Health and Fitness Tips

Glutathione And Memory

2009-05-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

What is the significance of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and memory?

What about antioxidants alpha lipoic acid and N-acetylcysteine (NAC)?

Well, scientific studies have proven that stress (environmental, physical from illness,injury) can lead to memory deficits and this provides evidence for the therapeutic role for antioxidants such as glutathione, alpha lipoic acid and n-acetylcysteine (NAC).

Your memory is the activity of your brain that recalls information you have learned or experienced. This complex process involves many different parts of the brain.

Believe it or not, you begin losing a few brain cells at a time in your 20's. Your body also makes less of the chemical messengers that help make the connections. The normal aging process therefore affects memory by changing the way your brain handles information making it harder to recall.

What is normal: your short-term and remote memories aren't usually affected by aging. But your recent memory may be affected. For example, you may forget names of people you've met recently.
Areas of concern:

1. Forgetting things much more often than you used to
2. Forgetting how to do things you've done many times before
3. Trouble learning new things
4. Repeating phrases or stories in the same conversation
5. Trouble making choices or handling money
6. Not being able to keep track of what happens each day

Whenever there is any question see your doctor to be sure it is nothing more than the normal aging process.

Here are some strategies can you start NOW to help you keep your memory as sharp as possible so that you can have the quality of life that you deserve:

1. Exercise daily to increase the circulation to your brain. An active lifestyle can reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease which can lead to memory loss;
2. Stress management to control cortisol the hormone that can damage certain portions of your brain;
3. Restful sleep;
4. No smoking: constricts arteries that deliver oxygen to the brain;
5. Nutrition: see below.

You probably know already that a diet based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and "healthy" fats will provide lots of health benefits, but such a diet can also improve memory. Research indicates that certain nutrients nurture and stimulate brain function:

1. B vitamins, especially B6, B12, and folic acid: Protects nerve cells. They're also involved in making red blood cells, which carry oxygen. (Best sources: spinach and other dark leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, strawberries, melons, black beans and other legumes, citrus fruits, soybeans.)
2. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and beta carotene: Antioxidants also improve the flow of oxygen through the body and brain. (Best sources: blueberries and other berries, sweet potatoes, red tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, green tea, nuts and seeds, citrus fruits, liver.)
3. Omega-3 fatty acids: They count as "healthy" fats, as opposed to saturated fats and trans fats, protecting against inflammation and high cholesterol. (Best sources: cold-water fish such as salmon, herring, tuna, halibut, and mackerel; walnuts and walnut oil; flaxseed and flaxseed oil)
4. Glutathione, Alpa lipoic acid, NAC: Scientific studies have shown us that these antioxidants are vital to the thinking brain and provide evidence for a possible therapeutic role for these antioxidants.

Find Out the Truth About the Quality of Bottled Water

2009-05-26T14:53:00.000-07:00

There are three very important reasons why you should consider alternatives to bottled water. Here they are.

1. They cost a lot. You will have to spend a lot of money every month. Also, you can use bottled water only for drinking purposes. You will have to use contaminated tap water for other purposes like showering and bathing. As a result, you are still putting your health at risk in the long run.

2. They are not as clean as you think. The FDA has pretty much the same guidelines for the quality of bottled water and tap water. So, barring a few, most bottled water plants across the country sell water that is just as good as tap water. As a result, you get to drink contaminated water despite spending so much money.

3. Every year, people dump millions of plastic bottles, pollute the surroundings, and do irreparable damage to the environment. So, you should say no to bottles for the sake of this planet.

So, let me make it clear - it is expensive, it pollutes the environment, and, most importantly, the water quality obtained from bottled water is not as good as always claimed. A much better alternative is getting a water purifier.

When it comes to water purifiers, the purification method employed is the most important thing you should look out for. There are a few methods that are considered very effective when it comes to water purification. They are ion exchange, active carbon filtration, and sub micron filtration. There are two reasons why you should go for a good water purifier.

1. The water you get is very clean and free from contaminants. In other words, it is way better than the quality of bottled water.

2. It is very cheap. Once you buy a good water purifier, you need not spend any money on it for at least a couple of years. When you choose a water purifier based on the methods mentioned above, you need not spend a lot of money on installation as well. So, whichever way you look at it, it is cost effective.

Truth About Dr Oz Extreme Life Extension - Burn 700 Calories Without Exercise & Diet to Live Longer

2009-05-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

Dr. Oz Now Discusses about Extreme Life Extension, talking about possibly living to be 120 or even 150. Well, if you're living Oprah's life, of course you would want to live to be 150. But if you busted your back at work 12 hours a day, would you rather finish the line at a normal age? Anyways, for most of us, we want to live longer.

Calorie Restriction
There's a man in Oprah's audience whom Dr. Mehmet Oz says may become the first man in history to live to be 150 years old, and that is Joe Cordell. He is one of thousands around the world who believe they have found the key to extreme longevity, which is calorie restriction. He believes that by eating less and restricting your caloric intake, you can trigger a genetic switch that will slow aging. Joe does not deprive himself of food, but instead, he fills up on natural fruits, lean proteins, and vegetables which are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients.

Burn 700 calories without Exercising
When they say you can burn up to 700 calories without doing anything, they are referring to Infrared Sauna Therapy. The sauna that was shown on the show appears to be Sunlight Saunas. They are the leading manufacturer of infrared saunas, and they are not cheap. They are the only ones that have clinical results that show increase in core body temperature, reduction in blood pressure, and assistance in weight loss. This is why Sunlight Saunas are used and recommended by more healthy professionals. You also need to think over and over if you plan to have this infrared sauna.

David Murdock's Diet & Fitness Routine
David is 85 years old, but he can do 50 push-ups without a break. He usually starts his day with cardio and weight training, and he also says that the secret to his longevity is what he eats. Now what does he eat? Fruits & Vegetables, exclusively, and he does not eat saturated fat, nor does he count calories. Through this diet, he also does not have a flu or a cold for 20 years. Now that is amazing, and he does not even take any pills.

High-Tech & Advanced Ways to Extend Your Life
There are numerous advances in science and technology, and Dr. Oz says people will one day be able to live healthier & longer lives. Wake Forest University is home to one of the country's foremost tissue regeneration labs, and these technologies can add decades to your life. Let's look at regenerative medicine. Dr. Anthony Atala of Wake Forest's program says his team is working to create tissues, cells, and organs for those who need them. Today, we have a limited time span because our organs are breaking down because of aging and other factors, but imagine in the future when you can easily replace these organs with a new one easily. This is very possible. Atala's researchers have grown a number of different types of body parts, including bones, muscles, and even a heart valve which works.

Stem Cell Research Pros Cons

2009-05-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

What is the real debate? When we discuss stem cell research pros and cons, is the debate truly about adult v. embryonic? If so, why is that fact frequently obfuscated?

It is the nascent (i.e., early) stage that provides the remarkable potential to develop into many different types in the body. They serve as a sort of repair system for the body. Theoretically, they can divide without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive.

What happens when division occurs? Potentially, it either remains in the nascent state or develops a more specialized function (e.g., muscle, RBC, brain, etc.).

In the nascent stage, it may turn into liver, skin , nerve, etc. In the early-stage (hence, the term "stem"), they possess varied abilities to differentiate (i.e., turn) and become more specialized.

What exactly are "embryonic stem cells"? They come from embryos that are four to five days old.

In this nascent stage, it is called a blastocyst. Blastocysts have approximately 50 to 150 cells.

In this stage, they are classified as "pluripotent" (i.e., they can divide into more stem cells or they can specialize and become any tissue). Therein lies the gist of the argument for the use of them in the embryonic phase, a phase in which they have the highest potential for use to regenerate or repair diseased tissue and organs in people.

Thus, the term "the master cells of the human body". They can divide and replicate themselves, as well as other structures.

They are found in various parts of the human body at every stage of development from embryo, where they can turn into any of the 300 different types that make up the adult body.

In the "adult" (a/k/a "somatic") phase, they exist throughout the body. They are found inside of different types of tissue. Additionally, one may find them in adult tissue, and cord-blood may be harvested from the umbilical cord following birth.

They have been found in, among others, the following tissues: (1) brain; (2) bone marrow; (3) blood; (4) blood vessels; (5) skeletal muscles; (6) skin; and (7) the liver. Adult stem cells remain in a quiescent (i.e., non-dividing) state for years until activated by disease or tissue injury.

There are three principal processes in which they play a central role in an organism: (1) development; (2) repair of damaged tissue; and (3) cancer resulting from division gone awry.

They were first used in Medicine to regenerate healthy blood and immune cells in cancer patients following chemotherapy. From this, the field of "regenerative medicine" emerged. This is a field in which scientists focus on the use of cord-blood for the treatment of both brain injury and juvenile diabetes.

Once matured, they eventually become bones, heart muscle, nerve, and other organs and tissue. Observing this transformation provides a better understanding of how a variety of diseases and conditions develop.

They have the potential to renew themselves through a process called mitosis. During this process, they may differentiate into many different specialized types.

Although there are 300 trillion of them, most have specialized functions. These specialized functions include production of blood, lung tissue, brain tissue, skin, and liver cells.

For the most part, they cannot do anything other than that for which they were specifically designed. Contrariwise, nascent stages, they do not have specialized function. Therefore, they are immature and possess the potential to develop into many different kinds. Thus, the moniker "'all-purpose".

A lack of specialization suggests that they possess the ability to reproduce themselves, indefinitely. Furthermore, under the right conditions, they may develop and mature, producing nerve, skin, pancreas, and other tissues possessing specialized functions.

The body contains over 200 types, each with a specific job. As blood, they carry oxygen. As muscle, they contract so that we can move. As nerves, they transmit chemical signals.

The primary purpose: make new cells. They do this by undergoing an amazing differentiation-process, changing into many types.

When they divide, one of them often remains in its original state, while the other specializes (e.g., heart, blood, brain, or other type). It is amazing that they appear to be able to divide and replenish themselves - without any apparent limit.

Never Age Again With Resveratrol in 3 Simple Steps

2009-05-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

Resveratrol is one of the hottest health products on the market right now and for good reason. Among its many other health benefits, resveratrol is able to produce anti-aging effects which is one of the main reasons why it is so popular right now. Just about anyone can harness the power of resveratrol in order to slow down the aging process. In fact, all it takes is 3 easy steps.

Keep on reading to find out exactly how you can start looking younger in just 3 simple steps.

Slow It Down By Keeping It Simple

Looking younger and slowing down the aging process really isn't difficult at all if you know what you are doing when it comes to using resveratrol supplements. And fortunately for you, I am going to tell you exactly what you need to know in order to do so. Look below for 3 easy steps to never looking a day older...

1) The first thing you will need to do is to do some research on resveratrol products. Doesn't seem appealing? Don't worry, it is possible to get all of the important information you need from an in depth guide. A resveratrol guide will save you dozens of hours and a whole lot of money.

2) Select a quality resveratrol product. Now, this isn't going to be easy if you don't have access to a guide. If that is the case then you are going to have to do some research on your own.

3) Buy a resveratrol supplement and begin taking the recommended dosage. This last step is self explanatory. It is dead simple and incredibly easy to do if you have been using a guide along the way.

If these 3 steps seem overly simple it is because they are. This is really all it takes in order to start the anti-aging process by using resveratrol. If you follow these steps and use a guide along the way then you will be good to go.

Great Exercises That Build Muscle Fast

2009-05-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons why a person would want to build muscle fast. For some people, it is the physical appearance they are after. Other people may want to build muscle fast for a career that requires it, like a firefighter or police officer. Whatever your reason, there are certain exercises that are more effective than others for building muscle.

Free weight exercises are the best possible exercises you can do if you want to build muscle. Machine weights can be great, but there is a limited range of movement so half the work is being done for you. With free weights, you are forced to use your muscles not only to lift the weight, but to keep it in the right position as you go through the exercise. Because of this, free weights are more effective in building muscle mass when compared to machine weights.

Some other great exercises that you should be doing are bench presses, which are great for the shoulders, triceps, and chest. Another good one is the overhead press which also helps build the shoulders and triceps. Bar dips increase muscle mass in the shoulders, arms and chest. Squats are the number one exercise for working out your lower back, legs, and buttocks. Pull ups are amazing when it comes to your shoulders and triceps, and barbell rows will do the same thing.

If you have too much body fat, it is also important to incorporate some cardio into your workout. Treadmill running, jump rope, or aerobics are all great for your heart, and for removing fat from your body.

When you want to build muscle fast, following the above tips will help you get the body you want in minimal time. Remember to always eat healthy and drink plenty of water as you work out.

Six Pack Abs For Women - Lose Unwanted Belly Fat

2009-05-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

Flat stomach, six pack abs -- they're not just or guys. More and more, women are looking for proven ways to get rid of stubborn belly fat. Not only are six pack abs for women the ultimate symbol of sex appeal, researchers have found that losing belly fat is one of the most important steps women can take to stay healthy.

Abdominal obesity has been linked with diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, a cluster of health problems known collectively as metabolic syndrome. In a recent study by the French National Institute for Health, a positive relationship between belly fat and lung function impairment was also found.

To avoid the health risks associated with belly fat, women should maintain a waist circumference of less than 35 inches. If you want to invest in your future health or put your favorite celebrity to shame with your own flat stomach and six pack abs, you need only commit to battling your belly bulge. With a combination of good nutrition, exercise and at training, you'll soon have a lean midsection. You can get started using the following guidelines.

Healthy Eating

Garbage in, garbage out. What does this mean? Basically that processed and fast foods produce an unhealthy body lacking in nutrients. However, good food choices lead to a leaner you. Thus, you should focus on increasing your consumption of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts and whole grains.

Exercise

Six pack abs are not a myth as some would lead you to believe. But, it does take some discipline. To start, you need to lose the belly fat that covers up your abdominal muscles. Exercises to accomplish this goal include squats, deadlifts, overhead presses, pull-ups, dynamic rows and bench presses.

You should also incorporate cardiovascular training in your exercise routine. Whether it's running, walking, cycling or taking a dance class, cardio exercises can help burn the fat.
Ab Training

While you can't "spot- burn" belly fat, you can firm up your abdominal muscles and get a flatter belly. Exercises such as crunches, plank holds, abdominal bicycles, hanging leg raises and wheel rollouts are a good place to start. These should be performed two to three times a week.

Six pack abs for women can be achieved through proper nutrition, exercise and at training. If you follow a workout program incorporating these elements, you'll notice a significant difference in the strength and tone of your entire torso within six weeks. The link below provides free access to the 55 fastest fat burning foods and over two dozen unique workout ideas to start your journey toward a leaner, sexier body, including six pack abs.

Ryan Reynolds Workout For Wolverine X-Men's Origins

2009-05-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

Ryan Reynolds has been chosen to play the role of Deadpool in the latest Marvel X-Men film called... X-Men Origins Wolverine. Along with Hugh Jackman, Reynolds has done an incredible job of getting in shape for this movie. In this article, I will discuss the... "Ryan Reynolds Workout Wolverine," as it is now being referred to.

Most fans of Marvel comics agree that the choice of Ryan Reynolds for the sarcastic and smart Alec... Deadpool character, was right on the money. Reynolds, who did not disappoint any of his fans with the physical conditioning he showed in the Wesley Snipes movie... Blade Trinity. Ryan displayed incredible muscularity and amazing 6 pack abs, for an actor who has made his money from acting silly. After all, he is just a goofy comic!

Comic or not, Reynolds has been getting some interesting roles lately. (In fact, he is on the shortlist for the DC comic character -- Flash.) Whether that film is made or not, one thing is for certain, he definitely paid the price in the training room.

Ryan Reynolds Workout for Blade

For Blade Trinity, Reynolds supposedly gained 20 pounds of muscle and lost 33% of his body fat. According to some sources, his body fat was as low as 3%. (Although, for most men anything below 8% body fat and your six pack abs will start showing ) Jessica Biel and Reynolds personal trainer during that film was Buddy Strom.

Who was Ryan Reynolds Trainer?

Ryan Reynolds selected Strom again, as his celebrity trainer. Strom, is not new to the celebrity training business, having trained... Jennifer love Hewitt, Jessica Biel, Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Lopez, and even Britney Spears for her VMA appearance. He is currently training Scarlett Johansson for her upcoming movie role of Black Widow in Ironman 2. However, let us get back to the Ryan Reynolds Wolverine Workout.

Ryan Reynolds Workout Secrets

Strom is a big believer in "functional fitness" which combines traditional weight training with core and stability exercises. Again, for this workout program he had Ryan Reynolds train one body part per day over a six-day period. Reynolds who appears to be an Ectomorph probably has a hard time putting on muscle size.

That is why Strom went to a one body part per day workout. The rep range was kept low, 6 to 8 reps per set. Reynolds was pushed on each and every workout to use as much weight as possible. Lifting heavy weights became his mantra!

Here is Ryan Reynolds Diet

Here is a sample the diet that Ryan Reynolds was on during the filming of X-Men Origins Wolverine.

* Breakfast: 2 eggs a slice of avocado and 1 cup of oatmeal
* Snacks: a protein Bar
* Lunch: tuna wrap or chicken salad
* Snacks: a whey protein shake, protein bar and an apple
* Dinner: broiled fish or chicken, brown rice and vegetables
* Snacks: protein shake

In order for Ryan to put on some muscle size, he had to train heavy and eat 5 to 6 times per day. The diet he followed was probably like this... 40% protein... 40% carbohydrates... 20% fats. Strom would probably had him taking flaxseed oil in order to get the proper type of fats in his body. Looking at some of the still shots of Reynolds as Deadpool it is obvious that this... "Ryan Reynolds Wolverine Workout" got the job done!

Hugh Jackman Workout - Discover How to Get Ripped Using the Hugh Jackman Workout

2009-05-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

Hugh Jackman is back bigger than ever for his role as Wolverine... in X-Men Origins Wolverine . In this article you will discover the secrets of how to put on some serious muscle size while getting ripped at the same time using the Hugh Jackman workout. If you have seen the trailer for the movie then you know that he has put on some serious muscle size! And you may be wondering what was the Hugh Jackman diet and training program like. Continue reading this article and get all the details.

In this the latest film X-Men Origins Wolverine, (the first chapter in the X-Men saga,) in this film Wolverine unites with several other legends of the X-Men universe. The stunts on this film are amazing and you can easily see why Jackman needed to be in incredible physical condition to put up with the rigors of the filming. (Jackman also is one of the producers and was paid as an actor... approximately $20 million for the film.)

The Hugh Jackman Wolverine Workout

For this workout his personal trainer, Michael Ryan, focused on bulking up and so the work out was a high intensity weight training program. He woke up each morning at 4 AM to eat one of several small high-protein meals, that he would eat during the day. (Six meals a day and they used a whey protein isolate as a supplement)

His workouts started at 6 AM and he stayed in Australia during the entire period. Liev Schreiber, who plays the role of Victor Creed/Sabertooth... (Logan's half-brother) also followed an intense training program putting on almost 40 pounds of muscle for his part. The program that Ryan used applied the principle of muscle confusion, constantly mixing the Jackman's program to continuously shock the muscles into growing. Medium levels of cardio were used to ensure that he would also have six pack abs.

Although Jackman is almost 40 now, he certainly proves the point that age has no bearing on bodybuilding success. Try the Hugh Jackman workout and perhaps you'll have a body you will be proud to show off.

Muscle Confusion - What is It?

2009-05-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

The literal meaning isn't that hard to figure out. Muscle confusion is confusing your muscles. That's the easy part. But what is the point behind it? How does it work? Why would you want to do it? These are the questions I'm here to answer.

I want to stress muscle confusion isn't actually working out. Instead, it is a way of working out and customizing your routines to constantly change and not become stagnant with your body's transformations.

