Where's the Beef?! Not Here with Our Cajun Roasted Cauliflower "Steaks"

It doesn't have to be a Meatless Monday to fix up a fun veggie meal...

Here's a scrumptious low-calorie dish from our InShapeMD Fayetteville wellness team that's both scrumptious and hCG-friendly!

Cajun Roasted Cauliflower "Steaks"

Here's what you'll need:

- 1 large head of cauliflower cut into 3 1/2″ “steaks” (the remaining cauliflower kept for another use)

Per steak:

- 2 tsp oil

- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

- 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.  Prepare the cauliflower “steaks” by turning the head of cauliflower over so that the stem is facing up.  Make two parallel cuts on either side of the stem, then cut the remaining middle piece into as many “steaks” as possible (no thinner than 1/2″).  Arrange as many “steaks” as needed on a baking sheet.  The remaining cauliflower can be chopped and stored in the fridge for another meal, or it can added to the same pan as the “steaks” after they have already cooked for 10 minutes.  The “steaks” can also be stored in a sealed plastic bag in the fridge until ready to use.

Drizzle the prepared cauliflower “steaks” with 2 tsp oil for each steak, and then sprinkle with 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning and 1/8 tsp of sea salt.  Place in the oven and roast for 20 minutes.  Remove from the oven and gently flip over.  Sprinkle the other side with the remaining 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning and 1/8 tsp of sea salt.  Return to the oven for 10 more minutes, or until golden on both sides and crispy and dark brown on the edges.  Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

To roast cauliflower florets instead of “steaks”, cut up into bite sized pieces, drizzle with 2-3 tbsp oil and sprinkle generously with Cajun seasoning(about 1 1/2 tbsp or more to taste and depending on the size of the cauliflower) and salt (about 1/2 tbsp or 1 1/2 tsp) and roast for 20 minutes, stirring and flipping once in the middle.

For more nutritional support or information about our medical weight loss programs contact InShapeMD Fayetteville for a FREE consultation TODAY at: (678)817-0181.

Here's to beefin' up hCG -friendly meals in the kitchen!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

From To-Dos to "I Do!" InShapeMD Fayetteville 's 4 Things to Accomplish Before Your Wedding

Wedding season is here (hooray!) which means a ton of you brides-to-be out there are busy doing a lot of planning, planning and MORE planning... 

Here are 4 important projects our InShapeMD Fayetteville wellness team suggests you include on your list of to-dos (as if you haven't already)!

1. Reserve a spot for your ceremony.
The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. today is a whopping $20,000 (yikes!)... While planning for YOUR big day, however, don’t let that number scare you. There are plenty of creative, budget-friendly wedding ideas out there, including where and when you will be tying the knot. For example, choosing not to say "I do" on a traditional Saturday can save you up to 50%. Instead, have your nuptial celebration at the same place, but on a Friday or Sunday. Since these venues don’t typically have weddings on those days, they'd be more apt to accommodate you at a discounted rate!

2. Make sure you have a photographer.

Having pictures taken of "the happiest day of your life" is generally the biggest part of collecting & sharing wedding memories (because even one picture alone can instantly take you back to that moment). Since exceptional wedding photographers are usually booked out a year in advance, be sure you start researching early. Oh and be sure to preview samples from each photographer's portfolio and keep a folder of their prices to compare against their competition. This will help you maintain your planned budget, as well as a peace of mind and the assurance of having high-quality (and Facebook-profile worthy) pictures after the ceremony!

3. Organize your reception.

No matter what size your wedding reception will be, it will still probably require the same amount of tedious planning... and that responsibility can be horribly daunting for attempting to make it flawless. Organizing flowers, wedding favors, food & drinks, entertainment, not to mention the seating charts are among the myriad of details you have to consider. There's also: the wedding attire, a caterer, deciding whether to have alcohol at the reception, cutting back on the wedding guest list, organizing your wedding timeline, and of course the most important part of all... gathering the expenses to fill all these needs! With that being said, make sure you have plenty of time to save or raise money for this extra-special occasion so you can have everything you want minus the stress of finding funds at the last minute!


4. Get into the best shape of your life.
Looking absolutely perfect on your wedding day means appearing radiant, feeling relaxed, being ready to start a brand new existence with your soulmate, and showing off how fabulously fit you are, of course! Your hair, nails, makeup, dress (and how you look in that dress) are all part of being the bride you always dreamed of on your special day. 

