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Dr Oksana Aron Medical Weight Loss Blog

Weight Loss Motivation. Weight Loss Results.

Dr. Aron brings you fun and important weight loss tips, exciting diet recipes, medical weight loss breakthroughs, and a steady source of weight loss motivation.

Her medical weight loss program provides real results for overweight and obese persons seeking non-surgical medical treatment, with lasting results.

Call now — 718-491-5525 or visit WeightLossNYC.com

Dr Oksana Aron Medical Weight Loss Center

7032 4th Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11209, Directions to office

Dr Oksana Aron - Actionable Weight Loss Tips

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Mar 23, 2024

Dr Oksana Aron brings you healthful insights and weight loss tips to motivate you to being your best.

Learn more about her medical weight loss program at WeightLossNYC.com

group beach selfie
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Fickle Foods that can Fool you

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Mar 11, 2024

Some Foods can be False Friends

Many tempting foods in marketed as low-fat or low-calorie, or even fat-free quite often can be counter-productive to your weight loss goals. Eating real, minimally processed foods is always the best option, along with maintaining a healthy active lifestyle.

Pro tip: Mix up your own healthy fruits into real yogurt

bowl of yogurt with berries
  • Flavored Yogurts

    With yogurts legendary health and wellness appeal, what could be wrong? The marketing spin on flavored yogurts (event low-fat ones) can present flavorful additions like sugary preserves and non-natural sweeteners. Even pro-biotic yogurts present more marketing spin than health benefits. As always, real the label — Look for low-fat Greek yogurt varieties without additional sweeteners.

  • Bagged Salads

    The convenience and comfort of a premade salad can’t be understated, just be mindful of the fillings — bacon or sweeted fruits and nuts, fatty cheeses and meats, plus high-fat salad dressing just negate any intent of Healthy and Salad.

  • Granola Bars

    So much confusion about healthy here. Along with shelf-stabilizers and other additives, consider many granola bars may simply be remarketed cookies. Consider DIY your own granola mix, so you know what is in it and it will taste so much better too. Try with apples and cinnamon or other takes, and make it fun and your own.

  • Coffee

    Coffee on its own is fine — our grind with coffee (sorry, we went there…) is the popular trend of creamy lattes and crazy toppings that just dose you with a big calories spike nobody needs to have.

Weight Loss Help

Visit WeightLossNYC.com to start working with Brooklyn diet doctor Dr. Oksana Aron, medical weight loss physican expert — to help you to lose weight where other methods have not. She will develop an actionable plan for you to start losing weight easily — schedule your first visit today.

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Michelle Kwan Bean Salad Recipe

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Mar 7, 2024

Diet DIY

You don’t need to be a chef to whip up easy meals like veggie stir fry in minutes. In fact, there are so many simple recipes you can innovate from core concepts and make them your own with your choice of ingredients and favorite spices. Make them once or many times, for one meal or pack them to go for work lunches or fun picnic fare.

Vegetable Stir Fry
Recipe Inspirations

Olympic Proportions

Skating legend @michellewkwan shared her favorite Bean Salad recipe on instagram recently:

I love a bean salad … it’s an easy meal that you can have you’re on the go … I also love throwing in the random vegetable that’s alone in the fridge. And it’s perfect when you have some extra quinoa or even bow tie pasta leftover.

Michelle’s Recipe

Many ways to vary this recipe, so can use this as a gentle guide.

Salad Ingredients:

  • 1 16oz can black beans
  • 1 16oz can chick peas
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/2 - 1 red onion
  • 1 green pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa

Instructions:

Mix ingredients into a bowl. Add italian dressing or seasoning of your choice, such as her own balsamaic vinaigrette

Balsamic Vinaigrette (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper finely ground
  • 1 large garlic clove minced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Yield: 1 salad
Tags: Vegan, Vegetarian friendly

Nutrition:

calories, grams fat

Comments

3468 Likes

Visitor comment: That sounds very good and healthy! Quinoa sounds good but I think I’d also enjoy it with brown basmati rice. Thank you for sharing!

More Weight Loss Ideas

More recipe ideas from this blog.

Visit Dr Aron Medical Weight Loss Center at WeightLossNYC.com and see how her medical weight loss program can work for you.

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3 Fatty Foods You Need in Your Diet

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Nov 20, 2023

Fat that does a body good

Believe it or not, fat is a healthy part of your diet. The trick? Choosing the right kind, which helps you stay full, prevent overeating and keep the weight off.

olives and olive oil
Weight Loss Magic

When checking the nutrition facts on your food, scan for “monounsaturated fat” and “polyunsaturated fat”—these are the good fats.

