Acai (aa-saa-ee) bowls have become extremely popular and patients often ask me if they’re a healthy choice for a meal or snack. The short answer is yes, they can be, but in moderation. Let me explain.  Marketed as a super fruit, the acai berry is pureed with ice and some type of sweetener like honey […]

  When it’s hot out, what better way to cool off than with a refreshing Summer Smoothie? Unlike some versions which can be loaded with sugar (and not much else), this recipe includes protein, fiber and even some veggies. You won't even notice them, I promise. It’s bariatric friendly and even kid-approved with lots of […]

The keto diet has gained popularity in the past few years in New Jersey and beyond, especially on social media. I often get asked whether or not the keto diet is right for bariatric surgery patients. The short answer is no - the keto diet, also known as the Ketogenic Diet, is not generally recommended […]

I want to share one of the current favorites in my house that’s quickly become a daily staple for all of us. It’s the Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. I love it for its ability to jazz up a variety of different healthy foods. The ingredients contain no added chemicals and include sesame […]

We’ve been living a pandemic life for more than a year now. Maybe we’ve paid less attention to choices like what we wear each day or how much we’ve been snacking. Talking to friends, family and patients, gaining the “COVID 19” has become something of a running joke until the call comes to head back […]

“How often should I meet with the registered dietitian?” “Is it necessary to continue visits after I start losing weight?” These are questions the New Jersey Bariatric Center’s registered dietitians get asked all the time. Our answer is always the same - weight loss after surgery is a marathon, not a sprint. Obesity is a disease […]

You’ve made the decision to have bariatric surgery and you’re excited about all the positive changes you’ll be making. Then it hits you, does this mean I will have to be giving up my favorite foods?  No you don’t need to commit to giving up your favorite foods forever, and if you’re concerned about this, […]

Cappello’s is a line of grain-free alternatives to foods like pasta, pizza and cookie dough that I’ve been a fan of for the past several years. One of my favorite products is the no-boil lasagna sheets. They come frozen and all you have to do is defrost them in the fridge for a few hours […]

I’m back to share my latest find with you and it’s a good one! I recently saw Trader Joe’s new Hearts of Palm Pasta on the shelf and just had to try it. Since then, it’s been in regular rotation at my house and I’ve used it a few different ways. The PROS: It looks […]

  Have you ever had a sudden urge to have a certain food or drink immediately or in a particular  moment? Such as, while watching your favorite TV show you felt the need to have a chocolate chip cookie. Yes - then you’ve experienced a craving. Here’s a look at what causes cravings, how to […]

It goes without saying that the holiday season will be different this year due to the pandemic. Either way, food is a traditional part of  most celebrations, whether that’s in-person and socially-distanced or via zoom.  At some point after weight loss surgery, your changing relationship with food will not exist in the safety of a […]

  My family has been going apple picking for as long as I can remember and it’s a tradition I have enjoyed continuing with my own kids. The best part? Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and contain antioxidants. But what to do with all those apples when you get home? I love apple […]