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Not only are eggs a great breakfast food, they are also convenient and easy to take with you. Do you think eggs are boring or that the only way to eat them is hard-boiled or fried? Think again! Here are some fantastic eggcellent recipes for you to try. Do you have a favorite egg recipe? Share it with other bariatric and weight loss surgery patients on our Facebook page!

20 Quick and Easy Ways to Cook Eggs

Get creative with these savory entrees, brunch dishes, desserts and even cocktails.

Poached Egg with Roasted Tomato

Done right and paired with cerry tomatoes, fresh thyme and an English muffin, these poached eggs will be a tasty start to your morning.

Artichoke-Scrambled Eggs Benedict

These scrambled eggs are anything but a boring breakfast food. Roasted artichoke bottoms stand in for English muffins, making this dish an elegant and healthy supper. You can even substitute the pancetta for roasted mushrooms as a vegetarian option.

Mediterranean-Style Poached Eggs

A savory mixture of artichoke hearts, tomatoes, bell pepper and onion creates a delicious bed for your gently cooked eggs. Serve on toast and you have a filling, healthy meal.

Kale, Veggie Sausage and Egg

Here’s a quick, easy breakfast or lunch dish that’s loaded with greens. Kale, garlic egg and olive oil make this a meal that will kickstart your metabolism and leave you feeling satisfied.

Avocado Egg Recipe

Creamy yet crunchy, this colorful egg salad is a great solution for leftover hard-boiled eggs. This recipe uses avocados, fresh radishes and lemon zest – yum!

Baked Asparagus with Fried Egg and Dill

Pair a bit of dill, olive oil, a spritz of fresh lemon and grape tomatoes with asparagus and top with a fried egg and you have a quick, flavorful dish.

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If you are planning a party but want to keep the fat and calories down, here are a few delicious dip recipes for you to make.

Orange & Avocado Salsa

Made with pink grapefruit, minced red onion, cilantro and lime juice, this salsa is light and fresh-tasting.

Greek Spinach Dip

This creamy, calorie-conscious Spinach dip uses fat-free Greek yogurt, sauteed spinach, dill, garlic, scallions, dill, lemon and feta cheese.

Lima Bean Dip

This dip is kind of like hummus, only it uses frozen lima beans, lemon juice, sesame seeds, extra-virgin olive oil and garlic.

Avocado-Yogurt Dip with Cumin

Make this dip up to eight hours before your party and serve with pre-cut veggies and jicama, and give your guests a flavorful twist to the usual party dip.

Light Dip with Veggie Crudites

Light cream cheese, light mayo, light sour cream, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, pepper and the secret ingredient – Roquefort cheese, make for a zesty dip. Blanch bell peppers, cauliflower florets and other tasty veggies and you have crudités ready for dipping.

Lemon-Thyme Dip

This simple yet elegant tip can be served with crudités such as fennel, broccoli or endive.

Avocado-Corn Salsa

Easy and delicious, this colorful salsa is made with ripe tomatoes, frozen corn and avocado.

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If you’re like the majority, you might be losing sight of your goals or starting to slip just a little bit. No problem. Just keep in mind, to facilitate change in your life you need a sense of urgency and determination. Weight loss is a marathon – not a sprint.

Here are five ways you can transform you goals into real change in your life:

1. Accept the fact that you’re human. We are not perfect, and until we accept that we will never be able to change.

2. Acknowledge what you would like to change by saying it out loud or writing it down. “I have a problem with resisting ice cream,” or “I have a problem getting to the gym on weekdays.” By identifying your issue, it puts a name to what you would like to change and sets in motion your intent to take yourself more seriously.

3. Dedicate yourself to change. If you can’t make it to the gym during the week because of time constraints, write down other activities that you can do closer to the home or even in your living room. If you can’t seem to resist sweets, research tasty, healthy snacks that you can take with you so you have that extra ammunition when sweets are put in front of you.

4. Discipline yourself by repeating your goals to yourself every day. You can say it out loud or write it down. Reaffirmation can come in the form of writing down how many calories you eat every day or how much exercise you are getting.

5. Get started on your action plan. Steady progress, even if it is slow, will keep you moving toward your goal. Starting small and building on little victories it will reap huge benefits in the long-term. Exercise one day a week and build to four days a week over the course of two months.