Stay away from saturated and trans fats, which cause weight gain, and can elevate your cholesterol and put you at risk for disease. (Saturated fats should be less than 10% of your calories.)

Add these foods to your diet for a healthy and delicious way to lose weight

  1. Olive oil—Not only a healthy source of monounsaturated fat, olive oil lowers bad LDL cholesterol and raises good HDL cholesterol.

    Try it: on salads and as a butter substitute

  2. Nuts—packed with protein, unsaturated fats and omega-3s, nuts are a perfect satisfying snack. All you need is a small serving each day of walnuts, pecans, peanuts, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, cashews or almonds (the size of a shot glass).

    Try it: mixed in with salads and steamed veggies

  3. AvocadoAvocados are high in heart healthy unsaturated fat, helping you feel satisfied. They may also help lower your LDL cholesterol by as much as 17 percent when consumed daily.

    Try it: on sandwiches and spread over toast

Do You Need to Lose Weight?

Get weight loss tips and a medically proven diet plan from Dr. Oksana Aron — Bariatric physician who can help you lose weight without surgery or fad diets. Call today at 718-491-5525 for your or book online at WeightLossNYC.com

Sources: CDC, Best Health Mag, help guide

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3 Great Tips to Fight Cravings, Lose Weight

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC

Avoid Unhealthy Habits

To lose weight, you already know what to do: eat right, diet, exercise, and the pounds will come off, right? It’s not always that simple.

Aside from making these healthy lifestyle choices, you need to address the psychological aspect of weight loss. It’s just as much a physical switch you have to make as a mental one.

Follow these 3 tips for your weight loss success:

fight food cravings
Beat Bad Food Cravings

Eliminate cravings

What’s your #1 weakness, the one treat that foils your dieting plans every time, guaranteed? Whatever it is, keep it out of your refrigerator or pantry to remove the temptation or craving.

Whenever you’re grocery shopping, skip the aisle if you can and certainly, don’t buy it! This is your first step in keeping the weight off and avoiding those vices that contribute to weight gain.

Avoid tantalizing images of bad food

Ever heard the term, “food porn?” Well, it’s called that for a reason. If you’ve ever salivated over a Pinterest board of ooey-gooey chocolate-chip cookies or drooled over a foodie blog’s Instagram of their latest dish while out on the town, you understand the danger!

Scientific research shows that viewing these images can actually make you feel hungrier—and overeat as a result. Instead, look at delicious images of healthy food to inspire your own homemade creations of health-promoting meals to make a healthier difference.

Swap bad cravings with good-for-you ones

It’s easy to say avoid unhealthy foods, but you may still crave them. Rather than deny yourself, satisfy those cravings in a healthier, savory way with alternatives.

If you realize the reason you crave a certain candy bar is because you want something salty or you crave the crunch of almonds, try a small handful of almonds or walnuts instead.

Rather than grabbing a fast-food burger, make turkey burgers with extra-lean meat ahead of time, topping it with fresh veggies in a variety of colors (how about leafy romaine lettuce, white onion, tomato, sprouts, and a little bit of avocado and mustard?) When you get home from work, it will be an easy leftover dinner night. Now that’s fast food, and you don’t have to wait in line for it, either!

Dr. Oksana Aron can Help, call 718-491-5525

Need help figuring out what’s healthy and what’s not? Get started on a weight loss plan that gets results, personally designed for you by Dr. Oksana Aron, by calling us at 718-491-5525 or book online via WeightLossNYC.com

Sources: her fitness hut; womens health mag

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Vegan Weight Loss

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Sep 18, 2023

Why Vegan?

Vegan diets have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including weight loss. Vegan diets are typically lower in calories and fat, and higher in fiber and nutrients than traditional diets.

vegan diet
Weight Loss Program

A study published in the journal Obesity found that people who followed a vegan diet for 12 weeks lost significantly more weight than those who followed a standard low-fat diet. The vegan dieters also had lower body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and waist circumference.

Similarly, a study in the journal Nutrition Journal, found that people who followed a vegan diet for 18 weeks lost significantly more weight than those who followed a vegetarian diet. The vegan dieters also had lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin levels.

These studies and others suggest that vegan diets can be an effective way to lose weight and improve overall health. If you are considering trying a vegan diet (or any diet) for weight loss, consult with Dr Oksana Aron to help you make sure that you are getting the nutrients you need and that your diet is safe and healthy.

Health Benefits

Some additional benefits of vegan diets for weight loss patients inclulde:

  • Vegan diets are typically lower in calories and fat. This can help you create a calorie deficit, which is necessary for weight loss.
  • Vegan diets are higher in fiber. Fiber can help you feel full, which can help you eat less.
  • Vegan diets are typically higher in nutrients. This can help you improve your overall health, which can make weight loss easier.
  • Vegan diets are more environmentally friendly. This can be a motivating factor for some people.

