Best Fat Burning Diet Tips : 2014

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Homemade Remedy for Sagging Skin

Age, loss of fat and weakening of the elastin and collagen components of connective tissue can lead to the sagging of skin. It becomes thinner than normal skin and loses its elasticity and smooth texture. While there are thousands of ointments and lotions in the market today that claim to get rid of your wrinkled skin, any homemade remedy for sagging skin can be quite effective as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Castor oil in its pure and odorless state constitutes a potent natural cure for sagging skin. Apply this regularly, no less than twice a day for about a month, on your face, under your eyes, on your throat or massage any other part of the body with wrinkled skin for effective results.

You can also make a concoction out of a quarter cup each of infusion of comfrey and witch hazel and about 10 drops of the essential oil of patchouli (all three available readily in stores). Mix these well and store in a clean air-tight jar or bottle.
Soak some cotton wool in the mixture and apply directly on sagged skin zones.

Another effective homemade treatment for sagging skin involves regular nightly massages with warm coconut oil. Rub any body part with sagging skin firmly but gently. You could try consuming a tablespoon of flaxseed oil, no less than four times a day, for about a month for similar results too.

Take a couple of teaspoons of full-fat yogurt and mix it with half a teaspoon each of lime juice and honey and contents of three vitamin E capsules, available at any pharmacy. Soak some cotton wool in this mixture and rub it into the skin area prone to sagging. Leave undisturbed for no less than 10 minutes before rinsing away with cold water.

You could also make a paste of a teaspoon of turmeric powder and a tablespoon of sugarcane juice. Rub this paste gently into the area that has sagged to get rid of wrinkles and slow down the aging process. Mashed strawberries or a tablespoon of cucumber juice or a mixture of an egg white and a tablespoon of honey are also effective home remedies for wrinkled skin areas.

Take a couple of seedless green grapes and smash it tenderly on the area of your skin that has sagged. Leave it undisturbed for no less than 20 minutes before you wash it away with warm water and let the wetness disappear under normal atmospheric conditions.

Another sagging skin remedy comes in the form of pineapple juice. Take a pineapple core and massage the sagged skin of your face or throat with it. Leave undisturbed for at least a quarter of an hour before washing away gently with warm water. A similar procedure with fresh juice of the green apple can also be beneficial for sagging skin conditions.

Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grained sources of starch in your regular day to day diet plan to get rid of wrinkled, sagged skin and get back your youthful looks. Consume at least eight to 10 glasses of water every day in order to keep your skin well moisturized and hydrated from inside.

Which Allergies Cause Fatigue?

If the immune system doesn't respond correctly to a foreign substance an allergy may occur. There are many different kinds of allergies that cause a variety of symptoms. A constant immune response to allergens may cause fatigue to the point of exhaustion.

Approximately 20 percent of people with allergies have problems sleeping and experience fatigue. Allergies may come from hereditary factors or from the environment. Lifestyle, emotions and diet also can play a role in allergies. Almost anything that is eaten, touched or breathed in can be an allergen. The immune system reacts to protect the body when it interprets a substance as hostile. If a substance is recognized as an allergen, chemicals are released that trigger symptoms. It's important to find the cause of an allergic reaction in order to eliminate an allergy.

Symptoms from allergies can range from mild to severe. Different things affect people daily and can cause symptoms such as rashes, sneezing, watery eyes and itching all over the body. Dangerous symptoms include swelling that interferes with breathing or swallowing, severe pain in the stomach, dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea. There are also hidden allergies such as food preservatives and flavoring agents that can cause symptoms three days after exposure to an allergen. Hidden allergies affect everyone differently, so not all symptoms will be the same. Many allergy symptoms cause fatigue and can mimic flu.

There are four specific groups of allergies. Type 1 is called immediate or anaphylactic reaction allergies. This type includes anaphylaxis reaction and stems from bee allergies, medications and certain foods. Symptoms can be mild but they also can be severe enough to cause anaphylactic shock, which is a sudden life-threatening allergic reaction. Another Type 1 allergy group includes hay fever and certain food allergies. Type 2 refers to cytotoxic allergies and has a cell- destroying reaction. Cytotoxic is a drug allergen that links with a cell membrane and destroys body cells when it interacts with certain antibodies. Type 3 involves something foreign in the blood, such as medication. Type 4 is similar to Type 2 but has a delayed reaction. It has a cell-mediated response instead of an antibody. This is an immune response caused by T cells (white blood cells) attacking unfamiliar antigens.

