Safflower Oil & Weight Loss

Safflower oil is a polyunsaturated fat. It is derived from safflower seeds. Consuming safflower oil daily can help increase metabolism and decrease body fat percentages.

Misconceptions of Safflower Oil

Many people assume that fatty oils cause weight gain. However, unsaturated oils such as safflower oil are associated with weight loss and other health benefits such as decreased risk of heart disease and lower glucose levels.

Types of Safflower OIl

Safflower oil can be consumed as a supplement or in its liquid form. In a study conducted by The Ohio State University, subjects were given eight supplements per day divided into doses of two pills prior to each meal and prior to bedtime. The equivalent dose of liquid oil would be about 1 2/3 tsp.

Effects of Safflower OIl

Safflower oil has been shown in recent studies to decrease body fat and lower body weight. During Ohio State University's 16-week study, subjects lost 3.2 percent of their body fat on average.

Theory of Weight Loss with Safflower Oil

The Ohio State University researchers speculate that safflower oil consumption increases the production of the adiponectin hormone, which in turn may have triggered faster and more efficient fat burning.

Other Benefits of Safflower OIl

Safflower oil may also improve fasting glucose levels in diabetics and may also help to decrease the risk of heart disease.

List of Foods on a Soft Diet

A soft food diet is recommended by doctors for many reasons, such as following mouth surgery or other dental procedures, after gastric bypass, or in preparation for medical tests. A soft diet isn't the same as a bland diet, which is more much restrictive, but it does involve certain "do's" and "don'ts" when selecting foods you can safely eat. A soft food diet includes soft-textured foods or those softened by cooking, mashing or chopping, which are easy to easy to chew and swallow.

Breads, Cereals, Grains

Safe soft foods in the grains group include cooked cereals such as oatmeal, grits, cream of wheat or easily softened cold cereals such as Rice Krispies and Corn Flakes. Also acceptable are soft breads and muffins, pancakes, french toast with the crusts cut off and pasta.

Eggs and Dairy

All eggs are acceptable except for raw and fried, with scrambled and soft-boiled considered the best. All dairy products, including chocolate milk, ice cream and yogurt, are included.

Fruits and Vegetables

Juices, both fruit and vegetable, are the best. Other fruits and vegetables that qualify as soft foods include those cooked and canned without seeds or skins. The only fresh vegetables allowed on a soft diet are avocados and tomatoes and potatoes without the skins. Acceptable fresh fruits include bananas, pureed berries put through a strainer to remove skins and seeds, and melon, if tolerated.

Soups, Sauces and Condiments

Creamed soups are good soft diet foods, as is any other pureed or blended soup like chicken noodle. Broths are also well tolerated. For sauces, choose those that are pureed or well-blended. For spices and condiments, use salt, pepper, all finely chopped or ground leaf herbs and mild spices and ketchup. For sweeteners, use sugar, honey, jelly, smooth preserves, syrup and jellied cranberry sauce.

Meats and Entrees

Tender cooked meats like beef, veal, lamb or liver that are baked, broiled, creamed, roasted or stewed are fine, as is stewed pork. Chicken and turkey are allowed on a soft diet if they're not fried. Cooked, fresh or frozen fish without bones such as tuna, salmon or white fishes are included, as is canned tuna. Other good protein sources include tofu and well-cooked legumes with soft skins, such as baked beans or lentils.

Desserts

Desserts can include ice cream, ices, sherbet and sorbet; pudding or custard; soft candy without nuts, seeds or hard pieces or plain chocolate bars; and butter cookies.

A Sample Soft-Food Diet Daily Menu

Breakfast: scrambled eggs with grated melted cheese, cantaloupe

Lunch: tuna salad made with tuna, mayonnaise and some spices, applesauce

Supper: poached salmon, mashed or baked skinless sweet potato

Dessert: pudding with whipped cream

HGH Cycles for Beginners

Human growth hormone, or HGH, is a naturally secreted hormone that causes most of our body's growth through puberty and beyond. HGH production drops off after puberty, reducing the impact that physical activity has on the body. HGH is popular in both the weight training and therapeutic rehabilitation worlds for its ability to increase muscle size. HGH injections contain actual HGH, whereas pills and powders contain nutrient precursors to help your body produce HGH. HGH cycles are required to minimize negative side effects while you acquire the full benefits of treatment.

Talk to Your Doctor

Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss how HGH treatment can benefit you. Discuss your goals for a cycle of HGH treatment. Obtain a prescription from your doctor for injectable HGH. Your doctor will prescribe a proper dosage amount to follow. HGH for rehabilitative purposes is often prescribed at 0.5 IU to 4 IU per day; those seeking the performance-enhancing effects of HGH are prescribed daily dosages of 4 IU to 6 IU. Common HGH cycles are 50 days of treatment followed by 20 to 40 days off of treatment.

Talk with your doctor about the side effects of HGH use. Too much HGH supplementation, or improper use, can result in breast enlargement, liver damage, fluid retention and joint pain.

Dosage Schedule

Follow the dosage schedule laid out by your doctor. Daily dosages of HGH will often be broken up into multiple injections. Normal dosage times are in the morning and a half hour after a workout. HGH has a half-life of 20 minutes, and peak blood levels are reached between two and six hours after injection. Administering HGH after a workout or physical therapy increases the physical gains from both types of exercise.

Resisting Dependency

Allow your pituitary gland to function without HGH injections for a period of time. The length of this wait period will be determined as part of your cycle. Although long-term HGH supplementation of safe dosage levels isn't extremely harmful, it may negatively impact the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is responsible for most of the body's natural HGH production. HGH injections require the pituitary gland to do no work, weakening that organ's functioning. Abstain from HGH injections for the entire wait period to promote proper pituitary functioning. Prolonged consistent HGH treatment also increases the risk of side effects.

Price

Set aside the requisite amount of money needed to pay for an entire HGH cycle before beginning your cycle. Daily dosages of intravenous HGH can cost from $75 to $150 dollars. Monthly, this cost can be in excess of $2,000. You can only get the full benefits from a course of HGH injections if you can commit to a full dosage cycle.

Recommended Foods for the Blood Type Diet

The basic goals of the "blood type diet" are to jump start the metabolism, keep it going strong, and eat food compatible with your blood type. Foods are broken down by blood types and listed in categories, including beneficial foods, "neutral" food and foods that should be avoided.

Underlying Principles

Joseph Christiano, a naturopathic doctor and author of "Blood Types, Body Types and You," asserts that you should eat a diet that complements your blood type. According to Dr. Christiano, this is because each blood type has specific characteristics that allow a person to eat, digest and assimilate his food in a specific way, and that not following this eating plan can cause food molecules to glue themselves to the digestive system, causing health problems.

Blood Type A

People with the blood type A are characterized by having very thick blood coursing through their veins. These people should eat foods that can help prevent heart disease and cancer.

Meats like cod, monkfish, rainbow trout, tilapia and whitefish are all acceptable as protein sources for the type A person. Dairy choices include soy milk and soy cheeses.

Vegetable protein sources include black-eyed peas, green beans and pinto beans. Pumpkin seeds and red peanuts can also be eaten as additional sources of protein.

Vegetables such as artichokes, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, carrots, okra, onions and spinach are also recommended. Fruits---including apricots, blackberries, cherries, cranberries and pineapples---can be eaten in moderation.

Blood Type B

People with a B blood type do not have to avoid eating all dairy products. They can eat most meats in moderation, and are able to enjoy a larger variety of foods than the blood type A person.

Lamb, venison, veal, caviar, mahi mahi, scallops and tilapia are all listed as beneficial foods for this blood type and are good sources of protein. Macadamia nuts can also be eaten. Eggs, feta cheese and cottage cheese are also allowed.

