Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Magazine We Recommend: NewBeauty Magazine


NewBeauty magazine is the ultimate cosmetic enhancement guide. Covering plastic surgery, non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as lasers & aesthetic injectables, cosmetic dentistry & the latest results-driven beauty products. A must-have resource for anyone interested in improving their appearance..


To order, go to:

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Eat This, Not That! Thousands of Simple Food Swaps that Can Save You 10, 20, 30 Pounds--or More!



Eat This, Not That! Thousands of Simple Food Swaps that Can Save You 10, 20, 30 Pounds--or More!by David Zinczenko, Matt Goulding

Click here to order this book.

Americans spend more than $400 billion a year eating out, and behind each burger, turkey sandwich, and ice cream sundae is a simple decision that could help you control your weight--and your life. The problem is, restaurant chains and food producers aren't interested in helping you make healthy choices. In fact, they invest $30 billion a year on advertising, much of it aimed at confusing eaters and disguising the fat and calorie counts of their products.

All of that has changed with EAT THIS, NOT THAT! This book puts the entire food industry under the spotlight, and arms you with the savvy tricks and insider information it takes to eat well no matter where you are. With EAT THIS, NOT THAT! you're the expert in every eating situation, from the frozen food aisle to your favorite fast food joint to your local sports bar. You control your food universe--and lose the pounds you want--because, unlike every other customer, you'll know the smart choices to make--instantly!

EAT THIS, NOT THAT! is jam-packed with secrets the restaurant industry doesn't want you to know. For example: * Burger King doesn't want you to know that a BK Big Fish® Sandwich and fries have a whopping 1000 calories--nearly half your daily caloric intake! (Fish is usually healthy, but not this kind. Find out why with this book.) * Pizza Hut doesn't want you to know that a standard pizza in Italy contains 500 to 800 calories, but the same meal at Pizza Hut can top 2,100 calories! (You'd need to ride a stationary bike for more than three hours to burn off this mistake. Instead, eat all the pizza you want by making smart choices.

EAT THIS, NOT THAT! shows you how.) * Macaroni Grill doesn't want you to know that a single serving of their Grilled Teriyaki Salmon has more than three times your daily allowance of sodium! (Cut your risk of high blood pressure by making smart choices at the same restaurant. You'll find them inside.)

If only you knew the industry secrets, you could eat at any of your favorite restaurants--or chow down on everything from the company vending machine to your kids' Halloween buckets--and know that every decision you made was smart, healthy, and the best possible choice for you. For example, did you know: * At McDonald's, an Egg McMuffin® is actually a healthy choice, with just 300 calories. (The Hotcakes pack more than double that amount!) * At Krispy Kreme, all you need to do is order the Very Berry Chiller instead of the Mocha Dream Chiller, and you'll save 500 calories! (Do that once a week and you'll drop more than 7 pounds this year--without trying!) * At Chipotle, you can cut 570 calories out of your Chicken Burrito just by ordering it as a bowl (without the tortilla) and asking them to hold the rice. (Same great taste, but with 94 fewer carb grams!) * Choosing a cinnamon roll at Au Bon Pain over Cinnabon will save you 463 calories and 20 grams of fat! * In the freezer section of your local supermarket, a turkey pot pie from Swanson's has 610 fewer calories than a turkey pot pie from Pepperidge Farms. * In the produce aisle, you'll get twice the vitamin C--and nine times as much vitamin A--simply by picking red bell peppers over green ones. (Who said eating healthy was difficult?)

And that's why EAT THIS, NOT THAT! is going to change everything. It's time to level the playing field. We're all tired of sneaky calories adding to our waistlines, and having to starve ourselves or spend hours on the treadmill trying to burn off the damage. Now--for the first time--you're in charge. With this simple illustrated guide to thousands of foods--along with the nutrition secrets that lead to fast and permanent weight loss--you'll make the smartest choice every time!

About the Author

DAVID ZINCZENKO, editor in chief of Men's Health magazine, is the author of the New York Times best-sellers The Abs Diet and The Abs Diet for Women. Once an overweight child growing up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Zinczenko has become one of the nation's leading experts on health and fitness. He is a regular contributor to the Today show, and has appeared on Oprah, Good Morning America, and Primetime Live. MATT GOULDING is the food and nutrition editor of Men's Health. He has cooked and eaten his way across the world, touching down in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where he divides most of his time between keyboard and stovetop.

Click here to order this book

ISBN: 1594868549

Ahwatukee Derma Health Institute Clinic Grand Opening

Join us on March 3, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm for the Grand Opening Celebration of our brand new Derma Health Institute location in Ahwatukee.

