Pages

Monday, March 31, 2014

The Best Quick Weight Loss Diet

To lose weight extremely fast, you must dramatically reduce the calories you consume so that they are far fewer than the calories exerted. This will force the body to burn stored fat. A popular method of losing weight quickly is to consume a liquid diet of extremely limited calories. There are several companies that make this type of diet, such as Slim-Fast, or you can use a popular detox-style liquid diet, like the Master Cleanse, which provides all needed calories while also flushing you out.

Weight Loss

    Liquid diets are an easy way of meticulously keeping track of calories so you can be sure that you are only getting a designated number. Do not cut too many calories or your body could go into starvation mode, which would slow down your metabolism and make it harder to lose weight. For most people, this number is around 800 calories a day, according to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).

Master Cleanse

    One of the most popular liquid diets is the Master Cleanse. This diet has been around since the 1970s but is still considered a fad by many people. It has gotten a lot of attention, as many celebrities, including Beyonce, have used it for rapid weight loss as well as detoxing.

    The protocol for the Master Cleanse is as follows. Every day of the cleanse you limit your intake to 1,200 calories of a lemonade mixture. The lemonade is made up of lemon juice and maple syrup mixed with a pinch of cayenne pepper in a couple liters of water. This drink is all you will consume over a 10-day period. You also drink a laxative tea or a salt water flush that helps wash out your colon. After 10 days of this combination of diet and flushing, you eliminate all residual waste from your colon. The secondary effect of this diet is that you are also completely cutting out other substances, such as caffeine and alcohol.

Slim-Fast

    Slim-Fast is a diet designed around drinking a nutrition shake at mealtime instead of eating. These shakes are balanced to provide all the fiber, protein, fat, and calories needed daily, as recommended by the FDA. The amount of calories can be tailored to the individual by drinking more or fewer shakes each day. As the diet continues, some of the shakes can be replaced with small meals you make yourself or that are personalized for you by Slim-Fast. The shakes come in a chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and cappuccino flavors to keep you from getting bored with the same thing every day.

How to Lose Weight with the Banana Diet

How to Lose Weight with the Banana Diet

Love bananas and other fresh fruit? The banana diet is a diet from Japan that is extremely popular for being effective as well as far less restrictive than many other types of diets. The banana diet, also known as the morning banana diet, is very popular and since it is safe, it's a fad diet that's not likely to go anywhere.

Instructions

    1

    Prepare an eating plan. The banana diet is very simple in its execution: always eat a breakfast of a banana and water, or several bananas. Eat until you're full, but don't gorge or stuff yourself. Only eat raw, not frozen, and not cooked, bananas.

    2

    If you're a little hungry before lunch, go ahead and eat a small healthy snack, like a rice ball, a bowl of oatmeal, or a fruit bar.

    3

    Eat meals normally. You don't have to go out of the way to eat completely healthy, but if all your meals are four plates at all you can eat buffets, then don't expect a miracle. For the morning banana diet you will want to practice eating until you are 70% full - satisfied but not completely full and definitely not stuffed. No desserts, and eat dinner by 8 pm at the latest, although 6 pm is preferred.

    4

    Drink mostly water. The banana diet says to drink water in sips, and not in large amounts. Don't use it to wash down food. If you need a sweet in the afternoon, you can have one, but don't eat if you're not hungry.

    5

    A major part of the banana diet is to eat slowly and appreciate the taste of the food.

    6

    Always go to bed before midnight to get a full night's rest. Repeat this schedule day after day and watch as the pounds begin to melt away and you start to slim down with the new banana diet!

How to lose weight with Beyonce's cayenne pepper maple syrup diet

The lemonade cayenne pepper maple syrup diet that Beyonce made famous is a short term way to lose weight quickly. The diet is also called Master Cleanse, The Lemonade Diet, the Maple Syrup Diet and similar names. You must follow Beyonce's lemon juice, maple syrup & cayenne pepper diet carefully and not cheat in the middle. This takes discipline, but you may feel the results are well worth it.

Instructions

    1

    Evaluate your need to lose weight in the long term -

    Understand that the lemon detox cayenne pepper maple syrup diet is a short term diet and is best for short term weight loss. It is meant to lose weight very quickly, but not the best option to keep weight off long term.

    2

    Use the Master Cleanse cayenne pepper maple syrup lemonade diet as a way to detox your body, not just lose weight. If you want the detox effects of the diet, then the cayenne pepper lemonade diet may be for you. If you just want to lose weight, then there are other diets that are better options.

    3

    Use the cayenne pepper maple syrup lemon juice diet to rid yourself of cravings for unhealthy and fattening foods. If you can get rid of these cravings, this will indirectly lead to you losing weight (because you will no longer eat the foods that make you gain weight).

    4

    Use the maple syrup cayenne pepper diet for at least 10 days at a time. You may use the diet for up to 40 days or even more, but stick to it for at least 10 days.

    5

    Follow the lemonade diet instructions carefully -

    There are possible side effects such as headaches and stomach pains. Make sure you follow the diet carefully to reduce problems and make sure the diet is safe.

    6

    Stop the diet slowly -

    Go back to solid foods gradually. Don't rush into it as this can be too much of a shock on your system.

Thursday, March 27, 2014

How to Lose Weight Fast for Teens

Lots of teens worry about how they look. There is a lot of pressure on teens today to look fit and healthy, so there's not much time to resolve weight problems when a teen is ready to lose the pounds. Fast weight loss is a matter of mind over matter; those who set their minds to losing weight and becoming healthier at a quick pace can accomplish their goal. There are a number of plans out there for teens to lose weight fast.

Instructions

    1

    Make a plan. Most teens who want to lose weight do so with a combination of diet and exercise. Losing weight is a simple matter of math. Burning more calories than you take in causes you to lose weight. One plan to lose weight fast is to lower the daily caloric intake to about 1,500 calories while doing cardiovascular exercises such as jogging or walking for an hour each day. Another plan focuses less on exercise and more on proper nutrition. This includes walking for only 20 minutes each day and eating foods totaling about 1,500 calories. Consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and include proteins like egg whites or 3 ounces of red meat each day. If your body is used to eating a diet rich in heavy starches, fast food and sugar, eating all natural foods and foods high in proteins will provide you with a quick way to drop pounds.

    2

    Get at least 1 hour of exercise every day, even if it is just taking a long walk. If your school has a weight room, go there after school and work out. Take up a sport if you wish. This is one of the most important factors in weight loss. If you would like to exercise at home, plan your routine. This should include crunches, jogging in place and push-ups. Focus on the areas you want to be slimmer such as the stomach, hips or buttocks. The more you exercise, the more calories you burn. Teens typically have a lot of energy, so exercising a great deal isn't really as difficult as it is for adults.