Nutritional Needs

If you are interested in trying a vegan diet for weight loss, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough protein, as most plant-based meals cannot provide enough protein. Protein is essential for weight loss and muscle building. You can supplement protein from a variety of natural plant-based sources, such as beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh.

For menstruating women, make sure you have enough iron. Iron is important for carrying oxygen in the blood. You can get iron from a variety of plant-based sources, such as dark green vegetables, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.

It is also important to include enough calcium. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. You can get calcium from a variety of plant-based sources, such as dark green vegetables, beans, lentils, and fortified foods.

Switching to Vegan

If you are interested in trying a vegan diet for weight loss, start slowly. Don’t try to change everything overnight. Make small changes over time, such as adding more plant-based foods to your diet. Discuss with Dr Aron — she can help you make sure that you are getting the nutrients you need and that your diet is safe and healthy.

Start or update your medical weight loss program now, view hours and schedule online at WeightLossNYC.com. With a little planning and effort, you can successfully follow a vegan diet for weight loss, or enhance your current diet plan to one more supportive of reaching your weight loss goals.

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Are Carbs Good or Bad?

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Sep 3, 2023

What are carbs?

A popular theme in weight loss is "cutting carbs" — but not all carbs are the same. In fact you need to eat carbohydrates as a regular part of your diet. So why the bad rap?

plate of pasta
Carbohydrates
There are two types of carbs—simple and complex.

Simple carbs have just two sugar molecules, and they are rapidly digested. …

Complex carbs have more sugar molecules and take longer to digest. [T]hey’re often paired with fiber and other nutrients…

Sugar: The simplest carb molecule is sugar, naturally found in fruits, vegetables, and dairy. Sugar molecules are named ending in -ose, so look for names like sucrose, fructose, lactose, etc.

Starch: A more complex unit made of many sugars is commonly called starch, found in grains, legumes and vegetables.

Fiber: As sugar is recognized to be a culprit in weight gain, here is the difference: Fruits contain fiber, which is the fundamental difference of eating fruits as juices vs whole. Fiber is the most desirable of carbohydrates, one should seek to maximize vs reduction of the other two, especially added sugars and worst being refined sugars.

The terms "low carb" or "net carbs" often appear on product labels. But the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t use these terms, so there's no standard meaning. Typically, the term "net carbs" is used to mean the amount of carbs in a product excluding fiber…

What to do?

Carbs are an essential part of your diet, so the goal is to go for the fiber - whole fruits and vegetables will fill you up and provide the most nutrition and meal satisfaction. Favor lower fat versions of dairy products, and introduce beans, lentils and legumes as a vegetable protein source free of saturated fat.

Carbohydrates and protein both contain 4 calories per gram, so it’s the portion size and type of carb that matters for weight gain.

Weight Loss Diet

Consult with Dr Oksana Aron at her Medical Weight Loss Center in Brooklyn for guidance on the proper diet for achieving your weight loss goals and overall health improvement.

Sources: Eating Well, Mayo Clinic

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What are your #Healthy #Habits

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Feb 22, 2022

Healthy Habits for You

It’s a great starter — talking about habits — good habits, and ones to go on. Reese had it right recently to post a short list of ones she seeks to maintain.

Dr. Aron also suggests you make your own list of motivations to give you self-guidance. What are some simple principles you strive to live by?

reese witherspoon
Reese recently shared some healthy habits she aspires
“Let’s talk about habits! Are there any that have improved your daily life? Here are some I’m working towards:
  1. Start the day with a big glass of water.
  2. Get 10 minutes of outdoor light…
  3. Spend 30-60 mins reading without distraction everyday.
  4. In bed by 10pm. *no late night TV binges. Try to get 8 hours of rest!”

Fast Facts

It’s a real game changer to drink water before coffee in the morning. It’s more than just another cup of water it’s a real hydration tip — your body hasn’t had any water until the night before.

After that? Well just keep drinking water all day, right?

10 minutes of [morning] light … we sure hope you’re getting much more than that, especially in winter.

Reading and Rest; well we’ve blogged often about getting enough sleep so you know we’re good with that one.

Next Steps

If you are looking to lose weight and having trouble on your own or with other methods, check out Dr. Oksana Aron and her Medical Weight Loss Program at WeightLossNYC.com

Get the real deal on how to lose weight quickly with physician supervision. Schedule your initial consultation now.

