The Metabolism Miracle Blog

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January 1, 2010.....New Year, New Blog Tab!

I decided to begin a new blog tab for 2010.  I will keep the 2009 Blog open as it contains so much relevant and important information, much of it based on the questions/concerns/comments actual readers have had as they follow the Metabolism Miracle.  See you all on the 2010 Blog!  Diane

Index of entries of interest from 2009 Blog:

 May 2, 2009:  Fuel it Forward (Fueling intense exercise on Step 1)

May 5, 2009:  Gastric bypass

June 7, 2009:  Brand name neutral and 5x5 foods

June 20, 2009:  Truth in labeling?

July 3, 2009:  Fat loss vs. Weight loss?

July 10, 2009:  5x5 explanation

July 23, 2009:  Water

August 4, 2009:  Feeling great after Day 3, Step 1

August 10, 2009:  Nightmare Pasta

August 19, 2009:  Armchair Exercise

August 21, 2009:  Expected Fat Loss

September 5, 2009:  Take a picture

September 18, 2009:  Book-end eating

September 19, 2009:  Re-evaluation of medications

September 26, 2009:  Excess insulin and link to breast cancer

September 26, 2009:  Using a book review to allow the facts of MM to shine through

October 2, 2009:  Step 1 to Step 2...seamlessly

October 18, 2009:  Online Support Group: http://mmfriends.boardhost.com.

                             Facebook support group:  Metabolism Miracle Network

November 7, 20009:  Thanksgiving Dinner

November 11, 2009:  Cold and Flu Season

November 29, 2009:  Cleaning up Thanksgiving

December 5, 2009:  Make the scale move

December 11, 2009:  Stevia

December 13, 2009:  Splenda

December 26, 2009:  Cleaning up after the holidays

December 29, 2009:  Recapping Step 1 and Step 2

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December 31, 2009....HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

I'd like to take a moment to wish all the friends of The Metabolism Miracle a wonderful 2010!  I wish you the best of health, happiness,  peace, and prosperity in the coming year. Know that I will be here to help you as you continue your MM lifestyle!   Diane

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December 29, 2009....Step 2 is The Bomb!  Enjoy it, don't fear it, believe in it!

I've received several SOS's from readers who will soon be moving on to Step 2.  They have done very well with their first 8 weeks of Step 1 , and seem to be "overthinking" their move to Step 2.

If you find yourself in that position, take a few minutes and read the recaps....they were written to give you "the quick bullet" on Steps 1 and 2.

Basic Recap of Step 1:

Step 1 is a period of carb removal, pancreas/liver rest, and eventual renewal.  The first 3-4 days of this eight -week Step have you feeling a bit "off" as every 5 hours around the clock, your liver is called upon to self-feed with stored sugar.  This happens because your intake of carb foods is purposely set low.... from the moment you begin Step 1 throughout the first 8 weeks..  During this time you feel tired, hungry, cranky, and crave carbs. Once your liver is tapped out of stored sugar, from about day 4 on, those symptoms disappear and you begin to feel wonderful.  Your body has shifted to a fat- burning mode.  Here's the kicker:  In order to keep your body in a fat burning mode, your intake of carb must remain low.  You are encouraged to consume neutral foods liberally, but must keep blatant carbs down.  You have the OPTION of taking a 5 gram net carb food choice at breakfast, lunch, dinner, bedtime, and in the middle of the night.  These 5x5 carbs are not necessary, but they sure are fun.  Try to keep them about 5 hours apart so they don't piggy-back or stack on top of each other and cause your pancreas and liver to go into overdrive again.  The mindset in Step 1 is keep those 5x5 carbs far apart to allow the liver and pancreas to rest.

Step 1 Sample Day:

6AM: Wake up

6:15:  1 gram net carb protein shake before exercise

6:30-7:15: Exercise

8:00: Breakfast (with 5x5 carb)

1:00: Lunch (with 5x5 carb)

4:30: Afternoon snack (handful of nuts and string cheese)

7:00: Dinner (with 5x5 carb)

11:00: Bedtime (ricotta pudding)

middle of the night (with 5x5 carb)

Basic Recap of Step 2:

Step 2 is a period of gentle awakening and reprogramming....a return to dietary normalcy!  Carb was never the enemy....your pancreas' overreaction to carb with excess insulin release was the problem.  The first 3-4 days that you are on Step 2, your liver will begin to refill with sugar stores (glycogen).  Your pancreas will also begin to work again.  When you liver is back to its normal state, it has the ability to self-feed if you go over 5 hours without eating carb.  In Step 2, you will use carb as a friend...a dam...a "medication" to keep the liver from over-releasing stored sugar. 

Step 2 is the opposite of Step 1.  In Step 1 your were keeping carb intake very low and spaced far apart so that the liver wouldn't refill with sugar stores and the pancreas would stay asleep.  In Step 2, you want to focus on getting the right amount of carb into your body to stop the liver from turning on and self-feeding.  So....the self-talk for Step 2 is:

"I must take the appropriate amount of carb at breakfast, lunch, dinner, bedtime, and if I'm awake in the middle of the night...no questions asked, I must take it."

"If any meals are more than 5 hours apart, I will need to take an ADDITIONAL Step 2 carb snack between those distant meals to keep the liver from kicking in between meals."

"If I exercise first thing in themorning, I will take an ADDITIONAL Step 2 carb prior to exercise."

Step 2 Sample Day:

6AM: Wake up

6:15:  Step 2 carb before exercise

6:30-7:15: Exercise

8:00: Breakfast (with Step 2 carb)

1:00: Lunch (with Step 2 carb)

4:30: Afternoon snack (with Step 2 carb as lunch and dinner exceed 5 hours)

7:00: Dinner (with Step 2 carb)

11:00: Bedtime (with Step 2 carb)

Middle of the night (with Step 2 carb)

The Step 2 carbs are keeping the liver from turning on and the pancreas from overworking!  There is no time during the day with a gap of over 5 hours without a Step 2 carb coiming to the rescue!

So there it is.  You may want to cut/paste just this entry and carry it around for a few days as you enter either Step 1 or Step 2 to program the "rules of the road" into your brain.  Before you know it, the Step you are "in" becomes a way of life!  And it works!  All best, Diane (I'm not giving up on the red/green theme yet!)

December 26, 2009....."Latkes, and Cookies, and Drinks....Oh My!"

Whatever your heritage, religion, or beliefs might be, many of us are right smack in the middle of the "holiday season."  Christmas, Hanukkah, Festivus, New Years....holiday dinners, parties, visits, leftovers....this is one of the most difficult times of the year to stay focused on a food-based program.  So, guess what?  I'm going to tell everyone my secret to making it through holiday unscathed......Gather round....shhhhhhhhhhh....ready?  Everyone has dispensation from whatever dietary missteps you may have taken!  Yep, I can do that. (Big smile).

Every year, the week between Christmas Eve and New Years Day is a scheduled "break" in my plan.  Also, scheduled into my life is a "reset" that must take place (ready or not) on January 2.  For 2 weeks, I will return to a clean up of Step 1.  For the next 2 weeks, I will progress to Step 2.  When February arrives, I'm back to Step 3....which is where I will "live" until summer vacation! 

Because we have Met B, a genetic predisposition to excess insulin release, we can't just say..."Okay, it's January 2, the party's over, I'll go back to my Step 2 and all will be fine.  During your time of merriment, your pancreas swung back into overdrive.  YOU MUST RETURN TO STEP 1 NO MATTER WHERE YOU WERE BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS!!! Stay in Step 1 for a full 2 weeks.  (Remember that the first 3 days will feel tired, cranky, hungry, and really crave carbs as your liver must release glycogen stores and your pancreas has to shut down to rest. 

1.  If you were in Step 1 prior to the holidays, you must count the 2 weeks as additional time that will be added to the end of the 8 weeks.

2.  If you were in Step 2 prior to the holidays, the 2 weeks of Step 1 are considered clean -up weeks.  When you return to Step 2, you can pick up your "count" of Step 2 weeks from where you left off before the holidays.  For example, if you were finishing your week 3 of Step 2 when Christmas Eve rolled around, after your 2 week Step 1 clean up, you will be "starting week 4" of Step 2.

3.  If you were in Step 3 prior to the holidays, the 2 weeks of Step 1 are clean- up weeks.  When you finish Step 1, you will need to spend an equal amount of time (2 weeks) in Step 2.  Then, you can happily return to maintenance, none the worse for wear!.

If you follow the directions, you will have no residual to worry about from holiday eating. If you don't return to Step 1 to clean up....you will lose your footing as your pancreas will be out of control again.  Just suck it up, bring your body back into control, and learn how to live a normal life with Met B.  You are not meant to live without ever "going off plan" and making an occasional error.  The trick is to know the way to set things right!  Diane

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December 20, 2009.....Before you "dig out" from the new fallen snow.....

Let's start out by putting a positive spin on the many inches of snow that you might be facing as you look out your window today (or on any snow day this winter).  Doesn't it look absolutely fresh, clean, bright, almost magical?  Think of it as a "Winter Wonderland." (Okay, enough of that, let's get real!)

If you are on Step 1 of The Metabolism Miracle and will be outside doing very physical snow removal...shoveling, sweeping, scraping, sweating, cursing?!?!.....you WILL need to fuel that extra activity.  Your muscles are purposely low on glycogen stores during Step 1, and you will need to "fuel forward." 

1.  About 15 minutes before you venture out to shovel, take one of the following:

     -8 ounces of Gatorade

     -1/2 banana

     -1/2 cup natural applesauce

     -4 glucose tabs

     -8 ounces of nonfat or lowfat milk

2.  After 30 minutes of activity , repeat by choosing another "fuel" for the upcoming 30 minutes.

3.  After another 30 minutes of activity, repeat the fueling for the upcoming 30 minutes

4.  You are taking a set amount of fast acting carbohydrate to give you the energy to fuel the upcoming 30 minute block.

5.  When your activity is over.....try to take in a protein source within 30 minutes of coming inside for the day.  This might be a low carb protein shake, string cheese, peanut butter, or your meal.

