Family * Travel * Food

Low-Carb Italian Zucchini Boats

If you are like me, you probably have about 50 links on Facebook you saved of recipe or exercise videos that caught your eye. You tell yourself you will try that amazing ab and butt workout or will bake that triple chocolate ganache brownie cake. Am I right? Of course I am! I think Facebook sends me bi-weekly reminders that tell me I have saved links to look at. 

Recently I saw a recipe floating around Facebook for Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats and it really caught my attention. This time it was only saved for one week instead of 6 months. Today was finally the day I would try it. I followed the recipe for the most part, but tweaked it to my taste. First, here is the original recipe from Valerie's Kitchen. 


I omitted the extra flesh that was scraped out of the zucchini as well as the panko bread crumbs at the end. Also, I used a 4-cheese pasta sauce instead of marinara like the recipe stated. I put my own favorite seasonings including some extra hot pepper and let me tell you, this one is a winner! It was so full of flavor and good texture. I like the fact that you top it with the cheeses at the end so that it doesn't get too gooey or lose it's cheesiness (if that makes sense).



My husband does not like zucchini at all. He will tolerate trying one or two slices in a stir-fry, but still never actually liked it. He is currently practicing a lower carb lifestyle and I begged him to try it. He started with half of one "boat" and soon went back to the kitchen for the other half. He was so shocked that he really liked it. I was super shocked myself! I think it was because the zucchini was still pretty firm that he enjoyed it. If it was squooshy, he would not touch it. 

I did notice that if you reheat any of the leftovers that they become a whole lot softer. I think I will bake for 5-8 minutes less next time. One of my blog friends mentioned that her mother makes these with eggplant. I will definitely have to try that in the future. If you are looking for a delicious dinner idea (especially if you are doing LCHF), you must try this one!

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What You Need to Know about Nasal Polyps

Have you been experiencing trouble breathing through your nose? Losing your sense of smell and taste? Perhaps painful sinus headaches that affect life, making daily activities difficult? These could be the signs of nasal polyps. Many patients begin to notice this issue after developing symptoms that won’t go away after a lengthy period of time.

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What Are Polyps?


Nasal polyps are grape-like growths that occurs in the nasal and sinus cavities. They begin to block the airways in the nostrils and can even begin to spread. Most people don’t notice that there is anything wrong until an obvious sign occurs, such as a persistent sinus headache or a rise in the number of times they get sick or develop an infection. The polyps grow gradually over time, which means that many patients don’t notice that they have a problem because the body has adjusted with the growth. Patients who have their polyps treated often note a major positive impact on their nasal breathing as well as other nose and sinus related symptoms.

How Are Polyps Diagnosed?

Patients with stuffy nose, diminished sense of smell and taste, postnasal drainage, etc may at some point make their way to an ear, nose and throat physician. Further evaluation will often involve a nasal endoscopy in which the doctor uses a small lighted rod to view back into the nasal passages. It is on careful examination, often with endoscopy, that patients are sometimes found to have nasal polyps. Further studies, such as CT scans, may be performed to help determine the extent of the polyps and the sinus blockage.

How Can Polyps be Treated?

Some polyps respond well to medications and others do not. There is an increasingly wide range of prescription nasal sprays and oral medications that can slow down the growth of polyps and, in some cases, shrink them. On occasion, it may be recommended that polyps be surgically removed so that the topical medications can work more effectively to keep them from coming back. Fortunately, surgery for polyps has changed a lot during the past few years, and is now usually an outpatient, minimally-invasive procedure without packing, bruising, or splints, and only minimal discomfort while the healing process occurs.  Small stents are now available that can be implanted during surgery and give off anti-inflammatory medication for several weeks.

In any case, polyps should always be evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat physician. Some polyps – particularly those that occur on one side only – need careful evaluation to ensure that there is not a more serious condition present.

To get help with nasal polyps, contact of Dr. Samuel S. Becker, a sinus specialist located in Pennsylvania. He is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and a board-certified specialist in otolaryngology. For more information about him, visit his website at www.beckerent.com.

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When Your Double Chin Just Won't Budge

You lead a healthy lifestyle and are committed to taking care of your body. You understand that it is your temple and you want to last well into your golden years. That means taking the time to choose foods that are good for you, practicing portion control, and indulging in moderation. Exercise is also a key component of your daily regimen. You're doing everything you are supposed to do, but you have a problem that is beyond your control. It's your double chin. It just won't go away.

It's hard to find an exercise that can focus on this trouble spot. Your weight is under control and you're in good shape, but that loose excess skin and fat isn't going anywhere. You're tired of looking at it in the mirror. Fortunately, you have options that can help you to tighten up this problem area that bothers men and women of all ages.
Liposuction is One Popular Solution

If deposits of reluctant fat beneath your chin are the only problem, liposuction could be the best answer for you. Your plastic surgeon will make a small incision in a targeted area beneath your chin. A hollow tube that is referred to as a cannula will be inserted into the incision in order to loosen up the deposits of fat that have collected beneath your chin. The fat will be suctioned away and your incision will be closed. Expect the incision area to be sore for a few days following your procedure. Slight swelling and some bruising are normal as well. However, your double chin will be gone when you have fully recovered.

