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Helping Hands for Weight Loss

admin — Tue, 22 May 2012 18:39:47 +0000

Moving more and eating less is the weight loss mantra, but sometimes it’s nice to have a helping hand to keep you on the straight and narrow. Here are three ‘helping hands’ for weight loss that can help you reach your goal. Diet Pills Taking slimming pills can be a bit of a weight loss minefield as some can be dangerous and even approved medications can have side effects. If you do feel like you need a boost it’s best to talk to your physician or a chemist about the options available to you. One popular weight loss pill is Alli, which you can buy online from Lloyds pharmacy . This pill is only available for those with a BMI of 28 or above and unlike some medications that aim to speed up your metabolism, it works by stopping fats from being absorbed into the body. The side effects of eating fatty foods when taking this pill are rather unpleasant and lavatory related. Some users report losing weight with minimum changes to their diet, but unlike some slimming pills it does encourage you to change your eating habits simply because of the unpleasant results you experience if you do eat fatty foods! Weight Loss Clubs Sometimes, just knowing someone is on hand to help you out or give you a push when you are losing momentum can be the boost that keeps dieters on track. For this reason, slimming clubs like Weightwatchers and Slimming World remain popular. While clubs work for some, others feel restricted in the diet they are encouraged to follow or are put off by the time and financial commitment that go with club membership. Of course, there are other community-based options that can help you on your way, such as chatting on weight loss forums or following blogs like The Token Fat Girl and if you do need the extra guidance of food tracking, you could try a smartphone app such as Myfitnesspal . Exercise Goals Buddying up for exercise can help you stay committed – it’s far harder to cancel an activity if it’s a planned social event. However, if you do prefer to exercise alone, setting a goal can help you to stay on track. Enrolling in a charity race or some kind or sponsored event can force you to train – after all, you’ll want to make sure you are healthy enough to take part. If you do sign up as one of these events in aid of a charity you will also want to give your best performance possible, which is a great motivator to persuade you to put on your sneakers for a Sunday morning jog.

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Helping Hands for Weight Loss

Why Alternate Day Dieting is Disastrous

admin — Tue, 15 May 2012 06:00:28 +0000

Try eating over 2000 calories one day, and then depriving yourself to 1000 calories the next day. This is another form of yo-yo dieting. Some are saying that alternate day dieting will help to keep you satisfied, but ultimately result in a calorie deficit and weight loss. After all, Dr. Oz uses this technique for himself, so it must be effective, right ? Don’t Mess with Metabolism The big problem here is that you are playing with the metabolism . You would put your body in starvation mode one day, and then at a more normal calorie diet the next day. This could set you up for overeating and defeat the purpose of the diet plan. Plus, studies have shown that long term yo-yo dieting over the years can slow the metabolism . The creators of this diet thought that by never staying consistently low with the calories, one would be able to avoid the “starvation mode” metabolic slow-down. You would be able to eat low calorie one day, and then the next day, rev the metabolism. This is a great idea, but the metabolism is not that sensitive. It takes years of following a specific calorie level to change the metabolism. Instead, Find Your Perfect Calorie Level If your goal is weight loss, finding the perfect calorie level is the key. It is tricky, but if you create a calorie deficit that is not too low, you can trick the brain into thinking you are not dieting. You will not get as hungry, will still stay satisfied, and keep the metabolism revved. This type of calorie level usually results in .5 to 2 pounds of weight loss per week. The One Positive Following the alternate day diet can actually keep you satisfied with your food intake. Knowing that you can have a normal calorie level some days and only have to deprive yourself a few days is a relief for many. However, the positive does not outweigh the negatives. Have you ever tried this high calorie, low calorie diet?

