Fat Loss 4 Idiots Secret

Monday, May 25, 2009

The Foundation Of Protein Supplements: Protein Sources

By Henrick Scofers

Protein is an essential nutrient for the body, especially for the muscles. The general recommendation is an intake of around .3 grams of protein for each pound a person weighs. For athletes and bodybuilders, though, the requirement is higher because the body is working harder and demands more. The recommendation jumps from .3 to 1.25 grams for this group of people.

It's not only how much protein you get though; it's also where it comes from that matters. While most of us get all the protein we need from our diets, athletes often need supplements to provide them with enough of this important nutrient. The protein used in protein supplements is nearly always from the same four sources. Each is used differently by the body and are more or less suitable for different individuals.

The four protein sources common in protein supplements are whey, soy, casein and egg. While some protein supplements are made from just one source, most often there will be protein from two of these sources in a given protein supplement.

Whey protein comes from milk and is the most common of these four sources used to produce protein supplements. This protein contains essential amino acids (those which we cannot produce ourselves and must take in through dietary sources) and nonessential amino acids. Except for people who are allergic to milk or have lactose intolerance (who should avoid whey protein), this is a great source of protein which is readily digested. Concentrated whey contains 30%-85% protein and is inexpensive, making it a common ingredient in protein supplements. Whey protein isolates contain around 90% protein by weight, but are far more costly. Whey protein helps improve immune function and speeds muscle recovery in addition to being a good source.

Soy protein is made from soy flour and is the most complete plant-based protein available. Just as with whey powder, there are soy protein concentrates and isolates, with the isolate being a richer source of protein but also more costly. Soy protein is also easily digestible and is suitable for persons with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. There are however some people who are allergic to soy and obviously, these people should not use soy-based protein supplements. Soy protein can be mixed into foods to increase the protein content and has the added benefit of helping to regulate cholesterol levels.

Egg protein is often mentioned as being the best protein supplements. This protein comes from egg whites and is quickly and completely digestible. Containing all of the essential amino acids, it's also a popular ingredient in protein supplements. However, there are those who are allergic to eggs and should not use protein supplements containing egg protein.

Casein is also a milk protein. Digested at a slower rate than whey, casein protein is often used in combination with other proteins which are more quickly available to the body for sustained nourishment. Casein protein is a good choice for meals prior to workouts and for taking before bed. Like whey protein, casein protein should be avoided by the lactose intolerant and those with milk allergies.

When you're shopping for protein supplements, always read the label to make sure that the protein sources used are suitable for your needs and that you can safely ingest. Protein supplements can be a great thing " but make sure you choose well. - 17274

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Raise Your Fat Loss At The Exercise Room

By Oscar Mills

Many people want to get fit and lose some weight. Joining a gym and starting a good exercise program is a good first step but when you get to the gym you will notice that not everybody there is getting results. Going to the gym in not the answer but what you are doing once you get there is what will make the difference for you.

If you are going to see any results from an exercise program you are going to have to work hard and break a sweat. That means getting your heart rate up into the target zones and keeping it there. There is some evidence that if you keep your heart rate at the lower end of the zone for a longer period of time that your body will actually burn more fat than carbohydrates, however, that does not necessarily translate to weight loss.

Burning fat stores as an energy source when you exercise is not nearly as important as the amount of calories that you burn altogether. For instance you may burn 350 calories from fat during an easy 60 minute workout but if you add in some challenging high intensity intervals during that same 60 minutes you could end up burning 750 to 1000 calories or more and that will help your body lose weight much more efficiently.

High Intensity Interval Training or HIIT for short is one of the most effective fat loss regimens that you can use to lose weight. The idea is to maximize your heart rate to 90% or more for a period of 30 to 60 seconds and then bring it back down and repeat. Make sure that during your rest periods though you are still in the target-training zone, just at the lower end. When you incorporate HIIT you will be so much more efficient that you can even cut your cardio workout time in half and still have better results.

