Composition Of A Good Nutrient Rich Diet

For the human body to function well, it should be fed a good balance of vitamins and nutrients. There are three primary macronutrients which we consume namely protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Without these, our body won't be able to function properly. Since we cannot synthesize vitamins in sufficient quantities, they must be obtained from dietary sources. We also need several minerals for our body to function smoothly. Calcium and phosphorous, for example, aside from being important in the strengthening and lengthening of your bones are needed by your heart to pump efficiently. Salt, aside from adding flavor to your dishes, contain sodium and chlorine which help in maintaining fluid balance and producing digestive juices, respectively.

Mineral salts are ionic in nature, they help regulate pH levels in our blood and body. Maintenance of proper pH levels is crucial for the proper functioning of the body, a balanced supply of necessary mineral nutrients ensures that natural pH balance is maintained. There are also minerals which you require in lesser amounts of such as iron, iodine and zinc. While only minute levels are required, several ailments will emanate from not being able to meet the recommended dietary allowance overtime. You can get both macrominerals and trace elements from dietary sources. If your diet is deficient is essential nutrients, taking dietary supplements on a regular basis is recommended.

Beside mineral nutrients, the body needs water, you need to keep your body hydrated. 6 to 8 glasses of water a day is more than sufficient for the average person, if you have an active lifestyle, your requirement will be higher. Taking the adequate amounts of fluids is essential for the growth and maintenance of your body. It is also important in the elimination of unneeded and harmful substances from your system. Alkaline water, called so because of its slightly alkaline pH, is believed to benefit the body by reducing blood acidity.

This trend is brought about by the heightened awareness of the public to alkaline water benefits. The manufacturers of alkaline water additives claim that the regular consumption of alkaline water protects against cancer and may even slow down aging. Also called ionized water, this water preparation is mineral-rich and consequently keeps the blood pH at a neutral state. It is believed that certain food items, most notably carbonated drinks and junk foods, can make the blood acidic. When not neutralized, blood that is too acidic can have deleterious effects, like lethargy and abnormal heart rhythms.

Still there are those who do not believe in these alkaline water benefits saying further that these are overstated. The argument between believers and non-believers essentially fuels interest for the product. Ultimately, the users are the only people who can testify whether or not alkaline water works, and the present consensus is that it works.

 To ensure that your body works at maximum efficiency, maintaining a neutral pH is important. If your blood is acidic, you will feel lethargic and unwell. Hence, taking alkaline water is good for you.

 Author: Michele Tamez

Article Source: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/health/article_12498.shtml

5 Frequently Asked Questions On Obesity And Weight Reduction

A lot of general questions are being asked daily concerning obesity and how to overcome it.

1. Does obesity affect my affect my overall general health?
Definitely YES! Obesity in itself is often regarded as a sickness. There are so many medical diseases out there that may arise due to excess weight such as cancers, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, heart diseases, to mention just a few. In fact, the growing prevalence of obesity and obesity-related diseases has become very important public health concerns these days. Obesity also reduces individual welfare and productivity.

2. What actually causes obesity?
A bad diet is a major cause of obesity. If you have wrong eating habits, then obesity is in your future. By the time you eat lot of foods that contain high fructose corny syrup (such as in most fast foods), you are very prone to having an obese stature. A bad diet is not the only thing that causes obesity. Bad diet is not the only reason why people get obese. A lack or insufficient exercise also contributes to the cases of obesity in men and women.

3. Are there other causes?
While improper diet and lack of regular exercise are major causes of obesity, obesity may also result from some diseases that have impact on your weight. An example of this is 'hypothyroidism'. This disease affect the production of hormones by your thyroid gland and in so doing reduces the body metabolism leading to excessive weight gain in a very short period of time. Do well to consult your doctor in this case.

4. What can I do to prevent obesity?
Prevention is actually much easier and I can tell you that you are fortunate if you are not obese yet. Hope you stay that way!. The key thing you should know in order to prevent obesity is that it results from the accumulation of excess unsaturated fats & oils in the body system. Hence, you should have a healthy meal plan that excludes those foods that make you fat and include lots of fresh fruits, veggies, fiber, nuts, & lean protein. Also remember to exercise regularly to keep your body in good shape.

5. Okay, I am already obese, how do I treat this?
The first thing you should realize is that it is very possible for you to shed that excess fat quickly and get back into a very attractive physique. All you may require is consistency and determination. One important step to this is admitting that obesity is a problem that needs to be solved. Since a poor diet and lack of exercise are major causes of obesity, there are certain remedies. By drinking lots of water to keep the body hydrated always, avoid junk processed food,whole fat dairy foods, sugary drinks, sweets, and exercising regularly, you will drastically reduce your chances of being obese. Introduce more natural cooked foods to your meals instead of processed foods. These lifestyle changes would help you immensely!

Author: David Ugorji

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7395568

Does A Sauna Suit To Help Lose Weight?

Weight is a pressing issue with almost all families in the US and, while some are trying to shed a few pounds, others are fighting with a few tens of pounds. Loosing weight is never easy; it requires determination, planning and the will power to stick to the plan, which can prove extremely difficult. Here is how a sauna suit can help you lose weight faster and also allow you to have fun at the same time.

The Effect Of The Sauna Suit

Saunas in general produce the following effects: increase the body temperature through the high temperature in the sauna room and thus eliminates the access water in the body through sweat. Through sweat you will also eliminate toxins and those impurities that clog your pores especially on the face, leaving you a health, bright skin in return. In a normal sauna session, you can lose anywhere from 300 to 500 calories through sweat and increased heart rate alone.

The sauna suit increases the effect of heat on the entire body and thus, helps you burn more calories in the process and lose weight fast. You can also wear the sauna suit to exercise in order to raise the temperature in your body and burn fat fast.

Other Usage Of Sauna Suits

AdChoices

Sauna suits are great if you have any outdoor activity in the cold weather as it preserves the body heat and will keep you warm. There is a large variety of sauna suits available to choose from, in all types of sizes, colors and shapes as well as materials such as, nylon, vinyl and PVC. You will find that most sauna suits will be full length, covering your entire legs and arms, leaving out your hands, feet and from the neck upwards. Choose the sauna suit of choice keeping in mind if you are allergic to any of the materials used in making it.

Helpful Sauna Tips

There are a few things you need to watch when you use a sauna and they are: because your body will sweat profoundly you will get dehydrated fast and you must ensure that you drink plenty water in order to produce the flushing effect and cleanse you body but also not to get dehydrated. If you are suffering from heart disease of are pregnant do not use the sauna, as you can get seriously hurt in the process.

Do not use the sauna is you administered strong medication that will cause you muscle spasms and/or drowsiness as well as avoid the sauna if you consumed alcoholic beverages.

Author: Ann Marier Ann Marier has written many articles on  health problems and useful house and garden topics. More articles about the Infrared Sauna and other types of saunas.
Article source: Articles Base.

4 Fat-Burning Foods To Eat For Fast Weight Loss

Foods that you should eat to burn fat fast are foods that are thermogenic in nature. By 'thermogenic', I mean foods that require the body to spend a lot of energy to digest them. Fat- burning foods do not necessarily mean those foods have to be 'hot' and spicy like peppers and other assorted spices etc. Not at all!
There are 4 fat-burning foods to eat to get rid of excess weight. They include;

1. Protein
The kinds of foods to eat for fast weight loss are these thermogenic foods and a very good example is protein. Protein is said to be the most thermogenic class of food. A lot of calories are burnt off while trying to digest them. The body's metabolic rate is increased and hence weight loss is achieved. Very good sources of protein are; turkey, chicken breast and other lean meats. Incorporate these in your diet for quick weight loss and sound health.

2. Green tea
You may or may not have heard about Green Tea. If you are a weight loss enthusiast, you probably would have come across it. Green tea works in such a way that it increases your body's metabolism significantly but unlike coffee and other caffeinated drinks, it does not increase your heart rate. This is very effective for quick weight loss. Green tea contains epigallo-catechin gallate (EGCG) and this is responsible to the increased metabolism. For anyone who wishes to lose weight fast, Green tea should be taken in place of other kinds of tea.

