...now about that exercise, :confused:.
Bethsheba
I may go camping this week...in the living room. I'm thinking of inviting some friends over for the trip...we're all going zonkers (altho today's thaw has been a blessing:angel:...before the next storm, :() If I'm not on the boards in the next few days, it's because I'll be looking for the gear and setting up the tent...but first I have to move the furniture.
Don't you wish we could "share" some of our weather...your 90 degree and our 30 degree would make a very nice, nice average of 60, :cool:!
....My diet is extreme.
What makes it extreme, beerzoids?
Then, if my blood pressure went higher, and I would have more breathing problems and heart irregularities, I would have to surrender to the diet gods, and more rigorously follow Their rules.
:D, Who are the diet gods?
... In my opinion, a healthy diet can provide relief for many different illnesses, so thanks for your efforts! :wave:
Yes, I believe diet and exercise are everything...now about that exercise, :confused:.
Bethsheba
I may go camping this week...in the living room. I'm thinking of inviting some friends over for the trip...we're all going zonkers (altho today's thaw has been a blessing:angel:...before the next storm, :() If I'm not on the boards in the next few days, it's because I'll be looking for the gear and setting up the tent...but first I have to move the furniture.
bethsheba
02-25-2008, 08:23 PM
Rb,
I'm so glad you decided to pop in!!!
Thanks for the heads up on the portions...that's where I'm straying. I eat the foods but don't measure but I figure I can work on that as I go along.
The 10,000 steps a day is new to me...guess I had better READ the book instead of just referring to it, :). I've got a pedometer so I will get it out and add the column to my sheet. How big is your sheet? And where do you keep it? if you don't mind my asking.
Exercise is hard for me for several reasons...the first being I never liked it to begin with...the second is bp meds temporarily crippled me so I have lost ALOT of muscle mass and flexibility so I'm back to square one....all the more reason to get out there and exercise:)! And yes, I agree with you. Weight is best lost with exercise!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us! It helps to know that one doesn't have to be "precise" as too many people take an "all or nothing" attitude when it comes to lifestyle changes. That's why I wanted to "chronicle" my DASH challenge...I knew it would work even if I didn't do it perfectly!
Take care, rb!
Bethsheba
I'm so glad you decided to pop in!!!
Thanks for the heads up on the portions...that's where I'm straying. I eat the foods but don't measure but I figure I can work on that as I go along.
The 10,000 steps a day is new to me...guess I had better READ the book instead of just referring to it, :). I've got a pedometer so I will get it out and add the column to my sheet. How big is your sheet? And where do you keep it? if you don't mind my asking.
Exercise is hard for me for several reasons...the first being I never liked it to begin with...the second is bp meds temporarily crippled me so I have lost ALOT of muscle mass and flexibility so I'm back to square one....all the more reason to get out there and exercise:)! And yes, I agree with you. Weight is best lost with exercise!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us! It helps to know that one doesn't have to be "precise" as too many people take an "all or nothing" attitude when it comes to lifestyle changes. That's why I wanted to "chronicle" my DASH challenge...I knew it would work even if I didn't do it perfectly!
Take care, rb!
Bethsheba
Machaon
02-25-2008, 09:34 PM
What makes it extreme, beerzoids?
My five daily meals, and three daily snacks, mean that I am either eating, or preparing to eat, about 50% of the time while I am awake.
:D, Who are the diet gods?
They are the ones who set the rules about how many calories I can eat without health problems.
Then there are the MCS gods, who determine what kind of normal, everyday things cause me to have increased health problems.
Yes, I believe diet and exercise are everything...now about that exercise, :confused:.
Included in my exercise regimen is two, 30 minute walking sessions, down the hallway in my home and back. We put on our favorite music, and walk back and forth and bs. It makes for enjoyable exercise.
I may go camping this week...in the living room. I'm thinking of inviting some friends over for the trip...we're all going zonkers (altho today's thaw has been a blessing:angel:...before the next storm, :() If I'm not on the boards in the next few days, it's because I'll be looking for the gear and setting up the tent...but first I have to move the furniture.
Don't forget to bring flint, so that you can make fire, and have your cellphone batteries fully charged.
You might consider digging your latrine in a corner of your living room, away from the TV, so that there is some level of privacy. :D:
Just some helpful advice! :jester:
My five daily meals, and three daily snacks, mean that I am either eating, or preparing to eat, about 50% of the time while I am awake.
:D, Who are the diet gods?
They are the ones who set the rules about how many calories I can eat without health problems.