A common situation people find themselves in when they are new to working out and set up a solid exercise regime is instant results (don't feel yourself, this is possible). MOST of the programs that provide the hype and evidence for losing 10 inches in 7 days and 15 lbs in 15 days are legit. In fact it's not that hard when it comes to it. They provide you with everything you need: your diet, your exercises, motivation, when to go to sleep, when to go to the bathroom! The problem with these is after the initial phase (losing 10 inches and 15 lbs or whatever they claim) is that is all you ever lose. You're caught in a stand still, and dead lock, checkmate!

Why?

Because your body has adapted to these routines that these people have set out for you. They aren't nearly as effective as they were in the first 2 weeks of adopting your new program, especially if it's your first exercise/workout program. So you can lose that 15lbs in the first 15 days, but after that it will take you months, if not years, to lose another 15lbs with the same workouts! This is where muscle confusion comes in.

We are creatures of habit, and your body is smart enough to realize what your routine consists of if you're rotating the same 3 workouts every week, month after month.

So what's the solution?

The conclusion is generally unanimous: switch your exercise routines. However, the range after when you switch varies, some say after 3 weeks, others say after a month or 5 weeks.

That in itself won't help you. You need to understand what exercises stimulate the muscles that aren't being targeted in your current routine to extremely benefit from muscle confusion and switching routines.

Liquid Cleanse Diet - A Rapid Experience in Losing Weight

2009-02-11T14:13:00.000-08:00

The liquid cleanse diet has gained consequent popularity when detox diets became popular. This though is an extreme form of dieting yourself to losing weight. Subscribing to this takes a lot of discipline and sacrifices and the benefits are not worth half the pain and suppression experienced. It is a test of endurance and will.

To understand this better, a liquid diet rely heavily on liquid food to get the person through each day. As far as a rapid experience to losing weight is concerned, it is good, except that it robs you of the nutrients to keep you fit and healthy. In fact, if a nutrition expert advices you to go trough this experience, it would be temporary if ever. It is only appropriate under certain conditions, otherwise it is not advisable.

After the condition in which a liquid cleanse diet will serve its good, the person must eat solid food again. When that happens, all the sacrifices and the pain will be as nothing as the body will again gain the weight it lost. Often because of the suppression it suffered, the body will tend to demand more.

Conditions though that are advisable to undergo a liquid cleanse diet is when a person has just undergone a bariatric surgery, a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy. The purpose here obviously is to relieve the digestive tract of too much strain. Obesity could also benefit from the this for a certain duration but always under the supervision of a physician or a medical weight loss team.

A liquid cleanse diet may be a rapid experience to losing weight but it is never advisable for individuals when the main purpose for undergoing this is purely on reasons of weight loss alone. There is a host of alternatives that are healthier out there.

Now you want to have more energy, be Healthier, look Younger, lose weight, and cleanse your body, right?

Set Goals to Be Successful

2009-02-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

Successful people always have goals that are measurable. They made the decision when they wish to achieve their goals. Have you seen any sports star who is successful without goals? In the business world also it is necessary to set goals, and people who fail have no definite goals to follow.

Let us take a closer look at how wheat is separated from the chaff. Everyday I meet many people who are trying to be successful in some way or the other. I can now easily distinguish people who have achieved everything they wanted, from people who are simply stuck some where year after year. So, where is the difference?

The successful people set measurable goals for their activities. What goals you have set for yourself, your business, job, and family that you wish to achieve by the end of 2009? You must have something measurable like a financial objective, education, or to launch your business and so on.

The reason for setting a measurable goal is because your subconscious mind acts on what your conscious mind allows. Creating thoughts of success, good health or something that cannot be measured will not help your subconscious to make it.

So break all the limitations and use your imagination power. Once you list down on paper you will be able to find what you are truly passionate about. Follow this list and do not allow anyone to get in the way what you are dreaming about. The big barrier is having guts to realize your dream. You will meet many people around you who will tell you it is not possible to achieve what you dream, and you start believing in them and then collapse. Remember only you know what is good for you. Take your own responsibility and turn your dreams into reality. Don't allow anyone to steal your dreams.

There would not be any airplanes if Right Brothers did not dream about it. Everything which is newly created is through a person's dream, visions and goals. Today the biggest challenge people face is balancing their finances. So setting financial goal is a best thing to start with.

How to set a measurable goal?

- First have passion for your goal
- Your goal must be measurable
- Mention the date of achieving your goal
- Write down goals in present tense
- Your goal should include health, relationship and finance
- The goal should be so big that you really wouldn't know how to achieve it

The ideal way to start working on your goal is to make 'goal card' that you should read ten times each morning and ten times each night, which will allow you to unite with your dream or goal which you want to achieve. The card should look like this:

By December 31, 2009, I am thankful to God that I earn $5,000 a month, and I am able to spend 3 hours of quality time everyday with my family and friends.

Set your goals, write them in the card and read them everyday. It will keep you on the track. Soon you will be amazed by your achievements. Best of luck. God bless you.

Is Health Food Really Junk Food in Disguise?

2009-02-11T14:10:00.000-08:00

Walk into any health food store, grocery store, or mass merchandiser store and you'll surely find a vast assortment of healthy nutritional bars somewhere in the store. They claim to pack a nutritional punch and give you the necessary nutrition and nutrients you need when you are on the go. But is it really that good for you? I say 'NO!' Especially if you stop to read the ingredients in some of these.

Now let's look at one of the more popular bars. A bar that is aimed mostly at women who are trying to eat healthy and trying to lose weight. The Slim Fast Bar. You don't have to go very far in the ingredients list to see that this bar is junk! The first ingredient is High Fructose Corn Syrup! Next was a special syrup, which is just a way to cover up that they put more sugar in it. Add in some partially hydrogenated oils which equals one thing-Trans Fats, and then just a bunch of artificial flavoring and sweeteners. Seriously, I would rather you ate a Snickers Bar. At least then you'll be getting peanuts, skim milk, and egg whites as well as the junk. And it will taste a lot better.

Then, of course, are the bogus claims by the manufacturers: 'The Slim Fast Plan cuts your calories and helps provide the nutrition you need to stay healthy while you lose weight and keep it off...' I'm sorry, nobody needs High Fructose Corn Syrup, Trans Fats, and Artificial Sweeteners in their diet. Period!

And this is just one company. I'm telling you right now, read the nutrition labels and ingredients list. Even if you think it is healthy, or it says it is healthy. 95% of Food and Supplement Companies have one thing in mind-To make more money! They will cut costs however they can, even if it means deceiving you and putting crap in their products.

So how do you tell what nutritional bars are good for you? Well here are some general guidelines to follow if you are looking for a Meal Replacement Bar or one for weight loss:

- Needs to have at least 175 calories. Anything less won't be enough calories to get you to your next meal.

- Should offer 4 grams of protein or more. Protein mixed with carbs and fat are better at filling you up and giving the satisfied feeling. Plus protein should be eaten every 2-4 hours regardless.

- Minimum of 3 grams of fiber. Fiber also has the tendency to make you feel full longer. You should be shooting for 24-36 grams daily. -Stay away from ingredients like High Fructose Corn Syrup, added sugar, partially hydrogenated oils (Trans Fats), and added artificial sweeteners.

- Limit saturated fats. No more than 4 grams per bar.

Hope this helps. Organic ingredients are also a big plus in a bar. Health food stores like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods offer some excellent choices. Some good bars out there are Lara bars, Prograde Cravers, Perfect 10, and Organic Food Bars.

Delicious Ways to Cut Calories

2009-02-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

I recently joined Weight Watchers and their plan has made me see where I was going wrong in my diet. Each day I learn new ways of cooking and eating that trim calories from the foods that I eat so that they will fit into the plan. I'm one who loves all the fattening foods and a lot of the non-fat things don't work for me... like non-fat sour cream, non-fat cheese, non-fat mayonnaise or non-fat salad dressing... yuck! I have found a lot of things that work though, so there's hope! Here's some tips I've learned along the way:

1. Trim some calories from fried chicken by taking the skin off first. Yes, it's still fried chicken, but at least you've taken off some calories. Also be sure to drain the chicken well on a paper towel when finished frying; this will also help with the calories. Lastly, eat just one piece. Portion control can be a powerful way to control how much you eat, resulting in calorie reduction. If you eat it slowly and savor it, it will be a much more satisfying and enjoyable experience than gulping down multiple pieces. This applies to any food.

2. If you're an ice cream junky like me, you can still have it! Just buy ice cream bars instead of ice cream that you can dish up yourself. This way you limit how much you have. For me, it's impossible to dish up only a little ice cream, but an ice cream bar treat is great and I know it's only 1 serving. A word of warning: be sure to look at the calories of the bars before buying... some premium bars have more calories than your big dish of ice cream.

3. Another tip for ice cream junkies is to switch to popsicles, juice bars, sherbet or Italian ice. These all have a lot less calories than ice cream but are delicious alternatives.

4. One last tip for ice cream junkies. A delicious treat that is very similar to an ice cream sandwich, but has VERY LITTLE calories: Take 2 chocolate graham crackers and sandwich 2-3 Tbsp. fat-free whipped topping between them... these are so good, you won't believe there's hardly any calories! By the way, I mentioned earlier that a lof of the fat-free stuff I don't like... well, fat-free whipped topping is one that I do like.

Can you tell my biggest downfall was ice cream?

5. Here's a recipe for a delicious salad dressing that's almost fat-free:

Chinese Salad Dressing

1/4 cup lemon juice, canned or bottled
2 Tbsp soy sauce
4 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp table salt
1 tsp sesame oil
2 Tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 tsp black pepper

Mix all ingredients together unitl sugar dissolves. Delicious!

6. Think of all the healthy things you like and play up on them. For me, I love Sushi, Shrimp, Stir-Fries, Salsas, Fruit, Soups, Roasted Vegetables, Salads and Smoothies. You can also get your family members' opinions on the healthy foods they like so there's more options. I made a list of these items to keep my memory fresh, and when I make meals, I try to focus on these types of meals.

7. If you like French Fries, I have found a delicious alternative! Simply slice potatoes, put them on a baking sheet sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, spray the potatoes with the spray, season and cook at 400F for 40-60 minutes, until lightly browned & crisp. These are better than the ones drenched in oil... honestly! I tried this same method with sweet potatoes and they are even better, in my opinion; my family prefers the regular potatoes.

8. If you like chips, switch to pretzels. To me, pretzels are just okay, but when I dip them in mustard or salsa, they are much better!

9. Of course there are times when we want to splurge and have an indulgent meal or treat. A great way to do this is to cut back, exercise and eat well for a week or so, then have your indulgence, but still try not to go way overboard. Eat slowly and savor it, this way you will know when you are satisfied, rather than eating through it.

A huge factor in eating well and losing weight is planning, regardless of what plan you are on. If you take time each day to plan out a strategy to keep your eating within limits and create more activity in your life, you will be much more successful than if you don't take time to think about it. If you don't plan, it is too easy to fall into the 'I'll-Start-Tommorrow' trap and eat too much.

I'm on a Diet, But Please Order the Pizza!

2009-02-11T14:07:00.000-08:00

In today's world of never ending diets and numerous angles for reducing calories and fat content there is one thing that seems to stand out in spite of all of our "good diet" intentions. We want to lose weight but we do NOT want to give up one of our most beloved and favorite foods... "The Pizza Pie".

Yes, that's right...we want a great diet plan but the thought of giving up our unquenchable desire for the infamous pizza pie is simply out of the question. We'll try "whole wheat pizza", "sun dried tomato pizza", "grilled chicken pizza" you name it, just don't leave out that last descriptive word "pizza."

A "watered down" form of pizza is better than no pizza at all! Any form of pizza that suggests we're cutting corners with calories and making headway on reducing fat but still enjoying the taste of one of our favorite foods and past times, well that's an idea worth addressing.

The fact is pizza is one of the most beloved foods in the world. Here's a few facts to ponder that suggest our love for pizza:

• Americans eat approximately 100 acres of pizza EACH day, that's about 350 slices per second.

• According to a recent Gallup Poll, 82 percent of children ages 3 and 11 prefer PIZZA over chicken nuggets, hot dogs, macaroni & cheese, and hamburgers.

• Gourmet toppings are gaining ground in some areas of the country such as chicken, oysters, crayfish, dandelions, sprouts, eggplant, Cajun shrimp, artichoke hearts and tuna. More recent trends include game meats such as venison, duck and Canadian bacon.

• Pizza is a $30+ BILLION per year industry. There are approximately 69,000 pizzerias in the United States. Approximately 3 BILLION pizzas are sold in the U.S. each year. (Source: Blumenfeld and Associates)

Let's face it, we want an effective diet but we don't want to give up the pizza pie that we've grown to love and adore.If we could only incorporate healthy stuff like whole wheat", some form of "gluten free" flour, or even organic tomatoes that will do just fine.

Whatever we need to do but the last thing we want to do is ELIMINATE the pizza pie.

I guess there will never be a substitute for pizza. It doesn't matter if we're dieting or not. As a matter of fact, you can't have a good and workable diet plan unless you have a diet pizza associated with the plan.

If there's a way to "squeeze in" a "workable" pizza then I might just take a look at your diet plan. If there's no way to do that...well... the diet plan might be a bit to strict for me. Give us all breaks... find a way to work in the taste we've all grown tolove and crave. Find a way to create a PIZZA that will fit into our diet plans, because if you don't, invariably, we're going to wait until no one's looking and we're going to pick up that telephone and order the pie of all pies.

Better yet, we'll crank up the oven and make our own. We want the taste that can't be substituted or denied. We want the one and only pie that can be customized to our taste buds and our taste buds alone. We want our favorite pizza pie and we want it now!

A Quick Guide on the Top Ab Workout Routines

2009-02-11T14:05:00.000-08:00

If you have been dreaming of a tighter belly, then check out these three of the top ab workout routines to give you good ideas in planning out your belly slimming program.

Top 3 Routine Workout

Have a 5-day ab workout for 6 weeks, followed by a week's break, then resume. The first week must be for the development of your abdominal region. Concentrate on your top abdominal region and obliques each for 2 days and your lower abdominal region for 1 day. Start off your first day with leg lift crunches and repeat them as many as you could with an interval of 2 minutes after each repetition.

Workout your obliques on the second day by doing a series of 3 oblique crunches sets as you lie on your side, plus another 3 sets of the standing oblique raises plus weights. The third day is your rest period. On the fourth day, start working out your lower abs by having reverse crunches and leg lifts each in three sets. Repeat routines from the first and second days and then rest for a day.

Top 2 Routine Workout

This is a 3-day routine per week plan. Days 2 and 4 in the routine mentioned above are omitted so you need to work out your obliques and upper abdominal muscles on the first and fifth days and lower abdominal muscles on the third day. This has the same procedure as well but you will have to combine the oblique exercise and upper abdomen exercise for days one and five.

Top 1 Routine Workout

This has a fuller routine than the previous 2 workouts. You need to do these for 4 days a week in 6 weeks and then have a break for a full week. On the first day, have a 20-minute jog followed by several oblique crunches. Have a break for a minute and perform the twists with weights or a medicine ball while sitting. Do these sets of exercise 3 times and then slow down with a jog for 5 minutes.

On the second day, jog for 45 minutes then do three sets of the reverse crunch or as many as you can with a break in between. Execute another 3 sets of leg lifts with breaks as well. Day 3 is your rest day but you need a light jog for ten minutes. On day four, commence with a jog for 30 minutes and do 3 sets of the standing oblique raises with weights. Perform a series of sets of sit-ups with oblique crunches as you lie on your side. Have a break then do the set again twice.

Finally, take precaution in following these top ab workout routines according to your physical condition.

4 Reasons Why People Start Looking For Stomach Shaping Workouts

2009-02-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

An effective stomach shaping workout can do you a great deal of good. This is such an established medical advice, there should be no doubts at all. And yet, if you are like many typical office workers, the only exercise you get is walking to and from your car to your office or garage. Go jogging, play tennis, work out at the gym? Don't be ridiculous! Not with an 80-hour work week. And yet, some people get off their butts to start working out again, after years of inactivity. Why them and not others? When interviewed, here are the four most common reasons they give.

1. Simple Physical Activities Get Harder

For those people passing the 40-year mark, they start noticing that simple physical activities begin to leave them breathless. The 20-yard dash from the entrance of their office building to the closing lift door leaves them panting and sweating. Bending down to pick up the pen they dropped suddenly requires effort. When they see their reflection, the first thing they see is their belly. The first time they notice this, it's quite a shocker. It gets them looking for good abdominal work out tips to get themselves back into shape.

2. They Start Turning Into The Blob

Especially for singles, when they realize that they couldn't get any dates for the past 3 months, this is a major downer. They step into a bar... and people of the opposite sex no longer check them out. Other men glance at them with smug looks or rude sniggers. For many, the urge to regain both their handsome looks and social life is a strong driving force to get them searching for great ab workouts.

3. The Doctor Said "Exercise... Or Else!"

One thing that almost always sent someone hunting for workout routines for their abs is the result from their latest medical screening. As long as the results are all in the black, it is all too easy to ignore their pants getting tighter. But once their doctor starts warning them that their flab has left them with high blood glucose readings, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and a higher health insurance premium, not being able to see their feet when they look down starts taking on greater significance. No one wants to die young, and this desire often proves to be a strong motive to start working out on stomach shaping routines to get rid of the unnecessary and ugly flab around the belly.

4. Their Wives Start Nagging Them About Their Weight

Family men often start following abdominal work out tips when their wives start complaining that they are starting to look FAT. To keep their wives from worrying about them (or to stop the incessant nagging - take your pick), they start making time to work out three or four times every week. They may have to wake up a half-hour earlier everyday, or sleep a half-hour later, but they dig into some simple workouts to trim the flab around their middle.

Regardless of why people start on their stomach shaping workouts, they end up more healthy and more alert. They live longer, and remain vigorous even to the end of their lives. Whether they do it for themselves or for their loved ones, they often find the workouts worth it.

Fun Ways to Do Aerobics

2009-02-11T14:01:00.000-08:00

Aerobic exercise uses exercise to increase the heart rate for an extended period of time. It has been around for a while and the routines can sometimes become a little boring. To keep aerobics exciting here are some fun ways to do aerobics that will keep you exercising. Try varying your aerobics by adding some of these routines into your workout schedule.

Treadmills - A treadmill is an excellent way to walk or run. The treadmill provides a workout that can be done indoors in any weather and allows you to progress at your own pace. Treadmills are popular and are available at all gyms and fitness clubs. Many are now made for home use so you can fit your routine into your daily schedule. Some include a heart rate monitor to help you reach and maintain your peak performance.

Steps - Steps are useful tools to incorporate into a workout. It makes the workout a little less tedious because you are actually stepping up and down at times, adding some fun to the routine. They are available at most aerobic and fitness centers and are also sold for home use. You can get them in one or two-step sizes to suit your needs. If you have stairs in your house these can also work for this exercise/

Pole - The pole is a relatively new tool for workouts. A pole is used to help make certain moves. It can be added to a regular aerobic workout to make it more interesting and challenging.

Hip-Hop Dance - Hip-Hop is a great way to aerobically move to the music. The rhythm of most hip-hop music is easily adapted to aerobic movements and together the routine can be a phenomenal way to have a fun aerobic exercise.

Water Aerobics - Water aerobics are a fun way to break up the monotony of a regular aerobic routine. Water exercise is much easier on the joints and movements are slower and more regulated, making the exercise more fluid. This is great if you are new to aerobic exercise regime or have physical limitations. It's also a great way to exercise outside in the pool or when you are on vacation. You'll get some sun while you exercise!

Jump Rope - Jumping rope is great aerobic exercise. It can be easily done at home using an inexpensive jump rope. You can create your own routine to music to make it an uplifting experience. This is a good exercise to do as you can set your own pace. Start off gently and work up to your desired speed and time frame.

Bicycling / Spinning - Done outdoors, bicycling is a wonderful way to incorporate the outdoors into an aerobic routine. You can ride as far as you want to, starting slowly and working your way up as your strength and stamina increase. Spinning is done inside and is an entertaining way to combine cycling in a class setting.

