The Celebrate Blog

Grilled Mahi Mahi with Chimichurri Sauce

August 24th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Chimichurri is a classic sauce and condiment in Argentina and Uruguay. It’s a versatile sauce that pairs well with mild proteins like seafood chicken or steak! You can also use it as a topping on grilled veggie!...

Watermelon Salad

July 26th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Watermelon season is in full swing and there is nothing more refreshing on hot summer days than this crisp and fresh watermelon salad! It's great to keep in the refrigerator for lunch or have with grilled chicken for a quick and easy dinner!...

Mango day Lassi

July 12th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

In Indian Cuisine, a Lassi is a yogurt-based drink, and Mango is a classic choice! These drinks are creamy and refreshing and with our version, you'll also get an extra boost of protein!...

Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers

June 30th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

It's barbeque season! Turkey is a great lean alternative to beef, just make sure you're looking for extra lean, or 97% lean turkey in the grocery store. Using a lettuce wrap instead of a bun is also a great way to reduce carbs and up your veggie intake for the day....

Berry yogurt parfait

June 21st, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

This quick and easy breakfast checks all of the boxes – fast, high protein, low sugar, packed with fresh fruit, and most importantly: so yummy!...

Chocolate Nice Cream

June 7th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Have you tried protein nice cream? It's a great high protein alternative to your favorite treat! Try switching up the flavors to put your own spin on things!...

Essential Exercise After Bariatric Surgery: Tips for a Strong Recovery

June 6th, 2022

Lifestyle

It's well known that exercise, whether or not you've had weight loss surgery, leads to a change in body composition. But did you know there are even more beneficial effects of exercise?

Probiotics After Bariatric Surgery

June 6th, 2022

Lifestyle

Probiotics are specific strains of bacteria that are healthy and important for our bodies. This good bacteria plays a vital role in human health. Learn what in particular makes probiotics beneficial after bariatric surgery.

Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

May 5th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

May 10th is National Shrimp Day! What better way to Celebrate this fun day than with grilled shrimp lettuce wraps! Shrimp is a great source of protein and is also high in Vitamin B12, zinc, copper, and omega-3s....

Garlic Day Avocado Toast

April 19th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

It’s National Garlic Day and there’s no better way to highlight garlic than to make Garlic Confit! The garlic is cooked low and slow until it becomes soft and spreadable. You can use it on vegetables, in mashed potatoes, or as a lighter substitute on garlic...

Quinoa and black bean burrito bowl

April 5th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Happy National Burrito Day! We took our spin on a bariatric-friendly burrito bowl that can be customized to fit your macro needs!...

Sauteed Cabbage

March 15th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

If you’re looking to lighten up your St. Paddy’s day menu, this sauteed cabbage is a great addition! It’s very easy to prepare and is great for...

Irish Cream Coffee Shake

March 15th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Traditional Irish Cream coffee is made with Irish Whiskey, but after surgery, that might not be an option for you! Our spin on Irish cream coffee makes sure you get all of the rich flavor of Irish coffee, minus the alcohol, and with the added protein bonus!...

Lighter Shepherd’s Pie

March 6th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic dish in Ireland and screams cozy, comfort food. Traditional recipes generally call for lamb/beef, a decadent gravy, and rich mashed potatoes. Our recipe is a little different and lighter but still keeps all of the warm and cozy flavors you love! Lighter...

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Shake

February 25th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Chocolate covered strawberries aren't just for February! This shake is the perfect combination of both flavors and is a great wait to change up your daily protein shake!...

Bariatric Diet After Surgery: Post Op Eating Tips

February 1st, 2022

Lifestyle

You have been prepping for the big day for months-maybe even years. Now that you bariatric surgery has occurred, it's time to begin your post-op diet and the rest of your life!

One-Pan Tex-Mex Chicken and Zucchini

January 28th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

A Low-carb addition to your taco Tuesday line up. This recipe is a great weeknight meal and comes together really quickly! The best part is – you only need one large skillet to...

Roasted Vegetable Salad

January 28th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Starting fresh with new goals this year? This salad is a great addition into your weekly recipes! Its hearty and filling and packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals, and flavor!...