Then there are the MCS gods, who determine what kind of normal, everyday things cause me to have increased health problems.
Yes, I believe diet and exercise are everything...now about that exercise, :confused:.
Included in my exercise regimen is two, 30 minute walking sessions, down the hallway in my home and back. We put on our favorite music, and walk back and forth and bs. It makes for enjoyable exercise.
I may go camping this week...in the living room. I'm thinking of inviting some friends over for the trip...we're all going zonkers (altho today's thaw has been a blessing:angel:...before the next storm, :() If I'm not on the boards in the next few days, it's because I'll be looking for the gear and setting up the tent...but first I have to move the furniture.
Don't forget to bring flint, so that you can make fire, and have your cellphone batteries fully charged.
You might consider digging your latrine in a corner of your living room, away from the TV, so that there is some level of privacy. :D:
Just some helpful advice! :jester:
bethsheba
02-26-2008, 07:04 PM
My five daily meals, and three daily snacks, mean that I am either eating, or preparing to eat, about 50% of the time while I am awake.
Now that's my kind of diet, ;).
Then there are the MCS gods, who determine what kind of normal, everyday things cause me to have increased health problems. Oh!
Included in my exercise regimen is two, 30 minute walking sessions, down the hallway in my home and back. We put on our favorite music, and walk back and forth and bs. It makes for enjoyable exercise. Sounds kind of romantic, beerzoids...but definitely good execise, ;).
Don't forget to bring flint, so that you can make fire, and have your cellphone batteries fully charged.
Will do, beerzoids, except for the cell phone. The purpose of camping is 1. To eat s'mores... and 2. to get away from tvs, radios, and telephones!!
You might consider digging your latrine in a corner of your living room, away from the TV, so that there is some level of privacy. :D:
:D:D:D You, are quite a charactor!!
Take care, beerzoids!
Bethsheba
Now that's my kind of diet, ;).
Then there are the MCS gods, who determine what kind of normal, everyday things cause me to have increased health problems. Oh!
Included in my exercise regimen is two, 30 minute walking sessions, down the hallway in my home and back. We put on our favorite music, and walk back and forth and bs. It makes for enjoyable exercise. Sounds kind of romantic, beerzoids...but definitely good execise, ;).
Don't forget to bring flint, so that you can make fire, and have your cellphone batteries fully charged.
Will do, beerzoids, except for the cell phone. The purpose of camping is 1. To eat s'mores... and 2. to get away from tvs, radios, and telephones!!
You might consider digging your latrine in a corner of your living room, away from the TV, so that there is some level of privacy. :D:
:D:D:D You, are quite a charactor!!
Take care, beerzoids!
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-26-2008, 07:07 PM
Sorry for delaying the sequel, :), but I really needed to take a time out...I didn't stray much from the plan but I didn't record anything either. Will touch base again tomorrow.
Bethsheba
Bethsheba
bethsheba
02-28-2008, 09:10 AM
Day 13
It feels good to be back on the plan, despite some set backs!
b shredded wheat with prunes
milk, skim
orange juice
had extra shredded wheat so passed on the whole wheat toast
l :bouncing: New Recipe! Blackened Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes
Have wanted to try this since last week, and finally made it for lunch...when I got half way thru the recipe (and yes, I know you should read it BEFORE making it), I realized it was simply beef stew, :D. Personally, I like my beef stew simmered with a little burgundy wine, but that's a no no if you are on meds and weight loss plans so this recipe was A ok, not as good as with the wine, but A ok...and I think it would be a hit with the men.
lean top round of beef
paprika
regano
chili powder
garlic powder
black pepper, freshly ground
cayenne pepper
dry mustard
red potatoes
chopped onions
beef broth (low sodium)
water
galic
carrots
kale, fresh (I used fresh spinach instead)
Orange juice and strawberry shake (I"m out of milk)
And that was lunch...oh, it took about 30 min max for prep and I have some frozen for the next unplanned meals.
d Was meeting friends for dinner at a better than average restaurant...so called several days ago and made arrangements to have a low sodium vegetarian meal. It appears as if they "forgot" my request (I was served after my friends) and although the food was marvelous, it tasted to me like it was well seasoned (salt) and sauteed in animal fat, :(. This did not stop me from eating it (well, nothing can stop me from eating anything, :rolleyes:) but I may have paid the price, albeit temporarily.) I must check my DASH book and review the hints for eating out whether it be fast food places or upper scale.
Oh, and I should mention that over the last two days I finished up some bacon :nono::nono:, and finished up my frozen quiche so that may have played a role in the numbers...