Sources: instagram @reesewitherspoon, flickr @GabboT, creative commons license CC BY-SA 2.0, image cropped blurred and text added

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How to Squash those Holiday Cravings

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Nov 25, 2019

Butternut Squash Healthy meals are easy

eat healthy vegetables

Filling up on veggies is a top rule for anyone wanting to eat healthier, yet that doesn't have to sound boring. Check your favorite produce store for winter squashes, including the amusing shaped butternut squash. Like its cousin the sweet potato, it's often overlooked as a starch, yet the orange interior reflects it is rich in beta carotene, which converts to vitamin A in your body.

One cup of Butternut Squash (cubed and cooked) yields 127% of the US RDA for Vitamin A, with 80 calories, 4g sugar, 21g of carbs. Far more favorable than mashed potatoes with (or without) gravy! Factor in the 7g of fiber and you're on your way to RDA daily mark of 25-30g fiber per day.

Beta carotene, as one of the team members of antioxidants, on its own offers many nutritional benefits. Butternut Squash also has ample potassium (more than the benchmark banana) plus 30% of your daily RDA of Calcium. Other minerals at hand include Iron and Niacin, along with Vitamin E.

Winter Wondering

Other winter squashes you can try - (measuring nutrients to the one cubed cooked cup)

  • Acorn Squash has more fiber and potassium, though less vitamin A than Butternut. 9 grams fiber per cubed cooked cup, potassium (896 mg).
  • Pumpkin Squash has both alpha and beta carotene. Alpha carotene also converts vitamin A in the body; Pumpkin Squash has twice as much of alpha than Butternut.
  • Spaghetti Squash is yellow and can even be used as an alternative to spaghetti. Lower in calories and carbohydrates than the other squashes mentioned here, but also lower in fiber. As a pasta substitute though, you'll consumer only 42 healhty veggie calories not pasta carb 200 calories.
Feeling Preppy

Summing it up with preparation, all of these can simply be sliced and roasted, with familiar spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, or clove or allspice. For easier prep you can often buy these pre-cut in stores, though caution on canned variants due to added sugars. You can even puree squashes to make satisfying soups and sauces too. Some folks even suggest smoothies, accompaniments such as apple, nut butter and soy or almond milk.

Hungry for More

Learn more healthy dieting and meal structures from Dr Oksana Aron at WeightLossNYC.com

Sources: Consumer Reports, Pexels

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She lost 60 lbs before her 60th birthday

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Jul 2, 2019

She’s lost 60 lbs before her 60th birthday — and heading for 20 more

Her kids now in college, she looked at what she wanted to be in this next stage of her life; With most of her 83 pound weight loss goal achieved she joyfully reflects on her healthy regimen with just 20 more pounds to go before her 60th birthday.

Prep School

She’s worked out a solid routine of three healthy meals a day without any mid-meal snacks. Obviously the early weeks were the most daunting, laying down the foundation for what has become her success story 8 months later.

Managing the daily challenges of real life setup some more obstacles in her path: managing the social obligations and even day to day cravings. She worked out some new strategies along the way to making better life habits and healthy choices.

Healthy Meal choices

Some of her magic spells include mashed cauliflower, and wine-free spritzers en verre

Congratulations!

Share your weight loss success story with us like Nancy did.

Images (c) 2018, Cite: Nancy Marland

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Food & Nutrition: Tomato Power and Pals

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Dec 1, 2016

Top Tomato Tips

healthy

Tomatoes are a very popular fruit, or vegetable… No matter how you slice it they are a very versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be enjoyed raw or cooked in so many ways including juice and sauces, grilled, and in salads. Also the variety of tomatoes from heath beefsteak to pop sized cherry bites give all the more encouragement to include them in your diet.

Some fun facts

  1. One cup of tomatoes can provide:
    • 8 percent of your recommended daily fiber intake
    • 15 percent of your daily B6
    • 12 percent of your iron
  2. Sorry oranges! One tomato can provide 28 percent of your vitamin C for the day
  3. Cooking tomatoes can provide the highest levels of lycopene, a nutrient known for many essential health benefits
  4. Hydration too: fresh tomato juice can provide antioxidant benefits, just caution on high sodium store bought brands. Eating raw tomatoes also can fill you up due to the high water content.

Healthy Buddies

Lentils

Adding cooked lentils to your tomato sauce can provide much needed protein (about 9 grams per half cup lentils) as well as iron. This also aids in making a heartier, more filling sauce without the negatives of other means.

Shredded Kale

Lightly cooked kale adds a big nutritional boost to any dish. Including into your tomato sauce a few minutes before serving can rock your vitamins A, C, And selenium, plus dozens more antioxidant flavonoids

What’s in your Diet?

