74 posts shown.
Timothy Reed8 said:Seriously, jadesailor14 is a legend! 😍
mistyranger51, thanks! I had no clue they even did these installs in Cleveland!
But I heard you can actually get it covered for free now if there’s enough medical reason to say the thickness is a health risk... I mean, my knee popped out twice, my ankle is constantly clicking, my muscle tone is non-existent, and my cycle is a total mess... 🙄 plus, who knows what else they might find... 😢
I tracked down some numbers for Barack Obama's office, but man, getting a hold of him is impossible... 😕
maybe check around Cleveland a bit more? Just call 658-122—that's the professor's secretary—and you can get the real scoop straight from the source.
David Morris86, how’s that diet going? I’ve already dropped 2 lbs since Monday just by sticking to the South Beach Diet—I know it’s mostly water weight, but hey, at least it's something!
David Morris86 said:Alright, we’re officially underway. I stepped on the scale this morning, and I’m at 139 lbs. Don't tell me that's a lot, because I'm a tiny woman, standing about 5'2"... My goal is to hit 128 lbs and, of course, get my triglycerides under control. Nothing is harder than living without dessert. You can imagine how tough this is for me when the house is constantly filled with sweets. My daughter is actually running a small baking business from home while she's on maternity leave. She’s a real pro... You can check out her work over at collinarka. Her password is SALUAN (based on her kids' names; Sarah, Luke, and Anthony). Anyway, we are brave, determined women. We eat light and lose the fat. Good luck to us all...😂
I've got way more weight to lose, but honestly, even dropping 20 lbs would make me happy. Compared to you, I'm practically a twig.
I stayed on track today. Had some cottage cheese for breakfast, and since I didn't have time to cook lunch, I just threw together a quick salad with Rio Mare tuna, kidney beans, and red cabbage. For dinner, just a little bit of Podravac light.
Your daughter sounds awesome—it's wild she can bake all those treats while looking after three kids.
Best,
David Morris86 said:Thanks for putting in the work to provide such detailed info. All right. We can start Monday, but we’re doing this for real. Tomorrow, we start weighing in and logging the results every Sunday night. No cheating myself, though. I might have a little dessert tomorrow. Thanks again... goodnight, until we go over those final instructions tomorrow.😂
Can I just post my results Monday morning instead? I'm never really in the mood to weigh in at night.
I really need to drop a few pounds—got some baptisms and first communions coming up soon!
What do you think? If you're down—maybe we could kick things off on April 14th if that works for you?
Give it at least 3 to 6 months—if things don't settle down by then, you can always look into other meds. I'm pretty sure yours have been running high since Easter. How's your sugar looking lately? How often are you checking it? Mine’s just hovering right on the edge.
FOOD YOU CAN ENJOY
BEEF
Lean cuts—like kidney (ground or whole), chuck, or round
POULTRY (skinless), Turkey and chicken breasts, Turkey deli meat (2 slices a day)
SEAFOOD
All kinds of fish and shellfish
PORK
Boiled ham
Round cut
VEAL
Eye of round
Steak
Chuck steak
CHEESE (LOW FAT OR LOW FAT CONTENT)
Cheddar
Feta
Mozzarella
Parmesan
Provolone
Ricotta
Fresh cheese, fat-free Republican Party
Peanuts, 20 small ones
Peanut butter, 1 teaspoon
Pistachios, 30 pieces
Walnut halves, 15
EGGS
There isn't a limit on eggs—unless you have high cholesterol. You can just stick to egg whites if you want.
TOFU
Go for soft tofu, low fat, or light versions.
