Category : Article
Posted in Article on February 21, 2012
So the Chinese have had green tea now for around 4,000 years. They’re keen with herbs and stuff, and they stick with green tea’s ability to help you lose weight. Case in point: the Japanese. Their society is literally addicted to green tea, with local demand pushing the local supply of high-grade green tea to the limit. And if you notice, it’s rare to find overweight Japanese. And they attest it all to their insatiable thirst for green tea.
So here’s the question: are green tea weight loss diets plausible?
The quick answer to that question is a resounding yes! Whether through drinking green tea or through dietary supplements, green tea weight loss diets revolve around the time-tested reliability of green tea to help in weight reduction.
Green tea weight loss: The Scientific Studies
The Study:
There is this physiologist, William Rumpler, who’s currently investigating the effects of green tea on the energy expenditure and fat oxidation of the body when exposed to green tea. In English, that means your body’s generation of energy for you to work and the tendency to burn up fat for fuel. Both are ways for you to lose weight.
The only weight-reducing component that they’ve identified in green tea is the caffeine. However, when they had other subjects consume caffeinated water instead of full-strength green tea, they experienced some strange results. Not surprisingly, the subjects who took full-strength green tea had significantly greater energy expenditure and fat oxidation levels in their body.
The Implications:
All they could do is attribute the weight-loss effects of green tea to confounding variables. Simply put, this means that they don’t know what the heck it is in green tea that helps people lose weight. The only thing the scientists are sure about is that it helps you lose weight. More studies in this field will probably isolate what makes you lose weight when you drink green tea.
But no matter what research will yield, they’ve already proven the fact that green tea weight loss diets work. And that’s what really counts.
The Bonuses:
Other related studies about green tea indicate that not only will you lose weight, but you’ll also have a healthier life in the process: antioxidants help clean up the damaging free radicals that float around in your body, your intestinal track is less likely to absorb excess cholesterol, and your risk to get cancer is significantly lowered.
What more could you ask from green tea weight loss diets? You get what you want and even more, all for just drinking a couple of cups a day!
The Wrap-up
Green tea weight loss diets not only help you lose weight, but you’re losing it naturally and healthily. There’s no need to take in chemical poisons to lose weight; no need to undergo surgical procedures that’ll cost a small fortune and create a scar on your body. All you need is a healthy lifestyle complemented by a green tea weight loss diet, and you’re sure to go down the road to a slim and healthy future.
Mull about it over a cup of green tea.
Posted in Article on February 19, 2012
Want to know the one thing that you should be consuming more often than anything else if you really want to win the battle of the bulge? That’s right – it’s water! Most doctors agree that you should be consuming at least several eight ounce glasses of water per day as is, but if you’re looking to diet, it’s not a bad idea to carry around a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
Why is this? Well, for one, water helps fill your stomach. We of course do not suggest that you skip out on meals in favor of water, but staying well hydrated can help you manage your food cravings. Many people eat when instead their bodies are actually craving water! Keeping a bottle of water at your side throughout the day helps stave off the cravings to eat and will keep your fuller for a longer period of time after meals. Another great trick in using water to lose weight is to take a sip of water between every bite of food you take at a meal. This also helps fill your stomach and lets you eat slower, so your stomach has time to transmit signals of fullness to your brain. Many people keep eating long after their stomach is actually full, and pausing for water is a way to help your body register its food intake.
However, there’s one thing that many people do when it comes to the consumption of water that can totally be a budget breaker: buying bottled water. The proliferation of bottled water in our society has reached epic proportions – to the point where some states have actually launched campaigns to educate consumers that tap water is drinkable. Remember that: tap water is entirely consumable and there is absolutely no reason to go out and spend twenty dollars on bottled water every week.
Instead, why not spend five dollars on a reusable water bottle and keep on filling it up? It’s a great way to not only be health conscious and cost conscious, but also environmentally conscious! Think of all those used plastic water bottles that end up in the landfills each year. It’s entirely wasteful and needless, seeing as how tap water is drinkable everywhere in the United States and even restaurants will give it to you for free.
