Best Fat Burning Diet Tips : August 2013

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Carbohydrate Free Diet for Rapid Weight Loss

Carbohydrates play an important role in the maintenance of our body's processes. It is difficult if not impossible to completely exclude this nutrient from our diet. A no-carbohydrate diet calls for total elimination of carbohydrates from one's diet. It is one of the newest diet fads to hit the market that promises a substantial reduction of excess weight in record time.

Carbohydrates, or carbs, is the collective term for sugars and starch found in food and drinks. Their primary function is to provide energy to our body. This is processed in our body and converted in glycogen. Glycogen on the other hand will then be stored inside our body for future use. Fat is what becomes of carbohydrates that are not utilized by the body. Having excessive amounts of fat in one's body is unhealthy and could lead to obesity and other diseases. It is important to know what foods you need to have in your diet.

Water in its purest form contains zero calories, zero carbohydrates. It keeps our body hydrated and helps in maintaining important bodily processes. A good way to suppress appetite is to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Diet sodas also contain zero carbohydrates.

Most oils such as corn oil, olive oil and safflower oil are carbohydrates-free. Bear in mind, though, that oil is high in fatty acids and fats, which could be unhealthy in excessive amounts.

Dairy products like butter, eggs and cheeses, do contain cars in very little amounts. There are no dairy products that contain zero carbs. Butter, although containing the least amount of carbs, is also high in fat and therefore should be consumed in moderate amounts. Milk is the only dairy product that should be avoided because it contains lots of carbohydrates.

Examples of salad vegetables with zero carbohydrates are lettuce, parsley, celery, mushroom, radish and spinach.

Eggs are also good sources of protein, tryptophan and amino acids.
Not all fish species are carbohydrate-free. Examples of no-carb fishes are salmon, tuna and sardines. Serving fish grilled, steamed and baked is more healthy and beneficial to people on a diet.
While on a diet, poultry like chicken and turkey are best served grilled, baked, steamed and broiled, rather than fried.
Unprocessed beef contains zero carbs. When processed, certain additives containing carbohydrates are mixed in.

Friday, August 30, 2013

Guide to Eating Healthy

Eating healthy is not as hard as we think it is. The hard part is not what to eat, but what to pass up, such as fast food, large portions of red meat, fried foods, highly processed foods, caffeine and alcohol. We don't need fancy fad diets like the low-carbohydrate diets or the grapefruit diet. All we really need is the knowledge of what is good to put in our bodies and what is not with a little dose of willpower.

When aiming to eat a healthful diet, you will want to make sure you eat well-proportioned servings at each meal of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and dairy. It is important to understand that the portions will not be the same for all of those categories. Keep reading to see the portions recommended for the average adult.

Aim to eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Fruit and vegetables are important to eating healthy because they are packed full of the necessary vitamins and minerals that help you fight off sicknesses and diseases, they help you stay full longer, they help your body function better and they help you eliminate toxins from your body.

Eat six servings of whole grains a day. Many whole-grain foods are less processed than their white counterparts and contain high levels of fiber to help your digestive track function and keep you feeling full longer. Breads, pastas and rice all fall under this category.

Good proteins to eat are things like fish and white cuts of turkey and chicken. You should aim to eat two to three servings a day. Various nuts also make for good sources of protein.

Milk products, yogurt and cheese make up your dairy selections. You should aim for two servings a day. Dairy products are good for optimal bone health in adults--especially women.

Good old water. It is vital to keep all of our bodily functions working properly, such as helping your metabolism and your digestive track. It can help you feel full longer, and it washes out toxins in your body. Consume six to eight glasses of water daily for optimal health.

A good way for you to get on track and stay on track is to plan your meals in advance. If you can, try to plan your meals for the week. Make one trip to the grocery store a week, and try to shop the perimeter of the store, as this where most of the healthful foods are. Take a detailed list of what you plan to eat, and avoid the temptations of the processed and high-sugar foods.

Another way to keep yourself eating healthy is to keep healthy snacks readily available wherever you go. Cut up vegetables, wash and prepare fruit and stock up on nuts. It helps to put them in single-serving containers so you can just grab them on your way out the door.

Also remember that if you give in to temptation, it's OK. Just get back on track with the next meal or snack.

Online Associate's Degree in Nutrition

Nutrition science is the study of a human's need for proper nourishment through food. Nutritionists provide assistance to patients in hospitals and care homes, educate the public about health eating habits and contribute to research and development in the field of nutrition. To be a nutritionist, one must first at least have an associate's degree in nutrition science, which can be obtained online.

Before enrolling in a nutrition program to earn an associate's degree online, a student must have a high school diploma or have received a GED, and have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher. An associate's degree program may also require students to have had taken basic courses of algebra, math and/or chemistry in high school.

Students wishing to take online courses towards a degree must also have a computer with a high-speed Internet connection along with an operating system and Internet browser that is compatible with the college's online database.

The coursework for an associate's degree in nutrition consists of classes in general science, food science and nutrition science. Students will learn how to plan and apply healthy diet routines as they focus on subjects such as food chemistry, weight management, metabolism and how to plan and apply healthy nutritional regimens. Other course subjects include culinary studies, biochemistry, nutrition therapy, physiology and sports nutrition. Some associate programs prepare students to earn licenses or certifications to become a registered dietetic technician. Most of the coursework covered prepares students to earn a bachelor's degree in the same field.

Those graduating with an online associate's degree are prepared to complete the training necessary to become a registered dietetic technician with the American Dietetic Association, or continue their education so they can earn a bachelor's degree.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates the need for dieticians will grow by 9% over the course of 10 years. The demand for nutritionists will grow as the demand for preventative health care rises. The places that hire nutritionists the most are hospitals, followed by nursing homes, government facilities, outpatient care establishments and specialty food service providers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that the average wages for a nutritionist is about $50,590, based on information they received in 2008.

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Purina Diabetic Diet for a Canine

Dogs can get diabetes, just like other animals. If your doctor has told you your dog has diabetes, or is at risk for diabetes, it is important to follow your vet's suggestions for a healthy diet. Purina has dog food that can provide a healthy diet for canines with diabetes. Nataline Smith, a veterinarian in Minneapolis, offers diabetic diet recommendations for dogs.

Feed dogs with diabetes a food like Purina that is high quality and low in sugar. Keep your dog on a high quality, high protein diet, to ensure they remain healthy.

Encourage dogs with diabetes to eat at least four or five times a day. Dogs that have diabetes, unless they are overweight, should be allowed access to dry food at night. This is because when a dog's blood sugar drops, he is going to feel like having a snack, and the snack can regulate his blood sugar. If there is dry food available to him, he'll be more likely to eat it and take care of his problem on his own. Overweight dogs that have developed diabetes because of their obesity need to be on a carefully controlled and portioned diet. Talk to your vet about the right amount of food per day, divide it into four or five meals, and set them down at the same time each day. Remove any food your dog does not eat in five minutes. He will learn to eat his food at mealtimes.

Feed your dog a Purina Diabetic Diet. This consists of Purina Canine DCO Diabetes Colitis food. This is a brand of food that Purina has especially designed to help provide better liver and enzyme functioning to dogs with diabetes. Nataline Smith says that most dogs with diabetes can benefit from eating this type of food, which is fortified with healthy ingredients, and does not have any harmful sugars or preservatives.

What Does Vinegar Do for a Diet?

Vinegar, in particular Apple Cider Vinegar has long been used for assisting in weight loss and improving overall health. Safe to use without any known side effects, apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apple juice. The use of vinegar in weight loss has many benefits, in addition to its uses as a healthy resource for a variety of ailments. The pH levels of apple cider vinegar are known to be beneficial to the health of an individual and vinegar is regarded as one of the safest, natural weight loss supplements used today.

Receive important vitamins and minerals through apple cider vinegar. This type of vinegar has a multitude of important vitamins including vitamins A, C, E, P and the B1, 2 and 6 complexes. Minerals such as iron, manganese, calcium, copper, silicon, chlorine, sulphur, sodium, phosphorus and fluorine are all found within apple cider vinegar. In addition to all of the vitamins and minerals, the vinegar contains amino acids and enzymes that are ideal to incorporate into a healthy diet.

Drink apple cider vinegar for weight loss

Take two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in eight ounces of water before each meal. The ingredients in apple cider vinegar help detox the liver and promote healthy weight loss. For centuries, apple cider vinegar has been used to aid in weight loss, primarily because the ingredients of the vinegar help digestion and increase the metabolism. Apple cider vinegar and water with each meal also helps individuals to consume less food, because they suppress their appetites with a large glass of water beforehand. The acids and enzymes in vinegar also help restore healthy digestive levels internally.