VEGETABLES AND LEGUMES
Artichokes
Swiss chard
Broccoli
Celery
Cauliflower
Mushrooms (all types)
Beans (black, navy, chickpeas, kidney, pinto, adzuki, lentils, lima, pigeon pea, soy, peas)
Cucumbers
Cabbage
Snap peas
Eggplant
Turnip
Asparagus
Spinach, Zucchini
Green salad
FATS
Olive oil
Canola oil
SEASONINGS
Almond and vanilla extracts
Pepper (black, white)
Any spices without added sugar
Herbs
Horseradish sauce
SWEETS
(LIMIT TO 75 CALORIES A DAY)
Cocoa powder, no sugar added
Cocoa powder, for baking
Sugar substitute
Hard candies, sugar-free
Water ice, sugar-free
Jello, sugar-free
Gum, sugar-free
FRUIT: Blueberries, Peaches, Cantaloupe, Grapefruit, Grapes, Apples, Strawberries, Kiwi,
Pears, Mango, dried and fresh, Oranges, Plums, Cherries
DAIRY
Yogurt, low fat, fruit flavored
Yogurt, plain, nonfat or low fat
Milk, skim or 1% fat
Soy milk
STARCHES (IN SMALL AMOUNTS)
Bread
- Whole wheat
- Multi-grain
- Oat and bran
- Rye
Potatoes
Popcorn (microwaved)
Pita bread
- Whole wheat
- Whole grain
Bran muffins
- Sugar-free (no raisins)
Whole grain mini rolls
Rice, brown
Pasta, whole wheat
Cereals
- Oatmeal (not instant)
- High-fiber cereals
VEGETABLES AND LEGUMES
Black beans
Barley
Mixed beans
MISC
Red wine
Dark chocolate (in small amounts)
Semi-sweet chocolate (in small amounts)
Pudding, fat-free
David Morris86 said:That sounds great. Let's tackle this South Beach Diet together. Could you put together a meal plan for me? It's always easier with a partner... Just please don't suggest cutting out my morning coffee. I'm practically useless without it in the morning. Thanks in advance.☕🤷
I can probably just give you a list of what's okay to eat and what isn't, then you can build your own menu. You can definitely have coffee—just stick to black or maybe a splash of milk.
David Morris86 said:Thanks for the advice. To be honest, I don't actually have a specific diet plan for lowering my triglycerides yet. I'm planning to touch base with my doctor about it in the next few days. What was that diet you mentioned that worked so well for you? I've been sticking to my routine for ten days now... staying disciplined, though I haven't seen any real changes just yet. I know patience is key. I was actually out in California for a bit recently. I spend a lot of time in Santa Monica, and it occurred to me that you might be somewhere nearby. Please reach out again when you can with some more of those wise, encouraging words.😉😂
So, I've been looking into the South Beach Diet—basically you cut out everything with a high glycemic index and just eat whatever else you want? Seems pretty solid... plus you don't even feel that hungry. Honestly, I think I’ll skip the first phase this time around since it feels a bit too intense for me—maybe just jump straight into phase two? If you're actually serious about doing this, we should probably start together so we can keep each other on track. I have this bad habit where I start, get overwhelmed, quit, and then just repeat the whole cycle forever. Anyway, cheers—talk soon!
David Morris86 said:As promised, I’m checking in after my follow-up with Dr. Smith. Everything remains stable, which is good news. My medication stays the same, though they've moved me onto a strict diet because my triglycerides spiked. I've never dealt with this before, but I suppose there's always a first time... The diet shouldn't be too much of a struggle, considering all those cookies and deli meats during Easter caused me to put on an extra 5 or 6 pounds. My triglyceride level is currently at 3.7. Do you happen to have any advice for losing weight quickly and easily? I have nothing to wear lately—everything feels too tight. Or maybe my clothes just shrunk in the wash...😂☕☕lol:
I’m dealing with high testosterone and triglycerides too, so I totally get where you're coming from. I was actually watching Professor Curtis (that big-name endocrinologist over at the clinic) on the RI channel yesterday. He was saying you really have to take it slow with the weight loss—like, maybe aim for 5% of your body weight in three months, or 10% in six—so you don't hit that annoying yo-yo effect. The only thing that actually worked for me without the rebound was the South Beach Diet. The only catch? I can never seem to keep the momentum going once I hit a plateau.
My advice? Just cut back on the heavy meals a bit—maybe grab some cottage cheese or yogurt for dinner instead—and try to squeeze in some walking (if your doctor clears you for that). As for the triglycerides... man, we've gotta ditch the sweets, alcohol, potatoes, bread, and all that stuff.
David Morris86 said:Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. I visited Palm Springs back in '94, and while they've probably modernized everything since then, it didn't particularly blow me away. I've been to some other spots too, but my favorite is Saratoga Springs... specifically during the season when the indoor-outdoor hotel pool is open. That’s usually from mid-June through the end of September. The water quality is excellent, even if the amenities aren't exactly luxury level. But that isn't my main priority. If you want more details, just ask. When is your follow-up with Smith? I have my appointment on March 31st at 2:00 PM. Best, Vida
Let us know how it goes. I went back in December, then did some blood work and waited on the results from my immunologist via mail. So, no need for me to head up there right now—but I see my rheumatologist in San Francisco every month, though she just pushed my next one out two months. Cheers.