3. Fish
Though this is an amazing source of protein, it also contains what is known as Omega 3 fatty acids, which helps boost metabolism. Fish like salmon and tuna and most other fish, contain Omega 3 fatty acids. These Omega 3 fatty acids help to control the level of a hormone called 'leptin' in the body and this helps in reducing excess weight quickly.

4. Whole grain cereal and oatmeal
Intake of fibre and complex carbs help to lower insulin levels as these foods are digested slowly in the stomach. High levels of insulin encourage the body to store fat so it is important that you desist from eating sugary foods that increase insulin levels and instead make up your diet with whole grain cereal, nuts, fibre and oatmeal for effective weight reduction.

You can see that these are foods to eat for fast weight loss which should be incorporated in your daily diet. Stick to a meal plan today and make smart food choices so that you can quickly shed that excess fat.

Author: David Ugorji

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Ugorji

Knowing Whether You Are a Good Fit for a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck might be a good option for you. Most people do not realize how much skin they have until they lose a good amount of weight without giving it time to tighten up. When this happens so quickly, they are left with loose skin that actually has weight of its own. This type of plastic surgery is one way to get rid of this.
If you are in good physical shape but cannot seem to lose the extra inches in your belly or tighten up the skin that hangs there, you might be a good candidate for a tummy tuck. Most people probably think that the ones who need it are those who are overweight. It is actually only a good option for those who are at a good weight.
If someone still is overweight when they get a tummy tuck, it will defeat the purpose of getting rid of the loose skin because there will still be more after weight is possibly lost later. It is a surgery after all, so it is also important that someone be a healthy weight because some problems such as diabetes that is common with some who are overweight can cause problems for the procedure. With this in mind, be sure to give your plastic surgeon access to your medical records before your surgery. Most likely he or she will not even perform a surgery without access to these.
Part of the procedure can be liposuction to remove excess fat, so do not think that you have to have no fat to have the surgery. That would not make sense because everyone has some fat in their belly. During a tummy tuck, some fat will be removed by liposuction, muscles will be tightened up in the belly, loose skin will be removed, and the skin that is left will be tightened. Your navel will also likely need to be repositioned depending on the type procedure you end up having.
Besides being in good physical shape, it is also important that an individual have good skin elasticity so that the skin will stay tight as it should. Older individuals and people who smoke have less skin elasticity.
If you are tired of loose skin from weight loss or from a pregnancy, you may want to consider a tummy tuck. If you are interested, make sure to visit a few different plastic surgeons before deciding on one. Consult with them to see how much they charge for their procedures as well as to see if you believe you would like to work with them. Do not go with any doctor who is pushy and tries to persuade you to have a surgery or surgeries that you do not want. Make sure that he or she is educated and experienced in the area of plastic surgery in which you are interested.

Author: Aloysias Aucoin

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7389996

Six Ways to Get Rid of Cellulite

Even though you have cellulite, you can still consider yourself lucky (or are you thinking of ways to get rid of cellulite?). After all, there are several do-it-yourself remedies that would not only make you look fresh and feel energized, but also cure the infection as well. It doesn't take too much effort to learn how to get rid of cellulite at home and make yourself look pretty- simply browse over the techniques listed below to learn the different ways to get rid of cellulite:
1# Physical Exercise:
Exercise aids in building up your muscles and makes your body structure look great. There are many types of exercise, but cardiovascular exercise is the one that yields the most benefits. Skipping, running, swimming, and cycling are examples of this type of exercise. Aerobic exercises are also effective and help you get rid of thigh cellulite.
Exercise eliminates excess body waste and fat from your organs. If practiced from an early age, skipping exercises can help you increase your height. You can exercise at home by stretching your legs and climbing stairs. These exercises to get rid of cellulite are not only convenient, but more importantly, come with several benefits.
2# Dieting:
You don't need to deviate from your usual routine. A regular diet can be streamlined to become one of the ways to get rid of cellulite. Take note that there are foodstuffs that you can freely consume, as well as food that you must totally avoid. Remember to abstain for sugar, alcohol, fats, and caffeine.
Instead, you should incorporate fruits, fresh vegetables, and fiber rich food into your diet. Vitamins, minerals, and protein are greatly essential as well. Ingesting these substances helps you defend against constipation, popularly believed to be what causes cellulite.
3# Body Massage:
Before taking a bath in the morning, you should adopt a regular body massage routine. This massage is performed from head to toe in a circular pattern. Whenever you exert force using your fingers, circulation of fluid improves and fat deposits are broken down, passing and draining through the bowels. The regular massage can also be complemented with spices and oils such as cedar, juniper, clover, rosemary, funnel, strawberry, etc.
4# Lotions and Creams:
Most department stores have creams that can be mixed with oils during your massage sessions. Caffeine is one of the main ingredients in such lotions. If you have coffee grounds near your home, you can use these instead. It's easy to prepare a mixture of vegetable oil and grounded coffee powder. Apply this mixture on the infected portion.
5# Skin Brush (Dry):
You can utilize nylon-wire brush with a stretched handle on your skin. Just make sure that your skin remains dry. This brush is able to remove dead skin cells that are washed away by water every time you take a bath. Be sure to brush all the way, from top to bottom. This is definitely one of the good ways to eliminate cellulite.
6# Water/Fluid:
Drinking less water results in increased fat collection. Always remember that your body cells should retain fluids. Less water consumption also increases your body weight. Your body also has difficulty removing toxins. Drinking more water allows you to eat less, resulting in reduced body weight and discouraging the formation of cellulite. Increased body metabolism is possible as long as you know the different ways to get rid of cellulite.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Geary

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7360085

Lose Weight Dieting - With A Fat Burning Diet

So you want to lose weight dieting but with so much confusing information out there you need to know which diets will work for you but most importantly which diets are healthy for you as you certainly don't want any unwanted side effects as some people have had with other well known diets. You can achieve all of these goals with a fat burning diet.

A fat burning diet will help you lose weight dieting because it deals with your biggest problem that your body loves to store fat as you get older to protect you. You will probably have found that your metabolism has slowed down and now its time to change that. The first thing you have to do is get rid of all the fat storing foods some of which may surprise you. Some of these include orange juice, all wheat breads (not rice bread), cereals, yogurts and cheeses to name a few. In essence all wheat and dairy products with the exception of eggs.

All the foods I am telling you to give up are mainly new foods that our ancestors didn't eat back in the times of the stone age and they lived a very healthy life relative to there environment. So to lose weight dieting eat what they eat i.e. all meats and fish, fresh fruit and fresh vegetables. You can also eat eggs. You should also replace your meal time drink with water and freshly squeezed lemon. This will do two things firstly it will replace the vitamins and more that your missing from giving up orange juice and secondly it's probably the best detoxifier for your body on this planet.

So you can lose weight dieting just make sure you eat the foods in the right quantity in relation to your metabolism and body weight. So are you going to be decisive and do something about it today or will you still be reading articles like this in six months time?


Author:  Angelina Jewels

Article Source: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/health/article_11461.shtml

The Generation of Obese Teenagers

There are many articles in the press about obese teenagers and even obese younger children and so my article on this issue is nothing new but the fact that it is something I have in front of me everyday, motivated me as something I just had to write about. So I decided to write a series of articles on this particular issue. I see it everywhere, in the classroom, on the streets, in the shops, the village where I live... just everywhere. It is also an issue that really stood out to me when I came back from Spain some months ago to return to my position as lecturer at the college.

When we returned from Spain, my daughters who are 16 and 17 set about catching up with old friends after a 2 year absence and we all noticed that most of them, bar a few, had put on substantial amounts of weight during those 2 years. Now let me step back here to assure you... I was not being judgmental on these teenagers as people, it was just impossible not to notice the difference that this period of time had made
My job as a Health lecturer and also the fact that I have lived a large proportion of my life so far out of the UK in South Africa allows me the liberty of being able to look at different cultures and their eating habits and way of life. When I returned from South Africa to the UK in 2001 I immediately noticed the deteriorating eating habits of the younger generation and had a hard time convincing my daughters of the benefits of healthy eating. When we moved to Spain in 2010 and returned in 2012 some 2 years later..I think they got what I had been talking about all those years earlier!

The message really hit home when they were able to compare the eating habits and weight issues in the UK with a different culture where the eating habits were more healthy and overweight teenagers were infrequent and not common place.