Reap the health benefits of taking apple cider vinegar with each meal to aid in weight loss. The potassium found in apple cider vinegar also works to get rid of toxic buildup within the body, as well as breaking down the fat cells. Apple cider vinegar is a natural and safe to use supplement in weight loss, and might be one of the most unique ways to help lose weight in conjunction with it helping many other internal and external ailments.

Increase levels of health by incorporating apple cider vinegar into daily life. In addition to weight loss, apple cider vinegar has been known to treat or improve a number of ailments including: congestion, digestion, respiratory ailments, blood pressure, bone development, diabetes and cholesterol. With the amount of benefits that apple cider vinegar has to offer individuals, it is suggested to be made part of any diet, regardless of whether or not there needs to be weight lost.

Take apple cider vinegar in a variety of ways. Nutritionists also suggest that apple cider vinegar is taken with vitamin B6, kelp and lecithin to help promote additional weight loss benefits. There are various ways to take apple cider vinegar, either in its liquid form with a glass of water, or with capsules or tablets found at any retail store in the vitamin section or health food store. To maintain a healthy life, take apple cider vinegar regardless of the need to lose weight.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

The Best Low Carb Diet

The trend of low-carbohydrate diets has received much attention in recent years. Many diet trends, such as the Atkins diet, South Beach diet and low-GI diets, all adhere to similar principles of limiting the intake of simple carbohydrates while increasing lean protein and dietary fiber amounts. Each diet functions slightly differently and will have different results depending on the dieter's metabolism and lifestyle. Since each dieter is different, there is no "best" low carb diet; however, examining each different diet will allow the dieter to choose the one best for her particular body and goals.

The Atkins Nutritional Approach, also called the Atkins Diet, has received much press coverage. This diet was created by Robert Atkins, MD, in 1972 and modified with a new nutritional approach with his 2002 book, "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution."

The principles of this diet limit the dieter to approximately 20g of "net carbohydrates" per day, and then gradually increase that amount as the diet progresses. Net carbs are calculated by reading the nutrition label and subtracting dietary fiber and sugar alcohol carbs from the total carbohydrate count to get the "net carb" count - the carbohydrates that actually impact the body. The diet is divided into four "phases" - induction, ongoing weight loss, pre-maintenance and lifetime maintenance.

Induction is the most limited phase. There, the dieter is limited to 20g net carbs per day. This phase forbids all simple carbohydrates, most complex carbohydrates and even most naturally occurring sugars, such as fruits and certain vegetables. This phase puts the body into a state of ketosis, in which the body burns stored fat as fuel. Following the induction phases, the dieter adds carbohydrates back in the form of fiber-rich complex carbohydrates. Once the weight loss goal is achieved, the dieter enters the lifetime maintenance stage, where the amount of carb intake is balanced so the dieter neither gains nor loses weight. This diet is effective but limiting. It requires adherence to the principles of the phases that constrict daily choices. Finding Atkins-friendly meals can be a challenge, and the supplement bars and shakes sold by the Atkins Company can be expensive.

Arthur Agatston, MD, created the South Beach Diet in the mid-1990s as a part of his cardiology practice. Similar to the Atkins diet, this diet places emphasis on replacing simple carbohydrates with complex carbs rich in fiber that do not cause the body to produce too much insulin.

Like the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet is divided into phases. The first phase is similar to the Atkins induction phase, in which carbohydrate intake is restricted and dieters focus on intake of lean proteins and vegetables. In the second phase, the restrictions are lifted slightly to allow the dieter to enjoy complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, whole wheat pastas and breads, and other fiber rich alternatives. This balanced approach leads to continued weight loss, which is then followed up, like Atkins, with a maintenance phase in which balance between carb intake and weight is achieved.

Considerably less restrictive than the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet approaches carbs as necessary. The allowance of whole grains and other complex carbohydrates make this diet somewhat easier to adhere to in the long term. It is, however, still restricted in that dieters must adhere to the rules of the diet, which can be difficult when dining out.

Another carbohydrate restricting diet is the GI Diet. This plan focuses on food's influence upon the blood sugar. High GI foods have a greater impact, impeding fat burn and weight loss, where low GI foods have a lesser impact. Principles of the GI diet are straightforward. They allow for much of the same foods as the Atkins and South Beach diets, steering the dieter toward increasing the intake of lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables. The main tenet of the GI diet is balance--if a high GI food is eaten, it should be eaten in conjunction with a low GI food to balance the impact upon blood sugar. Out of the three diets, this is the least restrictive, but this can mean that the dieter may find it easier to stray, thus making the diet less effective. On any low carb diet, it is important that the dieter gauge her body's reactions to the changes made and adjust accordingly--what works for one dieter, be it Atkins, South Beach or low GI--may not work for another.

How to Drink Grapefruit Juice to Get Rid of Cellulite

The grapefruit is a superfood that can greatly improve the appearance of your legs, stomach and buttocks by minimizing unsightly cellulite. Grapefruit juice is rich in natural anti-inflammatories called bioflavonoids, which are great for your skin. It also stimulates fat burning. Squeeze your own fresh grapefruit juice to get the maximum nutrients. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Cut a grapefruit in half.

Follow the instructions for your juicer to make fresh grapefruit juice.

Drink one full glass of grapefruit juice every morning. The flavonoids in the juice support the blood supply to the skin and stimulate fat burning.

Expand your fresh juice repertoire so you don't get bored. Make grapefruit, orange and celery juice by combining one grapefruit, two oranges and two stalks of celery.

Add fresh mint to the juice to remove toxins from fat tissue.

Eat a grapefruit as an afternoon snack to maximize your intake of bioflavonoids.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Fastest Free Way to Lose Weight

Losing weight can be difficult, but it doesn't have to cost a lot of money. You can have a healthy steady weight loss without joining clubs, buying special food, paying dues, going to a gym or any of the other ways that people pay to lose weight. In fact, if you eat out at restaurants or fast food places a lot, it may save you money. It does take some planning and determination, but getting to your ideal weight can be absolutely free.

Before you begin your weight loss plan, you need to do a little bit of planning. How much weight do you want to lose? According to the Mayo Clinic, aiming for a one to two pound loss per week is healthy and realistic. This means that you have to reduce your calorie intake by five hundred to a thousand calories per day, through a combination of eating less and burning off more. There are many free resources online that will show you the calorie count of foods, as well as free sites such as Sparkpeople, with tools to help you plan and track your diet.

Find out how many calories per day you need to eat for weight loss. Use free online resources as much as possible. Start to plan your food a week at a time, using a variety of healthy low-fat recipes. Make sure that you get a variety of foods each day, and add treats to the menu, too. Don't starve yourself or make the food plan too harsh; just subtracting some of the worst foods from your usual diet is sometimes enough to start your weight loss. Plan to make this a journey that takes time, not an overnight cure.

You don't need to join a gym or health club to work out. Some of the best and most fun workouts are free. If you haven't exercised in a long time, begin by walking. Even slow strolling or short walks can help in losing weight. If you can only go one block today, aim for a block and a half next week. Slowly increase your stamina until you're ready for other activities. If you're in a bit better shape, have fun with your exercise. Play frisbee or catch with your kids. Walk or run with the dog. Go rollerblading, play basketball, bounce a ball against a wall, hike in the woods, climb stairs in a big building, dance to the radio or favorite CDs. Anything that makes your body move and makes you sweat counts toward exercise for the day, so use your imagination.

After the hard work, you deserve to see the results. Make a chart for your wall with a graph to mark your weight each week. Make a paperclip chain, adding one clip for every pound you lose. Add a new pushpin to a design board for every pound or half pound of weight loss. However you commemorate the loss, don't forget to treat yourself for milestones. New books or CDs, new earrings or t-shirts, a day of pampering at home, a new herbal tea flavor. You deserve a treat for every five or ten pounds lost. Just don't make it any of the food you've been avoiding. Food shouldn't be a treat anymore, just fuel for your body to make it move more.

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Foods With Absolutely No Carbs

No- and low-carb diets have made their mark with well-known plans, such as Anabolic and Atkins diets. People who are looking for an effective way to lose weight may choose these types of diets. Although most of these diets incorporate at least some carbohydrates into their plan, many dieters are looking for foods that have no carbohydrates.

Pork is just one of the many no carb proteins dieter may eat.

A food packed with protein and meat products, such as seafood, eggs, poultry, beef and pork, is the type of food most low-carb dieters choose to eat as it helps the dieter feel full throughout the day. No-carb dieters should stay away from processed meats that might have added carbs and meat that has been breaded. The recommended serving size for meat during a low carb diet is 4 oz.

Toss chesse in a salad, spread it on a low-carb cracker or simply snack on a cube all by itself. While most cheese has some carbohydrate content, options such as brie, camembert, gruyere, limburger, monterey and port de salut are recorded by Diet & Fitness Today to have zero carbohydrates. It is recommended that dieters consume only 3 to 4 oz. of cheese a day.