If your are looking for healthier meal plan to help you lose weight fast without suffering, check out Dr Aron Medical Weight Loss Center at WeightLossNYC™ today.

Phone: 718-491-5525 or Web: WeightLossNYC.com

Some links to more of our tomato related blog posts

Source: Organic Connect

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Eat This Fruit and Lose Weight

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Aug 26, 2015

The Green Fruit

Avocado halved
Avocado Garden Salad

Got Avocado?

What’s in your brown bag for lunch? While packing a lunch can be difficult (a sandwich again?!), here’s one idea to switch things up a bit and : eating avocado with your lunch can aid weight loss. Here’s how:

An Avocado a Day Keeps the Hunger Away

Consuming up a half of an avocado can help you feel as much as 26% more satisfied and can even keep you from wanting to reach for an afternoon snack later on in the day, according to a study published in Nutrition Journal. Those in the study reported a:

  • 40% decreased desire to eat 3 hours after lunch, and
  • 28% decreased desire to eat 5 hours later

Just a little avocado a day can go a long way in eating a healthy diet without overeating.

What’s in an Avocado

A whole avocado contains 250 calories and 23 grams of fat, most of which is healthy monounsatured fat, which can reduce bad cholesterol levels. It may even be helpful in regulating blood sugar levels, which has yet to be investigated.

Any way you slice it, avocados can be healthy for you and boost your weight loss efforts. Try some in a healthy green salad or spruce up a boring sandwich with it and notice the difference.

Want to lose weight fast?

Become our next success story at WeightLossNYC™. No gimmicks or crash diets, just sound advice for healthy living. Give us a call at 718-491-5525 today.

Cite: MedicalNewsToday.com

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Dining Out Doesn't Have to Be Dangerous

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Jun 19, 2015

Weight Loss Tips for Dining Out

Nationwide statistics show Americans dining out for almost 1/3 of their meals, with almost 1/2 of their food budget spent at these establishments.[1]

Given our tendency to dine out, it is worthwhile to consider ways you can manage and maintain your weight loss dieting program on the go. Some simple guidelines follow, as well as some links to some of our more popular posts past:

healthy dining out

Simple Tips for Planning Ahead

  • Avoid unlimited buffets and junk food franchises. Salad bars are good if you choose the healthy staple items not the dangerous ones.
  • Cater to places with extended menus to help you find healthy choices you will like. Favor seafood and salad places for healthier fare. Soups can be good, but know what you are choosing. Ask.
  • Best to plan ahead to dine out instead of splurging on surprise outings. Consider reviewing online menu before going so you will know what you will have.
  • Focus on eating for nutrition, not as a social activity. Make reservations to manage your cravings and limit the temptations to drink and snack while waiting. You can even have some small healthy crudite before leaving home to settle your stomach.
  • Stay away from large portions and fried food places. Know what is reasonable for you to eat and enjoy with your diet.
  • Consider sharing entrees with friends to manage your portions. Don’s be shy about tossing aside bread and extra carbs. Send away any extra munchies the waiter puts on your table. Only eat what you intend to eat.
  • As always, start to drink water as soon as you arrive and while waiting for meal.
  • Ask your server about options — extra salad instead of a heavier side dish. Bring your own dressing if you want to be sure of low calories. Add veggies to your entree to fill you up and slow you down.

Power Tips — Know your Menu Vocabulary

  • Bad: Buttery, Breaded, Buttered, Fried, Pan-Fried, Creamed, Scalloped, Au Gratin.
  • Better: Grilled, Baked, Steamed, Broiled, Poached, Stir-Fried, Roasted, Blackened.
  • Avoid: Cream sauces, made with milk, mayonnaise, cheese or oil.
  • Look for tomato based sauces instead. Order all sauces on the side and use sparingly.

Follow Your Diet Plan

As always, follow the diet guidelines presented to you by Dr. Aron. She will have told you your calorie limits and suggested foods for you to enjoy and avoid. Fill up on water, salad and vegetables first. Focus on your friends more than the food. Slow down and pace yourself so you can enjoy your meal and not be left hungry and crave more. Your body also needs time to recognize the food in your system to trigger satisfaction. It is also more than OK to leave the table a little hungry. You never need to stuff yourself, be gentle to your body.

Looking for More Motivation to Lose Weight?

Align with Dr. Aron at WeightLossNYC™ and start losing weight today. Call 718-491-5525 or visit WeightLossNYC.com

Sources: [1] USDA, National Restaurant Association. Adapted from Sparkpeople

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The Truth about Hidden Sugar in your Diet #health #weightloss #nyc

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Dec 8, 2014

What’s the Health Risk?