So lets get the information right from the start. Many people think that being overweight is an appearance issue. Not so, of course no-one wants to look "fat" but being overweight is actually a medical concern because it can seriously affect a person's health. All of us have body fat and a few extra pounds are not going to do us any harm, but when experts use the term overweight they are talking about much more than just a few pounds. There are very few people who are not aware of the health problems like Diabetes and heart disease that come with people who are overweight, but the problems range much further. Being overweight can affect a persons joints, breathing, sleep, mood, and energy levels. All of these problems can impact a person's entire quality of life. More people are overweight today than ever before. We are experiencing an "obesity epidemic." So younger people are now developing health problems that used to affect only adults, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.

So how does one become overweight? It's actually not as simple as you think... but then it never is. My next article will discuss the issues that result in weight gain.

Kathy is a Health and Social care lecturer with young adults Her website is focused on Health and lifestyle issues that effect teenagers.  http://www.myhealthbusiness.info 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Davison
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7367890

The 5:2 diet: what is it and how does it work?

You may have heard of this diet already, but do have a read. I think it is worth trying.


• With the 5:2 diet, you can eat whatever you like five days a week — so-called feeding days. On the two “fasting days” you eat 500 calories if you are a woman, or 600 calories if you are a man.
• It doesn’t matter which days are spent “feeding” and which “fasting”, as long as the fasting days are non-consecutive and you stick to the 5:2 ratio.
• On fasting days you can consume your calories in one go, or spread them through the day — there is no medical research into whether filling up at breakfast or snacking throughout the day is more effective for weight loss.
• A typical fasting-day breakfast of 300 calories might consist of two scrambled eggs with ham (good sources of protein), plenty of water, green tea or black coffee. For a typical 300-calorie lunch or dinner, try grilled fish or meat with vegetables.
• On feeding days you can eat whatever you like. Most dieters, rather than feeling a need to gorge, found that they were happy to consume around 2,000 calories — the recommended daily intake for women (2,600 for men) — and did not crave high-fat foods.
• Contrary to popular opinion, fasting can be a healthy way to lose weight. It can reduce levels of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1, which leads to accelerated ageing), switches on DNA repair genes and reduces blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels.
• According to current medical opinion, the benefits of fasting are unproven. As a diet, it is not recommended for pregnant women or diabetics on medication. Anyone considering a diet that involves fasting is advised to consult their GP first, and to do it under medical supervision. 

• Michael Mosley is a medical doctor, journalist and television presenter. To watch his BBC Two Horizon programme on intermittent fasting, go to the BBC iPlayer (bbc.co.uk/iplayer) or visit tinyurl.com/BBCHorizonFasting

Is There Proof That Green Tea Can Make You Healthier

Even though some people have tried green tea and might not have been crazy about the taste, it could be worth considering to drink it anyway. A lot of people also do not consume a lot of water, but we all know that it is necessary that we have it everyday. While it might not be necessary to drink green tea,
it has many proven health benefits that make it very worth while to partake of on a regular basis.

Have you ever noticed how long some Asian people seem to live very long lives? Not that there are not people in all cultures that have some fairly old folks, but the association of some in the Asian culture that consume green tea on a regular basis shows in their longevity and quality of life as they age. Now this does not mean that you can a cup of this miracle herb once or twice a year and benefit from it, it has to be partaken of regularly for it to be truly effective. It is like water in the sense that you can not drink it just once or twice a week and it do you very much good.

Studies have shown that among Japanese men, over half of them smoke yet they do not appear to suffer nearly as much as some in other cultures from the detrimental side affects from smoking. French people that often have a diet high in fat also usually drink a fair quantity of red wines and appear to not suffer from heart disease as much as some other countries. Studies have shown that there is an element in red wine and in green tea called resveratrol. This polyphenol appears to limit the affects from fatty diets and smoking as well. This does not mean that you should drink too much red wine or smoke tobacco, but just think how much healthier you might be if you drank these beverages, the wine in moderation, and maintained a healthy diet without smoking?

Other benefits from green teas is the fact that it can help kill bacteria. Many think that this can help prevent tooth decay. It is also believed that green tea might be helpful with burning calories for those that are trying to lose weight.

So, if you could drink one or two cups of green tea per day and really reduce the chances of having high cholesterol, heart disease, heart attacks, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent tooth decay, why would you not do it? It is certainly not a cure all for everything, but it sounds like there are plenty enough benefits to make it very worthwhile.

by:   jenna anderson

Body Wraps: A Body Slimming And Detoxifying Shortcut

Body slimming is something that most people wish it was an easier and faster process. With the kind of lifestyle that people lead today, slimming is an essential part of staying fit. There are many ways to get rid of the accumulated fats on the body the most common being exercise and dieting. Other faster yet dangerous techniques that people eventually resort to are the use of chemicals such as botox and cosmetic surgeries. But you do not need to go through this if you want to lose a few inches within a few days, there is a better, faster, safer and healthier solution - body wraps.
What are body wraps?
Body wraps are essentially a weight loss solution for those who want instant results. This means that if you have an important function coming up in a few days, have an interview to attend or have a date this weekend and want to look your best, you can do away with as much as 20 inches on your arm, face, thighs or any other part of the body using body wraps. These wraps are made of natural ingredients applied on the skin and pressed using a towel or bandage wrapper. When the ingredients are applied on the skin, they penetrate into the dermis and bring the toxins in the skin out through the pores.
How does it work
Once the toxins are removed from the skin, empty cell pockets will be left behind. Pressure applied by the bandage or towel wrap will force the cells to collapse, therefore tightening the skin. The result is that the area where the wrap is applied will slim down and detoxify at the same time. There are a ton of other benefits the body wrap has on the skin depending on the ingredients of the substance applied on the skin including getting rid of stretch marks, improving blood circulation, restoring skin elasticity and rendering the skin smoother and adding a glow that will last for some time.
Is it convenient?
Body wraps are a convenient solution to detoxifying the body and rejuvenating the skin, bit it is not a lasting solution because the cells will get filled up with toxins within a few weeks again - thereby taking you back to where you were before the weight loss. It is effective though and if you can use body wraps regularly, you will have a glowing and healthier skin all the time.

Are you looking to lose weight fast and safely? Is everything else not working for you? Body Wraps are a modern solution. They have been proven to work - find more information on how you can lose weight at home by sparing only 37 minutes of your time at http://www.WrapYourselfSlim.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_K._Rodge

Do Slimming Pills Actually Ever Work?

Anyone who has ever struggled with weight loss wonders whether slimming pills are the ideal solution to shedding those stubborn pounds for good. Dozens of diet pill commercials promise incredible results in a short amount of time, so it's hard not to pay attention to their claims if you haven't been able to lose weight successfully. On the other hand, it's hard to believe that so many people would still be unhappy with their bodies if diet supplements truly worked. When it comes to diet pills, navigating truth and fiction can be confusing. It's important to learn as much as possible about the diet products that are currently available on the market and how they work before you decide whether weight loss pills are right for you.
Types of Weight Loss Supplements
Slimming pills come in a wide variety of brands and prices, so it's nearly impossible to say whether they are effective as a whole. It all depends on your body chemistry and the type of diet pill you are taking. Before you decide if you should try diet pills, you need to understand the different options that are available at stores and pharmacies. Most diet pills that are advertised on television tend to be over-the-counter and a smaller percentage are prescription medications. Although all-natural weight loss supplements are rarely advertised on TV, they can be found in most vitamin shops and health food stores.
Even within these three main categories, there are different types of supplements, and they all contain different ingredients. Some are meant to speed up your metabolism while others work as appetite suppressants and another sub-category includes pills that block fats and carbohydrates from being absorbed. While over-the-counter diet pills and natural supplements are available to all adults, prescription weight loss drugs are usually only prescribed to people who are significantly overweight. They contain strong ingredients that can affect the brain and other organs, so they are not appropriate for everyone.
Are Weight Loss Pills Effective?
Some people swear that the diet pills they are taking are effective and safe while others do not recommend taking any supplements at all. Because people's bodies are so different, it's impossible to say that one supplement works better for all dieters than other slimming pills or no supplements at all. Research does show that some supplements, many of which are all-natural products, do help with weight loss. However, no diet pill is the ultimate solution to losing weight and keeping it off. The only way to get to a healthy weight and stay there is to follow a healthy diet and exercise. If you decide to try a weight loss supplement, it should be used in conjunction with eating well and working out.
Be an educated consumer, and do your research before buying any supplements that you think might help you lose weight. Don't be tempted by products that promise quick results but contain questionable ingredients. There are diet supplements that are perfectly safe; but there are also products that can be very harmful to your body. If you plan to take a weight loss pill that contains chemicals or artificial ingredients, it's best to contact your doctor for advice. Even when taking all-natural weight loss supplements, pay attention to your body and be careful. It might take a while to find what works for you, so don't get discouraged and continue working out and eating healthy

Author: Rachel Klaus
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7127024

Lose Weight by Eating More -- Food that is Virtually Impossible to Store as Body Fat

Certain foods are extremely difficult for the human body to convert into body fat - not impossible but damned near impossible. By consuming calories derived from these foods, the anabolic margin of error is extended dramatically, which means it will be easier to lose fat and gain muscle, if you choose.

