Todays Health Article

February 2nd, 2012

Today’s use  of those leafy greens, some we all know about, yet others we may not eat because of the unknown truths and the lack of understanding. It is like most people think… they are good for you but their tastes are bitter. Today you are about to learn of a variety of greens. Greens are a grouping of foods that  closely match our nutritional needs, promote good health, and have a great impact on our immune system.

Spinach Greens

THE TRUTHS ABOUT GREENS

I have noticed that many diet plan have given little attention or even mentioned the need for our green leafy plants, and it even more difficult to find nutritional information. Perhaps it is how they get lumped together with their roots, such as carrots and beats, or the flower grouping, such as cauliflower and broccoli. This gives you some idea that  we are misleading greens for vegetables, when they would be better off to be put into their own food group… greens!

Perhaps Another False Truth

This thought seems to hold with a majority who have not even tried the taste of greens, it was my general assumption of spinach when I was young, that anything that  smelled that bad when it was cooking had to taste bad. It used to about make me gag. However, I enjoy today, because it is totally great fresh, and if not overcooked… is good as well.

So, the most common reasons for the unpopularity of greens is that many people think they taste bitter. This may partly due to the influx, and our addiction to sugar being present in every thing we eat.

Lastly it seems that, we understand  little about these greens, and what is misunderstood, we do not choose to eat. We spend little time in our busy lives to learn about healthy foods. Yet once understood, we are more likely to try if it were to benefit our particular health situation.  Would you not agree?

OK, So What is so Great About these Greens

I have provide some categories that might be found beneficial  to a healthy diet.

1. Greens are  found to have Amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein and they are abundant in greens. In fact eating eating a variety of greens in your diet will provide the essential amino acids needed in your diet. To understand, this makes it easier for our body to build the exact proteins that it needs and are not hard to digest.

The insoluble fiber found in our green leafy plants, offers a critical ingredient needed for our body’s waste and the removal of our body’s toxins. If you could imagine how a sponge absorbs water many times it’s own weight, this is the benefits of insoluble fiber. Not only provides these benefits but actually enhance the immune system.

2. Just mentioning Greens Boost your Immune System because if you take a look at any acid-alkaline food chart, you’ll find that greens are one of the most alkaline of all foods.

While raising your body’s pH by eating an alkaline diet (greens), this is one of the best ways to boost your immune system. Thus, more greens added into your diet will not only boost your nutrition, but also boost your immune system.

3. Greens are rich in vitamins, including vitamin K, E, A, C, and many B vitamins. Greens also contain a wide variety of minerals and important phytonutrients. Calorie for calorie, greens are the most concentrated source of nutrition of any food.

The greens of plants usually have much higher vitamin and mineral contents than the roots. Carrot tops, for example, have several times more nutrition than carrot roots, but the tops are usually thrown away. Each type of green has its own unique nutritional profile. If a nutrient is low in one type of green, it is usually abundant in other greens. Therefore, consuming a variety of greens in your diet is the best way to maximize the nutritional benefits of greens.

4. Unlike many vegetables which can cause fermentation and gas if eaten with fruits, greens actually aid digestion by stimulating your body to secrete digestive enzymes. So greens can be successfully combined with any other food.

How Should I Eat Greens?

 The fresh and organic greens will provide to you the highest nutrient contents and eliminate extra toxins. The fresh and non-wilting greens are much more nutritious than greens that are past their prime. Another solution is growing your own greens or buying locally  to ensure freshness and maximize the nutrients in greens.

To Cook or Not To Cook. Cooking breaks down and destroys nutrients in food, and the hotter the cooking, the more nutrition is lost. That being said, low temperature cooking, such as steaming, preserves much of the nutrition in greens.

You might want to consider adding greens to your soup or stew at the last few minutes of cooking, to preserve the nutrition while cooking.

The list of greens can be found here, the list was so long, I provided this website link so you could read at you leisure. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_leaf_vegetables

Today’s Health Comments

Are you eating your greens for better health? I know they have been misunderstood by most, yet they can be very nutritional and very beneficial for our health. Mostly few people include only a handful of varieties in their diet. I had not even heard of some of the varieties that are listed on the above site. Yet we are very concerned that they are not going to be liked, so we are not inclined to try. Like most foods that can be eaten raw, this may provide the most nutrients, yet sometimes steaming may be easier for our bodies to digest. To a healthier life, enjoy your greens.

Todays Health Article

January 26th, 2012

Today… Life is on a fast pace, we dash here and run there, eating on the run, our health is being punished, and a need for some type of  diet plan (Dash Diet) is the only solution for better health. Our obesity is still out of control according to the latest reports, meaning out waistlines are still growing, despite the media warnings of the health risks that follow with obesity. High blood pressure and diabetes seem to be the apparent symptoms along with heart diseases. Why do we do this to ourselves… a road to ill health? Is it just because of having  no plan, regarding our eating habits?

The Dash Eating Plan

Now we have come to realize that a plan that is flexible and that is balanced  regarding our eating has shown to be beneficial to our health. Now the Dash diet, the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension, is such a plan, which has proven to provide a eating plan, that if followed, provides health benefits.

The DASH eating plan was one of three eating plans that were compared in research studies sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Their intentions of this research, was to research the effects of diet  regarding one’s high blood pressure.