By fueling forward, you will have the energy to complete these high energy tasks and end your day without muscle pain or exhaustion and will block cravings or excessive hunger later in the day.

Think I'll sit by the window and watch everyone shoveling, digging, sweeping, sweating........just kidding!   Diane

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December 13, 2009…..You knew I would give equal time to Splenda, didn’t you?

Splenda can be used on the MM program.  I thought I'd give the readers a little background of this non-nutritive sweetener...so that a more informed choice can be made.  The entry from December 11 discusses Stevia.

 Splenda (the brand name for the ingredient sucralose) does not promote itself as “natural.”  It is made through a process that starts with sucrose (natural sugar) and converts it to a no calorie, non-carbohydrate sweetener.  What’s the process?  Three hydrogen-oxygen groups on the sugar molecule are replace with three chlorine atoms.  Chlorine?  Yikes….I don’t want to consume chlorine, right?  Well, chlorine is present naturally in every day foods ranging from lettuce to mushrooms, to table salt!  By adding the chlorine atoms, sucrose converts to sucralose which makes it a stable sweetener that tastes like sugar, but doesn’t act like sugar in the body.  Sucralose is inert…it passes through the body without being absorbed like sugar…so it has no calories, does not turn to blood sugar, does not cause insulin release, and is not recognized like a carbohydrate in the body.  Because it is stable, you can cook and bake with Sucralose as you would with sugar. 

The structure of sucralose is such that 85% of it passes undetected through the body and exits via the feces.  The remaining 15% of sucralose is absorbed and leaves the body via urine. Sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sucrose.  You may have noticed that the granulated product has maltodextrin and dextrose added.  These bulking agents are added to provide bulking and volume that will allow it to be measured equal to table sugar.  They provide so few calories that the FDA allows sucralose to be called a “no calorie sweetener.”

Sucralose has been available in international markets for more than 13 years. The FDA first approved the use of sucralose as a nonnutritive sweetener in 1998 and expanded this approval in 1999. Currently, sucralose is permitted for use in over 80 countries and it has never been required to carry any safety information or warning statements on its labeling.

How safe is Splenda?  There are reportedly over 100 scientific studies conducted over a 20 year period on Sucralose.  The safety data on Splenda has been reviewed by the FDA as well as international health authorities (the World Health Organization) and found to be safe for use by all consumers including children, pregnant women, and people with

Diabetes.  It has never required a safety labeling.

 What about the negative publicity you may have read or heard about Splenda?  Stories about sucralose being similar to pesticides, causing weight gain, and promoting malaborption in the GI tract appear from time to time in the media and especially travel on the internet.  Please, always go to the source when considering “research studies.”  The recent study regarding weight gain was based on 27 rats over a 12 week period. The results of the rat study contraindicated the conclusions of other studies with human subjects. Always check the source of funding for the “study” as the money trail often influences the outcome, portrayal of data, and the “media attention” the results obtain.

 December 11, 2009.....Stevia...Natural-YES.....Without controversy-NO

Many readers ask if the natural sweetener Stevia can be used on the Metabolism Miracle and what to "count" its carb content as within the program's guidelines.  The short answer is that Stevia can be used as a neutral food on the MM.  I decided to give MM readers some history on thenatural sweetener that many people think is "new." 

What follows is a  little history of Stevia as it relates to its introduction into the US food supply.

Stevia:  Stevia is a South American herb that has been used as a sweetener by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay for hundreds of years. The leaves of this small, green Stevia rebaudiana plant contain a sweetener that can be 30 times sweeter than table sugar. The body does not metabolize the sweet glycosides from the stevia leaf or any of its processed forms - so there is no caloric intake. Stevia doesn't adversely affect blood glucose levels or cause insulin release.  So far, so good....but.....I just want everyone to be aware of the history of Stevia in the US as

I think that many people accept something labeled natural as totally safe, without conditions.  In the case of Stevia, it has been used for hundreds of years by the Indians of Paraguay and has been used in Japan, South America, South Korea, China, and the Pacific Rim for over 20 years.

The story of Stevia is much different in the US.  As recently as 1991, Stevia was officially banned as an import in the US. 

In 1991, the  FDA labeled stevia as an "unsafe food additive" and restricted its import. The FDA's stated reason was "toxicological information on stevia is inadequate to demonstrate its safety."This ruling was controversial, as stevia proponents pointed out that this designation violated the FDA's own guidelines under which natural substances used prior to 1958, with no reported adverse effects, should be ' generally recognized as safe ' (GRAS) as long as the substance was being used in the same way and format as prior to 1958.

Fast forward to 1995:

In 1995, the FDA revised its stance to permit stevia to be used as a dietary supplement, although not as a food additive — a position that stevia proponents regard as contradictory because it simultaneously labels stevia as safe and unsafe, depending on how it is sold.  Although unresolved questions remain about whether metabolic processes can produce a mutagen from stevia in animals, let alone in humans, the early studies nevertheless prompted the European Commission in 1999 to ban stevia's use in food in the European Union pending further research. Singapore and Hong Kong have banned it also. More recent data compiled in the safety evaluation released by the World Health Organization 2006 suggests that these policies may be obsolete.

What were the concerns regarding Stevia's use as a food additive?

There have been 3 health concerns regarding Stevia:

Energy Metabolism: Large amounts of stevioside can potentially interfere with absorption of carbohydrates in animals. It can further disrupt the metabolising/conversion of food into energy.

Cancer: Steviol has successfully been converted into a mutagenic compound, which may promote cancer by causing genetic mutation of a cell’s DNA. The catch? Scientists don’t yet know if this will happen in human cells.

Reproductive problems: European scientists cite potential adverse side effects to the male reproductive system. When fed high doses of stevioside for nearly two years, sperm production in male rats was noticeably reduced and the weight of seminal vesciles declined. Likewise, when female hamsters were fed large amounts of a stevioside derivative called steviol, their offspring were found to be fewer and smaller. Again, it should be noted that this has been neither tested nor proven in humans.  Stevia supporters point out that these studies were limited in scope, all performed in the laboratory, and none were proven on humans. 

Stevia's structure does not allow it to brown or carmelize like sucrose, so it is not recommended for cooking items that require these outcomes.  Its sweetness is not exacting, reports show that it is between 10 and 30 times that of sugar, so an exact conversion cannot be given to repleace sugar in recipes. 

In December 2008, the FDA gave a "no objection" approval for GRAS status to Truvia (developed by Cargill and The Coca-Cola Company) and PureVia (developed by PepsiCo and the Whole Earth Sweetener Company, a subsidiary of Merisant), both of which are wholly-derived from the Stevia plant. So, Truvia and PureVia are developed for use in the US by Coke and Pepsi. 

Interesting history, no?  Stevia can be used on the MM as a neutral food. Food for thought.......Diane

December 5, 2009...."Ho Ho How do I make that scale move faster?" 

After Thanksgiving, I received email regarding people feeling as if their weight loss progress had stalled.  I just wanted to set the record straight regarding weight loss for those with Met B.

     -Your fat is not a product of calories in - calories out, it is caused by a genetic hormonal imbalance of the fat gain hormone insulin.

     -You cannot measure your progress on this program with frequent weighing as your weight loss is not set by a formula (such as calories in - calories out), it is set by maintaining hormonal balance. Recommended weight loss checks at 8 week intervals.  Frequent weighing does not give you an accurate picture of progress. 

     -Scale loss on the The Miracle is not a  matter of traditional weight loss (a combination of water loss, muscle loss, AND fat loss).  The loss on The Miracle is 100% FAT LOSS.

     -Fat is very light, fluffy, voluminous tissue.  It is not heavy dense tissue like muscle or heavy in weight like water.  When you lose all fat, you will see a big difference in body size, that will look like much more WEIGHT than the scale measures.  In fact, 1# of fat loss LOOKS like 2# of weight loss. 

     -Those that begin MM with high levels of fat circulating in their blood (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides will burn the excess circulating fat before their body burns the excess fat stores on the body. 

If you are on Step 1 and feel your fat loss has stalled.....these are the possibilities:

1.  Carb intake over and above the maximum of 5 grams net carb at breakfast, lunch, dinner, bedtime, middle of the night (if you are awake)

2.  Carb stacking:  If you take your 5 gram optional carbs too close together (they should be about 5 hours apart), you will stall weight loss.

3.  Inadequate water intake.

4.  Inadequate physical activity.  You need to increase your physical activity over and above your norm a minimum of 30 minutes, 5 times/week.  This doesn't have to be gym quality exercise....but you have to increase muscle movement.

5.  You may need an adjustment in thyroid medication if you have hypothyroidism.

If you have a stall and you are on Step 1 and identify with the above, correct the problemo and move foward

If you are on Step 2 and feel your fat loss has stalled....these are the possibilities:

1.  Carb over-eating

2.  Carb under-eating  (missing your 11-20 at breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime, as well as carb dams needed between meals that exceed 5 hours) will stall weight loss.

3.  Inadequate physical activity...it might be time to "ramp up" your routine by increasing minutes or intensity just a touch

4.  Exercising first thing in the morning without taking an 11-20 gram choice causes fat loss to slow

5.  Inadequate water intake

6.  Increased stress slows fat loss.

7.  Increased pain slows fat loss.

8.  Illness causes a slower fat loss.

If you have a stall and you are on Step 2 and identify with the above, return to Step 1 for 10 days and then restart Step 2 having corrected the problemo.

The beauty of The Metabolism Miracle is that it always works... If you have Met B and follow this program, you can count on the results you deserve.  So....one more time...."Stay off the scale, work the program, and expect the results. "Ho Ho Ho"...Diane

November 29, 2009......."After Thanksgiving"

Well, the long Thanksgiving weekend is coming to a close and I would be remiss if I didn't remind everyone how to correct metabolic mayhem caused by more than two "breaks" in any Step of the Miracle that occur within a one week period.  What????  Remember that excesses or underages in carb (underages can happen in Steps 2 and 3 if you fail to put up a necessary carb dam) are breaks in your program.  If you had  a "break" at Thanksgiving dinner only:

Step 1:  add 3 days to the end of your 8 weeks for this one break.