Tae Bo / Kickboxing - For something different try a tae bo or kickboxing class. This aerobic activity is a fun alternative to the usual aerobic classes. There are plenty of videos available as well so you can practice your tae bo routine at home as well as at the gym.

Cardio Vs Interval Training

2009-02-11T13:59:00.000-08:00

One of the very first lessons I have learned during my fat loss journey is that I hated doing cardio. When I say cardio, I'm thinking about spending 40 long minutes (or longer) on the treadmill while going at a steady pace. While there are other forms of cardiovascular or aerobic activity to choose from such as yoga, step class, tae bo, stairmaster, etc., most gyms are equipped with a lot of treadmills because running is one of the most popular cardio exercises available. Running on the treadmill is also one of the most effective ways to burn fat.

By definition, cardio is basically any activity which forces your heart to work harder than it usually does. So, if you're used to sitting on your desk all day then, even brisk walking can make your heart work harder than it normally does. Yes, you can benefit from brisk walking or just plain, old running but, chances are, your progress will be painfully slow.

The New Form of Cardio

At some point in your life, you've probably heard that running at your target heart rate at a steady pace is the best way to burn fat - let's call this traditional cardio (click here for target heart rate definition). While this may be true, it is time consuming. boring, and inefficient. I know because I've been there and I say this about traditional cardio because there is a much faster, more efficient way to challenge your heart.

One of the latest trends in the fitness industry today which delivers great results, is hight intensity interval training (HIIT). Interval what? Ok, if this is a new concept for you, stick with me.

Interval training is a form of cardio (if you can even call it that) wherein a person goes from a period of low intensity to low intensity cardio in a matter of minutes. For example, I did my HIIT at the gym yesterday on the treadmill for 14 minutes with this:

Warm-up for 1 minute at 3.5 miles per hour (mph)
Warm-up for another 1 minute at 6 mph
Run for 1 minute at 8 mph and 1.5% incline
Run for a minute and a half (90 seconds) at 4 mph and 1.5% incline
I repeat steps 1-4 for 5-6 times then cool down

This is exactly what I did and believe me I was sweating buckets at the end of my HIIT. One of the things that makes HIIT more effective than traditional cardio is the high intensity. Running or performing cardio at a higher intensity challenges your heart and body to exert more effort which results in more calories burned during your cardio session at a shorter period of time. Basically, I would burn the same amount of calories if I ran at 6 mph for 40 minutes but HIIT cuts that time by about 70%! What's more important after my session is that my body kept working harder to restore my system back to its "normal" state even after I was done running. This results to even more calories burned after I leave the gym even though I'm just sitting down watching t.v. or sleeping.

Note: I have to warn you to be conservative when doing HIIT for the first time. Try starting with a comfortable speed for your high intensity and work your way up as you build your endurance.

Jump Roping is a Great Form of Cardio Exercise

2009-02-11T13:57:00.000-08:00

I don't jump rope anymore. But I should start again. Just like anything else that is good for you. Building a habit is key to long term success. Jumping rope is no different.

What I remembered about jumping rope that it was extremely hard. The first time I started, I couldn't jump rope for more then 30 seconds before I was tired.

Jump roping seems like such an easy exercise. When you were little you saw little girls do it. Maybe you use to do it yourself. But boy is it hard when you get older.

Girls tends to have more stamina then guys. Maybe jump roping proves it. Not saying guys don't jump rope, but when you think about jump roping and kids, you think of it as a girl activity.

Jump roping is really hard core. If anyone comes to mind when I think about jump roping, then it has to be Rocky Balboa. When he was training for his fights, he use to jump rope like crazy.

I never realized how difficult it was. I thought I would be able to jump rope for 30 minutes straight with no problem. I couldn't even last 30 seconds!

Other then the fact that I was always messing up at first, being exhausted was one of the key things I noticed.

I kept at however, because Jump Roping is one of the few activities that you can do in the house, that's similar to jogging and you don't have to buy a machine. I believe I got the exercise jump rope at WalMart for $3.

So I made a commitment to jump rope every morning. For 5 minutes. That might not sound like a lot, but if you are a beginner jump roper, it could seem like an eternity.

It's not the exhaustion, it your legs. You will use legs in your muscle that you never knew you had. It well hurt.

But, after a week of doing this. Jump roping for 5 minutes every morning got much easier. Your legs doesn't hurt as much.

I later pushed myself to 6 minutes.

In the morning jump roping really helps raise your heart rate and get you started for the day. It's a great inexpensive cardio exercise you can do literally 1 min after you wake up. It'll help you get out of bet in the morning and ready to start your day.

P90X nutrition guide

2009-02-07T16:57:00.000-08:00

This package includes everything, and I mean everything you need for the P90X Extreme Home Fitness 13 DVD set. If you purchased the P90X Extreme Home Fitness 13 DVD set, and do not have the Fitness workbook/workout guide, calendar, or nutrition guide, this is for you. You will receive all guides plus bonus guides and an excel program that will guide you through all the workouts, when and what days to do them, and give you all the nutritional guidelines to help you be successful with P90X.

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P90X Workouts Guides, Nutrition plan, Calendar and extra:
- 3 Phase Full Nutrition Guide 139 Pages
- P90X Calendars
- Complete Fitness Guide 117 Pages
- P90X Fit Test
- P90X Powerstand Guide Revised
- P90X Schedule
- P90X Beachbody Diet Guide
- P90X Nutrition Guide Summary
- P90X Hybrid Workout Guide
- P90X Workout Manager - Classic & All Rotations

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Main programs to record and track your process in Spreadsheet Format
- P90X Workout Managerment
- P90X Nutrition Plan
- Daily Supplement Schedule
- P90X Market List
- Calories & Nutritional Comparison of Food

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- P90X Worksheet
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- 7 Super Supplements
- Protein Shake Recipes
- Chicken Recipes
- Fish Recipes
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3 Vegetables That Lower High Blood Pressure

2009-02-06T16:42:00.000-08:00

When your doctor tells you that you have a high blood pressure or hypertension, it signals that your health is at risk. Hypertension exposes you to heart diseases and stroke. These two belong to the top three conditions that kill many Americans annually.

How Do You Know That You Have High Blood Pressure?

A simple blood pressure test done by a doctor or nurse will determine if you have high blood pressure or not. Or if you have a device to check it at home, you can do that too. A reading below 120/80 is considered the normal blood pressure.

Once your blood pressure hovers over the 120/80-139/89 level, then you have what is called prehypertension. You don't have high blood pressure yet, but unless you take steps to lower it, then your chances of having it will increase in the future.

Finally, if you reach the 140/90 level and above, then you already have high blood pressure. You should now take serious steps to normalize it. Otherwise, you run the risk of suffering from heart diseases and stroke, as we mentioned earlier.

How Can You Lower Your Blood Pressure?

Changing your diet is one of the first steps you should take to lower your blood pressure. This is especially the case if you are accustomed to eating foods that are high in fat and cholesterol since these two things contribute a lot to having hypertension.

There's a diet plan called DASH which stands for "Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension". This diet plan involves eating foods that are low in saturated and total fat, and cholesterol. Also, people under this plan are required to eat whole grains, fish, poultry, fruits and vegetables, among other healthy foods.

Eating Fruits and Vegetables to Combat Hypertension

Eating fruits and vegetables is one of the most effective ways of dealing with high blood pressure. Why? Because these foods are effective in flushing cholesterol out of your system. Aside from that, they do not contain cholesterol. Thus, you don't add more cholesterol to your body when you eat fruits and vegetables.

Vegetables that are Effective Vs. Hypertension

If you're looking for vegetables that should be a part of your diet, then refer to the list below.

Spinach - this green leafy vegetable is a rich source of fiber which helps flush out cholesterol from your blood stream. High cholesterol levels contribute to hypertension because it clogs your arteries, making your heart work harder to pump more blood through these narrow arteries.
Sweet potatoes - are also a good source of fiber so always have them on your menu to counter hypertension.
Tomatoes - are rich in potassium. Although the relation between potassium and lower blood pressure is only suggested and not completely established, potassium-rich foods such as tomatoes are still widely considered to prevent hypertension and stroke.

How You can Fight Hypertension Effectively

Of course, it isn't enough that you just eat healthy in the hopes that it will lower your blood pressure. You should also combine it with regular exercise and healthy living to maximize your chances of putting up a better fight against hypertension.

Best Aerobic Exercise For Weight Loss

2009-02-06T16:37:00.000-08:00

Aerobic exercise is one of the keys to significant and lasting weight loss. If you are knew to exercise, you should start out slow with a low impact cardio machine such as the stationary bike or the rowing machine.

If you are a little more advanced in your exercise and want to jump start your weight loss you should choose aerobic exercises that burn more calories in a shorter amount of time. Taking a high intensity cardio class is a great way to burn a lot of calories (700+ an hour) and to stay motivated. Joining a local gym will be one of the best ways to find classes and machines that will help you to lose weight quickly.

Running on the treadmill or moving on the elliptical machine are both proven ways to burn a lot of calories in a shorter amount of time. The elliptical machine is low impact and will get your heart rate up while helping you to shed pounds.

If you do not have access to a gym membership consider renting or buying exercise DVDs that are similar to group gym classes such as kick boxing or high impact dancing. You could also invest in a great pair of running shoes and take to running on your road or at your local park. You could also run on a track at your local public school or run up and down stairs for the best cardio workout.

To see results you will need to exercise at least four to five times a week doing at least 45 minutes of cardio. If you want quicker results consider adding strength training to your regime. You should start seeing results in about four weeks.

If you want to see results faster than four weeks you will need to alter your diet as well. Simply exercising is half the battle for permanent and fast weight loss. Many diet programs only set you up to fail, that is why as a personal trainer I recommend a program that is easy and fail proof such as The Day Off Diet.

The 30 Day Shred With Jillian Michaels of the Biggest Loser

2009-02-06T16:35:00.000-08:00

I first learned about the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred DVD when I did an online search for a Biggest Loser exercise program. I have been trying to lose weight all my life, but over the past year and a half, I have managed to lose 65 pounds - mostly from cutting back portions. I still have about 120 pounds that I want to lose, so I decided that I wanted to start an intense exercise program similar to what the contestants on The Biggest Loser are given. I figured, what better way to do that than to buy a DVD created by the very trainers from the show?

I found several weight loss forums in which members discussed the 30 Day Shred DVD that Jillian has out. After hearing how Jillian managed to "kick their butts" within the first few minutes of the exercise, I decided this would be a pretty good DVD to start with. I got it the next day.

The 30 Day Shred DVD has 3 increasingly difficult levels. Beginners are of course encouraged to start with Level One and keep doing it until you feel you are ready to move on to Level Two, and then on to Level Three after that.

Level One begins with a brief warmup, then gets right into the exercise. It is a fast paced 27 minute routine with no rests in between. The focus is on circuit training with a rotation of 3 minutes of strength training, 2 minutes of cardio and 1 minute of abdominal exercise.

Jillian starts you off with pushups, then moves on to lunges. The cardio for Level One includes jumping jacks, jump rope and punches.

I have only done Level One of the 30 Day Shred so far, but I can tell you that you will sweat, you will groan, and you will definitely feel that you got your money's worth with this DVD. There is little doubt that if you stick with this exercise program for 30 days or more, you will be in the best shape of your life! Oh, and be prepared to feel "the burn" the next day after your first workout! No pain, no gain!

7 Signs You Are Doing Too Much Cardio Exercise

2009-02-06T16:34:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for folks to be hitting the cardio confessionals...

But too many folks are doing too much cardio exercise and expecting to lose weight with cardio, even though cardio is over-rated for weight loss. In fact, you might suffer from the Dark Side of Cardio if you do too much cardio exercise.

So today while I did my short, burst exercise style workout, I watched all those folks on the cardio machines and I noticed they go through some interesting rituals during their workouts.

This got me thinking, and I came up with "The 7 Signs You Are Doing Too Much Cardio".

#1 - You have to spend 5 minutes before your workout flipping through all the magazines in the gym to find one you haven't read before.

#2 - You know the other cardio addicts on the machines beside you (that you talk to everyday) better than you know your own friends.

#3 - You know exactly how many calories you burn per minute on every machine in the gym. (And you use that information to justify every calorie you eat.)

#4 - You simply hate doing it and dread your workouts more than a trip to the dentist.

#5 - The only thing you are losing is precious time - and not belly fat.

#6 - You go to the gym to watch your favorite television shows while doing cardio.

#7 - You're getting overuse injuries from repetitive motion because you keep doing the same activity over and over again everyday.

Listen, cardio is not the be all and end all of exercise for fat loss.

Most of your fat burning results are going to come from your nutrition when starting a weight loss program. So focus on whole, natural foods, and avoid foods that come from a bag or a box. If it's been modified in any way, you don't need it.

Once you've taken care of your nutrition, look for workouts that you enjoy that allow you to build strength, mobility, and fitness. Just don't do the same cardio workout over and over again everyday.

Beware the 7 signs you are doing too much cardio!

5 Cardio Workouts to Burn Fat

2009-02-06T16:31:00.000-08:00

Everything you know about cardio is about to change. You're about to discover the truth about 5 cardio workouts to burn fat and lose more belly fat in less workout time. Let's start by looking at the old, outdated way of burning fat.

Cardio Workout #1 to burn fat: Slow cardio

The first cardio workout to burn fat is "Old School Cardio". For years, we've been fooled into thinking that we need long, slow, boring cardio workouts to burn fat. However, too many men and women slave away on the cardio machines for 40, 60 and even 90 minutes per workout without burning fat. How is this possible?

To be honest, I don't know exactly why it doesn't work, but two recent research studies found that women doing 40-60 minutes of low intensity cardio, 3-5 days per week, did not lose belly fat after at least 12 weeks of cardio. Based on those results, slow cardio is not one of the best cardio workouts to burn fat.

In fact, in one of those studies, researchers tested high-intensity cardio, and found that high-intensity cardio was able to burn fat.

Cardio Workout #2 to burn fat: High-intensity cardio

The only problem is that high-intensity cardio requires you to work as hard as you can until you burn at least 400 calories in a workout. That will take you at least 40 minutes - so while this is one of the better cardio workouts to burn fat, it's still not the best.

A better approach is to use interval training. This is the third cardio workout to burn fat.

Cardio Workout #3 to burn fat: Interval training cardio

In a study from Australia that compared 2 cardio workouts to burn fat, subjects doing 3 interval training workouts per week lost a significant amount of belly fat while another group doing 40 minutes of slow cardio per week did not burn belly fat.

So interval training is a much better workout choice for fat loss. To do interval training, you do a normal warm-up, and then you alternate between hard exercise and easy exercise, then you follow with a cool down. This routine only takes twenty minutes.

Here's a sample of the interval cardio workouts to burn fat. Do a 5 minute warm-up, and then exercise for 1 minute at a pace that is 10-20% harder than your normal cardio intensity. After that 1 minute, decrease your exercise pace all the way down to cool-down level. Repeat that hard-easy cycle 5 more times. Finish with 3 minutes of cool-down.

Cardio Workout #4 to burn fat: Tabata Interval cardio

Since interval training became popular, personal trainers have been looking for other short cardio workouts to burn fat. A study from Japan used something that is known as the "Tabata Protocol", and many trainers believe this is even better than cardio and regular intervals. The fourth cardio workout to burn fat is the Tabata Interval program.

I'm not convinced it is better than regular intervals, but it is a heck of a hard way to do a fat burning workout. After a warm-up, you 20 seconds of hard work followed by 10 seconds of recovery. Repeat that 8 times. This fat burning workout takes only 4 minutes!

Cardio Workout #5 to burn fat: Bodyweight circuit cardio

Finally, the fifth cardio workout for fat burning is bodyweight circuit training. Like intervals and the Tabata workouts, bodyweight circuit training is not really "cardio", however, these are the three better cardio workouts to burn fat.

Whatever you want to call bodyweight cardio, here's how it works.

First, you start with a quick, easy bodyweight exercise, such as Jumping Jacks.

After that, alternate between 3 lower-body and 3 upper-body bodyweight exercises, using squats, pushups, lunges, pulling exercises like rows or chinups, split squats, and total body ab exercises like mountain climbers.

Finally, finish off the 8 exercise circuit with a tough total body exercise like jumps, burpees, or running in place. Now that's fat burning cardio!

Those are 5 cardio workouts to burn fat. Only two are "traditional", but those 2 are the longest, and least effective. The shorter fat burning cardio workouts are the best way to burn belly fat fast.

Is Acai Berry Safe For Teenagers?

2009-02-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

If you are a teenager, or a concerned parent, who is considering taking Acai berry, then you might be wondering; "Is Acai berry safe for teenagers?" It is good to ask this question before taking any new type of health supplement, especially when the person taking the supplement is still growing up.

Luckily, you have nothing to fear when it comes to Acai berries. Asking if Acai berries are safe for teenagers is just like asking if apples, bananas, or grapes are safe for teenagers. Acai is a natural fruit, just like those mentioned above, so it is completely safe for anyone to take. It could be possible that someone could have an allergy to Acai, but that is no more likely than someone being allergic to an apple.

Many teens are guzzling sodas, coffee, and energy drinks at an alarming rate. While these drinks can give teens a temporary boost of energy, they are known to stunt growth and promote obesity. Acai berry juice can be a great tasting and healthy replacement for these drinks. In fact, most people report that the energy they get from Acai blows both coffee and Redbull out of the water. There is no better way for a student to start off a day of school than with a glass of Acai juice.

One of the benefits that is most relevant for teens is its high Omega fatty acid content. Teenage years are full of mental ups and downs, and these essential fatty acids help improve mood and fight depression. They also help improve general brain function (they make you smarter) which will help a teen do better in school and get into a better college.

Acai is one of the most powerful antioxidant foods on earth, which will help with many teens' #1 problem: Acne. Antioxidants help repair damaged skin and hair, and are one of the keys to fight off acne.

Acai is an all natural health supplement that can help teens reach their full potential as adults. Since it's a fruit you do not need to worry if the Acai berry is safe for teenagers.

Under Eye Bags - 5 Tips to Eliminate Them Forever

2009-02-03T11:59:00.000-08:00

Do you have unsightly under eye bags? They make you look much older than your years, but you can get rid of them permanently, without surgery. Discover five tips in this article which will help.

In addition to making you look as if you're totally exhausted, dark marks and bags under your eyes are an indication that your health isn't up to par. Yes, you can get rid of your bags temporarily with surgery, but taking care of your health will remove the bags for good.

Here's how to take care of yourself so that your under eye bags gradually disappear.

1. Eat for Your Skin -- B Vitamins Help You Glow

Few people get sufficient B vitamins in their daily diet. One of the most important B vitamins when it comes to your skin is biotin, which is essential for the health of your skin, hair and nails. Eat more bananas and oatmeal to increase the quantity of biotin, so your body can repair skin damage.

Many creams are available which contain B vitamins: they add a glow to your skin, and they're good for you too -- but do remember that the best source of B vitamins is a good diet.

2. Less Alcohol, More Water

Alcohol dries out your skin. A night on the town and not enough water: result, instant under eye bags.

Water is vital to help your body to function efficiently, and it's easy to forget to drink plenty of water when you're out and about. Drink plenty of water so that toxins are flushed from your system: a bruised look under your eyes is a sign that your kidneys and liver need help.

3. Get More Sleep -- There's a Reason They Call It Beauty Sleep

Lack of sleep can also cause discoloring and bags under your eyes. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night. Your body conducts needed repairs as you sleep. If you don't get enough rest, more than your appearance will suffer.

4. Miracle Cure -- Green Tea Bags

Good food and plenty of rest will erase your under eye bags. But what if you want an instant fix? Here's one which works: green tea bags.

Save your green tea bags in the fridge. Before a night out, lie down for ten minutes with the cooled tea bags as a compress.

5. Is It Your Cosmetics? Go Fragrance-Free

The labels on many cosmetics read like a chemical factory's inventory. Who knows what those chemicals do to your skin, not to mention your health?