Many people have negative or allergic reactions to different foods. Things in the environment can cause allergies and result in severe low energy and fatigue. Chemicals from cleansers, laundry detergent, bedding and molds can evoke an allergic reaction, as can large amounts of toxic metals like lead and mercury. Chemical sensitivities to toxic fumes, perfumes, paint, new carpeting, and air fresheners can result in allergic reactions. Mold spores, dust mites and dander from animals are other culprits, and some allergies may even derive from emotional stress.

The following are only some of the ways to treat allergies. Changing to a low-allergen diet is one way to treat food-allergy symptoms. There's also an elimination diet; a certain food is avoided for several weeks, then eaten in large quantities to see if there is a reaction. Windows should be kept shut to avoid pollen allergies. Any area in the house where mold grows should be cleaned often with something specifically meant for getting rid of mold. Pets should be bathed regularly to combat pet-dander allergies. Another way to treat allergies is allergen immunotherapy, which is allergy shots for desensitization.

The Significance of Elevated Carbon Dioxide in Blood

Carbon dioxide levels in the blood are measured with a CO2 test. This test measures bicarbonate, a form of carbon dioxide. Elevated blood levels of carbon dioxide can be caused by several conditions.

Doctors often order a CO2 test together with a test of electrolytes and salts in the blood, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Abnormal blood levels of carbon dioxide can cause imbalances in the bodys electrolytes.

A patients kidneys maintain proper carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream and high CO2 levels may be a sign of a kidney disorder. Breathing disorders and other lung problems can also affect the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in a persons blood.

Elevated blood levels of CO2 can be caused by Cushing's syndrome, a disorder that causes high levels of cortisol in the body.

People with hyperaldosteronism, a condition that causes the adrenal glands to produce excessive amounts of aldosterone, may develop high blood levels of carbon dioxide.

People can develop high levels of carbon dioxide in their blood after significant vomiting.

How to Candida Cleanse

Candida cleanse is necessary if one has the yeast referred to as candida. To cure candida it is necessary to implement a number of strategies. A candida cleanse is necessary when there are higher than normal levels of candida antibodies or antigens in the blood. The medical term is chronic candidiasis or yeast syndrome. Women are more likely than men to experience yeast syndrome. Symptoms usually include fatigue, lack of energy, bloating, thrush, and a long list of other symptoms. A candida cleanse will usually cure candida infection.

Instructions

Eliminate or minimize use of antibiotics to prevent providing a favorable environment for candida yeast.

Many unhealthy diets are causative factors in candida. A candida cleanse requires a healthy diet. Avoid sugar, milk, and foods that contain yeast and/or mold. Yeast thrives on sugar so it's essential to avoid as much sugar as possible.

The lactose in milk promotes the overgrowth of candida and is highly allergenic for many. It also often contains antiobiotics and hormones which can encourage candida so avoid all dairy products. When undertaking a candida cleanse, avoid all sources of dairy.

Alcohol often contains a large amount of yeast, so eliminate alcohol as much as possible, especially during the candida cleanse period.

PrivaTest customizes a supplement to support your liver

A sluggish liver is often a contributing factor to candida overgrowth. Support the liver during a candida cleanse with a lipotropic formula of choline and cysteine or methionine. Look for a customized nutritional supplement for the best quality and results. See resources for recommendations.

A good cleansing and detoxification program always contains a high amount of dietary and supplementary fiber, such as psyllium. Three to five grams of fiber at bedtime will help the body properly cleanse candida and eliminate it. Add at least a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds as well during the candida cleanse and regularly after that time period.

A high quality probiotic is essential for an effective candida cleanse.

Get plenty of rest, sleep, and eliminate stress as much as possible.

Consider taking antiyeast supplements such as caprylic acid, which should be timed release. Garlic is also antifungal, as well as coconut oil and mustard. Adding these ingredients into your candida cleanse will help boost the effectiveness of clearing your body from any lingering yeast overgrowth.

Monday, July 28, 2014

How to Diet With Whey Protein Powder

Whey protein powder is widely used by athletes and body builders. It is a great source of quality protein that is easy to digest and is very low in fat. Protein is essential for dieting. It helps repair the body and is not turned to fat like carbohydrates. More importantly, it makes you feel full and satisfied, so you eat less.