The results of the research showed…

• Is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and total fat
• Focuses on fruits, vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
• Is rich in whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, seeds, and nuts
• Contains fewer sweets, added sugars and sugary beverages, and red meats than the typical American diet
  

  Other Benefits

  The DASH diet has been recently named as one of the best overall diets by US News and World Report. Rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, protein and fiber, this eating plan has other powerful health benefits in addition to lowering blood pressure and warding off cardiovascular related diseases. Some additional benefits include:

  • Preventing obesity (when combined with regular exercise)
  • Preventing osteoporosis (due to increased calcium intake)
  • Preventing cancer (due to increased antioxidant intake)
  • Preventing diabetes (due to lowered sugar intake)
  • Preventing constipation (due to increased fiber intake)
  • Losing weight (due to a healthier and more nutritious eating plan)

The DASH Eating Plan… also is lowering sodium (salt) than the typical American diet. This is because eating less sodium can help lower blood pressure.

The DASH research showed that an eating plan containing 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day lowered blood pressure. An eating plan containing only 1,500 mg of sodium per day  further lowered blood pressure.

The “The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010″ advise people who have high blood pressure, African Americans, and middle-aged and older adults to aim for no more than 1,500 mg of sodium per day.

The DASH eating plan also includes foods rich in potassium, such as fruits and vegetables.

Below is a table that shows the daily nutrient goals, including potassium, used in the DASH studies.

Daily Nutrient Goals Used in the DASH Studies (for a 2,000-Calorie Eating Plan)

* 1,500 mg of sodium was a lower goal tested and found to be even better for lowering blood pressure. It worked very well for middle-aged and older adults, African Americans, and people who already had high blood pressure.

The Dash Diet…

Is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods includes meat, fish, poultry, nuts and beans; and is limited in sugar-sweetened foods and beverages, red meat, and added fats. In addition to its effect on blood pressure, it is considered a well-balanced approach to eating for the general public. It is now recommended by the US Department of Agriculture(USDA) as an ideal eating plan for all Americans.

Not only does the plan emphasize good eating habits, but also suggests healthy alternatives to “junk food” and discourages the consumption of processed foods.

The DASH eating plan shown below is based on 2,000 calories a day. The number of daily servings in a food group may vary from those listed depending on your caloric needs.

Food Group	Daily Servings (except as noted)	Serving Sizes
Grains & grain products	7-8	1 slice bread 1 cup ready-to-eat cereal* cup cooked rice, pasta, or cereal
Vegetables	4-5	1 cup raw leafy vegetable cup cooked vegetable 6 ounces vegetable juice
Fruits	4-5	1 medium fruit cup dried fruit cup fresh, frozen, or canned fruit 6 ounces fruit juice
Lowfat or fat free dairy foods	2-3	8 ounces milk 1 cup yogurt 1 ounces cheese
Lean meats, poultry, and fish	2 or less	3 ounces cooked lean meats, skinless poultry, or fish
Nuts, seeds, and dry beans	4-5 per week	1/3 cup or 1 ounces nuts 1 tablespoon or ounce seeds cup cooked dry beans
Fats & oils**	2-3	1 teaspoon soft margarine 1 tablespoon lowfat mayonnaise 2 tablespoons light salad dressing 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Sweets	5 per week	1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon jelly or jam ounce jelly beans 8 ounces lemonade

* Serving sizes vary between cup -1 cups. Check the product’s nutrition label.

** Fat content changes serving counts for fats and oils: For example, 1 tablespoon of regular salad dressing equals 1 serving; 1 tablespoon of a lowfat dressing equals serving; 1 tablespoon of a fat free dressing equals 0 servings.

 Adverse Risks of The Dash Diet Plan

The Dash Diet, like any other changes taken towards your eating habits, must be considered regarding your current health conditions. If questionable, seek council from a nutritionists or Doctor before doing so. The studies have not indicated any adverse side affects of such diet, but the diet is new as well. It is very similar to a couple other diets that have been around for some time. The indications for those who have health problems such as diabetes or kidney illness to talk with your doctor before making a decision.

We are all looking for better health and a balanced diet plan such as the Dash Diet plan. It is basically the answer regarding what we may eat, or should eat, but the exercise is still a key here. If we are not burning off what we intake, we will gain weight, though the other benefits may be acquired. We will be just healthier, yet obese. So If you need a plan to decide what to eat, then by all means do so, just do not forget… the body needs exercise as well. The Dash Diet Plan has been recognized as the Number 1 diet for 2 years now, and reviewed  by many and endorsed as well.

Todays Health Article

January 17th, 2012

Below is an article contributed by Mike Geary, the founder of  TruthAboutAbs.com .  I thought this was an important topic to share with you because the reality is that most people simply don’t realize how dangerous their excess abdominal fat really is to their health.

The Hidden Dangers of Your Excess Abdominal Fat – It’s More Serious Than a Vanity Issue!

by Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer

Did you know that the vast majority of people in this day and age have excess abdominal fat? The first thing that most people think of is that their extra abdominal fat is simply ugly, is covering up their abs from being visible, and makes them self conscious about showing off their body.

However, what most people don’t realize is that excess abdominal fat in particular, is not only ugly, but is also a dangerous risk factor to your health. Scientific research has clearly demonstrated that although it is unhealthy in general to have excess body fat throughout your body, it is also particularly dangerous to have excess abdominal fat.

There are two types of fat that you have in your abdominal area.

The first type that covers up your abs from being visible is called subcutaneous fat and lies directly beneath the skin and on top of the abdominal muscles.

The second type of fat that you have in your abdominal area is called visceral fat, and that lies deeper in the abdomen beneath your muscle and surrounding your organs. Visceral fat also plays a role in giving certain men that “beer belly” appearance where their abdomen protrudes excessively but at the same time, also feels sort of hard if you push on it.