Butter does not have carbs, although it does contain fat.

Although you usually wouldn't eat these products on their own, these items are great to enhance flavor or to aid in the cooking process. By themselves, most seasonings do not contain any carbohydrates unless sugar has been added. Products such as butter, vinegar, salt, and cooking oils don't contain carbs and are useful for flavoring meats.

Coffee is a warm no-carb drink that is comforting on a cold day.

Believe it or not, there are some alcoholic beverages that do not contain carbohydrates. Michelob Ultra is the only beer known to have zero carbs, but other alcohol choices include distilled gin, whiskey, rum and vodka. Diet sodas with aspartame or some other sugarless sweetener do not contain carbohydrates; coffee, tea and even some low-calorie lemonades contain aspartame instead of sugar.

Negative Effects of a No Carb Diet

Although the no- and low-carb craze has become increasingly popular, there is a dark side to existing on a diet that contains no carbohydrates. Many dieters enjoy the quick and dramatic weight loss effects garnered from cutting carbs, however if you remain on a carbohydrate-restricted diet for an extended period of time, you could create health problems with serious consequences.

Carbohydrates feed more than just the muscle tissue; it also helps brain tissue function properly. A 2003 study conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) found that 29 percent of low- or no-carb participants said that they had difficulty concentrating and focusing during daily activities. Other reported effects included "light-headedness, vertigo attacks and feeling foggy." The research was based on an online program that invited people who used a high protein, low-carbohydrate diet to lose weight.

The PCRM researchers also said that when you eat less than 40 grams of carbohydrates per day you create a glucose deficiency in the brain which results in the reported neurological symptoms. One participant reported problems after only being on the diet for a short amount of time. Dangerous impacts of these symptoms could include impairment performing daily tasks such as driving, using heavy machinery or making important decisions.

When you slash carbs and boost protein-fueled food you run the risk of reduced kidney function. In fact, if you consume a large amount of animal products over an extended period of time, you can permanently lose all kidney function. The PCRM found that 19 percent of its study participants reported some sort of kidney problem after following a restricted carbohydrate diet. Eighty-nine percent said that they had reduced kidney function and 10 percent reported experiencing kidney stones. The American Academy of Family Physicians says that a high protein diet reduces renal calcium re-absorption which results in kidney stones.

Gout is another disease plaguing many high protein, carb-restricted dieters. Five percent of the PCRM participants reported gout symptoms due to the protein driven uric acid crystals forming in the joint fluid. Gout causes excruciating pain and can be a debilitating disease.

The American Heart Association (AHA) warns against following a no- or low-carb diet for weight loss because it restricts the amount of important vitamins and minerals you get, and it increases your risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. The AHA adds that when you reduce plant-based, healthy carbohydrates you ultimately increase the animal-based proteins, which raises cholesterol levels and puts you at greater risk for heart disease.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

The Uses of Grapefruit Oil

Extracted from Citrus paradisi, grapefruit oil comes from the glands deep withing the peel of the fruit. Also known as Shaddock, this essential oil has been proven to have many helpful medicinal uses in addition to boosting overall health. With a ruby red or pale yellow color, grapefruit oil has a fresh crisp aroma.

Like all citrus fruit, grapefruit is high in Vitamin C, which helps improve immune function. Drinking a few drops of grapefruit oil mixed with a glass of water can help fight sickness during the cold and flu season. Take the oil regularly as a preventative measure or drink it when sick to heal faster.

Grapefruit oil has the benefit of relaxing the mind and body. When taken regularly, herbalists suggest it improves mood and promotes positive feelings of hope. Grapefruit oil stimulates the endocrine glands in the brain to help with the secretion of hormones and enzymes. By doing this it keeps the entire metabolism in tip-top shape, as well as promoting better brain function.

Grapefruit oil acts as a diuretic and helps improve lymphatic function. The lymphatic system is an important part of removing harmful toxins from the body. As a diuretic, grapefruit oil helps to clear the body of toxins by inducing more efficient and cleansing urination. It helps to remove extra fat, sodium and other toxins from your system and reduces blood pressure. Taking a bit of grapefruit oil also helps fight problems like cellulite, rheumatism, and arthritis.

More than just promoting better all around health, grapefruit oil is helpful in fighting infections in your system. When diagnosed with an infection in the colon, stomach, intestines, urinary system or kidneys many patients use grapefruit oil in addition to the medicines prescribed by a doctor. Doing so helps to speed along recovery. It can also be used to fight both oral and skin infections.

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

How to Follow Official Diets Developed by the Mayo Clinic

For years bogus diets have claimed to be backed by the famous Mayo Clinic, the world's largest not-for-profit medical practice. Impostors have ranged from the grapefruit diet to the cabbage soup diet and the bacon diet. All the while, the Mayo Clinic has fought off any association with these Atkins-inspired, restrictive, short-term diets.

Finally, Mayo Clinic health experts have created an approved and official diet plan to arm the calorie-conscious masses who turn to them for medical advice with a handbook full of sensible recommendations.

The real Mayo Clinic diet instructions represent collaboration between 3,300 staff health professionals to bring you the most current, reasonable and proven strategies for permanent weight loss. This plan could not be further from the program presented in the "grapefruit diet".

Instructions

Read the book.

The new Mayo Clinic diet instructions are clearly formatted in the 244-page tome edited by the Mayo Clinic staff. Before you start the plan, read the book cover to cover. It is full of sensible diet basics, pointers and advice that build a positive foundation for changing your eating and exercise habits.

Additionally, be sure to buy the accompanying journal so that you can record your progress once you start the diet. The journal format makes it easy to track your improvements, changes and challenges throughout the program.

Be ready.

The new Mayo Clinic diet is not a simple two-week endeavor like the grapefruit diet - it is a lifestyle change.

Make sure you want to commit to a lifestyle change before you embark on the plan. It may help to copy the Mayo Clinic diet instructions down and ruminate on them for a few days, focusing on the positive changes the diet instructions will bring to your life. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic health experts recommend that you pick a start date and mentally prepare yourself to begin the plan.

Start the the first phase.

The diet plan includes two phases: "Lose It" and "Live It". The two-week "Lose It" phase focuses on adding five healthy habits, breaking five bad habits and attempting to adapt five bonus habits. In the "Live It" phase, an adherent focuses on setting weight loss goals, recognizing food portions and creating healthy exercise habits.

Add five habits.

The first step in the Mayo Clinic diet instructions seems simple: add five healthy habits to your day-to-day life. Mayo Clinic health experts recommend that you exercise, focus on eating breakfast and load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats throughout the day. The book gives simple, upbeat suggestions for implementing each habit they want you to add.

Break five habits.

Do you turn on the TV during dinner? Eat a sugary snack for an afternoon energy boost? The new Mayo Clinic diet plan talks about the detrimental effects of these and other unhealthy habits. The health organization encourages you to change your bad eating patterns by giving them up cold turkey for the first two weeks of the plan.

Adapt bonus habits.

Through out the "Lose It" phase, in addition to the 10 basic habits you are making and breaking, the new Mayo Clinic diet has bonus habits to help you realize your weight loss goals faster.

While these habits are not mandatory, once you read the sensible and effective suggestions it may be hard not to follow them! They include keeping a food and exercise journal and slowly increasing the amount of exercise you get each day. The suggestions will help you lay down the groundwork for a serious lifestyle change.

Start phase two.

"Live It" by following Mayo Clinic diet instructions to create a sustainable, healthy routine that includes setting continual weight loss goals, eating slowly, overcoming food cravings and creating a realistic, long-term exercise program.

In this section of the diet you learn to recognize serving sizes and fit exercise into even the busiest of days. There are helpful tips and illustrations, along with an important section on when to check in with your doctor about your weight loss plan.

All the extra stuff.

The new Mayo Clinic diet book includes a section they nonchalantly refer to as "all the extra stuff". Don't let the title fool you. These chapters include important resources like a Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator; an explanation of calories, macronutrients and micronutrients; and a section on how to determine your eating triggers and lots of healthy, easy to prepare recipes. You can reference this section indefinitely to keep a healthy lifestyle.

Make time for reflection.

The new Mayo Clinic diet focuses on recording goals and writing down food intake and exercise habits because this provides an important time for reflection. At the end of every day (or every week) carve out 5-15 minutes to focus on your goals, your successes and your challenges. It will keep you focused on your weight loss plan and allow you to create a path of progress.

Refer back.