Doing one thing daily that moves your toward your goal will help you begin a pattern of change that will accelerate over time. People often give up because of a feeling of overwhelm. Don’t feel like you have to do everything at once – take baby steps and keep a close eye on your goals. One day at a time is how big change is achieved.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery as a solution for your obesity? Come to one of our FREE informational seminars and find out whether weight loss surgery is a viable solution for you!  Click here to view our calendar to see when you can next join us.

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Available for several gaming consoles, this game brings fitness to the living room. Just follow the choreographed moves to fun, rhythmic tunes and you’ll be a Dance Dance Revolution pro in no time.

2. Capoeira

This Brazilian martial art mixes dance, music and acrobatics. Don’t worry if you’re just a beginner. There’s many levels of the art – just be ready to move, be active and have a lot of fun.

3. Kettle Cardio

No, not tea kettle. Kettle bells are a great way to add strength training to your cardio workout. You can find kettle bells from 5 – 65 pounds in your local Walmart or Dick’s Sporting Goods.

4. Taekwondo

You don’t have to be a fighter to enjoy the Korean martial art, taekwondo. Its dynamic forms make for an interesting workout for martial artists at any level. Taekwondo’s structured classes are perfect for beginners and its focus on the lower body will get your heart rate up in no time.

5. Disc Golf

Grab a few friends and a few frisbees and head to one of the many disc golf courses in Massachusetts. Walk, jog or run through the courses as you try to toss your disc into the target “holes.”

6. Jumping Rope

It’s not just for kids! Jumping rope is an amazing aerobic activity that burns tons of calories – plus it’s a budget-friendly activity you can take with you anywhere.

7. Tai Chi

Get in touch with your inner peace. Tai Chi centuries old, originating in China and is a way you can connect your body and mind through meditative, slow, controlled and fluid movements. But don’t let its slow-pace fool you. Tai Chi improves coordination, increases strength and even lowers blood pressure and stress levels.

8. Spin

Looking for a low-impact workout where you can control the intensity? Spin classes might be for you. These indoor cycling classes set to upbeat music offer an energized atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re bicycling through a disco. You’re whole body will reap the benefits.

9. Cardio Kickboxing

This cardio class takes traditional kickboxing and combines it with fast-paced music, quick movements and stretching. Plus, don’t forget how amazing your legs will look after a few of these classes.

10. Boot Camp

Need an extra kick in the caboose to motivate you? Enroll in a bootcamp session. These intense workout sessions give you the guidance of a personal training session with the support that comes with group fitness classes. If you’re a person who needs a little extra motivation to work out, these classes might be for you.

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Chicken wrap with whole wheat tortilla
Use a whole wheat tortilla and put a little low-fat mayo on it. Add grilled chicken breast, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers for a healthy meal that will provide your body with both wholesome carbohydrates and protein.

The better trail mix
Trail mix is one of the ultimate “anywhere” snacks. But don’t splurge on the store-bought varieties (which are often laden with hydrogenated oils and sugars); it’s easy to make your own. Mix pecans, almonds and dried fruit together with sunflower seeds and whole-wheat pretzels. Store the trail mix in a sealable container for easy access when you need some energy on the go.

Protein peanut butter balls
These are easy to make, quick to prepare and provide you with the protein and nutrition your body needs to stay healthy. Mix 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 2 scoops of protein powder, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries and 1 cup of dry oats together in a bowl. When the mixture is sticky (add a little water to moisten it if you need to), form it into balls. Coat each ball with oats mixed with some peanut butter and store in a sealable container.

Banana and peanut butter roll-ups
Do you love the banana and peanut butter combo? These roll-ups are great when you’re pinched for time. Just spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter (try to buy the natural kind) on a whole wheat tortilla or pita. Top it with sliced banana and store in a sealable container.

Protein pancakes
This protein-packed meal is easy to take with you. Just mix 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 cup of oatmeal, 2 scoops of protein powder and 1 cup of egg whites together. Mix well and pour into little cakes onto a non-stick-sprayed pre-heated pan. Cook the pancakes until they’re golden brown (about 2-3 minutes), flip and then cook about 2 minutes on the other side. This recipe should make you between 5-7 pancakes.

Tuna with style
Tuna is the stable grab-and-go protein source and this little trick will help you to spice it up a little. Drain a can of tuna and combine it with 1/2 cup kernel corn, chopped mushrooms, carrots, peppers and 1/4 cup of salsa. You can add garlic, onion powder or chili pepper if you like. Keep it chilled if you don’t plan on eating it within a few hours.