    3

    Eat healthful foods. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables every day. Consume a healthful lunch at school, such as salads, apples and oranges. Avoid fatty foods such as French fries and pizza. If your school does not offer healthful food, bring your own lunch. To lose weight quickly, limit carbohydrates, like breads and pasta. Limiting your food intake to fresh fruits, vegetables and proteins can give you the energy you need to lose weight without all the bad stuff you don't need during this quick weight loss plan.

    4

    Bring a healthful drink with you to school. This might be juice, lowfat milk, vitamin water or plain water. Do not drink soda or other sugary drinks, as this will inhibit your weight loss. If you wish, bring a health or weight loss drink to help you.

    5

    Plan when you will weigh yourself and weigh yourself regularly. If you are combining cardio exercise with a lower calorie diet, you will begin to lose weight immediately. Don't let the scale be your only guide during your fast weight loss plan, however. Sometimes you gain muscle weight when you exercise.

How to Lose Weight Eating Every 2 Hours

Have you been wondering how to lose weight eating every two hours? You can lose weight while eating and keeping your metabolism high. If you eat often your metabolism will burn more fat and calories. Women can eat 200 calories each meal for 6 meals a day. Men can eat 250 calories each meal for 6 meals per day.

Instructions

    1

    Make a Chart of Your Eating Time

    Make a chart that lists the times that you eat each day. For example:

    8:00am
    10:00am
    12:00pm
    2:00pm
    4:00pm
    6:00pm

    Keep the chart on your refrigerator or with you if you are out of the house during the day. Do not eat after 6:00pm in the evening. You can still drink zero calorie foods such as water or tea.

    2

    Make a List of Healthy Foods to Eat

    Make a list of healthy foods that you can eat at each meal and the number of calories in the food. For example, one handful of raw almonds is 200 calories. One container of yogurt is 140 calories. If you are out during the day, put your food list on the back of your eating time chart for convenience.

    Don't waste your calories on unhealthy foods such as junk food, candy, soda pop, donuts, high fructose corn syrup foods, trans fat foods, fast food and other low nutritional value foods.

    Eat only healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, yogurt, nuts, seeds, garlic and olive oil.

    Knowing how to lose weight eating every 2 hours will help you reduce down a size.

    3

    Follow Your Plan

    Eat every two hours throughout your day and you will not be hungry. Your body will continuously be told that there is plenty of food and it will respond by increasing your metabolism and burning more fat and calories.

    Exercise daily to help keep your metabolism high. 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise per day, three to five days per week is the minimum amount of exercise that anyone should be doing. Add 20 minutes of weight training three days per week.

    Drink plenty of water throughout your day to keep yourself well hydrated and full. Drink eight to twelve glasses of water each day. Do not include other drinks such as coffee, tea and soda as your water intake. Other drinks are very dehydrating and cause you to need more water.

    If you want more information on how to lose weight eating every two hours, please talk to your doctor.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

What Vegetables Burn Fat?

Fat burning vegetables are high in fiber, low in calories and fat. Some vegetables burn fat because of the negative calorie effect (they require more calories to digest than they contain), others work by stimulating a thermogenic effect which is similar to the negative calorie effect as they cause an increase in the metabolic rate based upon the amount of heat generated during the process of digestion (see link in Resources)

Cruciferous Vegetables

    Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower are fat-burning cruciferous vegetables that are high in fiber and have a low caloric content.

Gourds

    Cucumber and squash are among the gourds that can also be included as fat-burning vegetables in a weight loss regimen because of their low caloric value and high fiber content.

Green Leafy Vegetables

    Green leafy vegetables like kale, lettuce and spinach are low in fat and calories and add bulk to the diet through their high fiber content which give a feeling of fullness.

Nightshade Vegetables

    The fat-burning abilities of nightshade vegetables such as eggplant, peppers and tomatoes comes from their high fiber and low caloric content while hot peppers offer fat burning through their thermogenic effect (see link in Resources).

Root Vegetables

    Beets, carrots, celery, onions, radishes and turnips are root vegetables with a high water content that aids in flushing out fats, a high fiber content and low caloric value. Onions and radishes have the additional benefit of a thermogenic effect (see link in Resources).

What Foods Should I Give My Baby to Gain Weight?

What Foods Should I Give My Baby to Gain Weight?

Your baby may be eating solid foods, and at first she was delighted with her new diet. She seemed to be enjoying her rice cereal, peas and carrots. She still eats fairly well, but she's not gaining weight. During her last checkup, perhaps your baby was on the low end of the percentile growth chart. You pediatrician is a bit concerned, and he may recommend a variety of methods to encourage your baby to gain weight.

Normal Rates of Growth

    Feed baby plenty of fruits and veggies, along with cereal.
    Feed baby plenty of fruits and veggies, along with cereal.

    According to KeepKidsHealthy.com, a baby typically grows at a rate of approximately 1 oz. per day from birth to 3 months, then slows to 3/4 oz. from 3 to 6 months, and by late infancy -- 6 to 12 months -- he may be gaining only 1/2 oz. a day. Older children grow even more slowly; for example, toddlers from 1 to 3 years old grow approximately 1/4 oz. a day. Your baby's pediatrician normally won't become concerned, unless your baby's weight falls below the 5th percentile for his age when it is coupled with a declining growth rate. There are various reasons for a baby's failure to thrive, including genetics, nutrition and medical problems. If your baby is not thriving, his pediatrician should give him a thorough examination.

The Full Examination

    Your pediatrician will likely order a full battery of tests.
    Your pediatrician will likely order a full battery of tests.

    During the evaluation, your pediatrician will ask for a detailed history of your child's nutritional intake. She will want to know the exact amounts and types of foods your baby is eating and drinking, including juice. In addition, she will want to know about the presence of any medical symptoms, such as diarrhea, fever or vomiting. Your pediatrician will likely order a complete physical exam, with extensive screening. If no medical symptoms are detected, your pediatrician may just wish to keep a careful watch on your baby's weight gain for the next few months. In extreme cases, she may refer your baby to a pediatric nutritionist or other specialist.

Eating Habits

    Avoid letting your baby have too much juice.
    Avoid letting your baby have too much juice.

