Special K Diet Tips And Tricks: September 2013

Senin, 30 September 2013

How to Lose Weight By Eating Cereal

People are constantly searching for ways to lose weight. A very easy way to do so is by eating cereal. Here is how you can lose weight by eating cereal. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Choose a cereal that is high in fiber and low in sugar.

Measure out the amount of cereal you eat. Eat no more than a cup of cereal per sitting.

Use either skim or soy milk with your cereal. Once again, it's wise to measure out the amount of milk you put into your cereal. If you eat a cup of cereal, for example, use about half a cup of skim or soy milk.

To make a meal out of your bowl of cereal, add pieces of fruit to your cereal. You could add anything from berries to bananas.

Supplement a bowl of cereal for a meal occasionally. For example, you could have a bowl of cereal for lunch as well as breakfast.

If you have a craving late in the day for a snack, eat cereal instead of a sandwich or a snack that is high in sugar. If you are having cereal simply as a snack, don't add fruit to the bowl.

While on the "cereal diet" it's still important to exercise. Remember that a simple change in diet is not nearly enough to implement any real healthy change for you.

1800 Calorie Diabetic Diet Plan

Diabetes patients must be wary of their caloric intake, as well as their overall sugar and carbohydrate intake, to ensure that their insulin levels are properly balanced. Maintaining a diet of no more than 1800 calories a day helps to ensure that diabetics can maintain better control of their blood sugar levels and assist in losing weight.

Diabetes is a genetic disorder in which the affected person's body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels because of the body's inability to secrete insulin. Typically, blood sugar levels increase after consuming food, and a normal functioning body regulates this increase in blood sugar by producing insulin. This is not the case for diabetics. In turn, a heavily regulated diet as well insulin shots are necessary to reduce the symptoms of diabetes, which may include passing out and insulin shock, which can lead to death.

Simply, the 1800 calorie diet restricts diabetic patients to no more than 1800 calories of food a day. Within this diet is a further regulation of sugars and carbohydrates, which tend to be high in glucose or blood sugar. The main purpose of an 1800 calorie diet is to maintain the person's ideal body weight. People with diabetes have difficulty regulating blood sugar, so it tends to lead to increases in body weight, which can lead to additional long-term complications related to obesity.

In general, the ideal weight for women begins at 100 pounds for a 5-foot woman, adding 5 pounds for every inch over 5 feet, and a 10 percent increase for women with wider frames. For men the ideal weight begins at 106 pounds for a 5-foot man, adding 6 pounds for every inch over 5 feet. The 1800 calorie diet ensures this ideal body weight.

When you follow the 1800 Calorie diet, your carbohydrates should make up no more than 50 percent of your daily calories. Diabetics should avoid products with refined sugar--typically any processed sweets or candy. You can count carbohydrates very simply. One serving of starch, fruit or milk, contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates, and three servings of vegetables is about 15 grams. For example, a cup of 1 percent milk is a serving. Each gram of carbohydrates is about 4 calories, making one serving of carbohydrates about 60 calories. On the 1800 calorie diet, you should consume no more than 15 servings, or 225 grams, of carbohydrates.

Minggu, 29 September 2013

Healthy Meals for Late at Night

Late-night munchies can wreak havoc on your diet. During the nighttime your body does not expend much energy and eating unnecessary calories can therefore trigger weight gain. Many diets suggest you stop eating after 8 p.m. to avoid this excess weight. Boredom, fatigue and everyday stress make late-night eating hard to resist and often unhealthy foods, such as hamburgers, french fries, chocolate, cookies, potato chips, and ice cream are the preferred fare. Replace these unhealthy foods with healthier options, to avoid sabotaging your diet.

If you want to eat late at night, make yourself a salad. Salads are easy on your digestive system and don't contain a lot of calories, so your diet stays intact. Select some mixed greens and add some chicken for protein. Protein helps fill you up, so you are less likely to overeat. Avoid heavy dressings which have many calories; stick to light and low-fat dressings. Instead of dousing your veggies with the dressing, have it on the side, so you can better control the amount you consume.

A bowl of cereal is an easy go-to meal during the late-night hours. Avoid cereals that are high in sugar, because these spike your blood sugar and leave you feeling hungry again fast. Consume a cereal that is high in fiber and protein and low in sugar and fat. Look for whole-grain varieties. Whole-grains are complex carbohydrates and digest slowly, so you feel full for a long period. Eat your cereal with low-fat or nonfat milk to keep the total calories low.

Soup is an ideal late-night meal because it is easy to make and has a warming, soothing and filling affect. Many varieties are low in calories per serving and have added fiber. Eat water-based soups, such as vegetable and chicken soup, instead of creamy soups that are higher in calories. Check the sodium content per serving, if you opt for a tomato-based soup, because these tend to be rather high. If you crave a thick, creamy soup, drink two glasses of water beforehand, so you consume less soup.

A healthy sandwich late at night can be a satisfying late-night snack. Instead of using white bread, use whole-wheat bread because complex carbohydrates fill you up, digest slowly and don't spike your blood sugar. Place a slice of low-fat cheese on the sandwich or opt for a lean meat, such as turkey. To make your sandwich even more filling, add vegetables, such as lettuce and cucumber to it. If you crave something sweet after eating your sandwich, eat fruit, such as strawberries or an apple. The natural sugars will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Vinegar & Epsom Salt Detox

Your body is a chemical wonder, filled with hormone interactions, energy creation and consumption as well as purification. When we consume foods that are difficult to process, our livers work overtime and might need the help of a detox on occasion. Vinegar and Epsom salts have been used for centuries as healing methods and are great sources of detoxification.

Many people have used Epsom salts for years to relieve aches and pains--primarily caused by uric acid build up in muscles. By adding one to two cups of Epsom salts to a hot bath and soaking for 20 minutes, tired feet and back aches find great relief. You don't need to be filled with aches and pains to benefit from an Epsom salt detox bath.

If you are soaking in an Epsom salt bath for more than 20 minutes, you might become very tired--even exhausted--as your body is working to release metals, minerals and toxins not needed. The bath might become quite murky as result of what is being released. This should subside as you do the detox more frequently. Adding ginger, baking soda or sesame oil can help reduce pain, counter radiation effects and improve skin health.

If your body is too acidic, you might develop skin conditions such as acne, eczema or rashes. You can use vinegar to soothe these conditions and restore your skin's pH balance to a more alkaline state. Apple cider vinegar is the most popular vinegar used, but you can experience excellent results from white vinegar as well. Add one cup to two quarts of vinegar to a hot bath. This will also alleviate pain from arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis and gout by also helping eliminate excess uric acid.

Consuming vinegar is another way to aid in a total body detox. Many people will consume a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar before a meal to help the digestive process. Others will make a tea with honey and herbs. You can also use apple cider vinegar in cooking with salad dressings, marinades and pickling spices. The vinegar helps maintain proper pH levels in the stomach and digestive tract.

When you detox, your body first must release toxins that are stored in your fat cells. As it does this, the toxins within your body will make you feel worse than you did before starting a detox--especially if you have never done one before or don't do them regularly. You might feel as if you are coming down with the flu. This is common, but know that continuing with the baths will help your body eliminate the toxins quicker.

Although you will benefit from using detox baths and adding vinegar as a supplement, you will greatly improve your results if you limit your diet during the detox period to organic foods, primarily fresh fruits and vegetables along with at least two liters of water each day. Try not to consume caffeine, nicotine or alcohol when detoxing to help your body really flush toxins out. By doing this, you will increase your energy and improve your metabolism.

Sabtu, 28 September 2013

How to Lose Weight Without Diet Pills

Being overweight increases your chances for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and many other illnesses. Losing weight can effectively reduce those chances; however, you should avoid the temptations of the vast array of diet pills available. Not only can diet pills add to your risk for heart disease and high blood pressure, they are expensive, cause dependency and can destroy your natural metabolic balance for good. Losing weight is not simple, but you can do it without pills.

Instructions

Decrease your daily caloric intake by 500 calories to lose between 1 and 2 lbs. each week. While counting calories may be slower than powerful diet pills, it is a safe, natural and sure way of shedding pounds. As a general rule, if you are inactive you should take in about 2,000 calories a day. If you are more active, you can eat up to 2,500 calories and still lose weight.

Burn more calories than you eat by adding 30 minutes of brisk exercise to your daily routine. Your choice of exercise will depend on your body type, weight and personal preference. For people carrying 100 extra pounds or more, a simple stroll through the park or cleaning the house is probably enough to burn the extra calories. If you are only trying to lose that last five pounds, you may be better off with weight training, aerobics or jogging.

Eat a wide variety of foods that include all of the vitamins and minerals your body needs to maintain balance and metabolism. Fresh fruits and vegetables are your best source of calories, while trans fats, saturated fats as well as refined flours and sugars should be avoided.

Expect slow results if you want permanent results. While some diet pills offer fast and dramatic weight loss, it is not healthy for your body to lose more than 10 pounds per month. The faster the weight comes off, the less likely you will be able to keep it off. Persistence, lifestyle change and a healthy diet are the best ways to lose weight naturally and safely without dangerous diet pills.