So, be a smart dieter and an even smarter consumer by not giving in to the bottled water companies. You’ll save hundreds if not thousands of dollars a year by sticking to tap water and reusable bottles, and you’ll be saving the environment at the same time. Oh, and losing weight!
Posted in Article on February 18, 2012
You have been thinking a lot lately about wanting to lose weight, but you don’t feel that you will be able to do it on your own. Is that right? Perhaps you are looking for a diet program that will offer you support to help you lose weight. Well there are several different programs, which are available to help you reach your goals.
One of the most popular ones is the Nutri System Program. The Nutri System is simply a weight loss program that portion controls your meals for you. It is also one of the more affordable weight loss programs which are available today.
One of the primary reasons, why some people don’t join Nutri System, is simply that they don’t know how the program works. Really it is a very simple process. The program will provide you with an online analysis program to help you calibrate your total calorie requirements. From the calorie requirements that you require you will then be able to calculate your meal plan. Once you have done this all you have to do is sit back and wait for your meals to arrive because they will arrive right to your doorstep.
Your Nutri System weight loss program has some real distinct advantages.
* You will see a weight loss of one to two pounds on average every week. (Provided you stick with the plan)
* All of your meals are provided for you. You don’t even need to go to the store or have to go somewhere to pick them up, because they are delivered right to your doorstep.
* There is online support that is available to you
* A weight loss counselor will contact you and help you in your weight loss goals
* All of your meals are portioned controlled. They are all low in fat, the carbohydrates are controlled, and they also contain protein. If you are a woman that is looking at losing weight you will get approximately 1200 calorie meals and for a male you will receive approximately 1500 calorie meals daily.
* The membership is absolutely free all you have to do is pay for the cost of your meals.
* They have programs for everyone including vegetarians and diabetics
* They will provide you with free exercise programs as well as a meal planner
These are all great advantages arent they? Now the next question that you are probably asking yourself is who is the Nutri System program good for? The Nutri System is good for anyone who is looking for support for a short time frame by providing you with portion controlled meals that will help you get back on track.
So as you can see there are many great advantages to joining the Nutri System weight loss program. If you are serious about losing weight you need to truly consider giving them a try. However, it is important to check with your doctor, to determine if you may have underlying health problems which could flare up while on the Nutri System plan.
Posted in Article on February 16, 2012
When you have hit a plateau and your triceps just do not seem to be gaining anymore muscle, grab the cables. Working out the triceps with cables will get you over the hump so you can still build your muscles. There is a difference when working with cables versus working with weights. The cables are going to keep the tension on the triceps the entire time you do the extensions. By keeping the tension on the triceps they will not get to rest so the muscles will start building up again.
There are many different cable tricep extension exercises that can be done when working out. Always make sure when doing the tricep extensions that you are doing the exercise correctly.
When doing the one arm tricep extension select the amount of weight you will work with. Then stand straight with one foot in front of your body and the other behind your body. It will look like you are walking just in smaller steps. Make sure you are standing right in front of the stack of weights. With your palm facing the ceiling grab the handle of the pulley. Slowly pull the handle until your arm is bent just a little under 90 degrees. Your forearm will be next to your body almost at waist level.
Once you are in position pull the handle all the way down until your arm is straight. If you are moving the upper part of your arm then you are doing the exercise incorrectly. The only part that will be moving in this motion is the forearm. Exhale as you are bringing your forearm down.
While your arm is straight down tighten your triceps. Hold the triceps tight for just a second. Then inhale and bring the forearm back up into your starting position. Continue performing this until all the repetitions are done then switch hands and start the whole procedure again.
For the low cable tricep extension select your weight then lay on your back on the bench. With knees bent place each foot flat on the ground on each side of the bench. Make sure your head is laying flat and pointing at the weights. With your palms facing towards each other grab the ends of the rope. Your elbows will point toward the sky and your hands will point at the machine.
While exhaling pull your forearms straight up so they are pointing at the sky. Once again only move your forearms and not your upper arm. While the forearms are pointing straight up tighten the triceps. Hold them tight for a few seconds then start inhaling as you go back to the starting position. Continue through all the motions until you have completed all your repetitions.
