Biggest Loser, Abby Rike’s “Life and Style” Cover Shoot

For all of you “Biggest Loser” fans out there (myself included), check out my favorite contestant, Abby Rike, eliminated on week seven of The Biggest Loser, and see what it was like to be a cover girl for Life & Style magazine, out now.
Want more Biggest Loser News, Click here for the scoop:
When asked what’s all the media attention like? Abby says “I just sit back and kind of giggle,”  “Everyone has been so kind and it’s so out of the ordinary for what my life has always been, but it’s been fantastic, completely unexpected, but so much fun.”
Abby has lost more than 80 pounds and says  “Different scales say different things!”   The 32-year-old teacher turned motivational speaker continues her weight loss journey and we are confident she will continue to reach her goals.  She said she put on a “ton of muscle” at the ranch but still wants to lose 15 to 20 pounds of fat to be at a “super healthy weight,” she said.
Here are a few of her favorite foods: “I try not to be a slave to the scale,” she said. “I eat super clean and work out super hard.” Some of her favorite go-to foods are carrots and hummus, low-sodium turkey breast, Greek yogurt and blueberries, which she calls her “fast food” that she can grab at any grocery store.
Abby became a fan favorite and touched viewers by sharing her tragic loss of her family in a car crash.  Abby tragically lost her two children and husband.  She is now sharing her story and motivating others to follow their dreams proving that it is possible even in the face of adversity.  What an inspiration….you go girl!

Credit: http://www.examiner.com/x-660-Weight-Loss-Examiner~y2009m10d28-Biggest-Loser-Abby-Rikes-Life–Style-cover-shoot-workout-and-diet-secrets-photos

“Fill Me In On Fillers” With Expert Dr. Randolph Waldman

This Week’s Question:
Many of my friends are talking about the injections they’ve received to look younger. I’m new at this and don’t have too much money to spend. Should I ask for a filler or a toxin or both and are they safe?

Expert’s Response:
Excellent question and something we are often asked by some of our new patients.  Actually Neurotoxins such as Botox and Dysport temporarily disrupt some of the small nerve endings that trigger facial muscle movement.  Specifically the muscles that create the vertical lines between the eyebrows , the muscles of that  give us the horizontal lines across our forehead, and the muscle that gives us the “Cro’s feet” lines are best treated with one of the neurotoxins.  On the other hand the lines and wrinkles involving our lower face and especially the area around the mouth are best “filled out and plumped up” with one the hyaluronic substances such as Perlane or Juvederm.  The great thing about these fillers is that they can be easily reversed by the injection of another medication.  We also can improve the shape and the volume of the lips with these fillers which is extremely popular in our practice.  As far as safety I would say that both are very safe and complications almost unheard of!  In our practice patients often have a filler and a neurotoxin injected at the same visit which results in a cost savings!

Answered By:
Board Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon Dr. Randolph Waldman at Waldman Plastic Surgery Center.

About: Dr. Waldman was born and raised in Lexington, Ky. After graduation from Henry Clay High School, he attended Indiana University and the University of Louisville School of Medicine. This was followed by a general surgery internship at Los Angeles County Hospital. It was during his residency training in Head and Neck Surgery at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic that he became interested in facial plastic surgery. After receiving A.B.M.S. Board Certification in Head and Neck Surgery, he elected to complete Fellowship training in Facial Plastic Surgery at Tulane University. While at Tulane Dr. Waldman spent a year with world renown facial surgeons, Dr. Jack Anderson and Dr. Calvin Johnson. During his fellowship Dr. Anderson began popularizing what became known as the “External Rhinoplasty”. To this day Dr. Waldman has the longest experience with this procedure of any living American Surgeon. Shortly thereafter he also became board certified in a second specialty, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

In 1983, Dr. Waldman elected to return “home” and open his own practice in Facial Aesthetic Surgery. He now has over twenty years of experience in Lexington. During those twenty years he also managed to write a number of articles published in scientific journals and has recently been the editor for two medical books on facial plastic surgery. Additionally he became very active in the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery chairing several committees and ultimately serving as Vice President of that organization.