An easy way get into the best shape of your life is to enroll in a medically supervised weight loss program from InShapeMD Fayetteville several weeks before your wedding day. With our prescription hCG programs and our appetite-suppressing supplements, our wellness team can help you look undeniably perfect in that beautiful dress of yours! 

The wait for the wedding can be stressful, but the weight doesn't have to be... Contact us TODAY at: (678)817-0181 and let the countdown to the perfect YOU begin!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Go NUTS with InShapeMD Fayetteville 's 6 Super Snack Ideas (Containing 100 Calories or Less)!

At InShapeMD Fayetteville we want YOU to be more aware of what you're consuming. Not only can it contribute to better weight loss results, it can help you achieve ultimate health for the long-term. 

So if you're feeling a bit hungry but you're still watching your waistline (aren't we always?!)... Here are 6 snack suggestions to try for only 100 calories or LESS!

1. A ½ Cup of Slow-Churned Ice Cream  
Surprise! Today, Ice cream will be on the top of our list. It's low-calorie and the key is to look for slow-churned or doubled-churned varieties, a process that reduces fat and calories while still retaining its creamy texture.

2. 6 Cups of Microwave Popcorn
This snack already has a very small calorie count, but some brands are even as low as 100 calories. So even if you're not veggin' out on the couch to watch a NetFlix movie, popcorn (the low-calorie kind, of course) can still be a wise snack option for you!

3. A Mini Quesadilla
You really don’t expect to see this as a recommended snack, but it can be a great choice. Try this recipe, by sprinkling an ounce of grated low fat cheddar cheese over a corn tortilla. Fold it in half, then microwave for 20 seconds. It’ll be a quick, easy, and healthy "mini meal" for you to enjoy!

4. Cottage Cheese & Cantaloupe 
Just grab a 1/2 cup of cottage cheese (which is a protein powerhouse by the way) and add chopped or sliced melon. With a small cantaloupe, the calories contained in this refreshing dish is just 100!

5. Three Crackers with Cheese
Choosing organic, whole grain crackers is the key to this delicious favorite. The crackers will provide you with fiber to help you feel fuller longer, and the cheese gives you the protein and calcium you may need for optimal weight control.

6. Fourteen Almonds
When those munchies strike while you are on-the-go, here's a convenient way to nosh on something nutritious. Eat 14 almonds just to hit the 100 calorie mark. The best part is... You can take these protein-packed nuts with you anywhere... which means they're even a great snack to keep you company if you're ever stuck in traffic.

For more information about healthier living or to find out about our medical weight loss programs at InShapeMD Fayetteville contact us TODAY: (678)817-0181.

Here's to better eating choices, and an even better reflection you'll notice in your mirror!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

We Came, We SLAW, We Conquered: An InShapeMD Fayetteville hCG -Friendly Crunchy Slaw Recipe

Ingredients:

- 6 c. shredded cabbage

- ½ med. red onion

- 6 radishes, grated

- ¾ c. Rice vinegar

- ½ t. white or black pepper

- 1 t. celery salt

- 1-2 pkts. Splenda or other sugar substitute

Instructions:

- Place cabbage, onion, and radishes into a large mixing bowl. 

- Combine rice vinegar, spices, and Splenda. Mix well. 

- Pour over cabbage and toss well to coat. 

- Let sit 10-15 minutes or chill overnight; tossing again before serving.

Makes 4 servings of 1 ½ cups each

Calories: 36 per serving. Fat: 0g.

For more great nutritional tips or information about our InShapeMD Fayetteville medical weight loss products and services contact us us TODAY: (678)817-0181.

HEALTH-Bent on the Best Mother's Day Gift

Mothers’s Day is almost here... and there's nothing like giving Mom a present to brighten up her day with something that can also improve her health and well being, right?

With that in mind, here are 3 perfect Mother's Day gift ideas you can purchase from your wellness team at InShapeMD Fayetteville before this special occasion arrives:

1) Energy-Boosting B12 Shots
Cyanocobalamin (or Vitamin B12) has been found to be very important for growth, cell reproduction, blood formation and healthy protein/tissue synthesis in the body. Although Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that's naturally present naturally in meats, seafood and dairy products... it may not be quite enough to provide that extra "oomph" of an energy boost that many of us need to power through a hectic week. With Mom busy running around to take care of the entire family, a bundle of B12 shots could be the perfect "pick-me-up" present!