Step 2 or Step 3:  one break does not necessitate any changes...simply return to Step 2 or 3.

If, however, it was more than just Thanksgiving dinner, you are going to have to rewind, regroup, and settle things down..  Let's say that later Thanksgiving evening (after your Thanksgiving dinner fiasco) you had another piece of apple pie.  Afterward,  you fell asleep without your night snack.  On Friday,  you dipped into the leftover mashed potatoes.  On Saturday, you didn't resist one last helping of stuffing .  Since there were more than 2 breaks in your program:

Step 1:  For each break in the program, add 3 days to the end of the 8 weeks.

Step 2:  Return to Step 1 for 10 days, then resume Step 2 

Step 3:  Return to Step 1 for 10 days, then Step 2 for 10 days, then resume Step 3.

You'll use the same method to "recover" from your Christmas or Hanukkah celebrations in December!  Make sure to clean up after Thanksgiving correctly so you can regain your footing for next month!  Diane 

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November 26, 2009....Yummy Leftover Turkey Soup!

  Homemade Turkey Soup Recipe

Serves 6

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• Splash of white wine
• salt and pepper to taste
• turkey meat, about 2 cups, bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 14 oz. chicken broth

Directions:

1. Put turkey carcass and any leftover turkey bones in large stock pot and cover with water. Add peeled onion.  Add garlic, herbs, cumin, poultry seasoning and white wine or vermouth. Bring to boil, reduce heat and allow to simmer slowly, uncovered, two hours. Strain broth into bowl and reserve.
2. Sauté carrots, celery, onion, and red pepper in olive oil until translucent, about five minutes. Add splash of white wine. Season with salt and pepper. Add reserved broth and purchased chicken broth. Add turkey meat, parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings.  Simmer 30 minutes.  Neutral food....(Step 1, if you eat the carrots, count as a 5x5 for that meal!).

November 26, 2009.....Happy Thanksgiving....

I want to take a moment to say thanks to all of the Miracle readers who have made 2009 the most amazing year of my career.  Thank you for sharing your stories, your questions, your concerns....and for supporting each other in online groups, blogs, and by telling others about the program. 

Quick story; Last week I went for a bike ride along the Delaware River ( near Washington's Crossing  NJ/Pa).  The path cuts through a wooded area, very serene and peaceful.......While I was riding, I began to think about all the things I'm thankful for.  It soon became a mental list.  What I realized was that my list did not contain one material thing.  What makes life worthwhile, what truly matters, what gives the most joy, peace, and happiness is not something that can be purchased or acquired.  All the truly meaningful things, all the really good things in this life....are free.  Sometimes, all you have to do is "open the door" and let them inside.  Remember to think good thoughts, look for the positive, surround yourself with upbeat, supportive people, and take good care of you! 

Take a few minutes today, be quiet with yourself, and think.......give thanks for what you have accomplished this year.  Chances are, if you are reading this blog, you have begun a life-altering program that will give you improved health of mind and body.  Enjoy your new lease on life, appreciate your body as you regain your health, and plan to do amazing things in the future!  Thanks to all of you.....Diane 

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November 20, 2009.....Cold and Flu Season.....

     Just a note about colds, the flu, and The Miracle. 

-- It is always important to stay hydrated on our plan, but especially when you are under the weather.  Regardless of the Step you are on, make sure to have a minimum of 64 ounces of water/decaf fluids.  Remember that broth, vegetable soup prepared with neutral veggies, sugar free gelatin, herbal tea,  water with lemon "counts" toward your fluid requirement.

--Check your over the counter cold/flu medications for hidden carbohydrates.  Many preparations such as NyQuil, Triaminic, etc. contain added sugar.  Be sure to ask your pharmacist or MD for his/her recommendation on sugar- free over the counter recommendations.

--If you are on Steps 2 or 3, being under the weather (as in lying in bed, sick, for 3 days or more) will require 10 days of Step 1 as soon as your are up and around.  Stress hormones rise when you are ill and your pancreas will over-release insulin due to illness.  Make sure to give your metabolism some R&R before returning to your pre-illness MM Step. 

--Wash your hands frequently throughout the day and consider using  hand sanitzer when you can't get to a sink. Never test your blood sugar without first washing your hands or using an alcohol wipe if you are away from a sink.  NEVER lick your finger after testing to stop bleeding!  (come on people, you know you've done this!!!).

--Good news?  when your bloods sugar and insulin are in balance, your immunity is increased!  Here's to fighting off the bugs this cold/flu season....Diane

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November 7, 2009....Gobble, Gobble, Gobble...What to do about Thanksgiving dinner?

     It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is less than 3 weeks away.  Thanksgiving....visions of togetherness, family, friends... thankfulness dominates the day.  And then it occurs to you: "What the heck am I going to eat?  I'm on Step 1 or 2 of the Metabolism Miracle, I'm loving it, my body's digging it.....but what about those mashed potatoes, stuffing/dressing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie....What am I going to do????????"  Take a deep breath and relax as I wouldn't leave you hanging out to dry!  Many people choose to stay on their program for Thanksgiving dinner.  It can be done as  there is likely to be turkey, veggies, salad, cheese plate, nuts, and perhaps the pumpkin pie recipe from last week with light whipped cream (a 5x5 carb for 1/8 of the pie).

 If you want to celebrate your Thanksgiving by sharing in the entire meal experience...you will need to know a few things:

     What happens in a 5 hour block, stays in the 5 hour block.  This means that the food choices you make for the meal cannot be "made up for" by eliminating something before or after that meal.  If you are on Step 1....many of the foods you may choose to have a "taste of" at dinner are not "neutral foods."  You can't make -up for having them by giving something up before or after the meal..  If you are on Step 2, you can't "save up" 11-20 gram carb choices from earlier and later in the day and put all your "carb servings in one basket" at dinner or your blood sugar and insulin equilibrium will be totally off.

     If you are on Step 1.  Please keep the amount of carb containing foods to a minimum....a little taste of the potatoes, dressing, dessert is the way to go while you liberally eat the turkey, veggies, salad, nuts, and a piece of the Crustless Pumpkin Pie.  Get right back on track at the snack or meal after this dinner.  You will probably feel a bit cranky, a little dizzy, and maybe a slight bit nauseous after subjecting your sleeping pancreas/liver to an onslaught of carb.  You will also stir up your cravings a bit so be prepared to have a talk with yourself after dinner saying..."That was nice, but I'm getting right back on track."  You will need to add 3 days to the end of Step 1 to make up for this meal.

     If you are on Step 2.  Thanksgiving dinner can be considered one "slip up" for the week.  If this meal is the only meal or snack that is "off" for the week of Thanksgiving, you will not need to do anything to make up for it.  Use comon sense on portion sizes of the carbohydrate foods.  Be reasonable.  Make sure you have an 11-20 gram carb choice within 5 hours of that dinner!

 I hope this is helpful as you plan for your Thanksgiving holiday meal.  Remember that Met B is part of your life forever and when you learn how to make it fit into your life, it is less of a diet and much more of a lifestyle!   Diane

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October 31, 2009....BOO....Just in time for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and a general autumn vibe....Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe that is legal on ALL Steps of The Metabolism Miracle!

Ahhhhhhh...Autumn.  Time for a quick and easy pumpkin pie recipe that will count as a 5x5 choice on Step 1 and 5 grams of carb on Steps 2 and 3!

Ingredients:

**1 3/4 cups of canned pumpkin

**3 eggs

**3/4 cup Splenda

**1/2 tsp of salt

**1 tsp of ground cinnamon

**1 3/4 tsp of pumpkin pie spice

**3/4 cup of light cream

**Top with light whipped cream before serving (if desired)

Directions:

--Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

-- Liberally coat a pie pan with cooking oil spray and set aside

--In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients together (you can use a wire whisk) until well- blended

--Pour mixuture into the pie pan

--Bake at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes

--To test for doneness, stick a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the pie is done.
--Let cool and chill

--Top with light whipped cream before serving if desired

--Store in refrigerator

1/8 piece of crustless pumpkin pie counts as a 5x5 food on Step 1 or 5 grams of carb for Steps 2 and 3.  Diane

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For the month of November (and on the magazine racks after October 23), The Metabolism Miracle is the cover story on First Magazine for Women.  Melissa Joan Hart (remember Sabrina the Teen Age Witch?) is on the orange cover.  The 4 page story is quite good...although you will find a few discrepancies:

-Although diabetes is very controllable, it is not reversible.

-The pictures of 5 gram food choices (5x5's) are not accurate portion sizes or types

-The program is far more than the first 8 weeks....the first 8 weeks are the beginning, a "clean-up" and "resting" of the pancreas/liver.  From the 8th week on, you are training/reprogramming and ultimately maintaining normal insulin release for a lifetime of good health and permanent weight loss.

I am thankful to have the publicity for the program that a national magazine provides...it is so important to get the message of Metabolism B to the public.  We haven't heard a peep from Oprah regarding bringing Met B and the Metabolism Miracle to her program.  Please continue to send your stories (even cut/paste the story that you previously sent to Oprah).

Oprah's web address for program ideas:

http://www.oprah.com/pluglist.jsp?teamTypeName=TOWS#

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 October 18, 2009....Online support group for the Metabolism Miracle

We outgrew the message board on Low Carb Friends and now have our own message board!  Join others following The Metabolism Miracle lifestyle and share ideas, support, recipes, tips, as well as have a place to let it all out, laugh, cry, etc!  Join in at: http://mmfriends.boardhost.com/.  I hope everyone is doing well.  Stay tuned for ideas on how to handle the upcoming holiday season.  I got word that The Miracle will be featured in First For Women's October 26th issue....more to come.........Diane

 10/24/09: PS:  Have you seen the new and improved "look" of the board?  Special thanks to Susan from the group who took the time and had the expertise to make it look so terrific!