Lean protein, protein devoid of saturated fat, has been the staple, the bedrock nutrient of elite athletes for 50 years. Why? You can eat a mountain of lean protein and not get fat - assuming you train with intensity sufficient enough to trigger muscle growth. Lean protein is difficult for the body to break down and digest. As a direct result of this digestive difficulty, the body kicks the metabolic thermostat upward to break protein down into subcomponent amino acids.

The human body wants to preserve stored body fat as a last line of defense against starvation. If overworked and under-fed, the body will preferentially eat muscle tissue to save precious body fat.

Obese people that go on crash diets, precipitously slashing calories, might lose 100-pounds of body weight, yet still appear fat. Despite losing from say 350-pounds to 250-pounds, they still appear fat because they still are fat. The body has cannibalized muscle tissue and saved the fat. Though they might weigh 100-pounds less, they still possess 25-40% body fat percentile.

Lean protein is the bedrock nutrient in the physical renovation process because it supplies muscle tissue battered by a high intensity weight workout with the amino acids needed to heal, recover and construct new muscle tissue. Lean protein is a bedrock nutrient in the physical renovation process because it causes the basal metabolic rate (BMR) to elevate; the metabolic thermostat, the rate at which our body consumes calories, increases when digesting protein. Lean protein is a bedrock nutrient in the physical renovation process because it is damned near impossible for the body to convert it into body fat.

The other bedrock nutrient in the physical transformation process is fibrous carbohydrates: carrots, broccoli, green beans, bell peppers, spinach, cauliflower, onions, asparagus, cabbage, salad greens, Brussels sprouts and the like. Fibrous carbohydrates, like lean protein, are nearly impossible for the body to convert into body fat. Fibrous carbohydrates require almost as many calories to digest as they contain. A green bean or carrot might contain 10-calories yet is so dense and difficult to break down that the body has to expend nearly as many calories to break down that bean or carrot as the vegetable contains.

Fibrous carbohydrates have a wonderful "Roto-Rooter" effect on the internal plumbing: as they work their way though the digestive passageways they scrape mucus and gunk off intestinal walls and help keep sludge buildup to a minimum. For this reason fibrous carbohydrates are the perfect compliment to a lean protein diet. Too much protein can cause bile buildup: fibre is the Yin to protein's Yang. The two nutrients should be eaten together.

Both protein and fibre have a beneficial dampening effect on insulin secretions. It is no accident that professional bodybuilders, the world's best dieters, capable of reducing body fat percentiles to 5% while maintaining incredible muscle mass, construct their eating regimen around protein and fiber.

The best way to eat is to eat often. If you eat 3,000 calories a day the best way is in five 600-calorie feeding or six 500-calorie feedings instead of a breakfast containing 400-calories, a lunch of 1000-calories and a late dinner of 1,600-calories. Avoid calories easily converted into body fat.

Eat multiple small meals in the 400-600 calorie range comprised exclusively of foods near impossible for the body to convert into body fat. Plus, these foods cause the metabolism, the BMR, the body thermostat to elevate in order to digest them. Optimally you should eat every three hours: in about the time the nutrients from the previous meal have dwindled, been expended and exhausted, in about the time the elevated metabolism is 'settling back down to normal,' eat another small protein/fibre meal. This re-establishes anabolism, kicks the metabolism upward once again and gives the body more practice at assimilating and distributing quality nutrients.

They say practice makes perfect and by eating small, power-packed, tough to digest meals every three hours, the metabolism is kept elevated, anabolism is established and maintained and the individual never feels hungry. A person who is not hungry is far less inclined to binge on sweets and treats, junk and trash then the crash diet/calorie cutters who always feel hungry, deprived, listless and lacking energy.

The small meal/protein/fibre approach has been used successfully by elite athletes for decades and is not some untried dietary abstraction - rather it is the proven method of choice, one that has withstood the test of time, one that has been used for decades and been proven effective time after time.

If a person is able to establish a multiple meal schedule comprised primarily of lean protein and fibre eaten every three hours, then adds to this eating schedule some serious weight training and a cardiovascular regimen, physical transformation is a biological certainty.
Author Bio
Coming soon! "The Obesity Solution" is designed to help overweight men and women physically transform themselves into healthier, thinner, more fit individuals. Designed by Marty Gallagher, a world champion coach and former www.washingtonpost.com fitness columnist, he will take you by the hand to help you achieve permanent fat loss.
By: Marty Gallagher

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Food Addiction Can Lead to Death

Food has been described as ambrosia and the elixir if life. For some, eating is a biological necessity for others it is a passion that can turn into an obsession. Experts define food addiction to be a disorder where the addict is preoccupied with food, the availability of food, and the pleasure of eating. There are three recognized addictions:

• Overeating, where the addict has no control over the amount or the number of times he eats. The person has no concept of being overweight or the servings a person must eat normally. Being an overeater, the addict will indulge in uncontrolled eating binges. Being obese, the addict will be prone to hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, arthritis, and cancer.
• Bulimisa Nervosa, where the addict binges and then tries to maintain weight by vomiting, using laxatives, excessive exercise, or even fasting. Such addicts will develop dental problems like thinning of enamel, excessive number of cavities, swollen salivary glands, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, as well as calluses and scars.
• Anorexia Nervosa, where the addict fears weight gain and so starves himself. Obsessed with weight gain and body shape anorexics will exhibit obsessive behaviors in maintaining themselves. In the process, they develop problems like disruption of menstrual cycle, emancipation, hair loss, unhealthy skin pallor, and a lack or fluids.

The most common health problems are obesity, alcoholism, diabetes, bulimia, food allergies, and food intolerance.

The signs that you are addicted to food are:

• Uncontrolled cravings for particular foods. Some are addicted to sweets, others to soft drinks, yet others to coffee.
• Continuous or frequent eating. No fixed meal times an addict will eat throughout the day.
• Sharpened hunger on consumption of specific foods.
• Anxiety attacks, feelings of nervousness, low sugar, a headache, stomach gripes and grumbles.
• Withdrawal symptoms.
• Fatigue.
• Extreme irritations.
• Intolerance to foods.
• Feelings of guilt at having eaten.

The very cornerstones to curing the addiction are to:

• Identify and avoid what are known to be trigger foods or drinks.
• Put into practice a diet that is nutrient rich, healthy, and helps maintain or loose weight.
• Make lifestyle changes. Adopt a healthier lifestyle and include plenty of fresh air as well as exercise.
• Focus on personal and spiritual development. Seek inner peace, calm, and joy. Practice meditation and deep breathing.
• Plan to have activity filled days to distract the mind from food.

Even if you have a niggling doubt that you may be a food addict you must seek help. Nip the problem in the bud before it grows into something unmanageable and serious. You must consult a nutritionist, doctor, psychologist, or an eating addiction center or specialist. There are programs run by groups like Overeaters Anonymous that run 12-step programs which are extremely beneficial. Author Bio
Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for  the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Food Forum, including topics on all about food, food network, food recipe, health food, food gift, different food and more. His article profile can be found at the premier Food Article Submission Directory www.1888Articles.com/food-and-drink-articles-13.html
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Is Cellulite My Fault?