The Mayo Clinic diet plan is not designed to be a strict linear experience. If you are having trouble in the "Live It" section, refer back to the "Lose It" section and focus on deepening your commitment to the basic healthy eating and exercise habits. On any day that you are having trouble with your weight loss plan, simply flip open the book and read a few pages for advice and encouragement. This is one diet book you will want to keep on your reference shelf for years to come.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Weight Loss Programs Covered by United Health Care Insurance

United Health Care encourages employers to participate in a wellness program for their employees. Depending on what plan you have, you may be eligible for discounts on diet programs such as Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig. To find out if you qualify, contact United Health Care directly.

United Health Care encourages employers to focus on preventative medicine in an effort to cost medical costs. They claim that the returns for doing so can amount up to $3 to $6 on the dollar within a 2- to 5-year period. According to the insurance carrier, more than half of the adults in the United States are inactive, and one-third were obese from 2003 to 2004. Cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes type 2 are some of the diseases that can be offset by losing weight with your employer's wellness program. Through United Health Care's health discount program, users can save 10 to 50 percent on a variety of health care products.

Weight Watchers is a plan that includes counseling and food monitoring through a process called POINTS. POINTS take into account the calories, fat and dietary fiber in each item of food and gives it a POINTS value. Alternatively, dieters may stick to a certain list of whole, unprocessed foods and stop eating when they are full. Weight Watchers also encourages physical activity, water consumption, multivitamin intake and and a well-balance diet of fruits, vegetables, lean dairy and protein, and whole grains. Customers attend a weekly meeting and talk with others about their diet and exercise issues. Alternatively, customers can opt in an online or at-work program.

Jenny Craig is a plan that focuses on calorie consumption and provides customers with prepackaged foods that they then supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks are all supplied by the Jenny Craig system, and customers must strictly adhere to their daily caloric allowances. In a more private setting, compared to Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig customers are assigned to a counselor who meets weekly to discuss diet, exercise and life issues.

United Health Care also has its own portal that can be used as a weight loss program. There are various tools and resources, including health care assessments and articles with pertinent information for those trying to lose weight. Other tools include a meal plan, a portion sizer, a food journal and an online health coach to help you reach your weight-loss goals.

Check with your health insurance carrier for other products that are eligible for a discount through United Health Care. These may include a membership to Curves and other health clubs, as well as NordicTrack equipment.

Sunday, August 18, 2013

No-Carb Dinner Ideas

For those on restricted diets, carbohydrates may seem like the enemy. Learning to eat foods that are healthy but are low in carbohydrates reduces blood sugar levels and promotes healthy weight. It is not always easy to break old habits, but you can choose healthy meals that are low in carbohydrates yet bursting with flavor. Once you get past the idea that you are being deprived of your favorite foods, you may find that your new diet provides more flavor and texture that you ever thought possible. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Make cauliflower rice as a substitute for regular rice. Although it is not carbohydrate free, one serving has a mere 4 g of carbohydrates compared to the 30 g or more of carbohydrates in regular rice. Simply grate one head of cauliflower, including the stalk, in a food processor or with a hand grater to the consistency of rice. Saute two cloves of minced garlic in 2 tbsp. of vegetable oil or melted butter. Add the cauliflower and saute until crisp tender. Add green onions or other seasonings of your choice. Serve as rice with meats and vegetables.

Substitute spaghetti squash for pasta. This tasty vegetable has only 4 g of carbohydrates per serving and closely resembles the texture of spaghetti. Serve with sauce, meats and veggies or as a side dish with a dash of herbs and melted butter.

Stir fry or grill lean meats like chicken and pork. Season with vinegar and herbs and spices for lots of flavor without the added carbohydrates from bottle sauces and marinades. Onions, chives, garlic and fresh herbs like oregano, thyme and basil pack a lot of flavor without adding carbohydrates.

Grill or steam low carbohydrate vegetables like onions, peppers and mushrooms with broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini and summer squash. Add herbs of your choice for a delicious low carbohydrate treat.

Serve a fresh green salad made from lettuce, cucumbers, radish and other green, leafy vegetables. Consider adding spinach, beet greens, kale or cabbage. Top with finely grated cheese for a boost of flavor. Make your own dressing with vinegar, olive oil and your favorite herbs or try a splash of lemon juice to spice up flavor without adding carbohydrates.

Substitute low-carb tortillas for bread with your meal. Brush with olive oil and minced garlic and toast in the oven or over the grill for a crunchy accompaniment in place of breads.

Develop the habit of combining a variety of foods in your meals. Providing a range of flavors and textures prevents you from craving the carbohydrates you are used to consuming. Before you know it, you will be so accustomed to eating your new low carbohydrate diet that you will wonder why you never tried it before.

Easiest & Fastest Way to Lose Weight

Losing weight is never an easy thing, and many who want to lose weight often want to choose the easiest and fastest way available. This involves careful research and understanding what the long-term goals are. In the end, the easiest and fastest way to lose weight is not necessarily the same for everyone, but there are some general guidelines to follow.

Exercising is a hard routine for many people to get into. Making sure you have a plan offers accountability. Start a plan by saying how many times a week you want to exercise. Four would be a good start. Next, fill in those days with times and certain exercises. In some cases, even choosing a starting time may be desired, if you are especially organized and need that time to establish that routine. Goals should be realistic as well. For example, the Mayo Clinic recommends setting a weekly weight loss goal of one to two pounds per week.

Despite all the fad diets available, there is still one basic thing that must take place in order to lose weight. You must expend more calories than you take in. Keep that equation in perfect balance and you maintain weight. Take more calories than you expend, and you'll gain weight. Get a calorie counter or go online for calorie counters (see "Resources" below).

Though many feel like losing weight is a process of self starvation, there is a way to get around that. As stated above, the goal is to watch your calories and expend more than you take in. That does not mean it is necessary to cut calories in all cases. In some cases, simply adding more activity may be the key to losing weight. Exercise should focus on cardiovascular activities, such as aerobics, kick boxing, walking, jogging, cycling or swimming.

Many make the mistake of doing too much too quickly, which is not the easiest or fastest way to lose weight, though many may think so. Failing to ease into an exercise routine gives your body less chance to adjust to the new demands. That can lead to muscle fatigue, which could cause poor form on some exercises and injury, including injuries to the bones or joints. This could very much cause a delay in your exercise goals, so be careful. There is nothing wrong with taking it slow at first.

Rapid Weight Loss Help

Losing weight can be a mighty ordeal for many overweight people. The thought of lengthy, rigorous diet and exercise programs, and employing strict discipline, can be a bit overwhelming. Hence many people surrender to the battle of the bulge and never lose the weight. However, there are ways to lose weight quickly and healthfully, but applying discipline is inescapable.

Drinking water to achieve rapid weight loss is a well-known tactic--one that works very well. Sodas and juices are often laden with calories and are some of the biggest contributors of weight gain. Drink 8 glasses of water every day. This will cleanse the toxins from your body and keep you hydrated. Toxins include residue from alcohol, tobacco, prescription drugs, bacteria and yeast that have settled inside your body. So along with purifying your body, drinking water makes your stomach feel full, reducing the urge to eat as much.

You can eat more than three times per day. However, in order to lose weight rapidly, you must cut back on your normal consumption. To boost your metabolism and shed fat rapidly, eat low-fat, protein-filled foods such as meat, fish, nuts and beans. Though you must reduce your calorie intake in order to lose weight quickly, do so wisely.

Do not dramatically cut your calorie intake, because to compensate for a lack of calories, your body will have to utilize all the available calories, which will reduce your metabolism. Do not drink alcohol, as it prohibits the fat-burning process and encourages fat storage. You can also try a low Glycemic Index (GI) diet. By consuming high amounts of vegetables and fruits that have a low GI ranking, your body quickly burns more fat and calories.

If you lose weight without exercising, your will skin will suffer from sagging. This is one of the reasons why diet plus exercise is so highly recommended. Exercise can help to build muscles, but if you are aiming for rapid weight loss, it is best to create a weight lifting routine instead. Not only does lifting weights encourage weight loss, it speeds up your metabolism as well. If you choose to do traditional exercise, refrain from lengthy workout sessions. Break up your sessions in segments. For example, walk or jog for 15 minutes in the mornings, walk again during lunch period for 15 minutes, and exercise for a few more minutes in the evenings. Though losing weight quickly is definitely possible, you must be committed in order to see results.

Saturday, August 17, 2013

What Is in Mentos That Makes Soda Explode?

While there have been no serious scientific studies of what makes Mentos candies cause soda to explode, the reason is fairly well explained by scientists such as Steve Spangler who understand surface tension and fluid dynamics.

Mentos candies contain both gelatin and gum arabic, two chemicals that can rip apart the surface tension holding together the molecules of fluids. The pressurized CO2 that makes a soda bubble contains potential energy bound up in the attractive force of the fluid. When the candies are dropped to the bottom of a bottle of soda, they tear the surface tension of the soda, violently releasing the CO2 in a caramel-colored explosion.

