Special K Diet Tips And Tricks: Juli 2013

Rabu, 31 Juli 2013

The Pros & Cons of Dual Action Cleanse

Dual Action Cleanse is a natural product used to clean the body. Due to the high protein and fat consumption in daily diets, some of the consumed food is not totally removed from the digestive system. As a result, people carry around excessive amount of sludge inside their colon. The importance of Dual Action Cleanse is that it is a natural supplement capable of removing excessive deposits inside the colon. Dual Action Cleanse is often used for weight reduction.

Dual Action Cleanse has two components. One is the body purifier and the other is the colon clear formula. The main feature is to improve and facilitate the removal process of human waste without causing problems such as runny stool or other stomach problems.

Dual Action Cleanse helps to clear and clean the accumulated toxins from the body organs. It purifies organs such as the liver and the kidney by detoxifying them. This particular action is achieved through the total-body purifier. It also helps in weight reduction through these actions, and clears the skin as well.

The second ingredient contained in Dual Action Cleanse is the colon cleanser. This ingredient helps to clean the colon of all the toxic accumulations. Often, clogged up colon may cause other digestive problems. It facilitates bowel movement and improves food digestion and passage through the colon for excretion. This product also may help to increase the energy level in the body.

Dual Action Cleanse contains natural ingredients found in laxatives. There are chances that a user may experience abdominal pain and cramps. Although this problem is not very common, individuals react to medications or natural products like dual action cleanse differently.

Dual Action Cleanse could also cause nausea. This condition again is part of the problems associated with laxatives in general. Some individuals may also experience bloating and related symptoms. General body weakness could also result.

How to Eat Fresh Figs

Tender, plump and sweet, fresh figs are very popular in Europe and along the Mediterranean but are less well known in the United States. A member of the mulberry family, the fig possesses a sweet, chewy flesh and crunchy edible seeds. This ancient fruit is usually available from June to September and can be found in select grocery stores. Figs may be eaten raw or cooked in recipes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Purchase fresh figs. Look for plump and tender figs that possess a deep purple color. They should give off a slightly sweet scent. Avoid figs that are hard, mushy or sour-smelling. If your grocer does not carry figs, head to a specialty food store, such as Whole Foods Market or Trader Joe's.

Wash the fresh figs in cool water. Since figs possess a delicate skin and flesh, be careful not to bruise them.

Cut off the small stem with a sharp knife.

Figs are usually eaten wholeskin and all. There is no need to cut the fig into smaller pieces or to remove the seeds. Simply pop the fig into your mouth and enjoy.

Options: Wrap figs with thin pieces of cooked pancetta (Italian bacon) for a sweet and savory snack. Stuff figs with chopped almonds and mascarpone cheese for a delicious appetizer. Chop figs and add them to oatmeal or a salad.

Good Weight Loss Diet Plans

We all know that a diet for weight loss should include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Such foods are low in calories and rich in antioxidants and vitamins. However, this is just one small part of an overall diet for healthy weight control. There are several food groups that contribute to that growing belly so many of us have. Avoiding certain items while replacing them with healthy substitutes is a simple and effective way to lose weight as part of a balanced diet with regular exercise.

Foods that are high in fat are generally high in calories. Eat low-fat foods to slim down. Ultimately, the number of calories you consume in relation to the number of calories you burn each day will determine how much weight you lose or gain. Skip the hamburgers, bacon, whole milk and cheese. Try low-fat alternatives like turkey burgers, tofu, skim milk and reduced-fat cheese.

Simple carbohydrates convert immediately to sugar in the body, and these sugar molecules are then stored as a fat deposit if not burned off during daily activities. Eating too many simple carbohydrates are the main cause for flabby stomachs and weight gain. Avoid pasta, potato chips, french-fries, white bread and sugary cereals. These foods give you a short energy boost before the sugar molecules get converted into fat. Once this happens, you are likely to feel sluggish and hungry once again. Watch what you drink as well. Sweet beverages like soda, juice, special coffee combinations and milkshakes all have excess sugar which is soon converted into excess fat in the body. Drink as much water as possible instead. Consuming plenty of water facilitates weight-loss.

It goes without saying that you should not eat fatty foods high in carbohydrates like cake, hot-dogs and cookies. However, not all fats and carbohydrates are bad for you. For instance, Omega 3 Fatty Acids are an important nutrient. Eat salmon and tuna as healthy sources of Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Nuts like cashews and almonds are also a good snack. They are high in fat, but rich in protein which provides sustained energy and muscle-building amino acids. You can also consume complex carbohydrates as your primary source of energy. Complex carbohydrates do not convert as rapidly into fat deposits. They take longer to break down, giving you more energy and allowing your body the necessary time to burn off the calories. Eat brown rice, whole-grain bread and pasta, and oatmeal. These foods will fill you up without packing on extra pounds.

Low-Cholesterol & Low-Sodium Diets

If you have been diagnosed as a potential risk for cardiac disease, you will want to take affirmative steps today to safeguard your long-term health. The variables under your control are largely confined to diet and exercise, with a low-cholesterol, low-sodium diet being best for overall heart health. Even if you have not been diagnosed with any current health problems, adopting such a diet is a proactive step you can still take to help keep yourself out of the hospital for years to come.

Increased cholesterol and sodium levels are generally used as markers for potential heart disease. High levels of LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) provide an advance warning of the possibility of cardiac arrest, while high-sodium levels contribute heavily to hypertension, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. Thus, striving to minimize both cholesterol and sodium in your diet are the keys to your cardiac health.

The American Heart Association recommends the following heart-healthy (low-cholesterol and low-sodium) diet. Keep your daily intake of fat between 25 and 35 percent of total daily calories, keep saturated fat to less than 7 percent and trans fats to less than 1 percent. Furthermore, limit sodium to less than 2,300mg daily. Finally, consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and foods containing fiber.

All of the refined flour in your diet should be replaced with items made from whole grains. This includes breads, cereals, pasta and the consumption of brown rice. Also consider adding either oat bran or oatmeal into your regular breakfast rotation. The various nutrients and fiber contained in whole-grain products can have a substantially beneficial effect on heart health and overall cholesterol levels.

Not all fats are bad. While you are striving to minimize intake of saturated and trans fats, you should simultaneously be looking for ways to include additional healthy fats into your diet. Omega-3 fats are especially good at promoting heart health while keeping cholesterol in line. You can increase your overall consumption of omega-3 fats by including wild salmon in your diet at least once or twice a week, or purchasing an over-the-counter fish-oil supplement and taking 5 to 10 grams daily.

While at the grocery store, keep your eyes peeled for low-sodium variants of your favorite foods. Excess sodium also makes its way into most processed foods, so purchase natural foods whenever possible and prepare your own meals to have ultimate control over the sodium content. Another tip you can use to naturally lower your sodium intake is to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables as opposed to the canned variants, as those often contain additional salt.

Selasa, 30 Juli 2013

Diet for Lupus

A diet for lupus can help reduce lupus symptoms as well as control weight gain caused by corticosteriod medications. There isn't a specific diet plan for lupus, which is a chronic inflammatory disorder in which the body's immune system attacks its organs and tissues. However, even if there isn't proven scientific evidence to support a special diet, eating healthy foods and avoiding foods with little if any nutritional benefits can only improve your health whether you have lupus or not. Diets designed to reduce inflammation are particularly helpful.

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, certain foods provide benefits to people suffering with lupus. For example, a study conducted by the American College of Rheumatology showed that Omega-3 fish oils significantly improves the symptoms of lupus while also improving blood vessel function. This helps to keep the heart healthy in lupus patients, who are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease.

Because people with lupus tend to have weak bones from corticosteriod use, include calcium-rich foods in the diet. Some foods to include are milk, cheese or yogurt. Foods containing vitamin D, such as fish, eggs and sweet potatoes, help your body absorb the calcium.

Choose are organic produce and hormone-free animal products, such as meats and eggs. Many people with lupus are sensitive to chemicals in their environment and eliminating as many chemicals as possible can reduce the number of flares you experience.

It is especially important to eat a variety of fresh, natural foods to ensure that your body receives all the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs to function properly. Specific foods that offer benefits include leafy green vegetables and lean meats such as turkey, chicken and lamb, which provide iron to protect against anemia. Fish should also be part of your diet. Salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel are all excellent sources of omega fatty acids. They also contain vitamin D. Whole grains are also a healthy addition to any diet.

Typically, people with auto-immune diseases such as lupus do not absorb nutrients properly. Supplements can supply additional nutrients, however, they should only be taken under your doctor's supervision. It is possible for some products to interfere with medications prescribed for lupus.

Some foods may make symptoms worse. Alfalfa contains the amino acid L-canavanine, which triggers lupus symptoms according to a study cited by The New England Journal of Medicine in Ferbuary 2008. Other foods that could make symptoms worse include fried foods, processed foods and soy products, because may promote inflammation and lead to painful flare-ups.