Consider Kybella

Kybella offers you a solution that is non-surgical when you want to do something about that pesky double chin. It is an injectable that can destroy the fat cells that have gathered beneath your chin. Kybella contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a substance that is naturally produced by your body on a regular basis. It helps your body to break down fat and absorb it when you eat. When it is injected in a concentrated from in the skin beneath your chin, it will effectively blast away those bothersome fat cells. The end result will be tighter skin beneath your chin. The treatment takes about twenty minutes. You may need up to six treatments for the best results. They will be spread out a month apart. 

A Facelift Could be Right for You 

If you are looking for a more advanced solution, a facelift could be the best alternative. You can choose a facelift that focuses on the lower portion of the face and your double chin or a full facelift that will pull up skin on the upper portion of your face as well. A consultation with your plastic surgeon will determine how to tailor your procedure to meet your needs. The underlying tissues beneath the surface of your skin will be reshaped, excess skin and fat will be removed, resulting in tighter, smoother skin on your face.

The Solution is Up to You and Your Surgeon

You need to think about what you want in order to improve your appearance. You know that you aren't happy with your double chin. Now you need to consider how involved you want your procedure to be in order to get the best results. If you are prone to severe scarring or allergic reactions, Kybella and other injectables may not be the best solution. If your face is drooping considerably and wrinkles are a problem in addition to a double chin, a facelift can do wonders. Something as simple as liposuction may be best if there is only a problem with excess fat beneath your chin. Research your options. Look at photo galleries. Review the procedures to know what you want. Consider the recovery process and downtime that will come with each procedure. If you want to be on the go as soon as possible, Kybella is the most practical option. However, Kybella will not produce instant results. You will need to be patient. The results from a facelift and liposuction will be noticeable sooner, but the recovery process is longer. Facelift will result in the longest healing period. You can expect bruising and swelling after your procedure. Choose the solution that will give you optimal results and make sure it fits your lifestyle.


Give Yourself the Profile You Want to See

Your tired of looking at your double chin in the mirror. You hide from cameras because you don't want any photos to capture how you look right now. You want to see smooth, tight skin beneath your chin. The best way to make any changes to sit down with a plastic surgeon in order to have a thorough evaluation. Treatment is different for each individual. It's not one-size-fits-all. What works best to treat another person's double chin may not work for you. Your research can prepare you to know your options, but it will be up to you and your surgeon in the end to choose the best path. 

Find Out What the New York Center for Facial and Plastic Surgery Can Do for You

Turn to the experts at the New York Center for Facial and Plastic Surgery to discover your options for your double chin. Put yourself in the expert hands of Dr. Andrew Jacono, plastic surgeon specializing in facelifts

With a wealth of experience and dual certification, he is considered a renowned source on a global level when it comes to facial and reconstructive plastic surgery. He has focused on procedures that are minimally invasive and non-surgical in order to enhance facial features. When you come in for your consultation, Dr. Jacono will sit down with you to discuss your concerns. Your facial features will be evaluated and your medical history will also be reviewed as a treatment plan is planned for you. Dr. Jacono will discuss all of your options so that you can make an informed decision. Learn more about Dr. Jacono and your alternatives by visiting http://www.newyorkfacialplasticsurgery.com.

Many thanks to Dr. Jacono for this informative guest post. 
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How To Make The Perfect Margarita

Hello, April! It's that beautiful time of year where we get to see the changes of spring take place. I spent the weekend outdoors with my family planting flowers, weeding garden beds, re-potting plants, and doing our big annual clean-up. The warmer temperatures and longer hours of sunlight have gotten me excited for the warmer months. 

One of our favorite beverages year 'round is a good old-fashioned homemade margarita. We do not like those pre-made mixers at all. If you are looking for a very good margarita recipe (with a little bit of kick) you are in the right place. My neighbor shared this recipe with me a while back that she got from our other neighbor. It's so good and we make it all the time! The great part if you do not need any fancy bar equipment or even formal glassware for serving. This recipe is perfect for girls' trips, girls' night in, or parties. 

How to make the perfect Margarita

Ingredients: 

2 cups of good white tequila (we use Jose Cuervo)
2 cups of triple sec
2 cups of fresh or bottled lime juice (we use this one
2 cups *sugar plus 2 cups water to make a simple syrup

Directions:

The first step is to make your simple syrup. The key is to fully dissolve the sugar into the water. It's best to chill simple syrup before adding to the other ingredients. Stir all ingredients in a pitcher and serve over plenty of ice. If you prefer frozen margaritas, you can blend with ice. It's delicious either way. 

*I use a little less sugar because I don't like my drinks too sweet. You can adjust to your taste. 