The best vegetables for the B blood type include avocado, broccoli, beets, cabbage, cauliflower, eggplant and yams. Fruits such as bananas, cranberries, figs, grapes and papaya are all good food choices.

Blood Type AB

A person with the blood type AB should follow a similar diet to both A and B. If this is your blood type, combine the food lists for types A and B. However, eat less protein than is required by the B blood type, and glean the majority of it from plant sources.

Blood Type O

Blood type O people are considered the "meat eaters" of society. They have thinner blood and stronger immune systems, so they have less dietary restrictions than other blood types.

The blood type O diet can include meats like beef, buffalo, lamb, veal, venison, cod, halibut, rainbow trout, red snapper and tilapia as major sources of protein. Mozzarella cheese and non-fat sour cream are also allowed. However, type O blood types should not eat pasta.

Vegetable protein should come from pinto beans and black-eyed peas. Other vegetables that are allowed include artichokes, avocados, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, spinach and cabbage. You can also eat figs, plums and prunes.

How to Soothe Sunburn with Apple Cider Vinegar

Sometimes the quest for the perfect suntan can go awry. It happens to the best of faithful sun worshippers -- too much time soaking up the rays and not enough sunscreen. If you happen to over do it at the beach or at poolside and your skin feels like its burning up, try using apple cider vinegar (ACV) to relieve some of the pain and discomfort. When applied over the affected areas, apple cider vinegar draws the heat out of sunburned skin. The vinegar smell isnt very nice, but your skin will feel and look much better.

Instructions

1

Mix 1 to 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar with 1 to 2 cups of cold water. Using either a washcloth or strips of gauze, soak the cloth in the vinegar and water and then wrap the cloth around the sunburned areas. Repeat wrapping your skin with the vinegar soaked cloth as needed. Apply an aloe vera skin moisturizer to counteract the drying nature of vinegar.

2

Use the same ingredients and ratio as above. Pour the apple-cider-vinegar-and-water mixture into a spray bottle. Spray it directly on to sunburned skin. Let skin air dry and repeat as needed. Apply an aloe vera skin moisturizer.

3

Add 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to your bath water. Bathtub water should not be hot, but rather cool. Soak in the bath for 30 minutes. Dry off by dabbing, not wiping, your skin with a soft cotton towel. Apply an aloe vera skin moisturizer.

Low Carbohydrate Food Chart

Many people who are dieting try to avoid eating foods with a high carbohydrate content. If you are one of those people, read on to find out which foods are low in carbohydrates. The foods you want to stay away from are high carb foods such as rice and pasta.

Meat and Fish

Just about all beef, pork, lamb and veal have zero carbohydrates and are high in protein, and fish has no carbohydrates and a lot of protein.

Nuts and Seeds

Except for roasted chestnuts from Europe, which have a very high carbohydrate content, nuts and seeds have a low carbohydrate content and are a fairly good source of protein.

Dairy

Dairy foods such as milk, eggs and cheese are low in carbohydrates and are a good source of protein.

Fruits

Fruits such as melons, coconuts and avocados have a low carbohydrate content.

Butter and Margarine

Butter and margarine have a zero carbohydrate content, though a high fat content.

Oil

Cooking and salad oils have no carbohydrates, though they do have a high fat content.

Vinegar

Balsamic, white and red wine vinegar are all very low in carbohydrate content.

What Is Liquid Chlorophyll Used for?

Responsible for the green color in plants, chlorophyll is to plants what blood plasma is to human beings. Easily digestible, liquid chlorophyll is rich in calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, selenium, zinc and potassium and also contains vitamins A, C and E. Considered a whole food, liquid chlorophyll purifies the blood and removes toxins from the digestive system.

Blood Purification

According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," liquid chlorophyll is an essential part of any blood purification therapy. Cleansing toxins from the blood, liquid chlorophyll also adds important nutrients to the blood and builds up red blood cells. Taking liquid chlorophyll even inhibits cellular damage caused by radiation.

Detoxifying Agent

By ridding the intestines of stored toxins, liquid chlorophyll is useful in cleansing and regulating the digestive system. Liquid chlorophyll works by attaching itself to the impurity and releasing them into bodily fluids. Drinking about 2 liters of water per day will aid in the detoxification process, which is said to take about two weeks.

Immune System Support

Since chlorophyll contains antioxidants, it has properties which protect cells from damage and promotes healing. Liquid chlorophyll is said to strengthen the immune system and may be especially helpful for those who are undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer. The high calcium content in liquid chlorophyll makes it especially beneficial for those who have bone disease, hip dysphasia and arthritis.

Fresh Breath

Liquid chlorophyll balances the alkali levels in the stomach and is said to deodorize the entire body. People who struggle with bad breath may benefit by using chlorophyll as a natural breath freshener. Adding 1 tablespoon of liquid chlorophyll to cup of water may be used as a mouthwash or gargle.

Recommended Dosage

Taking liquid chlorophyll on an empty stomach is recommended so that assimilation isn't slowed down by other foods. Overdosing on liquid chlorophyll isn't possible since it is essentially a vegetable. Nevertheless, adding 1 to 3 tablespoons of liquid chlorophyll to one glass of water or juice is recommended.

Natural Chlorophyll Sources

Liquid chlorophyll, which is sold in health food stores, is either extracted from alfalfa, algae, spirulina, wheatgrass or barley grass. Known as "green drinks," fresh juices which are made from a combination of these sources cleanse the body of pollutants, provide quick energy and have an overall rejuvenating effect on the body.

Diet for Hypothyroid Disease

Hypothyroidism is characterized by the thyroid gland's inability to produce enough of the thyroid hormone. This hormone regulates metabolism and body temperature. Digestive symptoms can include constipation, fatigue and weight gain. Diets for hypothyroidism can help support synthetic thyroid replacements like Synthroid to be properly absorbed by the body and help alleviate symptoms. Find out what foods you can eat to help.

Foods to Avoid

The thyroid gland needs iodine to be able to function. Certain foods bind iodine and hinder the positive effects of medication. When taking your thyroid medication, be consistent by taking it at the same time every day. Avoid these foods for at least several hours before and after taking your medication. According to Mayo Clinic at www.mayoclinic.com, eating too much dietary fiber can interfere with thyroid replacement medication. Fibrous foods include cabbage, broccoli, buckwheat, kale, oats, rye and legumes. In addition, calcium will not allow for the medication to be properly absorbed. These foods include milk, cheese and calcium-enriched juices. Also, refrain from taking any supplements with calcium or aluminum because they can interfere with the medication.

Fatty Foods

The University of Maryland Medical Center at www.umm.edu suggests cutting out unhealthy fat like red meat and processed foods. Replace beef with low-fat proteins like fish, chicken and turkey. Trans fatty foods can elevate cholesterol, which worsens the symptoms of high cholesterol and weight gain found in people with hypothyroidism. Incorporate more fresh vegetables, whole grains and fruits. Eat foods packed with antioxidants like blueberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, squash and cherries. Those with hypothyroidism are oftentimes depleted of vitamins and nutrients. Get the nutrition you need by adding foods packed with vitamins in your diet.

Iodine Rich Foods

The University of Michigan at www.med.umich.edu reports that hypothyroidism can be caused by lack of iodine in the diet. Though rare, it is possible to not eat enough iodine for your thyroid to function. The university recommends for adult women and men to get 100 micrograms of iodine daily. Also, help your underproductive thyroid glands by adding more iodine in your diet. The majority of people get their iodine from eating table salt. Table salt is high in iodine, yet can also elevate blood pressure and cause hypertension . Eat foods with iodine like cod fish, haddock, eggs, seaweed, kelp and sea salt. Sushi is a great choice for those trying to get more iodine. The nori seaweed used in sushi rolls is full of iodine. Choose sushi rolls made with brown rice. Experiment at home by making your own rolls with foods important to your hypothyroid diet.

