Delicious and healthy grilled chicken pesto salad.
Let’s be honest, salads can get boring after a while with the same ingredients and the same dressings, blah blah and etc. Why eat the same ol’ thing over and over? It’s time to spruce up your bowl and wake up your mouth with this flavor-bursting, healthy Chicken Pesto Salad recipe, so give it a try! Your taste buds will thank you!!!
Pesto Ingredients:
1 cup Fresh Basil
1 cup Red Wine Vinegar
1/3 cup Olive Oil
1 tsp Liquid (or Powdered) Sweetener
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Dried Oregano
¼ tsp Ground Black Pepper
3 Garlic Cloves (peeled)
Salad Ingredients:
2 cups Favorite Greens
½ cup Grilled Chicken (cut in cubes or strips)
¼ cup Red Onion (cut into thin strips)
½ cup Bell Pepper (cut into thin strips)
¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
¼ cup Toasted Nuts (your preference)
Optional Ingredients:
Cherry Tomatoes
Cucumber (sliced or quartered)
Croutons
Directions:
Combine pesto dressing ingredients in a blender and blend well until the pesto is creamy.
Prepare your salad in a large bowl with any of the ingredients of your liking.
Pour the pesto dressing over salad and toss well.
**Note** This recipe makes enough for one large salad (or 2 smaller salads if you’ve had weight loss surgery), so adjust the recipe according to your needs.
Enjoy!
If you would like more information about affordable weight loss surgery, please call us at 1-800-215-6497 or visit www.beliteweight.com.
Jentry is an inspiration! Her struggles over the years are some that many can relate to. Since having her weight loss surgery in June 2020, several of her friends, family, and acquaintances have eagerly followed in her path. We are sure that when Jentry took this sole journey by herself, she never thought of the impact that she would have on the lives of so many. She created this ripple effect and now, her loved ones are on their way to a healthier lifestyle, directly because of her.
Here is Jentry’s story:
I have struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember. I have PCOS and can gain weight just by looking at food. I have been a chronic Yo-Yo dieter. I have done everything from HCG, Whole 30, long duration liquid cleanses, to starving myself.
I was a collegiate athlete, and when the strict regimen of exercise was no longer placed upon me, I could not manage my weight any longer. I have had very close friends of mine have weight loss surgery and seeing how their success has turned into long term success, I realized that is what I have been looking for.
So, I decided to schedule my surgery. I chose BeLiteWeight because of their surgical facilities and their American certified doctor. I cannot say enough about this process. Surgery was great. I felt very cared for by my surgeon. The nursing staff is also very kind and attentive.
The recovery was not hard at all. The worst part was just muscle soreness from the scopes and incisions. This is only a tool to help with weight loss, it is not only the answer. This tool has given me the confidence to be able to exercise, eat healthier and with better portion sizes.
I have been forever changed. My confidence has skyrocketed, and my motivation to be healthier has increased leaps and bounds!
I have lost 90 pounds and hope to now build lean muscle.
Thank you BeLiteWeight!
You’re welcome Jentry!
We are so proud of you, Jentry, for your motivation, determination, and for all the hard work you’ve put into yourself. You look GREAT and your confidence radiates through your smile! Thank you for sharing your story and your photos with us! Way to go!
You are definitely an inspiration to us, as well as to anyone reading this. Keep those ripples coming! We greatly appreciate it!
If you would like more information about affordable weight loss surgery, please call us at 1-800-215-6497 or visit www.beliteweight.com.
Hypertension (also known as high blood pressure), though very common, has now become one of the leading health concerns. Elevated blood pressure not only means that the pressure against the blood vessels is raised but it also signals certain cardiovascular and renal impairments, cognitive impairments, and even premature death.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension in layman’s language means a condition of body when the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the blood vessels is increased or elevated. This force largely depends on the quantity of blood pumped by the heart into the blood vessels and the resistance of the blood vessels to handle this cardiac output.
Causes of Hypertension
High blood pressure gradually develops over the years. There are multiple factors that may increase the risk of developing hypertension such as lack of exercise, rich diet, alcohol, stress, aging, obesity, genetics, sedentary lifestyle and pregnancy.