    To increase your baby's intake of food, your pediatrician may suggest that you incorporate a variety of procedures to make mealtime easier and less stressful. Many pediatricians tell parents to allow the baby to feed himself as much as possible by offering finger foods and to keep him on a schedule of three meals daily with only two to three snacks. Offer juice or other liquids only after mealtime, and avoid trying to "bribe" or force your baby to eat. A baby who engages in a power struggle with his parents may become resistant to eating. Feed your baby high-calorie snacks with lots of nutrients and don't let him fill up on large amounts of juices or soda. Instead, give him breast milk or formula, which has more nutrition.

Suggestions

    Additionally, your doctor may encourage you to feed your baby a more concentrated formula. For older babies, you can substitute whole milk, half-and-half, evaporated milk or condensed milk. Offer whole-milk milkshakes, made from ice cream or instant breakfast powder blended with milk. Give her pudding made from whole milk; add cheese or peanut butter to veggies. In addition, you can make a high-calorie gelatin by using fruit juice instead of water. Older babies can eat meats and breads with additional butter or sauces.

Doctors' Advice

    In "Parents" magazine, Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson suggests that if your baby is having difficulty gaining weight, you, as the parent, must remember that it's your responsibility to feed him correctly. You must ensure that he learns to eat in a healthy manner by offering a diet that includes veggies, fruits, lean meats and proteins, whole grains, dairy or soy products. In addition, she recommends that you give an underweight baby at least one calorie-dense food at every meal, such as avocado. You can also try cooking with olive oil and fortifying baby's pasta or cereal with 1 tbsp. heavy cream. Dr. Alan Greene adds that you should also give your baby a multivitamin; even very young babies can take a liquid multivitamin as prescribed.

How to Lose Fat on the Keto Diet

How to Lose Fat on the Keto Diet

If you're tired of diets that keep you constantly hungry and sluggish, or diets that consist of such bland foods that you dream about hamburgers, you might want to consider a weight-loss plan that allows you to eat steak on a regular basis. If you want to lose weight, consider a keto, or ketogenic, diet, which is a nutrition plan that involves eating high-fat, low-carbohydrate meals to put the body into a state known as ketosis. The body normally uses carbohydrates to produce glucose, which is burned as the body's primary energy source. You lose fat on a keto diet plan because during ketosis, the liver converts fat into fatty acids and ketones to burn fat as the main energy source. Keto diets are used for weight loss, bodybuilding and treating epilepsy.

Instructions

    1

    Consult your doctor to ensure that a keto diet is a safe weight-loss choice for you and whether you need to lose weight. Ketogenic diets are generally safe for healthy people, but they may not work for everyone. Keto diets can put some individuals at greater risk for vitamin deficiencies, kidney failure, kidney stones and osteoporosis.

    2

    Choose a keto diet plan. Many keto diet plans are available, such as the Atkins and South Beach diets. Research ketogenic diets online and at the library, or talk to a doctor or nutritionist. Ask your doctor to recommend a keto diet, how to diet effectively with a keto diet and find out why he recommends that specific diet.

    3

    Seek the advice of a nutritionist knowledgeable about keto diets to help you plan meals. The expert advice will help you get the correct amount of nutrients through your diet and give you ideas for food variety.

    4

    Select quality meat. Keto diets allow you to eat a large quantity of meat. Quality meat is fresh, hormone-free and has little fat. It also has the right coloring and no odor. Choose a variety of meats, from beef to fish. Eat fish whenever possible; the high content of omega-3 fatty acids benefits your heart.

    5

    Limit the consumption of carbohydrates in your plans to lose weight. Most ketogenic diets use a combination of carbohydrate elimination and low-carbohydrate meal plans. Often, you induce ketosis by eliminating all carbohydrates for about two weeks, then you slowly reintroduce a limited amount of carbohydrates.

    6

    Eliminate sugar from your diet. Even small amounts of sugar can prompt your body to start burning glucose for energy instead of fat. Avoiding sugar will maximize your weight loss.

    7

    Drink plenty of water to encourage weight loss. Water helps your body burn more calories and helps prevent constipation.

    8

    Take vitamin supplements. Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets can deprive you of certain essential vitamins. Use a multivitamin and supplements for calcium and B complex vitamins.

    9

    Exercise regularly. You will lose fat faster on a keto diet if you exercise. Walk around the block, ride a bike, jog in the park or work out at the gym. Schedule some form of exercise into your daily routine to keep your heart healthy and to lose weight.

    10

    Get enough sleep. You may be extra tired during the early stages of ketosis. Sleep seven to eight hours a night for maximum energy. Adequate rest will also assist your weight-loss efforts.

Thursday, March 20, 2014

About the Kaufman Phase 1 Diet

Millions of Americans are already familiar with Doug Kaufman and his interesting dietary theories. But after stripping away some of the more outlandish claims associated with his Phase I Diet, the core remains a solid approach to nutrition that stands to benefit almost everyone. While some of his theories may be somewhat eccentric, his dietary principles are well-proved, and have been implemented in one form or another in countless other programs, including, for example, Atkins and the Caveman diets. But for those who are not well-versed in all things Doug Kaufman, read on and discover more about the Phase I Diet.

Who is Doug Kaufman

    Doug Kaufman is a Vietnam veteran who is probably most familiar to individuals as the host of "Know the Cause," a television show used as a springboard for his nutritional and dieting theories. Kaufman also is an author, having written a book titled "The Germ that Causes Cancer," which is an elaboration of his ideas about proper nutrition.

Theory

    Kaufman says he believes that the root of many maladies is found in fungi, which make their way into the body in large part from many of the carbohydrate-containing foods we regularly consume. He draws from both science and religion to support his view, using some biblical references to argue against the consumption of yeast.

Implementation

    Beyond the fungal propaganda, the Phase 1 Diet looks similar to other low-carbohydrate diets on the market. Kaufman recommends sticking to fruits, vegetables, meats, oils (e.g. olive, flax, and coconut) and nuts, and eliminating all beverages except for water, teas, and some fresh-squeezed juices. Aside from that, he espouses that whenever possible, organic foods should be consumed, and meats should be antibiotic and hormone free.

    The Phase 1 Diet is usually prescribed for a two weeks, after which a Phase II diet is recommended. However, with sufficient willpower, one could remain on the Phase 1 Diet forever.

Expected benefits

    According to Kaufman's theory, the fungus in the body lives off of carbohydrates, so by engaging in a low-carb diet, the fungus eventually will be eliminated. Other expected benefits of a low-carb, natural food diet include reduced body fat, weight loss and an increase in energy. While the first week or so of the diet will be difficult (as the body switches from carb burning to fat burning mode), after the initiation period, the dieter should see an increase in energy so long as he keeps his carb intake low.