Tips:

I serve mine on the rocks with a simple wedge of lime. You can use margarita glasses with salted or sugared rims. I will be experimenting with strawberry, mango, and raspberry purees to make some exciting flavors. If you want, you can make half the recipe or even double it.

If you have been on the hunt for a good margarita recipe, you will love this one. Let me know if you decide to give it a try. Thanks for stopping by today.

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How to Recover After a Breast Augmentation

In the event you are considering breast augmentation, you might want to read this guest article for some insight before you make a decision in regards to the recovery process.

Breast augmentation recovery needs patients to minimize their physical activities for about a week before resuming their daily activities. The amount of time and the downtime needed for a full recovery to take place depends on the incisions made, the implant size and if the breast implant was positioned below or above the pectoral muscle.

Breast augmentation is among the most requested cosmetic surgery, and continuous improvements are being refined so that women can undergo the procedure, recover and get back to their daily activities as soon as possible. Since the breast augmentation surgery and the results are the most crucial points, recovery is also an important step for the best results to be shown.

If you plan to go for breast augmentation, you may end up spending a good amount of time deciding on the surgeon to go for with the budget you have. These are important aspects of the surgery that should be considered, but you should also plan for the amount of time you need to take from work to heal in a good environment as you avoid any strenuous activity.

As you take your break, you need to be aware that you will not be seated or sleep for the entire week; you are allowed to do some small less strenuous activities, but you should also be careful to ensure that any activity you are taking will contribute positively to your recovery process.

If you are planning to get breast enhancement, you need to spend a good time studying about the surgery and the recovery timelines. Once you are aware of what to expect, and you prepare to follow the instructions of the surgeon, you will have a great chance of maximizing the chances of a great surgery that will give you satisfaction and confidence in your looks.

Subglandular versus submuscular placement

The position of the breast implant always revolves around two regions, below or above the pectoral muscle. This position is also dependent on the goals, lifestyle and other factors. The most invasive of the surgeries is the submuscular placement because this method requires the separation of the pectoral muscle for the implant to fit after the incision on the skin is done.

Submuscular placement is the recommended position for women who are not into physical activities that engage the upper body and women who also desire natural looks. As we have described, submuscular placement is invasive, and it requires downtime of about one week from any physical activity like jogging. After the week is over, the patient should avoid going to the gym or lifting any heavy object for about four weeks. But for patients who go for subglandular placement, they can get back to work after four days of rest.

Depending on the implant placement, healing garments also contribute to the rate of recovery. For instance, patients who have undergone submuscular placement should put on a 2-inch wrap bandage above the breast. Once the surgery is done, the implant will start to harmonize with the breast tissues and the muscles to gain a more natural appearance.

You might be shocked when you notice that your breasts are high even after a few weeks of surgery, especially if you have undergone submuscular placement. It is possible for the breasts to look high for a long period (2 to 3 months), but after the muscle traps the implant at this position, it will release it to fall into the pocket with time.

After a subglandular placement, the patient should wear a conventional bra that does not have an under-wire that hinders the implant falling into place. Take note of the position of the incision, because it plays a role in the recovery process.

Incision location

The first kind of incision we are going to look at is the inframammary incision which is done at the crease located at the bottom of the breast where the chest wall and the lower breast protrusion takes place. If this is the best position for the implant to be positioned, then you be advised to rest for at least four weeks before resuming your daily activities that involve the upper body.

During the recovery period, you should avoid lifting your arms over your head to avoid any strain from impacting the upper body, to allow proper healing to take place.

There are other incisions that do not need a lot of time for recovery. For instance, if the implant is placed through an incision that is done around the nipple, there is practically no body movement or strenuous activity that directly targets this location. An incision procedure that produces the last scarring is called a TUBA (transumbilical) placement.

In TUBA placement, an endoscope which is a surgical tool that has a thin pliable tube with a small camera on its end is used to place a deflated saline implant in the navel, through the incision made. A saline solution is added to the implant for it to get to the desired size.

The size of the implant

There are various sizes of breast implants, ranging from women who desire a huge burst, to women who want to achieve moderate alignment and any other size in between. The size you choose affects the recovery duration. For instance, larger implants exert a lot of pressure below the pectoral muscle, leading to stretching of the overlying skin. The net effect is a recovery that takes longer.

Do not smoke

We should all be aware that smoking tobacco has a lasting negative effect on our health. But it gets worse if you are smoking while going through a recovery that follows a breast implant surgery. Nicotine shrinks the blood vessels, which lowers the oxygen levels in the body organs. Since cells have to divide for the wounds to heal, they require oxygen which is delayed when you are smoking.

Conclusion

For more information on breast implant procedures to help you achieve your desired result, call Dr. Douglas Steinbrech, breast augmentation surgeon practicing in New York on (347) 983-9560. You may also log on to https://www.drsteinbrech.com and schedule an appointment in the New York or Beverly hills offices.
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