In order to determine your target heart rate training zone, take your age and subtract it from 220, then take that number and multiply it by 60% and 80%. This gives you a target heart-training zone. In order to see the best results you will need to keep your heart rate in that zone while you are doing your workout.

If you want to drop fat and lose weight for the long-term you will need to pump some iron. Building more muscle is key to long-term weight loss success. Muscle tissue is biologically active and you will burn more calories in daily life just by having more muscle tissue. Fat is basically an inert substance and it does not boost your calorie burn whatsoever.

But the most important aspect to getting results at the gym and losing fat actually happens outside of the gym. It has been said that 6-pack abs are not built at the gym but rather they are built in the kitchen. Diet is the most important aspect of any fitness plan. You can exercise all day long but if you have a poor diet you will not see any results. If you want to get into shape, make sure that you are consuming healthy nutritious foods on a regular basis and that you are avoiding the junk and nutritionally empty foods that are so prevalent in our society.

Maximum fat loss can be achieved by following a few fundamentals. Supercharge your cardio routine by adding in some HIIT, begin a solid weight-training program and improve your diet. If you do all of these basic things you should see some results quite quickly. - 17274

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Massage Chairs Provide Relief For Sufferers of Fibromyalgia and Polymyalgia

By Steve Esquire

If you suffer from pain in the joints and muscles areas then you may have polymyalgia. If you have stiffness in the ligaments and tendons then you may have fibromyalgia. Although both conditions can cause stiffness and pain, one involves the joints and muscles where as the other involves the ligaments and tendons. The result of either situation is the muscles become tense and stiff. A number of chiropractic doctors have been treating both conditions using massage chairs are some aspects of their treatment.

Fibromyalgia is termed a syndrome or a chronic illness. This syndrome can cause intense pain and extraordinary fatigue. Fibromyalgia affects the ligaments and tendons making them stiff. These symptoms can be prevalent in every part of the body. Muscular spasms and muscle burning are other common complaints of a person afflicted with fibromyalgia.

Polymyalgia is a rheumatic disorder and is commonly traced to the elderly. Most of these elderly have family descendents from the north of Europe. Most of the cases reported for polymyalgia are for women. The joints can become stiff making routine tasks difficult.

Natural methods such as massage therapy aim to restore flexibility of the muscles. Massage therapy along with stretching can help to restore flexibility in the joints. Massage chairs are used to deliver these types of therapies to help people with these conditions. To relieve the discomfort is very important to assist a persons positive outlook.

Like any we routine it starts with the basics. It's important to get a reinforcing routine going. Start your day with some light stretching. Help the major muscles that are stiff become more flexible. Perform light exercises to help build stamina and strength. Restore your muscles and joints with massage chair therapy.

In a situation of both fibromyalgia and polymyalgia, restoring flexibility to the joints muscles tendons and ligaments is of vital importance. Remember, as you stretch out your muscles that are stiff, most likely they will hurt when you start. You must overcome the pain of the stiffness in order to restore the flexibility in these areas.

You should think about getting a normal daily routine going. Think about doing light stretching in the morning followed by some light exercise and then a relaxing massage. Think of your healing process as a three-step cycle including stretching to improve flexibility, exercise to build strength and massage to restore health and vitality.

These two conditions are very debilitating to those with them. The constant dull sensation of pain and stiffness is tough to bear. Furthermore since research is preliminary, there is no cure. Relieving the symptoms is very important to those with this situation. Many sufferers have found a good friend with a massage chair.

Both of these conditions can be highly frustrating for patients, since there is no cure. The symptoms are the focus of treatment until a cure is found. In their frustration with seeking these measures many people do turn to alternative treatment to help themselves in relief of their pain symptoms. Many have found a massage chair as an indispensible tool in coping with both conditions.