How to Lose Weight With Tea

Tea, which originated from China, is about the healthiest thing you can drink. It has now been proven to not only be good for your overall health, but also to help your body lose weight. The following steps will show you how to lose weight with tea.

Instructions

Choose black tea instead of coffee in the morning and drink cold tea with your meals instead of soda. Black tea is full of antitoxins called flavonoids and can actually detoxify your body, making it run smoother and increase metabolism. Coffee actually adds toxins to the body and tends to drag you down as it depletes the body of some vitamins.

Drink at least one cup of hot green tea or a glass of cold green tea per day. Green tea has been proven to burn fat and increase metabolism, which helps you lose weight.You can purchase green tea in a variety of flavors like raspberry, lemon, blueberry, or mint.

Drink Oolong tea, which is made from special tea leaves grown in China and processed directly after being picked. Many swear by the slimming affect of this tea and it is typically marketed as a tea that will help you lose weight naturally.

Drink white tea hot or cold, which also comes in an array of flavors as green tea does. The weight loss and antioxidant benefits of white tea are very similar to that of green tea. A study on white tea shows that it may lower blood pressure and cholesterol both of which improves the overall health of your heart and may allow you to do more cardio exercises.

Jumat, 27 September 2013

Water Pills to Lose Weight

There are many methods of losing weight. Specific diets and exercise routines are constantly being advertised to us. Pills, powders and meal replacements are also popular items to use in our search for a smaller waistline. Among these supplements are a specific type called diuretics, more commonly known as water pills.

A water pill is a type of drug that causes your body to eliminate more water than you do normally. These pills contain things like caffeine, if you're looking at the over-the-counter versions, to furosemide, if you are taking it as a prescribed medication from a doctor.

Water pills differ. Some work on a certain part of the kidney, some use certain chemicals, others do their work while sparing other nutrients that may be flushed out with your urine.

The water pill is used any time water needs to be eliminated. Women might use the water pill to alleviate the water retention associated with PMS, chemotherapy patients may be prescribed a diuretic to ensure the chemicals in their therapy are flushed out of their bodies. Other patients, like those with congestive heart failure, use the water pill to alleviate the high blood pressure related to water retention. Dieters also use the water pill to flush out water from their bodies.

It is possible to lose weight with a water pill, as it encourages the elimination of water, and therefore, some weight. A dieter can shed several pounds, depending on the amount of water stored in the body, and how much of the diuretic he or she takes.

However, it is important to note that the water pill only encourages the elimination of water, not fat. So although you may lose a few pounds of water, the amount of fat in your body remains the same. The effects of water weight loss are not as lasting as the effects of fat loss.

Water comprises most of our bodies and is needed for various things like effective digestion, body temperature maintenance and elimination of waste. Therefore it is necessary to have a certain amount of water in our bodies at all times.

Overuse of the water pill results in a variety of conditions from headaches to heart problems. Those who continuously use water pills may need to increase their potassium intake or switch to a potassium-sparing diuretic, as potassium is essential to the proper functioning of the heart. It is also one of the nutrients easily flushed away with the use of the water pill. In fact, anyone who plans to use water pills on a regular basis should check with their physician, as upsetting the balance of potassium in any direction can become fatal.

Some water pills will make you sensitive to sunlight or lower your tolerance to alcohol. Others might give you allergies or interact with the medicines you are already taking. It would be wise to consult your doctor before any prolonged use of diuretics.

Kamis, 26 September 2013

How Do Women Lose Weight?

A lot of women struggle with reaching their ideal weight. Those last ten pounds are usually their biggest problem.

Some spend years with yo-yo dieting that doesn't work. Others have issues such asthyroid problems that prevent them from losing the weight that they want.

Some women are never satisfied with how they look and will go to the extreme to be thin. As long as these issues exist, the market will always be flooded with weight loss products and services.

Women lose weight by exercising two or three times per day for a minimum of thirty minutes. Create exercise routines that include walking, running, biking, swimming or working out at the gym. Walk briskly instead of slowly because you will burn more calories. Switch to jogging as you progress. Indulge in as much rigorous exercise as you can because sweating helps you to lose fluids that are usually retained in the body tissues.

The treadmill is one of the most popular machines in the gym. There are other machines and equipments that help with the weight loss process and also with toning the muscles after weight loss. Keep increasing the speed on the treadmill to accommodate your level of endurance and fitness. Hire a personal trainer to help you with those trouble spots.

Incorporate a specific program into your workout that includes doing 15 minutes of resistance training as well as repetitions. Get a walking partner, but make sure this person can keep up to your pace of walking. This helps to keep you focused and accountable.

Women lose weight through nutritional change and eating healthy. Eating foods that are low in calories and fat helps a woman to lose weight. Eating foods that are filled with fiber is good for cleaning the colon and keeping the body trim. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, peas, bran cereal, brown rice, and whole grain bread.

Consult your doctor before starting any kind of diet. A raw food diet becomes an extreme option for some women who desperately want to change their lifestyle. Raw foods help to keep the colon clean and offer more fiber in the diet.

Eating foods that are high in energy helps women burn more calories and keep the metabolism high. Some high energy foods to consider are broccoli, asparagus, almonds, peanuts, yogurt, eggs, and beans. Adding at least six glasses of water to your daily intake is also important. Eating smaller portions of food instead of overeating at one sitting is particularly helpful, as most weight loss programs recommend.

Some women choose plastic surgery methods to lose weight. One such method of cosmetic surgery is liposuction. This can get very costly and in some cases life threatening.

Usually this type of surgery is for women who are obese or who want to fix specific problem areas. There are two different methods; one is ultrasound and the other tumescent liposuction. The latter involves the use of saline solution on the excess fat. It targets the inner and outer layers of fat.

Ultrasound liposuction includes putting a metal probe into the specific area; the probe sends off ultrasound energy to melt the fat. After the surgery is completed, the skin may collapse, and further cosmetic surgery may be needed to tone the skin. Liposuction should not replace proper eating and exercise.

Some women choose to binge eat and vomit up the food they've eaten. This can result in bulimia, which is a life-threatening way of losing weight. Some choose to starve in order to lose weight. The anorexic person develops strong mental pictures of how the body should look and starves to reach that desired goal.

No matter how much weight the anorexic or bulimic woman loses, she always thinks that she is fat. If there is no intervention, the woman may die from this habit of eating and vomiting.

There is usually an underlying problem for women who chose to practice losing weight like this. A doctor and counseling should be the alternative.

Some women lose weight through programs such as Jenny Craig and others. These programs may only be a temporary solution to the woman's weight loss problems because when left to manage on her own, she may resort to her old habits and pack on the pounds again.

Women involved with these programs are assigned to a weight loss consultant who teaches them a new way to live and to eat small portions of nutritional foods in frequent servings. Exercise is also added to their program.

The weight loss consultant helps the woman to control food by creating new eating habits. Learning how to avoid skipping meals is essential.The woman is taught how to create a new lifestyle that is healthy and learns how to manage her weight successfully. She may learn why she uses food for comfort, which is often the reason she gains weight.

Some women will still have difficulty losing weight due to their genetic make up. These women don't lose weight as fast as others do due to possible hormone imbalance. Family history helps to identify genetic and cultural factors that cause a person to have difficulty losing weight. For example, in some cultures, food is in excess at every family dinner, and it is hard to maintain a disciplined weight loss program.

Selasa, 24 September 2013

Intestinal Cleansing From GMO Foods

On May 19 of 2009, an official warning was issued by the American Academy of of environmental medicine (AAEM) in regard to GMO (genetically modified organism) foods. The warning stated that all GMO foods should be avoided whenever possible, as multiple animal studies have shown them to have a direct association with severe health risks, including infertility, immune problems, major organ changes, accelerated aging and insulin regulation problems.

The first step for any intestinal cleanse requires cutting out the foods that are causing the problem. Foods affected by GMO include transgenic plant products such as corn, soybean, canola, and cotton seed oil. Cut these foods from your diet immediately unless the packaging clearly states, "Non-GMO."

For your body to function properly, all the toxins built up from GMO foods must be cleared from your system. Herbal detoxification is a powerful way to remove these undesirable toxins. There are a variety of herbs that are very effective for GMO detox.

Psyllium seed effectively facilitates the elimination of accumulated toxins while simultaneously promoting healthy bowel movements. Soaking the psyllium seeds in water will cause them to swell and take on a jellylike nature. Once ingested, the seeds go to work like a sponge, absorbing unwanted toxins.

Cascara sagrada will quickly rid your body of toxins. Acting as a laxative, it also strengthens the colon. This herb is perfectly safe, even with prolonged use. Cascara sagrada can be used along with psyllium seed.

Burdock seeds act as a type of diuretic and are powerful enough to rid your body of every type of toxin, including heavy metals. For a total cleanse from GMO and pesticides, this herb will do the job.

Dandelion root will help finish the detoxification process. Best known for its ability to cleanse the liver, dandelion root will also remove the gallbladder waste and cleanse the kidneys.

Another option for ridding your intestine and colon of unwanted buildup and toxins is a cleansing fast. When beginning a fast, plan to eat lightly before you begin.