Both of these cable tricep extension exercises will help build the muscles again when you have hit a plateau with free weights.
While still concentrating on the triceps, get ready to work them out some more with the weighted bench dips.
Posted in Article on February 14, 2012
The American Heart Association has taken the time to compare quick weight loss to fad diets. This is quite helpful for the serious dieter seeking the best form of weight loss. Based on their findings they have been able to provide the information that is informative so a logical and critical decision can be made for dieting. The following is information from the AHA on different diets and their effects.
The Cabbage Soup Diet is said to undermine the health, cause physical discomfort in the abdominal regions such as gas and leads to a disappointment when using this diet.
Many quick weight loss diets claim to be endorsed or authorized by the AHA yet this is not true. The AHA recommends diets that are flexible in the food selection and stresses the importance of nutrient rich diets with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients essential to a healthy diet.
Many of the popular diets do not encourage physical activity or exercise. The AHA recommends walking 30 minutes at least three times a week for the physical activity that will promote weight loss. The lack of physical activity is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke.
Since the quick weight loss diets often change the eating habits of the person during the time of dieting but fail to teach how to create healthy eating habits that lead to prolonged weight management. The fact many lack this information leads the dieter to return to the old eating habits that caused the original weight gain and they will eventually gain back lost weight.
Many of the quick weight loss diets are based on myths about dieting instead of the current facts. AHA does not substantiate the concepts of fat-burning foods and food combining. They consider these concepts myths and suggest they be avoided when possible.
The only true weight loss diet includes a proper diet rich in grains, fruits, vegetables, fiber, low fat, and dairy products that is balanced and nutritional as well as physical activity. Many quick weight loss diets lack these elements so the AHA does not recommend using these diets.
The best way to lose weight is with a healthy diet that is balanced as well as adding physical activity as a regimen that not only provides a weight loss for the individuals but also increases their body’s level of health. The AHA has guidelines available on their website that list the right diets and physical activities to implement to lose weight effectively with lasting results. Education on the dieting is essential to creating a healthy life style and body. The AHA has support groups, diet planners, suggestions, tips, and other dieting information that will transform anyone’s life into a healthier and more productive life.
Posted in Article on February 10, 2012
Taking the time to know the facts about heart disease is one of the first steps to help with prevention. Here are some facts relating to heart disease that may help you with your battle so you can win easily.
1. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women in America.
2. Heart disease death rate per 100,000 populations for the five largest cities in the U.S. based on racial and ethnic groups are Hispanics 69.2, Asians and Pacific Islanders 73, American Indians 82.5, Blacks 189.8, and Whites 235.5.
3. Coronary heart disease is the principle type of heart disease. In 2005 over 445,000 died of coronary heart disease, which equals 68.3of all heart disease deaths that year.
4. 47of all cardiac deaths occur before emergency services or transportation to the hospital.
5. Heart disease is projected to cost more than $304.6 billion, which includes the health care services, medications, and time off work.
6. In 2005, more that 7.6 million people died from heart disease worldwide.
7. Risk factors noted in 2003-2004 for adults with heart disease were contributed to 32.1of people 20 years or older with hypertension or taking medication for hypertension; 16.9of people 20 years or older with high cholesterol; 10of people 20 years or older with doctor diagnosed diabetes; 32of people 20 years or older with obesity; 18.4of people 18 years or old that smoked; and 39.5of people 18 years or older that did not have a standard exercise regimen.
8. 37in 2003 reported having two or more of the risk factors for heart disease and stroke, which include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, current smoking, physical inactivity, obesity, and diabetes.
9. In 2005, 92of people suffering from chest pains recognized the symptoms of the possible heart attack with only 27correctly knowing they were having a heart attack and contacted the emergency authorities for assistance. Timely access to emergency services can mean the difference between life and death. Knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attacks can and will save your life when you act accordingly.
10. According to studies, people with heart disease can lower their risks of heart attacks when they lower their cholesterol and blood pressure as well as avoiding needing surgery for heart bypass and angioplasty. To reduce the risks, take the steps to lower the blood pressure and cholesterol.