Dr. Waldman is also on the Editorial Advisory Board for Plastic Surgery Products Magazine (PSP).

“Our goal at Waldman Schantz Plastic Surgery Center is to make the entire surgical experience convenient and comfortable for our patients and to achieve surgical results that look ‘natural’. If you have any questions while visiting our website, I encourage you to contact us using the information request form found on this website. I or one of my staff will provide an answer to your question within twenty-four hours. Of course, the best way to determine which solutions may meet your specific needs is a personal consultation with Dr. Schantz or myself in our office. We are available Monday through Friday and often have Saturday morning office hours as well.” – S. Randolph Waldman

Waldman Schantz Plastic Surgery Center
125 East Maxwell Street
Suite 303
Lexington, KY 40508
Phone: 859.254.5665
Toll Free: 800.270.3396
FAX: 859.281.6825
Contact us via email:
Main Office Administrator: admin@waldmanpsc.com
Consultation Information: patientcoordinator@waldmanpsc.com
Website/Technical Information: webmaster@waldmanpsc.com

Up Close with Fitness Celeb, Sheri Vucick

As part of a new series, I will be featuring a variety of Fitness Celebrities who are transforming the fitness industry with their talent, beauty, and amazing skills, to inspire those of you thinking about competing or making a change in your lifestyle.

To kick things off, I wanted to feature one of the best in the industry, this 3 time Fitness Universe Champion and mother of two is making history on and off the stage.

Name: Sheri Vucick

Age: 33

Claim to Fame: Fitness Universe Champion 2003, 2006 and 2008

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

How did you get involved in the fitness industry?
I got started in the fitness industry when I was 21 right after I had my first son Steven. I was a competitive gymnast until I was 17 and missed pushing myself and setting goals…I needed something, I’m a born competitor! So I started weight training put together a routine and a month later I did my first show and placed 2nd.  The feeling of accomplishment when I was on stage was like nothing I ever felt and the memories are something I will cherish for a long time.

Occupation: My husband and I run a Mixed Martial arts and Personal Training business called Ultimate Fighting and Fitness.

On your time…How do you balance your time between family, work, and your fitness career? Being a personal trainer makes things a lot easier. If there are days I can’t make it to the gym I just workout with one of my clients, they love it!  I do most of my cardio at home on my treadmill. I practice my routine 3x’s a week in the afternoon, Joey loves the kids area while the oldest is in school and I lift in the evening 5 days a week, which only takes about 45min. Sometimes it is a challenge to stay focused, especially with kids, however, I feel that I am leading by example and teaching my kids to live a healthy lifestyle.

In your fridge? Eggs, chicken, turkey bacon, lettuce, fat free cheese, Balsamic vinegar, fresh vegetables and lots of frozen veggies(always in a hurry), low fat cottage cheese,fresh fruit, natural peanut butter, spray butter, low sugar ketchup and 2% milk for the kids(they love cereal).

What keeps you motivated? My family keeps me motivated. Their unconditional love and support motivates me to do my best and make them proud.

What is your proudest moment? Besides having my two beautiful boys I would have to say winning the Fitness Universe title my first time there. I had always watched these shows on ESPN and was in aw of all the competitors, just hoping to crack top ten. When they announced me as the winner I couldn’t believe it….it was a something I had played over and over in my dreams and it was actually coming true, was so unexpected. Something I will never forget!!

Is there anything left that you still want to accomplish in the fitness industry? I have accomplished more than I ever thought possible.. these have been some of the most enjoyable years of my life. I feel very fortunate to have done so well and I know it would have been nearly impossible without the love and support from my family and friends. I am truly blessed!!!!