Excess sugar can not only lead to weight gain, but you also have other health concerns to worry about. People who drink 1 to 2 cans of soda a day can increase their risk for Type 2 diabetes by 26%. Additionally, daily sugary drinks can also increase your risk of heart attack, death from heart attack and heart disease.

—Oksana Aron,M.D.
Bariatric Physician

The Not-So-Sweet Side of Sugar

We all know that sugar isn’t good for our health, waistline or teeth. But what we don’t know about it—including where it’s coming from—can be even more important. Additionally, many contain genetically modified sugars (GMO) and are often unlabelled as such, yielding further obscurity.

Consuming sugary drinks such as sodas and fruit drinks were once thought to be the main source of sugar in our diet, but the latest from the U.S. CDC shows that Americans are getting their sugar mainly from their food, not drinks.

Without knowing this fact, many people may be unwittingly be consuming a lot more sugar than they think and are scratching their heads as to why they can’t lose those last few pounds.

How sugar sneaks into your diet & How to prevent it.

Where’s the sugar?

A whopping 70 percent of added sugars in the American diet comes from processed foods such as:

  • Breads
  • Jellies and Jams
  • Cakes
  • Ice Cream

Where else is there sugar?

Some Less obvious sources of sugar in popular foods include:

  • Tomato Sauces
  • Salad Dressings
  • Condiments
  • Cereals
  • Multigrain Crackers

Healthy Tip

When checking the ingredients list on food packaging, make sure that sugar or its other names (such as high-fructose corn syrup HFCS or corn syrup, etc.) isn’t one of the first few ingredients. That way you’ll know that the food isn’t mostly sugar.

Medical Weight Loss Consultation

Lose the weight to reveal a healthier body. Stay motivated and keep the weight off with a healthy weight loss plan. Call 718-491-5525 to schedule your consultation with Oksana Aron, M.D., Bariatric Physician at WeightLossNYC™.

Sources: New York Times Well, Harvard School of Public Health, image phanlop88 of FreeDigitalPhotos

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How to Beat Winter Weight Gain (and Still Have Fun)

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Feb 3, 2014

Tips for Winter Weight Loss

While overeating and under-exercising in general is one sure-fire way to pack on the pounds, if you experience a minor slip-up, you can stay on track as long as you keep up with your exercise. Both exercise and diet are critical to your success, but it’s good to know you don't always have to be perfect.

Here are a few ideas for staying active and losing weight this winter season.

people eating french fries with ketchup
Even with setbacks you can get back on track

Stay Active and Smart

  • Get your family on board with planning healthier menus for gatherings
  • Only take a few bites of a dessert without overindulging
  • Plan to take a walk outdoors right after dinner
  • Create ways to burn extra calories such as walking laps around the mall while shopping sales or using the stairs several times a day
  • Go ice skating or play ice hockey for outdoor exercise
  • Get the blood pumping at the gym if it’s too cold outside

How to Enjoy your Holidays and Keep the Weight Off

Whether it’s Hanukkah or Halloween, Superbowl sunday or super-love Valentine’s day, temptations always exist.

Indulge in a few too many latkes?

Swipe a couple extra frosting-and-sprinkled sugar cookies?

Drank a little more eggnog than you’d care to admit?

You can still work Off the Weight

Celebrating the holidays doesn’t have to derail your new year weight loss resolution. A recent study published in the Journal of Physiology found that if you continue to exercise daily —even in short bursts— then your few extra nibbles won’t do much harm.

In a Bath University (U.K.) week-long study of 26 healthy young men, all were asked to overeat.

Half exercised for 45 minutes daily, while the other half remained inactive

The non-exercising group ate 50% more calories, while the exercising group overate by 75%.

The results: In just one week, the non-exercising group experienced a decline in blood sugar control. The exercising group, however, exhibited stable blood sugar levels. Additionally, “the activation of genes within fat cells in the non-exercising group were also found to be negatively changed to those levels needed for a well-functioning metabolism.”

Looking to improve your health and need some guidance?

of WeightLossNYC™ is here to help you reach your healthy weight loss goals. Call today at 718-491-5525 for your initial consultation. Make this year your year to shine.

Her clinic specializes in treatment of obesity or overweight persons, who have struggled to lose weight via other methods and are seeking medical help.

Cite: bath.ac.uk/news

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4 Excuses Preventing You from Losing Weight

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Jan 27, 2014

What’s your excuse?

Sometimes, the only person standing in the way of your own success is staring straight back at you in the mirror. How many times have you sabotaged your weight loss plans? How many times did you give up too soon?

You’re not the only one. Losing weight is just as tough mentally as it is physically. If you can get your mind in shape first, the rest of your body will follow. Do any of the following excuses sound familiar?