The event features multiple drawings for free Botox, Juvederm, and laser treatments just for attending. Refreshments will be provided and we will be demonstrating all the latest proceedures we offer at DHI. This new location is located at:

1345 E. Chandler Blvd
Building Number 1, Ste. 105
Phoenix, AZ 85048
Southwest corner of E. Marketplace & Chandler Blvd., just east of Desert Foothills Parkway.
Click here for directions and a map

If you have any questions about the event, please call our Ahwatukee loaction at 480-460-1505 or click here to use our online contact form.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

101 Worry-Free HCG Diet Recipes Plus Hints & Tips From Experts

Great Taste Yet Strict Adherance to the HCG Protocol (Paperback) by Linda Prinster.

This receipe book has 101 recipes that boast great taste and lots of variety; yet strict adherance to Dr. Simeons / Kevin Trudeau's HCG Diet Protocols. While these are designed for the diet phase, the recipes can easily be adapted to the other phases of the protocol to provide extremely low-calorie, healthy meals.

ISBN: 1438206933

To order, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=218

Comments, Reviews, and Testimonials From Real People Who Have Tried the hCG Diet

Click here to register for our free seminar about the hCG Diet. Get all your questions answered in one easy session.

"I was not sure what to expect when I decided to do a round of HCG. I was really nervous about the strict diet and the low calorie amount. I found that I wasn't hungry at all! I learned there is a big difference between wanting food, and needing food. I had cravings for sweets, but I wasn't hungry and it made me feel so good to be able to tell myself "No, you don't need that." I think it has opened a new light on food, and a whole new way of eating healthier for myself and the family. I was surprised at the change in my body. Not only did I lose 18 pounds, my clothes fit so much better. I know it is called pounds and inches but I never expected the great results I achieved in such a short time. Thank you so much!" - Theresa

"I would consider myself a fairly healthy person who was pretty good about doing exercise to keep in shape. As I entered into my 30's I started to realize how much easier it was to gain weight and how hard you had to work to loose just one pound. I could work out pretty hard and just stay right where I was as far as weight goes. I did the HCG diet plan, got to a healthy weight and where I wanted to be and have been able to keep it off. It would have taken 6 months to do what I did in 6 weeks! During my diet I felt great, had energy and didn't feel deprived of food. It was also a huge eye opening experience to see just how much we over eat! I'm really happy with where I have gotten and how easy it has been to keep it off." - Karla

"The hCG diet is amazing. I lost 40 lbs in 31 days!!! I couldn’t believe how much I lost. Ever since leaving the military after I was injured I stopped caring and just put on weight. By the time I realized something had to be done I was 285 lbs. Over the next YEAR I was able to drop 30lbs. But I reached a major stall and just couldn’t seem to find a way past it. Dr. Hooker introduced me to the hCG diet and I was enthusiastic but skeptical to say the least. I realized that this was only a 26 day protocol, and thought 'I can do that, its not even 1 month'. So I went for it and I was having such amazing results I asked for an extra week to hit that 40lb mark and I did it. I haven’t weighed this little since leaving the military. After finishing the full protocol I am still losing weight without trying again. Thank you Dr. Hooker and Derma Health Institute I feel amazing again!" - Michael

Click here to register for our free seminar about the hCG Diet. Get all your questions answered in one easy session.

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 21: It’s Over! Hallelujah and AMEN!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her experiences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1 lbs.

Get me out of here! One more day of denying myself the simplest of pleasures…bread! By the way, isn’t bread supposed to be some sort of foundation of life or something? And these kinds of foundations, these simplicities…these are the things that brought me to this place to begin with!

I’m down another pound today. Hooray! So I end at 136 pounds. Not too shabby! I’ve got my final weigh in and appointment with Dr Watwood and I’m thrilled that I’m going in there yet another pound lighter. This is going to be the best Dr’s appointment EVER!

The Dr and I had some good discussion about keeping my calories up more; making sure that I don’t loose any energy and giving my metabolism a chance to really work to my advantage. Okay, okay! Weigh me already!! Measure me now!!

Here goes:

STARTED ENDED
Weight 154.8 135.6
Measure 1”above belly button 35” 29”
Measure 1” below belly button 37.5” 34"
Hips 40” 36.5
Right thigh 23” 21"
Left thigh 23” 21”

Hey, wait a minute! My scale is about ½ pound off! Oh well, it’s all headed in the right direction! I’m shocked at the loss of inches. In fact, I pretty sure I started to tear up in her office today. This has been a long haul and even though I have a great satisfaction in feeling good and fitting into all my clothes again, I’m feeling exhausted at the tremendous toll this has taken on me mentally.