Symptoms of Hypertension
Hypertension is usually asymptomatic; however, it still does the damage silently. The only way to identify it is through regular check-ups and screening by your healthcare provider. Symptomatic hypertension has general symptoms like headaches, vertigo, fainting episodes, and buzzing in the ear.
Resolution of Hypertension
The potential resolutions for hypertension include:
Lifestyle changes
Salt restriction in diet
Moderate alcohol consumption
Reduction of weight and weight management
Regular physical activity
Medication
Resolution of Hypertension through Bariatric Surgery
Hypertension being the most prevalent cause of stroke and kidney failure is almost always accompanied by obesity, diabetes, kidney disease or many other co-existing problems. Obesity is associated with several comorbidities including type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, sleep apnea, pulmonary dysfunction, ischemic stroke, knee osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis etc. It is also well documented that hypertension has a direct correlation with obesity, especially abdominal obesity.
One of the long-term resolutions as suggested worldwide is reduction in weight and weight management. It is also evident that the weight loss and weight maintenance as a result of bariatric surgery is unmatched and incomparable to any other form or mode of weight loss, such as diet and exercise alone.
Research shows that patients who underwent weight loss surgery such as, Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve, or Duodenal Switch reported improvements in hypertension as well as other weight related health conditions.
Data further shows that bariatric surgery is associated with a high rate of Hypertension remission.
If you suffer from Hypertension or other weight related health conditions and would like information on having an affordable weight loss surgery of your own, please call 1-800-215-6497 or visit www.beliteweight.com.
Diabetes is a major health concern. Being diagnosed with diabetes can be very frightening and overwhelming. The reality of having to completely change your diet, be accountable for everything that you put in your mouth, take medications and insulin without fail is very important to the management and control of diabetes. Weight loss surgery is an effective tool against the devastating disease of diabetes.
Diabetes and Health
Diabetes has TRIPLED since 2010 and according to the CDC, 1 in about 10 Americans have diabetes. That’s an alarming rate, especially for the 7th leading cause of death in America [2017 CDC Report]. Heart disease is #1. Developing either of these health conditions greatly increases by being overweight.
An estimated 50% of all Americans will be obese by 2025, according to some studies. Not all types of diabetes are preventable (Type 1) but spikes in blood sugar can be managed somewhat by diet. However, developing healthy lifestyle choices, becoming more active and losing excess weight can help treat and even prevent other types of diabetes (pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes), as well as heart disease.
If you are overweight, whether 20 pounds or 200 pounds, the Mayo Clinic states that losing even 7% of your body weight can help reduce your risk of diabetes. For a 200 pound person, that is “only” 14 pounds. But, like most of us, trying to lose even that 14 pounds on our own is a big struggle. We get frustrated with the slow progress, lose motivation and end up gaining weight instead.
Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery on Diabetes
Weight loss surgery is an excellent option if you’ve exhausted your efforts to lose weight on your own. However, it is recommended that you still eat healthy and exercise. With decreased appetite and help from your weight loss surgery, you can achieve long-term weight loss. That can help you control and/or place your diabetes into permanent remission.
The amount of weight you lose depends on a few factors, like which type of surgery you choose, your own individual efforts for lifestyle change and exercise, and some pre-existing conditions. It may be possible to lose 80% (or more) of your excess weight within 1-2 years.
Many of our patients have told us that their diabetes is in remission after having surgery. They no longer need any medication or insulin, sometimes even within just a few weeks of surgery. Some also tell us that their sleep apnea is better and they no longer need their C-PAP machine at night.
There are many health benefits when you lose weight. Who wants to live the rest of their life in pain? Unable to stand or walk or play with their kids? Battle diabetes, heart disease and other medical issues along with the side effects of what comes with those diseases? Sounds miserable to me!
Is Weight Loss Surgery the Correct Answer for Your Diabetes?