  • I’m too tired

    Did you know that regular exercise could actually boost your energy? Perhaps you need to kick it up a notch—or get started on an exercise regime—in order to feel refreshed and start losing some weight.

  • I don’t have enough time

    We always have more time than we think. How many hours a day do you spend watching silly stuff on YouTube? Reading the paper? Clicking through the channels? Swap those idle times for doing something healthy such as taking or learning to cook healthy food to set your weight loss goals in action.

  • I don’t want to get injured

    If you start off easy and take baby steps, there won’t be any need to worry about injuring yourself from light exercise. Try working out with a friend or family member and go at your own pace. Or, work with a trainer who can customize a workout for you.

  • It’ll be too expensive

    Eating healthier foods will save you money in the long run. Whole foods are cheaper than packaged, processed foods, and they'll keep you healthier, which means your health care costs will be cheaper as well. Special diet foods aren't required.

You don’t need a gym membership

If you can stay motivated and work out on your own. Walking, jogging, stair climbing, riding bikes and swimming don’t cost you a thing. You can also check out your local community center for low-cost fitness classes.

There are countless excuses that get in the way of losing weight. No matter what yours is, today could be the first day to a healthier life if you first switch to a positive attitude.

Don’t delay another day to improve your lifestyle and lose weight

WeightLossNYC will show you how to lose weight and feel great while you’re at it. Schedule your initial consultation by calling 718-491-5525 or visit our website at WeightLossNYC.com

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5 Food Swaps for a Slimmer You

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC May 2, 2013

Swap This, Lose That

shapely woman
Improve your diet

Looking for an easy trick to cut calories? Substitute some of your favorite foods with something just as delicious (or even more so) that’s less fattening. You’ll find yourself satisfied—and slimmer—in no time. These are a just few examples, but don't stop there. Always be on the lookout for other ways to swap something not-so-healthy for something that’s great for you.

Bye-bye, Orange Juice ~ Hello, Real Oranges

  • Eating an actual orange has 3 more grams of fiber and half the sugar of a cup of orange juice.

Adios, flour tortilla ~ Hola, corn tortilla

  • Swapping a 10-inch flour tortilla for a 6-inch corn tortilla can save a lot on calories and sodium.

Say No to the Sandwich ~ Say Yes to a Wrap

  • To cut calories, try a 100-calorie multigrain wrap instead of a sandwich with 2 slices of bread.

Ditch the Cinnamon Roll ~ Go for Raisin Bread instead

  • A better alternative for a sweet snack, try some raisin bread with low-fat cream cheese.

Skip Mixed Nuts ~ Opt for Trail Mix

  • Too large a serving of nuts can be fattening, but if you choose trail mix with the right heart-healthy ingredients, you can shave off some calories and fat.

Lose Weight Every Week

Small changes like these can help you lose weight, one pound at a time. Want to make a big change and lose even more? Please give Dr Aron Medical Weight Loss Center a call at 718-491-5525 for your first appointment.

Cite: CookingLight.com

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How to plan for a healthier business meeting

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Feb 1, 2013

business meeting

Stay healthy at the office

From birthday parties to business meetings, social events almost always involve food and lots of it. While we can’t get away from that fact, we can approach it in a healthier way. Here are some healthier ideas and alternatives for the next time you plan another business meeting or social gathering.

First on the agenda: Healthy meeting food

In business meetings especially, you need to be able to focus, but why do they feature sugary and fattening foods like donuts and pizza? Those who are trying to stick to a diet either give in to temptation or skip eating—neither of which benefits you. Instead, why not provide healthier foods and snacks so people can actually be nourished? Bonus: people will also be able to pay attention without suffering from a sugar crash.

The following are just a few tips and guidelines for healthier making healthier choices when planning for business meetings or any other kind of gathering:

  • Serve water, skim or low-fat milk, real fruit juice and unsweetened drinks
  • Present foods in halves and smaller portions
  • Offer real Fruits and Vegetables
  • Choose whole grain breads, pastas and cereals
  • Serve a max of 4 ounces of meat per serving
  • Always have a vegetarian option available
  • Instead of a heavy dessert, include something small such as fruit or a small cookie

If you still don’t know where to start, check out these healthy and delicious options below for inspiration.

Breakfast:

Oatmeal, Fresh Fruit, Veggie Omelets or High-Fiber cereals

Snacks and Refreshments:

Whole Grain muffin halves, Fresh Fruit and Veggie plate with Low-Fat dips, Whole Grain crackers and Low-Fat cheeses

Lunch or Dinner:

Mixed Green Salad with low-fat dressing, sandwich halves, broth-based soups, Veggie pastas with low-fat cheese and Tomato sauce, Steamed Vegetables

Weight Loss Plan

Get a structured weight loss plan and diet from Dr Oksana Aron of WeightLossNYC. If you’ve been struggling too long on your own, now’s the time to get real help. Call 718-491-5525 to make your first appointment with Dr. Aron, who will work with you one-on-one to help you achieve the results you seek.