Produce from nightshade plants contain solanine and may contribute to pain and inflammation. This is unproven, but many patients find relief by avoiding these foods, which include potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and eggplant. The best way to determine if you should eliminate foods is to stop eating them for two weeks to see if your symptoms improve. Slowly reintroduce the suspect foods to see if your symptoms flare.

A List of Low Oxalate Foods

Oxalate is a chemical commonly found in many types of plants. Oxalate can often bind with calcium and then crystallize, which can cause irritation and pain to in your tissues, which leads to increased inflammation. A low oxalate diet contains foods that are low in oxalate. Some people need to follow a low oxalate diet if they have kidney stones that they need to pass.

Low oxalate drinks include fruit juices, cola, ginger ale, cider, milk and water. Some foods to avoid include beer, many types of tea, cocoa and chocolate milk. It's important to drink plenty of fluids if you're on a low oxalate diet and trying to clear kidney stones. In these cases, drinking plenty of water and fruit juices is recommended.

Low oxalate vegetables include squash, cabbage, turnips, red peppers, cauliflower, cucumbers, iceburg lettuce and sprouts. High oxalate vegetables to stay away from include sweet potatoes, beans, celery, spinach, eggplant, beets and celery.

Among the fruits that are low oxalate foods are papayas, apples, lemons, cherries, melons, grapes, lemon and lime juice, nectarines and mangoes. On the other end of the spectrum, high oxalate fruits include berries, plums and tangerines.

Low oxalate grains include cornflakes, egg noodles, white rice, wild rice and rye bread. Foods to limit on a low oxalate diet include wheat germ, oatmeal and whole wheat flour.

Types of meats that are considered low oxalate foods are beef, lamb, pork, fish and shellfish and poultry. Meats in general are not high oxalate foods, but certain meat substitutes, such as beans and tofu, are high oxalate foods that should be avoided if you're on a low oxalate diet.

Most beans, nuts and seeds fall into the medium and high-end of oxalate-rich foods. The few types of foods that are considered low oxalate are lentils, water chestnuts and coconut. Most other beans, nuts and seeds should be avoided if you're staying away from high oxalate foods.

Among the sauces and condiments that fall into the low oxalate category are mustard, nutmeg, oregano, salt, vinegar, vanilla, mayonnaise, butter and vegetable oils. Sauces and condiments that are higher in oxalate include pepper, cinnamon, ginger and soy sauce.

How to Choose Anti-inflammatory Foods

Inflammation in your body feels like an irritation or pain in a localized area that is accompanied sometimes by a loss of use or movement. Arthritis pain is one of the most common inflammations that people experience. Inflammation in the body can also be a part of chronic diseases, such as stroke or heart disease. However, long-term use of medication can lead to other problems such as kidney and stomach irritation. There are other preventative measures that you can take to alleviate your condition.

Instructions

Avoid foods that are known to cause inflammation. These include sugar, corn syrup, meat with high fat content, fast foods and junk food with trans fats and saturated fats, processed meats such as hot dogs, lunch meat and sausage that contain nitrites.

Choose lean meats, low-fat cheeses, milk and dairy products. The protein, calcium, vitamins and minerals found in these foods are important to maintain good health. However, saturated fats are also found in these foods. The lower fat content means you are ingesting less saturated fats which can cause inflammation.

Add oils and fats into your diet that will reduce your body inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to fight inflammation. This fatty acid is found in walnuts, flax seed, pumpkin seeds, cold water fish and canola oil. By adding these foods to your diet you can make a marked improvement, over time, in the amount of inflammation in your body. Olive oil is another beneficial fat for reducing inflammation.

Supplement your diet with Omega-3 capsules in the form of fish oil or flax seed oil. If you arent able to add foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, supplements are a good choice.

Include more fiber in your diet. Studies have shown a high fiber diet reduces inflammation. When you purchase bread, pasta and cereal at the grocery store, look for 100 percent whole grain products. Old-fashioned oatmeal for your breakfast is a good way to add more fiber to your morning meal. Fruits and vegetables add fiber to your diet. Try to get the recommended minimum five servings per day.

Drink water. Good beverages such as pure water, fruit juices, vegetable juices, low-fat milk or herbal teas are all good choices to add additional water to your diet. Healthy liquids have been shown to improve body inflammation.

List of Low-Carbohydrate Cereals

Low-carbohydrate diets like Atkins and the South Beach diet advocate low-carb eating. Other diet plans, including the Zone, advocate controlled carbohydrates. With the popularity of these plans and low-carbohydrate eating in general, low-carbohydrate cereals, snacks and even pasta are now widely available. Low-carbohydrate or not, you must watch portion sizes if you are dieting for weight loss. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Morning Start is a low-carbohydrate cereal made by Atkins. Other foods offered by Atkins include snack bars and protein drinks. Each serving of Morning Start cereal contains 13 to 15 gm of protein, and only 8 to 11 gm of carbohydrates. It comes in flavors such as blueberry and banana nut.

Hi-Lo is a low-carbohydrate and low-sugar cereal. Hi-Lo cereal contains 12 gm of carbohydrates and 5 gm of fiber in each serving. Other beneficial ingredients in Hi-Lo cereal are rosemary extract, vitamin E and soy isoflavones. This basic cereal can be easily dressed up with berries.

Special K is a popular brand of cereal. In addition to the standard Special K, there is a low-carbohydrate version of it. In each serving, there are 10 gm of protein and 14 gm of carbohydrates. The low-carbohydrate Special K cereal is a bit higher in carbohydrates than some of the other brands.

Can You Eat While on the Lemonade Diet?

The lemonade diet is designed to flush the body of toxins and cleanse the digestive system, the kidneys and all of the glands and cells in the body. The diet is meant to be used when the digestive system needs a rest from processed foods, there are chronic conditions (skin rashes, sinus congestion) that need to be disrupted, or weight has become a problem. The lemonade diet is similar to fasting except that it provides minerals and vitamins where water may not. Always consult your doctor before going on any type of diet.

Solid food is not used during the lemonade diet. Instead, the lemonade diet advocates the use of the following mixture in place of the plain water used in fasting: warm spring water, 2 tbsp. of lime or lemon juice, 1/10 tsp. of cayenne pepper and 2 tbsp. of grade B maple syrup. The lemon juice, cayenne and maple syrup are placed in a glass with enough warm water to create a 10-oz. drink. The lemonade is taken six to 12 times a day as the dieter gets hungry. According to the original lemonade diet book, The Master Cleanser, written by the naturopath Stanley Burroughs, the use of frozen lemonade or canned lemon juice will not work to flush the body the way fresh lemon juice will. Use organic lemons where available.

The lemonade diet does allow the user to drink mint tea during the course of the day. According to Burroughs, mint tea will purify and neutralize the mouth and body from odor released while the body is cleansing. Dietary supplements and vitamins should not be taken during the lemonade diet. They may interfere with the cleansing process set in motion by the lemonade mixture. Solid food is not eaten until the dieter is ready to break the diet.

The first day of breaking the diet, only freshly squeezed orange juice should be taken along with the lemonade. An 8-oz. glass of orange juice can be consumed whenever the user desires it. The lemonade should be taken as before---six to 12 times a day when hungry. The second day continues the same as the first day of breaking the diet with the exception of a homemade vegetable soup that should be taken as the evening meal. Burroughs provides the recipe for the soup in his book, The Master Cleanser. He emphasizes that canned soup should not be taken to break the fast.

The third day orange juice is taken for breakfast and through the morning as desired. The vegetable soup is taken at lunch. Dinner on the third day is whatever combination of vegetables, salad or fruit the dieter wants. The fourth day the dieter is able to resume normal eating but the diet plan encourages a fruit, vegetable, seed and berry diet with the use of the lemonade drink for breakfast every morning. Returning to eating meat and dairy products and processed foods can cause digestive disruptions like nausea and bloating.

According to The Master Cleanser, the lemonade drink has the ability to flush the body of toxins. During this diet the tongue will coat and become fuzzy. When the tongue becomes pink and clean, the diet has run its course. Burroughs says that this process will need at least 10 days or more to work fully. He also states that the diet can be undertaken for as long as 40 days before reintroducing solid food.

Senin, 29 Juli 2013

What Is Needed for a Pet African Pancake Tortoise?

Pancake tortoises (Malacochersus tornieri) are unusual little tortoises native to Kenya and Tanzania. In their home range, pancake tortoises live on rocky outcrops, termed kopjes, where they use the deep rock crevices to thermoregulate and hide from predators. Most turtle species' shells are highly domed and made of platelike bones that fit edge-to-edge, but pancake tortoises have flat shells with numerous gaps between the bones of the carapace.

Pancake tortoises are somewhat gregarious; they can and should be kept in small groups -- though mature males shouldn't be kept together. These small but highly active turtles require about 8 square feet of floor space for their enclosure. Commercially produced reptile cages, stock tanks, pond liners or custom-built enclosures can serve pancake tortoises. It is important that the enclosure has a lid or an inward-facing lip to prevent these acrobatic turtles from escaping. It's a concern that doesn't exist with many turtle species. In addition to being escape artists, pancake tortoises are difficult to keep outdoors, particularly in areas with vastly different climates than their tropical home. Indoor housing, with occasional supervised outdoor time, is recommended.