Instructions

Go to a health food or fitness store and buy some whey protein powder. Do not confuse it with soy or any other type of protein powder. They are completely different. The most important consideration in buying whey protein powder is the taste. Buying a huge container of something you hate won't do you much good if you wont eat it. Ask for samples or buy a small container and try it out first.

Mix whey protein powder into shakes. The proportion is one scoop to 8 oz. of liquid. The best tasting way is to mix whey protein with milk. Skim milk is best for dieting since it contains no fat. It also adds calcium and eight more grams of milk protein per cup. If you are really concerned about calories, you can mix whey protein with water. Use a blender or shaker cut to mix your whey protein shakes. Using a spoon will not dissolve the whey protein powder.

Use whey protein powder shakes to replace meals. When you are dieting, you should be eating between five and seven small meals per day instead of three big ones. Drink a whey protein powder shake for two or three of these meals per day. The shakes will fill you up and power you through the day.

Add whey protein powder to other food. It is easy to get bored with whey protein shakes. Mix it up a little to keep it interesting. Make a smoothie and toss in a scoop of whey protein powder. It can also be sprinkled on cereal or added to sauces. Be careful not to add too much. Too much whey protein can overwhelm the taste of dishes.

Exercise a lot. The more you work out and lift weights, the greater your body's demand for protein. When you feed your body whey protein, it heals faster and makes you stronger. When you have more muscle, you burn more calories and lose fat. It is a cycle that starts with exercise and is facilitated by whey protein.

Sunday, July 27, 2014

What Is a Peacock's Diet?

The peacock is a male peafowl, a member of the pheasant family, of which three separate species occur in the wild. The diet of the male peafowl consists of many different items.

Peacocks in their natural settings--nations such as the Congo in Africa, Pakistan, India and Malaysia---will scratch around on the ground searching for all types of foods. The birds will consume such things as insects, small mammals and reptiles, seeds, grain, berries, parts of flowers and greens.

Most peacocks will obtain water during the middle of the day. The birds attempt to avoid the direct heat of the day if possible. Before retiring to their roosts for the night for safety, the peacock will once again go to a water source for a drink, notes the San Diego Zoo.

In captivity, peacocks enjoy a varied diet provided for them, reports the Game Bird and Water Fowl website. Grains, bird mashes and pellets make up a substantial portion of their diet. Other foods include fruits and vegetables, chopped hard-boiled eggs, peanuts, vitamins, mineral supplements, live crickets, mealworms and grit to help the bird digest its meals.

Diet for Gastritis or Acid Reflux

Gastritis is also referred to as gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or GERD. The disease affects the esophagus where it joins the stomach, in an area also known as the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES. Reflux refers to the backflow of the stomach's contents, particularly acids that come back into the esophagus. When the LES is weak certain foods can cause the backflow due to inflammation in the stomach. Diet can be helpful in reducing symptoms of GERD.

The best diet to follow is one that includes the recommended daily allowances of cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy products and meats. Eat small, frequent meals. Consume milk and dairy products only three times per day. These should be fat-free or low-fat to reduce stomach acid. Whole grains and breads made from low-fat products are easy on the stomach. They can be eaten often throughout the day. Some grains, such as saltine crackers, can help to settle the stomach and lower the acid content.

A sample menu for gastritis might include an English muffin with a small pat of butter, 8 ounces of skim milk and 1/2 cup of peaches for breakfast. A good lunch would consist of 4 ounces of water-packed tuna with 2 tablespoons of mayo and cucumber slices on whole-grain bread or a whole-grain pita, and 1 cup of lettuce on the side. For dinner try an oven-baked chicken breast, a small salad with fat-free dressing and steamed carrots. For snacks you could have a cup of peaches, bananas or a rice cake. Be sure to drink plenty of water.

Foods that irritate the stomach will cause inflammation, which will trigger acid production or reflux. Limit any food that could cause heartburn. Avoid greasy, fried foods and foods that are very spicy, as well as alcohol. Stay away from gas-producing edibles such as cooked dried beans, broccoli, cabbage, onions, whole milk and some fruits. Too much gas in the stomach will cause pressure and bloating. Other things that may aggravate your symptoms are orange juice, lemons, lemonade, grapefruit juice, cranberry juice, tomatoes, coffee, tea and other caffeinated or carbonated drinks.