A question as old as cellulite itself. Many women, and some men, feel that their cellulite is a direct result of some action or in-action on their part but is this really the case? I will attempt to explain what cellulite is, how it occurs and in the process hopefully alleviate some of the guilt a few of you may be feeling.

So what is cellulite?

It is a change in the skin that occurs in most females and appears as dimpling or a 'cottage cheese' look in areas generally from the stomach down. The look of the skin is altered due to structural changes occurring under the surface, namely fat deposits collecting there. These fat deposits are contained within chambers and separated by collagen fibers underneath the skin. These chambers increase in size for a number of reasons including:

Genetics - There is an inherited likelihood of cellulite,

Becoming overweight - Too much fat in each chamber,

Age - The fibers shrink and tighten pulling the skin 'downward',

Hormones (Oestrogen) - Stimulates the storage of fat for purposes such as menstruation, pregnancy and breastfeeding,

Poor blood circulation - The fibers shrink due to lack of oxygen and the accumulation of waste products resulting in the tell-tale cellulite look,

Poor lymph drainage - The waste products can not be drained from the area and increase the fat cells,

Exercise - Or lack of, can be a cause as there is no increased blood flow to the areas,

High fat foods - An increase in fat intake can cause the excess fat to be stored in the problem areas,

Sun - Lengthy exposure to the sun accelerate the skin aging process,

Dieting - On and off dieting causes the body to store fat in the problem areas in preparation for the next 'starvation period', and

Stress - A highly stressful lifestyle causes the release of hormones which are associated with cellulite appearing.

How can I avoid cellulite?

The short answer is, maybe you can't. There are a number of things you can do to reduce the likelihood, the amount and the time at which cellulite will appear but for the vast majority of women, you will develop cellulite at some stage. Some of the things you can do to fend off its arrival are:

Diet - Eat a proper, low calorie diet consisting of vegetables, fruits and lean meats. Avoid high fat, sugary and processed foods.

Exercise - Have a regular exercise regime consisting of at least three sessions per week.

Slip, Slop, Slap - Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat when in the sun for long periods.

Avoid stress - Easier to say than do but there are numerous calmative techniques that can be used or applied in most situations.

So is it my fault?

Yes, er.. no. Well maybe. Now that you know what factors can cause the appearance of cellulite you are armed with the tools needed to make changes to your life to hopefully delay or possibly avoid its appearance. For some women, cellulite will appear regardless of a healthy lifestyle but continued diligence and adherence to that lifestyle may reduce the severity.

by: Ben Aspland

About The Author If you are keen to lose your cellulite then check out my Procellix Review at http://procellix-review.com/procellix-reviews.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/health/article_12487.shtml

People can be fat yet fit, research suggests.

People can be obese yet physically healthy and fit and at no greater risk of heart disease or cancer than normal weight people, say researchers.

The key is being "metabolically fit", meaning no high blood pressure, cholesterol or raised blood sugar, and exercising, according to experts.
Looking at data from over 43,000 US people they found that being overweight per se did not pose a big health risk.
The results are published in the European Heart Journal.

In the study at the University of South Carolina, more than a third of the participants were obese.
Of these 18,500, half were assessed as metabolically healthy after a physical examination and lab tests.
This subset of metabolically healthy obese people who did not suffer from conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, were generally fitter and exercised more than the other obese people.
And their risk of developing or dying from cardiovascular disease or cancer was identical to people of ideal weight and was half that of "metabolically less fit" obese people.

These studies remind us that it is not always your weight that's important, but where you carry fat and also how it affects your health and fitness”

Amy Thompson British Heart Foundation

Lead researcher Dr Francisco Ortega, who currently works at the University of Granada in Spain, said the findings show that getting more exercise can keep you healthier, even if you still carry a bit of extra weight.

"This research highlights once again the important role of physical fitness as a health marker."
Most of the men and women in the study came from a similar background, meaning the results may not apply to everyone. They were mostly Caucasian, well educated, and worked in executive or professional positions.

Amy Thompson, of the British Heart Foundation, said: "In the majority of cases, obesity is an undeniable risk factor for developing coronary heart disease. However, these studies remind us that it is not always your weight that's important, but where you carry fat and also how it affects your health and fitness.
"It is particularly important to be aware of your weight if you are carrying excess fat around your middle. The fat cells here are really active, producing toxic substances that cause damage which can lead to heart disease.
"Maintaining a healthy diet with lots of physical activity can help to slim you down as well as reduce your risk of heart health problems.

"But don't get too caught up on the numbers on the scale. Calculating your body mass index and measuring your waist are great ways to keep on track. If you are concerned about your weight and want to make changes to your lifestyle, make an appointment with your GP to talk it through."
Author:   Michelle Roberts Health editor, BBC News online

Quick Tips for Permanent Weightloss

Many think that the battle to lose weight is always an up-hill struggle, but in reality it doesn’t have to be. There are several small yet effective changes you can make in your diet and daily activities that are very easy to incorporate into your lifestyle. By just using a few of the following tips, you can be well on your way to taking it off ad keeping it off.

The first step is to target your eating habits. Here are a few things you can do to jump-start your permanent weight loss.

* Eat 6 smaller meals a day as opposed to 3 larger meals. This keeps your metabolism up and your belly full

* Substitute mayonnaise and mayonnaise-based dressings with condiments like mustard or extra virgin olive oil. EVOO tastes great in tuna fish and has a fraction of the saturated fat.

* Eliminate fried foods/fast food from your diet or eat very sparingly

* Keep junk food out of the house. Substitute fresh fruit and vegetables. If you don’t keep junk in the house, you’re less likely to cheat.

* Pay attention to portion sizes. Dividing your plate into 4 visual quarters and only eating 3 of those quarters is a good way to start. Another helpful tool is an all-natural supplement called Hoodia Gordonii. It’s very easy to find Hoodia in patches and pill form. The next step is to start incorporating an exercise routine you’ll stick with on a regular basis. It only takes 3 weeks (21 days) to form a habit, so if you can make the commitment to at least 3 weeks, it’s all down hill from there! Losing weight and exercise don’t have to be boring.

* If you can’t do one 30-minute sitting of cardio a day, try doing three 10 minute sessions instead (a short walk, or going up and down stairs would work)

* Get the whole family involved and take family walks after dinner. You’ll be spending quality time with the ones you love and getting the health benefits of walking all at the same time.

* Doing simple chores around the home also burn calories. Washing your car, pulling weeds, and even vacuuming all count as calorie-burning activities

* Participate in physical activities with friends or children. Kicking a ball around, riding a bike, or roller-blading are all good examples. This will also give you a chance to get outside and enjoy fresh air. Some planning also needs to be done in order for the weight to stay off. There are also some all-natural products you can use to help expedite your weight loss.

* Plan meals for the week in advance. This prevents you from making impulse buys or heading to the drive through, which 9 times out of ten is not good for you

* Hoodia Gordonii is an all-natural weight loss supplement made from a cactus plant that has been shown to help people watch their portion sizes. You should plan on taking this twice a day.

* Drinking green tea can also help. This contains EGCG, an antioxidant which has been proven to increase metabolism. Who knew it could be so easy!

* Plan to REWARD yourself with non-food items. Buying some new clothes or planning an outing with friends are just a couple of ways you can do this.
You can see from the above tips that permanent weight loss is not out of reach. By making and sticking with these small changes for at least 3 weeks, you will start to shed pounds and feel sexier in no time. Whether it’s cutting out fried foods, starting to take daily walks, or starting an all-natural supplement like Hoodia Gordonii to decrease cravings, taking the first steps to losing your excess weight will be a cinch, and it won’t be long before you start to reveal a healthier, sexier, happier new you.
About The Author

Tracy Cohen has been studying health and fitness trends for over 7 years and is a huge advocate of all-natural products and healing techniques. She is dedicated to helping people win the fight against obesity.
Source: www.articlecity.com/articles/health/article_6647.shtml

The Stone Age Diet Solution

The dietary habits adopted by developed countries over the last centuries are largely responsible for many of the chronic diseases that are now commonplace in Western society.

Diseases such as coronary heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer of the colon are virtually unheard of among the few hunter-gatherer populations still remaining in the world.

The stone age diet is based on the foods that our hunter-gatherer ancestors would have eaten before they became farmers.