What Foods Can You Eat on a No Carb Diet?

Instead of carbohydrates, when you are on a no-carb diet, fat will supply your daily need for energy and protein. Be prepared for your body to go into a state of ketosis, as it will need to convert fat into ketone bodies and use them maintain energy levels. Glucose sugar will help run the rest of your system, which you will get from the conversion of protein through a process called gluconeogenesis.

Meats

No-carb diets are loaded with meats. Eat fish, chicken, beef, and pork. Eggs and sausage in the morning are fine--just do not accompany them with toast or orange juice. Order a chicken breast sandwich without the bread at your local fast food restaurant. Eat the hamburger and throw away the bun. Make sure you remove the skin from the chicken and other meats.

Steaks and roast beef can be delicious and great sources of protein at dinner. For variety, try some exotic meats like veal, lamb, pheasant, quail, duck, goose and venison. Turkey can be enjoyed anytime during the year, not just on Thanksgiving.

Fish

To break away from the red meats, alternate with fish and seafood. Salmon, shrimp, crab and lobster are good choices. Fish fillets such as trout, halibut, cod and herring will help you acquire a distinct taste for each. Scallops, mussels, sardines and oysters can round out your seafood dishes.

Milk and Dairy

Do not hold back on the milk and eggs in the morning. Low-fat milk is better. The eggs can be eaten whole, or separating the whites from the yokes to reduce fat intake. Eat your eggs fried, boiled or poached according to your own tastes. Enjoy all kinds of cheese as a snack or as a melted topping over your meat dishes. Parmesan, cheddar or cream cheese can add flavor and needed fat intake to your no-carb diet.

Why Is My Dog Vomiting Green Liquid?

According to the Canine Manual of Infovet.com, vomiting is a common, classic symptom of gastrointestinal troubles in dogs. It may be caused by many things: a blockage of intestines, an empty stomach, ingestion of harmful substances, or harmful organisms such as viruses, worms and bacteria. It can be difficult and distressing to diagnose the cause of your dog's trouble, but it is well worth the effort.

Causes

Several things could be the cause of your dog vomiting strangely colored liquid. The least harmful cause is an empty stomach. If your dog heaves, but has nothing in his stomach, he will expel green bile, his stomach's natural digestive juices. Another possibility is your dog may have ingested something indigestible or irritating to her stomach. When the vomit is green, your dog may have eaten grass or, more distressingly, antifreeze. In addition, your dog may be suffering from an illness caused by bacteria, a virus, a parasite or even a disease like diabetes or cancer.

Prevention

To prevent your dog from vomiting green liquid, make sure your dog is well-fed and hydrated. Keep antifreeze out of reach, even when bottled. According to Animalemergency.com, dogs may sometimes bite through anti-freeze caps and bottles just to get to the sweet-smelling liquid. Keep your dog away from spoiled foods, the garbage, or other potentially contaminated substances. This will lower her chances of catching a virus, being infected by harmful bacteria, or becoming the host of a pesky parasite. To further protect your dog, make she is vaccinated against deadly viruses, such as parvo and distemper.

Diagnosis

It is very important to pay close attention to the manner in which your dog vomits; this may may clue you in to the seriousness and nature of his condition. If your pet regurgitates his food, this suggests a blockage in the upper digestive tract. If your dog is vomiting continuously, this usually implies simple stomach irritation. When your dog vomits after a coughing or hacking fit, this may mean your dog has respiratory problems.

Chronic vomiting, vomiting over a long period of time and accompanied by weight loss, poor appetite, and a general lack of energy my connote kidney and liver disease, diabetes, parasite infections or even cancer. In the case of projectile vomiting, your dog my suffer from a blockage in the digestive tract. In some cases, the green liquid may be mixed with fresh blood; this means your dog is bleeding somewhere inside his digestive system. In the rare occasion that your dog vomits stool, this should be treated as an absolute emergency, for your dog's lower intestines may be completely blocked. Also, if your dog vomiting in conjunction with neurological symptoms such as convulsions, the cause may be neurological and not gastrointestinal.

Home Treatment

Until you can get your dog to a vet, put your pet on bland diet of chicken or lamb with white rice or baby food. This should settle her stomach. You can also try Pepcid AC--famotidine--an over-the-counter (OTC) drug for humans that can be found in most any drugstore.

If you suspect your dog has ingested something harmful or irritating, these situations may call for forcing your dog to vomit with a one to three teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide. This may save your dog's life, as you are encouraging his body to expel the harmful substance, but some poisons do more damage when vomited, so this solution should be approached with caution.

Veterinarian Treatment

Your veterinarian will undergo a more involved inspection or your dog, and he will need both a stool sample and a few answers from you. Your veterinarian will want to know when your dog started vomiting, how often he vomits, the nature of the vomiting and how the relationship of the vomiting to your dog's meal times.

The stool sample will be tested for parasites, viruses, and bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobater. She will also check the stool for blood. She will check your dog's mental condition, his temperature and she will check for any objects lodged in your dog's throat. She will check your dog's organs to rule out inflammation, abnormal growth, intestinal tears or excessive gas.

Cleanse & Detox Diets

Detox and cleansing diets usually restrict your intake to fruit, vegetables and liquids. The purpose of these diets is to cleanse and slightly speed the functioning of the kidneys, lymph system and liver. Before embarking on such a restrictive diet, you should consult your doctor. Some health professionals do not believe that cleanses or detox diets are beneficial.

Master Cleanse

The Master Cleanse diet was developed by Stanley Burroughs. Burroughs wrote a book titled "The Master Cleanse - With Special Needs and Problems." The diet consists of drinking a concoction of water, organic lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper, also known as "lemonade." Some people do this for four to five days, while others stay on the diet for as long as two weeks. The cleanse claims to relieve pressure in nerves and arteries and flush waste from the body.

Raw Food Diet

A raw food diet generally consists of fresh fruits, vegetables, juices, nuts, seeds and grains. Some raw food dieters incorporate high quality fish into their diet, but many stick to a strictly vegan diet. The raw food diet encourages the consumption of fresh foods based on the belief that once a fruit or vegetable is cooked, the enzymes it contains are broken down, resulting in a loss of nutritional value.

Clean, Green, and Lean

Walter Crinnion, a naturopathic doctor, wrote the book "Clean, Green, and Lean: Get Rid of the Toxins That Make You Fat." A specialist in environmental medicine, Crinnion explains in his book that the program will assist dieters in losing weight by flushing toxins from the body. Organic foods are encouraged. A two-week meal plan accompanies the book. A large amount of dietary supplements are recommended, including foods such as salmon and organic fruits and vegetables.

Fruit Flush

The Fruit Flush Plan was developed by a clinical nutritionist named Jay Robb, in a 48-page book. This is a three-day plan. The diet starts with an intake of five whey protein shakes consumed throughout the day. A green salad with avocado and lean protein is recommended for dinner on all three nights. Fruit is consumed in lieu of protein drinks on the second and third days of the diet.

How to Eat for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you have irritable bowel syndrome, you will quickly discover that certain foods exacerbate your symptoms. The pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation that this disorder causes is not only painful, but it can be extremely disruptive to your life. Fortunately, the symptoms of IBS can be controlled largely through controlling your diet. For this reason, it is important to know how to eat for irritable bowel syndrome.

Instructions

1

Stop eating foods that trigger or exacerbate diarrhea. This means eliminating caffeine, milk, alcohol, sugary foods and fatty foods. You also need to avoid foods that make people gassy, like beans, cabbage and broccoli.

2

Eliminate artificial sweeteners from your diet. Many artificial sweeteners can cause intestinal distress. The two sweeteners that most commonly cause problems are sorbitol and xylitol.

3

Drink plenty of water. Everybody needs water, but to control the symptoms of IBS, it is essential that your primary beverage is water. Try to drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily.