Low-fat cheese with an apple
Pair an apple with low-fat cheese or cottage cheese for a great healthy-carb/protein combo.

Crackers or cucumbers and canned salmon
Another high-protein source, salmon is high in essential fatty acid. Mix it with some low-fat mayonnaise and eat it on sliced cucumbers or whole wheat crackers.

Canned fruit and cottage cheese
When you don’t have a refrigerator handy, it’s easy to pack a can of fruit (light syrup variety) and a small container of low-fat cottage cheese. When you’re ready to eat, just dump the can of fruit in the cottage cheese and enjoy.

So there you have it! Fast, easy and on-the-go snack ideas that will help keep you making healthy choices no matter where you are. For more post-bariatric surgery tips and recipes, follow us on Twitter or join our supportive community on Facebook.

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Just face it.
Whether you go to a spa to have it done or do it yourself at home, a facial mask will help clear your pores of dirt and bacteria. Afterwards your face will have a nice glow and getting one done or giving yourself one provides you some alone time where you can concentrate on yourself, your goals and how happy you are to be on the right track.

Give yourself some TLC with a body massage.
Everyday stresses can add up. Relieve some of the tension with a massage — even if it is a short one! Don’t have time to make a massage appointment? Just pick up some massage oils or lotion at your local drugstore and rub it into your neck, shoulders and hands. Every minute of TLC you can give yourself is time well spent!

Scrub-a-dub-dub
You are always on-the-go. Take a load off and give your feet some attention! Put on some relaxing music and scrub away the tension (and rough skin) from your feet with a pumice stone and for some extra foot-love, try soaking them in warm water and sea salt first.

Silky sweet escape
We’re not talking about the sweets you can eat. We’re talking about getting a new set of sheets for you bed! Your bed is where you lay your head every night to rest and it can be the focal point of your bedroom. If you have the money, splurging on a nice; comfortable bedding set can help you feel pampered and ready for a restful night.

Steamy saga
Treat yourself to a warm bath and a good book. Lock the bathroom door (put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on it if you need to!) and spend some time alone with your hero and/or heroine. It could be just what you need.

Turn it up
Treat yourself to a pair of wireless headphones or an MP3 player. Music is a perfect workout partner and a great way to keep the gym fun and interesting.

Fitness fun
Staying on the road to a healthier you doesn’t have to be a chore. Check out some new equipment like workout bands, dumbbells for your home, a well-made jump rope, yoga or fitness videos or a WiiFit.

Taking the time to pamper yourself can help take everyday stress away and help make the rest of your life more enjoyable. For more post-bariatric surgery tips and recipes, follow us on Twitter or join our supportive community on Facebook.

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It will take a few little adjustments to your routine, but you can still enjoy yourself at parites – without falling short of your your post-weight loss surgery regimen. To help you stay on track, we’ve put together this list of basic tips and tricks that will help you host (or attend) parties successfully.

Drink plenty of water pre-party.

Drinking a lot of water will both help you stay hydrated and feel fuller, making the likelihood smaller that you’ll eat too much.

If you must have dessert, pick just one.
The dessert tray is always a tough temptation. But if you feel you must have a taste, check out the dessert table during the party and take time to decide which dessert you want most. Then choose just that dessert. It might seem difficult, but having one treat to look forward to at the end of the party (instead of going berserk on two or three) will give you a greater sense of fulfillment!

Don’t “save” calories.
You might be tempted to “save” calories day but the reality is, skipping meals and/or normal snacks may set you up to eat too much later on. You might end up feeling famished and deprived of nutrients when your party starts and then once the event is in full swing, you could overindulge on foods you may not eat under normal circumstances. Before you bank calories, remember – eat normally and you’ll feel better later.

Wear an outfit you feel good wearing.
Do you have an outfit that you’ve been dying to show off? Maybe you’re not a size 6 yet, but you have worked hard to get to where you are so don’t be shy about putting something nice on and showing off a little. Wearing something that looks good on you will help you feel terrific about your progress – and that helps you stay on track when you feel like indulging a little too much.

Work out if you can!
Exercise releases endorphines, increases circulation and feels good, so make it one of your goals to have a fantastic workout on party-day. Plus, setting a healthy goal and accomplishing it will give you sense of achievement you can carry with your to your social event.

Don’t disregard the veggies.
Better yet, make sure you serve tons of delicious veggies at your party. Or if you’re attending a social event, check out the whereabouts of the vegetable tray as soon as you arrive. When you fill up on raw veggie snacks, you will tend to eat less throughout the event.

