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3 Healthy Snacks to Bring to a Super Bowl Party

January 31, 2017 by

The 2017 Super Bowl is right around the corner, and football lovers all over the country are gearing up for the big game.

Between coordinating game day screening locations, rounding up your friends and family, and making sure your team jersey is washed and ready, you’ve got a lot to think about.

That’s why we thought you might like a few ideas on healthy snacks to bring to your Super Bowl party.

After all, aside from watching the game go down and all the commercials, food is the most important part of the event, right?

We think so!

Regardless of whether you love watching the game, or are just going to the party to enjoy the socialization and atmosphere, we know these snack recipes won’t disappoint.

Give them a try…

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Hot, salty, delicious French fries are a staple game day food for many people. Keep the game day tradition going strong with this heathier version of baked sweet potato fries.

Packed with Vitamins C and A and plenty of dietary fiber, this is a snack that is sure to please.

Ingredients:

  • Sweet potatoes (approximately 1 per guest)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:

#1 Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

#2 Cut four sweet potatoes into 1-inch-wide wedges, place flesh-side down on a roasting pan, then brush with a mixture olive oil, chili powder, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt.

#3 Cook, turning once, for 20-25 minutes.

#4 Remove pan from oven and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt.

Tip: Make the switch from savory to sweet by cutting out the chili powder and salt, and sprinkling your fries with cinnamon and sugar.

Recipe Source: http://www.rd.com/health/healthy-eating/healthy-snacks-for-adults/

Chocolate-Covered Fruit

There’s no better way to cheer your favorite team on to a sweet victory than by eating a sweet snack during the game.

Fruit is a great snack choice to bring to a party because it’s sweet, refreshing, and contains lots of vitamins that are good for the body. The best part—because it’s so healthy, you can score a touchdown with your party guests by covering it in decadent chocolate.

Ingredients:

  • Fruit of your choice (we recommend a variety of strawberries, pineapples, and berries)
  • Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate (or all 3!)

Directions:

#1 Skewer fruit on wooden skewers (or your implement of choice).

#2 Melt your desired chocolate in microwave or over the stove.

#3 Dip fruit in chocolate.

#4 Set in fridge to chill.

#5 Serve when chocolate coating is hard.

Tip: Not everyone likes chocolate-covered fruit. To combat this problem, skewer your fruit and then serve your chocolate sauce as a fondue so people can coat their fruit in chocolate as they desire.

Turkey Snack Wraps

This year, skip the fast food hot wings and serve delicious, flavor-filled snack sandwiches at your party.

These wraps, filled with fresh turkey and veggies, are the perfect Super Bowl finger food. And because they are fresh and healthy, your party guests will be able to indulge in other party treats without any guilt. [Link to ]

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen (thawed)
  • ½ cup chopped fresh tomato
  • ¼ cup chopped soft sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar or cider vinegar
  • 8 thin slices low-sodium deli turkey
  • 4 8-inch whole-wheat tortillas
  • 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce

Directions:

#1 Combine corn, tomato, sun-dried tomatoes, oil and vinegar in a medium bowl.

#2 Divide turkey among tortillas.

#3 Top with equal portions of the corn salad and lettuce.

#4 Roll up.

#5 Serve the wraps cut in half, if desired.

Tip: To remove corn kernels from the cob, stand an ear of corn on one end and slice the kernels off with a sharp knife. One ear will yield about ½ cup kernels.

Recipe Source: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/250292/turkey-corn-sun-dried-tomato-wraps/

Do you have a favorite healthy snack recipe? Share it below!

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Ask the Doctor- Can I use extra skin to save reconstruction?

January 27, 2017 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I had my surgery in 2012 , double reconstruction. I had Bariatric surgery in 9/2006. I have continued to lose weight. Now under 130 lbs, my breast are sort dwindling away. Is there a way to take all of the extra skin I have on my arms and thighs to save my reconstruction?