When you have under eye bags, your motto for cosmetics and skin care products should be: chemical and fragrance-free. Use natural skin care products until your bags have vanished!

Detoxing the Liver - Does Lemon Juice Detox the Liver?

2009-02-03T11:53:00.000-08:00

Did you know that a seemingly ordinary substance, lemon juice can help to detox your liver? The liver is one of the most essential organs in the body. Liver failure is often fatal. It is well known that drinking excessive alcohol will damage the liver. But do you know why this is so? The liver is the organ that cleanses the body of toxins. Having a well functioning liver means that potentially harmful substances can pass out of your body. So when we think about detoxifying the body, we have to think about the liver, since this organ is what actually does the detoxifying.

Lemons are not often thought of as a fruit, or even a food. Most people would not sit down and eat a lemon they way they might an orange or apple --too bitter. We tend to think of lemons as a flavoring, maybe something to add as a garnish on top of a salad, or mixed alcoholic beverage. Or perhaps lemonade, with enough sugar to offset the bitterness. Lemons, however, are one of the most beneficial fruits, or foods of any sort, that nature has provided for us.

One interesting fact about lemons is that, although they taste very acidic, they actually have an alkalizing effect on the body. When we speak of food being acidic or alkaline, the important thing is how they effect the body after digestion. Lemons, along with some other apparently acidic substances, such as apple cider vinegar, has an alkalizing effect, which is usually beneficial in terms of detoxing the body. I say "usually," because most people's diets are overly acidic and it helps to balance this out with alkaline foods. In the rare cases of people whose diets are overly alkaline, consuming additional lemons would not be beneficial. But, unless you have an extremely spartan health food diet, such as eating strictly raw foods, vegan or fruitarian, your diet is most likely overly acidic.

There are several ways to consume lemon, given that you probably don't want to eat whole lemons. You can drink lemon teas. There are prepared herbal teas with lemon, but it's better to supplement this by squeezing fresh lemon into it or adding lemon juice. You can similarly add lemon to water. Drinking more water is another fundamental principle of detoxing, so if you drink, say eight glasses of water per day and squeeze a slice of lemon into each one, you'll be multiplying the detoxifying effect. You can also squeeze fresh lemon, or lemon juice into homemade salad dressings.

Lemon juice, or fresh lemon, can indeed help detox the liver and the whole body. Don't underestimate the power of this under-appreciated fruit.

Flush Fat With These 4 Detox Drinks

2009-02-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

When people gain fat, they don't get more fat cells, but the existing fat cells get bigger. This can happen because of hormonal imbalances, lack of exercise and foods that can make your body store fat instead of flushing it.

Fat cells can store "excess energy," like excess nutrients from overeating. They can even store toxic compounds, like organochlorines, from pesticides along with other chemicals, which are not easily broken down by your body.

If you want to lose fat, or the fatty look, you must do two things. First you must shrink the fat cells. The second is to keep your lymphatic system in good working order.

Your lymphatic system is a type of circulatory system. It transports white blood cells through your body while transporting waste to organs of detoxification or elimination.

Your lymphatic system must work efficiently so that toxins leave your body, not just change locations. These are some of the beverages that can help.

Grapefruit Juice - Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice is one of the best cleanser's for your lymphatic system. Grapefruits contain high amounts of Vitamin C, which helps your body naturally detoxify.

In addition, grapefruits are high in phytonutrients called limonoids - in particular limonin. Limonin is a compound that helps promote the formation of glutathione-S-transferase, a detoxifying enzyme. This enzyme causes the liver to render toxins to be easily excreted from the body. These compounds are also work as powerful antioxidants.

Grapefruit juice can increase the activity of liver enzymes. In fact, it helps with Phase I and Phase II detoxification. This is important since some foods only help the body with Phase I detoxification. If unbalanced and left incomplete, these half-neutralized toxins can be more hazardous to your body.

Grapefruit juice will help your liver detoxify and clear harmful carcinogens from your body. Not only is this a healthy preventive measure, but when your liver is working the way it should, it is more efficient at burning fat - a job it may put on hold if it is over burdened.

Cranberry Juice - Pure cranberry juice is a natural fat flushing drink. It must be 100% pure cranberry juice without anything added. (Check the label, you might be surprised.)

Cranberry juice contains high levels of organic acids. When taken on a regular basis, these help the body dissolve fatty deposits.

Cranberry juice has been found in research to inhibit certain strains of bacteria from sticking to red blood cells or mouth cells which can cause them to linger in the body. In addition, it helps block a certain bacteria from sticking to cells causing urinary tract infections. This raises the body's ability to flush the bacteria out of the system more easily.

Green tea - Green tea is one of the most famous fat flushing drinks. Like cranberry juice, green tea is extremely high in antioxidants. It has been known to help many dieters lose belly fat more quickly when taken 2-3 times a day. In 1997, researchers found that a component of green tea, an antioxidant called EGCG, is very powerful at limiting the negative side effects of a fatty diet and even smoking.

The Lemon Flush - Make this drink with spring water, juice from ¼ lemon, 1 Table spoon of grade B maple syrup and a dash of cayenne pepper. Make the water as hot as you can drink it and add the ingredients. Sip this drink 1-6 times per day to help flush fat and other toxins from your body.

Grade B Maple Syrup is loaded with vitamins and minerals to help maintain blood sugar during a fast or diet. Lemon juice helps break up hardened material in the joints and muscles, helps clear the kidneys and dissolves toxins and congestion all throughout your body and lymphatic system. Some herbalists claim that cayenne pepper is the most powerful herb in the world. It helps your intestines move out waste, speeds up metabolism, helps build heart tissue, and has been used to treat diseases of the circulatory system.

Consuming certain beverages can help your body perform the two jobs of fat loss more efficiently. These drinks can help your body remove waste from the fat cells and keep your lymphatic system clear and ready to transport toxins out of your system. They can help turn any weight loss program into a fat flush program.

P90X Extreme Home Fitness Guides

2009-02-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

Buy Now for $9.95 and receive guides and movies in seconds! (Immediate Delivery!!) Files will be emailed immediately NO WAITING!!!

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What you will receive (All in PDF form)

FREE BONUS BELOW!!! P90X Plus Videos(480p High Quality Videos) and more

Interval X Plus

P90X Interval X Plus Sample

Interval training is the ultimate fat-burning challenge, and here Tony has designed an extraordinarily effective roller coaster of cardio moves that will carry you from low (or recovery phases) to medium to high intensity in a rhythm that will make you want to jump around like Rocky Balboa when you’re done. As an added bonus, these moves will strengthen and sculpt your lower body for more power and performance.

(Runtime 40 minutes) (480p Quality)

Kenpo Cardio Plus

P90X Kenpo Cardio X Plus Sample

This concentrated cardiovascular routine is inspired by the American Kenpo self-defense discipline. Get ready for a fast-paced all-out session that will improve your stamina, balance, and agility. Experience new combinations like “The Gladiator” for more fun than should be good for you. You’ll look forward to this dynamic sweat fest in your P90X rotation.

(Runtime 40 minutes) (480p Quality)

Upper Plus

P90X Upper Plus Sample

You won’t just max out one or two muscle groups in this intense workout—your whole upper body is coming along for the ride: arms, back, chest, shoulders, delts, biceps, triceps, you name it! No boredom or repetition here; just a full-throttle battle for upper-body supremacy! (Runtime 45 minutes) (480p Quality)

Total Body Plus

P90X Total Body Plus Sample

Every body part into the pool! Nothing is spared as Tony takes your entire body through sculpting, strengthening, and just plain shredding sets. Each muscle group will take turns recuperating while you blast another until you’ve got nothing left but quivering muscles.

(Runtime 45 minutes) (480p Quality)

P90X Abs/Core Plus Sample

Abs/Core Plus

This unique counterpart to Ab Ripper X sculpts your core to condition your entire midsection while delivering flat abs you can bounce a quarter off of. You’ll make the most of maxing your lower abdominals with the hanging moves—it’s not all on the floor in this routine where you switch it up.

(Runtime 20 minutes) (480p Quality)

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How to Achieve That 6 Pack Stomach - Easy Tips That Will Transform Your Midsection

2009-01-27T09:44:00.000-08:00

Ask any woman what the most attractive part of the male body is and most of the time, they'll tell you its well-defined abdominals, or a 6 pack stomach as they're more commonly referred to. These muscles are generally regarded as a symbol of a fit and healthy person and as we all know, women are attracted to men with confidence and a strong self-esteem. Well-defined abs help make such confidence possible.

So is it any wonder that in any gym across the world, you see men of all ages doing crunches, sit-ups, and leg raises in the hope of obtaining six-pack abs? However, unfortunately most men will never achieve the ultimate goal of seeing their abs. But why?

One reason is fat. A layer of fat "covers" the stomach in all of us, but more so in men. Men tend to hold any weight gain in their bellies while women seem to hold fat in their buttocks and thighs. So for a man to ever have the chance of seeing a 6 pack stomach, he must lose that layer of fat. Doing thousands of crunches and sit-ups will certainly help, but if you aren't eating a diet for building muscle and losing fat, then you'll ultimately fail in your goal.

To lose fat effectively and permanently in your midsection, you must include:

1. a calorie restricted diet for building muscle;
2. frequent cardio workouts;
3. strength training with weights;

to build muscle so you can effectively increase your metabolism in order to lose weight and burn fat naturally. However, take note that your weight loss goals will not be achieved if any one of the three elements is done incorrectly.

Please don't waste your time with any fad diets, magic "potions", weight loss pills, detox tablets, or electronic stimulator gadgets that we all see on infomercials. All are pie-in-the-sky and in the end, scams. Spend your hard-earned money elsewhere and on plans that involve real, consistent work that in the end will have you accomplishing your goals.

Tummy Exercises to Reduce Tummy Fat!

2009-01-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

Here are some great tummy exercises to reduce tummy fat and finally allow you to have a flat belly that is firm and sexy. If you want to lose belly fat, use the information I'm about to share with you. Reducing your waist size is easier than you think.

Tummy Exercises to Reduce Tummy Fat

1. Overhead medicine ball throws

This is great for both men and women. I hope women who go to the gym at least give this one a try before saying it's not for them. What you do is take a medicine ball and lift it over your head with both hands on it. Then from that overhead position, throw it against a wall as hard as you can. Stand about 8 feet away from the wall. Pick up the ball and repeat for a total of 3-5 minutes non-stop.

You can send me an email telling me how much you love this exercise after you're done. Smile.

2. At home, use a weighted hula hoop

I have to tell you. I kinda sound like a broken record with this exercise. I tell my clients over and over to do this. Some of them just can't get over the fact that they think it's a kid's toy. IT'S NOT. Stop that thinking.

This is a tool for weight loss and sculpting your belly. The keys here are that you get a hula hoop that is weighted because it twirls around slower... thus it's easier to keep from falling to the ground too often. You can find a weighted hula hoop either online or at Wal-Mart. They cost about $15-20. Quite a good investment for something that'll last you years.

Specifics... just do 10-15 minutes a day with the hula hoop. How and when you do this, doesn't matter. Just have those 10-15 minutes done by the time you go to bed.

These are 2 really good tummy exercises to reduce tummy fat for those who are sick of wasting their time with crunches and situps.

Junk Food Equals Junk Skin

2009-01-27T09:40:00.000-08:00

Junk food is not the be all and end all when it comes to taste. It is food that has been processed to the extreme and is now an American way of life. It is a common term used for any food item that is perceived to be unhealthy and has low or poor nutritional value.

Generally, a junk food is given a very attractive appearance by adding food additives and colors to enhance flavor, texture, appearance, and increasing long self life. Of course, it is also readily available at restaurant chains across the country in the form of French fries, chicken nuggets, shakes, soda, etc.

However there is an organization called "Parents Against Junk Food" which is a nonprofit organization with a simple mission: Stop the Sale of Junk Food in America's Schools.

It is widely believed that junk food does not contain the essential fatty acids that the body requires to keep its largest organ, the skin, healthy. It is recommended that food supplements in the form of vitamins should be taken daily if the habit cannot be broken.

The body will also be lacking in proteins, fiber and other nutrients required for a healthy diet, and the consumption of products considered junk food has been associated with many health problems including obesity, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and dental cavities.

Similarly, breakfast cereals are often regarded as healthy but may have high levels of sugar, salt and fat. The offspring of rats fed fatty, processed food had high levels of fat in their bloodstream and around major organs even after adolescence.

Nutritionists, doctors, and other health advocates often work to educate people about junk food, encouraging them to eat well balanced diets which contain a high proportion of healthy foods. These professionals almost unanimously hold the view that there are no good foods and bad foods, only good diets and bad diets.

The number of obese or overweight children in Britain aged between two and 15 has risen to about 30% in recent years. Changing your diet and taking exercise is a step in the right direction and as you replace fat with muscle, your clothes will become looser and your body firmer, but your weight may not change (muscle weighs more). In fact, the needle on the weight scale might not turn at all, but the heads of friends probably will. To lose weight, you've got to junk that junk food.

We all know that junk food is cheap and easy compared to quality raw materials (fresh veggies, organic meat, milk, fruit). For better or for worse (mostly worse), junk food is now available all over the world.

Apart for obesity, the other huge effect that bad eating habits bring on is skin rashes, eczema and psoriasis. It is reported that 25% of children under the age of five now suffer from eczema compared with less than 3% 50 years ago before junk food was so prevalent.

To combat these skin problems one of the latest discoveries is that the natural oil found in crocodile fat heals most forms of eczema in children within a few weeks. However is it not easy to get hold of and few pharmacies stock it.

The answer of course is to change your diet as junk food equals junk skin.

10 Healthy Eating Slogans - Seeing Through the Hype

2009-01-27T09:37:00.000-08:00

Healthy eating has become the ideal standard to meet. Both for you and those that want you to buy their products.

The public wants to eat healthy. Manufacturers are aware of this. So an effective advertising campaign would have their product aligned with healthy eating.

Let's take a look at some of the slogans.

10 Healthy Eating Slogans Deciphered

1. Made with 100% fruit juice

Fruit juice is healthy, so this slogan can be tricky. The statement says 'made with', which basically means it contains 100% fruit juice. This statement is not claiming to be '100 percent fruit juice'. So would 1 tablespoon of fruit juice still make this a truthful statement.

Yes. But, this product would have other ingredients like water and sugar and more accurately would be called a 'drink'.

2. Made without preservatives

I heard this pitch on a Coca Cola commercial. I had to laugh out loud. Surely, we're not to believe soda pop is healthy.

Soft drinks are made with phosphoric acid. This highly acidic base means that preservatives aren't needed.

The acidic base also causes a physiological response. The body will do its best to maintain a pH balance. So the acid must be neutralized.

Just because a product has no preservatives does not warrant a healthy eating 'crown'.

3. No artificial colors or flavors

This is good. Just make sure that this isn't the only good thing you can say about the product.

An example of this would be flour. Here the color is stripped to give the white color. Also lost are nutrients and fiber.

4. No trans fat

At first glance this looks good. But check the label to be sure that hydrogenated oil was not used.

Trans fat is a by product of the hydrogenation process. To remove it does not then make the oil healthy. It is just not quite as harmful.

5. No sugar added

Please, when you see this on a label, look further. Fruit juice can be used to sweeten. But, you don't want artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup.

6. Flavor enhanced

Ok. So what was used to make this happen. MSG is a flavor enhancer that is very common in processed foods and is widely used in restaurants. Just remember that wholesome foods do not need the flavor enhanced.

7. Fortified with...

Many products have been fortified for years. Iodine is added to salt. Vitamins are added to flour and boxed cereals.

Yet, now this practice has spread to be more of an advertising gimmick than healthy eating. You can even get fortified water.

These products don't use natural source vitamins. That would be cost prohibitive. The best way to get your nutrients is through a balanced diet.

8. Enhanced with...

This would be replacing nutrients that had been lost during processing.

Ok, right there is a good sign that you could make the product healthier yourself.

When processing is so heavy so as to loose nutrients, replacing a select few leaves out trace nutrients that were also lost.

9. Made with whole wheat

100% whole wheat is your preferred wheat choice. However, the statement doesn't claim to be 100%. So other ingredients could have been used.

Check the label to be sure no flour or wheat flour is listed. In this case you would be not getting the value of a 100% whole wheat product. Wheat flour is another name for flour and is not whole wheat flour.

10. Kid approved

Great, kids like it. Now, read the label. My kids would have eaten almost anything that was fun and sweet. Do the ingredients pass your scrutiny?

Healthy eating requires a bit of an 'eagle eye'. You verify the marketing claims against what is printed on the label. With a bit of practice, you too, will find slogans that bring a chuckle to your day.

Acai Berry - Where to Buy Acai Berries

2009-01-27T09:35:00.000-08:00

The hip new taste in Rio health stores, juice bars and hot spots is Acai (ah-sigh-EE) berry juice and smoothies. But where can you buy Acai berry? Unfortunately this health giving berry perishes very quickly after it has been harvested. It is a small, deep purple colored berry that is mostly seed, that grows on a special palm tree found only in the Amazon rainforests.

Acai powder is quite difficult to find because it is so perishable but there are a few Network marketing companies do manufacture this. It is also possible to find Acai Berry powder or frozen Acai at up-market health food stores, but you should try to find a naturally extracted product. Acai berry products are also found at online stores and many of these products are from reputable sources, but also make sure that the product you order is from a natural source.

Acai has been researched and found to be one of the top ten foodstuffs available in the world today. It is a complete solution to nutrition, digestive and cardio vascular health. Athletes make regular use of Acai berry as it provides a complete solution for energy and is well know to be beneficial for muscle contraction and regeneration.

As this Acai is considered to be one of the Super-foods of the year, where to buy Acai berry should not be a problem in the near future. It is good for virtually everything that Kale is, and tastes a whole lot better. It contains naturally occurring Omega three, six and nine and I packed full of minerals vitamins and nutrients. It is also rich in protein and contains everything to make it a "complete" meal. This makes it perfect as a meal replacement and a fantastic supplement for weight loss and dieting.

Turning an Addictive Snack into a Complete Meal

2009-01-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

The proliferation of fast food restaurants, convenience stores, and vending machines in virtually every corner of residential America has created a serious nutritional problem. “Snacking” – a harmless-sounding verb that deceptively implies something unobjectionable – has reached addictive proportions.

The manifestation of this addiction goes beyond mere obesity something that is widely considered to be a severe public health crisis. Even among non-obese Americans, researchers are identifying a wave of general malnutrition that is sweeping across the country due to addictive snacking habits.

This addiction to snacking is enhanced, ironically, by the rather confusing range of so-called diet-friendly foods on the market. Some foods that are dubbed “lo-carb” diet-foods are actually causing weight gain among some dieters. In fact, some “lo-carb” labeled foods are comprised of little more than unhealthy saturated fats and even worse, they have an incredibly high calorie count.

Furthermore, many self-professed “lo-carb” foods are dangerously devoid of essential proteins and vitamins. The resulting nutritional shortage often compels dieters – even subconsciously -- to crave stimulating foods of all kinds. These cravings often include what is closest at hand: snacks and other nutritionally bankrupt junk foods.

Snacking is indeed a problem that America must begin resolving within the first few years of this 21 century. A real, practical, tangible solution is required now more than ever before, because education and awareness are not enough.

This does not imply that education and awareness aren’t vital allies in the fight against snacking and unhealthy eating. Education and awareness have played an important role thus far, and have helped create a number of healthier eating options. Indeed, the “lighter fare” choices in restaurants, and the occasional granola bar in a vending machine that is otherwise loaded with chocolate bars, are worthy gains that education and awareness have inspired. Yet education and awareness are, in and of themselves, evidently not halting this epidemic addiction to snacking quickly enough.

Adding to the problem is that so many of these junk food products are packaged in a way that implies some semblance of nutritional value. Terms like “on the go” or “instant meal” or “for busy lifestyles” adorn many packages for foods that are virtually nothing more than glorified snack foods foods that are absolutely not providing the vitamins and proteins that a healthy diet requires.