Both subcutaneous fat and visceral fat in the abdominal area are serious health risk factors, but science has shown that having excessive visceral fat is even more dangerous than subcutaneous fat. Both of them greatly increase the risk your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnea, various forms of cancer, and other degenerative diseases.

Part of the reason visceral fat is particularly dangerous is that it apparently releases more inflammatory molecules into your body on a consistent basis.

If you care about the quality of your life and your loved ones, reducing your abdominal fat should be one of your TOP priorities! There’s just no way around it. Besides, a side-effect of finally getting rid of all of that excessive ugly abdominal fat is that your stomach will flatten out, and if you lose enough stomach fat, you will be able to visibly see those sexy six pack abs that everyone wants.

So what gets rid of extra abdominal fat?

Is there actually a REAL solution beyond all of the gimmicks and hype that you see in ads and on commercials for “miracle” fat loss products?

The first thing you must understand is that there is absolutely NO quick fix solution. There are no pills or supplements of any sort that will help you lose your abdominal fat faster. Also, none of the gimmicky ab rockers, rollers, or ab belts will help get rid of abdominal fat either. You can’t spot reduce your stomach fat by using any of these worthless contraptions. It simply doesn’t work that way.

The ONLY solution to consistently lose your abdominal fat and keep it off for good is to combine a sound nutritious diet full of unprocessed natural foods with a properly designed strategic exercise program that stimulates the necessary hormonal and metabolic response within your body. Both your food intake as well as your training program are important if you are to get this right.

I’ve actually even seen a particular study that divided thousands of participants into a diet-only group and an exercise/diet group. While both groups in this study made good progress, the diet-only group lost significantly LESS abdominal fat than the diet & exercise combined group.

Now the important thing to realize…

is that just any old exercise program will not necessarily do the trick. The majority of people that attempt getting into a good exercise routine are NOT working out effectively enough to really stimulate the loss of stubborn abdominal fat. I see this everyday at the gym.

Most people will do your typical boring ineffective cardio routines, throw in a little outdated body-part style weight training, and pump away with some crunches and side bends, and think that they are doing something useful for reducing their abdominal fat. Then they become frustrated after weeks or months of no results and wonder where they went wrong.

Well, the good news…

is that I’ve spent over a decade researching this topic, analyzing the science, and applying it “in the trenches” with myself as well as thousands of my clients from all over the world to see what works to really stimulate abdominal fat loss.

The entire solution… all of the nutritional strategies, as well as training sequences, exercise combinations, and more have all been compiled in my Truth About Six Pack Abs Program.
Keep in mind that the point of this whole program is NOT abdominal exercises (that is only a very small portion of it). The main point of this program is showing you the absolute most effective strategies for losing your stubborn abdominal fat, so you can get rid of that dangerous health risk, as well as get a flatter more defined midsection.

If you follow the guidelines… you WILL lose your belly fat that has been plaguing you for years. This is not guesswork… it is a proven system that works time and time again for all of my clients on every corner of the globe that actually apply the information I teach. If you apply it, the results will come. It’s really that simple.

The only reason most people fail in their fitness goals is that they have good intentions at first to adopt a new lifestyle, yet after a few weeks or months, they abandon their good intentions and slip right back into their old bad habits that gave them the excess body fat in the first place.

I want to help you succeed in finally getting rid of that extra abdominal fat that is not only UGLY, but also DANGEROUS.

Don’t waste another day allowing that nasty abdominal fat to kill your confidence as well as contribute to your risk for MAJOR diseases.

Get the solution to rid yourself for life of this problem at…

http://www.truthaboutabs.com

Train hard, eat right, and enjoy life!

Mike Geary
Certified Nutrition Specialist
Certified Personal Trainer
Author – The Truth about Six Pack Abs

Todays Health Comments

This just seems to make a lot of sense…we need to understand why and how we change our abdominal fat to a healthier and more desirable look, as well as curbing our obesity. Another article you might find of interest growing-waistlines-and-naughty-foods and you may also may check out the above links for further info.

Diets Foods

Todays Health Article

January14th, 2012

Today more than ever before, diets have exploded! The need, or our desires to look like we were 20 or 30 years ago, can be a  individual realization, we just have to lose some weight. A trip to the doctor, stepping on the scales, leads us to believe we have put on a few extra pounds. Another note, just unable to fit into the same clothes, seems to be the first clue that are body is blooming in size. Anyway, now that we have come to this new revelation… its the conclusion that I must asked, “Have we lost our senses about “The Food Diets?

 Have We Lost Our Senses

Diets for most people, do not make any sense anyway. You may rebut that comment and some of you could be very right, but you are in a minority. Most people are almost addicted to the thought of trying the latest diet, can not control their desire to try the next diet. They are so crazed or obsessed with the need for dieting, they will try any diet. That perhaps is a bold statement… but one click of the word diet in Google and I need to say no more. My question to you is… Why?

Food Diets

I only can believe that food and diets will never cease to be! Our very need to loose weight, because we are an obese society, diets will be looked at, as the solution, not the problem. You may already know this, but for those who do not, this was some research to prove how we have lost our senses when it comes to foods and diets. Here are some links to show how diets are linked to foods as the solution to your diets.

1. Morning Banana Diet — Japan’s Simplest Diet: Eat a Banana in the ..

The Morning Banana Diet Journal (beta) will motivate you and keep you on track as you follow the Morning Banana Diet. It’s free use by all who sign up for our …

2.Weight Loss: Peanut Butter Diet | Men’s Health

May 29, 2003 – Treat yourself to the peanut butter diet and still meet your weight loss goals– at Men’s Health.