Glucerna Product Information

Glucerna is an enteral nutritional supplement used to replace vital nutrients in users no longer able to produce them naturally. The medication is usually prescribed to users that suffer from one of the following medical problems: AIDS, cancer, kidney problems, liver problems, surgery, and severe trauma. Glucerna is available without a prescription, but t is strongly recommended to be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any type of food or medication before beginning treatment with Glucerna. There have not been studies done on women who are pregnant or breast-feeding while using this medication, so use with extreme caution to ensure there is no harm done to your baby. Extreme caution should also be taken when giving enteral feedings to children as they may not be able to properly digest the feeding once it has been administered.

To prevent the possibility of infection due to bacteria, it is important that Glucerna be handled properly prior to ingestion. The medication should never be administered for more than 12 hours at room temperature before being discarded. If the medication is being administered through a tube, make sure that the enteral feeding is not too thick for the tube being used. It is strongly recommended that all doses be administered in a sterile medical setting to prevent complications.

Side effects include seizures, confusion, dry mouth, decreased urination, irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, tingling and swelling in the extremities, shortness of breath, respiratory problems, weak pulse, nervousness, constipation, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. While these are considered the most common side effects associated with using the medication, they only affect a small number of users.

Always use this medication exactly as it was prescribed to you by your doctor and never in dosages that exceed the recommendations on the label. The medication can be administered either by mouth or through a feeding tube and should always be stored at room temperature and away from sources of moisture. The medication should never be frozen or refrigerated as it can cause the sample to become unsafe for ingestion.

If you experience any of the above side effects, contact your doctor immediately for an adjusted treatment method.

If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

Glucerna is meant for the treatment of the above ailments only and should never be used recreationally.

Friday, July 25, 2014

How to Make Your Own Journal Book

A journal is a very personal item in which you record your hopes, dreams and fears. Go a step further and make even the outside of your journal your very own. The stores are full of beautiful blank books that you can use, but you also can create your own personalized journal.

Instructions

Buy a 3-ring binder or a marbled composition notebook. If you use a 3-ring binder, you can add or remove pages as needed. It also allows flexibility to insert photo pages and memorabilia in sheet protectors.

Personalize the journal by decorating the cover. You can go wild here and decorate the cover to reflect your hopes and ideas for the year to come.

Paste a list of journal topics in the front of the book for those days when you are stuck for something to write about. You can find journal topics all over the place. Look for writing prompts that will help stretch your thoughts, understanding, beliefs and writing talents.

Separate your journal into sections by using dividers or colored tabs. Label these tabs with suitable headings, such as "dreams," "memories," "lists" or "poems."

Protect your journal by laminating the cover with a self-adhesive lamination kit. You can buy these at most office supply or drug stores.

How to Use Atkins Shakes

Consuming meal replacement drinks can help you lose weight, but it takes more than chugging a shake whenever hunger strikes to help you shed pounds. Diet shakes, such as Atkins Advantage Shakes, have the nutrition of a healthy meal but significantly fewer calories and less fat. When combined with exercise and healthy meals, drinking Atkins shakes can help you reach your weight loss goals or maintain your current weight.

Instructions

Determine your daily caloric intake needs by following advice from a medical professional and by using a calorie calculator, such as the one found on Mayo Clinic's website.

Set up a weekly meal plan to ensure that you meet your caloric needs. The makers of Atkins suggest replacing breakfast and lunch with a shake. For more variety in your diet, alternate between shake flavors. Atkins shakes are available in a variety of flavors.

Consume two snacks less than 200 calories each between meals. Examples of healthy snacks include light yogurt, tuna on a few crackers, baked potato chips, granola bar or trail mix. Atkins Advantage Snack Bars are also available.

Plan ahead for dinner to avoid consuming excess calories and fat at a time of day when many people are needing stress-relief. A healthy dinner could be 4 to 5 oz. of lean protein, a medium baked potato or 1/2 cup of cooked rice and 1 cup of cooked vegetables.

Supplement your diet with exercise. Make sure to get at least 200 minutes of exercise a week. If you are a beginner, start with 50 minutes a week and eventually move up to 200 minutes. Choose a type of exercise that you enjoy doing. You will be less likely to stick with an exercise routine you do not enjoy.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

What Is the Safest Antidepressant?

How safe are anti-depressants? Most anti-depressant users, nearly 90%, experience side-effects. The side-effects vary in severity depending on the medication. There is no medication singled out as the safest anti-depressant. Instead, side effects are measured and compared to the medication's effectiveness.