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Why Alternate Day Dieting is Disastrous

Should You Give Into the Coconut Water Fad?

admin — Thu, 10 May 2012 06:00:02 +0000

Some parts of the world are moving into the warmer months and the heat is on! This means more sweating and fluid loss if exercising outside. Instead of an unnatural sports drink like Powerade or Gatorade , why not try natural coconut water? Afterall, it’s everywhere and there’s good reason to give into the coconut water fad. Nutritional Benefits Excellent electrolyte source : Over 500 mg potassium per serving (more than a banana), and also contains sodium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. 2000-3500 mg of potassium is recommended daily. No added sugar: Naturally occurring sugars Lower acidity Detoxifying Prevents dehydration Heart healthy: Due to the high levels of potassium Prevent or helps improve kidney stones Just because this beverage sounds like a natural health elixir doesn’t mean you should drink it all day long. More is not always better. Those with any kidney conditions or concerns should never consume high potassium drinks or foods without discussing with their doctor first. Watch the Calories Even though the beverage is labeled as a type of “water” this does not mean low calorie. One 8.5 oz. serving is about 45 calories, and 15 g carbohydrate (11 g sugar) . It is recommended to drink a “sports beverage” only after 60 minutes of exercise. Any duration that is shorter is considered not long enough to lose enough calories/fluid/electrolytes to consider a supplemental beverage. Coconut water is ideal for higher sweat activities like Bikram yoga, cycling, or high heat exercise. Brand to Buy Vita Coco sent me a few free samples of their coconut water to try. I like their brand because it is all natural and made with pure coconut water and some vitamin C to keep it fresh. They also have some flavors with some fruit puree added. This adds about 9 grams of sugar per serving. There are other brands out there like Zico or O.N.E. coconut water that are very similar. It just depends on your personal preference. Have you tried coconut water for your sport’s beverage?

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Should You Give Into the Coconut Water Fad?

Watch Out for Hidden Ingredients in Frozen Yogurt

admin — Tue, 01 May 2012 06:00:11 +0000

Frozen yogurt may be fat free or low fat, but that doesn’t mean sugar free or low calorie. Be aware of the amount of sugar that you may still be consuming at these popular frozen yogurt stores. The word “Yogurt” Doesn’t always equal “healthy”….. Frozen Yogurt Chains Pinkberry : ½ cup of chocolate frozen yogurt contains only 15 grams of sugar (some of this from the natural milk lactose), 120 calories, and 15% of your daily value for calcium. Yoforia : Uses only organic dairy from Stonyfield Farms and similar companies. ½ cup serving= 19 grams sugar Yogurtland : Has some flavors that contain no added sugar for 80 calories and 6 grams sugar per ½ cup. But, this means those are sweetened with aspartame and acesulfame potassium. TCBY : Also has some flavors with no sugar added, but uses Splenda and sugar alcohols instead of aspartame making this a slightly better choice. Other flavors are about 17 grams of sugar per ½ cup. Does contain some nasty additives like propylene glycol. Red Mango : A “cleaner” frozen yogurt that is all natural, gluten free, and uses no high fructose corn syrup. ½ cup is still about 20 grams sugar. Yogurt Mountain : Contains the most preservatives and additives like polysorbate 80, sodium benzoate, and food colorings. Tutti Frutti : Offers soy frozen yogurt for those with food sensitivities or allergies! What to Watch Out For High fructose corn syrup , and processed milk is often what you are paying for when you buy frozen yogurt. Look for more natural chains like Yoforia and Red Mango that are either all natural or use organic ingredients. Don’t forget about the toppings! Some may contain trans fat like the cookie dough bites, or other cookie and candy add-ons. Choose fruits instead to add an antioxidant (and fiber) punch! Don’t believe the probiotic claims. Many of the active cultures are killed in the yogurt processing. “Tart” yogurt does not mean less sugar. They have the same, or even more, grams of sugar. Moderation is Key Of course you can enjoy some frozen yogurt. It is often a lighter, lower calorie choice. The most important thing is to watch your serving size. Don’t fill up the giant bowl they give you. Use half a fist as a good visual for a ½ cup portion. Then, top with some fruit, and you have a nice and light treat! Do you enjoy frozen yogurt?