BP 146/90, pulse 73 6:45
BP 125/92, pulse 77 6:49
Bethsheba
It feels good to be back on the plan, despite some set backs!
b shredded wheat with prunes
milk, skim
orange juice
had extra shredded wheat so passed on the whole wheat toast
l :bouncing: New Recipe! Blackened Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes
Have wanted to try this since last week, and finally made it for lunch...when I got half way thru the recipe (and yes, I know you should read it BEFORE making it), I realized it was simply beef stew, :D. Personally, I like my beef stew simmered with a little burgundy wine, but that's a no no if you are on meds and weight loss plans so this recipe was A ok, not as good as with the wine, but A ok...and I think it would be a hit with the men.
lean top round of beef
paprika
regano
chili powder
garlic powder
black pepper, freshly ground
cayenne pepper
dry mustard
red potatoes
chopped onions
beef broth (low sodium)
water
galic
carrots
kale, fresh (I used fresh spinach instead)
Orange juice and strawberry shake (I"m out of milk)
And that was lunch...oh, it took about 30 min max for prep and I have some frozen for the next unplanned meals.
d Was meeting friends for dinner at a better than average restaurant...so called several days ago and made arrangements to have a low sodium vegetarian meal. It appears as if they "forgot" my request (I was served after my friends) and although the food was marvelous, it tasted to me like it was well seasoned (salt) and sauteed in animal fat, :(. This did not stop me from eating it (well, nothing can stop me from eating anything, :rolleyes:) but I may have paid the price, albeit temporarily.) I must check my DASH book and review the hints for eating out whether it be fast food places or upper scale.
Oh, and I should mention that over the last two days I finished up some bacon :nono::nono:, and finished up my frozen quiche so that may have played a role in the numbers...
BP 146/90, pulse 73 6:45
BP 125/92, pulse 77 6:49
Bethsheba
flowergirl2day
02-28-2008, 01:20 PM
Hi Beth, :)
your recipe sounds like a variation of a simple stew. Basic but delicious, especially when one is hungry! I make stews occassionally when we get tired of eating chicken & fish and use the leanest cuts of beef and even then try not to have too much of the meat. We have the stew with whole wheat pasta or white rice (he won't eat the dark stuff). I have always made my stews with red wine, which my husband uses extensively in salad dressings (wine, olive oil & vinegar) and other dishes whenever he cooks. The alcohol in the wine is lost with cooking. The calories probably are NOT.
I am sorry about your dissapointing experience at the restaurant. When ordering while on a special diet, it helps to opt for stuff that does not require extensive preparation. Stick with simple menus and select foods that have to be cooked while you wait, seated at the table (broiled, baked, sauteed etc). Meals topped with sauces, gravies, dressings, coatings and the like are out - these are cooked ahead of time in large quantities and you can bet they contain sodium and often MSG as well, not to mention large quantities of the really yummy stuff - butter. :D Opt for salads with dressing on the side & grilled or broiled foods, the simpler the meal the better.
You are doing great! Keep up the good work. :angel:
flowergirl
your recipe sounds like a variation of a simple stew. Basic but delicious, especially when one is hungry! I make stews occassionally when we get tired of eating chicken & fish and use the leanest cuts of beef and even then try not to have too much of the meat. We have the stew with whole wheat pasta or white rice (he won't eat the dark stuff). I have always made my stews with red wine, which my husband uses extensively in salad dressings (wine, olive oil & vinegar) and other dishes whenever he cooks. The alcohol in the wine is lost with cooking. The calories probably are NOT.
I am sorry about your dissapointing experience at the restaurant. When ordering while on a special diet, it helps to opt for stuff that does not require extensive preparation. Stick with simple menus and select foods that have to be cooked while you wait, seated at the table (broiled, baked, sauteed etc). Meals topped with sauces, gravies, dressings, coatings and the like are out - these are cooked ahead of time in large quantities and you can bet they contain sodium and often MSG as well, not to mention large quantities of the really yummy stuff - butter. :D Opt for salads with dressing on the side & grilled or broiled foods, the simpler the meal the better.
You are doing great! Keep up the good work. :angel:
flowergirl
famnd
02-28-2008, 11:12 PM
Well, guess I'm not a reindeer cause I certainly can't DASH when it comes to grains!!! I made some oatmeal cookies (low fat/sugar) with a heaping 1/3 cup of seame seeds plus wheat germ, honey, & WW flour. I ate 6- 8 servings of grains a day. This made me so tired. I usually get tired when I eat grains so I try to limit mine to 2 servings & time that with taking a nap. If I didn't have acid reflux then perhaps I could eat 6 servings throughout the day to lessen the fatigue. I didn't see any change in my b/p from eating extra grains. Also, I ate more fruits which didn't seem to bother me as much as the grains.