Moroccan Spiced Chicken Meatballs

January 28th, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

Moroccan food is known for being bright and flavorful with different spices, textures, and Mediterranean ingredients. If you’re looking to try a little bit of their culture these meatballs are the perfect start! They’re quick to make for an easy weeknight dinner and the leftovers are even...

Adolescent Bariatric Surgery

January 17th, 2022

Lifestyle

80% of adolescents aged 10 to 14 years will remain obese into their adult years. Similar to treating obesity in adults, there are many different treatment options for adolescents, including bariatric surgery.

Mocktail – Sparkling Cranberry Mule Mocktail

January 1st, 2022

Bariatric Recipes

After your surgery, your doctor likely told you to avoid alcohol because it can cause complications. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still have a fun mocktail at party’s this year! This drink combines all of your favorite holiday flavors into one! Want to add some extra vitamins too? Add Celebrate Essential 3 in 1 into a shaker with your cocktail to...

Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?

January 1st, 2022

Lifestyle

When considering bariatric surgery, one may wonder if they meet the requirements. There are several different things to consider when it comes to undergoing a bariatric procedure. And remember, having surgery isn’t the "easy way out." While having a bariatric procedure is the most helpful tool to lose weight, it is still just a tool. Every successful patient still puts in the effort to eat right, exercise, follow up with their surgeon, take their vitamins, and attend support groups to maintain weight loss. Clinical guidelines are updated every few years to keep clinicians up to date on the best bariatric practices. Included is an explanation regarding who is a candidate for bariatric surgery. If an insurance has bariatric coverage, they develop their own criteria on what must be met to receive coverage. Your physician's office will most likely be able to give you details on your personal insurance, but it is always helpful to call and get the criteria yourself. That said, patients...

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites

December 31st, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Coming up with appetizer ideas is always a struggle... But we’ve got you covered! These cucumber bites are perfect for your next holiday party! Don’t like smoked salmon? No problem – top your bites with sliced cherry tomatoes or a small piece of crispy...

How to Use Protein Supplements Long Term After Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery

December 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

In the initial phases of bariatric surgery post-operative care, protein shakes are commonly used to help patients reach their protein goals. As time goes on and patients can eat more solid foods, the use of protein shakes tends to decrease for most. While this is okay, it’s also okay to continue using protein shakes daily to hit your protein goals. How can you best use protein supplements on a long-term basis after you have completed your bariatric weight-loss surgery? Why is Protein Important Long-Term After Bariatric Surgery? Protein is important long-term to help ensure fullness and satiety, and aids in maintaining fat-free mass (muscle mass) while losing fat mass or maintaining your fat mass loss. One study by Lopes Gomes, et al. found whey protein supplementation helped post-RNYGB patients lose more fat-mass, with no change in fat-free mass, compared to the intervention group that did not supplement with whey protein.1 How Much Protein Do You Need? According to the 2019...

Protein Buckeye Cookies

December 4th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

If you’re not from Ohio, you may know these cookies as “chocolate peanut butter balls” but here they’re only known as Buckeyes! They’re a holiday tradition, but this recipe has been altered just slightly to meet the needs of our patients – Give them a try on...

Frozen Hot Chocolate

December 3rd, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Looking to put a wintery spin on your protein shake? This shake is the perfect winter treat! The perfect combination of chocolate and frosty mint – this shake is bound to be your new favorite!...

Intermittent Fasting after Bariatric Surgery

December 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Intermittent fasting (IF) has quickly become one of the world’s most welcomed approaches  to weight loss, overall health, and simplifying life. Studies have shown it can have powerful effects on your body and brain, and it may even help you live longer (1,2). Some find following an IF regimen easier than a traditional calorie-restriction approach (3). IF's concept seems to be divisive, so it's important for us to take a closer look at the research and define the good, bad, and unknown, including whether it's a practice that should be recommended to weight loss surgery patients. What is Intermittent Fasting (IF)? IF is defined as an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. Typically, the types of food eaten are not specified; rather, the eating time is specified. Two common intermittent fasting methods are daily 16-hour fasts and fasting for 24 hours, twice per week (3). Fasting for a certain number of hours each day (or eating just one meal a couple days a week)...