Therefore, a new approach to solving this problem is required one that stems from the momentum gained by awareness and education, but delivers a real, tangible product in the hands of Americans who want to regain control over what makes them move.

Attempts have been made, especially in the last decade, to provide Americans with this tangible solution. Nutritional energy bars now line the counter shelves of many convenience stores, and instead of energy infusion via a chocolate bar, more people are opting for these seemingly “healthier”. This is a positive step but it is not enough.

Products such as these mentioned above, while somewhat better than candy bars, are not rich in essential proteins or fortified by essential vitamins. So while ”snackers” are better off after eating one of these nutritional bars than they would be if they consumed a bag of potato chips, they are not as well off as they think they are or that the nutritional bar packaging implies that they will be. These snackers still face a shortage of protein and essential vitamins a shortage that is not going to be filled unless additional nutrition is provided.

It is within this paradigm – the search for a complete “tangible” nutrition source that is rich in protein and essential vitamins – that forward-thinking companies are engineering smarter products. These nutritionally advanced solutions are carbohydrate-free, fat-free, and low calorie complete meal sources for snackers of all types, including those that are dieting.

There are, admittedly, only a very small number of companies and products that are delivering nutritionally intelligent products into the hands of snackers. However, the fact that these progressive companies – and their innovative products – exist is a positive sign, and one that just may eventually be the turning point in America’s war against poor eating habits.

Protein and Endurance Sports

2009-01-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

Endurance Sports are like music concerts. They start at a low key, setting a steady rhythm and culminate into a crescendo that enthralls the spectator and the athlete. And not unlike an orchestra, endurance demands a flawless performance from every organ, testing the limits of their resilience. As each system, conducted by the human will, endures a pace bordering on fatigue, the athlete begins to hear music from the heart. What’s often neglected, and considered unnecessary, in endurance sports is a high-protein diet that can expand the aerobic capacity and power the performance.

To sustain effort and delay fatigue, the body needs an adequate supply of oxygen and fuel without accumulating waste products, acids or heat. Greater the intensity of the workout, greater is the efficiency required. The capacity of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the fuel stores in the muscle, the hepatic and renal support systems must all expand exponentially to perform in endurance sports. If any of these prerequisites are not met, the internal milieu becomes uncomfortable. Metabolism slows down, to allow excretion of wastes, acids and heat, as fatigue sets in. The aerobic stress of endurance sports provides the necessary stimulus for growth and development. The body is ready to build. All that is needed are the building blocks-the Proteins.

Given an adequate and appropriate supply of proteins, the body remains in a state of positive nitrogen balance. Sufficient protein consumption, along with a high-energy diet also influences the carbohydrate and fat metabolism. In the well-fed state, with sufficient physical activity, dietary proteins stimulate the simultaneous release of the growth hormone and insulin. The combined hormonal influence redirects dietary carbohydrate and fat to the aerobic muscle fibers where they are stored as fuels for exhausting workouts. The consequent increase in muscle stores of glycogen and lipid allows sustained activity for a longer time. With enough proteins, the lean body mass, stamina and performance increase throughout the training program.

Proteins and amino acids also directly supply between 1 to 6 % of the energy needs during a workout. The proportion of energy derived from proteins increases with the intensity of the exercise. Given their role in bodybuilding, proteins are too important to be used as fuel and attempts should be made to minimize this percentage. Studies by Bowtell and Tarnopolsky, report that a high-energy (carbohydrate) diet, when combined with an ample protein intake and hydration, has a protein sparing effect under aerobic conditions. However, when the protein intake is inadequate, the high-energy diet fails to protect proteins from being used up as fuel. Therefore, endurance athletes need to ensure high levels of protein intake not only to supply amino acids for growth, but also to make sure that the amino acids don’t get burnt up as fuel.

Endurance athletes need proteins but do they need protein supplements? The answer, till recently, was negative for recreational and modest athletes. Protein supplements were advised only for professional athletes and for sportspersons with a diet deficient in proteins. However, these recommendations, based on a parameter called ‘nitrogen balance’, have often been questioned. Young and Bier propose that there exists a subtle state of protein deficiency, called the ‘accommodative’ state, where an inadequate protein intake is masked by the breakdown of body proteins. Measurements based on nitrogen balance do not take the accommodating state into account and are therefore are not accurate enough to calculate protein requirements. Mark Tarnopolsky, in a recent review on Protein Requirements in Endurance Athletes, also raises similar questions.

Epidemiological studies, by McKenzie and others, also suggest that the dietary protein intake of up to 20% of athletes may be below levels recommended for sedentary individuals. Then there is always the ambiguous quality and absorb ability of a dietary protein. Just eating proteins in diet does not ensure that they will provide all the essential amino acids in adequate quantities. Given the vital role that proteins play in the metabolic and physiological response to aerobic stresses of endurance sports, and the uncertainties regarding dietary protein intake, a protein supplement like Profect®, can go a long way in improving performance.

Adequate training and a Profect diet will take endurance to its limits, to levels where aerobic metabolism stimulates the release of enkephalins, the human equivalent of opium. These enkephalins produce the natural high that is often referred to as the ‘flow’. As long as metabolism remains aerobic, the mind is flooded with enkephalins and the systems function in harmony. In ‘flow’ capacity seems endless and fatigue non-existent. Profect, the perfect protein supplement can do that for you.

High Blood Pressure? Natural Alternatives Can Help!

2009-01-27T09:21:00.000-08:00

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a dangerous condition that can lead= to stroke, enlarged heart, congestive heart failure, kidney and eye damage, atherosclerosis hardening of the arteries, and premature death.

According to a recent report released in The New England Journal of Medicine of 16,000 adults surveyed over the age of 24, nearly 30 percent had blood pressure of at least 140/90 and more than one-third of them were unaware of their condition.

Blood pressure refers to the force of the bloodstream against the walls of the arteries as they deliver blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Normal, healthy blood pressure ranges from about 110/80 to as high as 140/90. The higher number refers to systolic pressure, which is the hearts contractions. The second number, the diastolic pressure, measures the rests between heartbeats. Here are the categories to consider when evaluating blood pressure:

Normal - Less than 140/90
Borderline - 141/91 to 159/94
High - 160/95 or more

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Although there are still questions about the roots of essential hypertension, many researchers name two culprits: The typical American diet and lifestyle factors. Following are 9 major factors that can contribute to this potentially deadly condition:

1. High-fat, high-sodium diet . . . Interestingly, vegetarians who normally eat a low-fat, low-sodium diet have a profoundly lower incidence of hypertension than non-vegetarians.

2. Fat imbalance . . . Too much saturated fat in the diet. We need more essential fatty acids to help clear the system of fat solids.

3. Nutritional deficiencies . . . People whose diets are low in potassium, magnesium, calcium and vitamin C are at greater risk of hypertension.

4. Obesity . . . High blood pressure is almost six times more common among overweight people ages 20 to 44, and twice as common in those 45 to 74

5. Smoking . . . Chronic smoking decreases blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke.

6. Alcohol . . . Heavy drinking is another indicator of high blood pressure.

7. Stress . . . In many instances, stress can be the major factor causing high blood pressure.

8. Atherosclerosis . . . A buildup of fatty deposits can narrow the blood vessels, leading to a rise in blood pressure. The increased resistance means the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the body, placing it under strain.

9. High sugar intake . . . People who had more sugar in their diet had markedly increased blood pressure.

Anti-Hypertensive Diet Guidelines

The following recommendations can help you keep your blood pressure at healthier levels:

Follow a low-fat diet.
Increase your intake of potassium, magnesium and calcium.
Reduce your intake of salt.
Restrict your consumption of refined sugars.
Exercise more often. Since excess body fat is a primary risk factor in hypertension, it is critical to maintain a healthy weight. The importance of regular exercise cannot be over-emphasized.

Essential Nutrient Intake
What you eat has a powerful influence on your blood pressure as well as almost every other aspect of your health.

For most people, the sodium/potassium ratio is more significant than sodium alone. We should be consuming about five times more potassium than sodium (5:1), but the typical American diet includes half as much potassiumas sodium (1:2).

By eating more POTASSIUM-rich foods, you can reverse the ratio and promote healthy blood pressure. Foods such as bananas, oranges, tangerines, beans, dried peas, and potatoes provide a wealth of natural potassium.

MAGNESIUM is another vital nutrient for blood pressure. It is believed that magnesium activates the bodys cellular membrane pump, which pumps sodium out and potassium into the cells. Some clinical trials have shown that magnesium supplementation reduces blood pressure. Magnesium- rich foods include nuts (especially almonds, cashews, and pecans), rice, bananas, potatoes, wheat germ, kidney and lima beans, peas, soy products, molasses, oat, bran, and fish.

CALCIUM is important. People with high blood pressure are advised to increase Calcium intake and to eat more calcium-rich foods such as nuts, salmon, sardines, low-fat dairy foods, watercress, kale, broccoli, turnip greens, collard greens, and mustard greens.

Here is a list of other nutritional supplements that can help prevent high blood pressure:

HAWTHORNE is an herb that has been shown to widen blood vessels, especially the coronary arteries.
CAYENNE reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, which can lead to hypertension.
VALERIAN has sedative activity, which has a beneficial effect on blood pressure.
VITAMIN C supplementation has exerted a valuable blood-pressure-lowering effect in people by promoting the excretion of lead, which is linked to hypertension.
COQ10 shows promise for hypertensives. Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that naturally occurs in our bodies and can be supplemented to assure adequate daily intake.
GARLIC helps reduce cholesterol as well as blood pressure.

Summary . . . The consequences of untreated high blood pressure are too serious to go untreated. By making smart choices about the foods you eat, the intake of beneficial nutritional factors and your exercise regimen, you can help control your own blood pressure.

25 Health Benefits of Cinnamon - A Miraculous Spice

2009-01-27T09:19:00.000-08:00

Cinnamon is one of the world's oldest known spices. The tree is native to Sri Lanka where it was found thousands of years ago. It is the best spice available in terms of its nutrition and health. It contains unique healthy and healing property comes from the active components in the essential oils found in its bark. Cinnamon has extremely high anti-oxidant activity due to which it has numerous health benefits. Aside from being used as a medicine by other cultures since ancient times, the health benefits may also come from eating it which can be listed as follows:

1. Lowers Cholesterol:
Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon included in a daily diet can lower cholesterol.
Also Cinnamon may significantly lower LDL "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides (fatty acids in the blood) and total cholesterol.

2. Reduces blood sugar levels and treating Type 2 Diabetes:
Several studies have shown improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control by taking as little as ½ teaspoon of cinnamon per day. Improving insulin resistance can help in weight control as well as decreasing the risk for heart disease.

3. Heart Disease:
Cinnamon strengthens the cardiovascular system thereby shielding the body from heart related disorders. It is believed that the calcium and fiber present in cinnamon provides protection against heart diseases.

Including a little cinnamon in the food helps those suffering from coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.

4. Fights Cancer :
A study released by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

Besides, the combination of calcium and fiber found in Cinnamon can help to remove bile, which prevents damage to colon cells, thus prevents colon cancer.

5. Tooth decay and mouth freshener:
Cinnamon has traditionally been used to treat toothache and fight bad breath. Small pieces of cinnamon can be chewed, or gargled with cinnamon water which serves as a good mouth freshener.

6. Cures Respiratory Problems:
Cinnamon is very useful home remedy for common or severe colds. A person suffering should take one tablespoon of honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.

Cinnamon also found to cure flu, influenza, sore throat and congestion.

7. Brain Tonic:
Cinnamon boosts the activity of the brain and hence acts as a good brain tonic. It helps in removing nervous tension and memory loss.

Also, studies have shown that smelling cinnamon may boost cognitive function, memory, performance of certain tasks and increases one's alertness and concentration.
8. Infections:
Due to its antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-parasitic and antiseptic properties, it is effective on external as well as internal infections. Cinnamon has been found to be effective in fighting vaginal yeast infections, oral yeast infections, stomach ulcers and head lice.

9. Eases menstruation cycles:
Cinnamon has also been found useful for women's health as it helps in providing relief from menstrual cramping and other feminine discomforts.

10. Birth Control:
Cinnamon also helps in natural birth control. Regular consumption of cinnamon after child birth delays menstruation and thus helps in avoiding conception.

11. Breastfeeding:
It is also believed that cinnamon aids in the secretion of breast milk.

12. Reduces Arthritis Pain:
Cinnamon spice contains anti-inflammatory compounds which can be useful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.

A study conducted at Copenhagen University, where patients were given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month

13. Digestive Tonic:
Cinnamon should be added to most recipes. Apart from adding flavor to the food, it also aids in digestion. Cinnamon is very effective for indigestion, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea and flatulence. It is very helpful in removing gas from the stomach and intestines. It also removes acidity, diarrhea and morning sickness. It is often referred to as a digestive tonic.

14. Reduces Urinary tract infections:
People who eat cinnamon on a regular basis report a lower incidence of urinary tract infections. Cinnamon is diuretic in nature and helps in secretion and discharge of urine.

15. Anti clotting Actions:
A compound found in Cinnamon called as cinnamaldehyde has been well-researched for its effects on blood platelets. [Platelets are constituents of blood that are meant to clump together under emergency circumstances (like physical injury) as a way to stop bleeding, but under normal circumstances, they can make the blood flow inadequate if they clump together too much]. The cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon helps prevent unwanted clumping of blood platelets.

16. Natural Food Preserver:
When added to food, it prevents bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

17. Headaches and migraine:
Headache due to the exposure to cold wind is readily cured by applying a thin paste of powdered cinnamon mixed in water on the temples & forehead.

18. Pimples and Blackheads:
Cinnamon helps in removing blood impurities. Therefore it is often recommended for pimples.

Also external application of paste of cinnamon powder with a few drops of fresh lemon juice over pimples & black heads would give beneficial result.

19. Thinning of the blood and improves blood circulation:
Cinnamon is a blood thinning agent which also acts to increase circulation. This blood circulation helps significantly in removing pain. Good blood circulation also ensures oxygen supply to the body cells leading to higher metabolic activity. You significantly reduce the chance of getting a heart attack by regularly consuming cinnamon.

20. Toning of tissues:
Considerable anecdotal evidence exists to suggest that cinnamon may have the ability to tone and constrict tissues in the body.

21. Muscle and joint pain relief:
Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain, as well as stiffness, is reduced or even eliminated.

22. Immune System:
Honey and cinnamon paste is good for boosting the immune system, removing regular fatigue and increasing the longevity of an individual. It is also known to have anti-aging properties.

23. Itching:
Paste of honey and cinnamon is often used to treat insect bites.

24. It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

25. Healing: Cinnamon helps in stopping bleeding. Therefore it facilitates the healing process.

Indeed, cinnamon has several health benefits as highlighted above that can be used to improve one's health and boost one's immune system. This is a great reason to keep some cinnamon around. Sprinkle it in your tea or coffee, over oatmeal or a sweet potato and, this will do wonders to your health.

[However, there's a word of warning to be taken that over dosage of cinnamon may be unwise. Also it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Also, people who have been prescribed medication to manage their blood sugar should not reduce or discontinue their dose and take cinnamon instead, especially without consulting your doctor.]

The Nutrient You Need Most

2009-01-27T09:16:00.000-08:00

It's the least expensive item in your diet. It requires no preparation whatsoever. It can even be consumed without soiling any dishes. But most people do not get enough of it. What is it? It is water. The majority of us are dehydrated most of the time and don't even realize it.

Even mild dehydration inflicts stress upon our bodies. Plus it can trigger many unpleasant health problems such as kidney problems, weight gain, fatigue, and headaches.

The thirst mechanism in adults does not work as well as in children. Once we turn twenty-one, we do not perceive thirst as well as we did at twelve. Sometimes we even confuse thirst with hunger and eat when we should be drinking water. This, of course, results in unnecessary weight gain.

And drinking more water will bring about some weight loss without doing anything else. When you are dehydrated, you do not burn calories as fast as you could, and your metabolism is sluggish. Drinking more water helps your body burn stored fat.

In addition, drinking more water prevents fatigue. Dehydration slows down your circulation and causes a drop in blood pressure. This leads to fatigue.

Water is also good for your joints. Your joints' lubricating fluid is made up primarily of water. Water is also present in the soft discs in your spine as well as in the cartilage at the end of your bones. When you keep the joints, cartilage and discs well hydrated they do a better job of absorbing shock. Well-lubricated bones slip smoothly over one another without friction. This prevents joint and back pain.

And some of the grogginess you experience in the morning is due to lack of water. You are much better off to reach for a glass of water than a cup of coffee. Your brain is 4/5ths water. When the water levels drop in your body, it affects such tasks as processing information in your short-term memory and focusing on your work at hand. Your brain cells can't perform as efficiently if water levels are lowered even by a small amount.

Water can also prevent some diseases because it carries toxins away from your body.

Although for many years, nutritionists, researchers and doctors have recommended that people drink eight 8 ounce glasses or sixty-four ounces of water a day, scientists have now found that doesn't work for everyone.

The amount of water that you need to drink depends on your weight, your activity level and the weather. You need more water in hot weather because you perspire more. Active people also perspire more than sedentary people. So the new recommendations are that people drink half of their body weight in ounces. In other words, if a person weighs a hundred and fifty pounds, then they should drink seventy-five ounces of water a day. If it is unusually hot or they are very active, they would need more.

Milk, juice and caffeine-free teas count as part of your daily water quota. Caffeinated beverages do not as they are diuretics and increase the output of water from your body. Neither should alcoholic drinks be included in your daily liquid intake.

When determining the amount of water you drink, pay attention to the size of your glasses. Some glasses hold twelve ounces while others only hold six.

Sometimes we skimp on water because it is not conveniently available. Form the habit of carrying it with you, in the car or in your briefcase. That way you will always have something to sip on.

And even if it is a little extra trouble, your body will thank you.

Does Acai Berry Really Work?

2009-01-26T12:53:00.000-08:00

Acai is one of the hottest products in the health and nutrition industry, and it is very difficult to go through a day where you do not see an ad online for one of many Acai products on the market. These ads promise amazing health benefits from the Acai fruit such as; anti-aging, cancer prevention, a boost of energy, and mood improvement. If true this would make Acai an amazing fruit...but is it too good to be true?

Being a long time Acai user I can emphatically say "YES!" Acai juice has made a dramatic difference in my life. It's the first thing I have to drink every morning and it gives me enough energy to accomplish all of my goals each day.

I used to be a huge Redbull drinker, but always hated the inevitable crash I would get just a few hours after drinking one. When you drink Acai berry juice you get that same boost of energy without the caffeine crash.

Since I prefer to get my vitamins from as many natural sources as possible, I consider the Acai berry my natural multivitamin. It contains high levels of essential fatty acids, is rich in amino acids (19 amino acids to be exact), and is a good source for vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and E. On top of that it is a great source of fiber and contains calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, and zinc.

The high antioxidant content helps fight off cancer cells and helps you grow stronger, healthier, hair and will give you smooth, glowing, skin. The Acai berry also helps boost your immune system so you will get sick with the common cold and flu less often.

So, if you are asking "Does Acai berry really work?" the answer is a resounding "YES". The one thing you must watch out for is the free trial offers of Acai berry pills that are going around. These are scams that are selling you very low quality Acai powder, while charging you $88 each month.

Lose Stomach Fat!

2009-01-26T12:52:00.000-08:00

When it comes to losing stomach fat it is best to have a strategy. I say this because the stomach can be an extremely tricky place to shed unwanted pounds. The stomach tends to be one of the last places the weight comes off when you're burning calories through exercise. In this article I will show you how to lose overall body weight and a way to target your belly fat specifically.