2) A 30-Day Supply of Green Coffee Bean ExtractAs you may already know, the craze for Green Coffee Bean Extract has been a huge hit among dieters everywhere... especially after it was called "the miracle pill" by Doctor Oz during a recent episode of his talk show. Oz says the compound in green coffee beans, called “chlorogenic acid," seems to have a beneficial effect on metabolism so it can BURN FAT FAST for just about anyone who wants to lose weight. There are even studies today that prove its positive effects on weight loss (ref: Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy, 2012). So if you've heard Mom mumbling lately about trying to drop a few pant sizes or tone up for summer vacation, a bottle of Green Coffee Bean Extract could help give her metabolism the calorie-crushing jolt she desires!

3) A Gift Certificate for Wellness Products/Services at InShapeMD Fayetteville
If your mother is one of those "hard to shop for" type of people, that's okay. You can always give her something that points her in the direction of good health-- like a gift certificate. Our vouchers can be used toward any wellness products or services of Mom's choice... from our medical weight loss solutions to even our hormone optimizing programs!

For those of you out there who are scrambling for last-minute Mother's Day presents... scramble no more. Stop in at InShapeMD Fayetteville TODAY or call us NOW to reserve your desired present for Mom: (678)817-0181.

After all you can't go wrong by giving the gift of wellness!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

InShapeMD Fayetteville : What Certain Weight Loss Tips & Unicorns Have in Common

At InShapeMD Fayetteville we're aware that there are several weight loss tips out there which can somewhat be compared to unicorns... as in, they're just myths, although many people still believe they're real.

With that being said here are 5 common statements we've recently heard regarding the dreaded process of slimming down, along a brief explanation as to whether each statement is simply a myth, or may hold some truth:

STATEMENT #1: Exercise must be strenuous and should be done at a certain level of intensity, for a certain amount of time in order to be of any help when trying to lose weight.

Myth. Many of us are aware that moderate to intense physical activity can be beneficial in weight management, but it doesn't have to be performed at a Navy Seals training pace to be effective. In fact, a three-mile walk burns about the same number of calories as a three-mile run... so why not opt for the workout routine that's more practical if shrinking your waistline is your number one goal?!

STATEMENT #2: Eating as much protein as possible at each meal in order to manage your weight is fine, because protein is good for you anyway.

Myth. While protein is important for good health and weight management, it can also lead to certain health problems when consumed in excess. Experts agree between 10%-35% of your total calories eaten daily should come from protein. Anything over that percentage could possibly be detrimental to your waistline-whittling attempts.

STATEMENT #3: You can lose belly fat by just doing sit-ups.

Myth. Many "newbie" gym members or workout novices aren't really aware of the ideal exercises which can help tighten their tummies, trim their thighs or strengthen their necks to wipe out that embarrassing double chin. Sure, doing the right strength training exercises can help you build muscle tone and ride your figure of flab, but doing 1,000 sit-ups a day will NOT result in the loss of belly fat. The kinds of food you eat, however, CAN (hence the popular saying, "Abs are made in the kitchen!).

STATEMENT #4: Since high-fat diets have been linked to heart disease and other health-related risks, it's best to totally eliminate fat from your diet.

Fact. One gram of fat contains more than twice the calories of one gram of carbohydrates or protein. Solution? Just say NO to fried foods and ignore those nagging temptations to hit up local fast food/drive-thru chains, simply because they're "just quicker and easier" than cooking a nutritious meal at home.

STATEMENT #5: It is actually possible to change your dietary habits in order to lose weight while still enjoying meals that are satisfying, tasty, as well as nutritious.

Fact. Subscribing to a medically-supervised weight loss regimen (such as our prescription hCG program at InShapeMD Fayetteville ) doesn't mean you have to forego great tasting meals. By learning how to make healthier lifestyle changes from our wellness team you can enjoy every bite of your food without loading up on all the extra calories, sodium or saturated fat!

At InShapeMD Fayetteville we want YOU to be more aware of what you're consuming. Not only can it contribute to better weight loss results, it can help you achieve ultimate health for the long-term. 

For more information about healthier living or to find out about our medical weight loss programs contact us TODAY at: (678)817-0181.