What Is the Quickest Way to Lose Weight?

The fastest way to lose weight is by combining a sound diet and daily exercise that will allow you to diet and burn off at least 3,500 calories per week. While this may not seem like much, to make the weight loss permanent, a change in lifestyle has to occur. If you consult a doctor, the general guideline is to lose no more than a pound to a pound and a half per week. Exercising appropriately at least four to five times a week will greatly speed your lasting weight loss efforts.

Check with you doctor if you have been on diets before and they did not work. If you have any chronic diseases or take any prescription medications, also check with your physician.
If your goal is to lose 20 lbs., do the math. One pound is 3,500 calories. Trimming 500 calories from your daily intake should allow you to shed 1 lb. per week. That makes it 5 months to lose 20 lbs. You might bump that weight loss up to 1.5 lbs. if you are exercising daily or at least four to five times a week. Exercise will increase your metabolism and increase the energy needs of every cell, thereby burning more calories. That cuts the time down to 3.5 months.
Avoid fad diets that promise weight loss of more than 1.5 lbs. per week; that is water weight that will return once you are properly hydrated.

Quick solutions are often unhealthy solutions when it comes to weight loss. If you simply starve yourself on very-low calorie diet, you are probably not getting all the protein and vitamin and minerals you need to remain healthy. Any diet below 1,200 calories a day for an adult is too low. A safe and lasting way to lose weight is to have your doctor or nutritionist determine how much weight you need to lose (along with your preference) and devise a diet to suit you.
Fad diets that eliminate entire groups of foods, such as carbohydrates or fruits, can be hard to sustain. It is easy to fall off the bandwagon if you do not eat any dairy, bread or fruit, for instance. Instead, select a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of whole foods: lean proteins, legumes, low-fat dairy, fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
Hire a personal trainer to help you design a realistic exercise plan. Start by walking 30 minutes a day; you can divide that into walking for 10 minutes after each meal. This can be done even on very busy days at the office--give yourself that 10-minute walk before returning back to your desk.
Adding resistance training will build more lean muscle tissue to boost your metabolism to safely increase your weight loss over time. Any exercise that you enjoy and can perform consistently and safely is the one to do. Swimming, biking as well as climbing stairs, parking the car further away to walk an extra 5 minutes to your destination all counts as exercise.

If you have any serious medical issues you must get medical clearance from your doctor. If you have lost and gained weight repeatedly or have not exercised for more than 2 weeks, also get a medical clearance.
For example, if you have hypertension, physicians will ask you work with a personal trainer to learn how to safely take your heart rate and to not go above a certain level of exertion.
If you are pregnant, it is not appropriate to be on a weight loss diet until the baby is delivered. You will already be receiving detailed nutritional advice from your doctor for pregnancy care.

Losing weight permanently will require a permanent change in the way you eat and exercise. Once you reach your target weight, do not return to your days of being sedentary or binging; it is easy to regain the weight back.
By keeping within a few pounds of your doctor-approved healthy weight and maintaining a baseline of physical fitness, you are making your health and well-being a priority. Weight management and regular exercise greatly reduces the risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, obesity and some types of cancer such as colon cancer.
Keeping your weight under control and exercising regularly also act as effective tools for stress management. Anything that will reduce stress levels will also reduce your risk for chronic disease.

Losing more than 1.5 lbs. per week is generally not recommended, so if your goal is to lose more than that, you must be under medical supervision.
There may be a life-threatening case of gross obesity when a person is more than 30 percent over the ideal weight. In such cases, hospitalization may be required.
If you have a history of eating disorders or "yo-yo dieting" where you lost and regained even more weight back, seek professional help. In each case, there are several factors to consider, and professional medical advice is the best avenue to take.
Avoid taking diet pills or anything that is sold as a way to increase your metabolism. The fastest way to lose weight is to make permanent lifestyle changes.

Friday, August 16, 2013

The Best High Carbohydrate Diets

Although low-carbohydrate diets have been receiving a fair amount of press, low-fat diets are still a viable means for promoting weight loss for people who can't adhere to the strictness required by the low-carb lifestyle. The reality is that any diet that allows your body to burn more calories than it is consuming can be effective for fat loss. The issue is not so much the diet itself, but the extent to which it is followed. With that in mind, here are the best ways to make a high-carbohydrate diet work for you.

Understand that although a diet might be high in carbohydrates, that does not necessarily mean the diet espouses all types of carbs. There are healthy carbohydrates and unhealthy carbs, and knowing the difference is the key to keeping weight off long-term.

Generally speaking, unhealthy carbohydrates cause blood sugar levels to spike unnecessarily. These include fast-digesting items such as sugars, alcohol, and refined flour. Healthy carbs have a relatively nominal effect on blood sugar levels; these include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains (wheat, oats, barley, and rye).

A good rule of thumb is that the more unaltered the carb source is from its natural state, the better it is for your dieting. Fruits and vegetables are generally served in an unaltered state, making them superior carb choices for dieters. Sugars and refined flour require lengthy processes to convert them from their natural state. Pair your high-carb meals with plenty of lean protein from meat and dairy sources.

Finally, keep fat intake low--around 30 percent of your total daily calories. Also, take in far more healthy unsaturated fats than unhealthy saturated and trans-fats.

A sample menu on a high-carb diet: Breakfast, two whole-grain blueberry or strawberry pancakes without syrup or butter; a lean breakfast meat such as Canadian bacon, turkey bacon, or turkey sausage; and a piece of fruit on the side.

Lunch might consist of a turkey sandwich on nine-grain bread with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a glass of low-fat milk.

Dinner might contain chicken with whole-grain pasta or brown rice, a large garden salad, and 100 percent whole-wheat dinner rolls.

Throughout the day, feel free to snack on dried fruits and nuts, as this provides vitamins, nutrients and healthy fats.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

High-Fiber, High-Protein & Low-Carb Foods

High-fiber, high-protein and low-carbohydrate foods provide the protein needed for muscle maintenance and the fiber required for healthy bowel movements. Meanwhile, they fill the body with a minimal amount of starch and carbohydrates, which helps promote weight loss. Such foods are good for people who are trying to lose weight, as well as bodybuilders. Unfortunately, there are very few foods that fit all three qualifications. Instead, most food fits into one or two.

Meats and dairy products offer a lot of protein with a few carbohydrates, but they contain very little fiber. They should still be incorporated in your diet, however, because they have other essential nutrients. Avoid eating processed meats and diary products like breaded chicken patties, hamburgers, and prepackaged milk and eggs. Instead, stick to organic, farmer-market foods. Some good high-protein and low-carb meats and dairy products include chicken, tuna, salmon, turkey, egg whites, soy milk, soy yogurt, shellfish and extra-lean ground beef.

Greens and vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, green peas, Brussels sprouts, radishes, cucumbers, bamboo shoots and turnip greens are loaded with fiber but contain very few carbohydrates. They also possess almost no protein. Even spinach, which many assume is a good source of protein, offers only 12 grams of it per 100 calories. That means you'd have to eat an entire pound of it to get enough protein for one meal. Other high-fiber and low-carb vegetables include romaine lettuce, Swiss chard, artichokes and green peas.

Legumes, nuts and seeds are the only foods that are high-protein, high-fiber, and low-carb. Many of them, however, are also loaded with many fats. Good legume, nut and seed foods include almonds, acorns, pecans, cashews, beans, lentils, tofu, black beans, garbanzo beans, tree nuts, peanuts, macadamia nuts, pistachio nuts, sunflower seeds and flax seeds.

Like vegetables, fruits are high-fiber and low-carb, but they too contain almost no protein. However, they're extremely healthy and full of antioxidants. Include strawberries, dates, prunes, raspberries, apples, peaches, blackberries, apricots, figs and oranges in your diet for bulk with low carbs.

Monday, August 12, 2013

About Herbal Weight Loss Programs

There are many weight loss methods, from diets and exercise programs to programs that use drugs and herbal supplements. Herbal weight loss programs are quite popular because many people view them as being safer than drugs. Some of these programs claim to deliver fast results without diet and exercise, which increases their appeal. There is no magic weight loss herb; although some may support weight loss, users must be realistic about what to expect. They also need to know that herbs can have risks just like drugs and must be used carefully.

Some herbal weight loss programs depend on herbs like yerba mate and guarana that have a stimulant effect on the body. Stimulant herbs should be used with caution, as they can lead to high blood pressure, heart problems and other conditions. In 2004, the Food and Drug Administration banned the herbal stimulant ma-hung (ephedra) because of its links to illness and death in some users. They may also interfere with the action of prescribed medications.