There are several different types of fasts that work well. Those that include grapefruits, lemon, organic apple juice and herbal teas work best. The grapefruit, lemon and apple juice work to speed along the cleansing process.

Break your fast slowly, over a period of several hours. First, add carrots or oranges to your liquid diet. Wait a few hours and then add some raw vegetables and simple grains. Going into or coming off of a fast too quickly can be overly taxing on your system.

Once you have rid your body of the dangers associated with GMO foods, it is wise to read labels carefully and stay away from them completely. The risk factor of these foods is too high and there are plenty of other healthy and safe foods to choose from.

Minggu, 22 September 2013

Fastest Way for Men to Lose Weight

Men typically want to lose weight to improve their health and overall well-being, though physical appearance can play a role as well. Men and women have different nutritional needs that must be understood by men trying to lose weight fast.

Men need to jump-start their metabolism by eating a healthy breakfast. This can be a bowl of high fiber cereal accompanied with low-fat milk and some fruit, or eggs with a slice or two of whole-grain bread. The high fiber cereal is a complex carbohydrate and will give you an energy boost, while the protein in the eggs aids in building and repairing muscles before and after working out. This ultimately results in a higher metabolism.

Eating two or three snacks during the day lessens cravings for high-sugar, weight-adding enemies and keeps your metabolism running strong, burning fat and calories all day. Choose cheese for calcium, fruit for fiber, a handful of nuts such as almonds or walnuts for essential fats, or low-fat yogurt for dairy.

When it comes to lunch or dinner, you may believe eating a salad is better than enjoying a burger or piece of steak because of the calories. Men actually need more calories than women, so that steak can be more beneficial. In addition, it contains zinc, a mineral responsible for increasing testosterone levels. And for men, those higher levels of testosterone fuel metabolism and make it easier to build muscle, another means of burning more fat and calories. Choose toppings for your burger wisely: Rather than mayonnaise and ketchup, try lettuce, tomato and salsa. As a side, go for the salad or a veggie rather than the typical burger partner--french fries.

Water is a great alternative to carbonated beverages or pre-packaged juices packed with high fructose corn syrup. It has zero calories and helps cleanse the kidneys of toxins, making it easier for the body to metabolize fat.

Exercise is vital for anyone trying to lose weight. Cardiovascular exercises, such as swimming, walking or using the elliptical bike, are great for burning fat and calories and should be done four to five times a week for 30 to 60 minutes. Strength training doesn't help you lose weight directly; but it does build muscle, which increases metabolism. Strength training should be done every other day, giving the muscles time to rest in between. On average, three days a week of strength training is sufficient for most men.

How to Manage Food Allergens

About one in 25 people has a food allergy. Most people develop food allergies early in life, and many even outgrow them over time. Food allergies happen when your immune system reacts to a substance in a food that your body views as harmful. This sets off a sequence of events within your body. Allergy symptoms can occur within minutes and can be mild to severe, or even life-threatening in the case of anaphylaxis. More than 160 food allergies are known, but only eight foods cause 90 percent of all food-allergic reactions. These are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soybeans and wheat.

Instructions

Know the symptoms. Food allergy symptoms usually appear within a few minutes. However, some may take up to two hours after a person has been exposed to the allergen to show. Allergic reactions can include: hives, flushed skin or rash, tingling or itchy feeling in the mouth, facial swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, coughing or wheezing, dizziness, swelling of the throat or vocal cords, difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness.

Make an appointment with a registered dietitian (RD). An RD is a nutrition expert that can help you recognize which foods are safe to eat and how best to avoid foods that may cause a reaction. An RD can also help you fill the nutritional gaps left from removing allergens from your diet.

Learn about ingredients in food. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated that food companies specify on product labels if any of the eight major allergens is found in the food. If you have an allergy other than one of the eight, an RD can show you how to read ingredient labels further. This is important since many allergens go by more than one name.

Always read the ingredients listed on labels because manufacturers can change product ingredients without notice. Be aware of ingredients in cosmetic products as well, since these may contain common allergens such as milk, egg, wheat and nuts.

Ask questions. When eating out at a restaurant, notify the server of your allergy and ask that special care be taken when your food is prepared. This is important since many foods are prepared on the same surfaces or using the same utensils, which can lead to cross-contamination. Cross-contamination can lead to allergens ending up in dishes that should not have them.

Inform others of your food allergy, so they can know what to do if you have a reaction. Raising awareness can also help lower your risk of exposure to allergens. If others know you have an allergy, they are likely to consider this when bringing dishes to functions.

Have a plan. Mild allergy symptoms may become more severe if not treated promptly. Carry your epinephrine auto-injector with you at all times. An epinephrine auto-injector is a medication injected during emergencies to treat very serious allergic reactions. Examples of epinephrine auto-injectors are Epipen and Twinject. Serious complications may be avoided if epinephrine is administered during the early symptoms of anaphylaxis. If symptoms progress, call 911, or go to an emergency room immediately.

Sabtu, 21 September 2013

How Many Carbs Per Day on a Low Carb Diet?

Since the late 1990s there has been widespread enthusiasm for achieving weight loss through a low-carb diet. Seen by some as a "diet craze," the idea of losing weight by eating more protein and limiting carbohydrate-heavy foods, such as bread and pasta, was met with undeniable support despite a lot of skepticism. There are many factors to consider before starting a lo-carb diet.

The low carbohydrate diet rose to popularity with Dr. Robert Atkins' book "Dr. Atkins New Diet Revolution." The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) defines the low carbohydrate diet as one that "restricts caloric intake by reducing the consumption of carbohydrates to 20 to 60 g per day (typically less than 20 percent of the daily caloric intake). The consumption of protein and fat is increased to compensate for part of the calories that formerly came from carbohydrates." The AAFP says that the typical low carbohydrate dieter will generally eat less bread, pastas, cereal, potatoes and rice while consuming higher amounts of vegetables, meat, fish, cheese and nuts.

An assessment of low carbohydrate dieting by the AAFP revealed that the typical American diet consisted of 2200 calories per day, with 50 percent of the calories coming from carbohydrates (275 grams), 35 percent of calories from fats (85 grams) and 15 percent of calories from proteins (82.5 grams). Under the Atkins plan, the total daily carbs go down to 13 grams during the induction phase based on a 1152-calorie diet and rise to 35 grams during the ongoing phase based on a 1627-calorie diet. Total carbohydrate grams rise to 95 per day once desired weight is reached for maintenance. Diets vary in the study, ranging from the lowest allowed by Atkins all the way up to the 87 grams per day allowed by the Carbohydrate Addict's Diet.

Physicians and other health professionals have been skeptical of the benefits of low-carb dieting and suspect that there are several health risks involved. While there is still no concrete medical evidence to support claims by those on either side of the argument a 2008 study by the Defeat Diabetes Foundation added another risk to the list. The study claims that the brain needs energy from carbohydrates to function properly, and that a lo-carb diet could hinder brain function. Energy for the brain comes in the form of glucose, which is often supplied through the breakdown of carbohydrates. Therefore, low-carb diets would give the brain less "fuel," and therefore diminish its function. This speculation was demonstrated as correct by the study of 19 women from 22 to 55 years of age.

This more recent finding is in addition to the long-suspected links between low carbohydrate dieting and heart disease.

As with any diet, it only works as long as you stick to it. The low carbohydrate diet is no different, and the long term results are not much different than with any other diet you stick with. According to the Mayo Clinic, low-carb dieters may lose more weight initially than their counterparts on a low-fat, low-calorie diet, but the weight loss may or may not continue long term, depending on commitment to the program.

The tricky part about deciding whether low-carb dieting is for you is that no one is certain of its long term consequences. According to the Mayo Clinic, weight loss is accomplished through this kind of dieting because of the loss of water weight, decreased appetite, an increased feeling of fullness and the overall reduced calories. Along with the weight loss comes the possible health benefits of lowering blood cholesterol due to the loss of weight. Should you choose to eat foods high in saturated fat, the health benefit potential falls considerably.

Jumat, 20 September 2013

L/D Diet for Liver Disease in Dogs

Liver disease is very complex, with many different causes and symptoms. Treatment includes dietary management, often by feeding Hill's prescription l/d food, along with supplements and medication. Dogs with liver disease may act depressed, be unwilling to eat and have gastrointestinal upset and a swollen belly, along with weight loss. Unusual-colored feces (gray) and urine (dark yellow or orange), abdominal pain and pale gums are other symptoms. In short, because the liver is not filtering toxins from the blood and allowing proper digestion of food, a dog with liver disease feels awful.

While there is often no cure for liver disease, palliative treatment and diet can increase both the length and quality of a dog's life. Initial diagnosis is usually made by diagnostic blood work--a CBC (complete blood count) analysis reveals malfunctioning liver enzymes and anemia. This is confirmed by the results of a chemistry screen and urinalysis. Your veterinarian will probably do an ultrasound to check for masses or abnormal liver growth, followed by a biopsy, which can usually pinpoint the cause of the disease. Once your veterinarian knows the cause, she can suggest a suitable diet.