Source: New York State Department of Health Center for Community Health

Image courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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5 reasons to cut back (or cut out) red meat

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Jan 26, 2013
Are you in the red?

Burgers. Bacon. Cold cuts. Hot dogs. What do these foods all have in common?

Plenty.

They're all red meats, for starters. They're also fattening--and they come with health risks. Below are some important facts that will make you want to cut back on red meat if you're serious about losing weight (and if you're concerned about how it relates to your life span and quality of life).

What is red meat?

In case you're wondering, red meat includes beef, pork and lamb, and recent research shows that eating red meat means you have a higher risk of early death.

Red meat health risks

It's not just your life span that's affected. There are many serious health problems that can occur from regularly eating red meats such as the following:


  • Saturated fat and cholesterol found in red meat are linked to coronary heart disease.



  • Eating processed meats such as bacon, sausage or hot dogs once a day can double your risk of Type 2 diabetes.



  • Heme iron, which is found in red meat, is associated with heart attacks and fatal heart disease.



  • Red meat may increase your risk of colorectal and other types of cancer.


By eliminating or limiting red meat in your diet, you make an important health decision that can almost instantly benefit you. Think of some healthy red meat substitutes--such as lean turkey or grilled mushroom--that satisfy your cravings, but don't present a major health risk.

Get started today on eating and thinking in a healthier way. Make your first appointment today with Dr. Aron at WeightLossNYC if you want to see results and start losing weight. Give us a call at 718-491-5525 and we'll be more than happy to help.

Sources: EverydayHealth.com; latimes.com


Image courtesy of bplanet / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Thanksgiving Survival Guide, from Oksana Aron, M.D.

Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Nov 19, 2012

How to Have a Happy Thanksgiving without Really Trying

thanksgiving is about the people you spend it with.

We’ve prepared this Thanksgiving Survival Guide* to give you ideas on how to best avoid overeating this Thursday, and keep yourself together on your weight loss program.

Abate Your Appetite; Trounce Temptation

The best way to battle any festival meal, where eating is the presumed focus, is to reduce your appetite thus obviously significantly lowering your temptation. You can follow these steps as guidelines to keep you on track with your diet plan.

Before You Go

  • As always, eat an appropriate breakfast as Dr. Aron has provided for your plan.
  • Be sure to include a real protein source to invoke satiety.
  • Keep up on your hydration. Drinking water will also help keep you feeling full.
  • Likewise, throughout the day, avoid alcoholic beverages for their dehydrating effects and of course insane caloric values.

Boots on the Ground

Once you’re there, keep it simple and safe:

  • Salad is always your friend. Enjoy the simple greens, not salads overladen with extras you know aren’t helpful to your diet.
  • Veggies, again mostly green, also round out your plate nicely and fill you up before looking further.
  • 4 ounce skinless white meat turkey as your meal protein. Keeping to the lower fat cut is the obvious choice.
  • Small samples of gravy or sauces for flavor are ok yet at a minimum. Avoid alcohol drinks entirely.
  • Small portion of potatoes or stuffing are better than breads and rolls.
  • Dessert? Only if you must, enjoy a small one. Better to enjoy a little more turkey, or better yet veggies/salad, we suggest.
“When facing the challenges of dieting during the holidays, remember to keep your focus on what’s really important — the people you’re spending the holidays with."

Remember Why You Came

Truly, the holidays are about getting together with friends and loved ones. Open your mouth more for the laughs and conversation, and keep the focus on the fun not the food. Think ahead when you get back home how much happier you'll be knowing you spent the day in conversation not in consuming unneeded calories.

Leftovers are Left for Others

You’re on a diet plan. You can leave them for others and keep the holiday meal behind as you walk out the door. Weather-permitting, keep on walking … and enjoy more conversation and fresh air as you move your body after a festival meal. When you get home, get back on your regular plan and keep the fond memories of the friends you enjoyed your holiday with.

Happy Thanksgiving, from Dr. Aron and Staff of WeightLossNYC

For more information on safe and healthy weight loss diet plans, visit our website WeightLossNYC.com and start losing weight, today.

*Thanksgiving Survival Guide, from Oksana Aron, M.D. is a copyrighted work by Weight Loss NYC® adapted from HRI Thanksgiving Success Plan. Image adapted from morgueFile.

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