Author: Holland Doran

Three Fridge Items to Toss Out for a Healthy Diet

Posted on by Holland Doran

Beginning a healthy diet starts with one of the most essential places in your home – the fridge. Getting rid of the not so healthy products in your fridge can help put you in the right mindset and reduce temptation so you are set up for success.

Courtney, dietitian at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital, shares items that she suggests bariatric patients, those wanting to lose weight or anyone eating a healthy diet, should toss out.

Liquid Calories

Courtney SutterfieldRemove sugary drinks like soda and juices. Seemingly harmless, these sugary drinks can stop weight loss progress and even make you gain pounds. One can of soda has around 39 grams of sugar, 39 grams of carbs and 150 calories. This means that drinking one soda a day could lead to a pound of weight gain every 13 days.

Unfortunately, juices are in the same category as soda. Although marketed as healthy, they are packed with sugar, calories and carbs that can stall weight loss and can cause insulin resistance, which can lead to conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

If you’re looking for a healthy way to add flavor to your drinks, Courtney suggests adding lemons and limes to your bottled water.

High Carb Condiments

Condiments are sneaky. Items like BBQ sauce, ketchup and salad dressings are tasty for a reason – they contain sugar and preservatives, which can increase body fat and put a kink in your healthy diet. And no one eats only one serving of these condiments. Some BBQ sauces contain 7 grams of sugar and carbs per tablespoon.

If you can’t live without condiments, Courtney suggests opting for sugar free ketchup, BBQ sauce, steak sauce, marinades and dipping sauces. Her favorite is G Hughes BBQ sauce, which contains only 10 calories and no carbs or sugar per 2 tablespoons.

Freezer Foods

Premade, frozen meals are quick, easy and may be marketed as healthy, but unfortunately, they are quick and easy because they are packed with sugars, carbs and preservatives.

If you want convenience, replace frozen meals with frozen vegetables, which retain nutrients, vitamins and minerals, are low-cost and can reduce food waste.

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If you’re looking for a safe and effective solution to weight loss and weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and more, our team is ready to chat about your bariatric surgery options. Get started at bmi.arheart.com.

5 Tips to Protect Your Heart in the Cold

Posted on by Holland Doran

Dr. Mahesh BavineniResearch shows that 30 percent of heart attacks occur during the cold winter months, and those with heart conditions are particularly susceptible to cardiac events. Why would cold weather affect your heart?

Dr. Mahesh Bavineni, general cardiologist, explains that temperatures below 30 degrees causes blood vessels in your skin, toes and fingers to constrict to avoid losing heat.

“This causes a lot of burden on the heart’s pumping system, so your heart must pump faster, harder to keep you warm. People who have blockages in the heart or are at risk for heart problems are more prone to heart attacks.”

He shares five tips to protect your heart in cold temperatures.

Avoid long exposure to the cold.

If you must go outside, don’t stay long and make sure you’re well-insulated. “If you know you’re going to be in the cold dress up in water-resistant layers: coat, scarf, hat and gloves,” Dr. Bavineni says.

Limit strenuous exercise.

Shoveling snow or engaging in strenuous activities outside can put extra strain on your heart. “You don’t need to shovel snow if you have heart conditions,” Dr. Bavineni says. “Ask your neighbor or phone a friend for help.”

Watch over-eating and alcohol.

It’s easy to indulge in food and alcohol in the winter months, especially if you struggle with seasonal affective disorder or “winter blues.” Avoid overconsumption of fatty, rich foods and alcohol, which puts even more strain on your heart.

Stick to a heart healthy diet.

Eating for heart health doesn’t end in the summer. Eat your veggies, fruits, lean proteins and whole grains during the winter to support your cardiovascular system all year.

Listen to your body.

If you’re having symptoms, go to the ER and talk with your doctor, Dr. Bavineni stresses. Before the winter hits, make sure you know the signs of a heart attack.