Liver shunts, a common genetic cause of liver disease, requires a lower-protein, easily digestible diet. Copper storage disease--where dietary copper is stored in the liver rather than excreted--is common in several breeds, including Bedlington terriers, Dalmatians, and Doberman pinschers. Most recommended liver disease diets use low-copper ingredients such as beef and eggs to provide protein. Since many dogs with liver disease do not absorb and digest food efficiently, the diet should be relatively high in fiber to ease digestion and absorb excess ammonia and bile acids. Liver disease diets should also be low in vitamin C, sodium, potassium and anything else that can be harmful if not properly filtered by the liver.

Hills l/d Canine (l/d stands for liver disease) is formulated to be suitable for most forms of liver disease. It's available from many veterinarians in both canned and kibbled formulas, and either or both can be fed. Hills recommends a gradual switch from your dog's regular food, by mixing a little of the l/d diet into the food and increasing the amount until your dog is eating only the l/d. The Hill's prescription diet will be more effective if you don't mix it with any other food.

Management of liver disease requires regular monitoring by your veterinarian, and he can guide you on how much l/d food to feed, and how often. Some dogs require up to six small meals per day. Your vet can also prescribe supportive medications and suggest additional supplements. Don't give any supplements before consulting with your vet, as they may interfere with the medication or l/d diet.

How to Lose Weight Around Your Stomach

Losing weight from any area of the body is a process that requires dedication and time, and should be undertaken with nutrition and safety in mind. Contrary to popular belief, performing exercises that target areas of the body do not necessarily aid in removing fat from that area. Healthy and balanced steps must be taken to remove fat from any area, including a healthy diet, aerobic and cardiovascular exercise, abdominal exercises and weight training.

Instructions

Perform aerobic and cardiovascular exercises for at least 30 to 60 per workout. Moderate the intensity of cardiovascular activities such as biking, running and stair climbing.

Eat a diet low in calories, fat and sugar, with emphasis on fruits, vegetables and protein. Avoid excessive carbohydrates, but stay within a healthy caloric range.

Integrate weight training into your exercise routine after about two to four weeks. This will help increase your muscle mass, which can help raise your metabolism.

Tighten and tone your abdominal muscles by performing core intensive moves, including sit-ups, crunches or V sits. As the cardiovascular exercise burns away the fat, these muscles will become more and more visible.

Rabu, 18 September 2013

How to Lose Weight Drinking Coffee

Drinking coffee can actually help you to lose weight. Caffeine is a stimulant, which causes your body to release catecholamines. Fat cells are then targeted by the catecholamines. The body fat that is stored in the fact cells is then used for fuel. Hence, by drinking coffee you experience weight loss. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Do not add sugar or creamer to your coffee. Creamer contains sugar, and sugar contains insulin, which is a fat-storing hormone. The sugar will counteract the fat-burning potential of the caffeine. Avoid all carbohydrates when you are consuming your coffee because carbohydrates cause your insulin levels to rise. Catecholamines only burn more fat when there is no insulin present in your system.

Do drink your coffee an hour before your workout. The caffeine helps you focus and blunts muscle pain. These two effects of caffeine allow you to workout at a higher intensity with increased muscle strength and endurance.

Your pre-workout coffee should contain 200 to 400 mg of caffeine. You can also drink espresso for a more concentrated caffeine beverage.

If you would rather not drink coffee, but still want the weight loss benefits, try a caffeine supplement in pill form.

How to Update the GPS and DVD on a GMC Vehicle

When purchasing a GMC vehicle, buyers often have the option to purchase upgrades and additional features, such as a GPS navigation system. This navigation system helps drivers reach their destination by providing turn-by-turn directions and a points-of-interest database. New roads are built often, and some roads may close. General Motors offers yearly map updates to reflect these changes. Map updates can be purchased on DVD from the GM Navigation Disc Center, then applied to your system.

Instructions

Go to the GM Navigation Disc Center (see Resources) and click "Search" in the "Find Your GM Nav Disc" box. Use the drop-down menus to select "GMC," then select the model and year of your vehicle. The newest map update is displayed.

Click "Add Items to Cart," then "Checkout." Enter billing and shipping information to complete the order. The update is mailed to you on DVD.

Turn on the ignition of the GMC vehicle. When the radio wakes up, press the "Power" button. Place the screen in full-screen position by adjusting it with the "Navi screen up/down" button.

Insert the new map DVD. Press "Update" when the confirmation screen appears. Enter the authentication code and press "Enter." The system begins the update automatically. Eject the DVD when the update is complete.

Senin, 16 September 2013

30-Day Low-Carb Diet Solutions

There are many very popular low carb diets to choose from. Generally speaking, most people go on low carb diets to lose weight quickly. If you are planning to spend 30 days on a low carb diet you will have to make it as easy as possible for yourself, and fit it comfortably into your life style. According to the USDA food pyramid, a high carb diet is 50 to 70 percent of your food intake, and an extreme low is 25 percent or less carbs.

Plan and shop for your meals once a week. Gear up mentally, and be ready for the next 30 days to stick with the diet. Set a realistic goal of the weight you wish to lose. Get on the scale only once a week, so as not to get discouraged. Make sure to have low carb snacks available at all times to avoid temptation. Make sure you exercise for quicker weight loss. You can add one little sweet treat a week as a reward for sticking with your diet plan.

Have a lot of breakfast selections available such as eggs, cottage cheese, turkey, hard cheeses, bacon and lean beef. Breakfast can be a tasty egg white omelette with spinach and low-fat cheese and a slice of whole grain toast with peanut butter. Cottage cheese with 1/2 cup of blueberries will add some diversity. Indulging in variety will keep you from getting bored or tempted.

Lunch can be very versatile and filling. If you are dining at home, chef salads with shrimp, meat, cheese and oil and vinegar dressing are yummy. On some days add some mayonnaise to the dressing for variety. You can enjoy a 1/2 sandwich with whole grain bread and tuna with mayo and sesame seeds. Have a lettuce wrap with turkey, cheese and romaine lettuce for a change. Take any of these selections to work.

Have meat, chicken shrimp and fish for dinner. There are many creative recipes with low carb veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, peppers and celery. Spices of all kinds are low in carbs and can add new tastes to everyday fare. Enjoy big green salads with different salad dressings. Stir fry some chicken, almonds and bean sprouts for something different.

Eating out can be tricky, especially when warm, aromatic bread is brought to the table first thing. Have some hot boullion before you go out so you will not be starved and tempted. If you are in doubt about specific items, ask the server what ingredients they contain, as there can often be hidden carbs in some dishes. A green salad with your meal will keep you busy for a long time, and you'll eat less as a result. As a treat, have a glass of very dry red wine.

Minggu, 15 September 2013

How to Lose Weight While Breastfeeding

Trying to lose weight after childbirth can be difficult for any new mom, but especially it's tough for those who are breastfeeding. While you may want to shed that baby weight and get back to your pre-pregnancy self, you also want to provide your baby with ample nutrition. Losing weight while breastfeeding may seem complicated, but it's not as difficult as you may think if you use a few simple steps.

Instructions

Find out how many calories you really need. The Le Leche League and KellyMom.com typically recommend that a nursing mother takes in about 1, 500 to 1,800 calories a day.

Cut the amount of calories you eat, but do so gradually. Your body will respond better if you eat little less calories each week than if there is a sudden caloric drop. A healthy weight loss goal is about a pound a week, according to a study done by the University of North Carolina at Greensboro's Department of Nutrition and Foodservice Systems.

Consider the types of foods you eat. Aim to eat mostly foods that are filling and nutritious and avoid sugary foods with empty calories. The Le Leche League suggests eating foods that have good amounts of folate, vitamin B6, calcium and magnesium. Foods containing protein and fiber are also always good choices.

Pay attention to the calories you drink. Many women fail to realize how many calories can easily be cut by simply drinking water and eliminating high-calorie drinks.

Get active. Although breastfeeding itself burns calories, obviously the more active you are the more calories you burn. However, it is important to consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine, especially when you are a new mom.

Consider joining a weight loss support group or program. Many weight loss programs, including Weight Watchers, will accept breastfeeding mothers. Joining a group may help you lose weight by providing additional support and encouragement and also by keeping you accountable of your weight loss goals.

Be patient. Sometimes you may not see weight loss results as quickly as you would like, especially when you are breastfeeding. Remember to cut yourself slack and be patient.

Sabtu, 14 September 2013

Liquid Nutritional Drinks

Liquid nutritional drinks are considered by some to be one of the greatest medical advances in history since they provide sustenance and energy for patients unable to chew regular food. Supplemental feeding also serves the purpose of getting much needed calories, vitamins, and minerals to those who had recent bariatric surgery, since they require considerably less work by the stomach, and allow time for healing. Add this to my Recipe Box.

The need for a full liquid diet for the bariatric patient can last for several weeks due to the incisions involved. Liquid nutritional drinks offer the benefit of providing all of the basic support a human body needs without aggravating wounds. Bariatric surgery may very well be impossible without this type of food.