Considerations

    Whether you buy into the proposed fungus conspiracy theory, do not let that slight bit of eccentricity scare you away from the Phase I diet. On the whole, this is a healthy, natural way of eating that if followed by a substantial portion of the population)would solve many of our obesity issues. While it is difficult to maintain a low-carbohydrate lifestyle in a world that seemingly revolves around unhealthy food choices, the benefits are proved, there and waiting. All you need to bring to the table is the will.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Bread to Eat to Lose Weight

If you're trying to lose or simply maintain weight, bread likely falls on your list of items to limit or eliminate altogether. Choosing the right bread for your daily diet can lead to fewer calories, more fiber and dropped pounds.

White vs. Whole Grain

    As you learn which breads provide the most benefit, you should also learn which breads may do the most damage. Eating white bread can increase belly fat, as white bread and other refined wheat products are high in carbohydrates and lead to insulin spikes. This can lead to stored fat, which ends up in the belly, or midsection.

    Whole wheat breads, on the other hand, are rich in fiber. A healthy diet calls for 35 grams of fiber per day, and two slices of whole wheat bread can deliver as many as 16 grams. More fiber can lead to greater weight loss, as digestion is slowed and a feeling of fullness is achieved more easily.

What Is Whole Grain?

    A product labeled "whole grain" indicates that the whole grain kernel was used to make the bread, cracker, pasta, etc. Whole grain shouldn't be confused with "100 percent wheat" or "multi-grain," as these products don't necessarily contain the whole grain.

    Whole-grain foods preserve the vitamins, minerals and fiber, while more refined bread is stripped of these nutrients. Three servings of whole grains per day can help lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Ingredient Listings

    A quick glance at a product label may not be enough to determine if the bread is whole grain. Check the list of ingredients. The word "whole" should be part of the first ingredient listed. It may refer to whole wheat, barley, rye, corn, oats, buckwheat or bulgur. Avoid products containing white flour, enriched white flour and wheat flour, as these ingredients are refined and are heavy in starch.

    If you are buying bread from a bakery and ingredients aren't listed or if you're unsure of its content, lift the loaf to determine its relative weight. Healthier bread is heavier because of its whole-grain content.

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

What Is the Lowest Calorie Alcoholic Beverage?

What Is the Lowest Calorie Alcoholic Beverage?

Although Budweiser is the best selling beer in the world, the king in the United States is Bud Light. Its calorie count is certainly part of the reason, but if you're looking for truly low-calorie drinks, there are some that will serve you even better. Add this to my Recipe Box.

    Wine is a lower-calorie alcoholic drink.
    Wine is a lower-calorie alcoholic drink.

Beer

    Bud Light might be the most popular light beer, but its 110 calories per 12 oz. are double the calories in another Anheuser-Busch product, Budweiser Select 55. Some imports and specialty beers can contain even fewer calories.

Wine

    Wine is typically one of the lower-calorie alcoholic drinks. A 4 oz. glass of white zinfandel contains 80 calories. Red wines tend to have slightly more than whites.

Bloody Mary

    Mixing 4 oz. of tomato juice with 1 oz. of vodka, then adding a dash of Tabasco sauce and pepper totals about 90 calories.

Mixed Drinks

    A rum and cola (commonly called a rum and Coke) contains 65 calories, provided you mix 1 oz. of rum with diet cola. In fact, 1 oz. of most distilled alcohols can be mixed with diet cola for similar low calories.

The Enemy

    There are many low-calorie alcoholic drinks to choose from, none of which can claim the title of lowest. But there is one mixed drink that might be the worst: the Long Island iced tea. It contains vodka, tequila, rum, gun, triple sec, sweet and sour mix and cola. An 8 oz. serving can contain nearly 800 calories.

The Best Things to Eat to Lose Weight

While there is no magic way to shed pounds fast, consuming certain foods will help your battle to lose weight. Certain foods help you to feel satisfied longer so that you avoid snacking on junk food. Some of the items dieters may expect to see, while others may seem surprising.

Meat

    Eat red meat, like lean cuts of steak, to help maximize your muscle growth during weight loss. Buy organic if possible and serve a four-ounce serving of grilled sirloin, about the size of a deck of cards, or prepare steak fajitas with sirloin, peppers and onions. Consume omega-3 fatty fish, such as salmon, to increase your sensitivity to insulin, which in turn decreases body fat, especially in the midsection. Prepare salmon just by adding your favorite seasonings, wrapping it in a foil packet and throwing it on the grill.

Dairy and Eggs

    Eating eggs and toast for breakfast helps satisfy hunger pains and will satisfy you longer than just a doughnut or a bagel, because eggs provide protein, according to David Grotto, R.D., author of "101 Foods That Could Save Your Life." If you want to eat a food that combines fat, carbs and protein, try eating some plain yogurt to steady your blood sugar levels and lose fat. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that women should consume full-fat dairy products in order to lose weight and get all the required nutrients.

Fruits and Vegetables

    Munch on blueberries in the summer to get your fill of antioxidants. Besides having the highest antioxidant level, blueberries average about 3.5 grams of fiber per cup, and fiber helps you feel fuller longer. In order to get the most of your blueberries, consider making a parfait with blueberries, plain yogurt and granola. Snack on grapes instead of chips throughout the day. This sweet but crunchy treat averages about 80 calories per cup. Try cooking with kale and spinach, as they are loaded with fiber, iron and calcium, nutrients needed to lose weight. Saut those with broth and seasonings until cooked.

Grains

    Eating oatmeal for breakfast will keep you feeling satisfied because oats digest slowly, even instant oatmeal. Besides breakfast, you can substitute oatmeal for breadcrumbs in recipes such as meatballs. Switch to buckwheat pasta for a filling pasta that combines high fiber with protein. This combination helps you lose fat and inches.

Monday, March 17, 2014

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.

Sunday, March 16, 2014

How to Lose Fat & Not Muscle

Losing weight is the goal of millions of people, young and old, rich and poor, male and female. How do you lose fat, without losing muscle? The tips provided here may help you achieve those goals, and have more muscle in the long run.

Instructions

    1

    Eat a diet low in simple carbohydrates. Sugar, white flour, white rice, baked goods, sweets, pasta, and any other yummy thing made with simple carbohydrates will make losing fat and building muscle near impossible.

    2

    Eat whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, oats, and any other whole grain food. Whole grains don't turn to sugar as fast in your blood stream, and take longer to digest.