David Morris86 said:Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. This is my first time posting online, and your message is the very first one I've received. It seems we're connected by more than just our diagnosis; we actually share the same doctor over at Rib, Dr. Smith. I've been battling arthritis for 14 years now. For ten of those years, I was treated in Oakland, but once I started having issues with pulmonary pressure, I went looking for a top-tier immunologist. He ended up referring me to Jordan for pulmonary hypertension—my numbers hit 130, which was quite a scare... I'm currently on a 100mg dose of Pfizer for that (not exactly a light dose for my husband), and I feel good. At the same time, my arthritis is in remission. I sometimes wonder if the Pfizer helped with that too, though I can't be sure... Right now, my treatment includes Rezocin and 4mg of Medrol. I'm doing well at the moment, but it took an incredible amount of struggle and patience navigating hospitals, spas, and various therapies. I've tried everything people suggested, always believing I could stay stronger than the illness. I don't have time to dwell on being sick. My three wonderful grandkids are my best therapy, both physically and emotionally. I'm 54, living in Columbus, and currently on disability retirement. I won't take up any more of your time. Best regards until we speak again... 👍
I'm really glad to hear you're doing well. I've heard about Pfizer at work—funny how that works. Maybe you could tell me a bit more about the spas, specifically if you've been to the ones in Cleveland? And I totally agree, grandkids really are the best medicine. Best wishes to you too!
brightlynx11 said:Does anyone actually have a logical reason for this? 😂
Idk, honey—maybe you should just ask the nutritionist over at the National Association for Obesity Prevention site where they got this diet from in the first place!
Frank Hughes56 said:Awesome, I was just wondering—has anyone here actually given this a shot? Like, does the weight actually start dropping once you get going?
I grabbed it from the National Association for Obesity Prevention site—they've got a bunch of success stories posted there too.
😂Here’s an example of a 7-day meal plan from the National Association for Obesity Prevention, if anyone's interested
1. MONDAY
7.00 EARLY BREAKFAST: one cup of apples, pears, plums, or a small bunch of grapes
8-9.00 BREAKFAST: coffee or tea
1-2 slices of lean turkey deli meat or 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese
one slice of whole grain bread
11.00 SNACK I: an apple or a small slice of multigrain bread
12-14.00 LUNCH: tomato soup
steamed kale or steamed chard
80 grams of turkey or steamed blue fish (like mackerel)
15-16.00 SNACK II: a fresh veggie salad
18-19.30 DINNER: one slice of whole grain bread
yogurt or a cup of low-fat cottage cheese topped with ground seeds
2. TUESDAY
7.00 EARLY BREAKFAST: an orange, mandarin, grapefruit, or some fresh fruit juice
8-9.00 BREAKFAST: probiotic yogurt (LGG or AB cultures)
a multigrain roll
11.00 SNACK I: a pear or an apple
12-14.00 LUNCH: vegetable soup
80 grams of roasted turkey breast
a seasonal salad
15-16.00 SNACK II: apple compote or any other fruit compote
18-19.30 DINNER: 80 grams of canned tuna (in water, not oil, ideally in brine)
green salad
3. WEDNESDAY
7.00 EARLY BREAKFAST: one cup of kiwi, apple, or plums
8-9.00 BREAKFAST: milk or tea with honey
one slice of whole grain bread topped with ground sesame seeds
2 dried apricots
11.00 SNACK I: one large mandarin, two small ones, or a grapefruit
12-14.00 LUNCH: vegetable soup
mushroom risotto
beet salad
15-16.00 SNACK II: an apple
18-19.30 DINNER: raw vegetables with fresh cheese and dill or fennel seasoning
acidophilus milk
lemon balm or mint tea
4. THURSDAY
7.00 EARLY BREAKFAST: one large mandarin, two small ones, or a grapefruit
8-9.00 BREAKFAST: 4 tablespoons of barley and oat porridge made with diluted milk; add 1 tablespoon of raisins
11.00 SNACK I: a pear, an apple, or a small bunch of grapes
12-14.00 LUNCH: cauliflower soup
4-6 fried sardines (pat them dry with paper towels to soak up the grease)
steamed chard
15-16.00 SNACK II: a small slice of multigrain bread or 2 figs
18-19.30 DINNER: fresh cheese with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed and dill
one slice of whole grain bread
green salad or another mixed veggie medley, plus tea
5. FRIDAY