The success of relying upon liquid nutritional drinks has some individuals within the weight loss and dieting industry promoting liquid nutritional drinks as an effective weight loss aid. The concept of meal replacement has grown popular enough that a large number of companies are lining up to offer their own version of liquid nutritional drinks. Some debate rages over the safety of consumers relying too heavily upon them.

Like everything else in life though, too much of a good thing becomes a bad thing. Relying solely upon liquid nutritional drinks for dietary needs can have adverse reactions, not just due to the high amounts of sugar, but that these meal replacement beverages can have up to 360 calories apiece as well. Someone putting their blood sugar levels at such high levels, for such a long range of time as some people will, can adversely affect other bodily functions. Anyone wishing to utilize liquid nutritional drinks as part of their weight loss strategy might do well to first consult with a licensed physician.

Yet most nutritionists agree the benefits of providing the body with the nutrients provided far outweighs any risks of weight gain for those who might find themselves unable to eat normally. With the exception of a situation like end-of-life care, medical circumstances needing liquid nutritional drinks are temporary, or are alternated with pureed foods on occasion.

According to research conducted in Britain, covered on the website ScienceDirect.com, another recent discovery came to light in regards to nutrition and the elderly: Including liquid nutritional drinks as a supplementary to their diets, not only allowed the seniors the chance to gain weight, but also improved overall sleep patterns. This research was conducted with a control group taking a placebo simultaneously.

The group studied ranged in age from 82 to 89 with an average body mass of 25 kg/sq meter. In the case of these test subjects, with the additional energy provided by the nutritional supplementation of liquid nutritional drinks but without an increase in activities, the needed weight gain was achieved.

How to Buy Food for the Cereal Diet

When you go on a cereal diet, like the Special K Challenge, you lose weight by eating cereal and cereal products at most meals. Many people like the easy menus and tasty foods you'll consume while losing weight on a cereal diet. You can easily buy the food you need for a cereal diet.

Instructions

Visit the grocery store or order cereal diet products online. You can find the Special K diet foods through Amazon.com.

Buy the varieties of cereals you need for your diet. If you do the Special K Challenge, you have a choice of seven varieties. Besides Original, you can buy Chocolatey Delight, Cinnamon Pecan, Fruit & Yogurt, Vanilla Almond and Protein Plus. You'll eat the cereal as two meal replacements.

Purchase skim milk to go along with your cereal. When you go on a cereal diet, you're going to lose weight by eating the cereal with 2/3 cup of skim milk.

Get any other cereal products you'll need for the diet. For example, Special K recommends meal bars and snack bars on their diet with flavors like, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Strawberry.

Pick up some fruits and vegetables. You can eat a limitless number of fruits and veggies on a cereal diet as snacks and additions to your regular meals. Buy bananas, apples, berries, carrots, cucumbers and more.

Jumat, 13 September 2013

The Best Ways to Exercise & Lose Weight Quickly

Exercise is essential for those who wish to get into shape and lose weight. Exercise has many positive benefits such as increased energy, better stamina and reduced body fat. Those who wish to lose weight more quickly should incorporate cardiovascular exercise into their daily fitness routine. Cardiovascular exercise is good for the heart, burns calories and increases the metabolism. Combining exercise with a healthy, reduced calorie diet is the best way to lose weight and keep it off.

Cardiovascular exercise performed at the same intensity for the entire duration of the workout, is known as steady state cardio. Steady state cardiovascular exercise is usually performed for 20 to 45 minutes each workout session. Most people wishing to lose weight add steady state cardio into their fitness routine three to four times a week. Exercisers should try to keep their heart rate around 60 to 80 percent of maximal for the duration of the workout. Steady state cardiovascular exercise is often performed on a treadmill, bicycle or elliptical machine. Whole body exercise such as swimming or running are effective as well.

High intensity interval training is also known as HIIT. Exercise performed in this manner is quite effective in quickly reducing body weight. HIIT is performed by alternating high intensity activity with short periods of lower intensity activities for a duration of 15 to 20 minutes. A typical HIIT routine would alternate exercise performed for 45 to 60 seconds at maximum effort with exercise performed at a lower intensity for 60 to 90 seconds. HIIT can boost metabolism and help the body to burn calories even after the workout is finished.

Strength training is an effective way to burn calories, increase metabolism and develop more lean muscle mass. Weight training is the most common form of strength training and when performed at least three times a week in combination with cardiovascular exercise, it can help lower body weight. Adding lean muscle mass with weight training is an important aspect of keeping body weight lower for the long term, because more muscle means more calories are being burned throughout the day, even when the body is at rest.

Cross training is exercise performed while alternating types of cardiovascular exercise equipment or activities within the same workout session. Cross training may include 15 minutes on the treadmill, 15 minutes running outside and 15 minutes of swimming. Another cross training workout schedule could include 10 minutes of the elliptical, 10 minutes on the stair stepper and 10 minutes walking on a treadmill. Cross training is great for those who get bored with the same workout routine and keeps the body from adapting too quickly to any workout routine.

What Are Prenatals Good For?

One common recommendation health care providers give pregnant women is to take a daily prenatal vitamin. While expectant mothers want to do what is best for their babies, some women wonder if taking a prenatal is worth the effort, especially if the vitamins upset their stomachs or if morning sickness makes them too queasy to swallow pills. However, even though taking a prenatal vitamin may be difficult at times, taking the vitamins throughout pregnancy provides a variety of benefits.

Prenatal vitamins provide benefits to women trying to get pregnant. Standard prenatals include at least 400 mcg of folic acid, a nutrient that women need prior to conception and in early pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Taking a prenatal that include at least 10 mg of B6 before becoming pregnant and in early pregnancy can reduce morning sickness during the first trimester. The extra nutrients in prenatals, such as zinc, can also increase fertility, improving a woman's chance of conceiving in the first place.

Since few women have a perfect diet and their nutrient requirements increase during pregnancy, taking a prenatal vitamin can help fill the gaps in a pregnant woman's diet. Taking a prenatal that includes the recommended daily allowance of a variety of critical nutrients can reassure women that they are getting the necessary nutrients, particularly those who have a hard time eating properly due to morning sickness, fatigue and indigestion. Prenatals can also help ensure that women at greater risk of nutritional deficiencies -- such as vegetarians and women who are lactose intolerant or pregnant with multiples -- receive all the nutrients they need.

Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated to include extra nutrients crucial for pregnancy. Women's need for iron increases significantly during pregnancy. Standard prenatals include 30 mg of iron to help prevent iron-deficiency anemia, a complication that raises the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight and infant death. Some prenatals also include DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid critical for central nervous system development. A 2003 study in "Pediatrics" found that DHA supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding resulted in higher IQ's by the time children turned 4 years old.

Taking a prenatal vitamin may improve pregnancy outcomes. A 2009 study in the "American Journal of Epidemiology" reports that taking prenatal vitamins during pregnancy reduced a woman's risk of miscarrying. Also, according to a 2007 study in the "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine," taking a prenatal vitamin may result in fewer babies born with low birth weight and fewer newborn deaths for women with a body mass index below 18.5.

The Best Way to Lose Weight for Women

Losing weight can be one of the most difficult challenges a woman can face. This is especially true for those whose lives are consumed with work, home, kids and a spouse. You may feel as if you just don't have the time to make for you, but the reality is, you do. There are plenty of ways for you to make your weight loss goals a reality, and it isn't as difficult as you may think. It only requires commitment, effort and a little support from those who love you to make it happen.

There are a number of diets on the market today; some tell you to count your fat grams, some say the best way to lose weight is to cut your carbs. But if you want to lose weight and keep it off, you need to reduce your caloric intake.

Traditionally the rule of thumb was to cut every woman's caloric intake to 1,200 a day, regardless of her weight when starting a diet. However the American Dietetic Association has found this unacceptable, because a drastic drop in calories has the opposite effect: It actually causes her to either not lose weight or actually gain weight. Therefore it now suggests that women reduce their caloric intake by no more than 10 calories for every pound they weigh. For example, if you weigh 140 pounds, you need to eat 1,400 calories a day to lose weight gradually, which is the safer, more effective means of losing and keeping the weight off permanently. As you begin to lose, adjust the number of calories you eat accordingly.

To determine the number of calories you eat in one week, buy a notebook and write down everything you eat. Leave no stone unturned and be completely honest. Write down every drop of ketchup and each tablespoon of butter you cook with. This may seem tedious, but it is the only way for you to see where you need to make adjustments in your diet.

One important thing to remember is serving size. When you read the label, the number of calories is based on serving size. If there are 15 calories in the butter you are using, those calories may be for one teaspoon, yet you are using three. Therefore you are actually taking in 45 calories, not 15. This is important, because these will add up fast.

Many women are not patient. This is especially true when it comes to losing weight. It is imperative, though, to set realistic goals for yourself, goals you know you can reach. Pull out a notebook and make two lists, one for short-term goals and one for long-term goals. These can include the amount of weight you wish to lose by a certain date, the amount of miles you wish to walk in a certain number of weeks, or the changes you wish to make in your diet. Each time you reach a goal, reward yourself. Get your hair or nails done, or buy yourself a new outfit. Read your list frequently, especially on days when you may have strayed; it will keep you motivated to start over and try harder the next day,

This can be done one of three ways: You can use the traditional weight chart that is broken down by age, you can calculate your BMI (body mass index) or you can measure your waist.