4

Increase your soluble fiber intake. This means eating more rice, pasta, oatmeal, soy, carrots, potatoes, apples, beets, bananas, sweet potatoes and squash, among other foods that are rich in soluble fiber.

5

Take a daily soluble fiber supplement. Start with the lowest dose and adjust it until it helps control your symptoms.

What Is a Renal Diet?

A renal diet consists of limiting one's intake of potassium, fluid, protein, phosphorus and salt. This diet was created for individuals with various stages of kidney disease, in order to limit the progression and symptoms of the disease.

Significance

Kidneys flush toxins in the body, and keep the body's sodium (salt), potassium and fluid balanced. When they are not working properly, any additional salt or fluid could put stress on the kidneys.

Function

The renal diet controls the amounts of sodium, fluid, salt, potassium and protein, so that the correct amounts are consumed to lessen the stress placed on the diseased kidneys.

Time Frame

A renal diet must be followed permanently for those patients who are suffering from kidney disease, even if they receive a kidney transplant.

Considerations

Patients who are following a renal diet must follow a diet that reflects whatever stage of renal failure they are in. Some renal diets may be stricter on limiting the intake of one specific food item over another.

Benefits

Patients who follow strict rental diets will reap the benefits of having good health, while keeping their body strong, and providing proper nutrition.

Avoided Foods in a Soft Diet

Comprised of soft, easily chewed and digested foods, a soft diet is used by those with mouth, throat or digestive issues. The soft foods make swallowing easier and less painful. There are several foods that should be avoided on a soft diet. A basic guideline is that any food that requires excessive chewing should be abstained from.

Raw Fruits and Veggies

Raw veggies, while healthy, are hard to chew.

Raw fruits and veggies are comprised of a significant amount of cellulose. This makes chewing and digesting them difficult because the body cannot digest cellulose. However, you can cook or mash fruits and vegetables in order to make them easier to chew, swallow and digest.

Food with Seeds

Food with seeds, such as raspberries and blackberries, make chewing difficult and painful. Breads or cakes with seeds or nuts in them should be avoided as well.

Dried Food

Any kind of dehydrated food should be avoided. Removing the water from fruits, veggies or meats makes the resulting food very tough, stringy and difficult to chew and digest.

Non-Tender Meat

Steak can be a tough meat.

Any meat that you have to cut with a knife or tear chunks off of needs to be avoided. Meat must be extremely tender and require little chewing in order to be included in a soft diet. Also keep in mind that most meat requires a significant amount of time to digest and process. Minimize meat inclusion. Avoid hot dogs and brats.

Nuts and Peanut Butter

Avoid nuts. They're hard and crunchy and, as such, should be avoided. Peanut butter is extremely thick and difficult to swallow.

Cheese

Cheese is not only difficult to chew, it's extremely difficult to digest.

Chips, Crackers and Cookies

All are full of grains and sugars and many are crunchy. The grains and sugars make digestion difficult and the crunchiness can cause pain while chewing. Also avoid pretzels and crisps.

How to Balance the Androgen Hormone

The human body is a system of delicate balances. Too much to too little of any substance can result in major health issues that lead to a chain reaction of side effects. One of these delicate balances exist between the amounts of androgens, one of which is testosterone, and estrogen. Both men and women have androgen and estrogen in their bodies, as well as the "pregnancy" hormone progesterone, but at very different ratios. Men's bodies contain more androgen and women's bodies contain more estrogen. Keeping a proper balance of the androgen hormone is crucial to proper development and overall health in both men and women.

Instructions

Androgen Levels in Men

1

Restore the proper ratio of androgen to estrogen in the male body that is damaged through aging. Aromatase inhibitors block the excess production of estrogen in men in relation to the amount of androgen in the body. A low ratio of androgen in the male body can result in loss of muscle mass, reduced bone density and decreased libido and potency.

2

Boost androgen in the male body to proper levels by shots or pills of a testosterone derivative such as Proviron. This is not as precise at restoring the balance of androgen and estrogen in men as aromatase inhibitors, but can be effective.

3

Taking the contraceptive shot Depo Provera acts as an androgen inhibitor in men for those who are in a sexual reassignment program or those who desire chemical castration. This reduces the amount of androgen in the body, which raises the proportion of estrogen, basically bringing men back closer to a pre-pubescent hormonal balance.

Androgen Levels in Women

4

Reduce adult hormonal acne, which is caused by the skin's sensitivity to androgen, by upping the levels of progesterone and estrogen in the body. Many formulations of birth control bills can help minimize hormonal acne outbreaks by reducing the androgen level in the body.

5

Prevent breast and endometrial cancer with low doses of androgen. Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone in a woman's body can cause conditions that predispose women toward these cancers. Upping the amount of androgen slightly in the bodies of women with this imbalance can minimize the risks and could actually treat these cancers.

6

Ward off bone density loss among those at risk for osteoporosis by taking low levels of androgens. Androgens act to increase muscle gain and bone density increases in the human body.

How to Lose Weight Eating Yogurt

Yogurt is one of the healthiest of foods when you buy a container that has "Contains Active Yogurt Cultures" written on the outside. Yogurt not only helps to prevent and kill bacteria that causes infections but also helps to ward off cancer. Consuming a low-fat yogurt for breakfast or lunch once or twice a day, together with with a healthy diet and daily exercise, also can help you lose weight.

Instructions

Yogurt, Excercise, Food, Weight Loss

1

Go to the dairy department of the supermarket, and check the labels on the low-fat yogurts. Make sure it contains the words: "Active Yogurt Cultures." This is the important single ingredient that kills bacteria that causes infections and protects against contracting cancer. The fewer artificial additives yogurt contains the healthier it is to eat, and it is the healthiest to consume especially when trying to lose weight.

2




Buy an assortment of any of the low-fat yogurt flavors with the words "Active Yogurt Cultures" and also the flavors that you might enjoy eating for lunch. Plan your menu for each day to include a cup of yogurt for lunch along with a sliced apple (or any fruit), along with a handful of roasted almonds. Include some type of daily exercise, even if it is only walking around the block half a dozen times.

3




Check out the produce department and their in-season fresh fruits. Berries of any type and color are extremely healthy and delicious when eaten mixed into a cup of plain yogurt. Sliced watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew or fresh pineapple makes a great fruit plate with yogurt in the center. Dip the fruits in the yogurt or eat them separately for another yogurt lunch. Canned or frozen fruits will work just as well. Add your daily exercise, and you are well on your way to losing weight.

4




Check the produce department for their fresh salad greens. Include sliced mushrooms, cucumbers, radishes or whatever else you like to put in a salad. Include a few olives, sardines in olive oil or artichokes, and you have another great lunch. Of course, add a container of your favorite yogurt. Exercise by walking, bike riding or becoming a mall walker and walking in the mornings with others.

5




Eat each day a good dinner that includes some sort of meat or fish, potatoes, vegetables and fruit. Before bedtime or about 9 or 10 p.m., have a cup of yogurt with a graham cracker. Keep to this schedule of alternating yogurt flavors for a week while including some form of daily exercise. Weigh yourself at the end of seven days to see how much weight you have lost.

Suggested Diet for Acute Pancreatitis in Humans

Acute pancreatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation or swelling of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that produces a number of substances, such as insulin, that are used in digestion. According to the Mayo Clinic, acute pancreatitis differs from chronic pancreatitis in that attacks emerge without warning and generally only last for several days. Following the onset of an attack, a change in diet is recommended to minimize the severity of symptoms.

Pancreatitis Diet

A low-fat diet is the way to treat pancreatitis, according to information from the University of Maryland Medical Center. This means consuming no more than 20 to 25 percent of your total daily calories from fat and sticking to low-fat options whenever possible. This low-fat approach helps to minimize the pancreas' involvement in the digestive process, relieving strain on the organ and providing it with time to relax and heal. Unless you are actively trying to lose weight, be sure to replace the calories "lost" by reducing your fat intake with other calories from either protein or carbohydrates. Stick to a diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean protein sources such as poultry and seafood.