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) requires anti-depressants carry warnings stating the possibility children and adolescents may have increased suicidal thinking with anti-depressant use. No suicides, however, have been linked to anti-depressants. Prozac has been tested and found to be safe, according to the FDA, for children and adolescents.

The University of Pittsburgh studied the effects of selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRI's) on nursing mothers, over a period of 20 years, and found the amount of anti-depressant in breast milk too small for detection. Zoloft and Paxil were found the safest for nursing women. Harvard Medical School studied children exposed to Prozac and other anti-depressants while in utero and found no long term effects on the children. Prozac is considered the safest anti-depressant for pregnant women.

Wellbutrin (Bupropion), in high doses, has caused seizures in a small number of users. Effexor (venlafaxine) users may experience vomiting and high blood pressure. Cymbalta (duloxetine) has lead to liver failure and death in a few rare cases. Zoloft (sertraline) may give users diarrhea. All anti-depressants have side effects. Talk with your doctor to become educated about these possible side effects.

As more anti-depressants become available, the possibility of a lethal combination rises. Co-morbid conditions where patients experience depression and anxiety, for instance, may mean the mixture of two anti-depressants. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of specific mixes.

Anti-depressants have been used for more than 20 years. Prozac was introduced to the public in the early 1980's. Thorough studies and research have yet to show any evidence which suggests anti-depressants are unsafe. Prozac has been studied more than other SSRI's and seems to rank at the top of the safety echelon. Becoming an informed consumer, however, about anti-depressants will always be a necessary part of a patient's recovery.

How to Do the Ketosis Diet

The ketosis diet is actually another term for the 'low carb' diet, but it's often called the ketosis diet because individuals who switch from high carbohydrates to low carbohydrates often go through a process called ketosis. This is when the body releases ketones, which happens when the liver works to turn fats into fatty acids that can be used to provide energy to the body. This is a process that also happens when someone is starving. Below, individuals will learn how to do the ketosis diet.

Instructions

Speak to a Physician.

The first thing any individual should do when considering the ketosis diet is speak to their physician. This diet is not a diet that should be taken lightly. In essence, the ketosis diet tricks the body into thinking that it is starving and forces it to burn stored fat, which helps individuals lose weight. Speak to your doctor about starting the ketosis diet and ask for his or her opinion on whether or not you should go through with it. If given the green light, you can start the diet.

Learn about Low Carbs Foods.

The ketosis diet is based on foods that are very low in carbohydrates and foods that are high in fats. The high fat foods keep the body in a state of ketosis. For those who want to do this diet, it's important to learn which foods are allowed and which ones are not. Individuals are able to eat certain vegetables and fruits, but mainly meat. Lean cuts of meat such as beef, chicken and pork are encouraged. Pastas, breads and other starchy foods are not allowed. To learn more about which foods are allowed and which ones are not, visit Low Carb Foods. See "Resources" for link.

Research the Various Diet Methods.

Before starting the ketosis diet, it's important to research as much as possible. There are specific diet plans available that will help you get started on the ketosis diet and can lay out the daily food plans. This will make it easier to actually stick with the diet. Some of the famous ketosis diets include the South Beach Diet and the Atkins diet. To learn more about the methods of the ketosis diet, visit Quack Watch. See "Resources" for link.

Understand Negative Aspects of the Diet.

The ketosis diet does help some individuals lose weight very quickly. However, for others, there are many different complaints. Since the diet drains the dieter of energy, they often feel terrible while on the diet. Other complaints include bad breath, headache, depression and aches and pains. There are many individuals who believe this diet is not a good idea and should only be performed if medically necessary. This is entirely up to the individual, however, the complains and disadvantages of the ketosis diet should be considered fully before starting.

By using the tips and information above, individuals can learn more about the ketosis diet and determine whether this is the right one for them.

How to Lose Weight with the Master Cleanse Lemonade Diet

The Master Cleanse, also known as the Lemonade Cleanse and Lemonade Diet, is a nutritional cleanse that aims to detoxify the body. One of the perks that attracts many people to The Master Cleanse is the side benefit of natural weight loss.

Instructions

Prepare for The Master Cleanse Lemonade Diet by following the "Ease-In Diet" for three days before you start The Master Cleanse. This part can be skipped if you want to go straight to the cleanse.

Do not eat while you are doing The Master Cleanse. Drink as much water as you need along with the lemonade.