Some herbs used for weight loss, such as cascara, have a laxative effect on the body. Cascara is actually approved by the Food and Drug Administration for laxative use, but it can cause problems if used in excess as part of a weight loss program. It can cause problems with certain minerals in the body and can interact with certain medications.

Some herbal weight loss programs use herbs or plants with a diuretic effect, such as dandelion, to promote the loss of water weight. This weight loss is not permanent because diuretics do not work on body fat. They can interfere with the action of prescription medications.

Some herbal weight loss programs claim to burn fat through various mechanisms. For example, green tea and pyruvate are said to increase metabolism and inhibit appetite, and hoodia is also claimed to be an appetite suppressant. Glucomannan is supposed to keep glucose from being absorbed by the intestines. Chromium is believe to affect insulin and the breakdown of carbohydrates in the body. Although there may be some evidence of effectiveness for some of these herbs, none has been shown conclusively to be an effective weight loss aid.

Herbal weight loss programs are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so they do not have to prove their effectiveness. The FDA can only step in if there is a safety concern like the situation with ephedra. The Mayo Clinic also warns that they can have side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and interference with sleep. Because there is no assurance that an herbal weight loss program works, consumers who consider using these programs should be cautious. Talk to your doctor before starting any herbal weight loss program to assess any possible interactions with your current medication.

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Are Low Carb Diets Bad?

Low carb diets, as with many other diets, can be healthy or unhealthy depending on the version of the diet that is followed. In addition, some individuals respond better to a low carb diet than other individuals. Low carb diets are helpful in managing diabetes and epilepsy, and have been shown to improve cholestrol.

Carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels, which is dangerous for diabetics, who have high blood sugar anyway. Reducing carbohydrate intake, and substituting complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables, for simple carbs, such as white bread, will improve a diabetic's blood sugar management.

A ketogenic diet, in which carbohydrate consumption is extremely low, is used to treat epilepsy. When the amount of carbohydrate in the diet is low enough that it cannot provide energy for daily activities, the body goes into ketosis. During ketosis, stored energy is converted into glucose to provide energy to the body. While extremely low carb diets have been used to treat epilepsy since the 1920's, science has not yet determined the reason for the success of this treatment.

Most people experience changes in their cholesterol levels after starting a low carb diet. Individual response may vary, but often, HDL levels increase, while triglycerides drop. While the cumulative change may be a higher overall cholesterol level, HDL cholesterol is the type of cholesterol that is also known as "good cholesterol," so this change is a positive one.

Eating a low carb diet, when approached in a moderate manner, can be a healthy choice. Substituting green leafy vegetables for french fries, whole grains for white bread, and naturally sweet fruits and berries for candy and other sugary treats, is a lower carb eating plan that provides more nutrients and a healthier diet.

When making any extreme changes to diet, such as starting a low carb diet, it is important to visit a doctor beforehand, to ensure that it is a healthy choice. In addition, a doctor can monitor weight loss, blood sugar, and overall health to ensure that the necessary nutrients are being consumed to maintain good health.

Food for a Low Carb Diet

A low-carb diet is not a "no-carb diet"; it's just a smart-carb diet, in which you can consume foods that have some carbohydrates but also fiber. What you have to watch out for are the high-carb "white and/or sweet" foods: white flour, white rice, white sugar and honey. There's an easy way to identify foods that are low carb: If they are a derivative of something that had hide, fur, fins or feathers, they're low carb.

Meat is the backbone of this diet; by tavogac

Meat is the backbone of a low-carb diet. The only meat you need to be cautious about are shellfish, which have some carbohydrates (oysters and mussels have the most). Also beware of processed meats such as ham, bacon, hot dogs and luncheon meat. They are usually cured with sugar, which adds carbs, or they may have been cured with nitrates, which are known carcinogens.

You can eat butter, chicken skin and other fats and oils. Avoid margarine as it usually contains hydrogenated oils (trans fats). Olive oil is especially beneficial. Cold-pressed oils are best, such as canola, sesame, sunflower, safflower and walnut.

Eggs can be eaten every day. This is the one diet where there is no limit to the number of eggs you eat. So, you can enjoy fried eggs in the morning, boiled eggs for lunch and a nice cheesy omelet topped by real bacon crumbles for dinner.

Cheese is an animal product and contains very few carbohydrates, making it a staple on a low-carbohydrate diet. Since all cheeses contain some carbs, you should consume only 3 to 4 ounces of full-fat, hard, soft or semi-soft cheese per day. Make sure you eat real cheese; imitation cheese products are not allowed on a low-carb diet.

The good vegetables are salad vegetables, which are high in phytonutrients and fiber. On a low-carb diet, you are permitted 2 to 3 cups per day of the following: alfalfa sprouts, mushrooms, chicory, jicama, radishes, chives, all lettuces, bok choy, peppers, parsley, endive, cucumber, celery, fennel, radicchio and sorrel. Just remember this list when you go out to dine, and look for restaurants that have salad bars.

Intake of these vegetables should be limited to 1 cup per day when combined in a salad from the "Good Vegetables" list, as long as the salad is a total of 2 cups. Some of these limited vegetables are: artichoke hearts, eggplant, spinach, broccoli, string beans, tomatoes, cauliflower, onions, zucchini, scallions, bean sprouts, snow peas, summer squash, spaghetti squash, bamboo shoots and asparagus.

Limit yourself to three strawberries; by lusi

While fruits are limited on a low-carb diet, some are permitted in limited quantities. A half-cup portion is all you are allowed for these fresh fruits: cherries, cranberries and raspberries. You are allowed half an avocado, half a grapefruit, 6 olives and 3 large strawberries.

Atkins Low Carb Diet Information

The Atkins low carb diet, named for its founder Dr. Robert Atkins, is designed for weight loss. It is also helpful for individuals who have blood sugar issues, including diabetes, pre-diabetes or insulin resistance. Properly followed, the Atkins low carb diet is an appropriate diet for anyone committed to making healthy food choices with lean proteins, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains.

When you eat carbohydrates, your body converts them to energy. If you have a surplus of this food energy, your body produces insulin to store it as fat. If you reduce your carbohydrate intake, then your body will burn stored fat for energy, causing you to lose weight. This is the science behind the Atkins diet.

The diet has four phases. The first phase of the diet is known as Induction. It is the most restrictive in terms of food choices and carbohydrate intake, and lasts two weeks. Some people choose to remain on Induction longer especially if they have a significant amount of weight to lose. Following Induction, you enter a period of Ongoing Weight Loss (OWL), during which you have more food choices and gradually increase your carbohydrate intake to find the maximum level you can consume while still losing weight. As you near your goal weight, you enter Pre-Maintenance, at which point your food choices are broader still and you prepare for the final phase of the diet, Lifetime Maintenance.

There are three common misconceptions about the Atkins diet. First, because the Atkins diet is a low carb diet, many people mistakenly think it is a no carbohydrate diet. Even in the Induction phase, which is the most strict, dieters choose from a variety of low carbohydrate vegetables. As you progress through the phases of the diet, you include more vegetables and fruits in your diet, along with nuts, seeds, and eventually whole grains. A second misconception is that you can "do the Atkins diet" just by counting and limiting your carb intake. Choosing appropriate carbs is just as important because all carbs are not equal for the purposes of this diet. Foods made with white flour and white sugar, for example, are never appropriate choices. A third misconception is that portion control is unimportant. Portion control is not usually an issue, but overall calorie intake can make a difference, particularly for those who are especially resistant to weight loss or nearing their goal weight.

The best source of information about the Atkins Diet remains Dr. Atkins' book, "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution." While there is an abundance of information available on the Internet, those who are most successful on the diet take the time to read the book and understand it fully.

The Induction phase of the Atkins Diet is very challenging. Many people consider it worth the challenge and discomfort because it "jump starts" your weight loss and reduces your cravings for carbohydrates. If you are not an experienced low carb dieter, or if you have health issues, you may prefer to lower your carbohydrate intake to 50 or 60 effective grams of carbohydrate per day before attempting Induction. Make sure to choose your carbohydrates from those on the approved list for OWL. If you are taking medications for diabetes, they may need to be adjusted. Do not begin any diet or make changes in your medication without consulting your health care provider.

Weight Loss Programs That Are Covered by Insurance

Many insurance companies offer good-health incentives to clients. These incentives provide insurance discounts to clients who improve or maintain healthy lifestyles. Various weight loss programs are covered by these programs, providing discounts of insurance premiums and paying for a percentage of the enrollment fee or the services offered by the diet program.