Massage chairs provide effective massage therapy and have full body capability. Additional therapeutic treatments are included in massage chairs such as heating elements, traction systems and even music players. These help to restore the elasticity back to the soft tissue areas affected by these conditions. Consult with your health care professional on treatments that are right for your condition. - 17274

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Food And Vitamins Cellulite Sufferers Should Take

By El Bilson

Many women are starting to look into the kinds of food and vitamins cellulite sufferers need to take. Eliminating cellulite can be managed through some lifestyle modifications, and your desired result can be achieved if you just have the necessary discipline. Skin improvement and the reduction of cellulite can be visible in as early as eight weeks. All it usually takes is a simple health program that is done on a regular basis.

GET YOUR VITAMINS

The stress of our daily routines can really take a toll on our bodies. Because of this, we need to take multivitamins to keep us going. Multivitamins contain most of the basic vitamins our bodies need to keep us healthy. Vitamins are also required for healthy skin.

Research has determined that multivitamins may not be necessary however. This is because the food we eat everyday already contains most of the vitamins and minerals that we need. Thus, by simply eating the right kinds of food all the time, one can get all the nutrients needed by the body. This can save you money that would have otherwise been wasted on vitamins cellulite aside.

Nevertheless, the result of these studies do not negate the fact that there are specific amounts of multivitamins that our body needs each day in order to function properly. Even if you are sticking with a healthy diet, it can be hard to figure out how much of each vitamin you are consuming from food.

Our skin is very susceptible to poor diet habits. Most dermatologists suggest taking between 1 to 6 grams of Vitamin C everyday and 400 IU of natural Vitamin E. These requirements may not be reached if you just rely on the food you eat. This is where taking multivitamins come in. The vitamins cellulite sufferers need to take may vary, so it's important to consult your doctor.

HEALTHY FOODS

You are what you eat and What you sow is what you reap are two common quotes often related to our health. Cellulite is often a result of eating unhealthy foods on a regular basis. Often these habits are hard to break and thus we have trouble getting rid of cellulite.

Eating the right kinds of food can result in a healthier disposition overall, not just with your skin. Health experts recommend that we eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, oranges, broccoli, celery, carrots, beans, and nuts. Foods with high contents of fiber and protein are also of great importance.

By taking a break from unhealthy foods, you give your body a chance to heal. Get rid of junk foods and go only for low-fat and low-calorie alternatives. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking a lot of water and fresh fruit juices. Drinking a lot of liquids helps in eliminating toxins from the body. - 17274

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10 Years Younger In 10 Days

By Joanna Slip

How to look 10 years younger in 10 days as promoted on the Oprah show is generating a great deal of interest. The show was amazing in it's simplicity by focusing on eating commonly known foods. The benefits gained from eating healthy foods are often overlooked. According to Dr. Nicholas Perricone, certain foods help you look younger! According to Dr. Perricone and Dr. Oz eating "super foods" is easy. Oprah Winfrey did it. She wanted to look 10 years younger in 10 days and decided to try it.

What are the 10 Super foods? And are they easy to find? If the foods needed to make you look 10 years younger in 10 days are hard to find the it will be hard to keep at it. As luck would have it the foods are moderately common and some can even be found in pill or powder form which makes things even easier. The following is a list of the super foods that are supposed to make you look 10 years younger in 10 days as seen on the Oprah Winfrey Show.

1. Anything in the "Allium Family" - Garlic, scallions, chives, onions, leeks, and shallots do wonders for your helath. All can help your liver eliminate toxins and carcinogens. I love garlic but aren't fond of the others unless they are well cooked and hidden amongst other foods. In general, as a food group these are very inexpensive and very easy to find.

2. Barley - This grain can be used as a breakfast cereal, as a rice substitute and in soups and stews. Barley is also super high in fiber, helping metabolize cholesterol, fats, and carbohydrates. Barley is an ol-fashioned staple food. Barley is inexpensive and very easy to find.

3) Acai Berry - This little berry is one of the most nutritious, powerful and hyped foods in the world. It can often be found in juice form in natural food stores. Prior to the Oprah Show I had never heard of the acai berry. I will check at my local natural food store to find out about availability and pricing.