Answer:  There is probably some way to use at least some of the tissue you describe, but we may have to get a little creative. One potential option would be to harvest fat from the involved areas to graft into the breasts, then excise the extra skin. It also may be possible to transfer the thigh tissue as another flap, but that would obviously be much more involved. If you would like to come for a visit, we can evaluate you and carefully consider the options.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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Safe and Easy-to-Make Cleaning Recipes

January 24, 2017 by

Most people do their best to eat nutritious meals, exercise, and go for regular medical check-ups to ensure they stay healthy. All of this is great, but there is one more thing we should be paying attention to in order to live a healthy lifestyle.

That thing is the products we use to clean our homes.

Although people buy cleaning products with the best intentions—to clean their home and eliminate germs and bacteria—they sometimes don’t realize that the harsh ingredients in the products they purchase can do more harm than good.

To combat this problem, we’ve put together some of our favorite safe and easy-to-make cleaning recipes. These recipes will ensure that your home stays clean while also making sure that you aren’t negatively impacted by harmful commercial cleaning products.

Check out the recipes now…

All-Purpose Cleaner Recipe

Everyone needs at least one solid all-purpose cleaner in her cleaning arsenal. This recipe can be used on any surface (kitchen, bathroom, floors, etc.) and will leave your home smelling fresh and clean.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp. borax
  • 1/2 tsp. washing soda
  • 1 tsp. liquid castille soap
  • Essential oils of choice. I use 4 drops lemon, 4 drops lavender and 10 drops orange
  • Glass spray bottle for storage

Instructions:

#1 Place borax, washing soda and soap in a spray bottle (preferably glass).

#2 Add 2 cups of warm water. Distilled is best, but any water that has been boiled will work. Cover bottle and shake well. Use as needed. I use as bathroom cleaner, floor pre-treater, kitchen cleaner and on toys to disinfect.

Recipe Source: http://wellnessmama.com/756/homemade-all-purpose-cleaner/

Laundry Detergent Recipe

For many people, laundry is a weekly chore. For that reason, having a safe, all-natural laundry detergent recipe that you can whip up from home is important. Keep your family’s clothes safe and fresh with this recipe.

Ingredients:

  • Washing Soda (Arm and Hammer Brand available at most stores)
  • Borax Powder
  • Bar Soap (Dr. Bronner’s, Ivory, or other natural, unscented bar soap)

Note: Washing Soda and Borax should be available at your local grocery store on the laundry aisle. Natural bar soaps are in the health, beauty, or organic sections of the store, or online. You can also add a couple tablespoons of baking soda to help freshen clothes.

Instructions:

#1 Grate the bar soap or mix in food processor until finely ground.

#2 In a large bowl, mix 2 parts washing soda, 2 parts Borax and 1 part grated soap. (Add a few teaspoons of baking soda if desired).

#3 Store in closed container. I keep mine in quart or half gallon mason jars. If you are using a big enough container, you can just put all ingredients in a storage container or jar and shake.

#4 Use 1/8 to 1/4 cup per load of laundry.

Recipe Source: http://wellnessmama.com/462/homemade-laundry-detergent/

Natural Oven Cleaner Recipe

Most people regularly clean their countertops to keep surfaces clean for food prep. There is one place food goes that people don’t think to clean on a regular basis—your oven. Try this easy recipe to keep your oven clean.

Ingredients:

  • Baking Soda
  • Water

Instructions:

#1 Spray water inside of oven with a spray bottle.

#2 Sprinkle a ¼ inch layer of baking soda inside oven.

#3 Let sit for 2-3 hours. Do NOT turn on your oven.

#4 Wipe clean

Recipe Source: http://wellnessmama.com/211/natural-oven-cleaning/

 Do you have an easy-to-make cleanering recipe you love?

Share it in the comments!

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Ask the Doctor- Would I be eligible for reconstruction?

January 20, 2017 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I will be having a prophylactic mastectomy for PALB2 mutation. I am interested in DIEP natural breast reconstruction but I have had mesh umbilical hernia repair. Would I be eligible for this surgery? Are there any tests that would be needed to find out if my vessels are any good in my abdomen?