What advice would you offer to someone looking to compete?
I would ask lots of questions. Find someone who has competed before so they can give you advice and lead you in the right direction. Most important have fun!!!

We will miss seeing Sheri on the competitive scene this year as she is taking some time off.  Sheri says “Competing is my passion and it will always be a huge part of my life. I will continue to help others get ready to compete and live happier healthier lives.” We know Sheri will do just that and we can look forward to her return back on the scene in 2010 and I am sure as always, in true Sheri style, she will return to the stage with an amazing routine, perfect physique, and her beautiful smile.  Check out Sheri’s amazing “Terminator” themed performance from the Fitness Universe Show below:

Chocolate Banana Oatmeal

Chocolate Banana Oatmeal
Prep Time: 2 minutes, Cook Time; 5 minutes, Servings: 2

• 2 3/4 cup sugar-free reduced-fat chocolate milk
• 1 1/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 small banana sliced

1. In a small pot, bring chocolate milk to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add oats and stir and cook on low for 5 minutes.
3. Add in cinnamon and top with sliced bananas.  Serve immediately.

Calories: 230, Fat: 1.5g, Sugars: 5g, Fiber: 5g, Protein: 9g, Carbs: 35g

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My Real Life Transformation Story

My Real Life Transformation Story

In a new ongoing series, I will be featuring a variety of real people who have made lifestyle changes to better themselves or are helping to change the lifestyles of others.   Hopefully these stories will inspire you or your loved ones to make lifestyle changes to lead healthier and happier lives.

To start things off, I thought I would share my real life transformation story.  Contrary to what you may believe, I wasn’t always enthusiastic about working out or eating healthy.

Rewind back just a few years ago.  After I moved on from cheerleading, I took my fast metabolism and fast food habit for granted.  This quickly added up to extra pounds for me and at 5′ 4″, I struggled to find answers.  Faced with using diet fads and a lot of bad advice, I only achieved short term results.  Frustrated, I began to learn that long term results weren’t about unrealistic diets or hours at the gym, but instead lifestyle changes.  Once I started to understand how exercise and making conscious food choices complimented each other, I began to see positive results.  Don’t get me wrong, it was difficult to break my bad habits and cut back on Hot Tamales (my favorite candy), alcohol, and eating fast food but I slowly began to see how good decisions and an exercise routine during the week allowed me to reward myself on the weekends.  Over time the small changes in my new lifestyle formed habits that not only changed the way I looked but the way I felt as well.

Another big part of my success was finding a training partner, not only someone who motivates me in the gym but someone who helps me make good choices in the kitchen as well.  While you may not think that you have a friend to motivate you that is the purpose behind this series.  We can all learn from each other and find motivation in someone else’s story.  Everyone has a different story to tell and in time I hope you will tell us yours.

I hope you enjoy this new series.  Next week, I will be sharing the inspiring story of Sharon Simmons.  Learn how this 53 year old stays in shape and how she is leaving her mark on the fitness scene.

If you have a lifestyle transformation story to share or know of someone who does, please contact Brooke Griffin.

(Me, a few years ago)

Britney Spears Starts A New Diet

According to a colleague close to the singer, Britney Spears, has started a new diet.

The star, who only last month was claimed to be guilty of running up a $3000 bill at a Las Vegas sweet shop is changing her old ways and eating healthier.

Britney is busy preparing for the upcoming release of her career retrospective singles while spending time with agent boyfriend Jason Trawick.

GK Reid, who worked on the video for Spear’s new Single “3″, told the New York Post, “She exhibited amazing energy and was in great shape- her body looked better than it has in years.”  “She munched on sushi instead of junk food, and even sang live with the words.  She worked really hard and was really sweet to all of the dancers.”

Britney Spears, who recently reunited with agent boyfriend Jason Trawick, is believed to be preparing for the upcoming release of her career retrospective Singles Collection.