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October 10, 2009.....A very different measure of success and progress for a very different body

The MM lifestyle program is a totally unique way to lose excess fat from the outside and the inside of the body, improve all weight-related lab work, ramp up overall health, and regain quality of life on a 24/7 basis.  It is unique because it had to be unique to work.  Those of us with metabolic syndrome (Met B) have a very different metabolism that affects the way we process carbohydrate AND our own body's self feeding mechanism (liver glycogen release).  Our metabolism is very different from the metabolism of the "textbook body."  So....now that you understand that concept, now that you see the ease of following this lifestyle, now that you've had your labwork re-tested and seen major improvements, now that your medications have been decreased,  now that your clothes fit much differently and you can "see" the difference that 100% fat burning makes in your body's size and shape, now that you have regained your energy, focus, concentration, now that you enjoy every day more, have peace of mind, sleep better, work better, play better, now that you finally understand that your inability to lose weight and keep it off was due to a hormonal imbalance and not a lack of self-control.........

Why is it to darn hard for you to realize this one very easy point.....THE SCALE IS NOT THE PROPER MEASURE OF SUCCESS FOR A PERSON WITH METABOLISM B!  (Are you sensing my intensity here?????  smiling)

One more time with emphasis:

--The MM is a fat loss program that is not based on calories in - calories out = weight.  It is based on balancing the release of the fat gain hormone; insulin.  (Excess insulin causes excess fat on the body (around the middle especially), and in the body (cholesterol, triglycerides).  We don't count calories, we don't count fat grams, we don't count out peanuts!

--The design of the MM is such that Steps 1 and 2 allow for 100% fat burn (both outside and inside the body).  Pretty amazing, huh?

--Calorie based diets trigger WEIGHT loss....a combination of water loss, muscle loss, and fat loss.  The weight loss you would see on the scale is the combination of all 3 factors (two of which (water and muscle weight) you don't want to lose).

--The MM triggers FAT loss....done correctly you will always be in fluid balance and maintain muscle.

--So....when you weigh yourself on a calorie based diet, you are looking at pounds of water, muscle, fat lost.  When you weigh yourself on the MM, you are looking at pounds of fat lost ONLY.

--Don't even try to compare pounds of fat to pounds of fat, muscle, and water.  They are two different "animals."

With that said...Look at your weight at the beginning of every 8 week period of Steps 1 and 2 and don't weigh yourself again for 8 weeks.  Please repeat that sentence over and over until you believe it!  At the end of the 8 weeks, compare your FAT loss with the charts I"ve provided on this Blog, August 21 entry.   

Learn to accept that the scale will never match your metabolism.  You got used to the MM lifestyle, love all the positive changes in your body and mind, love the way you look and feel....now, love the fact that you don't need regular weights on a scale as they won't show the true picture of your success. 

Valid measures of success living the MM lifestyle:

Inches lost from problem areas

Clothes sizes dropped

Look younger and healthier

Labs improved

Medications lowered

Energy and quality of life improved

Focus, concentration, mood improved

Sleep improved

Zest for life improved

Sex life enhanced

Positivity present

Scale?  Out the window!!!!!!!!!     Diane

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October 9, 2009.... www.livinlavidalowcarb.com will show-case The Metabolism Miracle next week (week of

October 12)

Jimmy Moore (see my blog entry from Sept 26, 2009) interviewed me for his Livin La Vida Low Carb podcast and then, afterward, wrote that interesting review of the book that gave all of us a smile.....Here is my contribution to his Blog regarding the facts about the Metabolism Miracle.  PS, As I recall, the interview went very well and is quite informative. (This made the odd book review even more bizarre)

October 2, 2009....Don't overthink the move from Step 1 to Step 2;   Two simple sentences to commit to memory

It is understandable that some people are a little skiddish (okay, downright petrified) to add carbs back into their life after having wonderful success on Step 1.  (In the past on other low carb diets, the reintroduction of carb ALWAYS caused weight regain and people felt doomed to live on a "very low carb" diet for life) .  The Metabolism Miracle is the first and only lifestyle program that has all the bases of Met B covered.  After an 8 week "rest and rehab" for your overworked pancreas/liver, Step 2 actually programs this team to work normally together.  There will be continued fat loss at the proper rate for your body in Step 2 just as there was in Step 1! 

To determine appropriate fat loss for the first 8 weeks of Step 2, go to the Blog entry from August 21.  When you begin Step 2, find your gender, height, and today's weight on the chart.  You will find the right target range of FAT loss at the end of the next 8 week period.  Remember, 10 pounds of fat loss looks, feels, and acts like a 20# weight loss on standard diets.

Now, those 2 sentences to make Step 2 a breeze:

1.  "I must have an 11-20g net carb choice at my breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime" (everyday,  regardless of the time of these meals and bedtime).

2.  "If any meals are more than 5 hours apart, I will put an ADDITIONAL 11-20g net carb choice at the snack between those meals."

Other tips:

***Have your first meal (with 11-20g net carb) within one hour of wakeup for that day and your bedtime snack (11-20 g net carb)within one hour of bedtime.

***Don't exercise first thing in the morning without first having your 11-20 g net carb choice

***If you are awake in the middle of the night, have one 11-20 g carb choice.

***Neutral foods for Step 1 are neutral foods for Step 2 

***The stacking rule applies to Step 1, not Step 2.  In Step 2 you are using your 11-20 gram net carb choices to work to your advantage in keeping your blood sugar smooth and easy all day long.

Diane

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September 26, 2009....A "Must Read" to learn everything about the Metabolism Miracle, and maybe have a chuckle, too!

When you prominently use such a strong superlative word like "miracle" within the title of a diet book, then you had better be confident in your ability to deliver the goods. Oh Jimmy....When a person's entire life is filled with uncontrollable weight gain despite dieting and exercise, depression/anxiety, inability to sleep, constant fatigue, irritability, uncontrollable carb cravings, blurry vision, dizziness, inability to focus and concentrate, as well as declining health with rising blood pressure, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar all of which are causing increased dependence on medication......and a lifestyle program can change ALL of that for you......it is a miracle!  Registered dietitian Diane Kress has done her homework and identified a unique issue that inflicts upwards of 60 percent of the population and many of them don't even know it. It's called Metabolism B and requires a way of eating that isn't exactly embraced by the nutritional gatekeepers of our day.

How many of us have gone on diet after diet for years without ever keeping off any weight that has been lost? I've done it way too many times to count, but Kress explains that for some people it may not be our fault that we have struggled so much. And the unsightly belly fat is the worst all the while walking around too tired to exercise, hungry almost constantly, and wondering if this is the best life has to offer you. It's a depressing state that nobody should endure.

People with Metabolism B are different because we (yes, I'm one of them!) cannot eat an excessive amount of carbohydrate without packing on the pounds. Kress is also a Met B, so she understands the struggle just like we do and has developed an effective plan for combatting this once and for all. It's not calories in, calories out, it's not eating disgusting low-fat and fat-free foods why would a reduced fat milk, cheese, yogurt be disgusting, Jimmy?  The book promotes low fat, not fat free, right? , and it most certainly is not mustering up the willpower. There's a three-step process outlined in this book that give you all the tools you need to lose weight and keep it off for good!

Basically, you go through eight weeks of what Kress calls "Carb Rehab" as a means for giving your pancreas a chance to slow down on insulin production, heal and detoxify your liver, and allow fat cells to begin shrinking. You do this through an intense low-carbohydrate nutritional plan The majority of people who follow MM do not see Step 1 as an intense low carb nutritional plan.  There is no cap on many carb- containing foods such as most vegetables, nuts, nut butters, cheeses, proteins.  Heck, there is even the option of adding a low carb food choice like low carb bread, wraps, milk, juice, shakes, muffins, yogurt at each meal DURING Step 1 which will produce weight loss, improved health markers with your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, and energy like you've never experienced before! Sample menus and food ideas are included in the book.

My only concern with what Kress shares in this book is her insistence on using "lean" meats, egg whites, low-fat cheese, and such.Yes, Jimmy, I do recommend that while a person is on a fat- burning plan that they look to decrease the percentage of fat they ingest in high-fat containing foods.  Why would a person desperate to burn exogenous fat (the outside fat like the roll around the middle) and endogenous fat (like the LDL cholesterol that will block arteries) focus on consuming full fat cheese that will cause his body to spend time burning the fat in the cheese before it gets to consuming the excess fat on and in his body?   It's almost as if the registered dietitian in her The registered dieitian in me makes me an expert on medical nutrition therapy, Jimmy.  Being a registered dietitian is not a negative, Jimmy. I’ve been an RD for almost 30 years specializing in weight reduction and diabetes management.…My years of work specializing in medical nutrition therapy gave me the patient base, knowledge base, and research base to develop this program. Don’t hate!   won't allow her to see there are health benefits to consuming the fats contained in these foods as a regular part of the low-carb regimen for people with Met B.What are the health benefits to drinking whole milk over low fat milk or 4% fat cottage cheese over 2% fat cottage cheese?   While Kress appreciates the work people like Dr. Atkins have done to promote low-carb principles to the public, she believes their ideas are antiquated She said that Dr. Atkins was ahead of his time in identifying metabolic syndrome and its relation to carbohydrates.  I also said that because he was formulating his diet plan 30 years ago, he didn't have the benefit of Nutrition Facts (to know the exact carb content of foods, especially packaged foods) or the knowledge of saturated, unsaturated, monounsaturated fats.  Thirty years ago was a long, long time ago in terms of research and development.  Atkins is the forefather of low carb dieting, but did not have the benefit of the 30 years of research that have transpired since since there has been so much research to come out in recent years. Unfortunately, I think she cherry picks It is reality, Jimmy.  There is science to the concept that the body will preferentially consume the fat consumed from food before it moves on to body fat when a person is in a fat burning mode.  the science that makes her case regarding saturated fat and isn't acknowledging the wealth of fresh new data that is out there. I am and always will be deep in the research of medical nutrition, Jimmy.  Please forward the wealth of information supporting eating full fat, high saturated fat foods preferentially to lower fat items on a fat burning plan.