3.The Simple Chocolate Diet |Eat Chocolate Lose weight and feel better!

The Simple Chocolate Diet – Lose weight and feel better by eating nutritious “Healthy Dark Chocolate” Eat Chocolate feel better look great! More here->>

4.Cabbage Soup Diet – Here’s How To Lose Up To 10 lbs In 7 Days

Cabbage Soup Diet – free information including the cabbage soup diet recipe, 7-day eating plan, tips for success and an open discussion area.

5.Tomatoes 5 Days Weight Loss Diet | Weight Loss Note

Dec 21, 2009 – Tomato weight loss meal This tomato weight loss diet will help you to lose weight in a short time frame, without starving yourself. More, it’s …

6.‘ The Dukan Diet‘ : Eat Meat, Lose Weight! – ABC News

Apr 19, 2011 – The new diet craze — the Dukan Diet – claims dramatic results without requiring dieters to count calories or go hungry. Created by French …

7.What Is the Water Diet? | eHow.com

What Is the Water Diet?. The Water Diet, sometimes known as the Cold Water Diet, is one of the latest fads that appeal to dieters who want to melt away their fat.

8.A Wine Diet? Study Shows Alcohol Helps Women Lose Weight …

Mar 10, 2010 – Women can drown their pounds–sorry, boys, you can’t.

9.Fruit diet – Calorie Count – About.com

Mar 6, 2007 – So I decided to do this fruit fast for 2 weeks. My freind did it for 5 days and lost 7lbs. Im sure its probabbly water weight but if you keep going you …

10.A Fruit and Vegetable Diet – The Key to Weight Loss Success

May 2, 2011 – Before you think I am asking you to become some sort of Vegan and only eat plants for the rest of your life-stop!! The last thing in the world that I …

 The Solution

The above examples prove…you just choose your favorite food to eat and some one has provided a tried and proven diet for you. It is a utopia for those who are seeking their favorite food to eat and lose all that weight you are desiring to lose. Diets can be only successful, and they rarely are when you just target one particular food or group. Why… your body goes into shock and you lose weight on short term and gain weight long term. Your body is not prepared for your actions and rebels. This can become serious and lead to health problems much greater than the weight itself.

Perhaps more likely to succeed, is old school, but still stands, burning more calories than your body takes in, proper foods for nutrition, and exercise. Eating in moderation always is as important, and drinking plenty of water.  With that in mine allows you to eat most foods when you have a craving, so long as you do not make a habit of eating them all the time. I believe that much easier to hold onto some kind of eating habit such as this, than some of the above diets, which will lose their charm.

Todays Health Comments

The word diet seems to lead people astray, perhaps some have lost their senses, while others are capitalizing on the money that has been spent in this industry. There seems that anyone or every one could share their weight lose program and a new diet could be formed, if that person has a certain amount of social media following. Almost every food has the diet word following, whether it has any value or not.and left up to those who try it, to be the judge.

The reality there is no easy way just like the weight did not pile up in a day or two, so it not going to leave in a day or two. Since we seem to live in a faster pace life today, we expect our diet to lose in the same way… FAST. That is when disappointment set in and most likely the old diet is out the window and on to the new. In the meantime, nothing lost and back to the gaining because when we get our emotions into our diet( frustration and disappointment) we eat to satisfy our emotions.

It just might be time to listen to those nutritionist, trainers, or Doctors who actually know what they are talking about so your diet is worthy of your body needs.

Further Reading

Do Diets Just Disappoint,Yet Guarantee Lighter Wallets

http://todayshealthsite.com/do-diets-just-disappoint-yet-guarantee-lighter-wallets.html

How Proper Nutrition Help You Lose Pounds

http://todayshealthsite.com/how-proper-nutrition-can-help-you-lose-pounds.html

Ice Water

Todays Health Article

December 29th, 2011

Today we are closing in on the end of the year, and like most people, we begin thinking about all those New Years Resolutions. Many of you will give some thought to losing weight or eating less of the junk food after the Holidays end. Perhaps you do not want to weight and get started now. For those who are reading this, you could simply just work on what you now drink. It was just a year ago when I came to realize that Soda Pop was  no longer going to  be a daily drink, and water was become a regular part of my diet. Amazing that now I can hardly stand to drink the stuff. I still like my Root Beer once and awhile. I have lost 25lbs just contributing to that fact and the consumption of water.

Body Exposed To Cold Temperatures

I recently discovered that winter time is great time to rev up your weight loss. When the body is exposed to cold temperatures, it burns extra calories to keep yourself warm, thus increasing the metabolism by up to 50% in the process. The human body is constantly trying to maintain a static temperature of 98.6 degrees. The colder the surrounding or internal conditions, the more calories the body burns to keep warm. Metabolism acts like a furnace that must burn fuel to keep the body nice and toasty. Luckily, the body’s fuel of choice for keeping warm is “brown fat.”

Drinking Ice Water

Drinking iced water is  just one of several ways to harness this mechanism for Weight loss, since the body must compensate for the sudden temperature drop. Just One 16 ounce glass of cold water can burn up to 17.5 calories. Cold showers, a lowered thermostat, and vigorous swims  can also contribute to the burning of calories.

Weight Loss

Glass of Ice Water

Drinking ice water will contribute to a lose of calories and replacing it from the sugary drinks will definitely contribute to weight loss but it is just one facet or part of  your weight loss. So do not run out in a snow bank in your summer attire and expect to loose weight immediately… you might just catch a good case of the shivers.