If you feel that weight loss surgery might be a good option for you be sure to contact us and we can provide you with the information to make the best decision. You can re-establish the quality of your life. You can increase your energy, have a better self-esteem, a more positive outlook, and less health concerns. At least once a year be sure your doctor checks your A1C levels for diabetes.
Early diagnosis can save your life! You can achieve permanent remission for certain types of diabetes after having weight loss surgery. Don’t fall victim to the notion that there is nothing you can do…YOU are your own cure and you are worth the effort it takes to live a healthier, diabetes-free life.
For more information about how weight loss surgery can improve your health, please contact BeLiteWeight at (800) 215-6497 or visit our website at: www.beliteweight.com.
With summer coming to an end, we wanted to share one last bright and sunny recipe with you, one you will want to make ANY time of the year! This Keto Lemon Cake recipe is easy and is always a hit at any get-together, picnic, or just to have at home. Once you taste how bright and lemon-y it is, you’ll want to be sure to make TWO next time! Plus, it’s low-carb and Keto-friendly, so you don’t have to feel guilty about eating it. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Cake Ingredients:
2 cups Almond Flour
¼ cup Coconut Flour
¼ cup Stevia
½ cup Lemon Juice
½ cup Ghee or Butter (softened)
4 Large Eggs
1 TBSP Vanilla Extract
2 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Baking Soda
2 TBSP Lemon Zest
Glaze/Frosting Ingredients:
½ cup powdered Erythritol
1 TBSP Butter (softened – room temp)
1 tsp Lemon Extract
2 tsp Water **
Preheat oven to 350* Mix all cake ingredients in a large bowl to form a batter. Lightly spray or grease a (9” x 5”) loaf pan. Pour batter into pan.
Bake 350 degrees for about 60 mins. The cake will rise as it bakes and the top should turn a golden brown color. When the cake is done baking, let cool completely before removing it from the pan.
Lemon Glaze/Frosting (optional topping): Mix all glaze ingredients together until smooth – set aside.
If you prefer a more glaze-like consistency, spread topping over cake while still warm (not hot) **can add more water 1 tsp at a time for desired thickness.
If you a prefer a more frosting-like (thicker) consistency, spread topping over cake once it’s cooled.
Slice it up and ENJOY!
If you would like more information about weight loss surgery please call us at 1-800-215-6497.
Edward and Susanly are long-term patients who have graciously sent us many referrals over the years. Both have struggled with joint issues but do their best to be as active as possible.
Edward has lost well over 200 pounds, tremendously reducing his A1-C and has excellent blood pressure.
Susanly also has maintained about 65 pounds weight loss, despite nagging hip and knee trouble. We appreciate the long term support and admire their maintenance and the efforts behind them.
We wish Edward all the best, as he recently retired this year after working in the mining field for the last 42 years!
For more of their story and other patient’s before and after photos please CLICK HERE
If you would like more information about weight loss surgery please call us at 1-800-215-6497.
Processed foods are high in the hierarchy of forbidden temptations. We know that the nutritional value of such products is lower than that of food that is not preserved, cooked, frozen, dried, ground, or salted and sweetened. But not all processed foods are unhealthy and should be avoided. The trick is to choose the right ones that, ironically, may turn out to be a very good source of valuable ingredients for you.
You need to know that produce loses important nutritional value a few hours after picking. This is because life processes are going on in them all the time. Lowering the temperature below 0 °C slows down these processes threefold. So frozen fruits are undoubtedly better than those stored at room temperature.
Other Good Processed Sources
Preserved/ canned fish. These canned wonders are the perfect portable sources of protein, omega-3, acids and calcium.
Peanut butter – Actually we recommend almond butter more. Ground nuts have their own benefits. Almonds are full of magnesium and vitamin B2, and peanuts are the perfect post-workout snack thanks to their high protein. IMPORTANT (Avoid peanut butter containing palm oil and sugar)
Oatmeal – Rich of vitamins and minerals
Yogurt. – A great way to transport protein, vitamin B12, calcium, and probiotics through your body.
Even when eating healthy food most of the time, it is good to allow yourself room for a few processed foods that can be really beneficial. Research shows that planning and allowing minor deviations from your diet can help you stay motivated to achieve your goals.