Sudden cardiac arrest can occur anywhere, anytime to anyone, often without warning. Take your heart health in your own hands and learn your cardiovascular for cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke risk before it’s too late. Discover our wide range of cardiac care services or ask your primary care provider for a referral today.

Dr. Bavineni talks with KATV about how cold weather affects the heart.

Courtney Goes from Wishing to Doing After Losing 120 Pounds with Weight loss Surgery

Posted on by Holland Doran

Struggling with an extra 120 pounds, Courtney chose gastric sleeve surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital to help reverse high blood pressure, improve mental health and create memories with his family. Read his story.

Going Downhill

I struggled for many years trying to lose weight. I would lose it with extreme dieting or diet clinics, then gain it back. I got to a point where I just couldn’t lose weight and life was definitely going downhill.

Activities like family vacations would depress me. I was always tired and would try to avoid walking long distances. I couldn’t enjoy the things with my kids that I wanted to. I was past the weight limit or couldn’t safely fasten the safety belts for a lot of attractions, so I would spend a lot of time watching and wishing.

In public I always felt like people were judging my size. Clothes shopping was the worst because I couldn’t find anything that fit properly.

Nothing to Lose

After trying everything that I could to lose and maintain weight loss and developing high blood pressure, my wife mentioned the gastric sleeve procedure. At that point I had nothing to lose from scheduling a consultation at BMI with Dr. J.D. Fuller.

Dr. Fuller was kind and respectful. He made sure I understood my options and had a clear understanding of what results I should expect. He asked me how I would like to lose 100 pounds in a year. I thought, yeah, right. By the time I walked out he had convinced me. I decided that I was tired of struggling with it and began working on the steps to get approved for gastric sleeve surgery, which I had in July 2021.

Feeling Respected

The BMI team was unlike anything I’ve experienced at a clinic or hospital. They are better than whatever you think great is — no exaggeration. Everyone smiles and treats you with respect and goes out of their way to help if any issues arise.

Dr. Fuller and Courtney

No More Sidelines

I’ve lost 120 pounds, and my life is constantly improving. My blood pressure and snoring has improved, I feel more comfortable, have more energy and endurance, and can truly enjoy life.

The most important thing is I can keep up with my family and do and enjoy activities that I couldn’t. I like lifting weights, but I’ve also been able to jog, kayak and I’m trying to get into hiking.

The only regret I have about the surgery is not getting it sooner. It’s definitely a life-changing event.

Courtney after weight loss

Finding Community

BMI’s support is awesome, especially in the patient support group. You might feel a certain type of way, and someone will post that they went through the same thing. It’s always good to talk with someone going through what you’ve been through.

None of this would have been possible without the support of Dr. Fuller, my family and friends, and the patient support group. It’s a daily grind but I’m still working.

Take the First Step

I absolutely recommend BMI when people ask me about surgery. Why? From the moment I walked into the clinic everyone I spoke with and had contact with was extremely respectful. I didn’t feel judged or pressured. Even after the surgery they will be there for any questions and provide resources.

I would tell people who are on the fence that if they have been trying to lose weight and nothing else has worked, why not at least get in for a consultation and see what the options are.

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The experts at BMI can help you shed the burden of weight-related conditions and find renewed energy and improved health. Start your journey at bmi.arheart.com.

Bariatric surgery: what are my options?

Aliyah Loses 125 Pounds, Overcomes PCOS After Life-Changing Gastric Bypass Surgery

Posted on by Holland Doran

Battling both excess weight and PCOS, Aliyah chose bariatric surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital to create a brighter, happier future for her family. Read her story.

Fed Up With the Fight

The main reason I wanted to lose weight was because it was affecting my life. I remember going to an amusement park with my family and having a hard time getting on a ride. I had lunch and tried to get on the same ride again with my sister and I couldn’t fit. I had to have that walk of shame off the ride, which was really hard.

I was also diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) when I was 18 and was told that I could possibly never have children. I fell into a deep depression and food became my coping mechanism.