Warning

On the other side of the coin… our body only can sustain to keep

us warm to a certain point. When it is cooling down faster than our body can keep up, Hypothermia  symptoms sets in. This can be life threatening. Also those   who are exposed to extreme cold might be at risk of of other complications, such as heart conditions, resulting in Heart attacks.

Diet

Be certain to drink that glass of Ice Water with those healthy fruits and vegetables. A Tip drink a glass of ice water before you eat your meal. Not only will the ice water burn off some calories, it will take up space in your stomach that would other wise be used for food. Plainly you eat less when you drink ice water before a meal. Another Tip is drinking ice water between meals…allows you not to feel as hungry.

Todays Health Comments

Today we  may need all the help we can get in curbing obesity. It is national problem that started with each one us contributing to the tipping scales.There is a portion of our society that have approved or endorsed that big is better. For sometime I think all of us wanted more for our buck… and now our bodies are paying for that era of time when we were blindly looked the other way.

Ice Water is one of those drinks that just may be the answer to a lot of  our health problems and we need to drink more. I know in some parts of the world it is actually hard to get clean water, and bottled water is a luxury. But for those who have plenty of water, are not drinking enough. Drink up that ice water for good health.

Further Reading

http://todayshealthsite.com/drink-your-water-and-eat-your-fruit-diet.html

http://todayshealthsite.com/my-new-weight-loss-with-results.html

Todays Health Article

December 18th, 2011

Why today the following snacks are important to young and old. I believe today Popcorn is one of America’s number one snacks for any event or occasion. It seems to find it’s way into almost every favorite pastime, or event. Yet, the Holidays finds popcorn to be a all time favorite. It cerainly may be found on the Christmas tree as a chain or ornament, yet under the tree as a gift, or as a treat. I as a young child, just loved making popcorn balls, stringing the popcorn, or having a piece of popcorn cake. I also thought little in those days, as to what I was eating, except I knew popcorn was always a part of our Holiday.

Popcorn

I believe it’s name is fitting, as to the wonder of how a kernel of popcorn ( maize) can expand and basically explode once it reaches a  certain temperature and becomes what we know as popcorn. It has not only been around hundreds of years, but actually is one of the oldest forms of corn in North America.

Why Is it Healthy?

The kernel is very rich in vitamin B complex, vitamin E, protein, iron and phosphorus. It also contains thiamine, and riboflavin. Popcorn has more phosphorous as compared to potato chips. The protein content in popcorn is more than other cereal grains. Popcorn is also very rich in iron content when  compared to peanuts, spinach, or eggs, it has much more!

Popcorn is one of those snacks that can be enjoyed by all. The exception is those very young, whom are unable to chew or digest, and this should be avoided. If your so inclined to do so, all those compliments can take away the health benefits, adding calories, and sugar content to your diet

Nutrient	Value
Iron	2.5 mg
Phosphorus	2.8 mg
Calcium	11 mg
Thiamine (B1)	0.39 mg
Riboflavin	0.12 mg
Niacin	2.2 mg
Protein	12.7 mg

The Cranberry

Why eat more Cranberries for the Holidays?  The  benefits from eating cranberries are so many and with  the continuous research, even more benefits  may be  discovered. What you might not know is that the cranberry is one of only 3 fruits native to America.  The cranberry was known for helping Americans survive for hundreds of years. The cranberries were used by the Native Americans in a variety of foods, the most popular was pemmican – this was a high protein combination of crushed cranberries, dried deer meat and melted fat

.
During the Holiday season, the whole berry, or dried were often added to the popcorn strings for decorating for the holiday season. They are still used for this purpose to this day, in the same form. Most cranberrries today are eaten by all in their favorite dishes, dried, or in sauce.

Today’s Cranberry Health Facts

The Cranberry appears to help significantly in lowering, or reducing the risk of arteriosclerosis, which can lead to heart attacks, angina and blood clots. They are  also known to be high in flavonoid and their anti-adhesion properties, helping to reverse and reduce the amount of oral bacteria which can lead to dental plaque and periodontal (gum) disease.

This alone should be a good reason why eating more cranberries, can be beneficial for your health.

Cranberries contain more antioxidant phenols than most commonly eaten fruits, which help protect our bodies, by stabilizing free radicals we are exposed to everyday.

The  cranberry has been tied to the benefits of helping in the control or relief of Urinary tract infections.

For information on cranberry health research, visit the Cranberry Institute. http://cranberryinstitute.org/healthresearch.htm

 The Mango

This exotic fruit  has brought lots of attention to the health world today. It has been sought out as a miracle in your medicine cabinet that can help you lose 10 pounds.

Can this exotic fruit, which little is known about, be what the doctor ordered for the Holidays? You may be able to have your cake and eat it too with this change your diet.  Today it’s sharing about the little unknown  fruit, called the African Mango. Why would’nt you want to include this fruit for the holidays?

African Mango

The recent excitement surrounding African Mango and its weight-loss benefits, has suggested this fruit to become part of our diet. Why not? It has actually been used as a diet aid for centuries in Cameroon, Africa,  the only place in the world where African Mango is grown.

The brightly-colored tropical fruit is found exclusively in Cameroon’s west-coastal rain-forests.

Health Benefits of  African Mangos

African Mango differs from other mango fruits, in that it produces a peculiar seed, which natives of Cameroon refer to as “Dikka nuts”. They used it for its wide-ranging medicinal benefits,  ranging from reducing and preventing obesity, lowering cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, and treating infections.