This short and informative video shows you how smooth, clean, and easy the patient admission process for our weight loss surgery patients at Hospital Angels, Juarez. Our BeLiteWeight patients and their guest are greeted at the airport and stay in the hospital the entire duration off their trip! It is so easy it is almost a vacation!
It is with great pleasure that BeLiteWeight is able to share Jennifer’s incredible journey! She is truly an inspiration, and we are so proud of her amazing progress!
For me, the decision to have weight loss surgery came when I was on vacation with my family and I couldn’t walk without getting winded or get around to see the attractions. I had to sit on a bench or in the car and wait for the family to finish having fun. It was a miserable trip and I knew then something had to change. Once I returned home I started looking into weight loss surgery. I knew I couldn’t have the surgery in the United States as my insurance had many hoops and I would still have to pay an enormous amount of money even with a deductible. I did my research on several companies in Mexico and decided on Belite Weight. I am beyond pleased with my decision!! This was absolutely the BEST decision of my life. I took my health back. I chose to have the surgery in Juarez, MX. My mom traveled with me and we were treated exceptionally well from the time we were picked up until they took us back to the airport. There wasn’t much of a language barrier and everyone was so helpful and nice. The staff made sure my mom and I were comfortable and taken care of and the hospital was very clean and nice. I owe everything to Dr. Rodriguez and his staff!! This has been a journey and I have learned so much through it.
I have lost 200 pounds in a year!! My body has gone through many positive changes and I have become a better ME!! I am so happy and I get complimented on my smile often. I can do things with my daughter that I haven’t ever been able to do such as ride amusement park rides or play basketball with her. I enjoy getting out and exercising and being in nature. I can even do simple everyday tasks around the house without being out of breath. I can live my life!!
This has been the BEST decision I have ever made and I wish I would have done this sooner!! If you’re on the fence wondering if you should take the leap. I encourage you to do it!! Take your health and life back!!
Thank you
Jennifer W
Thank you for sharing your wonderful success Jennifer! Your story is truly encouraging and we are so greatful to hear how happy you are with your decision!
For more information on Gastric Sleeve and other weight loss surgical questions, please call BeLiteWeight today!
The end of year holidays can present a special challenge for anyone who is trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Celebrating most often involves gatherings that are centered on indulgent food, making it easy to fall back into bad habits when there are so many temptations to give into. Here are some tips on how to avoid giving into all of the holiday decadence:
Don't skip meals. It can be easy to run out of the house without eating when you're trying to balance a busy work schedule with holiday shopping and other activities. When you get hungry, you're more likely to eat whatever is convenient, especially after smelling the hot Cinnabon at the mall food court. Always try to bring a light, healthy snack like a piece of fruit with you so that your hunger doesn't lead you to make unhealthier food choices.
Try to avoid from treats at work. At this time of year, it seems like everyone wants to bring their delicious baked goods into the office. Again, keeping healthy snacks close at hand and staving off hunger can help alleviate the temptation to eat all the things, but it's also OK to indulge in moderation, especially if you are living a more active lifestyle and exercising consistently.
Beware of drinking too much alcohol. It can be common to include lots of wine and cocktails at holiday gatherings and those drinks are usually packed with sugar. Alcohol can also make you want to eat more as well, and might also inhibit your ability to make healthy eating choices. It can also affect your sleep patterns and can cause insomnia.
Eat before attending holiday parties, so that you are not as hungry and less likely to over-indulge. Pick things high in protein and fiber, as well as healthy fats like avocado so that you will feel full and less likely to take that second helping. Take your time to eat and chew very slowly.
Don’t throw in the towel if you give into your temptations. It can be easy to tell yourself that it would be easier to restart your diet after the holidays, but when that time comes, you will be disappointed at all of the progress that you have lost. It's easier to stay on track once you've overcome those few initial hurdles of moderating enticing holiday treats.
Above all have fun, and don't let this busy time become too overwhelming. Get lots of sleep and take it one day at a time. It's possible to enjoy the holidays and stay healthy too.