The second part of the plan includes an eight-week or more "Transition...To Carbs" where "healthy carbohydrates" are added back into the diet to "gently restart your rested pancreas and liver." This was an odd change of gears since Kress has already identified that over half of people are walking around with an aversion to carbs. Far from an aversion to carbs, over half the population of overweight people have an addiction to carb caused by excess insulin release...their body over reacts to rises in blood sugar with excess insulin ( the fat gain hormone).  (Author strongly suggests that you read the book again).  So what exactly is "healthy" about them that you need to put them back into your diet again? What is healthy about carbohydrate?  Vitamins, minerals, fiber, and the #1 preferred fuel source for the brain. She says the carbs aren't the culprit, Carbohydrate is not the culprit.  The  person with uncontrolled Metabolism B's over-reaction to carb is the culprit.  but it's their Met B condition that needed to get back into balance again. Eating the "low-impact carbohydrate" (I'll assume is low-glycemic load)(Again, the author strongly suggests you reread the book). is what will make that happen. But I think this is a recipe for falling prey to the carb creep that so often befuddles low-carb dieters. In a nutshell: The Metabolism Miracle:  Over 45% of people who struggle with their weight have an alternate metabolism coined Metabolism B.  This metabolism is genetic and causes the body to over-release the fat gain hormone insulin in response to rises in blood sugar.  Two things cause blood sugar to rise:  carbohydrate intake and the body's own release of sugar from the liver .  How does the miracle work ?:  There are 2 main Steps to the program.  Step 1 lasts eight weeks.  During this time, lean protein, heart healthy fat, most veggies, and even some low carb foods are just fine.  This is because these foods don't over- tax the resting pancreas.  Blatant carb is temporarily removed to allow the over- worked pancreas/liver to rest and rehabilitate.  After these organs are rested, it's time to reintroduce the nutrient carbohydrate.  As most people already know, carb is the preferred fuel for the human body and especially the brain.  Because the person with Met B has a tendency toward an over-reactive pancreas, carbohydrate is reintroduced with regard to type of carb, correct amount of carb, and proper timing of carb allowing the pancreas/liver to react reasonably and allow the person with Met B to continue to lose weight even as they eat this delicious and nutritious food type.

The final phase is the "Lifetime Weight Maintenance" plan that adds even MORE carbohydrates into the diet along with the low-fat foods I previously mentioned as well as a few "treats" here and there. This is where you are supposed to live for the rest of your life, but how does this differ from any other high-carb, low-fat plan Step 3 is more of a lifestyle than a diet.  It  is not a high carb plan.  (At this point, the author strongly urges Jimmy to reread the book, after a night's sleep, maybe twice).  Step 3 is actually an individualized meal plan with a carb target  based on the reader's gender, height, and the weight they desire to maintain.  Carb intake is suggested to be predominantly low glycemic index, in the person's individual target range, consumed throughout the day methodically to control the liver's release of blood sugar.    out there? What about people like me who are so sensitive to carbohydrate that they cannot tolerate more than 30-50g carbs daily? The author suggests that Jimmy rereads the book AND follows the Metabolism Miracle plan. That is what I would suggest to you as there is no reason your body cannot handle more than 30-50 grams of carb today.  When a person takes in this very limited amount of carb on a daily basis long-term, they may be ingesting 30-50 grams/day by mouth, but their liver is adding the rest from hepatic glycogen release.  This is why the science behind the Metabolism Miracle is so important!  How does plan help lose weight and then keep it off forever adding back in carbohydrate no matter what their "impact" is? (Oh my)

As much I love the concept of Metabolism B and the low-carb solution that it offers people who are afflicted by it, I think Kress is still somewhat stuck on the idea that fat is somehow bad for you For the record Diane Kress sees fat as a necessary nutrient much the same as carbohydrate and protein are essential nutrients. and carbohydrates play a necessary role in metabolism.For the record, Diane Kress knows that carbohydrates play a necessary role in metabolism.  Neither is true and that's unfortunate. Right, right. Her insistence on things like eating every few hours, drinking lots of water, exercising 30 minutes a day for five days a week, and other typical dogmatic diet dictates The program is most effective for permanent weight loss when a person spaces carb intake out (to decrease liver release of glycogen), drinking adequate fluid allows the body to rid itself of the end products of fat burning (very healthy for the kidneys), and physical activity of 30 minutes/day minimum will help decrease blood sugar and blood pressure, increase muscle sparing, improve bone density, decrease stress..yep, I certainly do recommend exercise….)shows she still hasn't caught on to what the latest studies are showing and is relying on her nutritional education to still guide her.  The program is based on the most current research, the program has been successful with close to 4000 patients at my Center and is now available to the entire world!  And, yes, Jimmy....I do rely on my nutrition education and almost 30 years as a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator.  I think she is on to something good, but it's not quite all the way there yet.

Thank you Jimmy Moore for giving me the tremendous opportunity to tell the merits and truths of The Metabolism Miracle by simply answering the claims you made in your review.  This was a perfect way to get the message of The Metabolism Miracle to the public in a clear, concise manner.

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September 26, 2009....Excess insulin and the possible link to breast cancer

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September 19, 2009.....As you lose weight, regain blood sugar equilibrium, and experience much improved health of mind and body, your medications and their doses may need to be re-evaluated!

As with any diet/weight loss program, you should check with your physician before beginning the Metabolism Miracle.  Many people with Met B start the program heavily medicated for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, cholesterol, thyroid.  As they lose weight and get healthier, there is an excellent chance they will require less medications.  Remember to consult with your phsyician along the way as you are no longer medicating a body with as much fat and health complications.

September 18, 2009....."The Bookends"....Eating first thing in the morning and last thing in the evening!

I wanted to touch base with readers about the importance of eating appropriately within one hour of wake-up and as close as possible to your bedtime.  This is VERY important on Steps 2 and 3 when the liver and muscles are refilled with glycogen stores.  (I know that everyone is aware of the 5 hour time frame....when more than 5 hours pass without eating, your liver will automatically release glycogen stores to stabilize blood sugar and provide energy for all your body's functions.

The purpose of the "bookend" eating is to shorten the liver's intervention from its self feeding mechanism.  For the pourposes of illustration, I'm going to use a liver release of 45-65 grams of carb for 5 hours.

Dinner at 6:00 PM

Bedtime at 11:00 PM

Wake-up the next morning at 8:00 AM

Breakfast at 10:00AM

Remembering the 5 hour rule:  If you did not have a snack before bed....your liver would begin to self feed at 11:30 PM and again at 4:30 AM.  If you didn't have something to eat in the morning, and had a bit to eat at 10AM, you would have been liver-fed at about 9:30 AM, too.

Eating incorrectly for Met B:

Dinner at 6:00PM (11-20 grams carb)

Liver  will feed at about 11PM (approx. 45-65 grams carb)

Liver will feed at about 4 AM (approx. 45-65 grams carb)

Wake up at 8:00AM but no food

Liver will feed at 9:00AM (approx 45-65 grams carb)

10:00AM breakfast (11-20 grams carb)

Total = approximately 195 grams carb

When you eat the Metabolism Miracle Way:

Dinner at 6:00PM (11-20 grams carb)

Snack at 11:00PM (11-20 grams carb)

Liver feed at 4:00 AM (45-65 grams carb)

Wake up at 8:00AM and have something ASAP (11-20 grams carb)

Total = approximately 100 grams carb

Remember that those of us with Met B overprocess carbohydrate.  Can you imagine overprocessing carb that you didn't even eat?  This is one of the reasons that all other low carbohydrate diets fail.  There is never attention paid to the 5 hour rule.  Now, with the MM, we are all aware of the influence of what food does to our body, and what ommission of food does to our body.  For the first time, you are in control!  Diane

PS.....When I awaken in the middle of the night, I always try to take an appropriate snack (depending on the Step of the Miracle you are "on" to cut down on my liver's need to intervene while I sleep!!!!!!  Diane

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September 13, 2009.....Woman's World Magazine....the bright yellow cover!

If you are out and about this week, stop by your supermarket's check- out line or newsstand and look for the bright yellow cover of the September 14th Woman's World Magazine.  The "biggest smile in the world" belongs to a patient who does a wonderful job living the MM way...Danielle Cavalli....she's on the cover!  Inside is a 2 page article featuring another long time MM follower...Diana Weifert.  The story is very well done, the pictures speak for themselves, and I am thrilled with the response!  Take a peek....you are guaranteed to smile!  Diane 

PS:  The grassroots campaign to bring the Metabolism Miracle to Oprah continues....see the September 8 post below and thank you in advance for forwarding your success stories in regard to weight loss, improved health, well being, and energy!  Onward and upward!  Diane

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September 8, 2009....It's Oprah Time!

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 September 5, 2009......Get the picture.....Love life!

 Happy Labor Day Weekend!  Two different thoughts came to my mind this week, and I wanted to share them with those beginning The Miracle and those moving into their next 8 weeks.  As you know, this program enables and concentrates on fat loss.  If you are getting physical activity (a minimum of 30 minutes, 5 days/week) and drinking adequate water/decaf fluid (over 64 ounces/day)....your weight loss will consist of fat loss only!  Fat is big, light, voluminous tissue and its loss makes a big visual effect.  I have found that for some readers, their mind's "eye" doesn't correctly reflect the very visual difference in their body's shape and size.  People sometimes still "see" themselves "fatter" than they truly are.  It is a great idea to take a picture of yourself in a particular outfit at the start of each 8 week period.  The mind can't override objective proof!  As you look at the pictures from every 8 weeks, you will appreciate all the wonderful progress you've made on the outside.  Your labwork will show you your wonderful progress on the inside.  Get the picture, you'll be glad you did!