African Mango Clinical

According to a new study published in the medical journal Lipids in Health and Disease, this extract caused an average weight loss of 12.3 pounds in 30 days without diet or exe..rcise

You can find out more about this study here:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19254366?dopt=Abstract
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00645775

 In May 2005 a study was undertaken by the Nutrition, HIV and Health Research Unit from the University of Yaounde in Cameroon. The aim of the study was to test the effect of Irvingia Gabonensis seeds on body weight and blood lipids of obese subjects in Cameroon.

You can find out more about this study here:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18377661

Todays Health Comments

Today with the Holiday Season just around the corner and the need to maintain healthy during this time, why not try those foods that are actually healthy for you. Popcorn which has always been a favorite, is a great snack for the kids as well for yourself… just watch what you put on it and you will be OK. Cranberries can be added as well… I love the dried cranberries and they are also colorful on the popcorn string for the tree. Also they are great for your favorite additives to baking. The addition of Mangos, you might find their flavor to be a delicious addition to your Holiday dinner. Today we must strive for those foods, fruits, or snacks that will allow us to become healthy and not blooming waistlines. HAPPY HOLIDAYS ! Dj

Todays Health Articles

December 5th, 2011

Today’s article is for those of you who have tried diet after diet and you’re still hollering, “Please! Help me lose weight!” You and I both know… it’s because diets just don’t work, obviously, and not for very long either. If we were to be truthful here, diets may help you drop a few pounds in the beginning, but the results are most often short lived. It just stands to reason, most diets require you to restrict your caloric intake to the point, where your body is literally starving.

There for, not getting enough calories, slows your metabolism down, causing the loss of lean muscle tissue, depriving you of the fuel you need to perform, and causing your body to hold on to stored fat for energy.

In addition, diets are miserable, depressing, frustrating, and not sustainable over the long term. Seriously, how long do you think you can survive off of bananas and cabbage?

If you are one who has tried almost every diet on the market, than proper nutrition will give you better weight loss results than simply going on a diet.

Three Good Reasons Why

1. Healthy Foods Are Naturally Low in Calories

Unlike processed junk food we seem to eat daily, healthy foods like;

• vegetables
• fruits
• legumes
• beans
• naturally raised meats
• organic poultry
• raw nuts
• seeds
• organic eggs

These are naturally low in calories. When you eat within reason, portions of these foods, you automatically reduce your caloric intake and the results are a lose of weight without feeling hungry, and nor do you feel  angry about yourself or hungry.

This perhaps is just common sense and the nonsense lies in the processed foods. When you eat them,  do you know, your body doesn’t have a clue what to do with  all those calories. The answer is…  they just get stored as fat. On the other hand when you eat nutritious foods, instead of processed junk, your body actually benefits from the calories so they are less likely to get stored as  you know what… fat!

2. Proper Nutrition Helps Fuel Your Body

If you were to check this out, all nutritious eating is formed around you eating  plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits and beans in your the diet. These foods will provide the healthy carbohydrates you need to fuel your body and keep your metabolism performing properly.

Those of you who come across diets that may tell you not to eat healthy carbohydrates, step back as fsst  as fast as you can.  One thing is for sure your body absolutely has to have healthy carbohydrates (healthy being the operative word) to survive.

3. Eating Healthy to Burn Fat

There is some great news. Yes, eating healthy that includes protein can help you build lean muscle tissue, which can also kick your metabolism into high gear. This is definitely a plus if you want to send that extra pounds packing.

When you eat protein rich foods, your body releases a hormone that helps you burn fat. Protein also helps make meals more filling so you eat less and fill satisfied, not hungry. So bring on the protein! Some of nutritious protein sources are naturally raised lean meats, organic poultry, beans, raw nuts and whole organic eggs.

The Question?

Why would anyone put themselves through the drama of dieting,  just to become disappointed with the end results? Eating  healthy is a much better option for dropping unwanted pounds. Remember though, nutritious eating is just one part of the weight loss puzzle. If you want to keep those results coming, get plenty of exercise and drink lots of water.

Todays Health Comments

For those who would like to become leaner and healthier for the long haul, not just some fad or a quick scheme to trick your body into losing pounds, than you should consider what makes common sense. The body only benefits from nutritious and healthy food, the rest the body has to place some where… storing  up in places we would rather not have. To me eating healthy to burn fat would be more logical than starving one self.

Further Information

If you are serious about losing weight, watch this video to learn some of the things that help me lose weight and keep it off.

Todays Health Articles

National Nutrition Month

Theme  ”Eat Right With Color”

March 12th, 2011

Today it is no secret any more, perhaps more startling that we have arrived here, but none the less, we have an ever-growing obese population. With more and more people becoming unhealthy due to overweight, actually to the point  of endangering their lives, now have to consider how they are being  affected by their diets. These  individuals that have eaten unhealthily, mainly because naughty foods taste so good or perhaps just too convenient. We can become sluggish and lethargic if we are getting the wrong amounts of nutrients. Our conscious thought about what we put into our bodies is essential, and that especially applies to seniors.

As We Get Older

Our metabolism slows down and we can no longer burn calories at the same rate as we used to. When this occurs, it easier for us to put on weight,because our excess goes to our waistlines, as well as other places, making it harder for us to shed it. However, putting on weight, has a much more negative affect on  those who are seniors than it does any other age group.

As we bcome older, being overweight can put unnecessary stress on the joints and thus accelerate the affects of arthritis, osteoporosis,  bone and muscle disorders, and illnesses. It can iniate  the onset of diabetes, which is  now more common in seniors, more than in any other age group as it is. Although I am not saying  you can not enjoy what you like to eat, every now and again, a regular balanced nutritious diet is just what is being suggested!