    3

    Eat lean protein rather than high fat options. Turkey breast, white meat chicken without the skin, lean beef, and pork, and fish, are all great low fat protein choices. Beans and legumes, eggs, low fat cheese, and fat free milk are also great options.

    4

    Eat protein whenever you eat a carbohydrate. Healthy carbohydrates are fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Eating a protein, such as low fat cheese, or a slice of turkey breast, will make the digestive process take longer. This will enable you to eat less often and be satisfied.

    5

    Exercise!!It can't be stressed enough, EXERCISE builds muscle. When you eat a healthy diet, and exercise, you will be losing fat and building muscle. That is the key, EXERCISE regularly.

    6

    Drink at least six glasses of water a day, This will give your muscles fuel to burn the fat. It will also keep you hydrated in the process.

Saturday, March 15, 2014

Cause of a White Tongue

Cause of a White Tongue

Causes

    There are several conditions that may cause the tongue to appear white, the most common of which is inflammation of the papillae (bumps on the surface of the tongue). Bacteria and white blood cells can be collected by the papillae causing the tongue to appear white and swollen.

    If the tongue is only white in specific areas, the condition may be caused by thrush, which is a form of yeast infection. Candida, which is a form of yeast, is found in limited amounts throughout the body, including the mouth. However, as stated on MedicineNet, "certain illnesses, stress or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing infection."

    White patches on the tongue may also indicate a condition called leukoplakia. This disorder usually affects tobacco users and can be a sign of impending cancer, therefore, medical attention should be seeked immediately if leukoplakia is suspected.

Treatments

    There are treatments that can successfully remove the white appearance of most conditions as well as correct additional symptoms, such as bad breath. Limiting tobacco use and practicing good oral hygiene will reduce or eliminate most white tongue conditions.

    For thrush, include plain yogurt in your daily diet. Avoid high-carbohydrate foods and increase your intake of fiber.

Prevention

    Preventing the condition of "white tongue" is similar to the treatment methods. By implementing good oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco and modifying your diet, you can reduce the likelihood of a white tongue condition.

    Anti-biotic drugs can reduce bacteria, which help minimize the growth of yeast in the body. Use of these drugs should be limited, and the diet should be supplemented with additional fiber and yogurt to hinder the production of yeast. Pro-biotic vitamins may be taken after a course of anti-biotic drugs in order to regulate the yeast population within the body.

How to Lose Weight Fast in Two Months With Exercise

How to Lose Weight Fast in Two Months With Exercise

If you have 25 lbs. or less to lose, you can do it in two months. Any more weight than that is not healthy to lose in such a short amount of time. You will need to be willing to eat right and exercise on a daily basis. You will need to be fully committed, as some days you will find that you are tired and don't want to exercise. You must do it anyway.

Instructions

    1

    Eat right and drink eight glasses of water per day. You can exercise all you want, but if you don't incorporate good eating habits it won't do you any good.

    2

    Create an hourlong exercise routine that you can do in the morning, five to six times a week. If you don't have time in the mornings then you will need to set your alarm clock for an hour earlier than you usually arise. You cannot lose weight without making some changes.

    3

    Begin with five minutes of stretching. Stretch your arms, legs and neck. This will get you ready for your cardio workout.

    4

    Do cardio for 30 minutes. You can use a workout tape or sign up for a class at the gym. You could also just go running for 30 minutes. Cardio is important for burning calories.

    5

    Spend 20 minutes doing strength training. Strength training will build up your muscles while toning up the areas that are losing weight.

    6

    Finish off with another five minutes of stretches. It is important to once again stretch your muscles so that you don't pull one when you go on with the rest of our day.

Friday, March 14, 2014

Low Calorie Food List

Low Calorie Food List

When you are trying to lose or maintain weight, calorie intake will always be a primary consideration. If you consume more calories than your body can use, those unused calories will be stored as body fat. One of the tricks in keeping your total calorie count low is to eat a higher percentage of healthy, low-calorie foods. Your individual daily caloric needs will be determined by factors such as weight, physical activity and metabolism. For example, a 130-pound, moderately active woman will need 1600 to 1700 calories per day.

Vegetables

    Vegetables are naturally low in calories. One lettuce leaf has just one calorie and one spinach leaf has only two. One broccoli floweret has three calories, as does one cauliflower floweret. Vegetables with just four calories include one cherry tomato (which is technically a fruit), a medium-sized baby carrot or two tablespoons of seaweed kelp. One celery stalk has six calories and four asparagus spears have 14. Potatoes are often considered to be high in calories. Yet the potato has less than 100 when baked. It is how the potato is served or prepared that adds calories.

Fresh Fruit

    Many fruits are low in calories, though some fruits, such as the avocado, are higher in calories than other fruits. Fruit juice and dried fruit are more concentrated, thus these tend to be higher in calories. For a lower-calorie fruit, choose fresh strawberries, which are just four calories per berry. A cantaloupe slice, or 1/8 of a melon, is approximately 24 calories. A small apple has about 60 calories and a raw plum has a little more than half that amount.

Lean Proteins

    Lean proteins are relatively low in calories. One ounce of turkey breast, chicken breast (skin removed), fish fillet (such as sole, flounder or cod), shellfish or tuna (canned in water) has about 35 calories. Other lean proteins include salmon, swordfish, lean beef, lamb or low-fat cheese, which are all approximately 55 calories per ounce. Removing the skin and trimming the fat from a serving of meat can transform it from a high- to a low-calorie serving of protein.

Low Fat and Sugar-Free

    Processed snack foods are available that are low in calories. Some snack foods such as sugar-free gelatin, sugar-free pudding or rice cakes have less than 100 calories per serving. Low-calorie snack foods are typically low in fat or sugar-free. Yet, all snack foods marked as "low fat" or "sugar-free" are not necessarily low in calories.

Diets for Heart Patients to Lose Weight Fast

Heart patients have a good reason to lose weight. A majority of men and women who suffer from heart disease are also overweight. Most physicians, preoperation and postoperation, suggest to their patients a weight loss and diet regimen. A lot of patients wish to lose the weight fast, and turn to fad diets to accomplish this feat, even against physicians' orders. Knowing the risks of fad diets, and learning the best way to control your diet, can help you lose weight and keep it off for life.

Fad Diets

    There are several diets out there that promise quick weight loss for those who want to take off a few extra pounds before or after a surgery. Popular diets include the low carb diet, where all high carbohydrate foods are cut out of daily consumption, and the Cabbage Soup Diet, where cabbage soup is the focus of every meal due to its supposed fat-burning qualities, along with other fruits and vegetables. Variations of these diets, as well as supplements and pills designed to cut weight fast are available on the internet and in 'health food' stores.