Couldn't sleep last night because I started getting reflux. I forgot to eat a slice of cheese at dinner with my meds plus I got a little wild with the red pepper flakes on my spagetti. So today I'm in a recovery mode hoping I get enough potassium. My stomach is better but I don't think I better chance drinking orange juice.
So had 3 eggs, macroni & cheese (homemade), brocolli plus lots of tea. Tomrrow I should be better. Calories 1251 I'll try to stay close to 1200 calories which seems to be my limit. I can't stand feeling so stuffed with more calories even though my Dr. (Endo) seems to think that would prevent my body from going into starvation mode.
He did say that beta blockers do affect hunger sensations so that may be why I don't get physically hunger as much. I had asked him if the feeling of hunger is a good indication of needing more calories.
I seem to only need about 1200 calories a day or an average of 50 calories /hour during normal activities. If I eat a 200 calorie meal, I won't be physically hungry for 4-5 hrs. I've been doing some experimenting in the last couple of weeks. I think it is worthwhile to find out just how it feels to be physically hungry as opposed to just wanting to eat for the taste sensation. I know one thing, I'm tired of carrying around my 46 lb tummy :).
Beth, good planning. Making one dish for the table & one for the freezer. Dr. Laura says that about week 2 or three we have a set back in losing weight so we just have to pick ourselves up & start all over again. I'm learning a lot doing this log-thanks for starting it. Fam
Couldn't sleep last night because I started getting reflux. I forgot to eat a slice of cheese at dinner with my meds plus I got a little wild with the red pepper flakes on my spagetti. So today I'm in a recovery mode hoping I get enough potassium. My stomach is better but I don't think I better chance drinking orange juice.
So had 3 eggs, macroni & cheese (homemade), brocolli plus lots of tea. Tomrrow I should be better. Calories 1251 I'll try to stay close to 1200 calories which seems to be my limit. I can't stand feeling so stuffed with more calories even though my Dr. (Endo) seems to think that would prevent my body from going into starvation mode.
He did say that beta blockers do affect hunger sensations so that may be why I don't get physically hunger as much. I had asked him if the feeling of hunger is a good indication of needing more calories.
I seem to only need about 1200 calories a day or an average of 50 calories /hour during normal activities. If I eat a 200 calorie meal, I won't be physically hungry for 4-5 hrs. I've been doing some experimenting in the last couple of weeks. I think it is worthwhile to find out just how it feels to be physically hungry as opposed to just wanting to eat for the taste sensation. I know one thing, I'm tired of carrying around my 46 lb tummy :).
Beth, good planning. Making one dish for the table & one for the freezer. Dr. Laura says that about week 2 or three we have a set back in losing weight so we just have to pick ourselves up & start all over again. I'm learning a lot doing this log-thanks for starting it. Fam
flowergirl2day
02-29-2008, 03:00 AM
Hi, :)
I wonder if one could be physically active on the 1200 calorie diet without being completely exhausted ALL the time. Could your diet with your super low calorie intake be the reason you have been feeling so fatigued? You probably need to increase your calorie intake to keep things working well. The main concern with such a low calorie diet long-term is that the body does not get enough nutrients to maintain proper function. I read diet reviews (not that they help me lose weight :().
I am glad you have incorporated all of the food groups into your diet. From what you described in an earlier post, it sounds like there's enough variety to keep it interesting and the foods are most certainly healthy. That is good! I know you cannot increase your exercise level which would help with the weight loss. Losing weight is never easy. We should trade places. I have problems staying AWAY from freshly baked bread. You can't eat yours. Oh dear!!! :(
take care, Fam.
flowergirl
I wonder if one could be physically active on the 1200 calorie diet without being completely exhausted ALL the time. Could your diet with your super low calorie intake be the reason you have been feeling so fatigued? You probably need to increase your calorie intake to keep things working well. The main concern with such a low calorie diet long-term is that the body does not get enough nutrients to maintain proper function. I read diet reviews (not that they help me lose weight :().