Answer:  Thank you for your question. Yes and yes. It is still very possible you could have a DIEP. It depends on several other factors. The specific test I would order for my patients in similar scenarios is an MRI angiogram. The test is very specialized and very helpful. Let me know if you have more questions.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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10 Ways to Fight Cabin Fever This Winter

January 17, 2017 by

The winter months can seem to drag on forever–especially if you live in a climate where you’re stuck inside due to freezing temperatures and snow. Even here in Charleston, SC, January can seem to drag on forever.

After weeks of being cooped, up you may begin to feel the effects of cabin fever.

The good news is that there many things you can do to combat that awful restless feeling when the weather just won’t cooperate.

This year, don’t let the snow, ice, or cooler temperatures keep you from enjoying the things you love. Instead, we suggest you put together a list of indoor activities you can do to avoid cabin fever…for you and your family.

Need some ideas? Not to worry. We’ve put together a few of our favorite things to do during the winter months. Keep reading to check them out.

Visit a Friend 

Between the hustle and bustle of work, taking care of our children, and getting chores around the house done, we don’t often have as much time as we’d like to spend with our friends.

If you find yourself sitting inside your house on a blustery Friday night with nothing to do, call a friend and make plans to hang out.

Not only will visiting a friend get you out of the house, but spending time together will be sure to warm both of your hearts.

Tip: Really beat the winter blues and plan a trip to visit a friend who lives in a warm place, like Florida! Or better yet, plan a trip with your girlfriends to visit a tropical destination together.

Go to the Movies

A big screen projector, the smell of delicious popcorn in the air, and the excitement of watching a new movie make going out to the movies a really fun activity.

Put together a list of movies you want to see, and then pick a day to go out and see one with your friends or family.

There’s nothing wrong with going to see a movie by yourself either. It’s important to be able to treat yourself and have a “you” day every once in a while. Grab a package of your favorite candy, purchase tickets to that chick flick you’ve been dying to see, and enjoy!

Volunteer

Organizations and charities need volunteer help as often as they can get it, especially during the cold winter months.

Warm the stomach of a person in need by making hot meals at your local soup kitchen, volunteer to help wash clothes at a homeless shelter, lend a hand to someone who’s battling cancer, or show the animals at a pet rescue some love.

No matter what cause you’re passionate about, there’s always something you can do to help.

Bundle Up and Go for a Walk

Sometimes all it takes is a 30-minute walk to break you out of your cabin fever slump.

As long as your roads aren’t icy or dangerous, grab a winter coat, hat, and scarf, bundle up, and head outside for a walk.

Tip: Start a weekly winter walking group with your friends. Pick a time once a week to meet up, encourage each other to get outside, and walk together at your local park or in one of your neighborhoods.

Go to a Sporting Event

If you love basketball, football, or other winter sports, now is the time to pick up a ticket and go see your favorite team live in action.

If you can’t travel or afford to see your favorite professional team play, I recommend that you check out your local college or farm teams. Tickets to college or farm team games are generally cheaper, but come with just as much fun.

To make a night out on the town to watch your favorite sport even more fun, invite family or friends along. Pick up some team jerseys (or make them yourself at home) and enjoy an exciting night out together cheering on your favorite team!

How do you combat cabin fever? Let us know in the comments below.

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Ask the Doctor- Can you provide relief for my discomfort?

January 13, 2017 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: Due to a family history of breast cancer I had a bi-lateral subcutaneous mastectomy with saline implants, all in one surgery. The result was not good. My chest muscles did not stretch/relax, the implants did not drop. Not only are they misshaped they are painful, in that my chest feels tight. My surgeon went into my arm pits and cut the muscles in several places to relieve some of the restriction. There was no relief.

I have indentions in my breasts from that procedure. Using my arms, lifting, vacuuming, etc. is sure to produce more discomfort. I have gained some weight, and wonder if I could use my own fat, including implants to relieve this discomfort and regain some measure of self confidence. In thinking back, I have missed so many things because of the discomfort as well as feeling like a freak, I have absolutely been depressed.