Even over the last fifty years, our food has drastically changed. Where once our food was made up of simple, natural foods with minimal added ingredients, our food now contains a multitude of different ingredients.

Often it can be hard to even find modern-day food that does not contain some form of milk or wheat, which are common triggers in food allergies, and this leads to people eating the same ingredients every day and often at every single meal.

The stone age diet is nutritionally balanced and a very low allergen diet ideal for people who suffer from food allergies or food related ailments.

The foods you can eat on the stone age diet should be from natural sources and include items such as fruit (except citrus), fresh fruit juices (except citrus), all game and fish, free-range eggs, all vegetables, fresh vegetable juices, fresh nuts (except peanuts), herb teas, natural seasonings (salt, black pepper, herbs) and bottled or filtered water.

The foods you must avoid on the stone age diet are milk in all forms, milk products, cereals and their related products, any form of sugar, domesticated animal meat (meat from pigs, cows, sheep etc.), chicken, eggs (unless free-range), citrus fruit, alcohol, coffee, tea and all manufactured foods such as canned, packaged, bottled foods and ready-meals, processed meat or fish, chocolate and cocoa products, spices and tap water.

The above list may seem restrictive but you will find your health and well-being dramatically improves just be removing the foods to avoid from your diet.

There are also some exceptions which you are allowed to eat on the stone age diet which do fit in with our modern lives and dietary practices. Live low-fat yoghurt in moderation is a good addition to the diet and some grains which are well tolerated, even by those with a food allergy, are rice and millet.

If alcohol needs to be consumed (perhaps you're at a wedding or celebration) then a small amount of dry white wine or real ale can be taken.

The stone age diet is based on natural, nutritionally rich foods and following the dietary habits it provides will ensure you reap the benefits and achieve a strong, fit and healthy body.
Author Bio
For further advice on natural foods and diets, visit Food Advice and Support
For food allergy treatment, advice and common trigger foods visit the Help for Food Allergy website (www.helpfoodallergy.com).
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Olympics and Fitness Survival

Are you really fit and at peak performance? Are you able to walk or run without exhaustion? Can you squat or lift without pain in your hips and shoulders? This summer the television and internet have brought us unforgettable images of the finest athletes in the world to ever compete. The Olympics demonstrate fitness survival and peak performance.
As we watch swimmers, gymnasts, rowers, and track athletes and dozens of other events, we witness the different components of overall fitness. Technique, agility, and balance are evident in gymnastics. Muscular strength is seen in rowing and volleyball. Excellent lung capacity is critical in swimming, cycling, and track. The ability to adjust to pain and mental agitation is seen in wrestling and weight lifting. At stake for Olympic competition are the components of power, strength, agility and coordination, peak lung capacity and the ability to adjust to pain.
To put it into Olympic perspective, Michael Phelps, the greatest Olympian of all time, won his 22nd and final Olympic medal, 18 of them gold recently. He was presented with a silver trophy which declared him to be, "The Greatest Olympic Athlete of All Time." How did he achieve that decoration? In the pool he demonstrated rigorous kicks and strength, not to mention great lung capacity. Michael Phelps symbolizes the extreme dedication to tedious practice day in and day out.
In the arena of technique, artistry, coordination and balance, the main event is gymnastics. Gabby Douglas, the sixteen year old African-American girl, to win the gold all-around, had a rigorous schedule of practice away from her home. Who could not marvel at the spectacular performance and precision of this Olympian prodigy on the bars, beam and vault?
The Russians are favorites of the men's wrestling to win medals at the Olympics. These Olympians are strong and agile. To perform well, there must be a propensity to endure pain and mental agitation. Wrestling is about setting peak performance and strategizing to win a competition.
These are only a few examples of high performance and fitness demonstrated at a world level. For the average person who does not train 5 to 6 hours a day six days a week for years, there are lessons to be learned from these world-class Olympians.
1. Physical fitness is about having the discipline to exercise regularly. For example, walking or cycling need to be done consistently over time to increase lung capacity and endurance.
2. Physical fitness is a mindset that does not acquiesce to pain or weakness. Fitness begins in the mind with visualized goals and materializes in the body.
3. Physical fitness is a healthy lifestyle about eating right, good posture and body mechanics and a positive attitude.
4. Physical fitness extends past the individual to the family and community. Healthy bodies build healthy families which in turn build healthy communities.
The 2012 Olympics demonstrate peak performance on many levels. They also demonstrate to us the absolute need for fitness survival. The foundation for any society begins with the health and fitness of its citizens.

Anna Marie Hernandez is a physical therapist and teacher. She has written articles and books on integrative health, fitness and children's educational books. For more information visit: http://www.healthforsurvival.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Marie_Hernandez

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7215970

Coconut Oil Diets

Have you heard about coconut oil diets yet? People are adding coconut oil to their diets and are getting incredible results. They are losing weight, g...

Have you heard about coconut oil diets yet? People are adding coconut oil to their diets and are getting incredible results. They are losing weight, getting more energy, and getting healthier.

 Coconut oil is safe to use, and does not turn to fat in your body. It raises the metabolism, so you burn more fat and have more energy. It does not increase your cholesterol, but actually helps lower it. Coconut oil is wonderful diet addition for just about everyone.

 Alexis says, “Let me tell you how it has been working for me. The first thing I noticed is that I had a lot more energy. Then I started noticing that the regular exercises I had been doing suddenly started working. The fat was beginning to turn to muscle. I didn't lose weight the first week or two, but I am losing weight now! And I now have enough energy to start increasing my exercise workout times, when before it was a struggle to exercise at all. I love this diet!”
 
 "What Coconut Oil DOES NOT Do:

  * Does not increase blood cholesterol level.
  * Does not promote platelet stickiness or blood clot formation.
  * Does not contribute to atherosclerosis or heart disease.
  * Does not contribute to weight problems."

  What Coconut Oil DOES Do:

  * Reduces risk of atherosclerosis and related illnesses.
  * Reduces risk of cancer and other degenerative conditions.
  * Helps prevent bacterial, viral, and fungal (including yeast) infections.
  * Supports immune system function.
  * Helps control diabetes.
  * Provides an immediate source of energy.
  * Supports healthy metabolic function.
  * Improves digestion and nutrient absorption.
  * Supplies important nutrients necessary for good health.
  * Supplies fewer calories than other fats.
  * Promotes weight loss.
  * Helps prevent osteoporosis.
  * Has a mild delicate flavor.
  * Is highly resistant to spoilage (long shelf life).
  * Is heat resistant (the healthiest oil for cooking).
  * Helps keep skin soft and smooth.
  * Helps prevent premature aging and wrinkling of the skin.
  * Helps protect against skin cancer and other blemishes.
  * Functions as a protective antioxidant."

 From Bruce Fife's Book, "The Coconut Oil Miracle".

 Author: Dianne Ronnow
 If you would like more information on cocoonut oil dieting, check out our site at: Coconut-Oil-Diet.com.

Change How You Think About Losing Weight Today

Have you ever considered losing weight to make you feel better and more energetic?
When you start the process of losing weight you'll want to weigh yourself at least once a week and take measurements. Doing these things can make us even more excited and motivated to lose those unwanted pounds. This is the best way to see if all the hard work is paying off or not.

Using weights is a good way to get your muscle tone going. This is also a good way to lose weight. You will be losing weight and gaining muscle tone by putting your body in shape and getting your muscles in better shape. You will notice the difference after the first few uses of the weights. Do not start out with ones that are too heavy. Start low and then build your way up to the heavier weights.

To lose weight you have to do more than just diet, you need to exercise. It is important to exercise because you have to make sure that you are keeping your body in tone and in shape for losing the weight. Exercise can be anything that keeps your body moving. You have to keep your body in motion in order to lose weight and to keep it off. You can stay fit with any form of exercise that you feel comfortable with and that makes you feel good about what you are doing. This is the most effective way of staying healthy and staying satisfied with your weight loss program.

If you are trying to lose weight, limit the intake of alcohol. You will gain weight if you drink accessibly. This is even more likely if you are drinking the regular beer instead of the light or the carb free beer. This is a choice that is up to you and you alone. You will have to decide what is more important losing weight or having a good time every weekend. Once you slow down on the intake of alcohol, you will notice a change in your body mass.