Mimicking pancake turtles' natural habitat is crucial to their long-term maintenance and well-being. Accomplish this by stacking flat rocks in several areas of the enclosure so that numerous narrow gaps exist. In addition to the hiding spots provided by the gaps, the rocks will allow climbing opportunities and visual barriers. Pancake tortoises like to wedge themselves tightly into their hiding spots, so hiding places should fit the turtles snugly. Include several rock piles in the enclosure. The stacks' temperatures will have different temperatures once you add a basking spot. It is important to ensure that the rock piles aren't subject to collapse; use a nontoxic cement to fortify the structures if necessary. Realize that pancake tortoises will wedge themselves into hiding places tightly, using their front arms to lock themselves into place -- don't be alarmed if you aren't able to remove them easily.

Wild pancake tortoises thermoregulate in their rocky habitat; will move from sun to shade, using the temperature gradients within crevices to maintain their body temperatures. For captive pancakes, you'll replicate this by placing at least one heat source over one or more of the rock piles. A dome lamp fitted with a regular incandescent light bulb or ceramic heat emitter works well. Use a thermometer to measure the basking spot, which should be between 95 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Besides a high-temperature basking spot or two, the ambient cage temperature should be in the low to middle 80s. In some cases, the basking spot will accomplish this; if it doesn't, add additional heat lamps. Experiment with wattage and placement until you have appropriate background temperatures as well as a few basking spots.

Pancake tortoises need access to full-spectrum lighting, including the UVB portion of the spectrum. Tortoises use this UVB radiation to produce Vitamin D, and subsequently process their dietary calcium. Accomplish this by allowing regular exposure to unfiltered sunlight or by incorporating UVB producing light bulbs. A few specialty light bulbs produce both the correct light and heat, but most often you'll need two sets of lights: one for heating and one for providing appropriate lighting. Use full-spectrum bulbs over most of the enclosure, which will produce a very bright cage that mimics the tortoises' natural habitat. As the turtles hail from equatorial Africa, the lights should be kept on a 12-hour cycle.

Pancake tortoises are herbivores, and should be maintained on a grass, weed and flower based diet. Bermuda grass, timothy grass and dandelions all make good food sources and should form the bulk of the diet. Offer occasional treats like spineless cactus pads, tomatoes or berries, but these shouldn't be primary components of the diet. Pancake tortoises can be fed daily, though some keepers choose to feed them on an ever-other-day schedule. A shallow dish of clean, fresh water should be provided at all times, even though the tortoises may rarely drink. Some keepers supplement the tortoises' food with additional calcium, but unfortunately, supplementation recommendations vary wildly from one keeper to the next. Consult with your veterinarian to create a supplementation schedule.

The Concerns With Phentermine

Phentermine, a prescription-only weight loss aid also known by brand names, is taken short-term. Many people who do not have underlying health conditions tolerate it. However, you should be familiar with the drug's common side effects before taking it, and if you have a heart condition you should use extreme caution. Consult with your doctor and fill in any health history gaps she may not know before accepting a prescription for Phentermine.

In some patients, Phentermine causes raised blood pressure and elevated heart rate. In otherwise healthy patients, this may not be a major concern. However, in patients who already have high blood pressure, heart disease or other heart-related health conditions, Phentermine could put dangerous stress on the cardiovascular system, explains eMedTV. This stress can lead to a heart attack or stroke in the most serious of cases. Your doctor is the only person qualified to determine if taking Phentermine is in your best interest. Your doctor may give you an EKG or other diagnostic test to determine whether or not Phentermine is right for you. Always be honest with your doctor about your health, particularly if you have experienced any cardiovascular issues in the past.

Phentermine is a controlled substance and is capable of causing addiction, especially with misuse. One of the most common side effects of Phentermine in those who tolerate the drug well is a feeling of mild euphoria. Many may feel that euphoria is a good side effect, but patients may enjoy that sensation too much. Overuse can lead to addiction, according to WebMD. Additionally, taking Phentermine too long can lead to raised tolerance, which can lead to an even higher risk of addiction. Always take Phentermine according to your doctor's exact directions, and never purchase this drug from an online pharmacy that does not require a prescription.

Phentermine is known to cause certain side effects. Milder ones are not life-threatening, but they are uncomfortable. Dry mouth, constipation and headaches are some of the most common. Jitteriness, insomnia and diarrhea are also reported on Drugs.com. Report more serious side effects and allergic reactions to your doctor immediately. They include swollen mouth, chest pains, swelling of the extremities, bizarre or irrational behavior, fainting and impotence in men. Any unusual behavior or effects should be cause for concern. Err on the safe side, and speak with your doctor about any changes in your body or mind while taking Phentermine.

Polymyalgia Symptoms

Minggu, 28 Juli 2013

How to Do the Ideal Protein Diet

A surge of low-carbohydrate diets has inevitably led to a higher protein intake. The dangers of some protein diets is their welcome acceptance of all kinds of protein sources, many fat laden and often in excess. For ultimate nutrition, any eating plan which severely restricts huge groups of foods often predisposes individuals to deficiencies: instead, follow a protein diet which makes room for complete nutrition.

Instructions

Eat lean, fresh meat and seafood whenever possible. Any protein source comes with calories, so determine how many you need. Leaner cuts of meat will have less calories allowing you to get more protein in the same amount of meat. Look at expiration dates to determine the freshness of meats. Since meat is a candidate for food borne illness, buying meat that is locally sourced and responsibly treated (or is at least within it's expiration period) can be your best protection against possible risks. Look for fish without a fishy smell, bruising, or browning. Firm, elastic skin on the fish indicates that it is being sold fresh.

Look for alternative protein sources. Looking beyond meat to protein-rich plant sources allows for the benefits of some added fiber and antioxidants. The disease-preventing antioxidants found in soy foods (tofu, etc.) and beans enrich your diet while providing a low-fat, muscle-building foods rich in protein. Since the protein in plant foods is not as bio available as the protein in meat and dairy, you'll have to eat slightly more to enhance absorption and to get the same amount of protein.

Include a variety of other foods in moderation. It may seem logical to eat a selection of high-protein foods and fore go carbohydrates, but that pattern is detrimental to optimal health. Calcium and B vitamins (especially folic acid) can become deficient if not enough whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are eaten. Dairy products offer vitamin D and calcium. High-quality protein sources should be teamed with these other foods --- the American Dietetic Association recommends about 55-60% of daily intake from carbohydrates.

Eat less "empty calories." Cut back or eliminate foods with added sugars such as fruit juices, candies and many processed foods. Doing that makes it easier to shift the consumed calories toward a more protein-rich, ideal diet.

Foods to Avoid for TIC Disorder

Gas-X Side Effects

Gas-X is the brand name for an over-the-counter medication used to treat excessive gas in the stomach. Even though this medication is effective, safe and used by many people, additional information will enable better understanding of how it works and any potential side effects.

The symptoms of too much gastrointestinal gas are quite well known---bloating, pressure, feeling too full, and subsequent abdominal pain, flatulence and belching. There are several reasons why excess gas becomes trapped, but the most common causes are certain foods, such as beans and cabbage, eating too quickly, swallowing air and carbonated drinks. Certain medical conditions can also lead to trapped gas. The most common are chronic indigestion, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulosis.

The active ingredient in Gas-X is simethicone. It is considered to be an "anti-foaming" agent that works by decreasing the surface tension of the many gas bubbles causing the uncomfortable symptoms. Simethicone does not reduce the amount---or prevent the formation---of gas. It works by increasing the speed with which the gas leaves the body.

What does decreasing surface tension have to do with expelling gas more quickly? Surface tension refers to the fact that molecules attract one another---pulling each one toward the other---and this creates tension. This tension is stronger in the center where there are more molecules pulling toward one another from all sides. Toward the surface, this "pull" results in shrinking the surface area and that creates the surface tension. When simethicone reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles, it is easier for them to be expelled.

Simethicone works in the stomach to disperse trapped gas. It is not absorbed into the blood so it is considered to be very safe. No significant side effects have been reported, but it is possible that Gas-X may cause mild diarrhea and heartburn. On the very rare chance that you are allergic to this medication, be sure to immediately seek professional help. The typical symptoms of a serious allergic reaction are rash, itching, swelling, dizziness and breathing.

The dosage directions on the package should always be strictly followed. Do not take other simethicone containing medications at the same time as Gas-X without first talking to your physician. If you are pregnant, have liver or kidney disease, or any other illness it is also advisable to consult a physician before taking even such a safe medication to be sure it won't interact with other medications you may be taking.