Turkey Breast Roulade

November 24th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Only having a small group of people for thanksgiving? A whole turkey may seem daunting and complicated. Making a smaller portion of turkey is a great option! This recipe utilizes a boneless turkey breast with loads of fresh herbs, garlic, and a little spice! Prep time: 30...

Wild Rice Stuffing

November 22nd, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Wild rice stuffing is a high fiber spin on a thanksgiving classic. It’s loaded with fresh veggies and packed with flavor. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving Dinner! Prep time: 20...

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Snack Bars

November 15th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

A classic combination to combat your midday hunger! These Chocolate peanut butter snack bars are packed with protein and fiber to keep you full and focused throughout your day! Prep time: 15...

“Salted Caramel” Bliss Balls

November 15th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Short on time and need a great snack to take with you on the go? These Salted Caramel Bliss Balls are the perfect snack time treat! With only a few ingredients these are easy to make and most importantly, taste great! A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top adds the finishing touch! Prep time: 15...

The Best, highest Quality Protein Powders for Shakes

November 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Protein is essential for a healthy body. It feeds our organs, supports bodily functions, keeps us full, and builds muscle. To consume enough protein, many of us turn to protein supplements. With protein shakes/powders saturating the market, how do we know what to choose? Which brand is best? Which form of protein is best? There's whey protein, soy protein, egg protein, pea protein, and more! Let's look at how to tell what are the highest-quality protein powders from others and make the best choice. The first thing to consider when choosing a protein supplement is what type of protein the product is made from, which can be overwhelming. Whey protein concentrate is one of the most available sources of protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, which makes it a complete form. Additionally, it breaks down quickly and easily for digestion. Whey protein isolate is considered high quality. It's a purer product, less processed, and is lactose-free, which makes it a better option for more...

What Is a GMP Certified Supplement?

November 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

What is the difference between dietary supplements and pharmaceutical drugs? Both come as pills, capsules, liquids, and more. Both are taken for health purposes. Because both go into our bodies, one would think they would be regulated the same, but this is not so. One significant way they differ is in their regulation by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). According to the FDA, dietary supplements include products like "vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbs or botanicals, as well as other substances that can be used to supplement the diet."1 They can be taken for a number of reasons specific to the dietary ingredient included in the product, but the most common objective is to replace any gaps in nutrition in the diet or to optimize wellness. All dietary supplements should be discussed with your doctor due to the risk of drug-nutrient interactions and potential adverse effects.  A healthy dose of caution is warranted with supplements, but that’s not to say there is no...

Frozen “Boo-nana” Ghosts and Mummies

October 29th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Make a tasty treat for the scariest of holidays! This Halloween, let your spooky spirit show in the kitchen. With only a few ingredients, we’re going to make delicious ghosts and mummies. From a base of bananas and Greek yogurt, this recipe is a fun and sweet treat you can enjoy without guilt while pursuing your...

Chicken Tortilla Soup

October 21st, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

What’s the best part about the weather cooling down? Soup of course! Celebrate recipes are all about combining great flavor with healthy dishes. With the right ingredients, anyone can make healthy meals packed with both flavor and nutrition. In this recipe, evoke beautiful flavors and fuel your life with healthy and delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup! Prep...

Vitamin D Deficiency Pre- and Post-Bariatric Surgery

October 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Pre-Operative Period Vitamin D is integral in maintaining normal calcium levels by aiding in absorption. Individuals who are obese have greater fat mass, so more vitamin D is required to maintain normal concentrations, due to the fact that vitamin D is segregated in adipose cells1. Peterson et al. noted a deficiency rate of 71.4% out of 58 patients studied, with the majority of deficiency presenting in minority races. Melanin concentrations in the skin present as a risk factor for vitamin D deficiency, with increased concentrations providing a greater risk due to the fact that melanin inhibits vitamin D synthesis1. Another study showed 89.7% of patients had 25-OH-D levels below 76.0 nmol/l, 61.2% below 50.0 nmol/l, and 25.4% below 25nmol/l. As BMI increased across the study population, the rate of vitamin D deficiencies also increased2. Post-Operative Period There is evidence that suggests weight loss procedures can cause a negative effect on bone mineral density, accelerate bone loss, and increase...