I was widowed in my 30’s,and had this surgery shortly after my husband suddenly died from a MI. I had two young children to take care of and had this surgery as a prevention. My result was so poor…I have never accepted a date. Your opinion will be appreciated. Thank you.

Answer:  Thank you for your question. I’m sorry you are having problems with your breast reconstruction. Specifically regarding your question there are possible options that could help. It is possible that using your own fat and moving your implant from below the chest muscle to above the chest muscle could help improve your result.

One drawback to implants over time is that your body can develop more scar as time goes by. This scar can make the new breasts hard and cause tightness. Some people will not do well with implants because they make more scar than normal. In that case it may be better to rebuild both breasts without implants.  This procedure is more complex but includes removing the implants repairing the chest muscle and rebuilding the new breast with fatty tissue from another part of the body that has extra fat.

I cannot tell you what option is best for you without more specifics about your medical history and previous surgeries. If you would like more information let me know my staff would need to contact you for the details.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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5 Classic Books You Should Read This Year

January 10, 2017 by

As the new year begins, most of us make lists of things we’d like to do differently this year.

For you, it may be going to the gym, eating healthier, or volunteering more often. Or maybe you want to travel more, finally sign up for yoga, or not work weekends. While these are all wonderful goals, we suggest you also add exercising your brain to the list.

Instead of sitting in front of the TV this year, we encourage you to pick up a book. What better way to exercise your brain than to sit down and read a few classics.

To make it easy for you to get started, below are our top 5 recommendations.

Book #1 – Great Expectations

Great Expectations is Charles Dickens’ 1861 classic novel about an orphan named Pip and his journey from poor orphan to power and wealth, the friends he gains and loses, and his eventual humbling.

The stories and lessons you’ll learn in this book will last you a lifetime.

Book #2 – Treasure Island

Treasure Island was written by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1883.

This book tells the story of Jim Hawkins, a boy living with his parents at their inn, whose life is changed when he encounters a sunburned sailor singing, “Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum!” at his family’s establishment.

If you like stories about adventure, pirates, treasure, and sailing the Seven Seas, this book is certainly for you.

Book #3 – Little Women

Little Women is Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 “coming of age” novel set during the American Civil War and follows the lives of four sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy.

If you’re a bold, fierce, and courageous woman, you will get a kick out of everything these girls, and their mother, Marmee, encounter throughout this heartwarming book.

Book #4 –  The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby was written by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1925.

This novel takes place in the midst of the glitz and glam of the Roaring Twenties and is narrated by a character named Nick Carraway—Gatsby’s neighbor. Nick tells the story of the many incidents that take place in the home of the rich and famous Mr. Gatsby.

If you love history, this book will easily transport you back into the early 1920s and give you a firsthand look at all crazy things that went on during parties and other social events that were hosted by the wealthy upper class.

Book #5 – Gone with the Wind

Gone with the Wind, written by Margaret Mitchell in 1936, is by far one of the more classic pieces of literature around. Chances are you’ve seen the movie. If you haven’t read the book, it’s a must!

This book details the life of Scarlett O’Hara, a wealthy Southern belle, who lives on a large plantation in Georgia. The plot twists when Scarlett’s family loses all of their wealth, and she is forced to make a decision between marrying for love or for wealth.

This book contains a little bit of everything and includes storylines rich in history, romance, and life lessons.

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Ask the Doctor- Is it possible to have expanders then radiation?

January 6, 2017 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question:  I had a double mastectomy May 24, 2016. My treatment was 5 rounds of chemo and I have completed 9 of 30 radiation treatments. My radiation oncologist had told me that reconstruction can’t be done until 1 year post radiation. I was to start reconstruction at the time of mastectomy but due to 1 positive node that was not done. That was devastating to wake up to that news. I wanted to know if that is true since I have read that a lot of women get expanders and then have radiation. I want reconstructed as soon as it is possible. Any information would be appreciated.