Using the traditional weight chart is useful to an extent, but it doesn't tell the whole story. Not every woman is built the same; some are small-boned while others are built larger. Your build plays a significant role in how much you should weigh.

Your BMI will give you a good starting point as well, but it doesn't account for any muscle mass you may have. When a BMI is calculated, you enter your height and weight, and the system gives you a number; if it is 24 or under, you are safe. If it 25 or higher, you are considered overweight. However if some of your weight is derived from muscle, the calculation may be off. Chances are if you haven't been pumping iron, then your BMI is correct.

The last is measuring your waist. A woman's waist circumference should be less than 35; if it is higher, it is an indication you are overweight and/or have too much body fat.

Exercise is a great place to start. If you haven't exercised in a while, you should begin slowly, starting with a brisk walk lasting for 15 to 30 minutes. Though this doesn't necessarily put your body into fat-burning mode, it gives your muscles an opportunity to become acclimated to moving again. This should be done three times a week with at least five minutes of warming up before and cooling down after.

Once you have begun to get used to exercising, begin walking for 30 to 60 minutes a day, three to five days a week. This will provide you with the maximum fat-burning results, so you will lose weight more quickly. You can also change up your routine to make it more exciting; try swimming laps at your local YMCA, take a bike ride, or challenge yourself and go hiking.

At some point, you may want to include strength training three times a week, every other day. Toning your body helps build muscle and burn fat. The more muscle you build, the faster your metabolism will be and the more fat you will burn. Remember, every pound of muscle gained is a pound of fat lost.

Eating six small meals spaced two hours apart is a terrific way to keep your metabolism burning through the day. Just as a car cannot run without fuel, your body cannot function without food. It gives you the energy you need to keep going through your day.

The trick is to make smart food choices and keep your portions small. For breakfast you could have a bowl of oatmeal with a piece of fruit, or an egg-white omelet mixed with low-fat cheese, peppers and onions. Two hours later eat low-fat vanilla yogurt topped with raspberries or almonds. For women on the go, smoothies are another tasty, convenient option. Simply throw a handful of ice into your blender along with a cup of low-fat vanilla yogurt, a cup of skim milk, a banana, and a teaspoon of whey protein powder. This makes enough for two servings, so you'll have enough for both breakfast and lunch.

This can be the biggest downfall for a woman trying to lose weight: She feels like she needs to continue cooking the same meals her family is used to enjoying while she eats a premade meal from a cardboard box. This is not true though.

If spaghetti is everyone's favorite dish, you can make a few changes that makes it healthy for you and delicious for them. Rather than using regular pasta that is refined, use a whole-grain pasta instead. Rather than prepackaged sauce, saute some sliced green and red peppers in olive oil, along with diced chicken, cook down whole tomatoes and add them to the pan with the chicken and veggies. This makes for a healthier topping and one that is just as pleasing to the palate. It is also a dish you can enjoy as well.

Kamis, 12 September 2013

Low GI Diet Meal Planner

While there are countless diets and meal plans doing the rounds these days, each claiming a different way in which to lose weight, there is one feature almost all of them have in common. They all contain low GI, or low glycemic index, foods, which produce only tiny fluctuations in levels of your blood glucose and insulin. Low GI diet meal plans are arguably one of the best sustainable methods to simultaneously lose weight, protect the heart from disease and help with treatment of diabetes.

For choice of breakfast cereal, you have many options. All-bran flakes, rolled oats, muesli and porridge are known to be low on the glycemic index chart. Have a portion of any of these with a cup of skimmed milk or low-fat chocolate milk. Corn flakes, Cheerios or Rice Crispies are higher on the GI index chart. Try to avoid them. Instead of a white bread or bagel, stick to low GI breads made with whole wheat, whole grains, or soya and linseed. You can have a pat of low-fat margarine or reduced-fat sweet preservative with your bread. The first meal of the day could also include a fruit like an apple, some dried apricots or pears that are known to have a low GI index. Try to avoid fruits like figs, watermelon, dates and papaya that have a slightly higher GI index.

Your main meals should have a good balance of staples, vegetables and meats or fish. Instead of medium or high-GI foods like instant white rice, fresh mashed potatoes or taco shells, try to have brown rice, wheat pasta, wheat tortillas and instant noodles. For vegetables, avoid higher GI foods like pumpkin or beetroot and have any one or more of lettuce, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, peas and beans in moderation. For legumes, stick to low GI kidney beans, red and green lentils, chickpeas and black eyed beans as opposed to a dish of beans baked in tomato sauce which is known to have slightly higher GI. For your source of protein, have low-GI meats like skinless chicken or turkey breasts or any lean cut of meat or one portion of baked, broiled or grilled versions of any fish including cod, salmon, shrimp and tuna. If you are keen on dessert, have a low-GI one like a flavored yogurt, but stay away from high-GI ice cream.

Peanuts, walnuts, hummus, sponge cake, oatmeal crackers, cashew nuts and raisins are low on the GI chart. Try to munch on these instead of opting for high-GI snacks like donuts, scones, and pretzels.

You need not stay completely away from high-GI foods. Do have them once in a while with low or medium-GI foods to bring down the glycemic index of the total meal. Eat your meals at proper times during the day, and have them regularly. Get your nutrition from all kinds of food groups, and not just one. Restrict your intake of direct sugar, sweets, fatty foods, alcohol and caffeinated foods. Drink lots of water and rest well.

How Does Fiber Affect Health?

Fiber benefits the body in many ways including lowering bad cholesterol (LDL), also known as Low-Density Lipoprotein, in the blood. This reduces the risk of heart disease. A diet rich in fiber or "bulk" foods slows the absorption of sugar which is particularly beneficial to diabetics. Eating fiber-rich foods also benefits future health in that by doing so may prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.

Avoid constipation by eating plenty of soluble fiber such as oatmeal and other grains. These are beneficial to constipation sufferers as fiber absorbs 100 times its weight in water, forming soft bulky stools that are easy to pass. Because of its water-absorption properties, fiber is useful to those suffering from loose stools as the fiber forms a firmer stool and is beneficial to those suffering from water retention.

Oats, rye, dry beans, barley and other foods high in fiber pass through the digestive system quickly, aiding in keeping the colon clear and preventing pouches called diverticula from forming, causing diverticulitis. Sufferers of diverticulitis cannot eat fruits or vegetables containing small seeds, as the seeds get stuck in these pouches causing pain diarrhea and inflammation.

A recent study conducted by Harvard University concluded that eating high-fiber food did not appear to protect people from colon cancer.

The incidence of kidney stones and gall stones may be reduced by eating a fiber-rich diet. The body's sugar levels are more controlled due to the ingestion of fiber, or bulk, consumption known to reduce rapid insulin releases after digestion due to sugar-rushes.

Eating a diet high in fiber combats hunger and may aid in preventing binge-eating by providing a feeling of fullness. High fiber foods provide energy such as fruits, vegetables and cereals, giving the dieter a feeling of energized well being, while reducing calorie intake. This leads to a more active lifestyle, a better shape and improved health and immunity against disease.

What to Eat When Starting the Atkins Diet

The first two weeks of the Atkins Diet is a stricter version of the diet called the induction diet. This part of the diet accounts for the fastest weight loss on the diet. Some of the loss is water, but fat pounds are lost as well.

The first few days are the hardest. As you break addictive food habits and stop craving food, you will begin to feel energetic and healthy. This strict induction phase is meant to last only 14 days, and some of the forbidden foods are gradually added back into the diet at the end of this phase.

The most important step in preparing to begin the Atkins diet is to get a medical checkup. Dr. Atkins recommends having your thyroid checked, as well as uric acid, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. A five-hour glucose tolerance test is recommended as well as a check of glucose and insulin levels.

The Atkins diet allows you to eat as much as you like of allowed foods. Keep your favorite Atkins treats on hand to make it easy to stay on track. The initial two-week induction diet allows 20 gm of carbohydrates a day. All meats are allowed in their pure form. Be careful of additives and fillers as well as breading. These are sources of extra carbohydrates. Leafy green vegetables are unlimited. Be sure to check the carbohydrate content of condiments such as salad dressings and sauces.

Fat is allowed on the diet. High-fat treats like bacon, butter, nuts and certain cheeses are all freely allowed.

Obtain and use a carbohydrate counter. Remember, during the induction phase only 20 gm of carbohydrates are allowed. It is very easy to eat 20 gm without eating any starchy foods. As you move into phase two, you will add carbohydrates back into the diet in blocks of five gm at a time, so it is important to know how many carbohydrates are in the foods you eat.

Sugar, bread, fruit, starchy vegetables and grains are to be avoided completely during the initial phases of the diet. This includes potatoes, carrots, rice and all products containing wheat flour. Prepared products are a hidden source of carbohydrates in the form of sugars and flour. Check the label for the carbohydrate count of everything you eat, including condiments, chewing gum and cough medicines.