If you are looking to lose stomach fat, improving your diet is a good place to start. Not all of us are health nuts that can handle eating tofu and rice cakes all day. I know I can't, but we could definitely cut out some of the junk meals and snacks that we all enjoy. This does not mean we cannot indulge in the foods we love, it just means we have them in moderation. Did you know that people with a higher metabolism burn fat more efficiently? What if I told you that you can increase your metabolism by eating smaller portions every 2-3 hours rather than gorging yourselves with three large traditional meals? Doing this keeps a constant flow of nutrients to our bodies thus making it easier to burn fat.

Exercise would be another thing to focus on when trying to lose stomach fat. The results may not be immediate, but the weight will eventually come off. I recommend everyone should get at least 30 minutes of good aerobic exercise, 4-5 times per week. This could be as simple as a jog, a bike ride, or even a brisk walk. In order to burn fat we must burn the daily calories we take in plus the calories stored in our fat cells.

If you have a specific area that you would like to target such as stomach fat, I've found that body wraps can be a very efficient solution. What is nice about body wraps are that you can target a certain area where you are having trouble achieving your desired results. The applications only take about one hour and they are quickly becoming very popular within the weight loss community. These body wraps not only break down the fat in your cells but also aid in detoxifying your system which is utterly essential when trying to lose stomach fat.

If you can find a way to incorporate these items we've discussed into a healthy diet regimen, you will surely lose that unwanted stomach fat in no time flat.

Effective Weight Loss

2009-01-26T12:47:00.000-08:00

With so many weight loss scams out there it seems impossible to find an effective weight loss treatment. I have helped many people attain maximum weight loss results with a simple routine. If you are seeking an easy effective weight loss treatment look no further.

Changing Our Eating Habits

Watch what you eat. Try to eat smaller portions of healthier food five to six times per day rather than gorging on the three traditional meals that we are accustomed to. By changing our eating habits this will in turn raise our metabolism by keeping a constant flow of nutrients to our systems. This makes it simpler for our bodies to burn this unwanted fat. Steering away from sweets and replacing them with fruits and vegetables is a great start. Effective weight loss starts with a healthy diet.

Daily Exercise

I can't tell you how important exercise is. To lose weight our bodies need to burn calories stored in our fat cell's. Exercising burns calories which in turns makes us lose weight. It can be as simple as going for a brisk walk, jog, or swim. Anything you can do to get your heart rate up is great. Strength training is very useful in our quest to burn fat. Weight lifting can keep burning calories hours after the actual training session.

Detoxifying Our System

Detoxifying our systems is one of the key steps in losing weight that most of us are unaware of. Everyday our bodies are exposed to harmful toxins. We are exposed to these toxins by the air we breathe, foods we eat, and activities we partake in. Drinking plenty of water helps flush our systems. Some other great ways to rid our bodies of these toxins are body wraps and colon cleansers. Cleansing our systems properly is essential for effective weight loss.

Effective weight loss results can be attained by implementing the steps we've discussed into our lives. You will be amazed at how much better you will look and feel in no time.

Lose Pounds - 2 Simple and Cheap Ways That I Was Able to Lose Pounds, All 47 of Them

2009-01-26T12:46:00.001-08:00

eople are getting busier no matter how old you are and who you are. You can even see a 5 years old kid will have a schedule for tuition's, leaning music instruments, swimming classes in some countries, while some adults will be drowning in their jobs to make ends meet. Connected to this matter, fast food restaurants will be exactly blissful in doing their business. People tend to settle their meals by consuming fast food to save time. Let's us see some points that might make you draw back from fast food and junk food.

The first issue that we definitely cannot put it aside is obesity. A burger in fast food restaurant basically contains more than 1000Kj of calories, while that's exceeding half of our body needs for a day! I won't believe that you will just have a burger in you right hand without a cup of vanilla coke in your left hand. Where do you think these extra calories will go inside your body? They will change to become fats in your abdomen and that's what you usually can see down the street there are uncountable fast food lovers with a fat-bellied. Well, you might love that if it's not on your body.

Obesity not only makes you dare not to stand in front of a mirror, it's not just simply an eyesore to the public as well. In fact, obesity is the major cause for some chronic diseases such as high cholesterol, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and many other types of cancers. This explains why the age group of people in getting chronic diseases is showing wider range nowadays. Who wants to go on long term medications and run in and out to the hospital forever? In this case, you always have the choice to choose the way you want.

Not to mention that our brain is the organ in affecting how we think and move. Fast food and junk food are very low in nutrients; instead they are full with colorings, flavors and preservatives. You won't want to know how the unhealthy ingredients could lead to some severe mental disorders. Researches have shown that junk food might cause dyslexia, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and worse is autism. An individual's mood and attention are highly influenced by the food taken, which means it will affect your concentration in school. For the parents out there, you won't want your children to be called as stupid in school, don't you?

Does that mean you can't have fast food and junk food at all? It is not necessary so. You just need to reduce the amount and frequency of having them in your diet. To begin with, you could bring your home-cooked food to your school or workplace. Of course, bacon, sausages and canned foods should not be your choices. Try some fresh foods and vegetables. You still can have your favorite fast food not too often; with the condition you drink a lot of water and exercise regularly.

Fast Food & Junk Food Effects

2009-01-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

People are getting busier no matter how old you are and who you are. You can even see a 5 years old kid will have a schedule for tuition's, leaning music instruments, swimming classes in some countries, while some adults will be drowning in their jobs to make ends meet. Connected to this matter, fast food restaurants will be exactly blissful in doing their business. People tend to settle their meals by consuming fast food to save time. Let's us see some points that might make you draw back from fast food and junk food.

How Good Is Your Health?

2009-01-26T12:40:00.000-08:00

It is a question we must ask ourselves continually if we want to live a healthy life. Your health is your most prized possession. Without good health your whole life suffers.

When was the last time you really thought about your health? Last week last month or maybe never it is something we must consider. When it comes to our health we takes a lot of things for granted. We take better care of our cars than we do our own bodies. That car is replaceable your body is not.

It is not enough just to eat good foods and exercise anymore. They are important, but clearly not the whole equation. How many stories have we heard of athletes dying suddenly? Athletes are supposed to be the epitome of good health!

Our bodies are bombarded daily with innumerable microbes and toxins that continually try to destroy our health. We continue to hear news reports of some virus that cannot be killed with antibiotics. Question: what are we to do? Answer: boost our immune systems.

Our day-to-day survival depends on the state of our immune systems. Poor nutrition, stress, exposure to toxins etc., all hurt immune function. New research strongly suggests that undetected microbes can live in the body for years causing everything from heart disease to obesity.

In 1949, while conducting research on tuberculosis, Dr. H. Sherwood Lawrence discovered a means of “transferring” an immune system response from a healthy person to a person who is weak or infected. These “transfer factors” (the term coined by Dr. Sherwood) use white blood cell extracts as transporters for positive immune responses.

Dr. Lawrence’s discovery of transfer factor science has been hailed as “one of the most important medical breakthroughs of the past half century.” So, why have few people heard about it? In 1950, antibiotics were introduced and pharmacology gained new prominence in battling disease, triumphing in both the popular media and the scientific communities.

Researchers have continued to test and explore Lawrence’s discovery. 4Life Research participates in this ongoing scientific research, the result of which is the 4Life Research patent of its Transfer Factor product and process.

In conclusion, it is very evident that good eating habits and exercise is not enough if we plan to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We must continually boost our immune systems to enjoy a long and healthy life.

The Truth About Red Wine and Heart Disease

2009-01-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

Red Wine, Heart Disease, Hungry Sharks and Knights in Shining Armor

What is so special about wine? What is it that makes it potentially more protective against coronary heart disease, and perhaps other diseases, that other forms of alcohol?

In recent years, scientists have concluded without doubt that many human diseases such as heart disease, cancer and the aging process is caused or stimulated by a ravenous group of chemicals called free radicals, that act like hungry sharks. These highly charged little villains prowl the body and attack healthy cell membranes through a process that is called oxidation. In this scenario, there is however a knight in shining armor that jumps to the rescue and purges these ever hungry little killers. The name of our crusader is antioxidants.

Without getting too technical, the oxidation process in our bodies is crucial for health, without it, for instance, we would not be able to extract energy from our food. But if there are too many free radicals in our bodies this can be harmful.

Our body has its own defenses against free radicals, in the form of enzymes that are able to turn the hungry little sharks into harmless water. However, sometimes our body’s natural defense mechanisms can’t cope. Other times, external events can cause huge increases of free radicals within our bodies, such as x-rays, cigarette smoke and exposure to toxic substances. At times, this surge of free radicals can swamp our defenses and illnesses such as radiation sickness may take place.

So what does oxidation and free radicals have to do with heart disease?

Low density lipoproteins, commonly know as “bad” LDL, can penetrate and gather against the inner walls of our arteries, under certain conditions, forming fatty streaks and plaque. Taken alone, LDL particles aren’t so dangerous it seems, however, when attacked by free radicals they turn into dangerous and somewhat aggressive cells, capable of actually penetrating and harming the smooth inner walls of our arteries. This process is called oxidation. Oxidized LDL is known to be the culprit in stimulating atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke.

Antioxidants, as the name suggests (anti-oxidants) can help stop the oxidation process, which are the results of free radicals doing their stuff. Most antioxidant research has been carried out on vitamins (A, E, beta carotene) but quite a lot of work has also been done on the healthy benefits of red wine. While most research on red wine has been done in relation to coronary heart disease, it seems that the benefits of wine don’t stop there.

Red wine and Coronary Heart Disease

Red wine contains a wide range of flavanoids; these are the chemicals that give the wine its particular taste and character, making one different from another. Many of these flavanoids act like antioxidants. Perhaps the forerunner of wine research was carried out by a certain Serge Renaud, who discovered the French Paradox, which suggested that wine was the decisive factor in protecting the people in southern France from their very high fat diets and ultimately coronary heart disease. Even if these people do eat large quantities of high fat cheese, pâté, and salami they have some of the lowest rates of heart disease in the world.

Another study, statistical rather than practical, by a Professor Grey of the University of Bern in Switzerland focused on the low, medium and high coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality figures of the World Health Organization.

What did he find? Well from among the high mortality areas were Finland and Scotland, the middle areas included Ireland, and the low CHD areas included Spain, Italy and France. He then compared heart attack rates with antioxidant levels in blood samples taken from men living in those areas.

Vitamin E and Heart Disease

What he found was very interesting, the results showed that high antioxidant levels, in particular vitamin E, coincided with low death rates of heart disease. Moreover, his results showed that vitamin E levels were 94% more accurate in predicting CHD rates than were cholesterol levels or blood pressure figures! Apart from diet, the high CHD regions drink very little, if any wine, whereas the low regions traditionally accompany their meals most days with wine.

It certainly seems strange that two much studied cities; Glasgow in Scotland and Toulouse in France show many similarities and yet many differences. The inhabitants of both cities eat tremendous amounts of high fat foods, traditionally take little exercise and drink alcohol. The surprising difference is that while the people of Glasgow have one of the highest rates of CHD in the world, the fortunate people of Toulouse have one of the lowest. Traditionally beer and spirits are the preferred drinks in Glasgow, while the folks in Toulouse drink red wine.

It has also been suggested that drinking in moderation together with meals is beneficial, while binge drinking at bars in the evening is harmful. It seems the southern Europeans don’t drink for the alcohol buzz, but just as a pleasant accompaniment to their meals.

At first the large heart institutions such as the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association ignored both antioxidants and frowned upon wine. While it is clear that it could be potentially dangerous for a physician to recommend his patients start drinking alcohol, it is also strange that they pretended for so many years to ignore the evidence. Well, now even if they don’t promote the taking of vitamin pills; antioxidants and free radicals are now recognized. However, according to the AHA “There is no scientific proof that drinking wine or any other alcoholic beverage can replace conventional measures. No direct comparison trials have been done to determine the specific effect of wine or other alcohol on the risk of developing heart disease or stroke. Just ask yourself who would pay for such studies. Clinical Trials have the purpose of showing one thing to be better than another, or whether a certain substance is beneficial to health. The costs of clinical trials is so high that only the pharmaceutical industry have the financial clout to invest in them – invest is the correct word. What a surprise.

Lower Your Cholesterol Level - The Difference Between Good Cholesterol and Bad Cholesterol

2009-01-26T12:35:00.000-08:00

We all nowadays know the importance of trying to reduce cholesterol and many of us actively take steps to achieve a lower cholesterol level in our blood. I am frequently asked the question: "what is the difference between good cholesterol and bad cholesterol?"

So what is HDL cholesterol? (the good cholesterol) and what is ldl cholesterol? (the bad cholesterol). Read on and find out. Cholesterol circulates in our blood attached to a protein called a lipoprotein. There are two basic types of lipoprotein. High density lipoprotein (HDL) or low density lipoprotein (LDL). HDL is usually labeled as "good cholesterol" because the molecule is mostly protein and does not carry a high quantity of free fat along with it.

LDL on the other hand is a molecule that only has a small amount of protein and for the most part is made of of freely available and very easily dissolved cholesterol fat. LDL is often referred to as "bad cholesterol."

If you have a lot of good cholesterol or HDL in your system then your heart will be quite well protected from the effects of fat. If you have a lot of LDL - or bad cholesterol - then you will be at greater risk of heart attack or stroke. This information has now been shown to be correct in countless medical studies throughout the world.

If you are having a cholesterol check or cholesterol blood test then your doctor will look at your blood test result and check the level of the Total Cholesterol count. He or she will then examine the count for the level of the good cholesterol or HDL. The ratio of the total cholesterol divided by the HDL level is thought to be a reflection of the "true cholesterol level" in your blood and as such is a good predictor of future heart attack or stroke problems.

For example - a total cholesterol count of 6.0 and an HDL count of 1.5 will give a ratio of 4.0. This is a healthy level and will usually indicate good cardiovascular health. A total count of 6.0 and an HDL count of 0.5 will give a ratio of 12.0: very bad news indeed from the point of view of stroke and heart attack risk.

(Note - these are UK values for typical results - US values will be different but the ratios will be the same: the UK and the US use different units to measure cholesterol levels.)

If you have a high cholesterol then get focused and take steps to change your lifestyle now. If you don't know what your cholesterol level is then make plans to speak to your doctor about whether you need it checked or not.

Running for Success

2009-01-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

Though it may not seem like it when we’re drenched in sweat and our legs feel like lead, marathon running is as mental as physical. When we’re exhausted, continuing consists of mind over matter. This takes enormous mental power. Once developed, this skill can be transferred from the racetrack to the boardroom.

Training for a marathon is an ideal place to improve the skills needed to achieve success in business: strategy, clear objectives, and a positive attitude. These techniques are also crucial to completing a marathon. Without them, even the most fanatically fit athlete is doomed to fail. Through physical training we can develop and master these skills.

In business, investment and marathon, a well-planned strategy is essential. In each situation, we must commit to our plan, yet be willing to adapt it if it isn’t working. Though strategy can be complex or simple, with our first marathon it’s best to choose the latter. Simplification is a great way to remove self-imposed pressure. This can mean concentrating on maintaining a steady heart rate or pace. We need to do this during both training and our marathon, since sustaining this relaxed-focus helps remove the barrier of performance anxiety.

The strategy of shifting attention to our body’s sensations is called association, and it’s a tactic used by many elite athletes. The self-focused introvert may find this more comfortable than directing attention outside. The outgoing extrovert, however, may be more suited to the disassociation technique. This involves turning our awareness outward. According to a report published in The Journal of Sports Psychology: “ Considerable evidence exists to link disassociation strategies with increased pain tolerance during endurance tasks.” Disassociation may also useful during a dull seminar, or an extended visit from our mother-in-law.

Just as business meetings have objectives, so should your marathon training. Whatever your personal goal, it needs to be specific, measurable, and reasonable. Similar to our professional life, these can be accomplished by choosing to focus on either the process or the outcome. In our business life a process goal would be improving our customer relation skills, while an outcome goal would be making X amount more dollars. For your first marathon, process goals are better. Since meeting them may be as simple as adhering to our training schedule, they guarantee success. As we all know, success produces self-confidence. Developing this gives us courage to challenge ourselves to achieve greater victories. Outcome goals, like beating a rival, are more risky. Since external factors can interfere with them, they are harder to succeed at.

Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial to accomplishment. Without belief in eventual success, we’ll quit at the slightest obstacle. This is true both in career and running. Everyday, marathon training teaches us persistence through discomfort. This is essential. Without challenging ourselves we can never progress to higher success. Besides the things we tell ourselves, a positive attitude also includes motivating inner images.

Many superior athletes use mental imagery, or guided visualization. These include Marion Clignet, 1996 and 2000 silver medallist on the French cycling team, and 6 times Masters winner Jack Nicklaus. Medical experts have also tested this method. A recent article published in the Journal of Sports Science states: “The power of mental imagery in sport performance has been widely noted. Keep your thinking and mental rehearsing of your upcoming races positive and it may contribute to new personal records.”

The importance of mental imagery is also noted in Olympic runner Jeff Galloway’s Marathon: You Can Do It. In this book, Galloway encourages us to rehearse parts of our marathon every day. He says that this will help us prepare for and find solutions to problems we may encounter and help us “tough it out.” This strength doesn’t end in out legs and lungs. Finishing a marathon makes us more tenacious, helping us bring home “the gold” in business.

Using Aerobics For Better Abs

2009-01-26T12:31:00.000-08:00

The fact is that we all think doing crunches will decrease that stomach fat. With the warmer weather just around the corner, we all start to look at our bellies. It seems that aerobics are a good way to burn that fat because you are working so hard that your body will be using those fat reserves for energy. You actually need to incorporate aerobic exercise a couple of times a week for success. This would include walking, dancing, cycling, rowing, or swimming for at least 30 minutes. Aerobics work by increasing oxygen to the muscles and allows them to work longer. The best aerobic exercise for losing that stomach fat is walking. If you can walk at a pace to work up a sweat, then you are on your way to a flatter stomach.

Remember to give your abs a rest. You should not be working your abs every day because they need time to repair. Your muscles actually get micro tears when you work them so every other day is sufficient and safe. The abs are hard to work because it takes a lot of effort to actually move them. They bulge when they are relaxed and stretch thin when flexed. The term "core" is used to describe that middle section of your body. A good way to incorporate a workout is to use a fitness ball. Along with working out and aerobic exercise you should eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

One thing to remember when working out is to not overdue it. Here are some tips:

-You should be able to talk and exercise at the same time.
-However, if you can sing, you need to work a little bit harder.

You can monitor your heart rate and try to reach your targeted range. As you continue to work out, your heart rate should decrease, meaning you are getting in shape!

So I hope we have learned that it takes more than repetitive crunches to get a flatter stomach. You actually have to incorporate some aerobic exercises into your regular routine. Aerobic exercises will target those specific areas of fat and use them up, thus decreasing your body fat. It is even harder for women because so many things can affect their abdominal region, including hormones. Hopefully, if you follow some simple tips and incorporate aerobics into your workout, you will find that you can shrink that pouch around your stomach area.

Fat Loss 4 Idiots

2009-01-25T15:03:00.000-08:00

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Fat Loss 4 idiots or the idiot proof diet details various reasons why most diets are not effective. The main point is that when you are on a diet, you are supposed burn more calories than what you take in. However, your metabolism adjusts to the amount of calories you consume. When this happens your metabolism slows down and that's when you stop losing weight. Fat Loss 4 Idiots asserts that the answer to this problem is calorie shifting.

By rotating your protein and carbs intake everyday, your body's metabolism increases and this, according to Fat Loss for Idiots, will help you lose weight faster. With a combination of perfect carb and protein, you are allowed to eat four times a day with this diet. This process corrects and regulates your fat burning hormones, thereby helping you quickly and safely lose weight. This ingenious technique is known as the calorie shifting method.

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Weight loss for idiots is where I first started looking for an easy way to lose weight because I became a fat body. My search lead me to Fat loss 4 idiots, which as it turned out was perfect for me. Fat loss for idiots claims you can lose more weight by eating more often. It can also be done in a very simple step by step process.