Do a salt water flush each morning on an empty stomache to cleanse and detoxify your body naturally. Add two teaspoons of sea salt (non-iodized) to one liter of water and drink it all.

Drink The Master Cleanse lemonade concoction 6-12 times each day. The lemonade is a combination of 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons Grade B maple syrup, 1/10 teaspoon cayenne pepper and 8 ounces of water. Prepare the drink when you are ready to drink it, rather than making up several glasses ahead of time.

Consume an herbal laxative tea each night before bed to facilitate the cleansing process.

Follow this routine for 4-14 days. The length of time you choose to do the Lemonade Diet depends of you. Some people just do it one day and some do it for 30+ days. Most people follow The Master Cleanse diet for 10-14 days and lose 5-15 pounds.

Transition back to a healthy diet by following the "Ease-Out Diet" for three days after you finish The Master Cleanse. The Ease-Out Diet consists of eating fresh fruits and vegetables and should not be skipped.

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

How to Lose Weight on the Rice Diet

The rice diet is a low sodium and low fat diet that has helped people lose weight for years. Despite the name of the diet, you are not restricted to only rice on the rice diet. You actually have dozens of food options on a daily basis. After following a few steps, you'll be ready to lose weight on the rice diet.

Instructions

Read what the rice diet entails from the Riceway website (see Resources below). The website has an introduction to the rice diet and outlines the different phases of the diet.

Purchase the foods needed for the rice diet. To see what foods you will be eating, go to the Riceway website. Once on the homepage, click on the "Portions" link. Read what constitutes a portion, and pick the food items that interest you. The different categories of food items are dairy, protein, starch, vegetable, fruit, condiments, beverages and fats. You can also shop for the rice diet from the comfort of your own home at the Rice Diet Store website. At the Rice Diet Store website (see Resources below), you can find all the food you will need for the rice diet and have it delivered to your door.

Begin the rice diet by undergoing the detox phase of the rice diet. The detox phase is explained in great detail on the Riceway website. Click on the "Phases" link and you will get a detailed outline of what you are supposed to eat during the detox phase.

Advance to the second stage of the rice diet. While the first stage is usually meant to last only one week, the second step is to be stayed on while you lose the weight you want to lose. You can find what you are allowed to eat each day on the "Phases" link of the Riceway website.

Continue to the third and final stage when you have reached the maintenance portion of your diet. This should be at the point that you have lost all the weight you want to lose. As with phase one and two, you can find information for the third phase on the Riceway website.

How to Use the Grapefruit Diet to Lose Weight

The Grapefruit Diet may not sound like the healthiest diet out there, but if you want to lose weight quickly, it's easy, effective, and safe. Research has shown the grapefruit diet lowers insulin levels, causing dieters to feel full faster and for longer periods of time. Although scientists do not know exactly why, a special ingredient found in grapefruit improves weight loss dramatically. Follow this diet and expect to lose about 10 pounds in 10 days.

Instructions

To begin the Grapefruit Diet, eat a breakfast consisting of 2 eggs, 1 piece of bacon or sausage, and half a grapefruit, or one glass (8 oz.) of grapefruit juice. (The juice may not be sweetened, even with artificial sweeteners for the duration of the diet.)

For lunch, eat a green salad (no starchy vegetables) with red pepper and cucumber, and as much chicken, steak, or fish as you would like. Use any salad dressing that is low in sugar and carbs. Again, add in half of a grapefruit or the 8 oz. of juice.

At dinnertime, you can have unlimited beef, chicken, and fish, and two cups of non-starchy vegetables. Feel free to cook with butter or oil, but use it sparingly. The Grapefruit Diet requires that you have half a grapefruit or 8 oz. glass of grapefruit juice at each meal, so be sure to eat/drink some at every meal, including dinner.

Snack once per day, after dinner (so the grapefruit is in your system.) Stick to a handful of nuts or seeds, or 2 oz. of cheese.

Follow the Grapefruit Diet regimen for 10 days. If you want to lose additional weight, take 2 days off, and then continue for an additional ten days.

Colonoscopy Prep Diet

A colonoscopy is an examination of the colon and small bowel region with a camera mounted on a flexible tube that is passed through the anus. It searches for precancerous polyps and ulcerations and is the most effective tool for screening for cancers and tumors in that area of the body.

Since a colonoscopy is designed to examine the colon and small bowel areas for even the smallest problem, it is important that region be clear of any obstructions or waste. Therefore, doctors typically instruct a patient to clear her system of waste by following a new diet and taking medication for one to three days prior to the procedure.