I am glad you have incorporated all of the food groups into your diet. From what you described in an earlier post, it sounds like there's enough variety to keep it interesting and the foods are most certainly healthy. That is good! I know you cannot increase your exercise level which would help with the weight loss. Losing weight is never easy. We should trade places. I have problems staying AWAY from freshly baked bread. You can't eat yours. Oh dear!!! :(
take care, Fam.
flowergirl
famnd
02-29-2008, 11:51 PM
Thanks for your concern, FG. To the best of my knowledge, 1200 calories for most women in my catagory (5'3") is adequate. Weight watchers diet is about 1200 calories. Trial & error have shown me that I don't lose weight on more calories unless I am doing very stressful exercise which I can't do.
Today, I was finally able to get back into the pool so I swam for 1 1/2 hrs & did knee exercises. It felt really good.
Good thing I love to exercise & have the time to do it. Otherwise I would probably weigh a lot more.
The extra fatigue during the last week was from eating too many oatmeal cookies & bread servings. I think I may have a mild gluten sensitivity. I may ask my Dr. to order some blood tests when my other ones are done this month.
Fam
Today, I was finally able to get back into the pool so I swam for 1 1/2 hrs & did knee exercises. It felt really good.
Good thing I love to exercise & have the time to do it. Otherwise I would probably weigh a lot more.
The extra fatigue during the last week was from eating too many oatmeal cookies & bread servings. I think I may have a mild gluten sensitivity. I may ask my Dr. to order some blood tests when my other ones are done this month.
Fam
famnd
03-01-2008, 12:01 AM
Today was a good day even though my schedule got turned upside down. Ate about 1551 calories (sloppy joes (bean), french fries, salad, apple & the usual other stuff). I used the broiler for the french fries this time & liked that better. It sure was tasty even though the meal didn't have all the fat & calories. Had two fruits, 7 vegetables, 48 gms Protein, & 2 sl bread, 50gms fat, & 3 servings milk. Fam
bethsheba
03-01-2008, 09:36 AM
...I have always made my stews with red wine, which my husband uses extensively in salad dressings (wine, olive oil & vinegar) and other dishes whenever he cooks. The alcohol in the wine is lost with cooking. The calories probably are NOT.
:)Thanks for the reminder, FG,! I tend to forget about those calories when I cook, :(. And yes, I use some wine with vinegar for the salad dressing, too, although not so much anymore (I buy the little 1 serving wine bottles so I can have a small glass of wine without throwing the rest out, or without having to use it in cooking).
..Opt for salads with dressing on the side & grilled or broiled foods, the simpler the meal the better....
Those are some very good tips!! And I'll keep it in mind. "Fortunately" on my budget I eat out rarely. I suppose this wasy why, in a way, my dining experience was somewhat disappointing.
Bethsheba
:)Thanks for the reminder, FG,! I tend to forget about those calories when I cook, :(. And yes, I use some wine with vinegar for the salad dressing, too, although not so much anymore (I buy the little 1 serving wine bottles so I can have a small glass of wine without throwing the rest out, or without having to use it in cooking).
..Opt for salads with dressing on the side & grilled or broiled foods, the simpler the meal the better....
Those are some very good tips!! And I'll keep it in mind. "Fortunately" on my budget I eat out rarely. I suppose this wasy why, in a way, my dining experience was somewhat disappointing.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
03-01-2008, 09:50 AM
Well, guess I'm not a reindeer cause I certainly can't DASH when it comes to grains!!!:D
... If I didn't have acid reflux then perhaps I could eat 6 servings throughout the day to lessen the fatigue. I didn't see any change in my b/p from eating extra grains. Also, I ate more fruits which didn't seem to bother me as much as the grains.
I would think that the grains would reduce the acid reflux but I don't know. Except for avoiding acidy food (like citrus fruits) I never watched my diet when I had relux. As far as the grains and bp, go, I think the grains help reduce the cholesterol levels, and as a result keep bp at lower levels long term...but I don't know. Like I said, I need to READ my book and not just use it as a reference.
...Couldn't sleep last night because I started getting reflux. Are you using your cpap? Are pressures up to snuff? I know that your meds are the primary cause of your ar, but every little treatment helps.
... I know one thing, I'm tired of carrying around my 46 lb tummy :).
This description puts a new "light" on my situation...I've never thought of it in those terms. I'm now going to focus on my weight (and exercise).
... Making one dish for the table & one for the freezer.
Famnd, For me, I think this was the most valuable lesson. It's not a matter of time as the recipes take from 15-45 minutes and are easy to prepare...but if I'm tired (I've shoveled ALOT of snow this winter), 15 minutes might as well be 15 hours. So this weekend I'm going to cook up 2 batches of soups, 2 entrees, and put together one hearty salad that I can fall back on when I'm not up to putting a meal together.