Fad Diet Issues

    Fad diets may take the weight off fast--many people have had temporary success with the low protein diet, for example--but keeping the weight off after the diet can be a difficult task. Once you have finished your rapid weight loss regime, unless you have a strong will, it is likely that you will return to previous eating habits. If you were overweight before, you may just put the weight back on.

    In studies performed at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a study promoted by the National Academy of Sciences, low protein diets were shown to be inherently dangerous, as excess protein in the blood can create plaque build up in the arteries. If you are a heart patient, that is the last thing you need. Other fad diets may not have these inherent dangers, but they do not promote healthy living.
    Most fad diets suggest the cutting out of certain foods altogether, instead of moderation. The lack of exercise promotion in most fad diets is also a cause of worry among most reputable physicians.

Losing Weight

    The best way to lose wight before or after heart surgery is by eating a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Cutting out high fat food, and those high in sugar content is the best weight to lose weight. If you drink around five regular sodas a day, you are adding an extra 600 to 700 calories to your diet. Cutting down on soda consumption can save you from excess fat. Adding a bit of regular exercise to your daily healthy habit can take weight off as well. Three days of cardiovascular exercise a week has been proven to lower weight in both men and women. Creating a healthy, sustainable lifestyle is key to losing weight and keeping it off.

Thursday, March 13, 2014

How to Use Acai Berry for Weight Loss

How to Use Acai Berry for Weight Loss

I learned of a new superfood called acai berry that is used for weight loss. Since I'm always wary of big weight loss claims made by certain companies, I decided to do some research before I actually jumped on board.

The verdict? I've discovered that acai berry is filled with vitamins and minerals that can aid in weight loss, building muscle and increasing overall energy-and is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, fiber and other plant compounds that can increase your health.

I don't believe that acai Berries hold a "magic key" that will help you lose weight, but it will help make your body healthy. When your body is healthy and well-balanced, it will be easier to reach your perfect weight.

Instructions

    1

    Purchase fresh, frozen or dried acai berries if you can find them. Or you can purchase them in this form online. Since it is a nutrient-rich food, you can cook with it and add it to your favorite recipes. It works well as a cereal topping, in granola, smoothies, yogurt, on low-fat ice cream and in things like muffins and cookies (as long as they're low fat).

    2

    Find acai in the form of a liquid extract. The benefit of taking acai in this form is that the nutrients will be super concentrated. Also, if you live in a climate where acai berries don't grow, this can be a good way to get it as fresh and concentrated as possible.

    3

    Take acai in capsule form. Capsules are good if you want to take acai as easily as possible and still receive the benefits. If you make it a part of your daily vitamin and mineral regimen it will be easier to take it consistently.

How to Follow the Thyroid Diet

How to Follow the Thyroid Diet

The Thyroid Diet, created by Mary Shomon, is based on the idea that many people have weight problems due to undiagnosed thyroid problems. People with hypothyroidism often gain weight because of the condition. By following the Thyroid Diet, you can increase your metabolism and begin dropping excess weight.

Instructions

    1

    Choose the Thyroid Diet that is right for you. The Free-Form Plan, Carb-Sensitive Plan and Calorie-Sensitive Plan are the 3 plans outlined in The Thyroid Diet book.

    2

    Eat 6 small meals each day. Thyroid sufferers should not eat 3 heavy meals a day. Meals should be stretched throughout the day and consist of six mini-meals.

    3

    Control your portion sizes. An important part of the Thyroid Diet is to know how to measure serving sizes. You have to learn how to eyeball food and tell if it is the approved amount.

    4

    Include carbohydrates in your diet. One of the best parts of the Thyroid Diet is that followers are permitted to have complex carbohydrates in their meals. Carbohydrates add to a balanced diet.

    5

    Drink a lot of water. While following the Thyroid Diet, it is recommended that you drink at leas 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

How Long Does it Take to Gain Weight After You Eat?

How Long Does it Take to Gain Weight After You Eat?

The Digestive Process

    The human digestive system is about nine meters long, with many steps along the way that convert the food that you eat into nutrients, fat, muscle, and other important body necessities. The entire process can take between 24 to 72 hours before food is fully converted into waste and that which will stay on as body weight in some way, shape, or form. Before food even enters the body, the cerebral cortex is stimulated by the sight and smell of the food and acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter triggering a release of gastric juices in the stomach. When food enters the mouth, saliva is secreted and mixes with the chewed food by the tongue. The chemical breakdown of the food begins with saliva's enzyme, salivary amylase, as polysaccharides like starch are simplified into more simple sugars. The food next travels through the pharynx and oesophagus, where food is passed down into the stomach. Only around seven seconds elapse while food goes through the esophagus and into the stomach. The gastric phase follows which releases digestive enzymes like gastic acid and pepsin, triggers more hormones and lasts three to four hours. Some small molecules like alcohol become absorbed into the stomach and go directly into the circulatory system. The intestinal phase is divided into two phases. The first takes place in the small intestine where partially digested food fills the duodenum, intestinal gastrin, bile, pancreatic juices, and intestinal enzymes are released, and food is broken down into smaller molecules. Most digestion occurs in the small intestine, and it is here where the greatest amount of time is spent. It is at this point that the fat digestion occurs (discussed in section 2). The large intestine then absorbs water, stores feces, and prepares the waste for body elimination.

Fat Digestion and Storage

    When fat is detected in the small intestine, hormones are secreted that bring forth bile from the gallbladder and lipase from the pancreas. Droplets of fat are mixed with the bile salts and become smaller droplets called micelles. The micelles are broken down even further by the lipases into their constituent parts, fatty acids and glycerol. The glycerol and fatty acids are absorbed by the intestine, reassembled into protein coated chlomicrons and released into the lymphatic system. The chlomicrons eventually enter the bloodstream through the veins, where they last about eight minutes in the bloodstream, as they are broken down into their fatty acids again. The lipases work rapidly if your insulin level is high, and hardly do anything at all if your insulin level is low. The fat cells, liver cells, and muscle cells in your blood then absorb the fatty acids and store them in molecules as fat droplets. Any extra carbohydrates and protein will also be converted into fat by the fat cells, but they are passed over until all fat has been dealt with, since fat is much easier for the fat cells to convert. 24 to 72 hours after the food is ingested, it has been converted to fat or muscle.