My second thought....Many people with uncontrolled Met B are accustomed to trying to minimize their larger middle with larger sized tops/shirts. Uncontrolled insulin has caused their waist and middle to consistently increase over the years.  They have had to purchase pants, jeans, shorts in larger sizes to accomodate their middle.  As your program and new lifestyle progresses, you will lose fat and enable noticeable, permanent changes to your body.  The next time you go to buy clothes, don't reach for the same old size!  Don't hide under loose, flowing tops.....get used to the reality that there is no longer a reason to hide or cover-up.  It might take a while for your mind's eye to catch up with your body...to feel comfortable being a smaller size,  to actually love the way you look and feel.....to trust that it will last.  I have a tip that might intitially sound silly, but I promise it works:  Every single day, look at yourself in the mirror.  Look into your own eyes and tell yourself out loud..."I am making great decisions regarding my health and weight .  My program is working.   I look great, I feel great.  I love the person I am becoming and I will continue to work toward a healthy, happy, energetic, positive lifestyle".  Think positively, dress to match your new body, get yourself to acknowledge all the great things you are accomplishing.  In short....love yourself/love your life!

Diane

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 August 28, 2009....  Oh-so-good 5x5.....

Great idea to get the flavor of "fruit" without adding carbs.  Have you tried the Greek yogurts 'Fage' or 'Chobani'?   I recommend the nonfat or low fat variety.  Here's the heavenly part....add a heaping spoonful of '

'Walden Farms' blueberry or strawberry fruit spread that contains zero carbs!  Yep....you can have 5 ounces of either Greek yogurt with a dollop of fruit spread mixed in....yummy! The yogurt is your 5x5, the fruit spread is free!  you can also use the fruit spread on low carb toast with natural peanut butter, with your cottage cheese, or with ricotta cheese.  Who says nothing in life is free?  Diane

August 23, 2009....Actual Reader question regarding potential weight loss for a "B" who needs internal fat erased (cholesterol/triglycerides/resultant high blood pressure) but does not desire or need much weight loss:

Q:  I have a question that I am hoping you will address in your blog.  My husband and I are starting the Metabolism Miracle.  I have about 120 pounds to lose.  However, my husband (who is on medication for high blood pressure and high cholesterol and has a family history of diabetes) is already at a healthy, normal weight.  Are there any modifications that he should make to the program?  

A: As you know, Metabolism B is progressive and is always driven by a hormonal imbalance of the fat gain hormone, insulin.  Some people initially manifest excess fat on the outside of their body in visible belly fat, love handles, back fat.  Others initially manifest their increased fat internally inside their blood vessels in the form of elevated cholesterol, triglycerides, and high blood pressure from these conditions.  It appears as if you and your hubby are perfect case studies for the two places fat accumlates for those with uncontrolled Met B.    Over time, you would both have excess fat deposits "inside and outside". 

Your email is a timely one because the BLOG entry dated August 21, shows exactly what each of you can expect with your weight (100% fat loss) after every 8 weeks of The Metabolism Miracle.  Your husband would locate (on the male chart) his height and weight at the start of the first 8 weeks.  He will most likely find that he can expect a 3-5# fat loss.  You would do the same (on the female chart) and find that you should expect a 14-21# fat loss.  Same program done correctly for both of you for the same length of time.  The more fat your body has to lose on the outside, the more fat weight you will lose every 8 weeks.

For both of you, the program always begins with fat and sugar burning on the "inside."If you start The Miracle with very high cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and blood sugar, the program will rectify those problems internally first, then move on to outside fat burning.  So, your husband's objective will be taken care of very early on in the program.  If you have lower lipids and glucose, your program will get to outside fat burning quicker and leave you with much less fat on the outside at the end of every 8 weeks.  Pretty amazing, huh?

As for your "leaner" husband.  He can feel free to 'pump up the volume' on his intake of lean protein, heart healthy fat, neutral veggies.  He should keep his 5x5 foods to an option at meals, bedtime, middle of the night.  He can 'go to town' on neutral foods.

Questions like this one show the dramatic difference between The Metabolism Miracle and all other diets. This isn't about losing "weight" in the form of water, muscle, fat.....it is about losing the fat that is plaguing your health and body image!  Diane

August 23, 2009....Coconut Flour

Coconut flour is an alternate "flour" that comes in handy with low carb baking and cooking.  It is high in fiber, gluten free, and a good source of protein.

Coconut Flour is made from fresh coconut meat. The meat is dried and defatted and then finely ground into a powder very similar in consistency to wheat flour.

Coconut Flour is a low – carb flour. It is ideal for baking 

It is a good source of protein having as much protein as wheat flour but it contains no gluten.  Coconut Flour is high in fiber. It contains 61% fiber which is the highest percentage of dietary fiber found in any flour (wheat bran is 27% fiber). Coconut flour contains 4 times as much fiber as soy flour.

 It is ideal for those who follow The Metabolism Miracle.. You will use 15-25% in place of other flours in most standard recipes (in essence, you are cutting the amount of coconut flour to 1/4 the amount of wheat flour. A variety of

The following is a blueberry muffin recipe that a reader sent using coconut flour.  Note that the uncooked batter will look very runny.  Each muffin contains 4 grams of net carb and will be considered a 5x5 food choice:

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS....Makes 6 muffins   These really are legal on Step 1!  There are 1.5 gram of carb coming from the blueberries in 1 muffin.  Enjoy!

3 eggs
2 Tblsp butter, melted
2 Tblsp half and half
3 Tblsp splenda
2 Tblsp water
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp vanilla
1/8 tsp almond extract
¼ cup sifted coconut flour
3/8 tsp baking powder
½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries, dry if rinsed

Blend together eggs, butter, half and half, water, splenda, salt, vanilla and almond extract. Combine flour with baking powder and thoroughly mix into batter until there are no lumps. Stir in blueberries. Pour batter into greased or lined muffin cups. Bake at 400º F (205º C) for 16-18 minutes.

Notes: Bob's Red mill coconut flour is available in some stores, I got mine online from amazon - Aloha Nu, which gives these nutritionals. Don't be worried if the batter seems runny, coconut flour absorbs a huge amount of liquid and it will be fine after baking. (It also smells fabulous but there is no coconut flavor in the finished muffins.)

Nutrional data per muffin: NET CARBS 4 g
1 muffin = 127 calories
fat = 8 g (5 g sat, no trans)
chol = 118 mg
sod = 200 mg
Total carb = 8 g
dietary fiber = 4 g
sugars = 3 g
prot = 5 g

August 21, 2009....Expected FAT loss after eight weeks on Steps 1 or 2 of The Metabolism Miracle

     Many readers are very close to completing their first 8 weeks on Step 1 of the Miracle.  I hope (wink) that you have been staying off the scale for the 8 week period.  The reason frequent weighing is not recommended is that those of us with Met B following this program are not following a mathematical 'calories in - calories out' program.  If we had "textbook" metabolism and could follow a calorie based diet and get results, regular weighing would not be a problem.  Our bodies, on the other hand, don't respond to other programs.  The Metabolism Miracle is designed to rest and rehab and then train the pancreas/liver combo to work normally....we never did have a calorie problem, we had a hormonal imbalance.  As such, we strive to keep our pancreas "happy and healthy" and respond to normal amounts of insulin release to enable us to handle carbohydrate appropriately.  It's not a matter of calories in and out, it's a matter of hormonal balance and equilibrium.  Instead of weight loss that appears like a descending staircase, our fat loss appears like a curlicue....so, to weigh regularly will never "make sense" to you.  It's far better to set a time period (8 weeks) and check your total fat loss at the end of the 8 week period.  Because this program is based on physiology and real science, the results are very regular.  The tables you will find below are not based on 1-2# weight loss/week....they are the real fat loss expectations for people with Met B who have followed the prior 8 weeks of either Step 1 or Step 2 with 85% accuracy. 

     With that said, our scale loss is not typical weight loss (that is composed of water weight, muscle, AND fat)....loss on The Metabolism Miracle is 100% FAT LOSS.

Initially, it's hard to grasp the significance of this.  In typical weight loss, the pounds on the scale are actually skewed because they also "show" the heavy loss of valuable water and muscle.  In Met B loss on this Miracle, the pounds registered on the scale is 100% fat.  Fat is light and very "large" tissue which means when we lose it, we are visibly much, much "smaller!".  You will look, feel, and respond as if you've lost more "weight" because the only tissue you are losing is the fat that you desire to lose.  This is why MM's (love that term!) look so healthy, vibrant, young, and lean as they lose weight.  As you know, I prefer to use clothes size and the tape measure to the scale as a person with Met B.  If you want to use the scale, the following table (separate for men and women) will give you a guide as to the amount of fat that should have disappeared over 8 weeks.  And you are not mistaken.....you do look like you've lost twice the weight that you did.  It's fat loss, not weight loss!  10# of 100% fat loss will appear like a 20# weight loss.....and your labwork will improve as if you've had twice the loss, too!

The same tables apply to Step 1 and Step 2.  There is no difference in fat burning once the panceas/liver are rested.  All you need to is document your weight at the beginning of an 8 week period, find your gender, height, and starting weight on the chart.....and you will quickly find the amount of fat tissue that should have burned during the preceding 8 weeks! 