Specially prepared Atkins snack products are available. Some of these are unsuitable for the induction phase, so check labels carefully.

Things for a Cricket Terrarium

Crickets form the basic diet for many pet reptiles. They were once kept for fighting in China, and some people enjoy their chirping. Raising crickets is a way to feed your own pets cheaply or to make a little extra money by selling them on to hobbyists and pet stores. Crickets are also straightforward insects for children to keep as pets or for a science project. A cricket terrarium is simply a tank outfitted to form a suitable environment for raising or breeding crickets. Does this Spark an idea?

A glass or plastic fish tank of about 10 gallons or larger forms a suitable cricket house. Obviously, the larger the tank, the more crickets it can hold. Old fish tanks with leaks work perfectly well, provided there are no gaps the crickets could escape through. Large, transparent plastic boxes are a good alternative. Since mold and mites can be a problem, it is usually best to replace the lid with a sheet of cheesecloth held on with an elastic band. This provides plenty of ventilation. People planning to breed a continuous supply of crickets need at least two tanks, one for breeding adults and one for eggs and juveniles. Adult crickets may otherwise eat the babies. A heat lamp is necessary if the surrounding temperature is likely to fall below about 70 degrees F. Crickets thrive at about 85 degrees F.

For ease of cleaning, the easiest substrate for crickets is paper. Old newspapers or paper tank liners can be simply removed and replaced each time you clean the tank. The used papers are suitable for home composting. Shallow dishes with a couple of inches of damp potting compost give the insects somewhere to lay their eggs. Move the dishes to a second tank afterward. If you want your cricket terrarium to look natural, use a substrate of dry potting compost or sand throughout the tank. The substrate needs replacing every two weeks or so, depending on the size of the tank and the number of crickets.

Places for the crickets to perch and hide allow you to keep more crickets in each tank. The opportunity to show natural behavior and hide from perceived threats stops crickets getting stressed and keeps them healthy. Pieces of bark, cardboard egg boxes or small clay pots or their sides are good cricket hiding places. You could also add a few twigs.

Two small bowls are necessary for food and water. Crickets need to drink. To stop them drowning in a water bowl, either fill the bowl no deeper than the smallest cricket in the tank or soak cotton balls in water and place in a dish. Crickets are omnivores; they eat a mixture of animal and plant matter. Dog kibble and vegetables makes an adequate diet. Pet supply stores also sell ready-made cricket food, including nutrient-rich preparations you feed to or dust on crickets just before feeding them to reptiles.

How to Lose Weight Eating Fast Food

You may be a fast food junkie and eat in your car all the time - especially in the summer when there's so much to see and do, and you're often on the road. However, that doesn't mean you have to gain weight. Take a few simple precautions about what you're putting into your mouth and you will soon see a difference on your tummy and thighs.

Instructions

Investigate all the choices at fast food restaurants. Be very selective, choose the healthiest selections and your efforts will trim calories. Choose grilled over fried chicken and avoid the fish sandwich. It's always fried, and it has more calories than a burger.

Stop ordering combo meals. They may be convenient, but they mean more calories. Order single items. You'll find the cost is not much different.

Take off half the bun from a burger and save half the calories. Better yet, take the bottom half off, cut the top part in half and this will make your beef or chicken patty seem twice as big.

Don't smother your salad with dressing. Keep it on the side. Dip your fork in it before you scoop up the greens. You'll still get the taste, but eat fewer calories. And choose vinaigrette salad dressing instead of ranch. If you do that alone, you save 130 calories.

Avoid super-sized meals. Downsize your order to a kids meal if possible. You can always go back and order something else if you're still hungry.

Don't drink soda or juice drinks sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup. Choose diet soda, coffee, tea or water instead. If you have seltzer with lemon instead of a sweet soda, you save 310 calories.

Avoid mayonnaise or special sauce and you save up to 170 calories per sandwich. Stick with mustard, pickles, onions and ketchup.

Don't order cheese and bacon extras. You can have some bacon bits or some cheese on the side if you want the taste, but don't use it all.

Eat at fast-food restaurants with a friend so you can share. On your own you will always eat the full order.

Cut down on french fries because they are loaded with calories.

Choose low-fat ice cream or ice milk for dessert. Again, think of sharing the dessert. Avoid the pies and turnovers, and anything made of fried dough.

Choose a fruit salad as a side dish or dessert.

Try to limit your visits to fast-food restaurants. No more than twice a week is a good rule of thumb.

If your passion runs to frozen dinners you may already be on a good weight loss diet. Researchers at the University of Illinois recently found that frozen dinners may help speed weight loss. Look out for meals that contain 350 to 400 calories per package and about 20 grams of protein.

Rabu, 11 September 2013

How to Overcome Yo-Yo Dieting

If you repeatedly lose weight and gain it right back due to excessive dieting, you might be a yo-yo dieter. It's a vicious cycle that can seem impossible to break. Fortunately, there are some techniques to overcome yo-yo dieting for good.

Instructions

Avoid fad diets. Diets that claim easy weight loss through laxatives, pills or unbalanced foods choices are not healthy and are not good for long-term weight loss. Once you've lost the weight, you are likely to go back to your old eating habits because fad diets don't teach you how to eat sensibly. A better strategy is to eat foods that are nutritious, but that also keep you full, such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains.

Add one or two healthy healthy behaviors to your regular routine every day. If you focus on realistic lifestyle changes, you will be more successful in losing weight than if you attempt a strict diet. Try to have only one helping at dinner instead of two, or walk your dog every morning for 30 minutes.

Keep a diet journal. Write down everything you eat and how much you exercise each day. If you ate something unhealthy or skipped a workout, write it down. This will help you stay focused and help you make better choices the next day.

Decide if there are any underlying emotional problems that cause you to yo-yo diet. Consider the life events that coincided with weight gains or losses, such as a death in the family or a job loss. Consider speaking to a therapist about any emotional problems.

Selasa, 10 September 2013

Low Potassium Diabetic Diet

Managing diabetes and potassium levels is a double challenge, as you must eat foods low in sugar and potassium. You should make careful food selections that are rich in vitamins and minerals, which are essential for good health. Also become familiar with all the foods that are low in sugar and potassium to help regulate your sugar and keep your potassium levels low.

Potassium is essential for muscle building, healthy heart, regulating blood sugar and for transmitting nerve impulses. Potassium is filtered through the kidney and the excess is excreted through urine. If your potassium levels become high, you are at risk for a disease called hyperkalemia. This disease manifests itself with general weakness, irregular heartbeat, difficulty in breathing and in extreme cases, paralysis.

Select produce that is both low in potassium and sugar. According to the Cleveland Clinic, some low potassium vegetables are cucumbers, lettuce, green beans and cauliflower; these vegetables are also low in sugar. Some fruits that are low in both sugar and potassium are blueberries, grapes, grapefruit and strawberries. Blend some berries with crushed ice and 1 tbsp. of nondairy topping in your blender, and freeze for a delicious sweet treat. Make a salad of lettuce, cucumbers and mushrooms with a salad dressing of lemon juice and whipped cottage cheese for a low potassium and low sugar salad.

Most protein has some potassium content; select carefully and limit portions and servings. Turkey, skinless chicken breasts, tuna and shrimp are low in potassium and are naturally low in sugar. The recommended serving for these choices are 3 oz., according to University of Maryland Medical center. Cheddar and Swiss cheese are both low in potassium as well as cottage cheese. The recommended serving amount is 1 oz. for the hard cheeses and and 1/2 cup of cottage cheese.

Manage your portion size to make sure you are consuming the proper sugar and potassium levels in your diet. Vegetables and fruit are excellent for most healthful diets; however, even eating low potassium and low sugar produce in large quantities can cause a rise in both blood sugar and potassium. A serving size is generally 1/2 cup.

Soak both fruits and vegetables in water to lower the potassium content. Cook vegetables in a large pot of water to reduce more of the potassium. Rinse canned vegetables thoroughly to remove potassium content. Read your labels on all foods for potassium and sugar content.

There are many fruits, vegetables and carbohydrate selections that are extremely high both in potassium and sugar. Some fruits and vegetables high in sugar and potassium are bananas, dried fruits, sweetened canned fruits, potatoes and acorn squash. Sports drinks, seasoned salt, canned vegetables are often high in sugar, potassium and undesirable preservatives and additives, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

How to Lose 10 Pounds in Seven Days

Losing 10 pounds in seven days is not entirely impossible, but it does take a drastic lifestyle change and concentrated dedication to achieve such results. To burn one pound of body weight, you must burn 3,500 calories. Therefore, the math in losing 10 pounds would suggest that you must burn 35,000 calories. When the daily calorie consumption is drastically dropped, you will lose more than just fat; you will also burn water weight and a small amount of muscle.

Instructions

Combine the ingredients listed above for a weight loss jump start recommended by TV trainer Jillian Michaels. This recipe is made to flush out excess water weight you may be carrying around in your body.

Eat five or six small meals a day instead of three large meals to optimize your metabolism. Cut out snacking altogether and drink plenty of water in between meals to keep your stomach full.

Consume caffeine, which is known to boost your metabolism by six percent and provide a significant pre-workout boost. Sources of caffeine include coffee or caffeine supplements.