Sabtu, 27 Juli 2013

How to Calculate How Many Calories to Eat to Lose Weight

You must create a deficit in calorie intake in order to lose weight. It is not difficult to calculate how many calories a day you require to lose weight. Basically, you need to do some simple math equations. There are many calorie calculators that can be found on the World Wide Web as well, if you do not trust your math abilities.

Instructions

A calorie is basically a measure of heat energy. When the food you have eaten is burned, it then releases a certain amount of heat, or energy. The amount of energy it releases depends on the type of food consumed. The more calories that are in a particular food, then the more energy will be released as it is burned. 3500 calories is equal to one pound.

If you want to lose approximately one pound per week, then reduce your calorie intake by approximately 500 calories a day. You may also choose to exercise to burn off those 500 calories a day.

The minimum daily caloric intake differs for each individual, since everyone has a different body composition and activity level. Some guidelines have been set by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). They recommend no fewer than 1200 calories per day for women and no fewer than 1800 calories per day for men.

Tom Venuto, one of the worlds best bodybuilders and fitness models and author of Burn the Fat Feed the Muscle, writes that you must give up on the entire concept of dieting on very low calories to lose weight.

This formula uses the factors of height, weight, age and sex to determine BMR (basal metabolic rate), making it an accurate calculation in determining your calorie needs. This equation is quite accurate in all but the extremely muscular or extremely obese individual.

Your BMR is the amount of calories your body burns for all of your daily bodily functions, including digestion, temperature control, circulation, respiration, cell reconstruction and every other metabolic process carried on by your body every day. It does not include exercise.

Calculate your BMR with the following formula

Men: BMR = 66 + (13.7 x weight in kilograms) + (5 x height in centimeters) - (6.8 x age in years)
Women: BMR = 655 + (9.6 x weight in kilograms) + (1.8 x height in centimeters) - (4.7 x age in years)

Note: 1 inch equals 2.54 cm
1 kg equals 2.2 pounds

Once you know your BMR, calculate your TDEE (total daily energy expenditure) by multiplying your BMR by one of the following activity factors.

Sedentary equals BMR times 1.2 (little or no exercise, desk job)
Lightly active equals a BMR times 1.375 (light exercise/sports 1 to 3 days per week)
Moderately active equals BMR times 1.55 (moderate exercise/sports 3 to 5 days per week)
Very active equals BMR times 1.725 (hard exercise/sports 6 to 7 days per week)
Extremely active equals BMR times 1.9 (hard daily exercise/sports and physical job or two times a day training, marathon, football camp, contests).

The result of this formula gives you the number of calories that you can eat every day to maintain your current weight. In order to lose weight, you'll need to eat fewer calories than your resulting TDEE.

An example for a 30-year-old woman weighing 176 pounds and 5'6" tall and moderately active would be:

655+ (9.6 x 80) + (1.8 x 168) - (4.7 x 30)
665+768+302-141 = 1594 calories per day.

Now multiply the BMR of 1594 by an activity factor to discover TDEE:

She needs 1594 x 1.55 = 2470.7 calories per day to maintain her previous weight.

FDA Regulations on GM Foods

The Food and Drug Administration is one of the main government agencies responsible for regulating genetically modified foods in the United States. Since the onset of GM foods in the marketplace, the FDA established various rules about the products. Many organizations support these regulations, while others believe they don't go far enough.

According to FDA regulations, all companies introducing new GM foods for market must consult with the organization at least 120 days before release. Health safety data must be made available to the public.

The FDA, while not requiring companies to place labels on packaging, outlines specific guidelines regarding voluntary labeling. For example, a company cannot label a product "GM-free" if genetically modified materials are used.

One specific protein, Cry9C, found in yellow corn is regulated by the FDA. The agency requires a testing protocol and sampling when the corn's protein is found in products designed for human use.

According to the Organic and Non-GMO Report, biotechnology companies support the general regulations controlled by the FDA. But consumer and environmental groups criticize the FDA for a lack of rules.

The FDA has been the subject of a number of lawsuits regarding its regulations on GM foods. One of the most notable of these is a 2006 lawsuit from the Center for Food Safety claiming the FDA is responsible for "unreasonable delay" in dealing with new laws.

Jumat, 26 Juli 2013

Loose Teeth in Teenagers

You flash your teeth when you smile and use them to enjoy your favorite foods, so it is little wonder why a loose permanent tooth is such a concern. While many children have gained their adult teeth by the early teen years, other teenagers may experience loose baby teeth for years to come. Losing baby teeth is typically not a cause for concern. If you suspect that your teen has loose adult teeth, visit a dentist immediately.

Besides loose teeth, teenagers suffering from periodontitis, or gum disease, may also experience swollen or brightly colored gums, bad breath and widening gaps between teeth, say experts with the Mayo Clinic website. A lack of proper dental care, like not brushing or flossing the teeth regularly, may contribute to the development of gum disease. Teenagers can reduce or reverse the effects of gum disease by brushing after every meal and getting regular dental cleanings.

While teeth can be strong and durable, they are not immune to damage. Children may be at risk of tooth injury that leads to loose or knocked-out teeth if they play contact sports, advise child development experts with the Kids Health website. Teenagers should check their teeth after any injury to the mouth and seek help immediately if any teeth are damaged. If a tooth is knocked out, soak it in milk and visit a dentist immediately, advises the American Academy of Pediatrics. After half an hour outside of the socket, the odds of successfully putting the tooth back into place drop.

Many factors can lead to loose teeth. A nutritionally empty diet or lack of food, persistent fatigue, tobacco use and drinking or eating sugary and starchy foods like soda pop or candy are more likely to lead to gum disease, or periodontitis, say the Kids Health professionals. Other drug use can also contribute to loose and damaged teeth, says Dr. Dan Peterson, a dentist in Nebraska. Regular use of drugs like methamphetamine may cause teeth to loosen, fall out or decay to the root of the tooth.

No matter the cause behind your teenager's loose adult teeth, you should contact a dentist or doctor immediately for help. These professionals can rule out serious illness and look for clues to explain your child's dental problems. Dietary or other lifestyle changes, like no longer using drugs, may be necessary to prevent further damage. In some cases, dental surgery may be necessary to save teeth

Collagen Foods

Collagen is part of the connective tissue found all over our bodies and is made from protein and large amounts of two amino acids: hydroxylsine and hydroxyproline. While food doesn't contain collagen, eating a balanced diet that includes foods like legumes, fruit, vegetables, fish, nuts and other lean proteins helps promote collagen growth.

Eat legumes, in particular, peanuts,for a significant source of the amino acid lysine. Include chickpeas in your menus as a healthy source of zinc, copper and selenium, minerals needed for collagen production. Nuts like cashews, pecans, almonds and Brazil nuts contain healthy omega acids that promote collagen by creating an ideal environment for its production. Flaxseed is also an important source of omega-3.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with deeply colored red and blue berries and fruits such as cherries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. They've been shown to contain anthocyanidins that help link collagen fibers together and strengthen connective tissue. Red fruits have lycopenes which increase collagen production. Help your body produce collagen with vitamin C. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes are natural sources. Neutralize free radicals that break down the collagen in healthy skin tissues from the inside out with fruits high in antioxidants. For a serious antioxidant boost, add five or six prunes to your diet.

Eat red, green and orange vegetables to boost your antioxidants and collagen production. Work vitamin A rich raw carrots and baked sweet potatoes in combination with sulphur rich green and black olives, fresh cucumbers, and celery to keep collagen levels high. Add at least 2 to 4 oz. daily of green leafy vegetables like spinach, collard greens , cabbage and kale to your diet to increase the level of the collagen-producing agent, lutein.

Support your collagen tissue by eating a variety of proteins. Fish, lean meats, eggs, low-fat dairy products and nuts and seeds are sources of lysine and proline amino acids. Eat foods high in lysine and proline with vitamin C to convert them into their collagen forms. Get zinc, copper and selenium, the minerals required for collagen production from chicken, lean beef and oysters. Vegetarians getting their protein from soy products need not worry. Soy meat and dairy substitutes contain genistein which has collagen-producing qualities and blocks enzymes that break down and age skin.

Kamis, 25 Juli 2013

How to Choose Diabetes Friendly Cereal

If you are diabetic, you must count carbohydrates. For those who love cereal, it can be frustrating trying to find a cereal low in carbs. They do exist, though. Once you know how to read cereal labels, you can choose a cereal that is diabetic friendly. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Learn about carbohydrate grams. One carbohydrate serving is 15 grams of carbohydrates. Depending upon your age, weight and blood sugar levels, you are allowed two to four servings of carbs for each meal.

Factor in the milk and optional fruit. If you have a bowl of cereal, make sure you allow for the carbohydrates in milk and fruit. Four ounces of milk contains 6 grams of carbs. One-half cup of fruit has 15 grams of carbs. Figure 6 grams for the milk and approximately 8 grams for 1/4 cup of fruit. So the fruit and milk is equivalent to one serving of carbs.