Healthy Microwavable Brown Rice?

admin — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:02:11 +0000

By now we know that we should be choosing brown rice over white rice. But, is it important to slow cook brown rice for 50 minutes? Or, can we save time and buy microwavable brown rice and still get the same health benefits ? Almost Identical to Slow Cook Brown Rice The short is answer is yes, buying microwavable brown rice gets you similar (if not identical) nutrients to slow cook brown rice. There may be some extra health benefits from choosing parboiled brown rice (form that is found in microwavable rice). May increase the B vitamin content in the brown rice due to increased soaking of the grain. Improves the grain’s ability to act as a resistant starch . These resistant starches may help to improve satiety, decrease insulin response, improve fat metabolism, and improve digestive health. How Important is it to Eat Brown Rice? Brown rice still has the bran and germ intact making the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals still intact. White rice removes everything except the endosperm (starch) leaving it devoid of nutrients. Additionally, the white rice creates a greater insulin response , meaning diabetics and those sensitive to changing insulin levels should limit their white rice consumption. All brown rice contains 88% of your daily value for manganese (per 1 cup). Manganese helps to form superoxide dismutase—a scientific name for a potent antioxidant “helper”. So, brown rice can help us ward off free radicals! Brands to Buy Uncle Ben’s Microwavable Ready Rice Annie Chun’s Sprouted Brown Sticky Rice Minsley Cooked Organic Brown Rice Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice Minute Ready to Serve Brown Rice Cups Hinode 90 Second Brown Rice You could always make the slow cook ahead of time, and keep it in the refrigerator for a few days. When you are ready to eat it, just microwave! Have you tried the microwavable brown rice?

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Healthy Microwavable Brown Rice?

Hummus: Not Always a Healthy Choice

admin — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 06:00:19 +0000

Hummus has become more popular as a dipping sauce or condiment of choice for the health conscious. It is a traditional Middle Eastern spread made of pureed chickpeas, olive oil , and seasonings. Although it seems healthy, always double check your favorite brand’s ingredient list and what you are eating the hummus with. Popular Hummus Brands Sabra: 70-90 calories, 6-7 g fat, 125-135 mg sodium , potassium sorbate as the preservative. The negative is that Sabra uses soybean oil (may also use canola oil) as the main fat source which is a polyunsaturated fat and does not have anti-inflammatory properties like olive oil. Athenos: 50 calories, 3 g fat, 140-160 mg sodium . Made with olive oil, and uses sodium benzoate as the preservative. FYI: When sodium benzoate combines with potassium benzoate and vitamin C, it forms small amounts of benzene which is carcinogen. Cedar’s: Average is 50 calories, 3 g fat, 120 mg sodium . Organic and fat free varieties available. Uses a blend of oils, and sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate as preservatives. Higher Calorie Restaurant Hummus Negatives: Restaurants will usually add extra oil to their hummus. It is often a thinner consistency and topped with an extra drizzle of olive oil. Watch out for processed white breads or crackers that may be served with the hummus. Ask for sliced vegetables to keep it healthy. Positives : There are usually less preservatives and additives ; the hummus is a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats from the oils, and it is a great way to add flavor to your vegetables. Make Hummus at Home You can make four or five times the amount of hummus for the same cost (or less!) as one store bought container, and you will get rid of the extra preservatives and some sodium. Longer Method: Take the chickpeas/garbanzo beans, and heat them on the stove top with seasonings. Then, blend or puree with lemon juice, tahini (sesame seed paste), and olive oil. Quick Method: Buy dehydrated chickpea meal, and then stir in water, spices, tahini, and olive oil. This process only takes 5 minutes, and I have found you can achieve a smoother, yet thicker consistency. Overall, hummus gives us a variety of flavor options for making vegetables more exciting. Hummus can also take the place of a mayonnaise or cheese on a sandwich! Do you eat hummus? If so, how do you like it?