Pumpkin Spice Protein Shake

October 7th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

If you’re looking for your coffee shop favorite but with a lot less calories, and a lot more protein – Look no further than our new favorite Pumpkin Spice...

Stuffed Acorn Squash

October 5th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Squash is another fall classic that we can’t get enough of! It’s mild flavor makes it endlessly versatile and its packed with nutrients, is low-carb, and is very filling! You can even try switching up the flavors in the filling to put your own twist on the...

Cinnamon Baked Apples

October 4th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

It is officially apple season! If you're looking for a quick, easy, and healthier apple recipe to add to your Autumn recipe collection, look no further than this flavorful and cozy recipe!...

Dental Problems After Bariatric Surgery: The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Oral Health

October 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Any surgery brings risk and potential complications. Bariatric surgery is no different, and complications include but are not limited to dumping syndrome, hernias, ulcers, bowel obstructions, and gallstones. There is a hidden complication that hasn't received much press or even research, yet still exists: dental problems and oral health issues after bariatric surgery. Little is known about oral health concerns post-WLS; first, let's look at the research that has piqued many patients and professionals' interest. What we know: The current literature is quite limited concerning dental manifestations after bariatric surgery. It has been found there is an increase of dental erosion, increased dental caries, and increased dental hypersensitivity post-operatively. Dental erosion is defined as the irreversible loss of dental hard tissues by a chemical process without bacterial involvement. The acid in the foods and drinks we consume as well as gastric acids from vomiting and reflux can lead to...

Thiamin (Vitamin B1) Deficiency Before and After Bariatric Surgery

September 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Pre-Operative Deficiency Thiamin plays an important role in energy metabolism (through the metabolism of glucose) and cell functioning in the body; it's essential for tissues and organs to function properly. A thiamin deficiency can lead to cardiac and neurological abnormalities1. Thiamin is not stored in large quantities in the body. The half-life of thiamin is only a few weeks, so dietary and supplemental intake is imperative. Food sources that contain thiamin are whole grains, meats and seafood, and fortified foods, such as breads and cereals; for some foods, many patients are not able to obtain them within their financial constraints. In a study by Flancbaum et al, preoperative deficiency rates for thiamin are noted to be 29%, with Hispanic and African American patients having higher prevalence of thiamin deficiency (47.2% and 31%)2. Likewise, another study conducted on over 300 patients in the pre-operative phase for bariatric surgery found forty-seven (15.5%) of the study participants to have...

Essential Guide to Bariatric Calorie Intake for Effective Weight Loss - Celebrate

September 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Bariatric surgery is a life-saving procedure, from which you will lose weight, reduce your co-morbidities, and look and feel better. But in order to be successful long-term, you will have to change your diet. It sounds easy enough, but is it? Change is difficult, especially for those who have spent much of their lives without a healthy relationship with food. Having goals and a plan in place is essential to managing this change.Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG), and Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) surgeries alter how the stomach handles food, creating restriction, malabsorption, or both, which means you will ingest less calories over time. After surgery, you will be given a post-surgery meal plan, and you will slowly increase your food intake as you progress through the various diet stages. The bariatric diet is a critical nutritional plan for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery, emphasizing the types of food and caloric intake...

Lunch Prep – Shrimp and Quinoa Taco Bowls

August 25th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Prepping your lunch for the week is a great way to stay on track with your nutrition goals and helps to save time and money throughout the week! Eating the same thing every day for lunch might seem a little boring, but when it's a flavor packed, fun recipe like these shrimp taco bowls you'll look forward to your lunch every day! Prep...