I can’t recall any other time I’ve done something so ridiculously taxing. And it’s food. This simple looking thing that is there to give us the sustenance we need to function throughout our day. So easily abused, this simple thing. I’m going to celebrate today. I won’t be having any ice cream parties for myself, but I will leave this office and breathe deeply. I’ll find myself smiling throughout the day for no apparent reason. I’ll give myself mental hugs and pats on the back as I go through this day.

Now, I can set my sights on the next day. I can be reasonable and calculate what I’m eating without beating myself up. I can set new goals for myself…and keep them. I can see food and now it only takes a second for me to consider it. I can say no without feeling as though I’m missing out. 19 pounds lost! 17 inches gone! And now, a new list of priorities for myself…

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 20: I Can See the Finish Line!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .2 lbs.

Two more days of this! I can hear the potato section of the grocery store calling my name! It’s a little faint, but they are so excited that I will be seeing them again!

After increasing my calories yesterday, I felt a bit of panic as I stepped on the scale this morning. I’m up .2 pounds. But it’s my own fault. Had I been increasing this calorie intake all along, my body would have adjusted by now. I’m not going to stress. I’ll keep plugging along, eating what I know will give me some good energy and hopefully, my body will chill out and find its happy place.

I’m starting to realize that my mind is wandering all over the place as I approach the final days of this diet. I’m wondering if I’ll keep this weight off. I’m wondering how my exercise will affect this loss. I’m thinking that I’ll go shopping next week! And of course, I’m trying to plan what I’ll eat on my first day back to “normal-ville!” Pasta? A baked potato? Bread?? I’m excited to get back to normal but nervous at the same time. I’m looking forward to seeing Dr Watwood and discussing these pesky little worries!

Breakfast: coffee, water, banana w/ peanut butter
Lunch: left-over steak, some cheese, water
Dinner: chicken tortilla soup (minus the tortilla), water, beer
Snack: almonds, pistachios, some cheese, water

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 980

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 19: I’m in BIG Trouble!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .5 lbs.

I spoke with Dr Watwood just to clear up some questions and confirm my upcoming appointment. I’m in BIG trouble! She brought up the fact that my calorie intake has been VERY low! This is not good! I was kindly chastised and told to bring it back up to 1200.

Looking back on my spreadsheet, I figure that there’s always some shaky math that goes into these estimates, but for the most part, I realize that I haven’t been eating very much. I may vary my foods, but the portion sizes are so small that it brings down my calorie average for the day. Dr Watwood told me that unless I bring my calories up, my body won’t be able to properly re-adjust and re-start my metabolism. (Bad Gina! Bad Gina!)

She stressed that although we are all different, one thing is sure and that is that we all need these calories to function throughout our days. We need to burn these off regularly and maintain our energy levels. I agree.

There are two reasons that I haven’t been eating my required calories. I legitimately haven’t been hungry. I’ll eat a snack, or even a small meal and I’m full. I drink water like a fish all day and feel full. I haven’t been hungry quite frankly. The second reason is that I’m scared to death to eat again. There’s a very real fear that accompanies this diet for me. I never want to be that old weight again and I will do everything I can do to keep the weight off and stay as healthy as possible.

Even when I’m hungry, I’m scared to eat and am so conscious about not going overboard. Because of these two factors, my calories are terribly low and in the long run, I will have a harder time when I adjust to having starch again. I need to amp it up – a lot!

This morning I was down another .5 pounds. I’m sitting at 136.5 and will be seeing Dr Watwood in two days….my final day!

Breakfast: coffee, water, whole banana w/ peanut butter
Lunch: vegetable soup, water, cheese
Dinner: larger steak, side salad, beer
Snack: handful of almonds, water

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 1000

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Monday, January 19, 2009

Latisse FDA Approved Prescription Eyelash Enhancer


Derma Health Institute of Arizona has added a new treatment service for growing longer, fuller, darker lashes. It’s not an illusion. It’s your own lashes — only better. Get ready for a new innovation in lashes.

LATISSE™ (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% is the first and only prescription treatment approved by the FDA for inadequate or insufficient eyelashes, growing them longer, fuller and darker.

LATISSE™ works effectively.

LATISSE™ makes lash growth possible because of its active ingredient: bimatoprost. Although the precise mechanism of action is not known, research suggests that the growth of eyelashes occurs by increasing the percent of hairs in, and the duration of, the anagen (or growth) phase. Lashes can grow longer, thicker and darker because bimatoprost can also prolong this growth phase.