4) Green Foods - We all know to eat our spinach. Green Foods can also help manage cholesterol and blood pressure. Green foods like wheat and barley grasses can be bought in powder, tablet or juice form, and offer greater levels of nutrients than green leafy vegetables. The powder or the tablet form would be extremely easy to add to my daily food intake. Greens are easy to find and relatively inexpensive

5) Buckwheat: Seed & Grain - Buckwheat is loaded with protein. It also stabilizes blood sugars and is high in amino acids. Buckwheat is inexpensive and very easy to find. It does have an acquired taste though and is my least favorite of the super foods intended to make you look 10 years younger in 10 days..

6) Yogurt and Kefir - Yogurt and Kefir are cultured foods that contain healthful bacteria that aid immune function. Slightly more therapeutic and healthy than yogurt, Kefir supplies a complete protein, essential minerals, and some B vitamins. Yogurt is easy to find and inexpensive but make sure you buy yogurt with no added sugar. Kefir is slightly harder to find and slightly more expensive.

7) Nuts & Seeds - Nuts and seeds are an excellent source of nutrition. Walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and pistachio nuts contain Omega 3 fatty acids. Raw, unsalted nuts and seeds are healthiest for your heart. Nuts are easy to find and are moderately inexpensive. Try a small handful of nuts for a snack or sprinkle nuts on your salad or yogurt..

8. Beans & Lentils - You can reduce your cholesterol while beefing up on folic acid, antioxidants, and potassium. Try kidney, pinto, chickpeas, black, navy, soybeans, peas and/or lentils. The options within this grouping of foods is endless. Beans and lentils might be the easiest to enjoy of all of the super foods discussed on Oprah Winfrey?s show on how to look 10 years younger in 10 days. I eat chickpeas all the time in hummous. Hummous adds two superfoods together, namely chickpeas and garlic. Also with tahini (sesame paste) it potentially adds another category of super food. Hummous might be the perfect food.

9) Peppers - Both bell peppers, chili and hot peppers contain antioxidants and have a ton of Vitamin C. They also work as fat burners. In moderation hot peppers add a touch of spice to most dishes. Bell peppers are a great addition to most dishes or salads. Peppers are easy to find and can be inexpensive.

10. Sprouts - There are numerous varieties of sprouts. The most common are bean sprouts and alfalfa sprouts. They're a great source of both Vitamin C and protein.. Try adding them to any dish and your immune system will get a turbo boost. These are both inexpensive and easy to find although be sure to wash them well. The easiest and least expensive way to get spouts is to sprout your own from any type of bean. - 17274

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Food Labeling Deception: The Lies They Tell You

By Curtis Ludlow

They're lying to you.

While it's not easy to always stay on top of the latest trends in nutrition, generally speaking, most people do their best to stay healthy. One problem is that restaurants and food manufacturers consistently lie about the quality and content of their food.

There are seven lies that they tell you. Here they are.

1. "carb smart," "net carb," "carb free lifestyle," and minimal impact on blood sugar.

Many people purchase items with these labels thinking that "carbs are bad". Lables will often say that they're carbs will have "a minimal impact on blood sugar". Remember, they still are sometimes high in calories that can make you fat.

2. "Low fat": Most foods may be described as "low fat" if there are no more than 3 grams of fat in a standard serving. Standard servings have been established by the FDA to reflect the amount of food that is typically consumed. Since will often be served foods much larger than the standard serving, a "low fat" food typically will contain large amounts of fat.

For example, pizza may be called "low fat" as long as there are no more than 3 grams of fat in a slice.

Frequently you are offered food portions much larger the typical serving size. So a single serving slice of pizza (3 grams of fat according to the label) could contain twelve grams of fat!

Also, keep in mind that even a small-sized serving of "low fat" main dishes like sandwiches, can have more than 3 grams of fat in a serving.

Remember, "low in fat" does not mean "low in calories."