11. According to studies of people without heart disease, they reduce their potential risks of heart disease by lowering their cholesterol and high blood pressure.
When a person changes their unhealthy life style patterns, they reduce the risks of heart disease and strokes.
Posted in Article on February 5, 2012
For many people trying to eat healthy can be a challenge. Who doesn?t have a busy life, going to work and then coming home to take your children to various after school activities? No wonder people just eat and run and don?t pay that much attention to what they are eating.
Eventually though, your busy lifestyle will catch up with you. You will start to feel tired and maybe begin to get sick more often. But there is something that you can do about this. You can add a few natural supplements to your diet.
This could be in the form of a natural vitamin or as a natural breakfast or lunch type of supplement. These supplements can provide you with more energy and nutrients and give you enough fuel to get through the day.
You may even be using supplements and vitamins but are not getting enough benefits from them. This could be due to the ingredients in the products. Natural or organic supplements will have less chemicals and preservatives in them. The result is that they will provide your body with more valuable nutrition and your body will respond accordingly.
It is very true that the quality of your supplements matter, you wouldn?t run your car with low grade oil or bad gas would you? When purchasing a natural supplement whether in pill or powder form look at the list of ingredients and the instructions on how to take it. You can buy the best supplement in the world but if you don?t take it correctly you won?t receive the best benefits.
Some natural supplements are best taken on an empty stomach while others suggest that you eat a piece of fruit before taking them. Make sure you know how to take it, the proper serving size and how often the supplement can be safely used.
There are literally tons of natural supplements available on the market today. Some are meal replacements while others give you added calcium or protein. Body builders for example use natural supplements with added protein as this helps them build muscles more effectively.
Then of course there are natural supplements for weight loss. If you are not sure which supplements to choose think about the reason to wish to start using one? Is it to lose weight or maybe to just get better nutrition? If you have any major concerns then it is best to check with your family doctor before taking any natural supplements.
Posted in Article on February 3, 2012
Going out and exercising in order to relax might sound a little strange to you but bear with me. It has been shown that exercising produces hormones that make your feel good. So it really makes sense to do certain exercises to help you feel better and get you feeling more relaxed.
If you think about it when you are uptight and anxious you are not relaxed you are the opposite, cranky and stressed out. Finding ways to relax is very important to your well being and will make a huge difference in your life.
One of the best exercises for relaxation is to go out walking. Your choice of walking route is important too. Obviously you will start to feel more relaxed if you walk in a park or by a lake, as opposed to walking on busy city streets.
Many experts recommend walking with a dog as therapy. Great if you have a dog but if not you could offer to volunteer at your local pet shelter and walk a dog. This provides you with a reason to go out walking and your new friend will enjoy your visits.
Walking in the fresh air gives you time to think and reflect about your day. As you walk concentrate on feeling the breeze on your face and take in the smells of the trees and plants. See if you can?t hear the birds chirping. All of these things will put a smile on your face and make you feel more relaxed almost immediately.
While walking you should concentrate on your breathing and take some nice deep breathes. As you?re walking pace increases try to think of nothing but your walking and the surrounding sounds. This walking meditation method has been shown to be a wonderful stress reliever.
Other forms of exercise that can help you feel more relaxed are Yoga, swimming, dancing and even going out for a bike ride. All of these activities put you into different surroundings which affect your mood, all for the better.
Music is a great way to relax and taking up a new dance routine is an excellent idea. You could do this at home or by joining a local dance class such as a Zumba class. As well this gets you mingling with other people and provides some light recreation after a hectic day. Why not start a new exercise routine and see if it doesn?t make a difference?
Posted in Article on February 1, 2012
For someone being obese, health problem risks are greatly elevated. The extra weight can cause physical problems like bone and joint problems. And things like diabetes, heart disease, cancers and other serious conditions are more likely to occur. For those who are being obese, health problem risks often center around a condition known as metabolic syndrome.
For someone being obese, heath problem risks are generally directly tied to this syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is just a term for a cluster of conditions that tend to occur together. The presence of these conditions is a pretty good indicator about future health.