Getting lots of rest is another important factor in losing weight. You will want to make sure that you get a good nights sleep each night. This will put you fresh, alert and energetic for the next day. You will want to do more and get more exercise when you are feeling more awake.

Another important step in losing weight and feeling great is to be sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to flush out the fat and toxins that we have in our bodies.

The challenges of losing weight do not have to get us down. If we stay positive and keep our mind focused on what we have to do, we will find that getting in shape and losing weight does not have to be so hard. Getting our bodies in shape and looking great is the best incentive that anyone can have to drop those unwanted pounds.

By far I think that getting on herbal diets is a terrific way to lose weight. They do work for most people. Herbal diets are 100% safe, natural and ephedra free. We find that many people have gotten off their prescription medicine by being on an herbal diet. You'll want to be sure to check with your doctor first to make sure that this is the right weight loss program for you.

But don't wait. Get started right now to start feeling the difference.

Author: DeniseWalston         Source: Free Articles

Is Your Diet Colorblind?

Next time you have a meal, look at your plate - what colors do you see? If its mostly white and brown then your diet might be colorblind!

In order to have a healthy diet you need foods from all the food groups and that means a colorful plate. Just eating meat and potatoes won't provide you with the essential vitamins and minerals you need to stay in your best health - you need to add in colorful fruits and vegetables!

If you want a good balanced diet, here's some colors you might want to see next time you look down at your plate:

Green

Green colored foods like peas, kale, spinach, honeydew melons, kiwifruit, dark leafy lettuces, and leafy greens contain lutein which helps maintain good vision and can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Another green group includes broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, swiss chard, brussels sprouts, rutabaga, turnips, cauliflower, and watercress. These foods contain indoles, which can help reduce the risks of cancer and reduce tumor growth in cancer patients.

Yellow

The yellow orange colored food are high in bioflavonoids, which work in combination with vitamin C to help reduce the risk of cancer and heart attack. They also contain powerful antioxidants and help maintain healthy skin, strong bones, and good vision. The foods in this group include oranges, tangerines, pears, lemons, nectarines, grapefruit, peaches, apricots, pineapple, pineapple, yellow raisins, and yellow peppers.

Blue and Purple

Blueberries, purple grapes, blackberries, black currents and elderberries contain
Anthocyanins which can reduce the risks of heart attack, cancer, diabetic complications, Alzheimer's disease and age-related memory loss. Dark purple foods contain phenolics, which are powerful antioxidants and can help to slow the effects of aging.

Orange

Dark orange foods like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, apricots, peaches, carrots, cantaloupes, mangoes, and butternut squash contain beta-carotene, a powerful antioxident that can help keep your immune system healthy as well as maintain good vision and can even aid in reducing heart attacks and cancer.

Red

Tomatoes, guava, watermelon and pink grapefruit are all red colored foods. These foods contain lycopene which has been much publicized lately as helping to protect against prostate cancer. In addition, these foods can help reduce the risk of breast, and skin cancer as well as reduce the risk of heart attack.

Red onion, cherries, kidney beans, raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, beets, red apples (with the skin), and red cabbage contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help control high blood pressure as well as reduce the risks of cancer, heart attack, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes complications.

One way to get a colorful plate at every meal is to try to fit in 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Try to include food from all these color groups at least once during the day and you will be surprised at how much your health improves.
Author Bio
Lee Dobbins writes for the A2Z Vitamin And Herbs Guide For Natural Healing where you can find out more about vitamins and herbs as well as natural healing methods.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Enjoy a healthier lifestyle with more fruits and vegetables

Eating a sufficient number of fruits and vegetables just may be the single most effective thing you can do to improve your overall health.

Everyone agrees on the importance of eating more fruits and vegetables, but not enough people are following this important advice. Dietary experts recommend that every person should eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables is one of the easiest changes you can make to increase your level of health, lose weight and gain fitness.
The latest food guidelines recommend that adults eat from five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables every day. While that may seem like a lot, it is an important goal to strive for, and a very reachable one.
A serving of a fruit or vegetable is equal to:
1. 1 medium sized vegetable or fruit (such as an apple, orange or banana) 2. 2 small fruits (such as kiwi fruit or plums) 3. ½ cup of fresh, frozen or canned fruits or vegetables 4. ½ cup of 100% fruit juice 5. ¼ cup of dried fruit 6. 1 cup of green salad
 Study after study has shown that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables lowers the risk of certain cancers, heart disease and other chronic diseases and conditions. One reason for the recommendation that everyone increase their consumption of fruits and vegetables is that many of these foods have been shown to have strong antioxidant qualities.
Many fruits and vegetables have high amounts of many antioxidant vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin C. In addition to their importance as source of vitamins and minerals, fruits and vegetables also provide essential dietary fiber.
Many people do not realize, that in addition to vitamin C, oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits also contain significant amounts of fiber. Fiber plays an important role in digestion, and it is thought to have protective qualities against heart disease and some forms of cancer. In addition, fiber is thought to have the ability to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Another great feature of fruits and vegetables, especially to those watching their weight, is the high nutrition, low fat, and low calorie nature of these foods. Fruits and vegetables contain very low levels of fats, and a diet low in fat can be quite effective for long-term weight loss. In addition, fruits and vegetables contain no cholesterol, and they are lower in calories than many other types of foods.
Fruits and vegetables have a lot of advantages besides just their nutritional importance. For one thing, they taste great and add a great deal of variety to everyday meals. Fruits and vegetables come in such a wide variety of colors, textures and flavors that they can be used in virtually every meal. Those seeking to maximize their consumption of fruits and vegetables should get into the habit of using fruits in salads, as toppings and as garnishes.
No matter what your reason for following a healthy diet, we believe you will find that eating more fruits and vegetables is a delicious, as well as a nutritious, way to get the vitamins and minerals you need every day.
I hope that reading the above information was both enjoyable and educational for you. When word gets around about your command of healthy diet facts, others who need to know about fruits and vegetables will start to actively seek you out.
Summary:
Eating a sufficient number of fruits and vegetables just may be the single most effective thing you can do to improve your overall health. The five a day approach to healthy eating may be the single most important strategy you can adopt for a healthier lifestyle.

Nishanth Reddy, is an author and publisher of many health related websites. For more information on choosing fruits and vegetable for healthy life style visit http://www.weightloss-diettips.com/healthydiet/

Five Tips to Avoid Weight Gain During the Holidays

With the holiday season fast approaching, it's easy to fret about gaining back the weight you've spent significant time and effort into losing. Here are some tips to help you avoid putting on much, if any, weight during your holiday celebrations.

1. FILL UP ON MORE SENSIBLE FOODS
Foods that are high in fiber or water fill you up quickly and help keep you from overindulging on the "bad" stuff. Take an extra scoop of vegetables and fruit when filling your plate, and by the time you finish, you won't have room for the other foods which are higher in calories and more likely to cause you to gain weight.

2. EAT SMALLER PORTIONS
No doubt, everything at the table looks good, and it's all you can do to keep from filling your plate 2-3 times so that you can sample everything. An easy way to combat this urge is to simply take a smaller portion than you normally would of those dishes you're most interested in, especially belt-bursting desserts. Split a piece of pie or cake with your spouse, child, or another family member who may be watching his or her waistline.

3. DRINK AROUND, DURING, AND BETWEEN MEALS
Drink a fair amount of water or other unsweetened beverage before each meal, as well as during and between them. The liquid in your stomach will help trick your mind into not feeling as hungry, which reduces the tendency to gorge yourself on potentially fattening foods.

4. POSITION YOURSELF AWAY FROM THE SNACKS
If you take a seat within an arm's reach of the snack table, you're going to have a tough time keeping yourself from unconsciously grabbing handfuls of party mix, candies, and the like and picking at them all day. By sitting on the other side of the room, getting to the snacks involves a conscious effort into getting up and walking over to get at the snacks.

5. TAKE AN EXERCISE BREAK
If the weather permits it, go out and take a quick walk around the house or block. If your celebration is taking place in a colder climate, you'll be more inspired to quicken your pace and burn a few extra calories in the process. If the weather is bad, do 10-20 squats, stretches, or other brief exercise each time you go to the restroom. You only want to do just enough to elevate your heart rate, but not break out into a sweat. Chances are, no one will know what you're doing, and you won't have to feel self-conscious about trying to maintain your figure.