Clinically proven results you can see over time.

LATISSE™ is easy to use, FDA approved and effective. It’s a once-a-day treatment you apply topically to the base of your upper eyelashes. Patients in a clinical trial saw results gradually over time (starting at 4 weeks with full results after 16 weeks).

It’s an innovation backed by research.

While LATISSE™ is a new treatment in eyelash growth, it was developed through years of research by Allergan, a pharmaceutical leader with over 60 years of expertise in prescription eye care products. In the clinical study, 78% saw significant increases in all of the following three measurements at week 16: length, fullness and darkness.

What to Expect

Great eyelashes don’t just happen overnight. That’s why it’s important to note that LATISSE™ (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% works gradually and remarkably — starting at 4 weeks with full results after 16 weeks. Once you begin treatment, you could start to see results in as little as 4 weeks, but you must continue applying the topical treatment each night and follow the directions for best results. Remember results are gradual over time.Your eyelashes will experience real measurable growth.

LATISSE™ works from the inside out. As the treatment progresses, you’ll begin to see changes in length, thickness and darkness gradually. After week 16, you’ll see the full effect of LATISSE™ — and so will others.

FAQ

What is LATISSE™ (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03%?
LATISSE™ solution is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis used to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker.

What is hypotrichosis of the eyelashes?
Hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes.

How does LATISSE™ work?
The active ingredient in LATISSE™ is bimatoprost. Although the precise mechanism of action is not known, research suggests that the growth of eyelashes occurs by increasing the percent of hairs in, and the duration of, the anagen (or growth) phase. Lashes can grow longer, thicker and darker because bimatoprost can also prolong this growth phase.

How do I apply LATISSE™?
LATISSE™ is a once-a-day treatment you apply yourself each evening to the base of the upper eyelashes. See the full instructions in How to Apply.

How soon will I see results?
LATISSE™ users may see results starting at 4 weeks with full results after 16 weeks. The growth is gradual overnight, over time.

Is LATISSE™ a replacement for mascara?
No, LATISSE™ does not work in place of mascara. However, mascara is a nice complement to LATISSE™ to help make your new longer eyelashes look even more attractive.

Is LATISSE™ different from nonprescription products that indicate eyelash growth?
LATISSE™ solution is the first and only prescription treatment approved by the FDA for inadequate or insufficient eyelashes, growing them longer, fuller and darker.

What if I forget to apply one night? Or a few nights?
If you miss an application or a few, don’t try to catch up. Just apply the LATISSE™ treatment the next evening and stay on schedule.

What happens if I stop using LATISSE™?
If you stop using LATISSE™, your eyelashes are expected to return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months.

Is LATISSE™ safe?
LATISSE™ is an FDA-approved prescription treatment for hypotrichosis used to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker. Hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes. The FDA reviewed clinical study results to verify the identity, potency, purity, and stability of the ingredients, and demonstrated that the product is safe and effective for its intended use if used as prescribed.

For more information, see our web site at http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=217

Saturday, January 17, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 18: No More Cycle!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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I’ve gained again and I’m hoping this is still a part of my monthly cycle. I’m back to 137 and actually not feeling all that uncomfortable about it. I think my body is settling into this weight and I’m actually good with that. My clothes fit again and I have a lot more energy! But don’t get me wrong, just because a lot of my clothes fit doesn’t mean I’m not going to go shopping! Trust me, as soon as this is over, I’ll be camping out at the mall!

Tonight, we’re going out to eat and I’m bracing myself. The place we’re going is one of our favorite haunts but serve a lot of sandwiches. No bread for me! I’ve been craving a meatball sub lately and this place serves a killer sub! Maybe I’ll “half” it without the bun and order a salad instead of fries. Definitely not the fare I’m used to, but I can still get a little taste of the good stuff without going overboard. This place also has one of my favorite beers on tap, so…. It’s a good trade off!

Breakfast: coffee, water, apple
Lunch: vegetable soup (light and healthy brand)
Dinner: ½ meatloaf sub (minus roll), side salad, one beer

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 955

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Friday, January 16, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 16 and 17: Same Ole, Same Ole!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .0 lbs.

I’ve decided to combine these two stabilization days for my journal. I’m not sure if that’s cheating or not, but I’d hate to bore you with details that are so repetitive! (you can thank me later!)