Here's to healthful eating choices, and that's a FACT!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Reap What You So-da: InShapeMD Fayetteville Dishes About Diet Drinks

You are hot and thirsty, and if you are like most Americans, the first drink you will reach for will be a carbonated beverage. 

If you are worried about your caloric intake however, you will likely pick a diet soda. 

For many years soft drink companies have spent billions of dollars convincing all of us that the diet soda is the healthier and lighter choice... and yet there are still so many of us who are struggling with weight gain. 

With the advertisements that are played out by a very in-shape model, however, who can blame us if diet soda seems like a dream come true? Many who have experienced this will say that diet sodas are “wolves in sheep's clothing,” fooling the population (mostly women) into thinking that they are doing something beneficial for their bodies when in reality, they are sabotaging their own best efforts of losing weight.

Sure, everyone knows by now that diet soda may not have all of the sugar or calories of a regular soda, but in place of those elements, there are several other health-draining chemicals, like for instance: caffeine, artificial sweeteners, sodium and phosphoric acid. Studies have shown that these elements are chemically venerable to the younger generations.

Many more recent studies about the goodness of diet sodas have been flying around lately, but the majority are actually setting you up to gain even more weight. Some experts are now even exploring the possibility that artificial sweeteners are responsible for confusing our taste buds and all those brain measures of satiety that are based upon what we eat.

Recent statistics on America’s Love for Soda (Sugar and Diet) from the Beverage Digest show the overall average sales of soda was 10.2 billion cases in 2005. That's about 828 eight-ounce servings for every man, woman and child in the US alone!

So if you really want to do something good for your body and your BMI (Body Mass Index), exchange that can of diet or sugar soda for a cool glass of filtered water-- no other drinks are close to it. You can even infuse it with some fresh fruit to add a little zing without the extra calories!

For more nutritional support or information about healthier choices this summer, contact InShapeMD Fayetteville for a FREE consultation TODAY at: (678)817-0181.

Here's to staying cool and staying healthy!

--The InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Life's a Beach with hCG-Friendly Shrimp Ceviche

Spring Break season is in full swing, which is a great reason to take a little break from your daily grind... but still adhere to your prescription hCG weight loss program.

With that being said our InShapeMD Fayetteville wellness team has a "beachy" AND hCG-friendly recipe for you to try this week: Shrimp Ceviche!

Here's what you need:-1 to 2lbs of shrimp, fresh or frozen, raw or cooked, peeled and deveined, tail on or off (hCG-friendly Ceviche only calls for 8 large shrimp for a total of 52 calories).

-2 large lemons, freshly squeezed about ¾ cup to 1 cup

-2 to 3 large limes, freshly squeezed

-1 tablespoon fresh garlic

-1 mild or medium pepper, finely chopped

-1 red onion finely chopped

-4 large tomatoes finely chopped

-2 cumbers peeled and diced into ½ inches

-Fresh cilantro chopped

-Fresh parsley, chopped

-Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for taste

Directions:
Thaw shrimp if frozen. If using raw shrimp, bring water to a boil and cooked the shrimp for 1-2 minutes, until it turns opaque white and reddish (overcooking can cause your shrimp to become rubbery). Once cooked, rinse shrimp under cold water. 

Combine juices from lemons and limes in a large bowl and add shrimp. Cover bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.

After half an hour add these ingredients to the shrimp & juices in your large bowl: Tabasco, garlic, onion and pepper. Lastly add in cilantro, parsley, tomatoes and cucumbers. Toss and mix evenly. Return to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to infuse into your shrimp.

When ready, serve yourself a bowl containing 8 large shrimp with the all the mix-ins, add a serving of Melba Toast (optional) & enjoy!

For more nutritional support or information about our medical weight loss programs contact InShapeMD for a FREE consultation TODAY at: (678)817-0181.

Here's to ensuring "life's a beach," even while you're on a diet!

--The InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Gumb-Oh! Seafood-in-a-Bowl That's hCG-Friendly AND Delicious

Gumbo is a dish that originated in southern Louisiana during the 18th century, but is now enjoyed by seafood lovers nationwide.

Its original recipe primarily consists of a strongly flavored stock, meat or shellfish, a thickener and seasoned vegetables (which can include okra, celery, bell peppers) and many other "Cajun cuisine" ingredients. Several spices and powders are also added to help give it that southern flair.