And Famnd, I too, have learned alot in the past two weeks. It makes a difference if you have to write stuff down...I never would have written it down if it hadn't been for the board. The board made me accountable...and the insights from you and the others were so very helpful...it made me think and it makes me want to plan better.
Bethsheba
... If I didn't have acid reflux then perhaps I could eat 6 servings throughout the day to lessen the fatigue. I didn't see any change in my b/p from eating extra grains. Also, I ate more fruits which didn't seem to bother me as much as the grains.
I would think that the grains would reduce the acid reflux but I don't know. Except for avoiding acidy food (like citrus fruits) I never watched my diet when I had relux. As far as the grains and bp, go, I think the grains help reduce the cholesterol levels, and as a result keep bp at lower levels long term...but I don't know. Like I said, I need to READ my book and not just use it as a reference.
...Couldn't sleep last night because I started getting reflux. Are you using your cpap? Are pressures up to snuff? I know that your meds are the primary cause of your ar, but every little treatment helps.
... I know one thing, I'm tired of carrying around my 46 lb tummy :).
This description puts a new "light" on my situation...I've never thought of it in those terms. I'm now going to focus on my weight (and exercise).
... Making one dish for the table & one for the freezer.
Famnd, For me, I think this was the most valuable lesson. It's not a matter of time as the recipes take from 15-45 minutes and are easy to prepare...but if I'm tired (I've shoveled ALOT of snow this winter), 15 minutes might as well be 15 hours. So this weekend I'm going to cook up 2 batches of soups, 2 entrees, and put together one hearty salad that I can fall back on when I'm not up to putting a meal together.
And Famnd, I too, have learned alot in the past two weeks. It makes a difference if you have to write stuff down...I never would have written it down if it hadn't been for the board. The board made me accountable...and the insights from you and the others were so very helpful...it made me think and it makes me want to plan better.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
03-01-2008, 09:58 AM
Today was a good day even though my schedule got turned upside down. Ate about 1551 calories (sloppy joes (bean), french fries, salad, apple & the usual other stuff)....
Famnd, just keep it warm, I'll be right over,:D! Don't buy french fries but may try them your style...could just spray them with PAM, broil and dunk in my low sodium catsup.
Bethsheba
Famnd, just keep it warm, I'll be right over,:D! Don't buy french fries but may try them your style...could just spray them with PAM, broil and dunk in my low sodium catsup.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
03-01-2008, 10:08 AM
Day 14...the last day of the challenge but not my last day of DASH!!
b shredded wheat with prunes (am officially out so from here it's back to the raisons
milk, am out of this as well
orange juice
l beef stew dash style
salad with 10 baby carrots
orange strawberry milkshake
2 slices whole wheat bread with margarine
d I winged this one...with my own recipe
cheese tortellini, white and green
white sauce with a little margarine, flour, a can skim evaporated milk
cheddar cheese, low fat
topped with steamed broccoli
orange juice
salad with a small glass of white wine (I'm not taking meds so I can drink this although I shouldn't due to weight problem).
BP 123/81, pulse 68 6:00 am
BP 123/88, pulse 74 6:12 am
Weight, I am afraid to look so will face the music tomorrow (per Famnd's suggestion of weighing the same day of week for monitoring weight versus relying on a daily reading for monitoring water retention).
Well, my "goal" was to reduce get an average of 120/80 so will tally the results on my DASH Week 2 Results thread...with additional comments there.
Bethsheba
b shredded wheat with prunes (am officially out so from here it's back to the raisons
milk, am out of this as well
orange juice
l beef stew dash style
salad with 10 baby carrots
orange strawberry milkshake
2 slices whole wheat bread with margarine
d I winged this one...with my own recipe
cheese tortellini, white and green
white sauce with a little margarine, flour, a can skim evaporated milk
cheddar cheese, low fat
topped with steamed broccoli
orange juice
salad with a small glass of white wine (I'm not taking meds so I can drink this although I shouldn't due to weight problem).
BP 123/81, pulse 68 6:00 am
BP 123/88, pulse 74 6:12 am
Weight, I am afraid to look so will face the music tomorrow (per Famnd's suggestion of weighing the same day of week for monitoring weight versus relying on a daily reading for monitoring water retention).
Well, my "goal" was to reduce get an average of 120/80 so will tally the results on my DASH Week 2 Results thread...with additional comments there.
Bethsheba