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The results of weight loss 4 idiots is so tremendous that I lost 7 lbs in just 11 days, the promise was I would lose 9 lbs but the 7 in 11 days result is a huge start. After another 11 day cycle, I lost 6 lbs more. So in 22 days, I lost 13 pounds, which may not be the accurate amount of weight I should have lost in their advertisement, but that's 13 pounds!

Where most diet plans fail is the fact they dont understand how the metabolism works. Fat Loss 4 Idiots uses basic metabolism facts to develop a solution to the diet problem. You see your metabolism has a memory, but it doesn't know how much food you'll eat tomorrow or the next day. Logically, your metabolism only burns calories based on the meals you've had in the past. Weight Loss for Idiots uses this mechanism to come up with the effective diet plan known as calorie shifting method.

Weight Loss 4 Idiots shocks your metabolism by doing something you've never tried before. With Weight Loss 4 Idiots, you don't eat the same meals with the same calorie content for a couple of days. Through this, your metabolism no longer has a pattern to follow so it forced to burn more calories efficiently. This article is not an inclusive fat loss 4 idiots review but I hope it answered some questions about the diet program.

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Powerful Anti-Aging Secrets!

2009-01-25T11:41:00.000-08:00

Many people have searched the world over looking for the fountain of youth. We all long for eternal beauty, free of wrinkles or the sagging of age. To answer this yearning, the market has been bombarded with creams and serums boasting the secrets of anti aging. Anti aging has become a market in itself and we have answered the call, purchasing our fill or at least the fill of our pocketbooks! However, perhaps the answer does not lie in a miracle lotion or cream, but in the life we live before we reach our advanced years.

Do not misunderstand, I am not suggesting we will forever be free from wrinkles if we live properly – at some point our skin will sag and we will show our age. Instead, I am suggesting our society is always looking for the quick fixes. To lose weight, we look for a miracle pill instead of eating right and exercising. On the same note, instead of eating properly and caring for ourselves, we look for the easy way out – something to rub on our faces to remove the evidence of the life we have chosen to live, or even worse, surgery to cut away and stretch out the skin we have chosen to disregard for so long.
On the other hand, why don’t we accept the creases that line our faces as trophies we have earned with the years we have endured on this Earth? Why is the exploration in search of anti aging so much more popular than the search for self-acceptance?

At the end of the day, when our eyes close for the final time, will it matter how many wrinkles line our faces, how tight our stomach muscles are, or the amount of gray in our hair? Will the pursuit of anti aging be a factor when age ceases to exist? Of course not. Perhaps we should spend our lives pursuing something that may actually proceeds us in death, instead of that which fades with lost memories.

South Beach Diet - Ready to be a Loser?

2009-01-25T11:39:00.000-08:00

The South Beach diet is a way that many people are shedding the pounds. Miami cardiologic Arthur Agatston started this diet. It got its name when it became a very popular diet in South Florida. This diet is unique from many diets because it evolves. Instead of simply having a diet list that remains the same throughout the course of the diet, your requirements change in stages.

When you first start the south beach diet, it is much like every other diet. You cut out all those things in your diet that most people live for. Sweets, breads, carbohydrates, alcohol, and even fruits are forbidden. Unlike most diets, however, this phase is only supposed to last for two weeks. This is why it is usually seen as healthier than a no-carbohydrate diet. While no carbohydrates will certainly make most people lose weight, it isn't healthy for the long run. You need these for energy and a healthy body.

After two weeks of torture with a south beach diet, you are allowed to have your forbidden foods back, but not in the same way as before. The hope is, that as you go through this diet plan, you will learn what foods are truly good for you. There are some fats and carbohydrates and even sweets that your body should have. A healthy body is well balance. The challenge is to find that balance.

When you add your foods back into your diet, you are supposed to do this step in a slow and healthy way. When you get through adding all of your loved foods back into your diet, hopefully you will have learned how to eat normal size portions. Many people eat otherwise healthy foods, but in too large of portions.

You will also have learned how to balance your diet so that you take in everything you need without overdoing anything. Advocates of the south beach diet conclude that you don't go without anything your body needs.
You only get rid of those things such as carbohydrates and fats that are bad for you. The fats and carbs that are deemed good will stay in your long-term diet.

The south beach diet is supposed to become a lifelong way of eating after you make the steps to eat this way. And if it gives you the body image that you are seeking, who would really quit it? And on top of a positive body image, your doctor will also be proud of you for adopting a healthier lifestyle.

Obesity in America -- The Growing Epidemic!

2009-01-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

Obesity is a disease that affects approximately 60 million people in the United States, where women are especially affected. Over one-third of women between the ages of 20 and 74 are obese, the majority of them being African American or Mexican American. With more and more pre-packaged food and less and less activity, the number of obese people in America has steadily increased since the 1960’s.

But what is obesity? Many people think obesity means that a person is overweight, but that’s not exactly true. An overweight person has a surplus amount of weight that includes muscle, bone, fat, and water. An obese person has a surplus of body fat. Most health professionals concur that a man is obese if he has over 25 percent body fat, and a woman is obese if she has over 30 percent. Women physiologically have more body fat than men, so that why there’s a difference in percentage.

It is difficult to determine the exact percentage of body fat a person has, but estimates can be made in a number of ways. First, using a tweezer-like tool called a caliper, you can measure the thickness of skin folds on different points of your body and compare the results with standardized numbers. You can also use a small device that sends a harmless electrical current through your body and measures your body fat percentage. The most commonly used method to determine if a person is obese is to look at his/her Body Mass Index (BMI). A person with a BMI over 30 is considered to be obese, and a BMI over 40 is considered to be severely obese. It’s important to remember though that BMI could be misleading in pregnant or lactating women and in muscular individuals. There are some free tools to find your body fat percentage at http://www.abs-exercise-advice.com/body-fat-calculator.html.

With obesity, comes the increased risk of diseases such as high blood pressure, Type II Diabetes, heart disease, and breast, colon, and prostate cancer. In addition, obesity has been linked to mental health conditions such as depression or feelings of shame and low self-esteem. Health experts say that even losing 10 to 15 percent of your body weight can dramatically decrease the risk of developing these serious conditions. In addition, many obese people are discriminated against and targets of insults and other verbal abuse. Find out if you are at risk for health disease using the health calculators at http://www.abs-exercise-advice.com/high-blood-pressure.html.

A number of factors, such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, genetics, and certain medical disorders, cause obesity, but it can be conquered. One major obstacle to being more physically active is motivation and accountability. Find a friend with similar fitness goals and begin a simple exercise program together. It takes time to see the results, but your health is worth it!

Nutrition, Evolution, and Having a Healthy Diet By Judith Schwader

2009-01-25T11:35:00.000-08:00

Nutrition has everything to do with health. This isn’t news, exactly, but looking around at the crazy information on the market, one wonders if anyone actually makes the connection: what you eat affects how you feel. It’s that simple. Your health depends on the food choices you make in both the short and long term.

Take a pill, and all you’ve done is treat a symptom. Change your eating habits, and create a lasting change in your well-being. There are so many approaches to eating, however, and so much conflicting information that it’s come down to this simple question: does whatever you’re eating right now make sense?

Well, sense isn’t common, and it does depend on some good information. So here is something to consider: what kind of foods are humans evolved to eat? Cheetos? Don’t think so. That’s a no-brainer, but what about some others that we counted as healthy staples until recently, like bread and pasta. Go way back in your imagination, to hunter gatherer days – before agriculture and the obesity which followed for the first time among humans – and consider what would be part of our ancestors’ normal diet. If you’re about to pop something into your mouth that wasn’t around before agriculture, (a relatively recent development in human history), then eat it knowing it’s not considered a ‘normal’ food by your body. Foods your body considers ‘normal’ contribute to your health, other foods are either neutral or harmful. How simple is that?

A well-known exploration of this concept that certain foods help our bodies thrive is Dr. Peter D’Adamo’s book, “Eat Right 4 Your Type,” in which he bases his lists of what to eat and avoid on blood type. D’Adamo asserts that type O is the oldest type, and the newer A type didn’t show up on the scene until agriculture. So, Os should eat lots of meat and veg because that blood type doesn’t know how to handle too much grain. Type As can eat grain, but not dairy. Dairy is a category reserved as a ‘normal’ food only for the yet more recent human blood type, AB. (Maybe we’ll evolve a new type that can handle Cheetos and red licorice, my personal favorite abnormal foods).

D’Adamo supports his blood-type theory with all kinds of careful research, and so what? Does it make sense that humans should rely primarily on foods that occur naturally? Absolutely. If you’re going to eat a grain like wheat then, eat it whole, or don’t eat it at all, and don’t eat much of it anyway because humans pretty much made wheat up! I’m not going to take the, “Does it occur naturally?” debate too far, because it’s time to look at another researcher’s take on the food and evolution connection.

Dr. Phillip Lipetz wrote “The Good Calorie Diet,” a book for the weight loss market, but he also has supported his theories with all kinds of careful research. His describes how the human response to starvation that was developed during the ice age carries on today. Ironic, isn’t it, that the food available to us today - rich and sweet and abundant - causes our bodies to behave as though starvation is at hand.

The short story for how this works is that up until the ice age, humans ate whatever was readily available, like roots, plants, fruit, and a little tasty carrion now and then. Along came the ice ages, and those foods became scarce. Now humans were forced to hunt, but it was dicey and the weapons were primitive, so spans of time occured between kills. The result: our ancestors evolved ways to make the most of the conversion of excess blood sugar into stored nutrition in the form of body fat. When they starved, they lived off stored fat.

Today’s diet mimics the ice age diet: high fat and high protein, and our genetic programming says, “Uh oh, we’re facing starvation again. Better store up some fat.” Lipetz goes into convincing detail about food combinations in his book. He describes some that cause the creation of excess fat, such as butter on bread. More useful are his combination's that actually inhibit fat formation, like lean meat with most vegetables. In a society where obesity and its attendant health issues are rampant, these food combination's are helpful places to focus our attention. Yet the single most useful bit to remember from his research is that foods which cause our bodies to create excess fat all have one thing in common: they weren’t part of our ancestors’ normal diet.

Armed with this overview, next time you’re about to pop something in your mouth - whether your focus is health or weight – you don’t need to have a bunch of rules and whacky information in mind. Just use common sense. Ask whether it’s a food that was around before the advent of agriculture. If it was, go for it. If it wasn’t, then consider that your body won’t consider the food ‘normal,’ and in both the long and short run, that’s got health consequences.

The Fountain of Youth - Right in Front of Us All This Time!

2009-01-25T11:34:00.000-08:00

The Fountain of Youth - Right at Your Fingertips

Can we really stop the aging process, slow it down, or even reverse the effects of aging on our skin and body? It is an enigma for which so many have searched the answers to for years. Now, with advanced modern science making breakthroughs and discoveries every day, the answers have become apparent to the age-old quest for the proverbial fountain of youth.

In large part, your everyday lifestyle choices contribute to the way you age, and at what rateyour body ages. Diet, environmental factors, exercise and the topical skincare products and skin care regimen you choose, all affect the way you are going to appear now and ten, twenty, and thirty years down the road. It's no surprise your lifestyle plays a pivotal
role in how your body and skin age over the years, since we've always known diet and exercise affect our energy levels, appearance, moods, and fitness level.

However, several key foods have been found to be very effective weapons not only against aging in general, but also against skin disorders ranging from acne, rosacea, thin skin, and photo aging (sun damage). These foods can even help reverse and repair sun and other environmental damage done to theskin. This powerful weapon is a goup of chemical compounds called antioxidants, and what they accomplish in high doses, along with adequate exercise, can mimic a surgical facelift over a relatively short period of time!

Think about all of the damage your skin is exposed to on a daily basis. It is your largest and most vulnerable organ, exposed to toxins and other damaging elements, like the sun, every day. These elements will actually accelerate the aging process by producing harmful compounds called free radicals, which can damage cells and in turn damage the skin. Antioxidants actually fight free radicals, and reverse some of the damage already done by them in the body.

Precautions to be taken to prevent these nasty little free radicals from wreaking havoc on your skin include wearing sunscreen every day, getting regular moderate exercise, using preventive skin care (cleansers, lotions, gels, creams, etc.) formulated with powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C and Alpha Lipoic Acid, and making sure your get an abundance of
antioxidants in your every day diet.

Some examples of foods high in antioxidants include berries (strawberries, bluberries, raspberries, etc.),citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, etc.), and vegetables rich in color, such as broccoli, zuccini, spinach, and summer squash.

While there are many foods to be enjoyed while living by the
"anti-aging" diet, there are also foods that need to be either avoided all together, or strictly minimized. These are refined sugar, caffeine, and all starchy and white flour products. The resulting surge of insulin created by these foods produces more free radicals and breaks down the cell's defenses against damaging elements, leaving you wide open to more skin damage
(ie. wrinkles, skin disorders, and other premature aging effects).

These foods are highly inflammatory by nature, and while they may taste good going down, know that they are destroying good cells and allowing for future damage by weakening the cell's defenses further. Eating these foods results in less tone and definition. The skin "droops", hence the creation of fine lines, wrinkles, and dull color. You will know a person that has a high sugar and high carb diet by looking at their face. They may have almost a "doughy" appearance to their skin, lacking the sharp definition and tone enjoyed by those who follow a healthy diet based on the anti-aging principles.

So, there you have it, some of the core concepts that will get you started to minimizing and even reversing the affects of aging. This is really just the tip of the iceberg. There is actually a lot more information on these concepts available that would be well worth your time to learn. What
you do with these principles is up to you, it's just a matter of making some minor changes for a longer, happier and healthier life. I'd say that is definitely worth the investment!

The Top 10 Ways to Improve Your Diet, Your Health & Your Life!

2009-01-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

Because I believe diet and exercise are so important, I'm often frustrated with the recommendations I receive. Nutrition and natural health ideas are often so negative (don't eat this, watch out for that) or so rigorous (be sure to eat some raw, natural, organically grown vegetable I've never heard of) or so complicated, I end up ignoring them. And yet, I know diet is critical to my health and well-being, so I made up my own rules. My objective was simplicity, so all of you with greater will-power and more discipline, cut me some slack, OK? For the rest of us, I hope you find them useful.

1. Eat less. I used to eat until I was full, and then snack as a hobby. And, sometimes I still do. But, more and more, I decide when I've eaten enough, leave room for a treat later, and simply choose to eat a little less. I think it helps.

2. Drink more water. I used to try to drink 8 glasses a day, but I usually ended up either losing count…or just going to the bathroom a lot. Now, on my way to the table I stop by the sink and grab a glass of water. I figure that's more water than most people drink, it probably helps me eat less (see Rule #1), and sometimes it reminds me to drink even more. Close enough.

3. Eat more fruit. Benjamin Franklin said, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." I just know apples, a banana, some grapes or something "exotic" like a mango or a kiwi tastes good, and it's the fastest, most portable and convenient food I've found. A handful of those little baby carrots beats a sandwich by a good 90 seconds!

4. Eat your vegetables. Yeah, still listening to my mother. But on the positive side, they're so easy! No sauces, no mixing or blending or nothing! Raw, steamed or microwaved, they're great for adding color to a meal (greens, yellows, and beans in all sorts of colors). I know fresh and organically grown is best, and sometimes I buy them that way….

5. Eat more rice and baked potatoes. I score points with my doctor, my "significant other" and again, it's about the easiest cooking I've figured out.

6. Stretch when you feel like it. I used to follow a routine that recommended stretching and yoga for about 30 minutes every morning. Wonderful stuff! Very healthy. And someday I'm going to give it another try! For now, every morning, and several times during the day, I stand up and try to reach the ceiling. I bend, twist, shake my shoulders, breath deep, whatever seems to feel good at the moment. Then I get back to work.

7. Avoid exercise and elevators. OK, I believe jogging and sweating and lifting weights are good for me. And I do some of it. But I also find it useful to walk around the block to get the mail (the box is across the street) or take the stairs instead of the elevator. I walk the dog, push the lawnmower and play tennis and golf with my friends. That way I figure I'm exercising and leaving the gyms open for the rest of you.

8. Spend time with friends. Talking, sharing dreams, giving and receiving support, solving life's great mysteries and debating politics or religion with a friend does wonders for the soul. And, hugs are good. And if you have a life-partner, I find talking regularly seems to avoid a number of other problems, as well!

9. Laugh every day. Tell a joke, wrestle with your dog or play with the kids next door, but have some fun! Life's short.

10. Plan for dessert! At the end of the day, I really like something special to top it all off. So, I plan for a bite of chocolate or a cup of low-fat pudding or yogurt or a handful of fresh grapes. It sure seems to beat restlessly searching the cupboards and refrigerator for "something" and ending up with a big bowl of ice cream!

Finally, a few words of experience. It's OK to "slip" once in a while. At least it better be OK...I seem to do it periodically. Just get up again tomorrow, make the rules simpler, more fun or more appropriate for your situation and get right back on! I don't think the objective is perfection -- there's no point in having a heart attack getting all stressed out about the rules! Just go have some fun!

Why Digestive Enzymes Are Vital To Good Health!

2009-01-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

Most digestive disorders develop because of the body's inability
to produce sufficient enzymes for health-enhancing digestion and proper nutrient absorption. Enzyme depletion results in improper digestion and absorption, leading to chronic disorders

Malabsorption is the inability of the cells of the body to obtain nutrients from the foods consumed. This inaction causes loss of vitamins, minerals, fiber and the caloric value (energy) of foods, resulting in cellular deprivation. Digestive malabsorption can occur as a result of the following condition:

1. Insufficient time for large food molecules (protein, starch, fat) to be broken down by specific digestive enzymes.

2. Improperly-functioning Pancreas, not capable of delivering enough digestive enzymes to the small intestine to break down large molecules; thus, nutrient absorption becomes minimal or nonexistent.

3. The development of a condition known as Cleaky gut syndrome in which the membrane walls of the intestine lining become permeable, allowing undigested food to be leaded into the bloodstream.

The work of digestive enzymes is to break down food materials into components that are absorbable and, in addition, produce substances that assist in emulsifying fats into forms that can be readily absorbed into the blood.

Enzymes are necessary for life!

Everything that lives requires enzymes including humans, plants and animals.

Enzymes are a protein-based substance found in every living cell.

Important Life-Enhancing Functions of Enzymes:

Aids digestive functioning
Anti-wrinkle properties.
Assists healing abilities.
Assists respiratory function.
Assists glucose balance.
Dissolves blood clots.
Anti-inflammatory properties.
Immune stimulator to build-up natural resistance to disease

The actions of enzymes facilitate all of lifes processes and molecular integrity.

Another effect of low enzyme activity is fermentation, the basis for intestinal disorders. This process is encouraged when the diet contains carbohydrates and sugars that remain in the intestinal tract rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream. These unabsorbed substances constitute the most common source of intestinal gas and discomfort.

2009-01-22T09:21:00.000-08:00

If you want to lose weight, there is one thing you ought to eliminate from your diet…sugar.

Sugar is a villain in your quest to lose weight. You are probably thinking, “Of course, everyone knows that sugar is fattening.” Well, there’s more to it than meets the eye. It’s important that you understand exactly why you ought to avoid sugar.

First, let’s define sugar. Sugar takes many more forms than the white table sugar with which you are familiar. Sugar includes corn syrup, maltose, lactose, fructose, sucrose, brown sugar, honey, molasses.

When you ingest cakes, cookies, chocolate, cereal, etc.—in other words, simple carbohydrates—you flood your bloodstream with sugar. (You need to begin to read ingredients labeling to determine if there is sugar in the food. You’ll be surprised at just how many foods contain sugar in one form or another.) The pancreas then produces insulin, a hormone designed to pull sugar out of your bloodstream and deposit it in your cells and your liver.

Because the pancreas does such a good job, your blood sugar rapidly drops lower than it should. (That explains your swings in your energy level.) Your brain then gets the message that your body requires more sugar to return the level to normal. As a result you feel a need to eat more sugar. And the cycle begins again.