Read the serving size on the cereal box. You want a cereal that will allow you to have at least 1/2 to 3/4 cup of cereal. Special K Protein Plus is 14 grams of carbohydrates for 3/4 cup of cereal. It is one good choice for a diabetic diet.

Besides the carbohydrates, check the sugar and fat. You want a cereal that is no more than 3 grams of fat. Sugar should be no more than a few grams.

Check the fiber content. If the cereal is 5 or more grams of fiber, divide the fiber in half and subtract it from the carbohydrate total. A cereal that has 20 grams of carbohydrates but 10 grams of fiber actually is 15 grams of carbohydrates once you subtract the 5 grams of fiber. That cereal is a good choice because it is one serving of carbohydrates.

Rabu, 24 Juli 2013

How to Schedule a Daily Routine Workout for Losing Weight

Healthy weight loss is a matter of changing your day-to-day habits on a long-term basis. One of these habits is regular exercise, which will burn calories, increase muscle tone and speed up your metabolism -- making your body's systems more efficient. However, it's often challenging to fit exercise into your daily routine, especially if you're busy. A plan will help you find or create intervals in your schedule to fill with exercise.

Instructions

Look for gaps in your schedule. For example, if you usually finish work at 5 p.m. but do not have to pick up your spouse until 6:15 p.m., you could slot a workout in this gap.

Work out at lunch time if your gym is close. This will energize you for the rest of the day. To save on time, eat at your desk either before or after your workout.

Exercise at the same time each day. This will make it a daily habit rather than an occasional chore, and will therefore be easier to do.

Work out with a friend on the same schedule. This will make it harder to miss workouts and make excuses, as there will be someone else you have to be accountable to.

Perform exercise that is short duration and high intensity rather than exercise that is the opposite. For example, rather than jog for 40 minutes, sprint for one minute, jog for two minutes, and repeat for 20 minutes. This burns more calories than jogging alone.

Perform regular resistance training that uses compound movements and focuses on strength. This means that you should be doing a lot of squats, deadlifts, bench presses and overhead presses with a high enough weight that you can only do five repetitions. If you do this, you can work your whole body in approximately 45 minutes.

Miso Soup & Weight Loss

Miso soup has a wide range of health benefits and can help you lose weight because it only has 25 calories per bowl. With those 25 calories, the soup also has 2 grams of protein. A few ingredients in particular make miso soup a good choice for a healthy diet. However, its high sodium content can be a concern. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Miso soup contains B12, the best vitamin complex to take for energy-boosting needs. It helps encourage weight loss by speeding up the body's metabolic rate. The two factors are linked: The more energy you have, the more apt you are to exercise, which is essential to losing weight. Vitamin B12 also can prevent depression, which can lead to weight gain.

Miso soup has a complex of protective fatty acids that come from natural fats and oils and can help keep weight off. The body can produce most fatty acids it needs, but it can't produce omega 3, which is in miso soup.

Miso soup is made from a thick paste of fermented soybeans, as well as various grains such as barley, rice or wheat. The soybean paste could be fermented anywhere from five days to five years. The longer the fermentation, the darker the substance. However, soybean paste is known for its large sodium content, which does not help weight loss.

The fermented soybean paste in miso soup can reduce the risk of breast cancer. The soup also helps balance out the female hormone estrogen, which can cause tumors. It also contains a variety of antioxidants and vitamin E, which is good for the complexion. The wakame seaweed in miso soup helps lower blood pressure and can even combat nicotine addiction. It's also good for boosting your immune system after an illness.

Miso soup is a great small meal or snack that can encourage weight loss and fight illness. However, if your doctor has advised you to stay away from food with high levels of sodium, miso might not be the best choice for your diet.

How to Make Weight Loss Soup

Losing weight is simple: Simply eat more healthy food and less junk food while getting more exercise and burning calories. Soup recipes provide a tasty way to eat more vegetables and get more fiber in your diet. Replace a few meals a week with a chicken and vegetable soup, and you can easily lose a pound or two in a healthy way. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Personalize this recipe according to your own tastes. Add more of your favorite vegetables, and less of your least favorites.

Put water and chicken pieces into a pot. Add lemon juice to help extract calcium from the chicken bones, an onion and celery. Let boil for about an hour. Once the chicken is completely cooked, strain the water for the soup, and set aside the chicken. Throw out the vegetables. Clean chicken off the bones once it has cooled and save for later.

Chop all vegetables coarsely into small pieces. Using a food processor would be best for the amount of chopping that is required for this soup.

Add all vegetables into the leftover water used to cook the chicken. Let the soup simmer for at least a half hour with a couple cubes of bullion or salt. Use an immersion blender for a few seconds to thicken the soup.

Clean chicken from bones and cut into small, bite-sized pieces

Add the crushed tomatoes and all seasonings to your own personal taste preference. Add chicken pieces and a couple tablespoons of olive oil.

Serve soup and top with freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, pepper and a bit of Parmesan.

How to Detox With Soup

Detoxing, or cleansing, diets focus on providing the body with essential nutrients while eliminating waste and toxins. There are hundreds of detox plans to choose from, with many gaining popularity due to celebrity endorsement. It is important to educate yourself before choosing a detox diet. Detoxing the body with raw, anti-fungal soups is one way to combat harmful toxins and supply the body with digestible energy. Soup recipes can be found online or you can develop and blend your own.

Instructions

A typical detox diet should last seven to 10 days. During the cleanse, focus on consuming freshly juiced, nutrient-rich green vegetables, including kale, spinach, cucumber, cabbage, celery, broccoli, avocado, collard greens and okra.

Chop vegetables into bite-sized chunks. Add the pieces to a blender. Puree for one to two minutes or until the vegetables are reduced to liquid form. Add more ingredients to flavor the puree as needed, such as onions, garlic, cilantro, salt, pepper and other herbs.

Heat the pureed soup on the stove for five minutes or in the microwave for three minutes, or until the desired temperature is reached.

Eat one to two bowls of soup per day during your cleanse.

How to Make Basic Fat Burning Diet Soup

The Basic Fat Burning Soup Diet (also called the Cabbage Soup Diet) is a cleansing diet that consists of eating unlimited amounts of a vegetable soup to produce rapid weight loss. It is generally part of a seven day plan that calls for small amounts of fruits, other vegetables and protein. The soup also can be incorporated into other diets as a low-calorie snack or side dish.

Instructions

Chop cabbage, onions, celery and peppers into bite size pieces. Spray soup pot with cooking spray and add the vegetables.

Cook the vegetables for five minutes on "Medium High" heat. Add the tomatoes and onion soup mix, and stir.

Pour 8 cups of water into the pot, thoroughly covering the vegetables. Set the heat to "High," and bring the soup to a boil.

Reduce heat to "Low," and place a lid on the pot. Simmer the soup for at least 30 minutes or as long as two hours, for a stronger flavor.

Add a pinch each of salt and pepper before serving, then taste the soup and season to your liking. Add two drops of hot sauce or 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for more flavor.

Selasa, 23 Juli 2013

How to Lose 3 Pounds a Day

In order to lose three pounds in a day, you must be dedicated and motivated. Proper diet and exercise is the winning combo for weight loss according to Shape.com. It will be a challenge, but sticking to these steps will greatly increase your chances of success.

Instructions

Eat a breakfast that is rich in whole grains and lean protein, such as a hard boiled egg and steel-cut oatmeal. It will make you feel full.

Write down the calories count in everything you eat. Most people can safely eat 1100 a day. Make sure what you eat is nutritionally sound; avoid eating empty calories, such as candy.

Carry a 20-ounce bottle of water with you all day and drink at least four full bottles throughout the day. This will flush your system out. Remember, your weight can fluctuate due to water weight from day to day.

Get 60 minutes of cardiovascular exercise each day. Take the stairs, take a walk on your lunch break, and get your heart rate up at the gym for at least 30 solid minutes.

Do the math. HealthyWeightForum.org will tell you exactly how many calories you need to eat to maintain your weight. A 500-calorie deficit will create a one pound loss.

The Vegetable Soup Diet

The vegetable soup diet was developed for those who have trouble following other weight-loss plans. On this plan participants are allowed to eat vegetable soup as much as they'd like. The soup makes a decent low-calorie filler, but the plan itself is not substantial enough to be followed long term without potential health risks. It is, however, an effective diet for those seeking to drop a few pounds before beginning a long-lasting healthy eating plan.

The vegetable soup diet is a weight-loss plan that has been designed for short-term use. The weeklong diet is based on portion-controlled, low-fat meals and a nourishing vegetable soup. Soup portions are not measured or restricted, so dieters can keep their hunger at bay by eating as much of it as they like. A large pot of the basic soup is prepared the evening before the start of the diet. Each day, the basic soup is modified in some way to keep dieters from becoming bored. Each meal contains 300 to 400 calories, for a daily total of 1200 calories on average. As a bonus for good behavior, twice a week dieters are encouraged to choose a 100 calorie snack of their choice. Additionally, dieters are allowed to have celery sticks, strips of bell pepper, cucumber wedges or carrot sticks any time they feel the urge.