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Hummus: Not Always a Healthy Choice

Zero Carb Aged Parmesan Crisps

admin — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 06:02:55 +0000

Traditional chip companies have been losing some market share because of the popularity of low carb eating. Companies like Kitchen Table Bakers have been trying to fill the low carb snacking void by snatching those former chip eaters and those wanting gluten-free snacks. I was recently sent three varieties of their Parmesan Crisps to sample. Here’s what I thought of these zero carb snacks. I’m a Huge Fan of Parmesan I love parmesan cheese, in fact, it’s one of my favorite cheeses. And, guess what? These crisps are just parmesan cheese and nothing else! No Gluten, no sugar, no preservatives, nothing but cheese . Now they do have flavored ones, eight, in all. Even then, they are just parmesan cheese and the herb or spice used. For instance, The Basil Pesto variety is just parm, basil, and garlic. The flavors available are: Aged Parmesan Sesame Rosmary Flax Seed Garlic Basil Pesto Jalapeno Everything Nutrition Because these are just cheese, the total fat content and saturated fat are a little high with 63% of their calories coming from fat. However, 3 crisps will deliver 7 grams of protein and 20% of your daily calcium . The sodium is from the salt in the cheese and is moderate. The serving size is rather small and there are around 18 crisps per pack. I could see some people having trouble stopping at just 3 crisps, since they are so tasty. This would deliver 480 calories and 36 grams of fat , so eater beware! Should You Try Them? Overall, I would recommend these snacks. Since they are all-natural, I felt good about eating them and they certainly are enjoyable to eat. I just think some will have trouble only eating the recommended serving size. Also, If you aren’t a fan of parmesan cheese, then Parmesan Crisps wouldn’t be for you. Kitchen Table Bakers’ products can be found online or at WholeFoods stores nationwide as well as other select natural food type stores around the USA.

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Zero Carb Aged Parmesan Crisps

5 Quick Swimsuit Slim Downs

admin — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 06:11:59 +0000

As swimsuit season approaches in parts of the world, many fear getting into the dreaded bathing suit. Not quite ready for your swimsuit debut? Don’t worry. These tips can help you look and feel your best even if you haven’t reached your goal weight yet! Be Swimsuit Ready in a Few Hours Do lunges and squats shortly before you bare your swimsuit. This will help to pump blood to your leg muscles and give them a fuller, more firm, and toned appearance. Think of how body builders do exercises before their show to temporarily appear more toned. This is the same concept, but you too can do it at home. Avoid bloat with anti-bloat foods. Unsalted nuts , yogurt, or a simple nut butter sandwich are good choices before heading to the pool. Choose low sodium foods, and nothing too high in fiber (temporarily) to avoid feeling and looking bloated. Drink plenty of water to flush toxins and extra water weight. And avoid carbonated beverages and sodas. Give self tanners a chance. Some think of it as streaky orange goo while others are using self tanner to create a slimmed and toned appearance. Self tanner has come a long way and no longer has such an orange appearance. Airbrush tanning businesses can even create the look of six pack abs. Choose the right swimsuit for your shape . This doesn’t apply to men since there are only a few varieties. Weight Watchers and Fitness Magazine have some good recommendations for different body types. Perfect your posture. This is the most important since posture shows confidence and high self esteem no matter what your weight is. Practice carrying yourself with shoulders back, chest forward, and head up. An added bonus is that good posture can help flatten the abdominals! Do you have any tips for swimsuit season?

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5 Quick Swimsuit Slim Downs

How to Change Habits for Good

admin — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 14:00:57 +0000

Good health habits and behaviors are the key to a long term healthy weight. Do you ever feel that bad habits are holding you back from your goal? It is not too late to change. Practice these few tips and you will be on your way to long term health. Continue reading…

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How to Change Habits for Good

Kombucha Tea is Everywhere, Buyer Beware

admin — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:00:31 +0000

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that has a mild sparkling taste. This cold tea is made with a cluster of bacteria and yeast that feed on sugar. Scared yet? Don’t be! It seems like a science project beverage, but it boasts plenty of health benefits. When the bacteria and yeast ferment, healthy chemicals and vitamins are produced. Continue reading…

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Kombucha Tea is Everywhere, Buyer Beware