As a weight loss surgery patient, your meals should be built around protein. Protein can speed healing, preserve and promote lean muscle mass and boost your metabolism.  High protein foods should be eaten first at meals, then vegetables or fruits and finally grains.  Sweets may be unavoidable but can be controlled.  Gastric bypass patient especially can suffer negative consequences (dumping syndrome) from over consumption of sugar.  Not to mention sugars are high in empty calories and only provide temporary satisfaction.  After weight loss surgery, many patients at our Louisiana office find a new appreciation for food and for flavor.

The Surgical Specialists of Louisiana would like to provide you with tips for dining at your favorite resturant.  But, first, it’s Summertime and it’s hot!  Are you looking for a way to cool off without stopping at the closest snowball stand?  Try one of these great recipes.
Peppermint Shake
1 pkg. MyWeight French Vanilla Shake
1cup cold water
5 [...]

You’ve heard it. “Lose 30 pounds in 30 days!” “Eat as much as you want and still lose weight!” With so many products and weight-loss theories out there, it’s easy to get confused. This information may help clear up confusion about weight loss, nutrition and physical exercise. The Surgical Specialists of Louisiana have two licensed dietitians who are available to answer your questions on following a healthy eating plan and losing weight safely. Contact us today to learn more.

On March 26, 2010, a resolution was unanimously passed in the Senate to designate September 2010 as “National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month”, bringing national attention to a growing epidemic among youth in the United States. The resolution requests that the president issue a proclamation calling on the federal government, states, tribes and localities to observe September with programs that promote healthy eating and physical activity. Activities planned in September are important steps to improving kids’ wellness and educating families on how to live healthier.

In this tough economy, it’s important to make sure we don’t forgo healthy habits for cheaper, less nutritious foods. In this article, printed with the permission of the Obesity Action Coalition, Pam Helmlinger discusses how to manage your waistline without breaking the bank.

Your Weight Matters is a National web-based awareness campaign proudly produced and presented by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC). The goal of the campaign is to get the public talking about weight as it relates to their health and to challenge each and every American to talk to their doctor about their weight.

Knowing what’s in the food you eat is just as important, if not more important, that eating well. Weight loss success is extremely dependent on monitoring food content and ingredients, such as various types of sugar alcohols. Make sure you know what you are putting into your body by reading food labels. The following article, written by Kate H. Roundtree, LDN, RD will help you better understand one mystifying nutritional element: sugar alcohols. Kate works with the Surgical Specialists of Louisiana at their Lafayette office.

There has been a lot of controversy lately regarding soda, sugary drinks and their link to obesity. Some lawmakers have even proposed extra taxes on these beverages to help curb the problem. In this article, printed with permission of the Obesity Action Coalition, Dr. Rodrick D. McKinlay discusses the role liquid calories play in obesity among children.

Are you taking the time to learn what exactly is in the food you eat? Last week the Surgical Specialists of Louisiana shared the first part of a feature article by Jacqueline Jacques, ND that explained the types of items consumers should look for in a food label. This week are are pleased to share the conclusion of this article and reprinted with the permission of the Obesity Action Coalition.

The Surgical Specialists of Louisiana have always been concerned with obesity and the illnesses that affect people who are fighting the weight loss battle. Since 2001, SSL has offered weight loss surgery options and our patients have enjoyed long term success. So, who can better lead the fight against obesity? The Surgical Specialists are excited to announce our new program called MyWeightTM.