The original soup recipe makes 28 cups of basic vegetable soup. Begin by coating a large stock pot or soup kettle with nonstick cooking spray. Add 1 pound of sliced carrots, four peeled and chopped onions, five sliced stalks of celery, 1 pound of sliced mushrooms, three chopped bell peppers, and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes. Then add 48 ounces of undrained canned diced tomatoes, 1 pound of shredded green cabbage, 1 pound of fresh green beans, 64 ounces of chicken broth, and 2 quarts of water. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and cover the soup. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, then add 12 ounces of baby spinach leaves and 1 pound of sliced zucchini. Cover and simmer 10 minutes more. Customize the vegetables in the recipe, leaving out anything you don't care for and adding those you'd prefer, except potatoes, beans, corn, avocado or peas.

Once the soup has been made, it can be kept in the refrigerator for the remainder of the week. To alter the basic recipe, measure 2 cups into a medium saucepan, then stir in up to 1 cup of any of the following: cup cannellini beans, cup black beans, cup kidney beans, cup cooked pasta, 3 ounces of boneless skinless chicken breast, cup corn, 4 ounces of skinless fish fillets, cup salsa, 4 ounces of ground turkey breast or 2 ounces of turkey kielbasa. Top with 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, or reduced-fat sour cream and season with basil, chili powder, cilantro, dill, paprika or any of your favorite herbs. For example, the make a Southwestern style soup, you might combine ground turkey that has been browned and drained with black beans, crumbled tortilla chips, chopped cilantro and a dash of cumin.

Senin, 22 Juli 2013

Water, Lemon & Honey Diet

Water, lemon, and honey are the ingredients for a good cup of warm tea or perhaps lemonade. "Lemonade" for dieting purposes has become a popular topic and practice over the past two years. Many dieters have turned to a tonic of fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and cayenne pepper as a way to stave off hunger and lose weight. Honey is a variant ingredient to maple syrup that some people prefer. Does the diet really work and is it safe?

The idea of The Master Cleanse, or the "Lemonade Diet" had a resurgence with the 2007 publication of Tom Woloshyn's "The Complete Master Cleanse." Woloshyn's ideas come largely from the 1976 book, "Master Cleanser" by Dr. Stanley Borroughs.

The primary idea of the cleanse is that drinking a mixture of fresh lemon juice, water, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper offers a complete array of essential daily nutritives. As a result, the mixture staves off hunger. The books discuss the "lemonade diet" as part of a cleansing ritual to make fasting easier and to help the body eliminate toxins.

Some people have begun using the "lemonade diet" outside the confines of the Master Cleanse as a way to lose weight. Woloshyn' and Borroughs' theories hold that the nutrients in lemon juice contain most of what a person needs in a day. The maple syrup provides some essential carbohydrates and other nutrients. And the cayenne pepper not only adds flavor, but also assists in the elimination and the intake of B vitamins.

Some people like to substitute honey for maple syrup. For dieting purposes, this probably doesn't change the low calorie intake and flushing that induces weight loss. However, both authors are clear in their books that honey is not a good substitute for maple syrup for nutritional reasons. The authors feel their particular cocktail's nutritive value makes it so that a person doesn't become hungry when on the "lemonade diet."

Replacing normal eating with an all-liquid diet containing only a few ingredients has its risks. While it may assist in a quick weight loss, many physicians would advise that it's not a healthy way to lose weight.

Even many of the websites dedicated to the Master Cleanse --- like MasterCleanse.org and PureInsideOut.com advise doing the cleanse under the supervision of a naturopath or herbalist.

Before beginning a diet of this nature, it's always wise to consult a physician.

The Best Diet for Hyperthyroid

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive. When too much thyroid hormone is produced by the thyroid gland, it is toxic, therefore, this condition is also known as thyrotoxicosis. Hyperthyroidism is best treated with anti-thyroid drug.

Thyroid hormones control the rate at which the cells burn fat and metabolize. Excessive thyroid hormones can cause weight loss. Other symptoms include increased heart rate, hyperactivity and frequent bowel movements, which can cause further weight loss.

Your diet doesn't have much of an effect on hyperthyroidism. However, it can help with the common symptom of weight loss that people with hyperthyroidism experience. Try increasing the amount of calories you consume daily until you reach a healthy weight. This can include a lot of lean meats, carbohydrates, and healthy fats such as nuts, cheese, and dark chocolate.

A part of your diet that can lead to hyperthyroidism is excessive iodine intake. This is usually only an issue in people who are prone to thyroid gland imbalance. Large quantities of table salt or shellfish contain excessive iodine. The heart disease medication, Cordarone, also contains a lot of iodine.

If you have hyperthyroidism avoid including table salt, seafood, eggs, dairy, and iodine-rich plants in your diet.

Excessive iodine intake is only one possible cause of hyperthyroidism. Grave's disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to make antibodies. The antibodies attach themselves to the thyroid gland, causing it to release excess thyroid hormones. Other causes, such as inflammation of the thyroid gland or a nodule of it are possible, but not as common as Grave's disease.

Sabtu, 20 Juli 2013

How to Lose Water Weight in a Day

Water accumulation can lead to bloating and the appearance of excess fat. Fluid retention may develop due to menstruation, carbohydrate consumption, or an overabundance of alcohol. Most of us have had occasions when it would be nice to feel and appear a little lighter in our skin and clothes. If you want to lose water weight for a big event or a day at the beach, it is possible to lose water weight in a day.

Instructions

Get a body wrap. Salon body wraps can cost around $100. They often use caffeine and seaweed in combination with a plastic covering to induce the body to eliminate excess fluids. Many salons that offer this service have the client exercise while the wrap is on the body to increase fat and fluid loss. Body wraps can be purchased and used at home as well.

Eliminate salt and carbohydrates for the day. Do not eat any carbohydrates including pasta, potatoes or bread. In addition, stay away from saturated fat and salty foods. Eat all raw vegetables for the day. Sodium contributes to water retention.

Do not drink any alcohol. Alcohol contributes to bloat. Drink green tea or water instead. Water helps to eliminate excess sodium that may contribute to bloat.

Take a supplement that contains chromium, l-glutamine, l-arginine and lysine. These are all fat burners and will help lessen the appearance of bloat.

Take a natural diuretic. The Mayo Clinic states that dandelion, ginger, and juniper are natural diuretics. The effects of these herbs is relatively mild, but safer than taking a chemical diuretic.

Try a chemical over-the-counter diuretic for one day water weight loss. These products contain chemical substances that induce the body to eliminate water.

Side Effects of Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup has long been a staple in many cultures, especially those in Eastern Europe. Cabbage soup is cheap, filling and can be spruced up with onions or other inexpensive flavorings. The concoction is also a popular mainstay of the cabbage soup diet, a low-calorie crash diet that people still follow today. Cabbage soup on its own has several side effects, with more severe and additional effects for those who are following the diet plan.

Dizziness, weakness and headaches may be a side effect of cabbage soup if its the main staple of the diet. Cabbage contains a lot of fiber and some nutrients, but it is lacking in protein and low in carbohydrates. If other foods containing the daily recommended dosage of protein and carbohydrates are also consumed, the cabbage soup should not produce a lightheaded or woozy feeling.

Lots of fiber, which is found in cabbage soup, can sometimes produce stomach cramps, a stomach ache or abdominal pain. Cabbage soup may also build up a lot of gas. Gas is often accompanied by bloating and a swollen or extended stomach.

Cabbage soup is ideal for flushing out the system, which means lots of cabbage soup may mean lots of trips to the bathroom. Cabbage works as a detoxifier, ridding the body of toxins and unnecessary substances, but detoxification can come with the price of diarrhea. Cabbage is watery and filled with fiber, which allow it to readily move through the digestive system.

The American Heart Association says that fad diets, such as the cabbage soup diet, can not only give you a host of side effects but can also undermine your health. Any diet that does not include exercise is circumspect, the association says. The cabbage soup diet, in particular, leads to rapid weight loss because it flushes out the system while the main food intake is low-calorie fruits and vegetables with a bit of protein thrown in. The main weight loss seen is due to water loss. Once someone starts eating a regular diet after the cabbage soup stint, the weight may be quickly regained.

5-Day Workout Plan to Lose Weight

Jumat, 19 Juli 2013

Tips to Lose Weight in One Month

Deciding to lose weight can lead some to dread painful exercises and starvation diets. Rather than following fad programs, altering your diet while increasing your physical activity will lead to healthy weight loss. With a few tips, you will see a slimmer body in one month.

Losing weight by altering your diet comes in two steps. The first is to reduce your calorie intake. The average person requires 2,000 calories a day and it takes 3,500 calories to gain or lose one pound. This means that you need to burn 3,500 calories more than your body needs to lose one pound. The same goes for gaining a pound. Even if you stick to healthy food, eating more than you need will not result in weight loss.