Jenny Craig customizes individual programs for its clients, focusing on diet, nutrition and exercise to make permanent lifestyle changes. Forming a healthy relationship with food to accomplish permanent weight loss is the program's goal. Activity level is gradually increased as you lose weight. Each client works with a Jenny Craig consultant to create a maintenance program after losing weight. Regence Life and Health Insurance Co. covers 50 percent of the cost of the Jenny Craig weight loss program. GHI Health Insurance Co. provides discounts to weight loss chains such as Jenny Craig as part of the company's Good Health Incentive.

CIGNA insurance provides health and wellness incentives with its Healthy Rewards discount program, which offers more than 28 discounts. This program offers clients discounts for participating in the NutriSystem weight management and nutrition program. This weight loss program offers gourmet foods delivered to your door. Programs are designed for men, women and diabetics. CIGNA's program provides discounts for gym memberships to GlobalFit, helping clients continue leading a healthy life. Diane Wynne, the program manager for the rewards program, says CIGNA wants people to attain better health by making programs and services affordable.

Unity Health Insurance reimburses clients who are members of the Weight Watchers weight loss plan. According to the insurance company's website, clients get a 50 percent discount with a six-month membership up to a one-time payment of $130 for Weight Watchers meeting attendance. At least 10 meeting during the six-month period must be attended for the reimbursement. New and Lifetime Weight Watchers members receive this reimbursement. Clients get a reimbursement of $50 each year after the first six months through Unity's Wellness First Program.

Medicare and other insurance companies cover a portion of cost of the Optifast weight loss program. This medically supervised weight loss program is a liquid diet and supplement program that treats obesity. Medicare and insurance companies cover the cost of Optifast counseling sessions, labs and other tests. Optifast clinics may provide payment plans to make up the difference of the covered portion of treatment.

Weight loss programs covered by insurance are part of insurance companies' health incentive programs. Call your insurance company for more information about weight loss programs that are covered because there are different stipulations as to how much of the program will be reimbursed. Policy changes may be necessary in order for the insurance company to pay for weight loss programs.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Recommended Diet for a Cat With Kidney Disease

Feline kidney disease, medically referred to as renal disease, is a serious condition that can lead to kidney (renal) failure if left untreated. Kidney failure inevitably progresses until the cat passes away. However, a cat suffering from kidney disease can benefit from a change in diet. Diet changes can prolong life and provide comfort and ease for the affected feline.

Often, a homemade diet is the best option for a cat suffering from kidney disease. However, homemade diets can be time-consuming.

A homemade kidney disease diet for cats should be low in protein. Avoid feeding beef, as it is among the highest in protein levels. Instead, aim to feed chicken or chicken liver. Chicken (liver) can be diced and paired with vegetables, lightly salted and served with boiled white rice.

The new diet should also be low in phosphorus and, if possible, contain calcium. Calcium can be added by giving small portions of cottage cheese or yogurt and will help entice a cat's appetite. However, it is important to feed them only in small doses to avoid too much protein intake.

Even with an ideal homemade diet, many cats will require vitamin supplementation. Common vitamin supplements include vitamin D, vitamin B, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids and potassium. However, these should be given only if recommended by a veterinarian. All dosing instructions as recommended by the veterinarian must be followed to ensure the cat does not become ill.

For owners who do not have enough time to cook their cat a new meal every day, there are brand-name options that can be bought through the cat's veterinarian or by prescription at local pet stores.

These diets are ideal for busy owners, because they can be fed at small intervals throughout the day without worry about whether the cats are receiving adequate levels of nutrition. Owners can also rest assured that their cats won't receive too much of any nutrient, such as protein or phosphorus.

Some popular brand name foods include Science Diet's k/d from their Prescription Diet line of foods, IVD Modified, Eukanuba Nutritional Kidney Formulations and CNM NF-FORMULA. All of these are safe for cats suffering from kidney disease or kidney failure.

Some of these companies also produce wet canned foods for feline kidney disease, which can also aid in water intake.

Along with a healthful diet, the cat should be provided with plenty of fresh water to drink. Many cats aren't frequent visitors to the water bowl, so consider investing in a pet water fountain. A water fountain provides running, filtered water, which is more appealing to a cat and can help encourage the cat to drink additional water.

Remedies to Control Cholesterol

There are two different types of cholesterol. Good cholesterol, referred to as HDL cholesterol, is naturally produced by the body and is vital for heart health. Conversely, bad cholesterol, or LDL, is derived from junk food and clogs up the arteries. It is important to keep LDL cholesterol levels low to decrease the risk of heart disease. The best way to permanently control your cholesterol is to consistently eat a healthy diet. However, adding garlic, grapefruit and grape juice to your diet can immediately start to reduce bad cholesterol levels and support healthy cholesterol production.

Garlic is a simple remedy for controlling cholesterol.

Garlic is a scientifically proven remedy for lowering LDL cholesterol. A study from Munich University found that adding garlic to people's diets lowered bad cholesterol by an average of 10 percent within a four-month period. While consuming raw garlic will work to control cholesterol, it is not very palatable. To avoid having to eat raw garlic cloves daily, try taking an odorless and tasteless garlic pill supplement like Garolic (see Resources).

Red grapefruit can help lower LDL cholesterol levels within 30 days.

Based on a study conducted by the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School in Jerusalem, daily grapefruit consumption can improve cholesterol levels within 30 days and keep LDL cholesterol under control. Red grapefruit is more effective than white grapefruit for controlling cholesterol. Grapefruit consumption is a simple and delicious home remedy for controlling cholesterol, but check with your doctor before adding grapefruit into your diet. Regular grapefruit consumption may interact poorly with some prescription medications.

Consuming grapes helps increase HDL cholesterol levels within 14 days.

Unlike garlic and grapefruit, which control cholesterol levels by reducing LDL cholesterol, grape juice actually increase the body's production of good HDL cholesterol. Research conducted in 2004 by Jane Freedman, M.D., at Boston University's Medical School, reveals that drinking grape juice for 14 consecutive days raises HDL cholesterol levels significantly. A higher HDL cholesterol level decreases the risk of heart disease and is a strong indicator of overall cardiovascular health.

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

How to Make a Vinegar, Baking Soda, Coke & Mentos Volcano

A volcano is a mountain that contains molten rock below its surface. When these mountains erupt, they spew out both gases and molten rock. Once molten rock is no longer beneath the surface of the mountain, it is called lava. Volcanoes erupt when the Earth's plates shift, in a process called plate tectonics. If you want to simulate a volcanic eruption you can do it by using a vinegar, baking soda, Coke and Mentos recipe that will erupt impressively out of an easy-to-make model volcano.

Instructions

Turn the Coke bottle upside down in the center of your poster board. Trace the circumference of the bottle top, then cut out the circle with scissors. Cut a straight line from the middle of one side of the circle, to the edge of the poster board.

Shape the poster board into a cone. Staple the cone together along the seam. Trim the bottom of the poster board until it is the exact height of the Coke bottle so it can fit over the bottle during your experiment.

Pour out about 1/3 of the Coke from your bottle, then pour in 2 tbsp. vinegar. Put the lid back on Coke, then put the cone over the top of your Coke bottle. Set the bottle and cone in the center of your sturdy board.

Paint the poster board cone with your acrylic paints until it looks like a mountain. Use brown as your base coat and add color accents with your red and green paints. Let dry.

Set your two 8 1/2-by-11-inch sheets of paper directly on top of each other and roll the sheets into a funnel. Tape the funnel along seam to secure.

Mix your 1/2 pack of Mentos and baking soda in your cup. Take off the bottle top and insert the funnel.

Pour the contents of your cup into the bottle as quickly as possible and yank out the funnel immediately.

No-Sugar Diet Plan

Sugar is an altogether too-common ingredient in foods and beverages. So common, in fact, that upon restricting sugar intake you might be surprised at how many of your former "favorites foods" that you have to give up. This proliferation of sugar in our diets has led to over-dependence, which can only be rectified by avoiding sugar completely. Cutting sugar from your diet will lead to healthier teeth, a better blood sugar profile and substantial weight loss. In doing so, seek to adopt a healthy, balanced diet plan; try the South Beach Diet.

The South Beach Diet was invented cardiologist Dr. Arthur Agatston, M.D., who is the head of the Mount Sinai Cardiac Prevention Center in Miami. The South Beach Diet is an interesting take on a low-carb lifestyle, often being compared with the Atkins Diet. There are a number of differences between the two, however.

One of the major difference is that Atkins is a true "low-carb" diet, whereas the South Beach Diet is merely "carb-restrictive." This means that you will not be counting carbs, per se, but you will have recommendations on which types of carbs you can and cannot eat. Sugar, for example, is completely off the table.

To follow the South Beach Diet, eliminate consumption of all grains, potatoes, pasta and fruit. Plan your meals around lean meats, eggs, seafood, vegetables, and healthy fats like fish and olive oils. This is phase one of the diet and lasts for 14 days. During phase two of the diet, fruit is added, as are whole-grain carbs in limited quantities. The other recommendations remain static. You are to remain in phase two of the diet until you reach your target weight.