For instance, someone with metabolic syndrome is going to have a much higher chance of heart disease, stroke or diabetes than someone who doesn’t have the condition. For people who have one or two of the conditions that make up metabolic syndrome, their risk of these serious diseases is still a little less than someone with a full-on case.
The conditions that are generally present in metabolic syndrome include:
- Obesity. People with metabolic syndrome are generally obese, often with much of their body fat centered in their stomach, giving them an “apple” shape.
- High blood triglycerides (fat).
- High blood pressure.
- Low HDL cholesterol levels. This is high-density lipoprotein, also known as the “good” cholesterol. Having a low good cholesterol level has been found to be more dangerous. than having a high “bad” cholesterol, or LDL (low-density lipoprotein) level.
- Insulin resistance.
A person can have one or two of those conditions without having metabolic syndrome. But their risks for developing the other conditions is very high. In fact, having just one of the conditions listed above makes it very likely that you’ll develop the others.
Being obese, health problem risks are elevated, but there are some factors in metabolic syndrome that a person can’t control. A family history of diabetes, for instance, puts a person at greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
Age and race are also factors. Asians and Hispanics tend to develop metabolic syndrome at a greater rate than other races. And the older a person gets, the greater the risk of developing the syndrome.
But for the most part, the conditions that make up the syndrome and the syndrome itself are preventable. And there are no special drugs or treatments required to prevent or reverse metabolic syndrome.
The first recommendation, whether you want to prevent the syndrome or reverse it, is to eat a healthy diet. Choose whole foods like whole grains, fruits and vegetables and avoid carb-laden, starchy processed foods. Don’t drink sodas or other sugar-rich beverages, but opt for water instead.
The next step is to get some exercise. Walk for a half an hour or so each day. That’s all it takes. This along with a healthy diet can help you lose weight, the third thing to do to defeat metabolic syndrome. Being obese, health problem risks including that of metabolic syndrome are elevated if you smoke, so quit smoking and you’ll be on your way to preventing or reversing the disease.
Posted in Article on January 31, 2012
When you are dieting you are probably like many and have two things on your mind. You want to be able to lose the weight and keep the weight off permanently. Well ask yourself have you ever met anyone that has done this? Have you yourself done it?
How many different diet programs have you personally been on? Were you able to achieve a permanent weight loss as a result? Well if you were lucky enough to do this then congrats because you are one in about a million.
At some point in your life you will most likely fall for one diet plan after another. You are able to lose a few pounds, but sadly you soon put the weight right back on and you become depressed as a result. To avoid this, you need to ask yourself if you have ever been on a diet that has been exciting.
Well of course on any new diet which you may have tried, you might be excited at first, but only because you are losing weight; but not for the program in and of itself. The main reasons why most of your diets fail are because:
1. You happen to get bored due to the strictness of the program.
2. Dieting ends up making you think of food especially what foods you are able to eat and what ones you are not.
3. You have programmed your mind in believing that any of the diet programs are only temporary.
Each and every diet plan that you will go on will tell you that you need to change your eating habits and your lifestyle. Chances are you will actually do it, temporarily, and that is where the real problem begins. A diet by all means is a temporary fix.
You want to be able to lose a certain amount and when you accomplish your goal; you are now wondering what you should do. You do not have the ability to stay on a diet forever unless you make a complete change of your lifestyle in general.
When you go to change your overall lifestyle it will take a lot of will power, which if you’re like many of the United States population you do not have. You will get cravings as well as the munchies. When you become bored and depressed you answer that with food it’s a normal reaction for many of us. It is even hard for you to sit there and watch TV without having the urge to chew on something. This is the way of many, many Americans. TV, chips or popcorn.
Changing the way you live, in general, may leave you feeling depressed and alone. You want to feel comfortable. You do not like to be told you cannot do a certain thing. You know what you should do but when you actually do, it is a completely different issue.
Losing weight permanently, does require a complete lifestyle change and for most people it is not something that they are willing to undertake, are you? However, permanent weight loss is very possible, when you make the major lifestyle changes called for.