What we at InShapeMD Fayetteville have for you today... is a toned-down version of that wonderful dish that's still big on flavor as well as hCG-friendly! 

Here's what you need so you can indulge without going overboard:

-100 grams of seafood
We chose this combination-- 3.5 oz. whitefish (98 cal), 3.5 oz. shrimp (110 cal) & 3.5 oz. crab meat (60 cal).

-1 chopped garlic clove (2 cal)

-2 large chopped Roma tomatoes (66 cal)

-¼ teaspoon onion salt (0 cal)

-¼ teaspoon Creole seasoning (15 cal)

-dash of garlic powder (3 cal)

-dash of celery salt (2 cal)

-dash of cayenne pepper (3 cal)

-1-2 packets of organic Stevia (0 cal)

Preparation:
Sauté seafood with chopped garlic on high heat until browned. Add remaining ingredients, and simmer on low for at least 15 minutes. Cool it down a little, serve and enjoy!

For more information about healthy living or find out how we can help you reach your weight loss goals visit our InShapeMD Fayetteville web site  TODAY.

Here's to guilt-free gumbo!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Experts

M'Organic: Why Buying Organic Food is More Than Just Healthful Eating

When it comes to healthier living many people may themselves, "are organic foods worth buying?"

The answer is absolutely YES! Our InShapeMD Fayetteville wellness teams believes that consumers across the USA are likely to get the food that is safer and higher in quality when buying food and products that have been fully certified as “organic” by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or by the State Organic Certification Agencies.

 As agreed in principle, the only exception we could make was that some foods have been grown and sold locally with the use of sustainable agricultural practices, even if that food has been officially certified as organic by the USDA or any state agency.

When the USDA certifies a food as "organic" is it actually guaranteeing something about the food?

The answer again is absolutely YES. When the USDA certifies a food as organic, it is guaranteeing that the food was produced through the many approved methods designed to improve food quality and environmental conditions that are associated with food production. Also in this guarantee, the USDA forbids the use of sludge, irradiation, or genetic engineering in any certified organic foods.

At present, certified organic food is one of the few ways U.S. consumers have to guarantee the absence of these practices used in food production.

In addition, there are three important prohibitions that the USDA will disallow:

1. The use of most synthetic fertilizers and pesticides
2. The use of growth hormones
3. The use of antibiotics
4. The use of many synthetic additives

At InShapeMD Fayetteville we want YOU to be more aware of what you're consuming. Not only can it contribute to better weight loss results... it can help you achieve ultimate health for the long-term. 

For more information about healthier living or to find out about our medical weight loss programs contact us TODAY: (678)817-0181.

Here's to healthful eating choices, especially when you choose organic!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Tailored InShapeMD Programs for Faster Weight Loss

More than half of the Americans that goes on a weight loss or diet typically would start at the beginning of a new year. 

Unfortunately the difficulty in losing the weight and keeping it off leads many people to turn to a professional or commercial weight loss programs for help. 

Almost all of the commercial weight loss programs can work but only they motivate you sufficiently to change the way you eat or increase the amount of calories you burn through physical activity each day.

Here are 3 important things we at InShapeMD Fayetteville recommend you look for in a faster weight loss program tailored just for you:

1. Make sure it is safe.
Whether you create your own weight loss program or use a commercial one make sure it is safe. A safe diet should include all of the recommended daily allowances for vitamins, minerals and protein. Diets should be lower in calories for energy: women should choose at 1200 calories a day and for men at least 1800 calories per day (unless you're on a reduced calorie diet while on your prescription hCG program).

2. Slow, Steady Weight Loss.
Your goals should be directed toward a slow, steady weight loss unless your doctor feels you are in good health condition and to benefit from a rapid weight loss solution (such as our Countdown program). 

3. An Effective Program That Won't Interfere with Your Current Medical Condition(s).
If you plan to lose more than 15 to 20 pounds with some health problems and/or if you are taking medication on a regular basis, have a doctor evaluate you before you start a weight loss program.

Our wellness team at InShapeMD Fayetteville can offer you these 3 important keys to achieving weight loss success. Contact us for a FREE consultation or to get started on one of our programs TODAY: (678)817-0181.

Here's to big results and small waistlines!
--The InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Sip on This, NOT That...The Skinny on Smoothies

Spring is right around the corner and soon, summertime will be here. 