After you've reduced your calorie intake, you'll need to pair it with easting healthier. Don't spend money on weight loss supplements or power bars. Instead create a diet plan that incorporates larger amounts of fruits and vegetables as well as lean protein such as chicken. If you drink alcohol or sugary drinks, cut them out of your diet for the month. Switching from soda to water will also result in more lost weight.

Along with diet, the biggest component to losing weight in one month is to begin an exercise regimen. Based on the amount of weight you wish to lose, you need to exercise around three times a week for between 45 to 60 minutes a day. Cardio exercise, such as biking and running, will burn calories which along with your diet will help you shave off pounds. Know that if you choose to work on weight training, you may end up putting on weight. This new weight will be muscle that can result in a sleeker firmer body that diet alone cannot achieve. Sticking only to weight loss, focus more on running. If you cannot run, choose brisk walking. A brisk walk is defined by moving fast enough that it is difficult to carry on a normal conversation. Walking too slow won't give you the results you're looking to achieve.

The hardest part about losing weight is trying to do it on your own. Rather than going on a one month diet and exercise plan by yourself, pair up with a friend who is also looking to lose some weight. Keep each other on track by suggesting low calorie snacks and recipes and working out together. Some prefer working out alone, but having a buddy with you can prevent workouts from becoming boring. Having a partner means you can also have someone to talk you through difficult days or weeks if the weight hasn't come off. Keeping yourself emotionally healthy will help you get fit and lose weight.

Cheap Liquid Diets

When it comes to dropping the pounds, there are many ways to get the job done. Some people must lose weight quickly in preparation for a medical procedure and some are looking for a personal challenge to shed extra weight. Liquid dieting is a process of drinking fluids, almost exclusively, to greatly reduce calorie intake. If you're on a budget and prefer a liquefied loss, you have a few options to choose.

Sometimes it's mandatory for you to go on a liquid diet for a few days or weeks in order to prep for an important surgery or post-procedure adjustment. In this case, you can drink your way to your goal with chicken broth, vegetable juice or a sports drink. These are all inexpensive temporary meal replacements that are available at your local grocer.

It's always best to check with your physician before going on a liquid diet. Once you have the green light, a cheap and easy diet to start is the liquid only-clear diet. For breakfast, lunch and dinner, your daily menu will consist of fruit juices, water, gelatin, a broth and coffee or tea. Treat yourself to frozen fruit-juice pops for a light snack. Not only will you save on calories, but this budget-friendly menu will save money as well. Supplement any missing nutrients with vitamins.

For a heartier alternative, meal replacement shakes are a popular choice. Pureeing fruits and vegetables is a perfect option to get the best bang out of your buck while sticking to your diet plan. Purchase large bags or containers of fruits and veggies, then pre-make shakes and freeze them for daily use. This is a cost-saving alternative to purchasing pre-made smoothies and shakes.

There are several liquid diet programs from commercial retailers such as Slim Fast, Medifast and even Kellogg's Special K. Brands like these often encourage use of shakes or soups in place of a full meal and offer several protein bars, cookies and crackers as snacks. This is the most expensive within your low-cost options; shop for your protein and meal replacement shake brand at your discount superstore of choice for a cheap rate.

Foods to Eat to Lose Weight

While any balanced diet of healthful foods and an exercise program will help you lose weight, there are a few foods in particular that ward off hunger, provide you with necessary nutrients to help your body lose weight and even help you burn fat faster. No matter how much or how little weight you are trying to lose, these foods can help you accomplish your goal.

Raw vegetables are not only low-calorie and low-fat, but they also provide you with nutrients and fiber needed to keep your body healthy. An added bonus is that the work it takes to chew them burns calories while you eat.

Oatmeal is a complex carbohydrate that does not spike your blood sugar, is satiating so it prevents hunger and has a high fiber content that prevents the body from storing fat.

As long as it isn't chock-full of added sugars, the calcium and protein in a daily serving of yogurt can help you burn fat for faster weight loss results.

High in protein, nuts make a great snack because they prevent hunger and have omega-3 fatty acids that help burn fat. Just make sure they are raw and natural, not roasted and salted.

Spicy foods such as hot peppers and hot mustard can increase your fat-burning metabolism by raising your body temperature. Eat them up to 3 hours before a workout to burn up to 20 percent more calories.

A well-known diet staple, water helps suppress the appetite, keeps the body and its organs functioning optimally, and reduces water retention and bloating.

Homemade Recipes for Making Body Lotions Using Olive Oil

Nutritionists have touted the benefits of adding olive oil to a healthy diet, but using it as a moisturizer for the body also provides natural, moisturizing and anti-aging benefits to the skin. According to natural-skin-care-info.com, olive oil has long been used by Mediterranean women to bring antioxidant protection to the skin. Rich in vitamin E and omega-3, the antioxidants in olive oil combat damaging free radicals and promote smooth, elastic, radiant skin.

Most homemade recipes for lotions and skin products, notes Best-Home-Remedies.com, don't have preservatives. That means they should be kept refrigerated to preserve them longer and will only last about a week. Natural recipes can easily grow bacteria so always wash hands and use an applicator to remove from the container. Does this Spark an idea?

Any homemade lotions should be thoroughly cooled before applying to the skin.

The A Sonoma Garden website suggests a hand lotion recipe that works great as a body lotion. Start with 1/4 cup of emulsifying wax, heated in microwave until melted, and add 1 1/4 cup of hot water, 1/4 cup of olive oil and 24 to 36 drops of your favorite essential oil, and mix. Store in a glass canning jar. Let the lotion cool overnight before using.

Preserve the homemade lotion in a glass jar with a lid for daily use.

An alternative recipe from natural-skin-care-info.com combines 2 tbsp. of grated beeswax and 2 tsp. of water melted over low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of cocoa butter, 1 tbsp. of olive oil, 2 tbsp. of coconut oil and 3 tbsp. of sesame oil. Pour the warm mixture into a glass jar to cool before applying.

Lotions made with olive oil may separate or turn to a solid in the refrigerator, but may be mixed for use again at room temperature.

An orange-scented lotion recipe from Best-Home-Remedies.com mixes 1/2 oz. of melted cocoa butter, with 1 oz. of warmed olive oil and 1 oz. of orange juice. Blend the three ingredients and add two drops of your favorite essential oil. Cool the mixture in a glass jar and apply as needed.

Kamis, 18 Juli 2013

How to Burn Fat in the Midsection

It's a common misconception that belly fat is the hardest to get rid of, especially in menopausal women. Many women believe that in order to burn belly fat, they have to lose weight with diet pills. But it's very easy to get rid of belly fat whether you've gained weight due to pregnancy, menopause or overindulgence. The key is to incorporate a total body workout along with a fat-burning diet. Your diet plays a key role in whether you burn belly fat. If you eat the wrong foods, you will continue to have stubborn belly fat.

Instructions

Go grocery shopping once a week (on a weekend when you're not hungry, because you're more likely to make poor food choices if you shop during hunger). Have a grocery list when you go. Your list should contain the following items: honey flavored, fat-free Greek yogurt; fresh organic baby spinach; lettuce; tomatoes; onions; low-fat dressing (your favorite kind); canned salmon; Egg Beaters; Pam cooking spray; 1percent milk; low-fat cheese; fresh-cut pineapple; raspberries; blueberries; apples; oranges; strawberries; legumes; low-fat, sodium-free soups; a case of spring water; and lean ground turkey.

Curb your carbohydrate intake and drink water. If you notice, carbs--the bad carbs--are not on your shopping list. The quickest way to burn fat in the midsection is to remove simple carbs like bread and sugar from the diet and replace those with complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates keep you full longer. By being full longer, you won't crash and burn and start the binge cycle as you would if you were eating simple carbs. You'll also need to increase your water intake. Drink 8 to 12 glasses of water a day. Drink 2 glasses of water before you sit down and eat each meal. This will fill you up and make you less prone to overeat.

Use the StairMaster or treadmill. Any sustained aerobic exercise (20 minutes or longer) will burn fat. So it doesn't matter if you use a treadmill or a StairMaster; you're still going to burn fat. In order to burn fat in the midsection, you have to burn fat overall. It's anatomically impossible to lose weight only in one area of the body. However, once you begin losing weight all around through low-fat diet and aerobics, you can then specifically target the areas you want to tone. In this instance, we'll focus on the midsection.

Do core exercises. The core of the body is considered to be the mid section, back, chest and pelvis. Focusing on the entire core section will help to tone and define your midsection as you keep your body strong and in alignment. Consult a personal trainer or join an core class at your local gym.

How to Cleanse Uric Acid From Your Blood

High levels of uric acid in the blood can lead to a variety of conditions. One of the most common is gout, in which uric acid crystals accumulate in the connective tissue of the joints. Gout is an extremely painful condition in which movement of the joints is severely restricted and the affected area is very painful to the touch. One of the ways to avoid or eliminate uric acid crystals is to lower the amount of uric acid in the blood, which will then help dissolve existing uric acid crystals as well as prevent the formation of new ones.