Finally, if you still manage to put on a few extra pounds, don't stress over it. If you've been following a sensible diet and exercise plan, the chances are good that any weight you do gain is going to come off shortly after the holidays are over. 

Author: pilkster

Source: Free Articles

7 Calorie Burning Tips

These are just a few habits you can embrace to start revving your metabolism right away. You may have heard stories about people who have lost dozens of pounds simply switching to diet soda or walking a few minutes each day. These are all small habits that contribute to a big difference and increase your metabolism over time.  You will make weight loss quicker and easier by increasing your metabolic rate and burning more calories.
1) Move More
Sedentary people burn about one-third less calories per day.  By simply taking every opportunity to move can make quite a dramatic difference to the amount of calories you burn in one day. Small movements will add up over time to lots of calories.  The trick is to keep moving throughout your day. Write the word ‘move’ on post-it notes and put them in places you’ll notice them when you’re sitting still. Then, take every opportunity to move – here’s some ideas for burning extra calories:
Tap your feet
Swing your legs
Stand up and stretch
Move your head from side to side
Change position
Wriggle and fidget
Pace up and down
Use the restroom upstairs
Park in the furthest corner of the parking lot
Stand up when you’re on the phone and step from side to side
Clench and release your muscles
2) Eat Little and Often
Evidence suggests that eating small meals every 2-4 hours will keep your metabolism burning faster than larger, less frequent meals. When you eat small amounts often your body is constantly working to digest and absorb food which requires energy. 
3) Eat Fat
If you want feel good and keep the fat off you need to first put it in.  Fat not only tastes good our bodies need it to work efficiently.  By consuming several servings of ‘healthy’ fats every day you will actually increase your calorie burning potential.  Try incorporating fats like Flaxseed oil, hempseed oil, olive oil, avocados, salmon, albacore tuna, nuts and seeds into your diet daily.
4) Drink Cold Water
Evidence shows that your body might expend more calories trying to raise cold water to the temperature of your body then hot beverages. And overall being well hydrated will help your body’s metabolic processes burn quicker.
5) Exercise With Weights
Training with weights boosts your metabolism in a number of ways. By lifting weights you will build muscle tissue. And muscle tissue is metabolically active, so it requires calories even when at rest and so it helps to increase fat-burning enzymes in your body.

6) Spice up
Eating hot spices might speed up your metabolism.  Just half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day can help boost metabolism and keep blood sugar levels in check. Can’t stand the thought of cinnamon in your morning cup of coffee? Spice up with cayenne, crushed red pepper or wasabi.
7) Eat More Protein
Protein requires a more complex chemical breakdown by your body in order to be digested and used as fuel. For example, 100 calories of protein may take up to 30 calories to process.   Protein also takes longer to digest and helps to stabilize blood sugar for longer periods of time  and this can help you to not overeat later in the day.  Eat a portion of protein at every meal and as part of your snacks and you will increase the total number of calories you burn each day.

Author: LaMarion Ziegler

Article Source: http://www.approvedarticles.com

You Are In Control

In large part, you’re in control of your health, not your doctor. And taking control of your health doesn’t really depend on whether or not you ha...

Dianne Ronnow

In large part, you’re in control of your health, not your doctor. And taking control of your health doesn’t really depend on whether or not you have medical conditions. Taking control means developing habits and discipline.

 The most important thing you can do is educate yourself. Learn about your health problems and how you can take care of your body. What do the latest studies say? The Internet is an excellent place to research health issues. Sometimes just finding different ways of doing things can help.

 Now, take the time to decide what your health goals for the next year will be. Write the goal(s) down. Some examples of goals might be:

  - to stop yo-yo dieting and focus on get healthier.

  - to start exercising regularly.

  - to move toward my perfect weight.

  - to find alternative ways to control diabetes.

 Then list specific ways you can accomplish these goals. For instance, try a new healthy dinner recipe once a week, go to the gym five days a week, or research nutrition on the Internet 10 minutes a day.

 Work on your mind and thought patterns. You have to believe that you can become healthy and reach your ideal weight before you will be able to do so. Learning to accept what you can’t change, but striving to change what you can, is key. A large part of succeeding in health improvement is being comfortable with yourself to begin with.

 Find time to do something good to reward yourself for making this commitment to improve your health. Reward yourself each week as you find yourself accomplishing your goals.


 From "The Enzyme Health Diet Plan" by Dianne Ronnow, © 2005 Mohave Publishing. Enzyme-Health.com.

What is Calorie Counting?

Understanding calorie counting will help you on your quest for weight loss. 

WOW! It is easier to lose weight when you understand the necessity for calorie counting.

A calorie is a unit of energy which is released from the food you eat in order to power your body.

Generally speaking, when you eat more calories than you burn, you will put on weight. Moreoer, when you eat around the same as you burn, you should maintain your weight. However, for weight loss it is necessary to eat less and burn more.

Calorie Counting for Weight Loss

First, you must determine your daily calorie needs.

Your basic bodily functions require energy. For example: digestion, circulation, respiration, temperature regulation, cell construction and every other metabolic process in your body. This daily calorie requirement is called Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle will give you the formula for your BMR. Your BMR does not include physical activity.

If your BMR is around 2200 calories and you participate in moderate exercise, then your daily calorie needs would be around 3000 calories. If you are wanting to lose weight, you will need to reduce your calorie intake by 15% - 20%. Therefore, your caloric intake would be around 2400 calories.

Second, set out your calorie intake for the day.

Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle suggests that you eat at reqular intervals during the day.

For example, you may follow this meal schedule.

• #1 Meal - 600 Calories
• Snack - 200 Calories
• #2 Meal - 600 Calories
• Snack - 200 Calories
• #3 Meal - 600 Calories
• Snack - 200 Calories

The total calorie intake for the day would be 2400 calories.

Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle will help you formulate your daily calorie needs. Calorie Counting for weight loss is necessary for getting into shape and healthy living.

Of course, there is much more to learn about calorie counting for weight loss. Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle will give you all the information you need to loss weight by choosing the right foods to eat and making exercise a part of your day.

Author: Tom Venuto
Fat Loss Coach

Less-invasive weight loss surgery safer.

(Reuters) / 23 June 2012

Minimally invasive weight loss surgery is safer than open surgery, with patients suffering fewer complications during those procedures, according to a US study of more than 150,000 people who underwent gastric bypass surgery.
Patients left the hospital sooner, and with a slightly smaller medical bill, after undergoing so-called laparoscopic gastric bypass procedures, in which only a few small cuts in the stomach are made, said researchers at Stanford University in California.
During gastric bypass, the surgeon creates a pouch out of the top portion of the stomach, then connects it to the small intestine so fewer calories are absorbed during digestion, with one large cut being made. Laparoscopic surgery involves a small camera being inserted, and several small cuts.
“The consensus is now overwhelming to suggest a laparoscopic approach first,” said John Morton, who led the research, noting that close to 90 per cent of gastric bypass surgery patients now have it done laparoscopically.
“Pretty much across the board (it has) much better outcomes for patients.”
Morton and his colleagues analysed data on weight loss procedures done at about 1,000 US hospitals each year between 2005 and 2007, including 41,000 open gastric bypass surgeries and 115,000 laparoscopic surgeries.
Looking at safety records, the researchers found about 19 per cent of patients undergoing open surgery had at least one complication, such as developing pneumonia or needing a blood transfusion. Just over 12 per cent of those who had less-invasive surgery developed complications.
One in 500 obese patients in the open surgery group died during or shortly after the procedure, compared with one in 1,000 in the laparoscopic group, according to findings published in the Archives of Surgery.
Open surgery patients also had longer hospital stays, 3.5 days versus 2.4 days, on average.
According to data from the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, about 220,000 people in the United States had weight loss surgery, including gastric bypass, in 2009.
“From the surgeon’s perspective, the ability to see (during) the surgery is enhanced doing it laparoscopically,” said Anita Courcoulas, a professor and bariatric surgeon from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, who wasn’t involved in the study.
“From the patient’s perspective, there’s much less pain, so they can walk and move and return to normal activities sooner.”

Reuters - 23rd June 2012