If you love holiday flavors, this cozy latte is going to be your new favorite. It blends warm chai spices with classic gingerbread flavor and the seasonal comfort of pumpkin spice. It tastes like Christmas morning in a mug!
Ingredients
A splash of heavy cream
Jordan’s Gingerbread Skinny Syrup
Jordan’s Chai Skinny Syrup
Pumpkin Spice Coffee
Skinny Mixes Caramel Sauce
Pumpkin Pie Spice
How to Make It
Add a small amount of heavy cream to your coffee mug.
Add a splash of Gingerbread Skinny Syrup and a splash of Chai Skinny Syrup.
Froth until it becomes creamy and fluffy.
Pour in your freshly brewed Pumpkin Spice coffee.
Drizzle with Skinny Mixes Caramel Sauce and add a dash or two of pumpkin pie spice.
This latte is warm, festive, and perfect for mornings when you want something special without heading to a café. It’s quick, simple, and full of cozy holiday flavor!
✨ Save on Skinny Mixes! If you want to try any of the Skinny Syrups I used, you can take 10% off your first order at skinnymixes.com using my code: BARIATRICLIVING101
It’s the perfect time to stock up on syrups for your protein coffees!
If there’s one thing I love, it’s starting my morning with something warm, cheesy, and full of protein. This simple omelet checks all the boxes — it’s fast, filling, and completely bariatric-friendly. Whether you’re fresh on your journey or years into maintenance, meals like this help keep you on track without feeling deprived.
Today I’m sharing the omelet I made in my latest video, and it’s honestly one of my favorite go-to breakfasts because it uses ingredients I always have on hand.
Ingredients
1 pat of butter
2 eggs
1 spoonful of cottage cheese
2 slices of ham, chopped
Shredded Colby Jack cheese
Shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
Heat a skillet over medium and add a pat of butter. Let it melt and coat the pan.
In a small cup or bowl, crack in two eggs and add a spoonful of cottage cheese. Blend or whisk until well combined and creamy.
Pour the egg mixture into your heated skillet.
Add in the chopped ham.
When the omelet is almost cooked through, sprinkle on some shredded Colby Jack cheese and allow it to melt.
Fold the omelet, plate it, and finish with a sprinkle of shredded parmesan for that extra cheesy zing.
Why This Omelet Works for a Bariatric Lifestyle
After bariatric surgery, making sure each meal has a strong protein base is key — and eggs are one of the easiest ways to do that. Mixing in cottage cheese not only adds creaminess, but also boosts the protein even more. Ham brings saltiness and texture, and the cheeses add flavor satisfaction without needing huge amounts.
It’s a balanced breakfast that feels indulgent but supports your goals.
Serving Ideas
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients
Pair with fresh berries
Enjoy it on its own for a light, filling, low-carb meal
Final Thoughts
This cheesy omelet is a perfect reminder that bariatric-friendly food can still be delicious, comforting, and satisfying. If you try it, let me know how you customize yours!
Today, I’m sharing a very personal piece of my past — my original 2018 introduction video from when I first talked openly about my health struggles and the road that led me to Sleeve Gastrectomy. As I relaunch my channel under Bariatric Living 101, I felt it was important to bring this video with me. It’s the foundation of everything I’ve learned and everything I share today.
My Health Was Declining, and I Knew Something Had to Change
Back in 2018, I was facing several developing health issues that were affecting my everyday life. I didn’t feel like myself anymore, and it became clear that something had to change. Bariatric surgery wasn’t an easy decision, but it was a necessary one — a medically supported choice to reclaim my health and my future.
Why I’m Sharing This Video Again
Many people who follow me now weren’t here in 2018. They may be just beginning their own bariatric journey or researching sleeve gastrectomy. I wanted to reintroduce this video to remind new viewers (and even myself) where this all started.
This video is raw, honest, and full of emotion — and it represents the moment I chose hope.
A New Chapter with Bariatric Living 101
Bariatric Living 101 is all about living a protein-forward, low-carb lifestyle after bariatric surgery. Today, I share recipes, tips, honest experiences, and real-life bariatric living — but it all began with the story you’ll see in this video.
Whether you’re researching surgery, newly post-op, or years into the journey, I hope this video helps you feel supported, encouraged, and understood.
Watch the Video
👉 Be sure to watch the full introduction on my YouTube channel and subscribe so you don’t miss the rest of my rediscovered videos from earlier in my journey.
If you’re comfortable, I’d love for you to share your story in the comments — you never know who your words might encourage.
During our vacation, we spent a day exploring SeaWorld, and it ended up being one of our favorite parts of the trip. I put together a little montage video to capture all the highlights — the animals, the shows, the rides, and the peaceful moments walking around the park.
SeaWorld is such a beautiful place to visit, and we loved watching the dolphins, sea lions, and of course the orcas. The shows are always so impressive, and no matter how many times you see them, they still feel magical. We also enjoyed simply taking in the scenery, grabbing snacks, and spending time together in the sunshine.