Recommended Foods

According to the NutraLegacy, eating to reduce the severity of an attack of acute pancreatitis involves consuming foods that are rich in probiotics (helpful bacteria that assist in the digestion of food) and antioxidants (chemicals that prevent cell damage). Focus the carbohydrate portion of your diet around consumption of nutrient-dense foods such as low-fat yogurt, berries, spinach, mushrooms, red wine (a glass or two), and tofu. Aiming to consume at least one or two servings of food from this list per day will help to stifle the intensity of acute pancreatitis.

How to Cure Athlete's Foot with Apple Cider Vinegar - a Natural Cure

Because people are rethinking the toxic chemicals they use to treat simple conditions, many have rediscovered the curative effects that apple cider vinegar has on athlete's foot. Athlete's foot is a persistent, often painful disease of the foot that is caused by the growth of fungus (known as tinea pedis). The fungal infection usually begins as a pink or red rash on between the toes, which spreads to the ball, arch, and eventually the heel of the foot. Here are a few simple steps to cure the condition naturally.

Instructions

1

Wash the foot or feet affected with athlete's foot with gentle soap and warm water.

2

Rinse well, and pat dry.

3

Mix one part water to one part apple cider vinegar in a small basin or large bowl, and soak the feet in it.

4

Soak in the water/apple cider vinegar mix for approximately 20 minutes.

5

Remove feet from soak, and do not rinse.

6

Gently dry thoroughly, taking care to get all moisture from between the toes.

7




Repeat up to twice a day, until the athlete's foot is cured.

GERD Diet: Foods to Avoid

GERD is gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as acid reflux disease. When you eat, your stomach produces acid to break down the food. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) blocks acid from flowing into your esophagus, but some foods negatively affect the LES. The stomach has a lining that protects it from acid damage, but the esophagus does not have this lining. As a result, acid that has made its way past the LES goes to the esophagus. When it reaches the esophagus, it causes a host of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, heartburn and dry coughing. As a chronic condition, it is necessary to have a proper diet that can assist in alleviating symptoms. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, foods that can worsen the symptoms of the disease are fried and fatty food, citrus fruit, chocolate, alcohol, onions and garlic, mint-flavored food and tomato-based foods. Before starting a new diet, it is important that you speak to your physician in order to ensure you are not interfering with other medications you may be taking.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains a high level of serotonin, which relaxes the LES. The esophageal sphincter normally prevents acid from going into the esophagus, but when relaxed, it is unable to function properly. As a result, acid reflux and heartburn occur. Instead of eliminating chocolate altogether, eat small amounts of chocolate and monitor how it affects you afterward. If portion control doesn't cause any flare-ups, chocolate consumption in moderation is fine, but you should be careful when eating foods that contain chocolate as an ingredient.

Fried and Fatty Foods

Fried and fatty foods are too heavy for your stomach to digest, and put too much pressure on your LES. As an alternative to fried foods, grill or broil your foods and request that your meats be grilled when dining out. Switch your side of french fries to a baked potato, or ask to have your french fries baked instead of fried. Saturated fat can be found in most red meats and in the skin of chicken breasts. Eat skinless chicken, lean ground beef, turkey and pork tenderloin as they are low in saturated fat and high in protein. Fish is also a healthy alternative and has high amounts of protein.

Citrus Fruit, Juice and Alcohol

Citrus fruit and fruit drinks are acidic and cause your stomach to produce more acid than usual. Acid production is normal during digestion, but your LES cannot handle the high level of acid from fruits and causes it to flow into your esophagus. Reduce your citrus fruit intake and take vitamin supplements such as Vitamin C to maintain the nutrients you get from fruit. Avoid drinking fruit juice or any cocktails that use fruit juice as it can irritate the LES. Alcohol should also be avoided, as it relaxes the LES and causes acid reflux.

Garlic, Onions and Tomato-Based Foods

Garlic and onions can negatively affect your stomach, and both should be consumed in moderation to reduce symptoms. Salsa, marinades and other tomato-based foods carry a high level of citric and malic acid, and cause upset stomach. Rather than forgo it, you can reduce the acidity level in tomatoes when cooking. Add 1 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda for every 28 ounces of tomato sauce used while cooking.

Medication

If specific food avoidance is not working to reduce the symptoms of GERD, contact your doctor or nutritionist. Your doctor can find out what specific foods cause your GERD flare-ups, and prescribe medication to minimize or eliminate symptoms. Some of the medications include proton pump inhibitors (PPI), which reduce symptoms and are usually taken a half hour before a meal. Some of the side effects from taking PPI include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating. Always follow the prescription dosage instructions to avoid complications.

Slow-Carb Diet Foods

Instead of the "low carb" approached espoused by Atkins and others, some nutritionists instead promote what is called a "slow-carb" diet. This refers to foods that have a low glycemic index, resulting a slower and lesser insulin response. The idea is that these foods leave you feeling full longer, and can help control your appetite as well as avoid the cravings that come from an excess of refined sugars and processed grains.

Fruits and Vegetables

Most fresh fruits and vegetables have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people trying to eat "slow carbs." Whole fruits and vegetables also provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals in addition to their macronutrient content. Some examples of fruits with low glycemic values are cherries, grapefruits, apples, pears, oranges and plums. Good slow-carb vegetables include cooked carrots, asparagus, broccoli, cucumbers, spinach and tomatoes. Most beans also have low glycemic indexes.

Whole Grains

When eating pasta or other grain-based meals, try to eat mostly whole grain products with no added sweeteners. Multigrain and whole-grain breads fit in well with a slow-carb diet, as do other whole grains like rye, barley, wheat and rice. Check online for a given grain's glycemic index to ascertain if it's well-suited to your goals (see Resources).

Foods to Avoid

Keep away from refined sugar, chips, pretzels and most candies. Potatoes, parsnips and rice pasta also have high glycemic indices. Many breakfast cereals have high quantities of sugar, which makes them unsuitable as well.

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. Compared to fasting "cleanse" diets and those that restrict caloric intake, such as the Rice Diet, the Water Diet doesn't limit food consumption, nor does it require exercise. The appeal of the Water Diet is that dieters can purportedly eat what they want--and still lose weight.

Water Diet Creation

The exact origin of the Water Diet is unknown. Some Internet resources trace the diet to an article written and published in 1997 by the Institute for Psychoactive Research in Durham, North Carolina, while Douglas Silver Porter, purportedly a "doctor and a scientist," also lays claim to inventing the Water Diet.

"Science" Behind the Water Diet

The theory behind the Water Diet is that when cold water is ingested, the body burns extra calories to heat the water up to a body temperature of 98.6 degrees F. The colder the water, the harder the body works to warm up the water. Therefore, even more calories would be burned if a dieter drinks very cold water. Additionally, drinking water in between or with meals gives dieters a sense of fullness, making them less likely to want to eat. Because the kidneys must work to process water, it is also said that the Water Diet results in toxins being flushed from the body.

How the Diet Works

On the Water Diet, the dieter drinks 64 oz. of cool or cold water in eight 8-oz. servings over the course of the day, with or without meals, in addition to the dieter's normal fluid intake. The water can be tap water, bottled water or any other kind of water that is safe to drink. The available resources on the Water Diet discourages chewing on ice cubes to make up for water intake. The Water Diet does not alter the types of foods the dieter eats, nor does it limit portion size. Exercise is not a component of the Water Diet.