Answer:  I’m sorry things have thus far not worked out ideally, but there is still an excellent chance you can have a satisfactory reconstruction.

Expanders are often put in at the time of mastectomy, whether or not radiation is anticipated, with the goal being to complete expansion before the initiation of radiation. After you are radiated, expansion becomes much more difficult, so much so that many surgeons (including us) will not even attempt it.

The good news is, radiation does not in any way impact our ability to do reconstruction with your own tissue (typically with DIEP flaps, sometimes with sGAP or other flaps). While most surgeons wait for 6 months after the completion of radiation to do flap reconstruction, it can sometime be done successfully as early as one month, depending on how healing is progressing.

I would be happy to call and discuss your situation in more detail if you wish, and thank you very much for your question.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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Fun Winter Activity Ideas

January 3, 2017 by

When you think of winter, you may think of cold weather, snow, and hibernating until the temperatures get warm again. We don’t blame you—especially if you live in a region where temperatures often fall below freezing and stay there until spring.

If you’re cooped up in your home, you tend to miss out on some of the most fun activities winter has to offer.

This year, we challenge you to brave the cooler temperatures and have some fun—whether it be with your girlfriends or with the entire family.

From Minnesota to Florida, fun seasonal activities can be found everywhere. So, strap on your snow boots or slip on some flip-flops, and try out a few of our favorite winter activity ideas.

Ice Skate

Ice skating is an activity that can be done anywhere with a skating rink. If you live in a warm climate, find an indoor skating rink near you.

Chances are you have a community rink used for hockey or figure skating. If not, keep your eye out. Often, during the winter months, many communities set up skating rinks for everyone to enjoy.

If you live in a colder environment, you might be able to find an outdoor rink to enjoy—either natural or man-made.

Note: If you choose to use a natural ice rink and skate on a frozen pond or lake, be sure to test the ice to ensure it’s solid enough to skate on. Always skate with friends nearby in case of an emergency.

Ski

Skiing is one of the most popular winter activities. The only downside is that you must live in an area that has snow.

This is no problem for the northern half of the country. Places like Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Montana, and Colorado are filled with ski hills you can try out.

If you live in a warmer climate without snow and are able to take a vacation this winter, consider visiting a ski resort for a ski trip, and give it a try.

For those that have never skied before, we suggest you take a few lessons before you hit the slopes. All ski resorts have ski instructors that will gladly teach you how to make it down a snowy mountain safely.

Host a Movie and Hot Chocolate Night

There’s nothing better than curling up on the couch with a warm cup of hot chocolate to watch a movie on a chilly winter night.

Keep an eye on the weather, and the next time a chilly day blows through, invite your friends or family members over for a movie night. And don’t forget to have plenty of warm blankets available for all of your guests.

Tip: Go above and beyond serving plain hot chocolate, and set up a hot cocoa bar. Toppings can include anything from marshmallows and chocolate chips, to caramel sauce and candy canes.

Take a Hike

If you’re lucky enough to live in a colder climate, frosted trees and sparkling snow make the winter season a beautiful time to go outside for a hike. Round up a group of your best girlfriends, bundle up, and hit the trails for a day of fun in the woods.

Take this winter activity to the next level by renting snow shoes. These specially designed shoes allow you to walk across snowy paths with ease.

No snow where you live? No worries. There’s no reason you still can’t hit the trails. The best part about taking a winter hike is that you won’t have to worry about heat exhaustion or dehydration. So, go out now and enjoy the weather while it lasts!

Cook Warm Comfort Foods

When the temperatures drop, it’s the perfect time for cooking warm comfort foods such as soups and stews.

This winter, pull together your favorite warm and delicious comfort foods. Then when an extra chilly day rolls around, do some cooking.

If you’re making a large pot of soup or a recipe that makes a lot of servings, invite your friends or family members over to enjoy a meal together. Better yet, make it a potluck and ask people to bring a side dish to complete your meal.

There is nothing better than sharing a hot meal with the ones you love.

What’s your favorite winter activity?

Share it in the comments below.

Filed Under: Health and Wellness