Protein and Glycogen

    According to Dr. Michael Colgan of the Colgan Institute of Nutritional Sciences, the body has the ability to build about one ounce of muscle tissue a day. This is because the protein turnover rate in muscle cells takes about 180 days. Similar to fats, proteins are built in the blood stream from their amino acid components. There are thousands of different proteins in the body and the weight gain from the creation of these necessary proteins is limited. Another type of weight gain, known as "water weight," refers to the storage of extra carbohydrates in the body in the form of glycogen. Glycogen is formed in the bloodstream, and it is stored in muscle tissue and in the liver. Glycogen consists of simple sugars and water. Water weight is lost at the beginning of a trendy low carbohydrate diet like Atkins or South Beach because the body is low on sugar and needs to break down the glycogen stores to keep functioning. Since the loss of water weight is temporary, many diets are deceptive in their large initial gains. In order to truly be at a healthy weight, you should not care about gains and losses day to day, or week to week, but over months and years. Choosing a healthy lifestyle and sticking to it for a long time will be better for your body than quick crash diets. While it may take 24 to 72 hours to put on weight from your food, it is more important to monitor your weight on the scale of years, not hours.

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Why Does Seroquel Cause Weight Gain?

If you are taking or considering Seroquel, you may have heard or read about weight gain as a side effect. Though weight gain is not as significant as relief of your disorder, it is a health issue. There are many things to know and consider regarding Seroquel, including other side effects, options to counter the weight gain, and how you should talk with your doctor.

Function

    Seroquel is an antipsychotic drug taken by those who suffer from bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, manic depression and, less frequently, anxiety or eating disorders. Seroquel changes the chemical reactions in your brain and has been found to greatly help those who suffer from these conditions.

Side Effects

    Though many people (up to 6 percent) who take Seroquel report a slight to high weight gain, there are other side effects that commonly occur. These include constipation, indigestion, sleepiness, low blood pressure, dry mouth and dizziness. Although these are not very severe, any side effect should be reported to your doctor immediately so it can be monitored.

Weight Gain

    Weight gain is the most commonly talked about side effect of Seroquel. There are those who only gain a small amount of weight, while others have reported gaining twenty pounds in a month. For some, however, no weight gain was reported at all. It is unclear whether the weight gain is a side effect of the Seroquel, if it is a result of the expectation of gaining weight, or a result of the disorder itself. Though Seroquel manufacturers acknowledge weight gain as a side effect, they cannot pinpoint the reason.

Suggestions

    If weight gain has become a problem for you due to Seroquel treatment, there are measures to keep you as healthy as possible. The most important one, of course, is making sure that the food you eat, even if you increase intake, is as healthy as possible. Eating a heart-healthy diet, avoiding foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol, increasing or beginning a daily exercise regimen, and limiting your alcohol intake are all good suggestions for keeping as healthy as possible while taking Seroquel.

Expert Insight

    No antipsychotic or mental health medication should be taken without a prescription and the advice of a licensed professional. If you are concerned about your weight gain or potential weight gain, talk with your doctor about it. There are options, like switching medications or lowering your dosage, which may help counter it. However, your mental health will probably take precedence, in your psychiatrist's opinion, so the only option you may have is to deal with the weight gain in to maintain a control over your condition.

How to Lose Weight on Dr. Oz's Diet

Dr. Oz's Diet is not so concerned about weighing yourself as a measure of successful weight loss, rather his diet is aimed to decrease your waist size. According to Dr. Oz, decreasing one's waist line is important in improving ones health and in turn, losing weight.

Instructions

    1

    Cut 100 calories off your diet. 100 calories equivalent to a granny smith apple. Dr. Oz guarantees that this small decrease in caloric intake will help you shave off a pound a month or 12 lbs a year!

    2

    Avoid the following ingredients in your food: hydrogenated oil, sugar and high fructose corn syrup, enriched flour, bleached flour.

    3

    Snack on nuts, apples, and carrots when you're feeling hungry. A glass of vegetable juice can also help you with your cravings, instead of over indulging on ice cream and other unhealthy food options.

    4

    Exercise or walk for 30 minutes a day, ever day. This will help you increase your activity level and lose that weight. Don't forget to also start lifting 30 minutes a week, it doesn't need to be weights, it could be a gallon of milk, just start lifting!

Saturday, March 8, 2014

Quickest Weight Loss Diets for Women Over 40

Anyone over 40 might notice a slowdown in their metabolism, the rate at which her body burns calories. To remedy this, eat a balanced diet that includes several small meals and smaller snacks a day. This keeps blood sugar level to ward off binging.
Resist fad diets--follow My Food Pyramid from the USDA to lower weight safely. Add enzymes from fruits and supplements and eat no more than 10 percent saturated fat, 30 percent fat overall, per day.
Exercise daily to burn off more calories.

Keep Blood Sugar Level

    It is easy to diet during the day when you are distracted by work, but nighttime overeating, at dinner or afterward while watching TV, can derail any diet.
    Split your total calories into four or five meals and two smaller snacks. Eat protein at breakfast and choose non- or low-fat milk, yogurt and cheeses.
    By eating small meals and snacks all day until three hours before sleeping, you keep your metabolism stoked, which makes you burn calories more efficiently.

Calculate Your Daily Calories

    Consult reputable sources such as My Food Pyramid from the USDA on how to structure your diet. To lose one pound, you must trim 3,500 calories per week from your diet. You could add 20 to 30 minutes of walking to burn 200 to 300 calories a day, or trim 500 calories per day.
    Do it by eating lean cuts of beef, poultry, fish and legumes, whole grains and whole fruits and vegetables. Eat flax seed, hemp seed and olive oils instead of butter.
    Bake, broil, steam and grill while avoiding frying, which produces heart-congesting trans fats and can increase the risk of hypertension.
    Drink filtered water between meals. Take a good multivitamin with iron, magnesium and calcium.

Consume Enzymes and Probiotics

    Anyone over 30 could experience a downshift in metabolism. The exception are those who exercise: they build lean muscle tissue and burn calories efficiently.
    If you are over 40, you may produce less stomach acid--hydrochloric acid (HCl)--and this can make digestion sluggish, resulting in weight gain. Counteract it by eating fruits high in enzymes such as pineapple or papaya, or buy enzymes made from the same.
    Also consume probiotics to boost beneficial flora in the gut: acidophilus lactobacillus or bifidus. These live cultures are found in yogurts labeled as such and can help increase absorption.