Pros and Cons of the Water Diet

The advantages of the Water Diet is that it's free--anyone with access to drinking water can try it. The disadvantages is that dieters will find themselves fleeing to the bathroom frequently. While some experts support the notion that drinking water before a meal can help a dieter cut calories, the Water Diet does not address the very necessary components of dieting, such as limiting overall daily calorie intake and incorporating exercise into the dieter's daily routine. As reviewers of the Water Diet point out, the Water Diet is not really a diet--it simply encourages people to drink the amount of water that they should be drinking in the first place.

Effectiveness of the Water Diet

While there has been no scientific research conducted on the efficacy of the Water Diet, two Arizona men in 2008 claimed to lose weight while using the "Before, During and After" strategy, which is markedly similar to the Water Diet. Jeff Schmidt lost 50 lbs. in one year, taking him from a size 40 to a size 34. Blake Silvia claimed to lose 10 lbs. a month for a total weight loss of 70 lbs. without dieting. The two men drank one glass of water before meals, one during and one after eating.

HCG Hormone Therapy During Pregnancy

If you have been trying to get pregnant or have had a few miscarriages your doctor might recommend that you receive a shot of pregnancy hormone hCG. The hormone, called human chorionic gonadotropin, is responsible for keeping the fertilized egg from being shed with a woman's monthly period and helps maintain the embryo in the first trimester of pregnancy. For women who are having difficulty conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy, the hCG shot might keep the growing fetus alive until other hormones take over in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Function

HCG is a naturally occurring hormone that exists in very small quantities in both men and women. During a normal pregnancy levels of hCG rise rapidly following conception and usually double every 48 hours during the first trimester. The hormone keeps the corpus luteum, which stimulates placental growth, active after conception. Some women with low levels of hCG lose their fertilized egg every month with their menstrual cycle, necessitating hormone replacement therapy as a means of helping an early pregnancy along.

Significance

HCG shots are commonly administered to trigger ovulation and may also keep the growing embryo intact. Some doctors will prescribe the hCG shot for the first trimester of a woman's pregnancy if she has a history of first trimester miscarriage. According to BabyCenter obstetricians Joyce and Marshall Gottesfeld, hCG shots are sometimes given during the first trimester of pregnancy in order to stimulate the production of the hormone progesterone. Doctors may prescribe hCG instead of progesterone directly because progesterone is made from synthetic ingredients, although neither has been scientifically proven to prevent miscarriage.

Effects

The hCG shot contains pregnancy hormones and as such is responsible for some early pregnancy symptoms such as tender breasts, nausea and soreness. According to "Getting Pregnant and Fertility Drugs: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin," if the hCG shot is administered around ovulation you have increased odds of becoming pregnant with multiple fetuses. Other symptoms of hCG treatment include fatigue, headache, irritability, abdominal discomfort and water retention. You may also notice soreness at the injection site for the drug.

Considerations

If you have had the hCG shot due to a luteal phase defect or other fertility problem, keep in mind that the injection may cause a false positive pregnancy test result (a pregnancy test that says you are pregnant when you are not). The shot contains the hormone that is measured in home pregnancy tests and in blood tests. According to the website BabyHopes.com, approximately one half of the hCG hormone disappears from your body every 28 hours so the time it will take for a pregnancy test to be accurate will depend on how much of the hormone was taken. Doctors normally recommend waiting 14 days after a 10,000 IU injection, 10 days after a 5,000 IU injection or seven days after a 2,500 IU injection. You also can have your doctor take two quantitative hCG tests for pregnancy after the shot--if the level rises from the first to the second, you are likely pregnant.

Warnings

The hCG shot can increase the risk of blood clots and you should call your doctor immediately if you experience pain, warmth, redness, numbness or a tingling sensation in your arms or legs. Women receiving the hCG shot for the first time may develop a condition called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or OHSS. You should call your doctor if you have symptoms of OHSS such as shortness of breath, severe pelvic pain, swelling of the hands or legs, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting.

How to Choose Low Carb Flour

If you are on a low carbohydrate diet, grains can be a problem. Conventional flours, like wheat flour and corn meal, are usually too high in carbohydrates to be allowed on low carb diets, but that doesn't mean that you can't have breads, crackers or baked desserts. There are lower carbohydrate flours that can satisfy your craving for baked goods, or can even be used as thickening agents in soups and stews. Some of them even have advantages, like cholesterol lowering properties or cancer fighting agents, over the flours you are used to. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1

Learn about the properties of low carb flour. The one thing you have to keep in mind is that flour varieties will behave differently depending on their chemical composition. Some don't rise well, like soy flour. Others brown more rapidly than the flour you are probably used to. Any change in your flour choices will require some trial and error to adapt them to the recipes you enjoy. There are some other advantages to low carbohydrate flours too. Many of them undergo less processing, which makes them higher in fiber and often more naturally nutritious.

2

Evaluate the carbohydrate concentrations in the specialty flours that interest you. The flour isle of your local grocery or natural foods market will have a number of low carbohydrate flour offerings. Common low carb flours would include almond flour, coconut flour, flaxseed flour and soy flour.

3

Calculate the reduction in the overall number of carbohydrates in the flour depending on its fiber content. For example, coconut flour has 16 grams of carbohydrates per cup, with about 11 grams coming from fiber. That makes the net carbohydrate count for a cup of coconut flour around 5 carbs.

4

Consider the health and nutritional benefits the flour has to offer. Most specialty flours have multiple benefits, so read the nutrition labels to see which one will most benefit you from a health perspective.

5

Think about your flour needs. Will you be using flour for baking yeast breads or cookies? Do you want a flour that is a good thickener? Is the low carbohydrate count the most important consideration? Understanding what your needs are before you shop will make it easier to find the flour or flours that will be the best fit.

6

Purchase specialty flours in small amounts. Often flours like soy have a shorter shelf life than wheat flour because they contain fewer preservatives.

7

Remember, taste matters. If you don't like the taste, it probably doesn't matter how low in carbs a flour is. If coconut just isn't your cup of tea, buying it in flour form and baking it into a cookie isn't going to change that.

8

Understand that for the best results, you may have to combine different flours, or use them in combination with traditional wheat flour. Typically coconut flour or flaxseed flour can effectively replace up to 25 percent of the flour in baked recipes, but more will tend to make the results dry and dense. Soy flour can replace about 15 percent of the wheat flour in recipes containing yeast, and up to 25 percent of the flour in other recipes.

How to Make Diet Coke Cake or Cupcakes

The famous Diet Coke cake is a well-loved recipe for dieters. Almost any diet soda will work. Lemon lime or cream sodas work great for yellow and white cakes. Cola, cherry cola and root beer are excellent for chocolate cakes! These cakes come out exceptionally moist and sticky, but delicious. Angel food mix will work, but does not come out as well as plain white cake mix. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1

Obtain your cake mix and diet soda. Use a traditional cake mix that requires eggs, oil, etc. on the box - pudding cake mixes, brownie mixes, and angel food mixes generally do not work. Choose a 'light' colored soda for white and yellow cake, and a 'dark' soda for chocolate or devil's food cake.

2

Combine the box of cake mix with the can of diet soda in a medium mixing bowl. If desired, add sprinkles or miniature chocolate candies to make confetti cake - yum! You can color a light colored cake with a bit of colored sugar or food coloring as well. Mix well to make your cake batter.

3

You may now follow the baking directions on the box - this will make two layers, or twenty-four cupcakes. Otherwise, use the following baking guidelines:
24 cupcakes: 18-21 minutes at 350 degrees
2 9-inch layers: 28-31 minutes at 350 degrees
2 8-inch layers: 33-36 minutes at 350 degrees
1 13x9 pan: 32-35 minutes at 350 degrees

Make sure to switch the positions of the pans in the oven, halfway through baking!

4

Allow to cool in pans for about a half hour before you frost or try to eat your cake. You can enjoy this cake as is - it's far more moist than normal cake. Topping ideas: fat-free whipped topping, strawberry or fruit preserves, honey, marshmallow fluff

How to Pick Low Carb Fruits

Whether you are on a low carb diet for weight loss or have diabetes, choosing low carb fruits is easy and healthy.