Even while you're thinking about your spring break trip, ice cold smoothies sound like a delicious treat, and they're available at many quick serve joints. 

But remember not all these beverages are made equal, although they all sound the same.

Over the years, the favorite brand Jamba Juice has expanded its menu to include a variety of drinks to breakfast wraps, fro-yo, baked goods and even kids' options. 

With so much to choose from, it can make your head spin. Even if you're being good and sticking to the the smallest size to keep down calories and sugar, let's give the blender a little whirl and see what it spits out when you order. 

A list of the lowest calorie smoothies in a typical stand:

Peach Perfection (16 ounces) 210 calories, 42 grams of sugar.

Berry UpBeet (16 ounces) 230 calories, 38 grams of sugar.

Strawberry Whirl (16 ounces) 220 calories, 46 grams of sugar.

Orange Carrot Karma (16 ounces) 180 calories, 38 grams of sugar.

COMPARED TO THIS: A real NO-NO!

Peanut Butter Moo’d (original size) 770 calories, 109 grams of sugar.

Chocolate Moo’d (original size) 570 calories, 103 grams of sugar.

Strawberry Surf Rider (power size) 640 calories, 139 grams of sugar.

Some classic smoothies are available in “Make it Light” options, with one third fewer calories, carbs and sugar, but there's no indication on Jamba Juice's website that these new lighter ingredients are as light as they seem. 

Be on the safe side and stay stay away from them if possible! If you're really craving a smoothie, make one at home so you're aware exactly what's going in to it and you can control the amount of calories and sugar you're taking in. We can even send you some of our favorite smoothie recipes, which are even hCG-friendly. 

Contact us TODAY for additional weight management support or for information about our products & services!

--The InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Beef Up Your Health with This InShapeMD Fayetteville hCG-Friendly Recipe

When used in conjunction with a special low calorie diet, hCG has proven to be be “the obesity weight loss cure” in the industry. 

When your hypothalamus is reset, your body receives signals to break down and use body fat that is meant to be stored as fuel. 

To maintain the delicate process of losing weight, a low calorie diet should be followed to maximize the benefits. With time and effort, you'll see exceptional  fat loss results and amazing body transformations.

Below is a tasty hCG -friendly recipe sure to "beef up" your health:

Beef Stuffed Tomatoes

Ingredients
-1 lb. extra lean ground meat (164 calories)
-4 large tomatoes (45 calories)
-½ med. chopped onion (30 calories)
-2 stalks chopped celery (20 calories)
-1 small zucchini, grated (60 calories)
-1 clove garlic (40 calories)
-salt and pepper to taste (0 calories)

Directions
Cut tops of tomatoes, scoop out the pulp and reserve. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add tomato pulp, onion, celery, zucchini, garlic and seasonings. 
Cook and stir until vegetables are tender. Remove from heat. Lightly mist a shallow baking dish with olive oil cooking spray and place each tomato into the baking dish. 
Stuff each tomato shell equally with the meat mixture , spooning any leftover into the bottom of the baking dish. 
Bake for about 20 mins. Serve each with leftover meat from the baking dish spooned around the tomato. Makes 4 servings.

Caloric total: 359 calories

Visit our InShapeMD Fayetteville web site for more information about healthful eating and find out how we can help you reach your weight loss goals TODAY.

Here's to beating obesity and becoming healthier for life!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Experts

It's a Steak-Out: This Week's hCG-Friendly Recipe from from InShapeMD Fayetteville

Looking for some creative ways to stay on your prescription hCG program WITHOUT the boredom of diet foods?!

Well good news: our InShapeMD Fayetteville wellness team can help! The following hCG-friendly recipe can help keep you full & healthy while you continue to LOSE WEIGHT safely. 

With high levels of lean, unprocessed proteins followed by hearty servings of fruit and veggies... your hCG regimen can actually taste great-- The only thing missing? Those excess calories. Enjoy!

Steak & Spinach Crunchy Apple Salad

Ingredients:
- ¼ cup spiced chai tea (35 calories)
- 3.5 oz. lean beef or grilled chicken (278 calories)
- 3. 5 oz. spinach leaves (30 calories)
- 1 medium-sized apple cut into small pieces (72 calories)

Directions:
   Pour your spiced chai tea a pan with salt, pepper and herbs as desired. Add steak (or chicken) and apples to the pan and simmer on medium heat until the veal shows well cooked. Cut the steak into bite size pieces. Place spinach into a deep bowl. Add the meat & apple to your bed of spinach and mix with any juices from the pan (adding more tea makes more juice which serves as your salad dressing). Toss with sodium-free salt, pepper and/or spices and enjoy!