These two days were much of the same. I did some yo-yo work with the scale due to my menstrual cycle and I didn’t have any real menu problems to report. I lost a pound on day 16 but then gained a ½ pound the next day. My water intake has not been very stable and shame on me for this! During our periods, we really should be faithful to our water consumption. Even though the water weight gain is inevitable, we can still maintain our habits throughout this time of the month. Regardless of any day of any week, this water intake is a good flushing out for our systems and I really need to get back on the wagon with this practice!

One thing I’m getting concerned about is my calorie intake. I’m finding that there are days that I sit between the 600-700 calorie mark. I’ll be asking Dr. Watwood about this. I find that my hunger subsides throughout the day and I’d rather just eat a piece of lunch meat, a bite of a banana or a handful of almonds to get me through. These small snacks are doing the trick when it comes to not over-eating, but I’m wondering if I’m eating less calories than my body requires.

The mind games are also working. I find that I’m thinking ahead of myself with the menu for the day and that I’m not taking as many trips to the refrigerator as I had in the past. Planning seems to be the key with this diet. Figuring out a system that literally stops me when I’m preparing food is helping the most. I’m no longer grabbing food without thinking and I find that preparing meals for the family have also taken on a healthier route. (My family is losing weight and they don’t even know it!)

Day 16Breakfast: coffee, water, egg whites scrambled with cheeseLunch: small orange juice, string cheeseDinner: taco salad, one beerSnack: handful of almonds

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 639

Day 17
Breakfast: coffee, water, bite of a banana w/ peanut butter
Lunch: Greek salad, water
Dinner: grilled chicken breast (3oz), water
Snack: handful of almonds

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 600

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Thursday, January 15, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 15: And the Winner is…1/2 a Pound!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .4 lbs.

Okay it’s not exactly a ½ pound but .4 is close enough. So I’m back up to 137.4 and these little “point something’s” are starting to get on my nerves. Sure enough, my period has begun and so the short journey of gain a little, loose a little has also gotten underway. My cramping has increased a little bit. Maybe it’s due to the increase of “normal” food now in my system again. I know that the elimination of sugar in my diet has contributed to my cycle being more agreeable but it would be terrific to be able to sink my teeth into something that oozes chocolate right now!

Because of this cycle starting, I’ve rescheduled my follow up appointment and will be heading into the office next week. Dr Watwood encouraged this re-schedule because we won’t be able to get accurate weight or measurement until I even out again. I’m looking forward to these final results. I realize I’m in this final week and wanting desperately to be done with all of this! I’m already started to make out a mental menu of foods that I can re-introduce into my diet!

Breakfast: coffee, water, string cheese
Lunch: salad (lettuce, tomato, olives, cheese, ham, thousand island), water
Dinner: pork chops with sautéed mushrooms, side salad with greek dreesing
Snack: almonds

ESTIMATED CALORIE TOTAL: 720

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 14: Something’s Brewing…

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .4 lbs.

I’m feeling a little funny today. I can feel that old, familiar tightening in my abdomen. My patience is running thin and I don’t know but I just might be aggressive enough to pull a small barge. That time of the month is approaching and besides the fact that it’s the most annoying thing that happens to us women each month, I am loathing the thought of some weight gain during this time. I know that this weight comes and goes throughout the cycle, but it’s just annoying.

I woke to a .4 loss and that carries me down to 137 even. I have my appointment tomorrow and I’m not quite sure if I’ll be able to keep it. I’d hate to see any gains this week which could potentially throw off my final numbers. I’ll see what happens tomorrow and give the doctor a call.

My cravings are also on the rise. Normally, I haven’t felt any urges for chocolate and have no problems turning down deserts. But that doesn’t seem to be the case today. Now I KNOW my period is approaching! I can see myself causing serious bodily harm to anyone that might stand in the way of me and my Haagen-Dazs Chocolate Peanut Butter ice cream right now. (It’s the best thing on the planet you know!) Hopefully, I’ll be able to manage avoiding the ice cream aisle at the grocery store today. Yikes!

Breakfast: coffee, water, one bite of banana with peanut butter
Lunch: beef barley soup (lite)
Dinner: chicken breast with swiss cheese melted, small portion of corn, glass of red wine
Snack: string cheese

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 783

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 13: Eating in Public

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .6 lbs.

We have company in town. Sort of “left-overs” from the holidays. Normally, there would be no problem, but there is a sense of pressure when going out to dinners and lunches. I find myself salivating as the bread is brought to the table or taking a bathroom break as everyone’s desert arrives. Normally, these things wouldn’t be a factor for me as I’ve made conscious decisions on where to eat and how to manage things in public. However, when you have things that are thrown into the mix that you didn’t count on, it can get a bit taxing. Today was a pretty good day. I was given the task of choosing where we would go for lunch (I think they started feeling bad for me). I chose Sweet Tomatoes – a never ending buffet of salad goodies! Now this, I can handle!