Instructions

Eat vegetarian. Uric acid is often made as a byproduct of the metabolism of certain amino acids that are abundant in animal proteins. Adopting a vegetarian diet will help lower the amount of uric acid in the blood.

Avoid caffeine. Not only does caffeine stimulate the production of uric acid, but it also dehydrates the body, leading to additional accumulation of uric acid in the blood. People looking to cleanse uric acid from their blood should minimize their intake of coffee, tea and caffeinated sodas.

Eliminate alcohol. The metabolism of alcohol creates uric acid as a byproduct. It also dehydrates the body.

Drink large quantities of water. Uric acid is processed and eliminated by the kidneys. Drinking lots of water will keep the kidneys active, which will then cleanse uric acid out of the blood.

Take medication. If the above steps are unable to lower your uric acid, there are some medications, such as allopurinol, which will reduce the production of uric acid.

List of Discounts for Senior Citizens

While many people aspire to be able to live comfortably when they grow older, the restrictions of fixed income or other economic issues often make it an absolute necessity to stretch dollars as far as possible. Fortunately, many businesses recognize that need and offer senior citizen discounts---sometimes, even to folks as young as age 50.

Perhaps the most valuable way of finding senior citizen discounts is membership in the American Association of Retired Persons, which individuals can join for less than $20 a year. AARP compiles a huge list of discounts for those ages 50 and older.

Even without AARP, many senior citizen discounts can be found simply by asking. Many restaurants---and fast food restaurants in particular---offer savings for senior citizens. Often, the discount is in the cash price, with 10 percent off being a typical offering; other locations may offer portions smaller in size---and lower in price---to older people with smaller appetites.

Many motels and hotels---not only popular chains, but also independently owned establishments---offer cut-rate prices for older visitors. Discounts also can be found on flights and car rentals, and in some cases, savings can be combined; for instance, hotels from time to time offer double and triple frequent flyer miles to senior citizens. Those who are 62 and older who enjoy visiting America's national parks, monuments, forests and recreational locations can purchase lifetimes passes for just $10, which give them, as well as anybody in their vehicle, free admission to such facilities.

Retailers also are doing their part to entice senior citizens to visit them. Some stores offer daily discounts, while others offer everyday lower prices to senior citizens. Also available are lower prices on eyewear and prescription drugs, particularly online---although seniors should always use caution in using such sites for their drugs, and check the distributor's reputability first.

There are a plethora of other savings available for senior citizens, in a wide range of areas. Movie theaters, for instance, may discount tickets; oil changes may be offered at slashed rates; and banks may offer reduced or no fees for some of their services. Additionally, grocery stores often have a senior citizen day where bargains abound. Discounts may also be found at fitness clubs, garages, museums and many other places. The mantra, which cannot be emphasized enough, is: If you want a senior citizens' discount, ask!

Rabu, 17 Juli 2013

How to Lose Weight With ****

**** is the trade name for tetrahydrolipstatin, an anti-obesity drug. It is a potent pancreatic lipase inhibitor that is isolated from the Streptomyces toxytricini bacterium. The absence of lipase prevents triglycerides from being digested, and they are eliminated undigested through the feces. The following steps will show how to lose weight with ****.

Instructions

Take the recommended dosage of **** to lose weight. It should be limited to 120mg three times per day because amounts greater than this do not provide any additional benefit. You also may need to take supplements of vitamins D, E, K and beta-carotene because **** inhibits the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water within one hour of a main meal. This meal should get less than 30 percent of its calories from fat. You should divide your daily food intake into three equal portions without any snacking when taking ****.

Skip your dose of **** if you miss a meal or if it is fat free. You should not take a double dose.

Study the contraindications for ****. You should not take it if you suffer from a malabsorption syndrome or have certain gallbladder disorders. **** may require special monitoring or dosages if you have anorexia, bulimia, diabetes or are taking other weight-loss medication.

Learn the side effects of using **** to lose weight. These most commonly include oily spotting and gas with discharge. There also may be an allergic reaction with shortness of breath and swelling of the face, lips, throat and tongue in rare cases.

Selasa, 16 Juli 2013

How to Lose Weight Using the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid

The Mediterranean diet consists of certain foods and exercise that will increase your quality of your life, make you healthy and help you lose weight. The diet includes foods from the Mediterranean region. The following will show you how to lose weight with the Mediterranean diet pyramid.

Instructions

Follow the Mediterranean food pyramid including 20 percent protein, 30 percent fats and 50 percent carbohydrates.

Eat 5 times a day with 3 main meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and 2 snacks (one halfway through the morning and the other in the evening).

Eat fruit or nuts when you are craving something sweet instead of consuming sugary foods. Eat fruit at least a half hour before eating a meal.

Drink 1 glass of grape juice or red wine every day. Men can drink up to 2 glasses. Drink at least 6 glasses of water every day.

Eat some of the following every day: cereals and grains; beans, peas and nuts (such as almonds, walnuts and others); aromatic grass (such as basil, thymus, oregano, garlic); fresh fruits (such as grapes, olives and avocados); vegetables (such as spinach, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, capers and garlic); olive oil; milk and yogurt.

Eat some of the following 1 to 3 times a week: eggs (at least 4 a week), meat (mostly white) and fish.

Exercise or have some physical activity 30 minutes a day as part of the Mediterranean diet pyramid.

Senin, 15 Juli 2013

How to Rev Up a Sluggish Thyroid

So Oprah has come out and explained that she has "let herself go" and has now reached 200 pounds. She states that she has a sluggish thyroid. I for one feel for Oprah, a medical condition such as a sluggish thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, is a condition that makes losing weight extremely difficult.

Instructions

So what is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a gland that is said to regulate the metabolism. If the thyroid slows down it cuts the hormone production it needs to regulate the body.

Many women do not even know they have this condition and often just chalk it up to getting older. The symptoms are vast and can relate to a million other conditions.
The main symptoms of hypothyroidism are: fatigue, weakness, weight loss difficulties, increased weight gain, pale skin, dry hair, hair loss, muscle cramps, depression, constipation, abnormal menstrual cycles and a decrease in sexual desire.

Looking at that list for a woman could make them believe that these symptoms are part of the normal transition into menopause if they are of a certain age. It is important if you think you have a thyroid issue to have it checked out with your doctor. A simple blood test can determine this.

If you are looking for natural ways to rev up your thyroid and help it do its job, look no further. Here are a few ways you can help your sluggish thyroid out.

Drink green tea - green teas contain EGCG which is a natural plant substance that has been shown to help speed the metabolism.

Exercise - Increase your metabolism by increasing your activity levels. Exercise is a proven way to boost you metabolism while building a better body overall.

Drink lots of water - Simply drinking a ton of water will not boost your metabolism, but not drinking enough water will slow your metabolism down considerably.

Consume more protein - Lean meats, eggs, tuna etc, take more energy to digest, therefore making the body work harder and giving the metabolism a good boost.

Eating every 3 hours - Studies have shown that the more you eat, the more your metabolism stays at its peak and helps you lose weight. Eating low calorie mini-meals between your regular healthy meals can help you achieve this.

If you are diagnosed with this condition, do not fret; it can be treated whether you go the natural way or with help from a doctor. The key is getting yourself checked out at the first sign something could be wrong.

Pages

Rabu, 31 Juli 2013

Features

Pros

Colon Cleansing

Abdominal Pain and Cramping

Nausea and Bloating

Instructions

Low-Fat

Low-Carbohydrate

Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates

About Cholesterol and Sodium

American Heart Association Diet

Quality Whole Grains

Watch for Healthy Fats

Look Out for Added Sodium

Selasa, 30 Juli 2013

Helpful Foods

Supplements

Foods to Avoid

Drinks

Vegetables

Fruits

Grains

Meats

Beans, Nuts and Seeds

Sauces and Condiments

Instructions

Morning Start

Hi-Lo

Low-Carb Special K

What To Eat

No Supplements

Breaking The Diet

Resume Normal Eating

Ending The Diet

Senin, 29 Juli 2013

Enclosure

Hiding and Climbing Opportunities

Heating

Lighting

Food, Water and Supplementation

Elevated Blood Pressure and Heart Rate

Addiction

Side Effects

Minggu, 28 Juli 2013

Instructions

Symptoms and Causes

How Gas-X Works

Surface Tension

Side Effects

Precautions

Sabtu, 27 Juli 2013

Instructions

The Caloric Effect

The Harris-Benedict Formula

Function

Features

Significance

Considerations

Effects

Jumat, 26 Juli 2013

Periodontitis In Teenagers

Tooth Injury

Avoiding Loose Teeth

Getting Additional Help

Legumes, Nuts, and Seeds

Fruits

Vegetables

Proteins

Kamis, 25 Juli 2013

Instructions

Rabu, 24 Juli 2013

Instructions

B12 Complex

Protective Fatty Acids

Fermented Soybean Paste

Health Benefits of Miso Soup

Bottom Line

Instructions