I hope you enjoy this video as much as we enjoyed the day itself! Sometimes it’s the little memories that mean the most, and this video brings them all together in one place. 💙🌊🐬
If you’ve ever been to SeaWorld, tell me your favorite part in the comments — I’d love to hear!
There’s just something about fall that makes you crave warm, cozy meals — and this Autumn Skillet Dinner fits the season perfectly. It’s packed with flavorful smoked beef sausage, sweet roasted vegetables, caramelized onions, and a simple garlic-butter sauce that brings everything together.
This dish is hearty, colorful, comforting, and comes together with simple ingredients. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it over jasmine rice like I did.
⭐ Ingredients
2 (10 oz) packages smoked beef sausage
3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large onion, sliced
2 (12 oz) bags Brussels sprouts
2 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
4 oz butter
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt, Pepper, and Paprika to taste
🍽️ Instructions
1. Prep & roast the veggies
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Add them to a baggie with a drizzle of olive oil, plus salt and pepper. Shake until coated, then spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Microwave each bag of Brussels sprouts for about 30 seconds — just enough to soften slightly. Slice them in half, add to a baggie with olive oil, salt, and pepper, shake, and place on the same baking sheet.
Bake the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts at 400°F for 30–45 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden.
2. Brown the sausage
Slice the smoked beef sausage. Add a drizzle of olive oil to a skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Caramelize the onions
Add the sliced onion to the skillet with the drippings from the sausage. Add a little more olive oil if needed. Season with a pinch of salt and cook until caramelized. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the garlic butter sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir until fragrant. Add the butter and let it melt, creating a buttery garlic sauce.
5. Combine everything
Once the roasted veggies are done, add them to the skillet along with the caramelized onions and browned sausage. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in the butter sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
6. Serve & enjoy
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it over jasmine rice for a heartier meal.
If you make this Autumn Skillet Dinner, be sure to tag me — I love seeing your recreations! 🍁
We are finally back home from vacation, and today felt like the perfect day to ease back into my normal morning routine. After traveling, eating differently, and being out of my usual rhythm, a simple high-protein breakfast always helps me reset.
This morning I wanted something quick, easy, and protein-forward to start my day off right. I made my go-to breakfast (just like I showed in the video!) and took a few minutes to chat about our trip while settling back into home life.
Even after vacation, getting back on track doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. I always remind myself to focus on one meal at a time. A nourishing, protein-focused breakfast makes all the difference in how the rest of my day goes.
Traveling is wonderful, but coming home to routine is comforting in its own way. I’m excited to get back into the kitchen, create more recipes, and share more bariatric-friendly meals with you all.
If you’re just getting home from a trip too, give yourself some grace and start small — one choice at a time. You’ve got this! 💙
✨ Don’t forget: Use Code: BARIATRICLIVING101 at skinnymixes.com to get 10% off your first order!
There’s something extra magical about Christmas coffee flavors, and the moment I spotted the new Sugar Cookie Jordan’s Skinny Syrup at my local Bealls, I knew exactly what I wanted to make. This iced coffee is simple, delicious, and completely guilt-free — perfect for anyone living a bariatric, low-carb, or sugar-conscious lifestyle.
The best part? You only need a few ingredients, and you probably already have most of them on hand.
⭐ What You’ll Need:
1 Caramel Coffee K-cup, brewed over ice
Jordan’s Sugar Cookie Skinny Syrup (the star of the show!)
A splash of heavy cream for richness
A dash or two of Salted Caramel Salt
Ice + a good stir!
🎅 Why I Love This Recipe
It gives you that warm, cozy Christmas cookie flavor — but in a refreshing iced drink! It’s perfect for mornings, afternoons, or anytime you want a little holiday pick-me-up without the sugar.
This recipe aligns perfectly with my protein-forward, low-carb lifestyle, and it’s a great option for anyone who loves festive flavors without the guilt.
✨ Where to Find the Syrup
I stumbled on the Sugar Cookie flavor at Bealls, so definitely check your local store. You can also explore more holiday flavors online through Jordan’s Skinny Mixes at http://www.skinnymixes.com. Be sure to use my code: BARIATRICLIVING101 to get 10% off your 1st order.
☕ Try It & Share!
If you make this iced coffee, I’d love to hear what you think! Share your pictures or tag me — let’s celebrate the season with delicious, bariatric-friendly coffee creations.
Traveling is one of my favorite things—new places, new foods, visiting friends and family, and stepping outside of the normal daily routine. But when you’ve had bariatric surgery or you’re trying to maintain a protein-forward, low-carb lifestyle, vacation can feel a little intimidating.
The good news? With a little planning and a few simple habits, you can stay on track and fully enjoy your trip. These are the exact tips I used on my recent vacation, and they made all the difference!
1. Pre-Plan Your Food for the Road
Before leaving home, I always pack protein-forward, travel-friendly snacks so I’m never stuck without options. Things like protein shakes, jerky, cheese sticks, low-carb snacks, and even my portable Ninja blender help me stay consistent.