Perform as much high-intensity cardio exercise as possible. Exercise each day of that seven-day period, possibly twice or even three times per day.

Research other extreme weight loss methods such as "The Cabbage Soup Diet." This offers a set meal plan to follow to help you achieve your results. Though boring, it does get results.

Water Weight Loss Diet

The water weight loss diet refers to the crash diet of only consuming water to lose weight quickly. It also refers to any diet where this and other crash diets result in losing only water weight that is quickly regained once the dieter eats solid food.
To lose weight permanently, consult a reputable source such as My Food Pyramid, by the USDA, to design a realistic diet, exercise daily and practice stress management. Do a water fast only under direct medical supervision.

This crash diet is not a safe means to lose weight. It requires the dieter to consume only water for however many days it takes to lose the desired about of weight. Normally, it is best to lose no more than 1 to 1-1/2 pounds per week while eating a diet provided with vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber.
Crash dieting might result in a rapid weight loss to fit into a party dress, but it is short-lived, as most people regain the weight they lost and gain back several pounds more once they begin eating.

If you have any chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, liver disorders or are taking any prescription medications, see your doctor. If you are in good health, you can use the online resource, My Food Pyramid, designed by the United States Department of Agriculture.
There are several food pyramids presented: children, teens, senior citizens, pregnant women, vegans or vegetarians.
Eating a variety of foods every day will stave off boredom and bingeing. Drink water between meals to help prevent overeating and create a sense of fullness.

Exercising for at least 20 minutes, four times a week will speed your weight loss by increasing your metabolism. You will build lean muscle tissue that has larger "energy needs" than fat, and you will burn more calories and lose weight.
If you are new to exercising, start by walking for 10 minutes, two or three times a day. Recruit a weight loss buddy to walk with you, or call friends on your cell phone to make the time go by quickly.

Why Is My Adult Dog Losing Teeth?

By the time a dog is an adult, he has a full set of adult teeth that should last for the rest of his life. If your adult dog is losing teeth, you need to consult with your veterinarian to find what is causing the tooth loss.

Like humans, dogs have two sets of teeth: milk teeth when they are puppies and permanent teeth when they are adults. Milk teeth typically fall out and are replaced by adult teeth by the time a dog is 1 year old. These adult teeth should remain with a dog from then until the dog dies. If an adult dog is losing teeth, it is a sign that there is an underlying health problem. Tooth loss in adult dogs can be caused by metabolic disorders, disease or trauma to the mouth.

The number one cause of tooth loss in adult dogs is the same as the number one cause of tooth loss in adult humans: periodontal disease. Periodontal disease begins when plaque builds on your dog's teeth and works its way under the gums. Once it is there, the bacteria in plaque secretes toxins that damage the gums and the connective tissues that hold teeth in place. If left untreated, a cycle of inflammation and remission begins, with more damage being done with each period of inflammation until finally your adult dog begins loosing teeth.

If your adult dog is losing teeth, the cause could be a metabolic disorder like hyperparathyroidism. This disorder causes hyperactivity in one or more of a dog's parathyroid glands. One of the effects this has on a dog's health is the reduction in calcium from teeth and bones. This can lead to loose, mobile teeth, and if it progresses far enough, it could cause tooth loss in an adult dog.

If your dog has suffered some kind of trauma to his mouth, then he could lose some teeth. The most common cause of trauma this severe is something hitting your dog hard in the mouth like a thrown ball or a rock. It could also happen if your dog were hit by a car. The force of impact could fracture a tooth. If the break does not run through the entire tooth, it might not fall out right away. Further trauma to the tooth or eventual wearing away of connective tissue could cause the loss of the tooth at a later date.

Other factors can cause your adult dog to lose teeth. If she has been chewing on something hard like a rock or cement, she could snap a tooth. Your dog could develop a benign oral tumor called an epulis. If this tumor grows too large, it could push the tooth it grows from out of place to the point where it is lost.

How to Detect and Prevent Periodontal Gum Disease

Periodontal gum disease affects the ligaments that connect to the tooth's roots, the gums and the gap between the tooth and gums. With proper tooth and gum care, a person most likely avoids this disease and retains their smile for their lifetime.

Instructions

Examine your teeth and gum line regularly searching for warning signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is gingivitis when in a mild form and periodontitis in its severe form.

Look for warning signs such as easily bleeding gums, swollen gums, persistent bad breath, loose or separating permanent teeth or any change in how your teeth fit together. Also, watch for gums drawn away from the teeth.

Go to a dentist for checkups and cleanings twice a year to prevent periodontal disease. In addition, brush and floss your teeth and eat a balanced diet avoiding sweets. The U.S.D.A. provides a suggested balanced diet and food pyramid for all age categories.

Change your toothbrush once a quarter and use fluoride enhanced toothpaste. Kill mouth bacteria with a mouthwash daily.

Reduce risk factors such as smoking and chewing tobacco, the effects of diabetes, crooked teeth or bridges and defective fillings by addressing these conditions before they contribute to gum disease. Other items to watch as risk factors are pregnancy, birth control pills, steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs and cancer therapy drugs.

Four Negative Things About GMOs

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose cells have been altered in a laboratory. This is done to seeds to produce stronger crops that are easier to grow, resistant to strong pesticides and less expensive to produce. Though you may not realize it, GMO foods are all over U.S. grocery stores. Unless you are personally associated with the farm that grows your food, or your market has noted the items they sell are not modified, there is a good chance you are eating GMOs.

A study by the International Journal of Biological Sciences found a link between GMO corn consumption and organ failure in the kidney and liver. There might also be a connection between GM food and problems with the spleen, heart, adrenal gland and haematopoietic system. Analysis of the study led scientists to believe the problem was due to the pesticides used on the GM corn. In another study conducted by the Russian Academy of Sciences in 2005, mother rats were fed GM soybeans. The babies of the rats which were fed genetically modified soy flour had a mortality rate six times higher than that of rats raised with feed from conventional soy. Babies that survived experienced poor growth, sterility and stunted growth.

Another effect of GMOs is the development of insects resistant to pesticides. In the past, one application of a strong pesticide killed bugs and pests that fed on crops. Though the pesticides effectively protected the crops from bugs, they occasionally damaged the produce. GM seeds were created to handle strong pesticide applications that are applied several times. This has resulted in insects building a tolerance to these pesticides.

There are no long-term studies concerning GM food. Even if the effects of GMOs on rats are not the same for humans, there is no way of knowing if, over time, eating GM foods will cause health problems. Medical professionals believe diets comprised mainly of unnatural ingredients and chemicals may be harmful to health, but no one knows how to classify GM foods in terms of nutrition.

In addition to health uncertainties, there is a lack of awareness when it comes to what on the shelves are actually GM products. There is no regulation in the United States concerning the labeling of products as modified. Consumers have no way of knowing if something has been modified, or in the case of meat and dairy, whether the animal was fed a GM diet.

Control over the corruption of non-GM crops is another negative aspect of GMOs. GM soybean crops produce sterile beans. Plants are pollinated in an indiscrimate process. When cross-pollinating occurs with farms that produce non-GM products, the seeds from those plants become sterile, too. There is no way to control the spread of the sterility genes, so non-GM plants are at risk for becoming extinct.

Pages

Senin, 30 September 2013

Instructions

Diabetes

The 1800 Calorie Diet

Counting Calories

Minggu, 29 September 2013

Salads

Cereals

Soups

Sandwiches

Epsom Salt Bath

Vinegar Bath

Vinegar as Dietary Aid

Side Effects

Vinegar, Epsom Salts and Diet

Sabtu, 28 September 2013

Instructions

Instructions

Jumat, 27 September 2013

What is a Water Pill?

Who Uses the Water Pill?

Can you Lose Weight with a Water Pill?

Can You Overdose on the Water Pill?

Other Issues Related to Water Pills

Kamis, 26 September 2013

The Weight Loss Problem

Exercising

Eating Healthy

Plastic Surgery

Extreme Measures

Weight Loss Programs

Selasa, 24 September 2013

Foods To Avoid

Herbal Detox for Intestinal Cleansing

Cleansing Fast for Intestinal Cleansing

Minggu, 22 September 2013

Eat Breakfast

Snack Regularly

Choose Meat

Water

Exercise

Instructions

Sabtu, 21 September 2013

The Facts

Counting Carbohydrates

Theories/Speculation

Results

Considerations

Jumat, 20 September 2013

Diagnosis and Choosing a Diet

Hills L/D Diet

Instructions

Rabu, 18 September 2013

Instructions

Instructions

Senin, 16 September 2013

Attitude for 30 days

Breakfast Solutions

Lunch Solutions

Dinner Solutions

Dining-Out Solutions

Minggu, 15 September 2013

Instructions

Sabtu, 14 September 2013

Bariatric Patients

Weight Loss

Dangers

Benefits

Sleep Aid

Instructions

Jumat, 13 September 2013

Steady State Cardio

High Intensity Cardio

Weight Training

Cross Training

Pregnancy Preparation

Nutritional Insurance

Extra Nutrients

Medical Benefits