Many people believe they are “addicted” to sugar. I guarantee you that, if you didn’t eat sugar for three or four days, that feeling of “addiction” would pass because your blood sugar levels would be stable and you would no longer feel the craving for sugar.

In addition, the pancreas releases another hormone called glucagon that helps to release fat from your cells. When you eat sugar all the time and the pancreas has to constantly release insulin, it is prohibited from releasing glucagon. As a result, you are literally locking fat in your body.

You might ask, “What about fruit?” Many people think of fruit as a great diet food. How often do you see someone having a plateful of fruit for lunch? Remember that fruit contains fructose, a natural sugar responsible for the sweetness of the fruit. It’s important to know that just because it’s natural, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s alright to eat it. It works the same way as any sugar. Now, we know that fruit contains many vitamins and minerals and should be a part of your food plan. However, if you are trying to lose weight, you need to keep your fruit consumption low, focusing on those fruits that contain less sugar, such as apples, pears and most berries.

Now, I don’t want to leave you thinking that you can never again have sugar. Even while you are losing weight, there is one time that, if you must, you can give yourself permission to eat sugar. That time is immediately following an INTENSE training session. But be sure the session is intense because working hard will deplete your body of its glycogen stores (that’s the name for sugar stored in your cells and liver for energy). Your body can store only a small amount at a time so it is possible to deplete it during an intense workout.

But don’t overdo it. Remember, while you are in a weight-loss mode, you need to be particularly careful with what you put in your body.

Boost Your Immune System

2009-01-22T09:18:00.000-08:00

The Immune System is probably the most important system in your body. It was designed by nature, millions of years ago, to aid the body in recovering from injuries and illness. In other words “a natural built in healing system”.

Your blood is composed mainly of red and white cells, the red ones carry the oxygen and nutrition to all parts of the body, the white ones are the defenders and scavengers of your body, during infection, they are immediately called upon to fight the infection and clean up afterwards.
These billions of cells work very hard and consequently they have quite a short lifespan, usually, only a few days.

Originally the Immune System did not face as many problems, as it does in this day and age, now it has to cope with pollution, poisons, toxins, pesticides, herbicides and chemicals, in the air that we breathe, the food that we eat and the water that we drink. As you will understand, the immune system is fighting a huge battle, just trying to cope with all these attacks that are happening every day. Luckily for us, these cells can be generated very quickly, so with the correct nutrition, it will not take the immune system much time, to get back up to full strength.

When you have a vaccination, your immune system is given a copy of a specific disease, so that if the system comes across the disease again, the memory cells in the immune system, will know exactly what action to take, likewise, if you have had a disease before, they know what to do in the event of reinvasion.

The cells involved in your immune system, have what is called “cellular communication”, this means that the cells all talk to each other, they ask each other if they are OK, if one says it is unwell, the others will all help it to heal, if it is beyond help, the other cells will exterminate it and then eliminate it completely from the body.
Sometimes the immune system will go astray and start attacking the good healthy cells, then problems occur which are known as auto immune system diseases, which can cause cells to mutate with all sorts of consequences. Auto Immune System diseases are increasing all the time, and is one of the most serious threats to good health.

There is a natural slow decline in the efficiency of the body’s immune system, which partly comes with age; you tend to absorb some nutrients less efficiently.

There is evidence that suggests a nutrient dense diet, may slow this decline, slow the aging process, improve your immune system and energy by giving it a boost or modulating the cellular communication process.

One of the Natural Healing products that are available through our website, is a natural nutrient, that has been used for over a thousand years and it is known as the most “Nutritionally Dense” food in the world.
Your immune system needs help to function at the highest capacity. Without an efficiently functioning immune system, you are not going to maintain good health.

Health is you’re your most valuable asset, even though you might not realize this now, when it begins to deteriorate, it could just possibly be to late to do much about the consequences of ill health. Possible help for the Immune System is a healthy diet, with lots of natural sources of Vitamins A, C and E, Zinc, Iron, Folate, Vitamin B6. Check out the website for more information.

Macrobiotics: Diet and Lifestyle for Long-term Health

2009-01-22T09:17:00.000-08:00

A frequent misunderstanding about macrobiotics is that it
is a diet sick people use - cancer patients especially - in
order to heal. While it is true that a macrobiotic
approach has helped a great many people get well,
macrobiotics is much more than a mere diet, and it is for
everyone. Whether you're recovering from illness or simply
interested in having greater vitality, macrobiotics is a
wholistic, natural system for good health and long life.

"Let food by thy medicine, and medicine thy food," is a
saying from the ancient Greek philosopher Hippocrates, who
also coined the term "macrobiotics." In Greek, "makro"
means long or large, and "bio" means life. A macrobiotic
approach to good health begins with food and cooking,
extending to include lifestyle and exercise. Daily walks,
a grateful state of mind, and meditation for centering
oneself are among the practices of the system. Its purpose
is to create a state of health that supports rather than
prevents a full and vibrant life.

Since Hippocrates coined the term, we know that the
principles of macrobiotics have been around a long time.
They're the same concepts that you'll find in any modern
day nutrition or fitness class: high fiber, low fat, plenty
of vegetables and grains, limited meat. Going beyond these
basics, macrobiotics also includes healing foods such as
sea vegetables and ginger root.

To bring balance to one's physical and emotional condition
through utilizing food is the macrobiotic focus. Foods
that have nutritional and energetic balance - yin and yang -
are used: legumes, beans, whole grains, and vegetables
dominate. Red meat, dairy, refined sugar, and coffee are
examples of foods without balance and they are eliminated.
For flavor, variety, and seasonal virtue, some oils, nuts,
and fruits are used in small amounts. The variety adds
interest and also increases the nutrient range. The end
result is food both wholesome and delicious.

It is critically important that the food tastes good
because food is sensual, and if it doesn't appeal to our
senses, we won't eat it in the long run. It might take a
bit of time to develop the taste for macrobiotic cuisine
because it is light and elegant in its simplicity.

Lingzhi A Miracle Herb For Peak Health

2009-01-22T08:24:00.000-08:00

The secret of success is knowing how to deal with your body to maintain peak health condition. The dictum Health is Wealth hold more truth in the modern context than ever before.

While medical science has progressed what one could ever imagine, in treating disorders and disease, the real challenge lies in prevention. Modern medicine has succeeded in treating major disease it has not found a perfect system for prevention of dreaded diseases like cancer and HIV.

The answer lies in looking to a system which is natural sustainable and adaptable for all conditions and all body systems.

This has now led to extensive research in Herbs as the primary preventive source and healthy herbal and organic food products now take the lead in preventive systems.

The king of Herbs as it is known in China and Celestial Herb in Japan is Ganoderma. It is also known as Lingzhi in China and Reishi in Japan.

Lingzhi is now widely researched across the globe by many universities and research institutions and sterling work has been done by China and Japan.

Revered for thousands of years and shrouded in mystery, Lingzhi however was difficult to grow. After much research in 1970 a breakthrough was achieved in commercial cultivation. Still it remains rare and cultivated in few countries like China, Japan, Malaysia and Korea to name a few.

DXN a company from Malaysia remains in the forefront of bringing the benefits of the Lingzhi to the common man. More details at http://globalhealthnetwork.tripod.com

The Magic Effects of Ganoderma

Research is still going on and scientists have discovered 252 active components beneficial and essential to the human body. It is an adaptogen which brings immense benefits to human body without any side effect.

Analysis and experiments done by various universities and pharmaceutical manufacturers have attested to its being a hemocatharsis, detoxificant,diuretic, liver protector, intestine regulator, cardiotonic, blood pressure adjuster, a cold tonic, expectorant, a tranquilizer and inhibits tumour and cancerous growth.

What is the Healing Principle of Ganoderma

Many clinical trials and experiments by doctors, especially Dr. Shigeru Yuji’s experiments has established the reasons Ganoderma is effective because of its basic functions

Lowers cholesterol in the blood and the amount of free fat
Reduces blood sugar levels and helps pancreatic functions
Lowers blood lipids and stabilizes red cell membrane
Improves the function of the cortex of the adrenal glands to maintain endocrine balance
Elevates the natural healing ability of the body, allows the body to establish strong immune system
Prevents tissue cell degeneration
Prevents senility, maintaining a youthful constitution
Lowers the side effects of antihypertensive drugs
Prevents organ degenetation
Prevents allergy caused by antigens, because it inhibits the histamine release by mastcells
Relieves pain caused by cancer

While plenty of medical terminology is used to describe various effects on the body, we have avoided such references as the article is not meant as a medical prescription but mainly for use by the common man as an effective health giving food supplement.

Main Health Giving Components

While the Linghzhi mushrooms are said to contain 252 active medicinal compounds, the two main components are:

Germanium: Germanium can promote blood circulation, can increase oxygen absorbing capability of the body and keep sufficient oxygen in the body, improve metabolism and prevent functional degeneration. Based on research germanium is the major component of Lingzhi. The germanium contained in Lingzhi is 4-6 times more than ginseng.
Poly-saccharides: The poly saccharides can increase antibody count which strengthens immunity. Poly saccharides are the most active health enhancing ingredient for the body.

No wonder the Lingzhi mushrooms are called the ‘Celestial Herb’ by the Japanese for its health giving properties. Modern science and cultivation methods have made this difficult to grow herb available for the past decade or two for everyone to derive the benefits.

While there are thousands of research papers available on the medicinal aspects of the Lingzhi this article primarily is to highlight the health giving aspects of this wonderful herbal remedy for ills of the modern living like stress, pollution and imbalances in food habits.

How Can Fat Be Essential?

2009-01-22T08:22:00.000-08:00

Did you know that some fats are essential to the body? Yes, there are some fats that our body cannot produce which means that we must get them from our food. Perhaps you’ve heard of omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. These are both considered essential and must be supplied by the foods we eat.

What do they do? Well, the omega-3 fatty acid, for example is used for the production of healthy cell membranes and for the production of a class of hormones called prostaglandins. You know how aspirin and acetominophen are anti-inflammatories? So are the prostaglandins that our bodies produce from omega-3 fatty acids.

Now, we need the omega-3’s and the omega-6’s to be in the proper combination to be most effective to us. Empirical evidence shows that the proper ratio is about 4:1 between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. What do you suppose our average diet gives us? About a 20:1 and up to a 40:1 ratio; not even close to the optimal ratio.

Why is the balance so out of whack? Well, our normal diets are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. We get them from meats, dairy products, and processed foods. We eat a lot of those foods on average. We get omega-3 fatty acids from certain vegetable oils such as flaxseed, canola, and soybean. And we get omega-3 fatty acids from cold-water fish such as mackerel, sardines, salmon, and tuna.

Eat more fish! You’ve heard that said before, and now you know why.

Especially the salmon. It is especially rich in the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon , or any of the other omega-3 rich fish (but what tastes better than good salmon?) should be consumed at least once a week.

In order to get the omega-6 vs. omega-3 ratio in order, decrease your consumption of the saturated fat from meats and dairy products and increase your consumption of fish such as salmon.

Do you know how else you will benefit from increased consumption of omega-3 fatty acids? Your cholesterol level will improve. You see, the essential omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to help decrease your total cholesterol and your LDL cholesterol level. The LDL cholesterol is the so-called bad cholesterol. So you will improve your cholesterol levels by adding a better balance of omega-3 fatty acids to your diet.

Not surprisingly, the omega-3 fatty acids can be heart healthy. Several diseases show improvement when patients increase their intake of these essential fats. Check out Dr. Ray Strand’s important book for citings of clinical studies of omega-3. The book is titled, “What Your Doctor Doesn’t Know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You.” It’s a wonderful book and should be a standard reference volume in your nutrition library.

Eat well, take appropriate supplements, and stay healthy.

What is an Antioxidant?

2009-01-22T08:21:00.000-08:00

For the few people out there who are not already aware, antioxidants are authoritative substances that are found in certain fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants are anti aging, which means that they allow you to stay younger longer with better health. They not only help you to stay look young but as well can slow down or even preclude certain illnesses and diseases.

If there is any substance that you should be interested with when it comes to your health, one of the top issues of all would be antioxidants. Most people have heard of antioxidants before and know that they are a good thing, but most people are not witting of just what they are and the wellness benefits they offer.

An antioxidant is a very authoritative thing, one that anyone interested about their wellness should be witting of. An antioxidant is a molecule that is equal to of deceleration or even wholly preventing the oxidisation of other molecules, viz. free radicals which are sober in the body and which can actually end up doing constipation to the body.

In other words, an antioxidant is something that helps by deceleration down or preventing oxidisation in the body and this can be very good for the wellness in a number of different ways. They can make a very prescribed contribution to your wellness and ameliorate your ecumenical state of wellness and well being.

They can also provide other benefits, such as to your whisker and skin, and so overwhelming foods that are high in antioxidants is plain one of the best things that you can do for your health.

Where to Find Antioxidants

There are actually quite an a few dissimilar foods that are high in antioxidants. If you want the best antioxidant ratio, one of the things you are departure to start overwhelming more is green tea. Green tea is made from sweet leaves and reportedly contains the peak density of brawny antioxidants named polyphenols.

These are substances that work by scavenging free radicals which are disconcerting compounds in the body that meddle with DNA or inherited material. If you want a food that is high in antioxidant levels you are emphatically departure to want to amplification your consumption of green tea.

Another food that has a high antioxidant level is fruit. Berries, actually, are all methamphetamine full of antioxidants. There is actually quite an a diversity of dissimilar fruits that contain antioxidants and this includes cherries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, crowberries, blueberries, black currants, pomegranates, grapes, oranges, plums, pineapples, New Zealander fruits and grapefruits. This fruits are all full of these antioxidants, and are departure to offer you optimal wellness benefits. They are also usable year round, which makes it easier for you to work them into your diet.

Vegetables such as kale, chili pepper, red cabbage, peppers, parsley, artichoke, Brussels sprouts, spinach, lemon, ginger and red beets, dry fruits, legumes, daft and seeds, and cereals are all high in antioxidants as well.

There are certain antioxidant rich foods which contain more antioxidants than others, and it is these antioxidant food that you are departure to want to start including more in your diet.

Of all the dissimilar antioxidant food that there is out there, there are a few antioxidant food choices in particular that are departure to be worth feeding more of. One of the foods with the peak level of antioxidants is dark chocolate.

Dark chocolate is produced by the chocolate bean, which is known to be jammed full of antioxidants. Hot tea was thought to contain the preeminent amount of antioxidants but it was new proved that this was in fact not true and or else dark java does.Dark chocolate, like red wine, is said to be able to protect against substance disease, and total bring down the amounts of free radicals in your body.

The benefits of this antioxidant food are actually plentiful. They give you anti senescent protection against degenerative diseases and help to slow the senescent process of your skin, cells, tissues and organs.

If you are bemused on this thing you should verbalize to a nutritionist. They are trained professionals in this area and will be able to offer you a net ton of worthily advice and data on this matter.

Antioxidants are able to provide stronger insubordinate immunity to flues, viruses, and infections, greatly reduced relative incidence of all cancers, bar of glaucoma and macular degeneration, reduced chance of cholesterol-oxidation and substance disease, and anti senescent of the cells in the body. They work by armed combat disconfirming free radicals in the body and this is authoritative because free rout oxidisation constipation is the basic cause of senescent and is as inauspicious and destructive to your body as rusty is to your car.

You can verbalize to your doctor or even a dietitian for more data on this, and to get a better idea of which foods contain the peak levels of antioxidants so you can amplification your intake of these foods in your dieting and see to it your optimal health.

3 Biggest Nutritional Mistakes to Lose Body Fat

2009-01-22T08:17:00.000-08:00

When it comes to fitness, there are certain things many people just can't seem to get it right, one of it being nutrition. Many people are so obsessed with shedding that extra body fat, they often go too far in their efforts and stall their progress or, worse, start to backslide into the awful realm of being "skinny fat" (the result of lost muscle mass without a marked loss of fat). As hard as you may workout in the gym, you still need to cozy up to the fact that your work in the kitchen and at the dinner table is just as important. The following three are the biggest nutritional mistakes people make when trying to lose their body fat.

1. Aggressively Cutting Calories - You're ready to lose body fat at all costs. No sacrifice is too great. As a result, you decide to slash your caloric intake in half, expecting to transform your body in just a couple of weeks. Big mistake - not only is this completely unhealthy, but your body also isn't likely to reciprocate with the same dramatics. The reality is that aggressive cuts in calories can backfire, causing metabolism, your calorie-burning engine, to downshift into a lower gear. The better approach is to create a mild deficit, eating 15%-20% fewer calories on a daily basis.

2. Completely Eliminating Fat - Remember that moderation is the key to steady gains. Zero anything is dangerous in the nutrition world: Zero-carb, zero-fat, and zero-cholesterol diets are all fads that should be avoided. Controlling calories by slashing bad dietary fats such as butter, gristly meats, chicken skin and fried foods is one option. Taking a good thing too far, however, many eliminate nearly all dietary fat and try to chisel their bodies with fat-free sources of protein such as white fish, egg whites and protein powder. Since there's barely any fat in most carbohydrate foods and vegetables, where you'd pick up the remainder of your calories, these types of diets are essentially "fat-free." The big pitfall is that zero-fat diets compromise testosterone levels, which can disrupt the body's ability to retain metabolic-boosting muscle while dieting. In short, when testosterone levels fall, the metabolism slides right along with it.

3. Abandoning Carbs - While lower-carb diets certainly aid in the shedding of body fat, you don't want to cut out carbs completely. It's better to watch the selection and manipulation of your carbohydrate consumption. One of the best ways to do this is to slash carbs at all meals - outside of breakfast and your post-workout meal, that is. Those are the two times of day when carbs are critical to muscle growth. At breakfast you need carbs to reverse the catabolic state you fall into from fasting while you sleep, and after training you need carbs to spike insulin levels to drive muscle growth and restock muscle glycogen (the storage form of carbs) that was depleted during the workout.

Avoid these 3 biggest nutritional mistakes while continuing with your workout routines and you'll be able to lose your body fat fast and easily.

Buy P90X Nutrition and Fitness Guides

2009-01-21T23:39:00.000-08:00

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Following the P90X Nutrition Plan is just as vital to your overall success as any of the extreme workouts in this program. Specifically designed to work in tandem with the P90X routines, this 3-phase eating plan provides the perfect combination of foods to satisfy your body’s energy needs every step of the way.P90X is not about quick fixes or miracle diets. It’s about selecting the healthy foods that you WANT to eat, and determining the portion amounts that will provide your body with the right amount of fuel to excel during exercise.

Identifying what, when, and how much to eat so you can lose fat and still get into incredible shape is the goal of this nutrition plan.

The fact is, you are capable of achieving awesome results if you follow this eating plan as designed. For many, this may be the toughest exercise—but it is absolutely essential to succeed in this program. Once you incorporate the principles of the P90X nutrition plan into your life, you will quickly begin to feel better, look better, and without a doubt perform better. You’ll also soon discover that your cravings for unhealthy foods will be greatly reduced.

Your commitment to getting in the best shape of your life depends on your willingness to adhere to the guidelines of this 3-phase eating approach. The fundamentals are simple and easy to follow. All you have to do is make the commitment to stick to the plan and give your body the high-octane fuel it needs to get to the finish line.

The Three Phases:

Phase 1: Fat Shredder

A high-protein-based diet designed to help you strengthen muscle while simultaneously and rapidly shedding fat from your body.

Phase 2: Energy Booster

A balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein with a lower amount of fat to achieve additional energy for performance.

Phase 3: Endurance Maximizer

An athletic diet of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and lower fat with the emphasis on more carbohydrates. You’ll need this combination of foods as fuel to get the most out of your final few weeks and truly be in the best shape of your life!

A large body of scientific evidence shows that diet and exercise work hand-in-hand to promote fitness and physical performance. One reason for this symbiotic relationship is the energy equation. When you expend more calories than you consume, you burn body fat (aka “stored energy”) and build lean body mass—but because you need energy to exercise, every calorie you eat must be of the highest quality to get you over the hump.