Instructions

Low Carb Fruits

1




First you need to know how much fiber is in fruit because fiber is not digested. So if a food has 20 grams of carbs and 7 grams of fiber, you can subtract the fiber from the carb amount and that will give you net carbs. Net carbs are what you should be counting. In our example the net carbs would be 13 grams. The second important thing to know is that a serving of carbs should equal 15 grams. The food pyramid suggests that an average person eat two to four servings of fruit each day. So that translates into 30 to 60 grams of carbs from fruit, or an average of 45 grams or three servings per day.

2




For our purposes we will consider that those fruits under 10 grams will be low carb, 11-16 will be medium, and 17 grams and up will be high.Low carb fruits - one apricot 3.2, one cup blackberries 6.2, one starfruit 5.6, 10 cherries 9.5, 1/2 white grapefruit 8.6, one kiwi 8.7, one lemon 3.8, one mandarin orange 7.4, one peach 7.8, one plum 6.6, one cup raspberries 6.7, one cup strawberries 9.5, one tangerine is 7.4, one cup watermelon 10.5 Medium carb fruits- one apple 15.8, 1/2 pink grapefruit 11, one cup honeydew 14.1, one nectarine 12, one orange 12.3, one cup papaya 11.2, one pear 15.8, High carb fruits - one banana 23.9, one cup blueberries 17.5, five dates 28.7, two dried figs 20.6, one cup grapes 27.6, one cup mango 25, one cup pineapple 17.6, one cup cooked plantain 44.5, one cup raisons 109.6,

3




Be aware that dried fruits typically have a bit more carbs than raw fresh fruit and canned fruits are sometimes packed in heavy syrup. Some fruits that are sold frozen are sweetened. All these factors can have a dramatic change on the amount of carbs in the fruit. If you're not buying fresh fruit make sure you read the product label for carb information and remember to count the grams of fiber out of the total carb number.

Oatmeal Weight Loss Diet

Good old-fashioned oatmeal is nutritious and inexpensive and may help you lose weight. Oatmeal is high in fiber and may decrease your appetite, and it's an excellent source of carbohydrates for a weight-loss diet.

Health Benefits of Oatmeal

The health benefits of oatmeal are due to the fact that it's made from oats. Whole-oat products are among the finest sources of soluble fiber. That will help keep your cholesterol levels in check and help lower your risk of heart disease. If you want to shed a few pounds, it appears that eating oatmeal may be beneficial as well.

Oatmeal and Weight Loss

It's highly unlikely that any nutritionist would endorse oatmeal as the sole source of nourishment while attempting to lose weight; however, it may be possible to incorporate oatmeal into a diet and help to expedite weight loss.

Because oatmeal is high in soluble fiber, it may promote a feeling of fullness after meals because it stays in the intestines for a longer period of time. As a result, there will be less desire to consume excess calories between meals.

Oatmeal's soluble fiber combined with the fact that it's a low-fat food means that it can be used as a weight-control diet. Oatmeal also slows the nutrients going into your bloodstream.

Another reason oatmeal may promote weight loss is because it's typically eaten for breakfast, and as a general rule, breakfast eaters are more successful at shedding pounds and maintaining a weight-loss diet than those who skip the morning meal.

Incorporating Oatmeal into Your Diet

It's quite easy to add oatmeal to your daily diet. It doesn't have to be limited to breakfast, although hot oatmeal or cold oat bran cereal is a good way to start the day. Ground oatmeal can be added to several recipes for baked foods.

Climate & Food in Italy

As a large country with 20 unique regions, Italy has a lot to offer tourists. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are vineyards, mountains and beaches to explore. Italy is famous for its cuisine, but the classic regional dishes go far beyond pasta and pizza and range from simple, straight-from-the-farm meals to five-star dining experiences. The weather is as varied as the food, with some parts of the country enjoying tropical life while others experience a damp, foggy climate.

Northern Regions

The northern regions of Italy include Piedmont; Valle d'Aosta; Lombardy; Trentino Alto Adige; Friuli Venezia Giulia; Veneto; and Liguria. These regions tend to have a warmer climate with some rainfall, sometimes classified as a "humid subtropical" climate. Raisin wines are popular in Valle d' Aosta, with each region boasting its own specific brands of wine. The cuisine shows hints of Portugal, with dishes that include polenta, rice and peas and dried cod. Other popular dishes are Venetian-style liver, roasted fish and hare, risotto, ossobuco and truffles.

Mid-Northern Regions

The regions of Emilia Romagna, Tuscany, Marche and Umbria lie in the northern part of the Italian peninsula. The climate tends to be more mild near the coasts for these regions, with warm summers and sometimes heavy precipitation. Winters are colder and foggier inland, with occasional snowfall. Meat is a popular part of most dishes, including steaks, sausages and salamis, roasted pig and eel. Umbria is known for its black truffles, and the Chianti wine of Tuscany is world famous.

Mid-Southern Regions

Abruzzo, Molise, and Lazio are the more southern regions in the middle of Italy and include Rome, the country's capital. This area enjoys a more Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Some dishes have a Jewish influence, and stews and pasta dishes are popular, as are lamb, potatoes and artichokes. Meals tend to be hearty and incorporate liberal amounts of olive oil and fat.

Southern Regions

The "boot" regions of Italy include Puglia, Campania, Basilicata, and Calabria. Puglia is the least rainy region in Italy, and in general the area experiences a Mediterranean climate with dry, hot summers and mild winters. Basilicata has a more continental climate and is very dry. Seafood is popular, particularly near the coast, and dishes may include clams, mussels and fish. Calabria is known for its wide variety of eggplant dishes, and vegetables in general are popular throughout this area of Italy.

Island Regions

Sardegna or Sardinia and Sicily are the two island regions of Italy. Sardinia has a mild climate with dry summers and strong winds in the winter. Sicily experiences a lot of sunshine year-round, with mild winters, with colder temperatures inland. Roast pig, lobster and swordfish are popular on the islands, and Sicily is particularly known for its sweets, such as candied fruits and marzipan.

Foods That Help You Lose Weight Fast

While there's no magic food to help you shed pounds, there are many things you can eat to help you raise your metabolism, reduce appetite and accelerate weight loss. Since diet is such an important part of the weight loss journey, even small changes you make can have a big impact on the scale.

High-Fiber Food

Fiber works as a two-way weight loss aid. It provides satiety, so you end up eating less but feeling full, and it also regulates your digestion, preventing you from becoming bloated. High-fiber foods such as green leafy vegetables are especially good because they are low in calories and fat free, so your overall caloric consumption is reduced and your weight loss is quicker and more effective. Fiber also prevents blood sugar spikes, which can lead to cravings. Other high-fiber foods that can help with weight loss include lentils, oatmeal, kale, buckwheat and apples.

Spicy Dishes

Some spices such as ginger, cayenne pepper and cinnamon can raise metabolism, causing the body to burn calories faster and more effectively. Spices not only cause a significant raise in metabolic rate during the actual meal, but their effect lasts for up to 20 minutes after eating. Other condiments that raise metabolism include wasabi powder, coriander and garlic.

Lean Protein

Chicken, turkey, fish and eggs all have something in common: they are pure protein. Because your body works harder to digest protein than anything else, you burn more calories and boost your metabolism by eating proteins. Also, protein are more satisfying than carbs and sugars, so you are less likely to suffer spikes in blood sugar or to have cravings. Certain proteins, such as salmon and sardines, are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which reduces the amount of leptin in your body. Leptin is a hormone that affects metabolism and fat burning: the less you have of it, the more effective your body is at losing weight. Low-fat dairy products and soy are also good sources of protein.