3. "Light": May describe a food's taste, color, or texture, or it may indicate that the food's calorie, fat, or sodium content has been significantly reduced.

Food labels must clearly indicate what "light" is intended to convey. If the meaning is not clearly explained, you should seek clarification. If "light" indicates a reduction in calories, fat, or sodium, information about those nutrients should be provided.

4. "Cholesterol free": "Cholesterol free" claims are very popular but can also be very misleading. Keep in mind that:

"Cholesterol free" does not mean that it is a healthy food.

Foods like veal, foul, and scallops contain cholesterol -- even if they are cooked in "cholesterol free" oil.

Also, saturated fat and trans fat can raise your cholesterol level.

"Cholesterol free" foods often contain saturated fat. The FDA says that foods low in saturated fat must be described as "cholesterol free," but watch out -- most restaurants and manufacturers do not comply with this requirement.

The FDA allows foods with abundant amounts of trans-fats to be called "cholesterol free." To avoid trans-fats and limit your consumption of foods prepared with vegetable shortening or partially hydrogenated oils.

5. "Sugar free": Keep in mind that "sugar free" does not mean "calorie free" or "fat free." When foods are described as "sugar free" it does NOT mean that it is not low-calorie or reduced-calorie.

6. "Healthy": Food described as "healthy" must be low in fat and saturated fat and may not be high in cholesterol or sodium.

7. "Heart" claims: Claims like "heart-healthy," "heart smart," and "heart" symbols imply that a food may be useful in reducing the risk of heart disease. When such claims are made, the food must be low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, and must not be high in sodium. But keep in mind that most vendors will not always comply with these restrictions. - 17274

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How To Determine What Is The Best Acne Remedy For You.

By Clayton D.

Definition- Acne is defined as a skin condition caused by over active oil glands, blocking, clogging and plugging pores with skin, dirt and hair instead of evenly distributing oil over the skin surface. The exact cause of the acne must be established before a suitable acne remedy can be identified.

Identification- It is absolutely essential to identify and diagnose acne correctly, often very difficult to do as acne resembles many other skin problems. Acne features include excessive oil on skin surface, white and black heads and large lumps or bumps on or below skin surface.

Types- Acne can inflammatory and non-inflammatory in nature, depending how serious the condition is. White- and black heads are considered non-inflammatory acne. White heads form when oil and bacteria plugs pores just below skin surface. Whiteheads are least visible of all the acne types. Blackheads are formed in the exact same manner whiteheads do with oil and dirty plugging pores. However black heads' colour is derived from the melanin and oxidizes contained in the oil changing colour. Blacheads' are the most stubborn acne to get rid of. Washing or scrubbing alone will not be sufficient with sebum content taking a very long time to drain. Papule's and Pustules are inflammatory in nature due to the extreme pain and discomfort caused by the legions. Papules form with follicle wall breakage and white blood cells rushing to the pores causing intense inflammation after a couple of days. The inflammation may increase to such an extreme that the papules collapse totally and Nodules or Cysts are formed.

Causes- Acne break-outs can be triggered by an endless list of causes such as bad eating habits, lack of proper hygiene, insomnia, vitamin deficiency, stress, hormonal changes during puberty and pregnancy.

Treatment options- An endless range of acne treatment options are available from natural and herbal remedies to prescription medication in the form of antibiotics, ointments and topical creams.

Home remedies- Apple Cider Vinegar is a very effective acne remedy clearing both spots and acne scars. The vinegar should be dabbed on the spots and left overnight. Calamine Lotion is not just great for treating chicken pox but also acne by merely dotting the lotion onto the spots. Aloe Vera gel or sap will clear the skin condition within a couple of month as well as improve skins' overall health.

Hydration- Skin hydration is absolutely essential for combating acne. This is easily achieved by drinking a lot of water. The water will detox and flush-out built up toxins in a natural and safe way. You will notice the difference in just a couple of days. Your skin will be radiant, soft and glowing.