A typical Senior Diet Should Consist Of:

The  foodstuffs in the list below are balanced as far as amounts are concerned. This diet would fulfil most nutritional needs that a senior would requirw and would encourage good health. If this has not been a pattern for your eating, it establishes the nutrition levels that one should desire to achieve. Also depending on current medical and health needs, consulting  a nutritionist and medical professionals are  suggested for  a more personal diet.
* 5 to 10 servings of fruit and vegetables a day, although more of the latter than the former
* 6 to 10 servings of complex carbohydrates a day, which incorporates rice, pasta, bread and cereals
* 2 or 3 helpings of calcium-based products, which includes milk, cheese and yogurt (although the low fat variety would work out best)
* 2 to 3 servings of meat, poultry or fish a day o provide the body with protein
* A large amount of fiber throughout the day, which can also be found in the cereals, fruit and vegetables mentioned above saturated

Fats and Sodium

However, almost all dieticians suggest that seniors stay away from saturated fats and sodium.  We are talking about… what is known as salt, a factor guilty of  increasing your blood pressure. Therefore, salt should be used sparingly,and  not excessively! Saturated fat is actually resistant to the body’s nutritional process, allowing it to remain, sitting  there, allowing your arteries to become clogged up. Excused Layman Terms. As a result, it is a factor in heart disease, forms of cancer and gallbladder disease, as well as the widespread obesity in society today.

Todays Health Comments

A well balanced diet can boost your health, but a poor diet that does not fulfil our nutritional requirements. Without proper diet our health can actually find causes to deteriorate. In seniors, this is especially dangerous. After all, many struggle, regarding mobility, just how are you supposed to work off the excess weight? If you are in shape you can avoid immobility. It is therefore a vicious circle that may relate directly to your diet.

As seniors, you should enjoy life to the fullest extent, but eating healthily on a regular basis can actively extend the amount of time you have left to enjoy it! Make the most of every opportunity because you only get one chance at life. Revolutionize your diet and reap the rewards!

 Todays Health Article

January 29th, 2011

Todays list of Diet Pills are growing as fast as out waitlines, because of  the dramatic need to find solutions for those in need  weight lose. Lipo, the prefix meaning  fat, may be bring confusion with other products having the same prefix, LipoZene, LipoBind and others as well. With  the name  like LipoFuze, it perhaps could be alluding to be, a fuze to fat, or just has  confused the fact. I am asking for some clarity,  for yet another Lipo____ to emerge before this article is completed.

LipoFuze

“There are so many diet pills on the market. How do you know which one actually works? SIMPLE. Look at the science. By combining 6 Patented and 4 Clinically Tested Fat Burning Ingredients, Lipofuzepresents the perfect formula to help you with one thing only: LOSE WEIGHT! This revolutionary thermogenic compound is the most effective weight loss pill on the market today. And Guess What? IT’S BACKED BY SCIENCE!”

Source  www.lipofuze.com

LipoFuze moving up the ladder.

 Some reviews have rated LipoFuze  as 2010′s best  Proclamations have been made, and testimonials been given. With hyped up weight loss ingredients, inferring  powerful fat burning ingredients, looking like all the others  from the past.  LipoFuze users report experiencing amazing weight loss in as little as 7 days.

So Fact or  SECRET?

If you look closely, you will find many of the ingredients in LipoFuze to be found in other diet pills. The “Fact” about diet pills is the medicinal herbs and natural ingredients, which are found in weight loss products, need to be present in a strong enough  amount to have any effect.

 Since the proportion of each ingredient in LipoFuze is not disclosed, it is very difficult to assess, if they contain  the required amount to promote significant weight loss. (Secret)

The effects of potential interaction between the 14 ingredients in LipoFuze have not been clinically evaluated. Internet reviews indicate that some users have reported headaches, nausea, insomnia, profuse sweating and increased heart rate after taking LipoFuze.( Fact)

LipoFuze Ingredients

Lipofuze is fat burner which contains 6 patented and 4 clinically tested ingredients. The ingredients include:

ThermoDiamine:This ingredient is the patented form of evodiamine, a Chinese fruit that is claimed to burn fat by increasing the body’s production of heat and reducing the body’s ability to store fat.

Razberi-K: Also known as raspberry ketone or 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl) butan-2-one, this ingredient is thought to enhance weight loss via the stimulation of norepinephrine. Razberi-K is said to aid fat oxidation,The chemical structure of raspberry ketone is similar to that of capsaicin and synephrine. Both of these compounds are well documented for their ability to boost thermogenesis through the release of norepinephrine.

 Health risks with these two ingredients; synephrine has been shown to have dangerous cardiovascular side effects, while capsaicin has been demonstrated to cause gastrointestinal problems in many users.

FucoPure:  The patented version of fucoxanthin, a seaweed extract. A number of studies that demonstrate fucoxanthin’s ability to boost metabolism. It is also proven that, this ingredient cannot be absorbed by human body easily. Also been  clinically shown that compounds like fucoxanthin have low bioavailability in man (see Br J Nutr. 2008 Aug;100(2):273-7).

Health Risk One gram of seaweed has several times the amount of iodine that most adults require on a daily basis.  Its effect could include changes in thyroid function due to iodine excess.

ForsLean: ForsLean is derived from the root of Coleaus forskohlii, which is native to warm temperate habitats including India, and is the only known plant source of the natural compound Forskolin. This compound is understood to increase lean body mass and help optimize body composition though cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) activation.

Health Risk There is some clinical studies have indicated that Coleaus forskohlii may cause an increase in heart rate and a decrease in blood pressure.