Caloric total: 415 calories.

Visit our InShapeMD Fayetteville web site for more information about healthful eating or to find out how we can help you reach your weight loss goals TODAY.

Here's to healthy snacking and dropping those extra pounds! 
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Experts

InShapeMD Fayetteville Helps You Pinpoint Your Hidden Hurdles to Losing Weight

Everyone faces challenges in maintaining a healthy diet, but you can't let bumps in the road keep you from reaching your weight loss goal. 

Maybe you just started your weight loss journey and you're not seeing the results you expected. Even people who have been steadily losing weight for some time can stall out and stop shedding pounds as quickly. 

It's important not to get frustrated by these situations. Instead, use them as opportunities to carefully consider your diet and exercise habits and make improvements. 

They're not always easy to identify, but obstacles to successful weight loss are everywhere. Here are four you should look out for to meet your goals:

• You're following your diet and exercise plan too rigorously. Wait, what?! Who knew there was such a thing, but it is true. A "cheat day" on which you eat foods you normally not included in your diet plan can actually rev up your metabolism and help you overcome a weight loss plateau. In addition to the physiological benefits, enjoying some of your favorite foods in reasonable portions from time to time can re-energize your will power. 

• You're too focused on "healthful eating." This one runs counter to dieter's intuition. Researchers have found that thinking of your meal as "healthy" as opposed to "filling" or "indulgent" actually makes your brain release a hormone that makes you feel less full and signals your metabolism to slow down! Make an effort to savor the more decadent parts of your meal like the nuts and cheese on your salad or the bacon bits roasted with your Brussels sprouts. By incorporating elements of treats into your everyday eating habits, you can feel more satisfied without adding excessive calories. 

• You always choose foods labeled low-fat or light. The trick is not to choose foods that are labeled much at all! Highly processed foods, even "healthy" versions, are never going to be as good for you as fruits and vegetables. When you're grocery shopping, start in the produce aisle and make most of your choices there. It's a good idea to avoid aisles that contain tempting foods altogether.

• You pay with plastic at the grocery store. The rise of debit card usage means most people don't carry much cash anymore. However, it might pay to stop at the ATM before you shop. One study found that shoppers who pay with credit cards buy significantly more unhealthy, calorie-dense foods. If you know you're going in with a certain amount of money to spend, you're more likely to avoid junk food impulse buys and stick to your shopping list.

If you can avoid these common pitfalls, you'll be in great shape... literally! Tell us in the comments box below how you avoid concealed calories and dieting disasters.

--The InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Team

Four Goodness Sake: 4 Reasons Obesity Should Matter to You

It's alarming but true-- obesity rates in the U.S. are soaring. Between 1980 and 2000, adult obesity rates doubled. And today, about 60 million adults (which is approximately 30% of the population) are now obese.

A person is considered obese when their body mass index (or BMI) measures higher than 30. A BMI of 25 to 29 is considered overweight. The BMI, by the way, is a scale that calculates obesity by measuring a ratio between your height and weight. Want to know your own body mass index?
Click on this link to right to ---> calculate your own BMI online.

Whether you're currently obese, overweight or trying to maintain your healthy weight... Here are four major reasons why obesity should matter to you:

1. Obesity adversely impacts children and young people. Type 2 diabetes (which was once believed to affect only adults) is now being diagnosed among young people, including children. 61% of overweight kids 5 to 10 years of age today have at least one risk factor for heart disease, with 26% of them having two or more risk factors.
2. Obesity can hit your pocketbook. Researchers say $190 billion was spent on obesity-related health care in 2005. Forbes reported in 2012 that healthcare spending related to obesity has grown larger than smoking-related healthcare costs. In addition to direct health care costs like doctor bills and prescription drugs, individuals may also experience lost income from missing work, higher insurance premiums and other costs from being significantly overweight.
3. Obesity can be prevented or corrected. Healthy lifestyles can prevent people from becoming obese or reduce obesity among those who are very overweight. Still, only 25% of the adult population eats the recommended five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and more than 50% of adults do NOT get the recommended amount of physical activity. More than a third of our younger population (in grades 9-12) do NOT regularly engage in any vigorous physical activity to help them lose some of that excess weight.
4. Some health effects of obesity are very difficult to correct. High cholesterol and triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats and shortness of breath are just a few of the complications related to obesity. Many people also experience pain in their joints and arthritis flare-ups, because of the amount of pressure excess weight puts on their joints. Medications are often prescribed to ease these symptoms, but losing weight is typically the best cure.