Dietary deficiency- Acne can be caused by a lack in your diet in the form of vitamins and minerals. A great range of vitamin and mineral supplements are available at your pharmacy or local health store.

Professional analysis- It is essential to have your skin condition analysed by a professional such as a Physician or Dermatologist, he or she will be able to recommend the best treatment for the acne. The acne treatment should absolutely match you skin and acne type. - 17274

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Reishi Extract and Cancer

By Markho Rafael

Reishi is frequently prescribed in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a panacea. It is widely used by both laymen and professionals in the Orient as a treatment for things as innocuous as stress or weight loss to more serious conditions such as arthritis and even cancer.

One of the most ardent proponents of reishi is Dr Fukumi Morishige, a Japanese medical doctor working with the Linus Pauling Institute of Science & Medicine in researching the use of reishi for cancer.

The following case reports were given by Dr. Morishige in a speech re-printed in the periodical, Chinese Traditional Medicine Part III.

Growing up in Japan as Dr. Morishige did, it was impossible not to have heard of reishi. But he dismissed it as a mild herbal remedy to be used with limited results for non-terminal illnesses, not as a viable option for treating terminal conditions such as cancer. His curiosity arose when two of his cancer patients showed signs of remission, which they themselves claimed were due to their use of reishi.

First was a 39-year-old woman with lung carcinoma. The hospitals she had visited all told her she was too far gone and there was nothing they could do to help her. As a serious secondary complication, she also exhibited chest cavity edema. None-the-less, by the time she had her first appointment with Dr. Morishige, the symptoms of her illness had disappeared. The woman credited her recovery to the use of reishi, which her husband had administered to her at 4 grams per day.

The second case was a young boy suffering from congenital liver cancer. At the age of 5, his attending physician determined that the condition was terminal and discontinued any further treatment. At 9 years of age, the boy's parents brought him to see Dr. Morishige who could then find no remaining traces of the cancer. The parents explained to Dr. Morishige that they had been feeding their son reishi via a naso-gastric tube. It was at this point Dr. Morishige determined that reishi's effect on cancer deserved further study.

Listed below are five of Dr. Morishige's cases. Reishi and Vitamin C (for side effects) was used:

Case 1: A male patient, 70 years of age, had lost consciousness from a 5 cm brain tumor. Dr. Morishige put him on 6 grams of reishi daily beginning June, 1986. By September, he'd come out of his coma, after which he continued taking 3 grams of reishi per day. Six months later, brain scans revealed that the tumor had shrunk. When it had diminished to 1 cm (0.4 in.), the man left the hospital to go home and live with his family.

Case 2: A 50+ female with metastatic lung cancer and hemoptysis (coughing up blood) began a regimen of 6 gm/day of reishi. Six months later, the tumor had disappeared. And whereas before she had experienced severe shortness of breath, she could now effortlessly climb stairs.

Case 3: A woman with breast cancer and metastatic bone cancer suffered excruciating pain and an inability to move below the neck. Dr. Morishige started her out on 9 gm/day of reishi and then increased it to 20 gm/day. In two months, the patient was free from pain, able to walk, and was released from the hospital.

Case 4: A man with rectal cancer metastasized to the liver was placed on 6 grams per day of reishi. Six months later, CT scans revealed that the tumor had shrunk. The patient showed improved health.

Case 5: A patient with pancreatic cancer and short life prognosis was put on 9 grams of reishi per day, orally, and 30 grams of Vitamin C, intravenously. Twelve months later, he reported that he longer experienced any symptoms and was back to work. He said he'd continued taking 5 grams per day of reishi after leaving the hospital.

End Note: This article is for informational purposes only. This product has not been tested by the FDA and it is highly advised not to use it for self-treatment of cancer. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb for medicinal purposes.