This morning, knowing that I was in for some veggie treats at lunch, I had a great attitude stepping on the scale. I’m down .6 pounds which brings me to the grand total of 137.4. Good news! Good news! It’s nice to see myself settling under the final 138 number and hopefully, I can inch down another pound (or two!). As I review notes from previous days and re-check my menu journals, I realize that this has been quite a long haul. A total of about two months (one month sent directly from the pits of hell) and the other a bit more manageable. I look forward to my final weigh-in and follow-up appointment with Dr Watwood. It is at that time where I will really get to see the changes in inches.

Breakfast: coffee, water
Lunch: salad (buffet), small cup of chili, water
Dinner: leftover meatloaf, water
Snack: Dubliner cheese

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 745

- Gina

Click here to view all the articles in this series

Click here for more information about the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Sunday, January 11, 2009

HCG Stabilization Day Diet 12: The Beer Factor…

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .2 lbs.

I know we’re told to stay away from beer and the calories prohibit us from enjoying this small pleasure. But I’ve got to tell you, as I look back on my journals and my calorie database that I’ve been keeping, I don’t see this as a big factor. In fact, many times that I’ve had a beer or two I realize a loss the next day.

Maybe I’m wrong and I’ll definitely bring this up at my follow up appointment, but it seems that beer gets a bad rap. Maybe it’s like everything else; as long as it’s not abused, you won’t really see it on the scale. There are a lot of people I know who would rather sit down to an entire chocolate cake instead of a couple of beers. More power to them. Me? I’d rather put on my cozies, put my feet up, watch the game and have a few. Keep the cake. I’ll pass.

Today, the scale reads that I’ve lost another .2 pounds. That now puts me at an even 138. The only thing that I can see that will alter this downward pattern is the all not-so-subtle hints of my menstrual cycle approaching. I’m sure that this will toss my weight around again such as it did last month. The water weight gain and the bloating are always so much fun and a pleasure to look forward to. Right.

Breakfast: coffee, water, egg beaters (with onion, green pepper, cheese), small orange juice
Lunch: (nothing)
Dinner: meatloaf, two bites of potatoes (shame! shame!)
Snack: handful of almonds and Dubliner cheese

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 609

- Gina

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Saturday, January 10, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 11: Yahoo For Lost Weight!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .7 lbs.

Okay, now I’m not feeling so bad about splurging the other night! I’m down .7 pounds which brings me to 138.2. Yahoo!! Hopefully, my body is finding it’s comfortable place. As I look at the calendar, I realize that I only have another 11 days until I can realize my complete freedom. Although this freedom scares me a little, I’m excited to get my life back. I also have my final follow-up appointment next week and Dr Watwood will be taking my ending measurements and weight. Those numbers will be interesting to say the least!

Today, I met my mother, grandmother and aunt for tea. This should be an easy menu to manage. My husband and I are planning to go out later on tonight to watch the Suns game. This may be a little more difficult because the menu for a sports bar is pretty unforgiving. We’ll see how it goes!

As I get closer to the end of this program, I realize that I’m going to need to construct a new plan for eating from here on out. I will need to focus on some clear goals that will eventually become my new habits. I’ve already conquered the calorie counting. I’ve gotten into the habit of reading labels, planning my days and actually considering food instead of just devouring it.

However, there are some more habits that will need to be broken before I can feel comfortable again. The next few days, I’ll take some time to sit down and write down my new plan. I don’t ever want to go back to being that old weight again and having gone through this type of discipline, I know I have the resolve in me to leave that all behind.

Breakfast: coffee, water
Lunch: grilled chicken on romaine lettuce, tomatoes, onion, blue cheese, oil and vinegar dressing, tea, water
Dinner: hamburger (NO BUN), (tomato, onion, swiss, mushrooms, ketchup, mustard, pickle) side of cole slaw, one beerSnack: one bite banana with peanut butter

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 782

- Gina

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Friday, January 9, 2009

HCG Stabilization Day Diet 10: The Morning After...

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .5 lbs.