Easy Choice

I did a lot of research on bariatric surgery and found that AHH had a brand new, state-of-the-art hospital with the best doctors in the state. It wasn’t a hard choice; I knew that this is where I wanted to go.

My first step was doing an online seminar, which wasn’t hard. I made a consultation appointment where I met my dietitian and doctor. At that appointment we discussed my different options and what route I wanted to go, and ultimately, we decided on the gastric bypass.

Happy Tears

Since surgery, I have lost about 125 pounds and my PCOS symptoms are non-existent. My doctor said I would have no problems at all having children. I kid you not, I cried happy tears. I was just so happy to hear that because I want to have a family.

After losing around 125 pounds, my quality of life back and I can do things I was not able to before. I would walk up a flight of stairs and I would be out of breath. Now I’m walking six to seven miles every day.

Before I couldn’t even think about furthering my education. Now that I have my health under control, I’m able to work full-time and go to school, which I never thought I would be able to accomplish.

I have learned how to take care of my body & I’ve learned to love myself in my own skin.

All Worth It

It was the best decision I could have ever made for myself and my family. The first month or so was hard, but now I know without a doubt that it was all worth it. I would 100 percent do it all again because I know I’m going to live a longer, happier life.

I want to thank the doctors and staff at BMI because they went above and beyond through my entire process. I genuinely felt how much they care about their patients. You guys are awesome!

To someone considering surgery, I would tell them 100 percent to do it.

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BMI strives to make permanent weight loss a reality through personalized attention and innovative surgical options. From insurance approvals to emotional and physical wellness, we are here for you every step of the way. Start your journey by watching our quick and easy informational seminar.

Learn the 12 questions you should ask your doctor before weight loss surgery.

Get Festive with a Low-Calorie Cranberry Lime Mocktail

Posted on by Holland Doran

If you’re seeking a festive bariatric friendly alternative to the traditional cocktail, look no further than the cranberry lime mocktail. It’s the perfect way to have your “fancy” drink without extra calories. Grab these three ingredients and get to shaking!

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup diet cranberry juice (Ocean Spray cran-cherry preferred)
  • Diet ginger beer*
  • Juice of 1 lime

Directions:

  1. Mix all ingredients together and stir well.
  2. Garnish with a lime wedge and rosemary. Serve in a copper mug.

*We suggest waiting three months post-surgery before trying carbonated beverages. If carbonation is tolerated, you may use a Canada Dry sugar-free drink packet instead of ginger beer.

This recipe is appropriate for liver shrinking and lifetime bariatric plans.

Nutrition per recipe:

  • Calories: 5-10
  • Carbs: 2g net
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g

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We believe food should taste good. That’s why our bariatric dieticians provide a wealth of delicious recipes for our patients, no matter the eating plan they’re on. Learn how you can start your journey to a new improved you at bmi.arheart.com.

Down 120 Pounds, Korey Feels 20 Years Younger, Hopeful for the Future

Posted on by Holland Doran

At more than 300 pounds, a stress test revealed that Korey may not have many quality years ahead of him. Gastric bypass surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital (AHH) changed that uncertainty to hope for the future. Read his story.

A Step to Save His Life

I was having chest pains, and my wife took me AHH where they performed a stress test, and I didn’t pass. My doctor said with the condition I was in, I didn’t have quality years ahead of me. I was 53 at the time, and he said I would be lucky to see 60. He referred me to BMI where I met Dr. J.J. Tucker.

During my first visit with Dr. Tucker, we hit it off really well. I felt like he understood me and the position I was in. I wanted to be a family man and have a life with my kids and grandchildren. Together, we made a plan and after speaking with my wife, I decided I would have the gastric bypass.

Before surgery, I had to prepare myself for a complete lifestyle change. Once you make those changes, it becomes every day and not so bad. You find out healthy food is good food. I still love food; I just eat smaller portions now.

On the Other Side

I started losing weight faster than I would have imagined and started feeling better than I ever thought I could. I tell my friends that before I was 53 but felt like I was going on about 85. Now at 54 and 180 pounds, I feel like I’m 30 again.