Packing a few staples also prevents those “last-minute drive-thru” decisions that can happen when hunger hits. When your protein is covered, everything else becomes easier.
2. Enjoy a Picnic at Rest Stops
One of my favorite parts of road trips is stopping at a rest area with my husband, spreading out our little cooler, and having a healthy picnic.
Fresh air, shade trees, a little walk to stretch your legs—it’s such a peaceful way to break up the drive. It also keeps us from stopping at fast-food restaurants where choices can be more tempting.
It’s simple, budget-friendly, and keeps you in control of your food choices.
3. Prioritize Hydration (Especially Because of Swelling!)
Traveling—especially long car rides—can make you swell. That’s why staying hydrated is so important. I always bring my refillable water bottle and pack plenty of sugar-free drink packets so I can make flavored water anywhere.
Hydration helps: ✔ Reduce swelling ✔ Keep you energized ✔ Prevent mindless snacking ✔ Support digestion
It’s such a small thing that makes a huge difference in how you feel on vacation.
4. Don’t Skip Your Vitamins + Supplements
Just because you’re out of your routine doesn’t mean your vitamins take a vacation! I pack all of mine in a travel organizer and make it part of my morning ritual—even while away.
Travel tip: If you ever forget your prescription or can’t get it refilled before your trip, you can call a local pharmacy where you’re staying. They can contact your pharmacy back home and transfer the prescription for you (as long as you’re in the area for a few days).
5. Make Smart Choices While Eating Out
Eating at restaurants is part of the fun of traveling—but it doesn’t have to throw you off track. My husband and I almost always share a plate, which helps with portion control and reduces waste.
I choose protein-first meals like: • Grilled chicken or steak • Seafood • Bunless burgers • Veggie sides instead of heavy carbs
You don’t have to be perfect—just choose the best option available and enjoy the experience.
6. Most of All… Enjoy Your Vacation
This is the part people forget: you are allowed to enjoy your trip. You’re allowed to relax, taste new foods, spend time with people you love, and take in the sights.
Staying healthy doesn’t mean missing out—it just means being mindful and making choices that support how you want to feel.
Travel is about memories, not macros.
Final Thoughts
With a little planning and a few intentional habits, staying on track during vacation becomes much easier. Pack your protein, hydrate, bring your vitamins, choose wisely at restaurants, and embrace the moments that make traveling special.
You deserve to feel your best—no matter where you are. 💛
Even on vacation, you can stay healthy, protein-forward, and deliciously satisfied! While staying at my brother’s house, I whipped up this Butter Toffee White Chocolate Mocha Protein Coffee using just his Keurig and a few of my favorite ingredients.
This drink is creamy, sweet, and feels like a coffee shop treat — without all the sugar.
☕️ Ingredients
1 K-Cup of roasted coffee
Ice
Splash of Jordan’s Butter Toffee Skinny Syrup
Splash of Jordan’s White Chocolate Mocha Skinny Syrup
1 Nurri Vanilla Protein Shake
Heavy cream
Jordan’s Toasted Marshmallow Skinny Syrup
Salted Caramel Salt
🥤 How to Make It
Brew your K-Cup coffee and pour it over a cup of ice.
Add a splash of both syrups.
Pour in your Nurri Vanilla Protein Shake and stir.
Froth heavy cream with Toasted Marshmallow Skinny Syrup for a fluffy cold foam.
Pour on top and add Salted Caramel Salt.
✨ Save on Skinny Mixes!
If you want to try any of the Skinny Syrups I used, you can take 10% off your first order at skinnymixes.com using my code:
👉 BARIATRICLIVING101
It’s the perfect time to stock up on syrups for your protein coffees!
🌟 Perfect for Travel
This recipe proves you can stay consistent while traveling. All you need is a Keurig, a protein shake, and your favorite syrups.
If you love Mississippi Pot Roast but want a version that’s a little more hearty, veggie-forward, or family-friendly, this one is for you! I made this on vacation and it turned out absolutely delicious. Instead of using pepperoncinis, I swapped in a full blend of vegetables for a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth roast that practically makes itself.
Everything goes straight into the crockpot — no searing, no prep work, no fuss. After cooking low and slow for 10 hours, the roast becomes so tender and flavorful that it falls apart with a fork. The vegetables soak up all the buttery, savory goodness from the ranch and au jus mix, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chuck Tender Roast
Red Potatoes
Onions
Celery
Baby Carrots
Ranch Dressing Mix
Au Jus Mix
Water
Butter
Instructions
Layer the vegetables in the bottom of your crockpot, place the roast on top, sprinkle the ranch and au jus packets, add water, and place the stick of butter right on top. Cook on low for 10 hours and enjoy the most comforting, fall-apart roast!
This recipe is perfect for busy days, cozy weekends, or anyone who loves easy dump-and-go crockpot meals. It also works great for meal prep — leftovers taste even better the next day.
Bariatric Living 