It was a New Year’s great party! Yes, I’m up a ½ pound this morning but…it was totally worth it! So now, I’ll get back on the diet and push through this day with a lot of water (oh yes, and some Tylenol). Now, I’m sitting at 138.9

Last night was the first day that I leapt over the 1500 calorie daily limit with great ease. There were plenty of foods that I could eat which was a relief, but as the night continued I snuck a couple pieces of a baguette with a wonderfully tasty balsamic/olive oil dipping sauce. It was fabulous!! Trust me, holding myself to a couple of pieces was the biggest chore of the evening.

I also indulged in a few bites of mashed potatoes (my all time favorite food). I thought at the time, “This is NOT a good idea!” But it was very difficult to refuse these wonderful things I’ve been denying myself. This denial seems to be lasting a lifetime! So, I cheated! And even though I’m kicking myself a bit right now, I know I can hop back on the horse and persevere.

Breakfast: coffee, water, small orange juice, eggs with cheese
Lunch: (nothing)
Dinner: taco salad (94% lean ground beef, lettuce, tomato, olives, onion, cheese, thousand island dressing), water
Snack: ½ apple with peanut butter, water

TOTAL ESTIMATED CALORIES: 596

- Gina

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Thursday, January 8, 2009

HCG Stabilization Day 9: Savin’ Up the Calories For Tonight!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .2 lbs.

Fantastic! I’m down another .2 pounds and I’m bracing myself for the party tonight! Bring it on baby, I can handle it! 138.4 is nothing to sneeze at and I know that I’ll be able to make it through whatever menu they throw at me!

I’ve decided to take it easy today and really limit my calorie intake. I’ve signed up to bring the veggies for the party along with some…cookies that will be added to the desert table. The good thing about this is that I’m making cookies that I don’t really like. It shouldn’t be difficult to bake today – I can say “no” to these little tasties!

Ironically, I find I’m munching a bit on the veggies but it’s all good! I’m also bringing a cheese plate. Again, this is something I can eat. So, note to self: when signing up for a potluck, make sure you’re bringing things you can eat. It takes a huge load off! I’m looking forward to tonight!
Dr. Watwood gave me some pointers about handling times like these. If I simply take a moment in the morning to prepare my menu and practice good discipline throughout the day, I can calculate what I will allow myself to have later. This is one of those times!

Breakfast: coffee, water, one bite of banana with peanut butter
Lunch: left-over taco salad, water
Party time: ham, green beans, cheese, alcoholic beverages…

Party Confessions: a couple pieces of a baguette with dipping sauce – man this is good! a couple bites of mashed potatoes – help!

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 1680

- Gina

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Wednesday, January 7, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 8: Oh Yeah, Baby! A Pound and a Half!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1.4 lb.

It’s another beautiful day here in diet-town! 1.4 pounds lost and now I’m back to 138.6 which is pretty much where I was when I ended the yucky first phase. I’m feeling as though I’m settling into this number. Honestly, I’d like to be 135 but I’ll take what I can get! I don’t know “135” sounds like a nice number.

This day has been awesome! I’ve seen quite a few friends today and they’ve made some great comments about how this new weight looks on me. This is a great ego booster and keeps me heading on this path with more enthusiasm. I’m also thrilled with this loss because I know we have a party to go to tomorrow night and I’m not sure what they’ll have on the menu. I’d like to brace myself for this and the lower number on the scale is mentally helping me a lot.
I’d like to go into this party without having too many worries. I’ve already established that I’m not going to be the designated driver…

Breakfast: coffee, water
Lunch: taco salad (94% lean ground beef, veggies, thousand island dressing)
Dinner: steak, handful of almonds, one beer
Snack: ½ apple with peanut butter

- Gina

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Tuesday, January 6, 2009

HCG Diet Stabilization Day 7: Going Back Down…Whew!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .6 lb.

This morning I woke to find that I’ve gone down .6 pounds. Although I’m happy about this, I am still trying to get a grip on this back and forth thing. I’ve been told that it will take a little while for my body to re-adjust to all of this losing vs. gaining and I can only maintain a healthy diet and hope that my body decides to settle on the “losing” end of things. All in all, I guess I should be happy that I’ve lost all of the pounds that I have so far. I keep reminding myself that all of my jeans fit!

I’m finding that each morning I wake, regardless of what the scale says, I’m looking at food in a whole new way. I actually plan out my eating for that day. I reason through calorie intake and make sure that I’m getting my protein but that I’m not overdoing anything else. I will say that the struggle to stay away from starch and sugar is starting to really get to me. Sugars…no real problem there. But it’s been very difficult to pass on the potatoes during dinner time.