If you're obese or overweight, you can start changing your life TODAY at InShapeMD Fayetteville. Our medical weight loss programs provide a doctor-guided, personalized approach to weight loss and wellness. Our programs are affordable, simple and designed just for you... to help you reach your goals quickly & safely. Visit our website to get started NOW!

Here's to beating obesity and becoming healthier for life!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Experts



Has obesity negatively impacted you? Post your experiences in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

Lighten Up with Green Coffee Bean Extract

If you think that coffee is only good to perk you up, think again. New scientific studies show green coffee beans can also help you lighten up.

Doctor Oz raved about them on his show, calling them a "fat burner in a bottle," and our patients at InShapeMD Fayetteville agree! Doctor Oz highlighted a scientific study that found test subjects taking green coffee bean extract lost more than 10% of their body weight and 16% of their total body fat in just 12 weeks! And that was on a 2,400 calorie per day diet! An astonishing average of 17 lbs. lost per participant with ZERO side effects.

How does GREEN COFFEE BEAN EXTRACT work?

1. Green coffee bean extract causes the body to burn glucose sugar.
2. Green coffee bean extract allows the release of sugar into your bloodstream, which prevents fat from building up in your body.
3. Green coffee bean extract has a synergistic effect on the body, which helps burn and block fat accumulation, all these without any side effects.

Each capsule of Green Coffee Bean Complex contains 350 mg. of green coffee bean (50%) extract. Visit the InShapeMD Fayetteville website today to learn more about this and other exciting new weight loss products!

Here's to looking great and making others green with envy!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Experts

Have Some Four-titude: 4 Waistline-Friendly Snacks Your Whole Family Can Enjoy

You know the drill: the kids get home from school and head straight for the kitchen.

You’ve been doing well on your diet program, but the pizza rolls and cookies are so tempting.

Sticking to a healthy eating plan doesn’t mean you can’t join the kids for an after-school snack… you just have to be prepared!

Here are four easy snacks you can whip up in a flash with ingredients you probably have in your fridge and pantry.

1. Strawberry-Banana Smoothie: In your blender combine ½ cup of strawberries (fresh or frozen), 1 small slice of banana, ½ cup of low fat yogurt, and ½ cup of skim milk and blend them until frothy. It’s a potassium powerhouse folks, and also good for lowering your blood pressure. Plus, it tastes great, so the kids will love it.
2. Cheese and Grapes: Halve about a cup of mixed red and purple grapes, slice up some reduced fat cheese, and you are ready to go. Just be careful to watch the serving sizes of cheese for you and the kids—it’s easy to overdo. Grapes contain antioxidants which ward off cancer and heart disease. Plus, the protein makes the snack more filling which helps with portion control.
3. Celery Sticks with Sunflower Seed Butter: This is a great way to add some fiber to your family’s diet. Spread 2 tablespoons of sunflower seed butter on crunchy celery stalks. This peanut butter substitute is loaded with vitamin E and antioxidants, and celery is a good source of blood building vitamin K and blood pressure regulating potassium. Try it with other nut butters as well or get nostalgic and throw on a few raisins for ants on a log!
4. Peanut Butter on a Banana: Just couldn’t get any better than this, simply spread a tablespoon of creamy natural peanut butter on a banana cut in half lengthwise. Peanut butter is rich in heart-healthy fats and a dose of protein to satisfy you and the banana’s a good source of potassium, fiber, and even a little vitamin C.

Quick afternoon snacking doesn’t have to mean high fat, high calorie, processed junk! What are your favorite healthy snacks? Post your recipes in the comments below!

Visit the InShapeMD Fayetteville website for more information about healthy eating and to find out how we can help you reach your weight loss goals.

Here's to healthy snacking and dropping those extra pounds!
--Your InShapeMD Fayetteville Wellness Experts