GuggulEZ100:This is a patented extract of Commiphora mukul. Other  names are Gugalipids and Guggul. Guggul lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels and helps maintain a healthy balance of HDL, the good cholesterol, relative to LDL, the bad cholesterol (the HDL/LDL ratio), thereby protecting against cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis.

 There is some clinical evidence to suggest that Guggul may promote fat burning (see J Postgrad Med. 1995 Jan-Mar;41(1):5-7) by stimulating the secretion of thyroid T3 hormone.

Green tea:Green tea has been shown to promote some weight loss. However, it needs to be used in relatively high concentration, and contain high levels of catechins. In Lipofuze, the amount of green tea present in the formulation is not indicated.

Health Notes Users sensitive to caffeine could experience any of the following side effects: restlessness, irritability, sleeping problems, tremors, heart palpitations, loss of appetite, upset stomach, nausea, frequent urination and skin rash.

Bioperine: This ingredient is an extract from Piper nigrum L (black pepper) or Piper longum L (long pepper). It contains 95 percent Piperine. Bioperine has been shown in clinical research to increase the absorption of ingredients in nutritional supplement formulations.

Health Notes the use of Bioperine may increase the side effects of certain supplements due to increased absorption.

Capsaicin: The compound  found in chile peppers  is believed to generates heat in the body, thereby boosting the burning of calories. However, it appears that very high doses are required for it to be effective.

Health Risks  Severe gastrointestinal side effects have been reported in patients ingesting capsaicin. Although rare, serious allergic reactions to capsaicin can occur. Contact a physician immediately should difficulty breathing, skin rash, hives, swelling of the throat, lips, or face, severe dizziness, or itching be experienced.

Synephrine HCL: Synephrine is derived from the Citrus aurantium plant used for a variety of purposes in traditimedicineonal Chinese . Research indicates that it can act as an effective stimulant. Synephrine can help burn fat, suppress appetite and increase energy. However, clinical studies have revealed that Citrus aurantium induces a relatively modest increase in thermogenesis.

 Side effectsinclude: increased heart rate and blood pressure, insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremor, dry mouth, blurred vision, and headache. Synephrinemay also reduce the ability to urinate. Consult a physician if you have any history of cardiac disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, or urinary problems. Also, combining decongestants withother medicines with similar side effects may lead to dangerous complications.

7-OXO DHEA:This compound is a metabolite of DHEA, a steroid hormone. This ingredient has been shown to have a positive effect on thyroid hormone levels in obese people, without apparent side effects (see J Nutr Biochem. 2007; 18(9):629-34. Current Therapeutics, (7):435-442 2000). 7-OXO DHEA has been found to be safe in animals at high doses and in humans at up to 200 mg daily.

Health Notes 7-OXO-DHEA should not be taken if you are being treated with glucocorticoids, as it may interfere with their effectiveness.

Other ingredientsin the LipoFuze formulation include cinnamon, phenylethylamine, ginger, and 20-hydroxyecdysone (a plant steroid considered to have anabolic activity in mammals).

Is Lipofuze effective?

 Searching the user feedback on Lipofuze has greatly varied.  There are some have reported fast weight loss in the first few days (water loss?) when combined with diet and exercise. What I did not find, was those  who had taken for a period of time, but many who were inquiring, or just stating. I found also no routine exercise or diet suggested. Perhaps overlooked?

Todays Health Comments

Perhaps one day, science will get it right for some, but we are complicated. What might be right for some, may be totally wrong for another. That’s why, while you are waiting for that perfect pill to come along, steps can be taken to help you until they do. Eating smart, healthy, and exercise can promote a healthier you… start with the little steps.

 Health Disclaimer

This information is only given to inform, not consult, to promote questions about such products, and advise you to consult with Medical Advise before considering any change in diet or exercise.

Consult a physician if you have any history of cardiac disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, or urinary problems. Also, combining decongestants with other medicines with similar side effects may lead to dangerous complications.

Todays Health Article

January 22nd, 2011

Today’s diet is in a need of a overhaul, many people recognizing the need to make changes in their diet. With the expanding waistlines, diabetes hitting record numbers, and illnesses and health care costs becoming no longer affordable,  a miracle maybe just what’s needed.

Miracles

A explanation of a  miracle is often considered a fortuitous event some believe this action or event to be compared with an Act of God. The casual usage of the word “Miracle” may also refer to any statistic that is unlikely but may be beneficial to someone. In the event of perhaps surviving a natural disaster, life threatening situation or  the survival of a terminal illness.

The Miracle Word

The word used to capture our faith, to motivate us to believe in, that such a diet exists today… is the word ”Miracle”. We all in some way want to believe that this will or can happen. Its the WHY… the word Miracle has been used endlessly in Diets. Have they become the Miracle you have been seeking? For Most they have not, the real words required to obtain such benefits are eating healthy and exercising daily.

The Real Miracle

Is not the diet that people are clinging onto because of the Miracle word is attached to it, it’s the “miracle” not in word, but in the trust within themselves to take the necessary steps in their diet  to lose weight. So the miracle maybe the trust and belief within themselves to eat properly, exercise accordingly, and the long term benefits will result in a healthier you.

Today’s Health Comment

Today’s “Miracle” is not of the Divine nature but perhaps those may understand that the real Miracle in dieting is within themselves not in the name of the diet. No matter how much the diet implies there is a miracle within its plan, no miracle is bound to happen by these words alone. It all comes down to you, eating properly and exercising accordingly. You are entitled to a greater health.