When the family is munching on their French fries with our hamburgers, I have to practice my deep breathing in order to maintain. It also makes me a bit fearful for when I’m able to really eat normally again. Of course, I want to do everything possible to keep this weight off but I feel in order to do that, I’ll never be able to enjoy a piece of bread again!

Breakfast: coffee, water
Lunch: lunch ham rolled in American cheese with mustard
Dinner: vegetable soup, one beer
Snack: handful of cashews

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 500

- Gina

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Saturday, January 3, 2009

HCG Stabilization Day 6: Welcome to Teeter-Tauter Dieting!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up 1 lb.

I think someone up there is messin’ with me! I woke up this morning to the dreaded realization that I was up again. A whole, entire pound. Craziness!! Now, I’m sitting at 140.6 and it’s weird because I don’t feel any different. You would think that I would be able to tell if I’m putting anything extra on, but I actually felt really good today. Go figure.

Today is a difficult day for me. We’re heading out to my grandmother’s to celebrate a belated Christmas. I’ll need to be extra careful today and really be aware of what I’m eating. It’s a good test to go through. I was able to venture through our actual Christmas celebration without incident. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make it through this one as well.

Breakfast: one bite of banana with peanut butter, water, coffee
Lunch: 2 small pieces of ham, green beans, small salad (lettuce, tomato, green olives, cheese, onion and ranch dressing), water
Dinner: 3oz. lean hamburger with mushrooms and blue cheese (NO BUN), 2 beers

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 1310

**CONFESSIONS… I had a Christmas cookie today! Yikes! They were so inviting with their cute little decorations and sprinkles! I managed to walk past the desert table all day, ignoring the subtle, but clear pleas coming out of the cookie tray. They sat there, waiting patiently for me to break and then…I did. It took hours of persistence, but they triumphed over me. And if that weren’t enough, I snuck a bite of potatoes off of my daughter’s plate. Can someone give me the Heimlich? Hurry! I officially fell off the wagon today! So, excuse me while I go into my private space to seek out some sort of personal atonement. Some flogging or penitence perhaps? I have a feeling I might be paying for this tomorrow!

- Gina

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Friday, January 2, 2009

HCG Stabilization Day 5: Down Again! Whoo-Hoo!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .9 lbs.

I’m down another .9 pounds! It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood! 139.6 is looking better and better to me today! As long as I keep this up, I’ll be back to my 138.5 in no time!

I’m running around today – lots of errands to do as we wrap up the holidays. It’s nice to know that while in this new phase, I can be in public and even if I don’t plan on it, I can eat at a restaurant. No longer am I packing little Ziploc bags of yucky food that I have to take everywhere. And of course, the inevitable conversations I have with people who don’t realize I’m on this program. So by the time I get done explaining myself and trying to give justification to my food choices, everything has gotten cold. It’s so nice to be out of that phase!

So here I go! I’m standing in the middle of day 5 and I’m feelin’ good! My weight is evening out and my body feels more able and agile. Come on, say it with me: “Hooray for HCG!” Breakfast: one bite of banana with peanut butter, water, coffeeLunch: Wendy’s single hamburger (lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, mustard, NO BUN!), waterDinner: cream of mushroom soup, a bite of cheese, beerSnack: handful of almonds, water

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 880

- Gina

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Thursday, January 1, 2009

HCG Stabilization Day 4: Heading in the Right Direction…Finally!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Okay, I lost ½ pound – finally the scale is going in the right direction! I know that the doctor said I could expect to move 2 pounds in either direction – it figures I would go in the WRONG direction. But, I’m plugging through this and can’t wait until this whole thing is over. I’m currently 140.5 – keep going!

I have my follow up appointment in a week where it will mark the half way point for this stabilization phase and I’m anxious to fight through it. I’m still quite nervous about eating “normally” again. Each time I make something to eat, it takes me a few minutes of contemplation. “Do I really want this?” “Do I really need this?” “Where’s the nearest bar?” Basically, I’m trying to find this weird balance with my body. Sure, I starved myself and denied myself even the simplest of pleasures for 3 weeks but will it be worth it in the end?

I know that there is one thing that is sure; I look at food differently now. I’m no longer eating to pass the time or grabbing the nearest processed package of whatever and swallowing it whole. I’m no longer captive to food. It’s quite liberating actually. To know that I’m the one in control of what I eat and what I refuse. I’m back in command of my life and they way I feel about myself.

Breakfast: one bite of banana with peanut butter, coffee, water
Lunch: salad (tomato, onion, olives, cheese, greek dressing), vegetable soup
Dinner: beef stew (NO POTATOES), water
Snack: Dubliner cheese

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 637

- Gina

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