How to Lose Weight Fast With No Products

How to Lose Weight Fast With No Products

Losing weight is on many people's minds. When trying to lose weight fast there are a number of products on the market that claim to help people do that, but these may have undesirable side effects. The good news is that you don't have to rely on products. You can lose weight fast, with the right knowledge.

Instructions

    1

    Cut out all high sugar and high fat foods. These foods will just make you gain weight and feel sluggish.

    2

    Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and practice portion control. To maximize your weight loss potential, double up on green, leafy vegetables and cut your meat to a portion size that is no larger than your fist.

    3

    Supplement one meal a day with a protein shake. When choosing a shake, make sure it is not full of sugar.

    4

    Exercise at least one hour, 6 days a week. When exercising, you should do activities that make your heart beat at least 120 beats a minute. Aerobic activities, such as jogging and biking, will help get your heart pumping. Even if you are tempted to exercise on that seventh day -- don't. Your body needs a day of rest.

    5

    Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Water will help flush fat from your body and hydrate you.

    6

    Look to those around you for support. They will help cheer you on.

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Diet to Lose 60 Pounds Fast

Want to lose 60 pounds in a hurry? Rapid weight loss can be dangerous if not done properly and under a physician's direct supervision. By understanding the safe levels of weight loss and the right way to combine diet and exercise to achieve your goals, you can lose your 60 pounds in six months without risking your health or well-being.

Weight Loss Basics

    The only medically guaranteed way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you take in over a sustained period of time. One pound of body weight equals 3,500 calories, so you need to expend (or not consume) 3,500 calories to lose one pound. You can do this by reducing your caloric intake, engaging in aerobic exercise, or both. Experts suggest that the maximum safe amount of weight to lose is 2.5 pounds per week. To calculate how many calories you can safely lose, use an online calorie calculator to figure out what your daily need is, and then use that to figure out how many calories you can eliminate each day.

Diet

    Forget carbohydrates and fat: The key to weight loss is to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet, making sure that you restrict the total number of calories. Although you can choose to eat fewer carbs or fat grams, the real key is calories. You stand a better chance of losing weight through diet modification than through exercise alone. Eat things that are low in calories but high in fiber to help you feel fuller and more satisfied, and be conscious of everything that passes betwixt your lips: Hidden calories can be the most dangerous.

Exercise

    After you figure out your basic daily calorie needs, you can help create a calorie deficit by exercising. Although exercising will not compensate for a poor diet, exercise improves your cardiovascular health, which is inherently a good thing. Use an exercise calculator to figure out how much your activity is contributing to your weight-loss plan.

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Diet for Diabetic Patients

Diet for Diabetic Patients

Discovering that you have diabetes can be devastating. You have questions about monitoring your blood sugar, medication, and what foods you should eat. Diet for diabetic patients is not much different from a diet for healthy eating. The biggest concern is the carbohydrate intake. Diabetics must count carbohydrates because they turn to sugar or glucose quickly causing high blood sugar levels. Fat intake is important too, because it affects the risk of coronary heart disease. Consult your dietitian for a personalized diet plan.

Carbohydrates

    Carbohydrates turn to sugar or glucose within two hours of ingesting them. Your body uses the sugar for energy. Carbohydrates are measured in grams. One serving of carbohydrates is 15 grams. Some typical one-serving items are a small piece of fruit, one slice of bread, a small potato, one half cup of starchy vegetables or a third of a cup of rice. Your dietitian will determine how many carbohydrates you can have for a meal. The usual amount is 45 to 60 grams, depending upon your sex, age and weight. Most dietitians suggest that you have 15 grams, or one serving, of carbohydrates for a snack. One good choice is three cups of popcorn, which is 15 grams.

Protein

    Protein is essential for body building and body repair. Diabetics, though, must watch the fat content of some proteins. Dietitians suggest that diabetics eat no more than six ounces of protein each day. A piece of meat that is three ounces is equivalent to the size of a deck of cards. One hot dog is one ounce. A small hamburger is three ounces. One ounce of cheese is the size of your thumb. Stick to lean cuts of meat. Limit red meat to eating it once in a day and no more than three times a week. Dairy products contain protein, too. Stick to low-fat or nonfat dairy.

Vegetables and Fruit

    Starchy vegetables such as corn, peas, winter squash and potatoes are counted as carbohydrates, so they must be monitored. Non-starchy vegetables are good choices. One cup of carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, summer squash or green beans contains only five grams of carbohydrates. Fruit is important, but choose whole fruit over juice. One small fruit is equal to one serving of carbohydrates, but one four-ounce glass of juice is also one serving. The fruit is a better choice because it takes longer to digest, slowing down the speed of carbohydrates turning to sugar. Juice is a good choice if you are having a sugar low. For a balanced diet, consider three to five servings of fruit and vegetables each day.

Sunday, March 2, 2014

How to Lose Weight on the Ketogenic Diet

How to Lose Weight on the Ketogenic Diet

A ketogenic diet basically eliminates carbohydrates. Instead, you consume a large amount of fat and a standard amount of protein. This causes your body to release ketones, which are waste products produced by the metabolism of fat. They are essentially an emergency measure by your body -- starved of carbs, it releases ketones from fat, which provide the fuel that the carbs did not. This diet can be done safely, but there are a number of precautions you need to follow.

Instructions

    1

    Consult a physician before you make any changes to your diet. The ketogenic diet is quite dramatic and is not for everyone -- you need to make sure you are able to do it safely.

    2

    Reduce carbohydrates until there are almost none left in your diet. This means no bread, cereals, pasta, potatoes or rice whatsoever, and few vegetables. You also need to remember that sugars break down into carbohydrates in your system. This means no fruit, soda, or candy either. Alcohol is another source of carbohydrates that you need to avoid. The vegetables you do eat should be lower-carb vegetables such as celery; carrots, on the other hand, contain too many carbs for the ketogenic diet.

    3

    Consume 1 g of protein per pound of bodyweight per day. This is the standard amount of protein; the ketogenic diet does not increase or decrease your protein intake.

    4

    Eat fat for the remainder of your diet. Fats should therefore make up around 80 percent of your dietary intake, so you should focus on butter, cream, bacon and other foods that are high in fat but low in other nutrients.

    5

    Take a multivitamin every day. Since you are removing so many carbs from your diet you are also removing a substantial amount of nutrients; a multivitamin is necessary to replace them.

    6

    Exercise every day. This doesn't need to be intense exercise, but you do need to be moving around. This is because exercise uses the ketones up; as the body needs more ketones to function, it burns fat to release them, and you lose weight.