Reference: Morishige, Fukumi, 1987. Chinese Traditional Medicine Part III, Page 12 - 23, ISBN4-88580-053-6 C-0077 - 17274

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6 Must-Know Tips to Break Free from Annoying Belly Fat

By Thong M. Dao

If you're hoping to lose fat, there's a pretty good chance you've tried a lot of methods. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people who are unhappy with their bodies don't succeed in their fat loss goals. That's because they're often using gimmicky weight loss plans that can actually damage their bodies! If you're in this boat, and you don't know how to get rid of the fat while staying healthy, here are a few tips that might get you on the right track.

1. Consume foods from all food groups daily. It is an excellent way to guarantee you're taking all the nutrients your body calls for and this assists to ward off any dieting deficiencies. Besides, do not have the same foods day in and day out. Experiment so that you do not become bored with same old diet.

2. Try to eat breakfast within an hour of waking up. This is the best way to give your body the jump start it needs. Don't wait until you are really hungry. Breakfast is important, but you don't need to stuff yourself.

3. Proteins should be 25 - 30% of your diet. A lot of stress is put on meat as the primary part of your meal. Protein needs more calories to digest which is called the thermogenic effect.

4. Try and adopt a vegetarian diet. A vegetarian diet is undoubtedly better for those of us watching our diet. There are a lot of advantages of keeping to a vegetarian diet but I don't want to sing an ode to vegetarianism now. What I would suggest is keep to a vegetarian diet as much as you can. Make a non- vegetarian diet a week end event or something if you find it impossible to give up eating all those animals.

5. High Fiber multigrain breads are better than white breads. Remember how I told you to increase the fiber content in your food; well this is the answer to that. It is not only better in terms of the fiber content but also in terms of the protein content as well.

6. Restrict your sugar ingestion as much as you can. When you must add sweetener in your tea and coffee, attempt to find an man-made sweetener that you do not mind the taste. But they are not completely that wholesome either and should be restricted too. - 17274

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The Truth About The Acai Berry Diet And Weight Loss

By Melissa King

If you have been researching diet and weight loss of late you have no doubt heard about the incredible acai berry and the acai berry diet plan. Claims are that you can lose a bunch of weight just by consuming this nutritious little berry that tastes like blueberries dipped in dark chocolate and is grown only in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. Reading the claims you might think that you have stumbled upon a miraculous solution.

Well the fact is that the acai berry, which is only found in the Brazilian rainforest, will not help you lose any more weight than the blueberry that is found in the state of Maine. There are no magic bullets or mystical potions when it comes to weight loss.

Then again, the acai berry can be a help to weight loss and an aid to our bodies for the prevention of diseases, the reduction of inflammation in our bodies and the slowdown of the aging process. It is not because this little berry is a magical fruit but rather because this berry is one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods ever found in nature.

Antioxidant qualities in a food are measured by the ORAC score or the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity and the acai berry in reality has one of the highest ORAC scores ever found in a food. It has more than 10 times the antioxidants as grapes and even twice the amount of antioxidants as blueberries, which are another powerful fruit.

The acai berry is also high in the essential fatty acids Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9. Up to 50% of the edible pulp is comprised of these fatty acids plus monounsaturated oleic acid, which is the same healthy fat that is found in olive oil.

To my amazement this small little powerhouse berry also contains 19 amino acids, which are the building blocks to protein. They also contain vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and E along with potassium, magnesium, calcium, copper and zinc.

It has only been in the past few years that the acai berry has been available outside of Brazil. This is because the acai berry is awfully perishable and it must be processed or consumed within twenty four hours of removal from the tree in order to keep the nutritional integrity of the fruit. There are different processing methods but the most effective way to process the acai berry is with a freeze-drying method.

The acai berry is not a magical way to lose weight but the fact is that this little berry is a nutritional source of power and it can help you to achieve optimal health and energy, which helps to create a strong, healthy body and a strong, healthy body will respond to diet and exercise in such a way that the excessive flab will come off. - 17274

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How To Find The Best Elliptical Machines

By John Andrews

All companies seem to claim to have the best elliptical machines, so choosing the best can be a daunting task to say the least. What may be best for one person might not as well be best for another. Staying in fit today is crucial to survival and healthily living, so by doing what ever you have to do to stay fit will give you a happier healthier life.