Low-Sugar Fruits

While fruits are natural and a good source of fiber, many contain high levels of sugar and can compromise your weight loss efforts if consumed in excess. Examples of high-sugar fruits include bananas, grapes, pears, pineapple and figs. On the other hand, low-sugar fruits provide lots of hunger-satiating fiber with very low calories. Examples include berries, papaya, plums, apricots, lime and melon.

Good Fats

Vegetable fats are good for lowering DLH cholesterol and providing a feeling of satiety. Since they don't contain cholesterol (as animal fats do), they do not increase the risk of heart disease or cancer. While consuming a large amount of any fats, including vegetable fats, can lead to weight gain, moderate consumption will help control cravings. Fish, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids, will even raise metabolism. Other good fats to consider are flaxseed oil, avocados and peanut oil.

What Do You Eat on a HCG Diet?

Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, a British physician, was the first person to discover the use of HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) for fast weight loss. HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy and controls a woman's metabolic functions during pregnancy. Simeons published a paper in 1954 about his discovery, and it did not gain attention initially, but has continued to grow in popularity, according to the website americanchronicle.com.

Significance

According to Simeon, HCG injections reshape the body as well as create weight loss. You are allowed a very restrictive diet of only 500 calories per day. Mild exercise is recommended for cardiovascular health. According to the website hcgdietinfo.com, many HCG dieters report a loss of 1 to 2 lbs. a day. The diet is recommended for both men and women. Taking HCG shots along with a restrictive diet prevents muscle loss, according to wideworldoffood.com

Breakfast

The original diet recommends that you eat nothing for breakfast. You are allowed coffee or tea with no added sugar or cream. Add stevia or another no-calorie sweetener in your coffee or tea to sweeten. The diet has been modified to allow 1/2 grapefruit or an apple with your breakfast after the first day of the diet.

Lunch

Lunch consists of 100 g of protein to include veal, chicken breast, fresh white fish or seafood. There is no remaining fat nor added fats on any of the protein selections. Choose one vegetable such as asparagus, celery, cucumbers, green salad, spinach or tomatoes. Have one piece of melba toast and one piece of fruit such as an orange, apple, 1/2 grapefruit or several strawberries.

Dinner

The dinner meal is basically the same as lunch. You select from the same meats, fruits and vegetables, and the portions remain the same. It is suggested that you change these selections to have variety. Some of the current varieties of this diet recommend eating only organic produce and protein. Use spices and herbs to enhance your dinner such as basil, thyme, oregano, curry and rosemary.

Controversy

According to Katherine Keratsky, a nutritionist at Mayo Clinic, HCG shots are no better than taking a placebo. Eating healthy, low calorie food and developing viable eating habits is the best way to lose weight. Exercising on a regular basis will add to weight loss and good shape. HCG injections are used today primarily to increase fertility.

How to Lose Weight Fast With A Cereal Diet

Cereal diets are a good way to lose weight fast. Cereal diets are a quick way to lose a few pounds. A cereal diet consists of eating a low calorie, low fat cereal for a few weeks in order to lose weight within weeks. Read below to learn how to lose weight fast with a cereal diet.

Instructions

1

CEREAL DIET MEAL 1:
Eat a bowl of low fat and low calorie cereal such as Special K for breakfast, with 2/3 cup of skim milk or 1% milk.

CEREAL DIET SNACK 1:
If you are hungry in between breakfast and lunch, have a mid-morning snack such as fruit, vegetable or a low fat, low calorie cereal bar.

2

CEREAL DIET MEAL 2:
Eat a bowl of low fat and low calorie cereal for lunch, with 2/3 cup of skim milk or 1% milk. Try a different flavor of cereal so that you don't get tired of eating cereal.

CEREAL DIET SNACK 2:
If you are hungry in between lunch and dinner, have and afternoon snack such as fruit, vegetable or a low fat, low calorie cereal bar. You can also try eating a 100 calorie count snack.

3

CEREAL DIET MEAL 3:
For dinner, have whatever you want (within reasonable limits). Cereals diets will cause you to reduce your normal intake of calories that your body is probably use to getting and because you are consuming less calories, you can afford to eat a regular dinner.

CEREAL DIET SNACK 3:
For an evening snack, try eating fruits, vegetables, low fat and low calorie cereal bars or 100 calorie pack.

4

Follow the cereal diet for two weeks. Try working out or doing some type of exercise in order to lose more weight faster.

How to Follow the Japanese Morning Banana Diet and Lose Weight

A Japanese doctor and his pharmacist wife recently created the banana diet. The diet is all the rage in Japan, and has caused a shortage of bananas in several parts of the country. Here's how you can follow the fad diet and lose weight.

Instructions

1

Eat as many bananas as you want to for breakfast. Eat until you are full, but all you are permitted to eat at this meal is bananas. To drink, you may have a glass of room temperature water. To get the water at the correct temperature, pour a pitcher of water every night, and leave it sitting out on the counter.

2

Eat a healthy, sensible meal for lunch. Although there are no restrictions, if you are trying to lose weight, you shouldn't poison your body with fried, processed foods. Make wise, healthy choices. Again, your beverage must be room temperature water.

3

Have a snack at 3pm. You are permitted to have a sweet snack at this time, and it's the only sweet you're allowed to have all day.

4

Have a healthy dinner, making sure that you've finished your meal before 8PM. No eating is permitted after 8PM on the morning banana diet. Again, wash your meal down with room temperature water.

5

Avoid dairy, sugar, and alcohol while following the morning banana diet for weight loss.

6

Go to bed before midnight each night. A well-rested body and mind are essential for any weight loss plan.

How Much Sugar Does an Apple Have?

The amount of sugar in an apple is an important factor in how flavorful it is. The sugar content of an apple depends on its size and variety. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Size

Apples average about 3 grams of sugar per ounce. According to the California Apple Commission, a medium apple weighing 5.5 oz. has 16 grams of sugar. The Washington Apple Commission states that a large, 8-ounce apple contains 25 grams of sugar.

Variety

Some apple varieties are sweeter than others. Red and Golden Delicious have 11 to 15 percent sugar. Granny Smith apples have 12 to 18 percent sugar. The sugar content of Gala apples is 14 to 16 percent. Fuji is one of the sweetest varieties with 16 to 18 percent sugar.

Carbohydrates

Sugar accounts for about 73 percent of the carbohydrates in an apple. Fiber makes up most of the remaining carbohydrates. A medium apple contains about 5 grams of fiber.

Foods for a Low Protein Diet

People eat low-protein diets for a variety of reasons, including wanting to eat healthfully and also to survive, if there is a diseased or weak organ within the body. The typical American diet consists of 12 percent to 15 percent protein. The suggested low-protein diet should consist of about half of that or even less, at about 4 percent to 8 percent. People on a low-protein diet should also decrease their sodium intake. It's important to consult a physician before starting any diet.

Sandwiches

Meats should still be consumed for some protein, but they should be consumed in smaller quantities. Sandwiches are a great way eat less meat and still be satisfied. Make sure to use thinly sliced meats and fill the sandwich with vegetables like cucumber, celery, lettuce or tomatoes.

Soups

Soups are a great way to eat only small amounts of protein with each meal. For creamy broth, use milk substitutes. You can add rice or pasta, which are filling but have little protein, to make the soup more of a meal. Vietnamese pho is an excellent example of this -- a noodle soup with delectable broth and noodles, but no meat. Soup can be eaten in between bigger meals as well to help stave off hunger.

Fruits and other Sugars

Fruits have virtually no protein and are healthy, so a steady snacking diet of fruits will be a great way to make a low-protein diet less difficult for someone just starting out on it. Try a banana, a handful of grapes or an apple between low-protein meals. Sugary foods like candy also have little protein but eating too much candy to stay on a low-protein diet is sort of like robbing Peter to pay Paul -- it's not making you any healthier.