Fat Loss Expectations Every 8 weeks, Step 1 or Step 2:

(#’s of fat loss will have twice the visual appearance as “weight loss”)

       WOMEN

Weight at the START of the 8 week period

4’10”                       90-130#  = 3-5# fat loss

                                130-170 = 6-13# fat loss

                                170-210 = 14-21# fat loss

                                210-250 = 22-29# fat loss

4’11”                       95-135# = 3-5# fat loss

                                135-175# = 6-13# fat loss

                                175-215# = 14-21# fat loss

                                215-255# =  22-29# fat los

5’0”                         100-140# = 3-5# fat loss

                                140-180# = 6-13# fat loss

                                180-220# = 14-21# fat loss

                                220-260# = 22-29# fat loss

5’1”                        105-145# = 3-5# fat loss

                               145-185# = 6-13# fat loss

                               185-225# = 14-21# fat loss

                               225-265# = 22-29# fat loss

5’2”                         110-150# = 3-5# fat loss

                                150-190# = 6-13# fat loss

                                190-230# = 14-21# fat loss

                                230-270# = 22-29# fat loss

5’3”                         115-155# = 3-5# fat loss

                                155-195# = 6-13# fat loss

                                195-235# = 14-21# fat loss

                                235-275# = 22-29# fat loss

5’4”                         120-160# = 3-5# fat loss

                                160-200# = 6-13# fat loss

                                200-240# = 14-21# fat loss

                                240-280# = 22-29# fat loss

5’5”                          125-165# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 165-205# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 205-245# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 245-285# = 22-29# fat loss

5’6”                          130-170# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 170-210# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 210-250# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 250-290# = 22-29# fat loss

5’7”                         135-175# = 3-5# fat loss

                                175-215# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 215-255# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 255-295# = 22-29# fat loss

5’8”                         140-180# = 3-5# fat loss

                                180-220# = 6-13# fat loss

                                220-260# = 14-21# fat loss

                                260-300# = 22-29# fat loss

5’9”                         145-185# = 3-5# fat loss

                                185-225# = 6-13# fat loss

                                225-265# = 14-21# fat loss

                                265-305# = 22-29# fat loss

5’10”                       150-190# = 3-5# fat loss

                                190-230# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 230-270# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 270-310# = 22-29# fat loss

5’11”                       155-195# = 3-5# fat loss

                                195-235# = 6-13# fat loss

                                235-275# = 14-21# fat loss

                                275-315# = 22-29# fat loss

6’0”                          160-200# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 200-240# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 240-280# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 280-320# = 22-29# fat loss

Fat Loss Expectations Every 8 weeks, Step 1 or Step 2:

(#’s of fat loss will have twice the visual appearance as “weight loss”)

MEN

Weight at the START of the 8 week period

5’0”                         106-146# = 3-5# fat loss

        146-186# = 6-13# fat loss

                                186-226# = 14-21# fat loss

                                226-266# = 22-29# fat loss

5’1”                        112-152# = 3-5# fat loss

                               152-192# = 6-13# fat loss

                               192-232# = 14-21# fat loss

                                232-272# = 22-29# fat loss

5’2”                         118-158# = 3-5# fat loss

                                158-198# = 6-13# fat loss

                                198-238# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 238-278# = 22-29# fat loss

5’3”                         124-164# = 3-5# fat loss

                                164-204# = 6-13# fat loss

                                204-244# = 14-21# fat loss

                                244-284# = 22-29# fat loss

5’4”                         130-170# = 3-5# fat loss

                                170-210# = 6-13# fat loss

                                210-250# = 14-21# fat loss

                                250-290# = 22-29# fat loss

5’5”                          136-176# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 176-216# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 216-256# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 256-296# = 22-29# fat loss

5’6”                          142-182# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 182-222# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 222-262# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 262-302# = 22-29# fat loss

5’7”                         148-188# = 3-5# fat loss

                                188-228# = 6-13# fat loss

                                228-268# = 14-21# fat loss

                                268-308# = 22-29# fat loss

5’8”                         154-194# = 3-5# fat loss

                                194-234# = 6-13# fat loss

                                234-274# = 14-21# fat loss

                                274-314# = 22-29# fat loss

5’9”                         160-200# = 3-5# fat loss

                                2005-240# = 6-13# fat loss

                                240-280# = 14-21# fat loss

                                280-320# = 22-29# fat loss

5’10”                       166-206# = 3-5# fat loss

                                206-246# = 6-13# fat loss

                                246-286# = 14-21# fat loss

                                286-326# = 22-29# fat loss

5’11”                       172-212# = 3-5# fat loss

                                212-252# = 6-13# fat loss

                                252-292# = 14-21# fat loss

                                292-332# = 22-29# fat loss

6’0”                          178-218# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 218-258# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 258-298# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 298-338# = 22-29# fat loss

6’1”                          184-224# = 3-5# fat loss

                                 224 -264# = 6-13# fat loss

                                 264-304# = 14-21# fat loss

                                 304-344# = 22-29# fat loss

6’2”                           190-230# = 3-5# fat loss

                                  230-270# = 6-13# fat loss

                                  270-310 = 14-21# fat loss

                                  210-350# = 22-29# fat loss

6’3”                            196-236# = 3-5# fat loss

                                   236-276# = 6-13# fat loss

                                   276-316# = 14-21# fat loss

                                   316-356# =  22-29# fat loss

6’4”                             202-242# = 3-5# fat loss

                                    242-282# -= 6-13# fat loss

                                    282-322# = 14-21# fat loss

                                    322-363# = 22=29# fat loss

6’5”                             208-248# = 3-5# fat loss

                                    248-288# = 6-13# fat loss

                                    288-328# = 14-21# fat loss

                                    328-368# = 22=29# fat loss

6’6”                             214-254# = 3-5# fat loss

                                    254-294# = 6-13# fat loss

                                    294-334# = 14-21# fat loss

                                    334-374# = 22-29# fat loss

August 19, 2009....Armchair/Wheelchair Exercise; Move that body to burn that fat (and save the muscle!)

     ^{Today I received an email from a reader who is wheel chair bound.  She wondered if failure to exercise while following The Metabolism Miracle would lead to loss of valuable muscle tissue. As you know, those with Met B use regular physical activity to target fat burn and maintain muscle tissue.  The body doesn't realize that you are in a wheel chair or unable to walk, bike, or swim.  All your body knows is that un-activated muscle looks as good as fat for a fuel source.  In order to clearly differentiate the tissues, burn fat tissue, and spare muscle.....EVERYONE must move their muscles a minimum of 30 minutes, 5 times/week.  (This activity should be over and above your normal activity for the day).}

^{I'd like to recommend the following website for great exercise ideas for those who must exercise in a chair or wheel chair: www.iposture.com/exercise_armchair.php    The site shows some quality exercises using resistance bands and balls.} 

    ^{Back to the wheel chair bound emailer...she got back to me with the type of activity she would be doing on a daily basis.... .  She turned on 70's Classic Rock and for the first time, danced in her wheelchair!  How cool is that?  She reached, moved, groved and told me she got more activity today than she has in years!  Diane}

 August 10, 2009......."Nightmare" Pasta

I have always taught my patients, and now my readers,  how to read a food label appropriately for Metabolism B.  The formula we are using is the accurate formula for ascertaining "net carb grams."  Unfortunately, there is no consensus on what formula should be used for net carb, and some companies have taken to making their products appear much lower in carbohydrate than they actually are by subtracting BOTH fiber grams and sugar alcohol grams from total carb grams.  Let me show you an example of the scam:

Total carb grams:  14 grams

Dietary fiber grams:  3 grams

Sugar alcohol grams: 4 grams

Sugar: 2 grams

Other carb grams: 5 grams

We know that the true net carb for this product is 11 grams as 14 grams of total carb - 3 grams of dietary fiber = 11 grams net carb. 

The scammers would list net carb as 7 grams!  They would take 14 grams of total carb-3 grams of dietary fiber - 4 grams of sugar alcohol and list the net carb as 7 instead of 11! 

As if this isn't bad enough.....and it really does make my blood boil.......there is another scam going on with a pasta product that everyone on The Metabolism Miracle needs to be aware of:

Now.......there are two meaningless terms being used on this pasta label....."digestible carb" and "protected carbs"   Below is the actual label information from this product:

Nutrition label states (for a 2 oz. serving - 1/2 inch circle measurement of spaghetti)

Please take a moment to read the label correctly.  41 grams of total carb - 5 grams of dietary fiber = 36 grams of net carb! 

How do these people sleep at night?  Below are the ingredients. 

 Enriched Semolina, Fiber Blend (Inulin, Guar Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carrageenan, Pectin), Sorbitol, Wheat Gluten, Potassium Chloride

Note the Enriched Semolina (white flour).  The "fiber blend" is what makes up the 5 grams of fiber listed as fiber grams.  This product would destroy your program!  Please, please, please.......read your food labels correctly and don't be mislead by companies trying to cash in on a health condition. 

I think I need to do a few laps around the block now as my pressure's up a bit.........   Diane

 August 4, 2009......You should feel great after Day 3!

This entry is for those of you who are beginning Step 1.  As you know, the first three days are a bit dicey....your pancreas and liver are transitioning from over-working to "going on vacation."  You will most likely feel tired, irritable, crave carb foods, perhaps experience a headache, etc.  Consider these 3 days to be the storm before the calm!  (I do realize that last sentence is reversed and is my attempt at a little humor).  After 3 days, there should be a wonderful feeling of calm, peace, increased energy, decreased hunger, decreased cravings, overall well-being.  In a sense, day 4 is the beginning of your new and improved life.  What if you get to day 4 and don't feel better?  Ask yourself the following 5 questions....the answer is in one or more of them.  Fix it, and you will be in business:

August 1, 2009.......THE NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLERS LIST

I am so overwhelmed.  The Metabolism Miracle made The New York Times Best Sellers List; Sunday, August 9, Hardcover Advice.  This is such an honor and a privilege.  I want to thank all who purchased and will purchase this life changing program, the readers and supporters of this life-changing program.  This one is for all of us with Metabolism B!  We finally found the way to a healthy, happy life in the body we were meant to have.  Thank you so, so much.  Diane

July 31, 2009.........."And another thing"

The Metabolism Miracle is a very unique program.  It's first step, Step 1, is a fat- burning phase.  As long as you get physical activity (30 minutes 5 days/week) and drink adequate water/decaf fluid, the only weight that will say "goodbye" during those 8 weeks will be fat tissue.  As you've probably heard, muscle and water weigh more than fat.  Fat is so light that it can float.  When you lose all fat, you burn very voluminous tissue....tissue that takes up lots of space. The result is big changes in your body's size and shape.   Fat tissue, however, is lighter than if you were burning muscle and dehydrating (like most other diet programs!).  So, I'm telling you that on The Miracle you are not looking for "weight loss"  you are looking for "fat loss."