Prior to surgery I went through some mental problems, and I think a lot of that was associated with the way I felt. I was facing a life of difficulty getting up and making it through the day like a person should be able to. Now that I’ve gone through the gastric bypass, every day I wake up ready to go. I’m a much happier person and I feel like my life is such more fulfilling.

As a grandfather, my new granddaughter is one of the reasons I had my bypass. I need to be around for a long time for this beautiful little girl. My heart is filled with love!

Unmatched Support

My dietitian, Courtney, has become the angel that I needed. She kindly listens, understands and leads me in the best direction. She’s not only my nutritionist, she’s also my friend.

The private patient support group is very encouraging. I respond to fellow members questions and photos, because I remember how much that support meant to me. When I first started, I wanted what other patients had. Now, people will tell me that I’m an inspiration to them – it’s all well worth it.

Grateful

Thank you so much to Dr. Tucker, Courtney, Jenny, Maleah, Nick and all the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff who are there for me. You have added so many wonderful years to my life and most of all truly gave me a new lease on life. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

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Our nationally recognized team of surgeons, dietitians, nurses and therapists are here to guide you to a longer, healthier, more fulfilling life through bariatric surgery. Go to bmi.arheart.com for surgery qualifications, options, process, and to watch our free online on-demand seminar.

Read 11 tips to avoid weight regain after weight loss surgery.

Bariatric Friendly Pumpkin Spoonbread Recipe

Posted on by Holland Doran

If you’re looking for a little taste of fall this season, add this pumpkin spoonbread recipe to your list. Not only delicious, it’s also suitable for the bariatric eating plan or anyone wanting to cut carbs. It’s also an easy make-ahead recipe for Thanksgiving!

Try it today. You and your guests will thank us!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup canola oil
  • 2 cups Splenda
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 cups solid-pack pumpkin (pumpkin puree with no additives)
  • ¾ cup coconut flour
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 tsp. baking soda
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

Directions:

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oil, Splenda, eggs, vanilla and pumpkin, then set aside.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.
  3. Add all the web ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Be cautious of overmixing.
  4. Grease and flour a 6×9 pan baking dish. Pour the batter into the dish.
  5. Bake at 325 degrees for 45-50 minutes or until you can insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf and it comes out clean.
  6. Allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to fully cool.

Servings: Approximately 18

Serving size: ¼ cup

Nutrition per serving:

  • Calories: 150
  • Carbs: 2.2g net
  • Fat: 14g
  • Protein: 2g

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Providing tasty, bariatric friendly recipes is one of the many ways we support patients in their new bariatric lifestyle at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital. Learn why hundreds of people choose our program to lose weight and change their lives at bmi.arheart.com.

3 Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes

Posted on by Holland Doran

Even though many prepackaged dressings are off-limits on the bariatric eating plan or for a healthy diet, salad dressings can still be flavorful, healthy and easy to make. In just a few steps, you can make your own Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital dietitian-approved dressing.

Try one of these salad dressing recipes:

Court’s Simple Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup canola oil
  • 1 cup red or white wine vinegar
  • About 1 cup of Splenda
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon McCormick Mediterranean spiced sea salt* or you can do Kosher salt, fresh black pepper, garlic, etc.

Directions:

  1. Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Transfer to a glass bottle with a rubber stopper to store in the fridge.

Smoked Jalapeno Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

  • 4 teaspoons Splenda
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ cup red wine vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground chipotle chili
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil

Directions:

  1. Combine all the ingredients except the oil in a small saucepan and place over medium heat.
  2. When the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour the dressing into a bowl. Drizzle the oil into the dressing in a thin stream while whisking quickly.
  4. Pour into a covered container and chill until cold.