Promotional information for the South Beach Diet states that you will lose, on average, between 8 and 13 pounds during the first phase of the diet. This will provide a healthy jumpstart to your weight loss efforts that will keep you motivated and on track throughout the remainder of your dieting.

The South Beach Diet is a livable style of eating that is not overly restrictive, while still allowing you to reach your weight loss goals. By removing sugar and other unhealthy carbs from your diet, you will see rapid weight loss results. Over time, your dependence on these foods will wane, leaving you happier and healthier than ever before.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

A Diploma in Diet & Nutrition

Many people are already self-proclaimed experts in diets like the Atkins diet, grapefruit diet and the Zone diet by virtue of trying them all in hopes of losing weight. Too few people, however, understand the nutritional component of such diets. Pursuing a diploma in diet and nutrition provides knowledge of what the body needs for nourishment and what to eat to satiate these needs.

A diploma in diet and nutrition comes in many forms. A certificate in diet and nutrition is usually accompanied with the completion of a primary degree, like a Bachelor of Science in biology. Depending on the institution, one must take four or five classes pertaining to the subject to earn a certificate.

An associate degree in diet and nutrition requires two years of coursework, with additional classes in general studies such as economics and math. A bachelor's degree requires four years. The American Dietetic Association explains in the book, "Complete Food and Nutrition Guide" that at least a bachelor's degree is required to become a registered dietician, a common career choice for those pursuing credentials in this field.

Many universities offer a master's degree or doctorate in nutrition as well. Some offer online master's programs, including the University of Bridgeport and Saint Joseph College.

Diplomas in diet and nutrition can include specific fields, which later help the recipient of the diploma become a board certified specialist. Specialty fields include pediatric nutrition, sports dietitian, diabetes specialist and gerontological nutrition. Some may pursue their diploma in holistic wellness and nutrition. These diplomas have coursework with an emphasis in homeopathy, herbal studies or alternative diets such as the vegan or raw food diet.

Ample coursework in biology and chemistry is to be expected. Students take advanced coursework in organic chemistry, human biology and physiology. Arizona State University's degree requirements for a bachelor's in nutrition lists coursework such as "Medical Nutrition Therapy," "Human Nutrition Assessment" and "Intro to Planning Therapeutic Diets." In all nutrition classes, how the body metabolizes food is studied. Thus, common topics include how the body processes vitamins, minerals, fats, carbs and other nutrients.

Many students who earn a diploma in diet and nutrition go on to take a series of examinations to become a registered dietitian. However, many other career options are available to those with the proper credentials. Such careers include sports nutritionist, food scientist, health consultant and food service manager.

Eleanor Noss Whitney and Francis Sienkiewicz Sizer, authors of the book "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies," warn potential students to avoid "diploma mills" or unaccredited institutions that award certificates based on incomplete coursework. Such schools issue a diploma after the student pays thousands in fees, but require few courses. Check that the school is accredited by the U.S. Department of Education before spending thousands of dollars in fees for a worthless diploma.

Friday, August 2, 2013

Dogs Foods That Cause Oxalate Crystals

3 Day Diet Meal Plan

One of the most well-known fad diets for short-term results is the 3-Day Diet plan. Though countless people have tried this to achieve sudden weight loss, this weight usually returns quickly. Yet, this three-day, low calorie diet plan, which results primarily in body water loss and a little fat loss, remains extremely popular.

For breakfast on day one, you can have some black tea or coffee with artificial sweetener, half a grapefruit or fruit juice and one toast slice with one tbsp. of peanut butter. For the midday lunch, you could have a half-cup of tuna fish, one slice of toast and water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweetener. For dinner, you can have three ounces of lean meat of any kind such as chicken or turkey, a cupful each of carrots, green beans, apple and vanilla ice cream. Wash the meal down with water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners.

For the second day's breakfast, you can have one slice off toast with one egg done in any style, one cup of water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners and one medium banana. For lunch that day, you could have one cupful of tuna fish or cottage cheese, five saltine crackers and water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners. Dinner on day two could be a couple of hot dogs or beef franks, one cup of broccoli or cabbage with a half-cup each of carrots and vanilla ice cream and a banana. Wash this meal down with water or black coffee or tea with artificial sweeteners.

Begin the final day of your diet with five saltine crackers, one ounce or slice of cheddar cheese, a medium apple and water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners. For lunch, you can have one hard-boiled egg with a piece of toast and water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners. For dinner, you can have a cup of tuna along with a cup each of carrots, cauliflower and melon, a half-cup of vanilla ice cream and water or black tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners.

During these three days of the diet, you can add as much lemon as you like to your food. You can also use a little salt and pepper, mustard and cooking spray to make your food tasty. Cottage cheese and tuna, and cauliflower and broccoli could be eaten in place of each other. You could also have an orange in place of grapefruit, yogurt in place of ice cream, beans in place of carrots and toast in place of five crackers.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

What Kind of Weight Loss Programs Does Medicaid Cover?

Medicaid is for many the sole source of health care coverage. Knowing the details of coverage can be tricky for anybody; some benefits are federally mandated while others are up to the states. Weight loss programs fall into the latter category, and each individual seeking coverage needs to know where to look for information.

Obesity and excessive weight are key contributors to a wide variety of health problems. However, individuals whose only access to medical care is through the Medicaid program might have difficulty finding information on weight loss or management programs through their coverage. Though federally funded, Medicaid programs are administered by the various states. Some aspects of the Medicaid program are uniform by federal law, but the states are allowed to determine their own policies with regard to Medicaid-covered weight loss programs.

One such example would be weight loss and management through the use of prescription medications. According to Families USA, "Weight-loss drugs are one of nine classes of drugs that Medicaid programs can exclude from coverage under federal law." This does not necessarily mean they are not covered; in many cases, states have included coverage for these medications. The state by state inconsistencies, however, make it difficult for patients in need of these drugs to know whether or not they have coverage for them. Medicareinteractive.org provides a listing of all the states' policies regarding coverage for these medications, and such an overview can be very helpful for individuals.

Another common procedure for weight loss is gastric bypass surgery. Families USA points out that "federal Medicaid law does not mention coverage of gastric bypass surgery specifically." This can lead to some confusion, and typically coverage for this procedure is reviewed on a case by case basis. Families USA goes on to state, "Individual cases about Medicaid coverage of gastric bypass surgery generally involve proving that for a particular patient, the surgery is medically necessary and not cosmetic." If gastric bypass surgery is necessary for you, the best approach for obtaining coverage is to communicate with your doctor as you submit your claim to Medicaid. "States may not arbitrarily deny or reduce" medically necessary procedures, according to Families USA, so if your health care provider deems it necessary then you should be able to obtain coverage.

As you seek out coverage for weight loss programs and procedures through Medicaid, remember that each state administers its own plan. There will be guidelines specific to your location that need to be considered. "To find out more specific coverage rules," Medicareinteractive.org recommends, "contact your state Medicaid office." The site's Medicaid Coordination with Part D (by State) chart provides a brief overview of state coverages as well as links to local contacts for each state. With just a little research and initiative, you should be able to quickly discover what resources are available to you for weight loss under Medicaid in your state.

Pages

Saturday, August 31, 2013

How Carbohydrates Work

Beverages and Other Drinks

Oils

Dairy

Salads

Proteins

Friday, August 30, 2013

What to Eat

Fruit, Vegetable and Whole Grains

Protein and Dairy

Water

Additional Tips

Prerequisites

Coursework

Continuing Education

Career Outlook

Thursday, August 29, 2013

General Feeding

Purina Diet

Ingredients

Uses

Benefits

Additional Health Benefits

Significance

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

The Atkins Diet

The South Beach Diet

The GI Diet

Instructions

Monday, August 26, 2013

Planning

Food

Exercise

Results

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Meat

Cheese is a nutritious food.

Sauces, Spreads and Seasonings

Drinks

Neurological Effects

Kidney Problems and Gout

Heart Disease

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Immune Booster

Anti-Depressant

Clears Toxins

Disinfectant

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Instructions

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Wellness Programs

Weight Watchers

Jenny Craig

MyUHC.com

Other Options

Sunday, August 18, 2013

Cauliflower Rice

Spaghetti Squash

Lean Meats

Grilled Vegetables

Fresh Salad

Low-Carb Tortilla

Combine Foods

Come Up With a Plan

Watch Your Calories

Add Exercise

Do Not Overdo It

Water

Food

Exercise/Weights

Saturday, August 17, 2013

Mentos Mystery

Time Frame

Features

Considerations

Benefits

Warning

Friday, August 16, 2013