7.00 EARLY BREAKFAST: one cup of apples, pears, plums, or a small bunch of grapes
8-9.00 BREAKFAST: rosehip tea, coffee, or skim milk
one slice of whole grain bread with seeds
11.00 SNACK I: an orange
12-14.00 LUNCH: chicken soup with veggies
the mixed veggies from the soup with a splash of apple cider vinegar
boiled chicken
15-16.00 SNACK II: 4 dried apricots
18-19.30 DINNER: probiotic yogurt (LGG or AB cultures)
cabbage salad with shredded carrots
mint tea
6. SATURDAY
7.00 EARLY BREAKFAST: fruit juice or whatever fresh fruit you want
8-9.00 BREAKFAST: chamomile or rosehip tea
fresh cheese with flaxseeds
a whole wheat roll
11.00 SNACK I: a mandarin
12-14.00 LUNCH: bean stew
one slice of whole grain bread
15-16.00 SNACK II: an apple
18-19.30 DINNER: a boiled egg
bean salad or whatever salad you feel like
thyme tea
7. SUNDAY
Pick your own meal times, just make sure your last one is by 8:00 PM. EARLY BREAKFAST: fruit juice or fresh fruit of your choice
BREAKFAST: oatmeal with yogurt or skim milk
SNACK I: 2 to 4 dried fruits
LUNCH: turkey soup
roasted turkey drumstick
steamed cauliflower
steamed carrots
steamed broccoli
SNACK II: one slice of apple pie
DINNER: rosehip tea or whatever tea you like
Note:
It’s probably good to drink a glass of water on an empty stomach every morning
while standing up.
Drink plenty of plain water throughout the day.
Stay active every single day! Get out and walk regularly!
David Morris86 said:Hello to everyone visiting this page. My name is Vida, and I’d like to share some thoughts and experiences regarding pulmonary hypertension—a very rare condition... Along with this diagnosis, I also deal with rheumatoid arthritis and all the complications that come with it. I’m staying optimistic about my situation. How about you? 🙂😛🙂
I actually work in cardiology, so I know a thing or two about pulmonary hypertension.
I can definitely relate when it comes to RA, though. What kind of meds are you on—how long has it been since your diagnosis? Who's your doctor? Are your joints acting up much?
I'm on MTX, had my RA diagnosis a year ago, and I'm seeing Smith over at Rib!
Take care, and feel free to pop into the rheumatoid arthritis thread anytime!
loneorca25 said:I have blood in my urine—basically RBCs at 10-20
-white blood cells are also 10-20
-plus a lot of epithelial cells, mucus, and bacteria
I know the blood might mean I have kidney issues or something, but I'm only 17 and I don't have any pain anywhere there.
I've just had a fever for 4 days now...
Can someone explain if this is actually a problem?
-thanks so much.
That blood could just be from being near your period and getting "those" things. It happened to me once, and now I always have to do a urine test right in the middle of my cycle.
Honestly, I feel like she’s just playing all of you—maybe even the boss? Like, if she's his mistress or something, that would explain why he keeps her around. And look, if she was sick once, like twenty years ago, after seven years of being clear without any recurrence or metastasis, you're pretty much considered recovered. You don't really feel those chemo side effects that far down the road. Trust me, people who have dealt with cancer—or are dealing with it now—don't go around bragging about it. They're just happy they can actually show up to work and get things done. Being able to work means you're doing okay! I think she's totally faking it. I'm almost 100% sure of it!!!!
copperheron72 said:So basically, that’s $6917 regarding the exam and getting rid of the prescription.....😲
Hmm.... I'm really hoping someone else chimes in with their own experience, maybe there's a more affordable option out there than this one....... My partner is also counting down the days until she can finally see the world clearly with healthy eyes. When she isn't wearing contacts, her vision is pretty terrible. It's a constant struggle with the lenses, and the headaches happen quite often too...... Honestly, seeing all this makes me realize how lucky I am to not deal with those issues myself.......
Hmm....... Well, I'm just waiting to hear a few more stories before we decide on the where and how, but we are definitely moving forward with the surgery sometime soon.
Ask "Mikra" over in the systemic lupus thread—she actually just had her surgery a few days ago!!!
I honestly loved using Neutrogena T/Gel, $20 it works—but man, it takes forever!!! It totally cleared up my dandruff though!