Asian Dressing

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup canola oil
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoons minced ginger (can use less if desired)
  • 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup Splenda
  • Few dashes of light soy sauce
  • Splash of sesame oil

Directions:

  1. Add ingredients in a medium sized bowl, whisk to combine.

Estimated Nutrition info per Tablespoon: 60 calories and 7 grams fat

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Our team of cardiovascular experts and weight loss doctors are ready to help patients put their health goals in reach. For patients who don’t see success with medicine and other treatments, we offer a second chance. Learn more about our unique approach to weight loss, and visit our From the Heart blog for more recipes and resources.

Lara Begins Golden Years with Energy, Optimism After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Posted on by Holland Doran

Lara wanted to start her golden years healthy and energetic, but extra weight, high blood pressure and arthritis were holding her back. She found a new lease on life with weight loss surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute. Read her story.

A Lifelong Struggle

I’ve struggled with my weight my whole life. My mother wrote “too pudgy” in my baby book when I was four, and I was on my first diet at eight years old. Twice in my adult life, I’ve lost more than 100 pounds but I always gained it back. My highest weight was 324 pounds.

I had considered bariatric surgery in my 40s, but the timing wasn’t right for my family. In my 50s, my health began to deteriorate, and daily tasks became more difficult. I got tired easily, and I was worried all the time about fitting in chairs, booths, airplane seats and bathroom stalls. I would get winded going up and down stairs, and I was never able to find clothes that fit me. I was on high blood pressure medication and had degenerative arthritis in my knees and back.

Taking Action

I knew life as a senior would be difficult, and I wanted to enjoy my golden years and not be a burden to my daughters. I decided it was time for me to take action.

I contacted the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute in March 2021, and I underwent gastric bypass in July 2021 with Dr. J.D. Fuller, bariatric and general surgeon.

Recovery and Support

The stay at Encore Medical Center was amazing. It was awesome having the BMI team in the same building and readily available. I had no complications, and the BMI team was very responsive to my emails and phone calls.

Everyone at BMI has been very responsive and supportive. From the first phone call to my last checkup, people are present and paying attention to your needs.

A New Lease on Life

After surgery, everything is better! I’ve lost more than 160 pounds, and I’m smaller than I was in junior high. I am off four medications, and my energy, sleep and flexibility are better. My degenerative arthritis in my knees and back is much less bothersome due to carrying less weight.

The biggest change since surgery is my improved energy level. Taking on tasks or chores are met with strength and determination. From raking leaves to scrubbing down cabinets, I can meet those challenges easily. I can even get down on my hands and knees and get up again! I can also cross my legs while sitting.

I now look forward to family trips and airplane rides because I don’t dread lagging behind my family because of my size or lack of energy.

I’m grateful to Dr. Fuller, Lauren, Courtney, Shanna and all the BMI staff for this amazing tool and this new lease on life for the second half of my life.

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The Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital strives to make permanent weight loss a reality through personalized attention and innovative surgical options. From insurance approvals to emotional and physical wellness, we are here for you every step of the way. Start your journey by finding a bariatric surgeon.

What are your bariatric surgery options?

BMI Friendly Pumpkin Spice Recipe

Posted on by Holland Doran

This fall, don’t just carve your pumpkins, savor them! These nutrient powerhouses are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, can boost eyesight and are a great addition to the bariatric eating plan.

Reap the rewards of this tasty vegetable with this pumpkin spice recipe that’s perfect for your protein shakes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can Libby’s pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ¾ cup Splenda
  • 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice to taste
  • Pinch of kosher salt

Directions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat.
  2. Simmer ingredients for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Place it in a storage container and refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. Add ¼ cup to your favorite protein shake along with ice. Blend until smooth.

Recipe yields 4 servings.

Nutrition per ¼ cup:

  • Calories: 25
  • Carbs: 5g
  • Fiber: 1.5g

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We believe food should be healthy and taste good. That’s why our bariatric dieticians provide a wealth of delicious recipes for our patients, no matter the eating plan they’re on. Learn how you can start your weight loss journey, meet our bariatric surgeons and explore our financing options at bmi.arheart.com.

Read how Gary exchanged yo-yo dieting for running shoes after gastric sleeve surgery.