Let’s hope the diet she is on is filled with fruits and vegetables and is high in fiber.  Britney needs to make sure she is drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and eating smaller meals throughout the day to keep her energy levels high.

For more Britney stories follow Brooke on Twitter

Foods That Combat Fat

Foods That Combat Fat

Eat these foods to fight fat!  Studies have proven that these delicious edibles have proven fat-melting powers that you help you slim down and take the weight off.

Berries- According to researchers at Arizonia State University at Mesa, berries packed with vitamin C such as rasberries, strawberiies, and blueberries can help you burn nearly 30 percent more fat during exercise.
Mustard- Turmeric, the spice that gives mustard its color has been shown to slow the growth of fat tissues according to a study in the journal of Endocrinology.
Oranges- Oranges are packed full of flavones.  Studies have shown that women who ate the most flavones had a lower increase in body fat over a 14 year period, according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Almonds- Almonds help speed the metabolism.  Dieters who ate 3 ounces of almonds every day reduced their weight and body mass index by 18 percent compared with an 11 percent drop in the group that did not eat nuts based on a study in the International Journal of Obesity.
Cinnamon- Sprinkling cinnamon on food may prevent post meal insulin spikes.
Sweet potatoes- These yummy potatoes are loaded with fiber helping keep your body full and they do not cause blood sugar levels to spike like their white potato counterparts.

For more nutrition and fitness articles, Follow Brooke on Twitter

Slow Down Already

Slow Down Already

Want to avoid gaining weight this Holiday season?  Do two simple things: eat slower and leave the table before you are full.  In a new study, Japanese researchers looking at the eating habits of more than 3,000 men and women found that those who ate quickly until they were full were three times more likely to be overweight.  Here’s why, once you start eating, it takes your stomach nearly 20 minutes to tell your brain that it is full and has had enough.  If you are gobbling down your food as fast as you can, you have consumed a lot more calories than someone who eats slower by the time the message of fullness is delivered to your brain.  Try eating slower at the table by taking breaths and pausing between bites.  Also engage in conversation while eating and take a drink between each bite.  Before you have stuffed your self so full that your waist band is too tight, excuse yourself from dinner and go to the restroom or move to another area at the party.

For more weight loss articles, Follow Brooke on Twitter

Fitness Fights Diabetes

Fitness Fights Diabetes

Of course swimming, cycling, and running can help tone and tighten your body, but it can also protect your health for years to come.  According to new research from Northwestern University, women in their 20s and 30s who scored highest on a cardio fitness test were half as likely to develop diabetes in their 40s and 50s when compared to those who scored the lowest. The earlier you start exercising in life, the more you protect yourself from becoming overweight or obese which is a major risk factor for diabetes. Nearly 80 million Americans have diabetes or are at risk for developing it; reduce your risk by exercising 30 minutes a day at least 5 days a week.

For more fitness articles, Follow Brooke on Twitter

Spicy Pumpkin Soup

Spicy Pumpkin Soup

Prep Time: 5 minutes, Cook Time: 15 minutes, Servings: 4

4 Cups Fat Free Chicken Broth

1 Can Pure Pumpkin

1 Can Black Beans, drained and rinsed

1 Cup canned sweet corn kernels

1 Cup Medium Salsa

1 Tablespoon minced garlic

1/2 Teaspoon garlic powder

2 Teaspoons chili powder

1/2 Teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 Cup reduced fat sour cream

1/2 Cup low fat sharp cheddar cheese

1.  Spray a medium sized pot with non stick spray and set to medium heat.  Add broth and spices and bring to a simmer.

2.  Stir in pumpkin and mix well.  Add salsa, black beans, and corn and bring to boil.  Reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.

3.  Top soup with sour cream and cheddar cheese.

Calories: 197, Fat: 8g, Carbs: 34g, Fiber: 9g, Sugars: 8g, Protein: 10g

For more healthy and delicious recipes, Follow Brooke on Twitter

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