Next....When a dieter has Metabolism A, their calorie -based diet causes a very predictable loss of weight (fat, MUSCLE, and WATER)...about 1-2 pounds/week.  A's also lose 3-5 pounds of water weight initially.  When a dieter with Met B follows The Metabolism Miracle, they don't count calories or try to trying to burn calories when they exercise. B's are rectifying a hormonal imbalance of the fat gain hormone insulin.  The fat loss is not going to be the same every week.....but at the end of 8 weeks.......you will be extremely pleased with the result.  You will look much thinner, retain your muscle tone, stay hydrated and preserve the youthful glow and tightness of your skin.

Why this mini-lecture?  Because......I want you all to stay off the scale for 8 weeks and enjoy the ride!!!!!!!!!!!  Smiling........Diane

July 31, 2009.......Check out the Podcast on the Home Page

There is a very informative podcast on the homepage of this website.  Just give it a click.  It's about a 20 minute interview with great questions and gives a nice explanation of the program.  More news to come about 2 magazine stories that will hit the stands in September and October.  Even bigger news about an announcement to follow regarding Sunday, August 9!  Stay tuned.

For all the readers who finally got their books.....I wish you the best with the start of the program.  You are truly beginning a journey to permanent weight loss, improved energy, and health of mind and body........Diane

July 24, 2009.....Yummy Snack for Step 1 (or any Step) of The Metabolism Miracle

I had to take a moment to tell everyone about a very cool product that fits as a "neutral food" on Step 1. Emerald Brand Cocoa Roast Almonds...Dark Chocolate Flavor. I am speechless! (And that takes a lot). Don't go nuts with nuts.  As with plain almonds, keep your intake to about a handful at a time.  If you have a chocolate craving and don't want to use a 5x5 Ghiradelli dark chocolate square, you can have a handful of these without counting them! Fantastic mid afternoon treat on Step 1 or on any Step of the Miracle! Diane

July 23, 2009.....Water, water, water  (actual reader question)

Q:  "One of the side effects of a well-known low carb diet is its  tendency to invoke a gout attack. That was certainly the case when I tried this program.  However, since then I have come to realize that any change in my diet seems to cause a gout attack despite taking Allopurinol to control my uric acid. I am wondering if your clients with gout have experienced attack problems and whether there is anything I can do to alleviate or minimize the possibility".

 

Hi Diane,

Thank you for writing the Metabolism Miracle.

Our question for you is “Does my weight have anything to do with me being unable to conceive through artificial insemination and If it does, how much weight loss will be enough to be able to conceive? Should I wait till I am on the MM diet for a few months before trying to get pregnant again?” None of my Dr.’s have said anything about the weight being an issue.  I am 95% sure I am perfect for this plan.  You have been under medical care for infertility, and you mention no other physical conditions preventing pregnancy. I feel comfortable telling you that your inability to conceive even after artificial insemination (AI) is not exactly a weight issue. It can be caused by uncontrolled Metabolism B!  The hallmark of Met B is a hormonal imalance of the fat gain hormone, insulin.  Excess insulin has made you gain excess fat! Excess insulin can also go hand in hand with imbalances of other endocrine hormones including the hormones of reproduction.  After 8 weeks of Step 1....your hyperinsulinism will be cleared.  You will have lost fat and regained hormonal balalnce.  Anytime after the 8th week, when you are on Steps 2 or 3 of the program, would be a good time to start actively trying to get pregnant again.

My history

I am 28 years old. 5 “2 During my teens I was always 15 lbs. overweight. I lost some weight after I got married by starvation and 3 hour workouts (4 times a week). It is impossible not to initially lose weight with such calorie/nutritional deprivation plus excess exercise...but it is a short -lived situation as the human body cannot exist this way.  After a period of time, your metabolic rate actually slows to match the deprivation and when you return to  normal eating, you regain all that you lost and then some.  In 2003 we did in-vitro fertilization 2 times. Neither of them worked. It is very probable that your Met B was uncontrolled at this time.  However, in the first week of taking hormones to do the ivf, I gained 15 lbs.IVF involves using hormones that raise blood sugar.  If you have Met B, this rise in blood sugar will make your insulin situation even worse!.I didn’t have anything to wear to work. The second time I did it (the next month) I had gained another 15lbs. See above!  I was 120 at the start and I ended up being 150. During this time I went from Dr. to Dr. trying to get the weight off but to no avail. In 2005, I got pregnant (at 160 lbs.) through Artificial Insemination and now Thank G-d have a 2 and ½ year old.Now this is terrific news, congratulations  I am 175lbs. (it took 2 years to get from 190 to 175) and cannot lose a lb. Met B is progressive....if left uncontrolled, it gets worse and worseI have tried everything from a trainer to masters swimming daily. Once I gain a lb. I cannot lose it. This is due to the hormonal imbalance of the fat gain hormone, insulin..When I eat I immediately gain except for when I was on the raw food diet for 6 months and I didn’t gain any weight which was fabulous but I also didn’t lose weight and I really would like to lose weight.

I went to a reproductive endocrinologist who told me that I shouldn’t be swimming because all of the animals in the ocean are huge Swimming is often considered the perfect exercise.......and what an odd perception of sea life??????? and that’s the way I will be if I swim. He also told me that I MUST be using too much salad dressing on my salads and that’s why I am not losing weight. When I told him that I only use lemon juice or vinegar he wouldn’t believe me and his facial expression made that very clear to me and my husband! This physician doesn't understand Metabolism B.  Suggest he read The Metabolism Miracle....fast......

The next Dr. I went to was a regular endocrinologist that told me about the 500 calorie a day diet (like you mention in the book), I didn’t even try that one. He wanted me to take metformin because he said there was nothing else I could do for my pre-diabetes (glucose 102 and total cholesterol 201 everything else seems to be normal) and I don’t have insulin resistance.In a previous paragraph I explained the pitfalls of starvation diets.   Your fasting glucose is 102  because you have had uncontrolled Met B for quite some time.  As a result, you now have pre-diabetes.  If you don't get the hormonal imbalance corrected, you will develop type 2 diabetes.  Type 2 diabetes is irreversible!  You absolutely have insulin resistance because you have pre-diabetes.  This person is an endocrinologist?  Wow.

I am starting the Metabolism Miracle tomorrow (I just received the book yesterday) and I am really hoping that it will work.  Big Smile Here, Diane.........

Raspberry Banana Tofu Shake

Ingredients:

1. 1 finely chopped green bell pepper
2. 1 finely chopped red bell pepper
3. 1/2 finely chopped onion
4. 1 clove garlic, minced
5. 1/3 cup Italian Dressing or Balsamic vinegarette
6. 1/2 teaspoon salt (if desired)
7. 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
8. 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
9. 4 portobello mushroom caps

-Brush mushroom caps with olive oil and set aside.
-In a mixing bowl, mix together all ingredients
(this spread can be made the night before and left to marinate in the refrigerator)
-Place 1/4 of the spread over the gill side of each mushroom cap
-Lightly oil the grill grate. Place mushrooms over indirect medium heat, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.

Asian Lettuce Wraps

Perfect for all Steps of “The Metabolism Miracle.”  The little lettuce cup becomes its individual wrap!  Very pretty on a serving tray for appetizers or even served out on the deck with a glass of wine or a tall glass of lemon water…….Recipe modified from this month’s Family Circle magazine!  Makes 12 yummy lettuce wraps.

Ingredients:

Stir fry sauce (2 Tbls corn starch, 2 Tbls soy sauce, 1Tbls. sesame or peanut oil, 1 cup water….Blend or whisk ingredients and pour over in step 3 below).

Preparation:

1.)    Remove 12 small bowl-shaped leaves from head of lettuce; rinse and set aside

2.)    Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Stir in peppers and cook for 2 minutes. Add beef and cook for 5-7 minutes. Drain.

3.)    Return to pan. Stir in stir-fry sauce and cook for 1 minute or until thickened

4.)    Spoon about ¼ cup beef mixture into each lettuce cup and serve.

      Until this time, over 45% of dieters (those with Metabolism B) have found it impossible to lose weight and keep it off using traditional weight loss programs.  Unknown to themselves, they were born with this alternate metabolism, and as time passed, it progressed to the point that they actually displayed symptoms like midline fat, fatigue, depression, carb cravings, energy slumps, irritability, poor short term memory, and creeping weight gain.

      They felt that they were diet failures lacking self-control, discipline and willpower. They did not realize that traditional diets had failed them.  Until now.  By spending a few minutes with checklists for symptoms, family history, and their own medical history (even their lab work), it is possible to positively  identify that they truly do have Metabolism B.

     The Metabolism Miracle is the first diet and lifestyle program of its kind.  It is the only all-inclusive 3-step program that covers all the needs of Metabolism B including a rest period for the overworked pancreas, reprogramming of the insulin response, and individualized maintenance phase.

     Because unchecked Metabolism B effects so much more than weight,  living the The Metabolism Miracle lifestyle also improves energy, overall physical health, and emotional well-being.

     Up until this point, researching, developing, and teaching The Metabolism Miracle had been the highlight of my career in medical nutrition therapy.  For the past 10 years, I’ve refined this program and taught it to a select group of patients….that ultimately blossomed into the close to 3000 patients who have now followed the program through my Nutrition Center in Morristown, NJ.  I have shared in their happiness, improved health, decreased medication needs, and healthier bodies and minds.

     The writing of this book is now the single most exciting and rewarding experience of my life and career.  Through this book, I can share this revolutionary program with you…and the millions of people who have been unable to lose weight and regain their health by any other program.

     I hope that you are excited, energized, motivated, and ready to get started on your new and improved life.  The sky is the limit for you. You finally have the one program physiologically designed to match your metabolism.  By living The Metabolism Miracle Lifestyle, you finally have the long-term weight loss solution that will actually help mend your body and soul! Diane