The best elliptical machines on the market today should have all the similar functions and schematics. All the machines should vary in prices depending on the brand, but the overall effect of the machines should be the same.

Some machine brands target the line of programming and its features, while other brands offer sturdy frames meant for larger people with simple features. The key to picking the right machine for you is picking one that's well rounded in both areas and isn't that expensive.

One of the great machines out today is the Precor EFX 5 7 i. With the patented cross ramp feature this is a machine to have. This feature lets you adjust the angle of the pedals. This feature will help you to receive a complete workout. With its truly amazing graphics displayed on its LED screen, tracking and designing your own personal workout will be a breeze.

If you're looking to eliminate strain on your body then the Smooth CE2 is the best elliptical machines for you. It has large foot pedals that will eliminate the strain on your body. This feature will allow you to workout more since you won't be as sore with these pedals. This unit is equipped with many features. Some include a wireless heart rate monitor and nine user profiles which are fully programmable. This machine will run you about 1700 dollars. That's a steal of a price for a machine of this magnitude, all the more reasons why this is one of the best elliptical machines available today.

If it's levels of resistance you need then the Schwinn 418 is one of the best elliptical machines for your needs. With a price tag of only $1100 many people feel this machine is equal to the Smooth CE2. They both have some of the same features. All of the Schwinn machines have an excellent user rating and are known to be built very well. These machines will take a beating and will keep giving you a total workout with out skipping a beat!

Whatever you choose will make the best elliptical machines right for you. What ever you choose as the best elliptical machines might not be right for another. If it's something cheap but a high quality machine you're looking for then the Eclipse 1100HR/A is selling for under $500 bucks. The quality of this machine and price makes it one of the most inexpensive machines out today.

.However the eclipse 1100HR/A is a light machine and is not recommended for a heavy person. This machine is very light in weight and wont support a lot of weight. It has an Orbital Linkage System that gives it a very smooth ride. However this machine isn't equipped with a whole lot of features. But for the price this is why its one of the best elliptical machines that's made today. This machine wont take up a whole lot of space and since it's light in weight it can certainly be moved easy. - 17274

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Diabetes Prevention Info

By Jake Ryan

It is possible to reverse or prevent the development of type two diabetes. You should be aware that there are many diabetes preventions that you can avail yourself of. If you think that you may be at risk, the first thing you will want to do is do a pre diabetes screening. You can do this online, however the best option is to speak with your family physician.

One of the first signs of diabetes is having high blood sugar levels. When you have high blood sugar you should change your diet, exercise more, try to relax, and take medication if necessary. If you catch this condition in a pre-diabetes state it is possible to not get full on diabetes.

One of the reasons that many people are getting diabetes is because of the terrible american diets. They are high in sugar and carbohydrates and high levels of carbs turn into sugar. The pancreas then has to work a lot harder to create the necessary insulin to deal with the sugar. Additionally, the poor eating habits can cause obesity and it is a leading factor of diabetes.

Some recent research is also pointing to a link between obesity and type two diabetes. In a study done at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine it was found that obese mice had an over abundance of a hormone called resitin. These same mice were unable to transport glucose efficiently. When given a drug to lower the resistance, the mice resumed their glucose transportation. These drugs are not available as of yet and human testing is still some time in the future. That does not mean that there is not another way to combat increasing resistans. Exercise is the magic bullet that for many has turned back the tide of diabetes.

Exercise causes the body to use more glucose which causes your blood sugar levels to drop. Studies have found that walking just 30 minutes a day will cause you to lose weight. These are great diabetes preventions.

If you are whats considered a boarder line diabetic a doctor will give you medication to help reduce insulin levels. Conditions vary so make sure you talk to your physician for these treatments and preventions. - 17274

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