Mind your alcohol intake.
Many of us like to have an occasional adult beverage, but remember there are healthier options you can choose to drink as an alternative your usual adult party beverages. Try adding some carbonated water or club soda to your wine, stick to calorie-free or diet mixers and try light beer as opposed to dark. Don’t forget, always enjoy your indulgences in moderation.

Don’t mind the comments.
Don’t let anyone’s negativity affect you. We’ve all heard the comments before: “Really? I can’t believe you won’t have a piece of cake!” You are working hard to feel positive and good about yourself. Don’t let the criticism and comments of others impact your course of action.

Keep things in perspective.
Did go hog wild? No problem. Wake up on a good note the morning after the party and tell yourself, “No worries. Today I’m going pick up where I left off.” Do this and you’ll feel better in no time.

Want more weight loss surgery tips and tricks?

We host post-bariatric surgery support groups in Medford. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. We host sweepstakes, share recipes, inspirational quotes and are a supportive community of people who share their experiences with weight loss surgery.

The post Dos and Don’ts of Post-Bariatric Surgery Party Planning (or Attending) appeared first on Hallmark Health.

Hit the big ones first.
No; not the big sizes, the big stores. Small boutique shops are great for browsing, but if you are looking for beauty at a bargain you should go to the major chain stores first. Big chains have a lot of merchandise to turn over, so they are more likely to have markdowns – especially when seasons are changing.

Save on shipping.
Have you found the perfect dress but it’s sold out in your size? Just ask the salesperson if the size is available in the inventory at a sister store. Many times shipping is complimentary, especially if you ask in-store (versus going online).

Remember the gift cards.
We all have one or two stashed away that we forgot we had. Check out websites like swapagift.com and plasticjungle.com. You could get up to 60 percent of the original value of your gift card back to use on something else. Did you get a gift card to an appliance store that you thought you would never use? It might be enough to buy you a sweet new evening dress.

Don’t throw away your receipts just yet.
Did you know many stores will give you a price adjustment within 14 days if an item goes on sale? So go home, check the store’s Website or call them within the week to see if your purchase has gone on sale.

Be sweet to the salespeople.
Many sales reps make a commission. That means if they make a sale with you, they’ll get paid. Don’t be shy about asking if he or she can set aside a higher-ticket item for you to purchase when it gets marked down. You and the sales rep will benefit from the purchase.

Want more tips and helpful information? Follow us on Twitter or Facebook to get post-weight loss surgery recipes, ideas and inspiration. We’re a supportive community sharing experiences and tips.

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First of all, go to our Facebook page and “Like” us. If you’re on Twitter, follow us there too. We publish all kinds of tips, inspirational quotes, recipes and ideas for our followers. Plus, we’re a community of people who have either undergone or are getting ready to undergo weight loss surgery. Our community knows what you’re going through and is a great place to get support and ideas from your peers.

The new year is a great time to reflect on your previous goals revive, renew and revise them. Here’s a checklist we put together to help you get started down the right path this year, stay on track and stay positive.

1. Breathe and reflect on your goal.
Do you want to lose 20 pounds? 30 pounds? 5 pounds? It’s harder to be comfortable with your goal if you’re anxious or have something on your mind other than what you want to accomplish. Try to be comfortable both physically and emotionally with your goal before moving on to the next step

2. Write it down.
When you write down your goal, it solidifies it in your mind and will help you your body understand that you mean business. Put your goal somewhere you can see it and read it at least once a day.

3. Be gentle with yourself.
It’s easy to be hard on yourself when you fall short of following your plan of action verbatim. You can avoid this by imagining you are talking to your inner self as a small child. Be gentle, firm and most of all, smile.

4. Become inspired.
Look around you. There’s plenty of ideas and activities to inspire you! Maybe you want to lose weight so you can play with your son. Maybe your reason is that you want to travel to Europe comfortably. Or maybe you just want to be able to garden again. If you can’t get outside yet, go online and explore Pinterest.com or visit our Facebook. We post plenty of inspirational quotes and photos to help keep you motivated and inspired throughout the year.

5. Set attainable goals.
Work with your physician to set achievable goals. Set short-term and long-term goals with measurable outcomes.

6. Don’t quit!
Make sure you attend your bariatric support group meetings and look to your family and friends for support. We’re with you every step of the way.

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