Bariatric Surgery and Diabetes

August 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Studies have shown being overweight is a major risk factor in developing type 2 diabetes. Roughly 30 percent of overweight people have diabetes, and 85 percent of diabetics are overweight. (1) Looking at these numbers, your first question might be: how do we lower our risk of diabetes? Well, the first strategy is weight loss. This is where bariatric surgery can come into play in the treatment, and even resolution, of type 2 diabetes. How can bariatric surgery resolve, manage, or treat type 2 diabetes? The quick answer would be weight loss. After bariatric surgery, patients lose more weight, faster than with traditional methods. Typically, patients lose about 25% of their weight after bariatric surgery. This weight loss helps us obtain better glucose control and decreases insulin resistance. In addition, when we look at patients with type 2 diabetes, 87% achieve at least better glucose control and need fewer antidiabetic medications, and an average of 78% achieve normal glycemic control...

How To Combat Dehydration After Bariatric Surgery

August 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Why it's Important Our bodies are made of about 50-70% water! At least half of our body weight is water, so it's no wonder our bodies need it to function properly. Proper hydration helps support joint health, rids waste from the body, supports the elasticity in your skin, promotes cardiovascular health, boosts energy, and supports satiety (which can help with weight loss). Overall, when your body is hydrated, you will feel the difference! After bariatric surgery, drinking enough fluid can be challenging, due to decreased stomach size, adverse taste changes, and time constraints (you cannot eat and drink at the same time). This puts patients at a greater risk for dehydration. Dehydration is one of the most impactful complications after bariatric surgery and one of the leading reasons patients visit the emergency department and/or are readmitted within the first three months after surgery.1 A study looking at behaviors before and after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy...

Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri

July 21st, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

Flank steak is not actually a steak at all! It's cut from the belly of the cow so it's not only an extremely lean cut of meat, but it's also really flavorful! Combined with a classic Argentinean Chimichurri sauce this meal is great for a quick week night meal, or can be dressed up for special occasions! To make sure your steak turns out perfectly - be sure to cut the steak against the grain!...

Health Benefits Associated with Weight Loss

July 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Obesity continues to be a major challenge, nationally and globally. However, the prevalence of obesity in the United States is higher than in any other country1 Obesity brings with it several risk factors, including type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea, PCOS, chronic kidney disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and many more. That said, co-morbid conditions and even the rate of mortality can be decreased with minimal to moderate weight loss. On an even brighter note, with most co-morbid conditions, the greater the weight loss, the greater the improvement! Let's take a moment to look at a few co-morbid conditions and show that even a little bit of weight loss can make improvements. When it comes to everyone's weight loss journey, seeing and celebrating the non-scale victories are just as important. Weight Loss Effects on Type II Diabetes Losing weight can help prevent and improve type II diabetes. Even a modest, 6.7% weight reduction has been shown in...

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Kebabs

July 8th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

This teriyaki sauce is so simple and flavorful to make you'll never want to buy it from the store again! It lasts up to 3 weeks in the fridge and can be eaten on chicken, salmon, pork, or used in a veggie stir fry! The sauce paired with these chicken and pineapple kebabs is a match made in heaven....

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Before & After Bariatric Surgery

July 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Why do many bariatric patients need to watch for vitamin B12 deficiency either before or after bariatric surgery? Chances are you already know bariatric patients need higher doses of certain vitamins after surgery. Changes to the digestive system after surgery that limit calories also limit vitamins and minerals from being absorbed. What are these changes, and how common is this issue? For vitamin B-12 specifically, there are a couple factors that contribute to the importance of getting enough from your post-op vitamin regimen. What is Vitamin-B-12 and Its Role B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin naturally found in most animal products, such as meat, dairy, and eggs. It's also found in fortified foods like bread and cereal. B-12 is required for forming red blood cells, neurological health, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause: Megaloblastic anemia Fatigue Neurological issues Numbness Tingling of hands and feet Impaired balance Memory loss Despite most adults getting plenty of B-12 from...

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

June 24th, 2021

Bariatric Recipes

It's strawberry season! Whether you're growing strawberries in your yard, or just grabbing them from the store, right now they are at their sweetest and most nutritious. These strawberry oatmeal bars are low in added sugar but packed with flavor! They're a great dessert to bring to cookouts or road trips because they travel really well!...