Following a diet heavy in clear liquids is essential to the success of the procedure, as they are easily absorbed by the body and leave nothing behind in the intestinal tract. Examples of beneficial clear liquids include drinks such as fruit juices, gelatin, clear hard candy, coffee, tea, soft drinks and water, as well as foods such as bouillon dissolved in water and flavored broths.

Doctors typically prescribe some sort of medication to help flush out the system, such as polyethylene glycol, phospho sodas and sodium phosphate, all of which act quickly and help induce bowel movements.

Tablets are helping change colonoscopy preparation, as they can be taken with any clear liquids the patient prefers, which can help her avoid having to endure prepared, and often bad tasting, liquid solutions.

Regardless of whether you choose liquids or pills, make sure you have easy access to a bathroom, as well as privacy, so you will be comfortable when the medicine begins to work. In addition, all fluid intake should stop six hours before the procedure.

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Food & Drinks That Burn Fat

Put simply, burning fat requires no more than a willingness to replace bad habits with good ones, such as by replacing "bad" foods with filling--and when prepared and cooked right--weight-loss promoting foods. Some fat-burning foods and drinks cause you to burn calories not only during workouts, but even when you're not exercising.

Many tea companies promote the health benefits of their products, but the "New York Daily News" explains that a chemical in green tea, epigallocatechin gallate, makes the nervous system and brain run faster. Comparing its effects to caffeine, the report says that ECGC makes your body burn more calories, even while at rest.

Milk, not simply a tasty beverage, also contains plenty of calcium. In his book, "Change One: The Diet and Fitness Plan," John Foreyt writes that receiving too little calcium provokes the release of a hormone known as calcitriol, which instructs the body to store fat rather than burn it. Foreyt says high calcium levels allow calcitriol levels to remain low, letting the body burn fat instead of storing it.

Drink more coffee, and burn more fat. The "New York Daily News" says that the caffeine in coffee causes an increase in heart rate, which boosts the number of calories your body burns daily. Eliminate sugar, whipped cream and other high-calorie add-ins to reap the benefits of this energy-busting drink.

Eating lean meats--chicken, turkey, fish or even lean pork--also helps burn fat, as their high amounts of protein boost metabolism. The "New York Daily News" says that your body has to work harder to digest protein, burning off more calories in the process. Purposely eating a balanced diet containing lean meats can jump-start your mission to burn fat.

Fight fat with fruit, a crucial food for lasting weight loss. Avocados contain monounsaturated fats, known for eliminating blood sugar highs that tell the body to store fat. In a June 2010 article in "Self" magazine, Liz Plosser writes that when blood sugar spikes--signaling the body to store fat around the midsection--monounsaturated fats block that fat storage.

In Plosser's article, registered dietitian Leslie Bonci, director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, says that the antioxidants in blueberries and blackberries improve blood flow and deliver oxygen to muscles. According to Bonci, providing your muscles with the oxygen they need makes exercise feel easier, so you can exercise harder. That more-intense workout will result in more fat being burned.

High-fiber foods--such as oats, beans and many vegetables--provide multiple nutritional benefits. Like blueberries and blackberries, fiber "helps keep blood sugars steady, which cuts cravings and evens out insulin levels," Foreyt says. The "New York Daily News" explains that fiber also boosts metabolism. Controlled blood sugar and a pumped metabolism help you blast away unwanted fat.

How to Lose 27 Pounds in 30 Days on Dr Oz's Miracle Diet

Losing weight following the Dr Oz miracle diet can be a good way to shed those extra pounds. We all know that losing weight is not easy to do but once you find a plan that works for you and your body then there is no limit at the amount of weight that you can lose.

Instructions

First it is important that you learn about the Dr. Oz diet plan so that you get familiar with the way it works. Many people have had success loosing weight using his plan. You can also shed extra unwanted pounds so that you can be more healthy and look great as well.

Next you want to use the super food that he suggest in his diet plan with is the acai berry. It comes from Brazil and has been proven to help people lose weight quickly. You need to make sure that you use the right concentrate of the acai berry so that you get great heath benefits and then you can reach your weight lose goals.

Losing weight can be a struggle as you might be aware of, so finding a plan that will give you success is important. You may have tried other diet plans only to find out they do not work well for you but you should never give up. To be successful with your weight loss goals you need to find a plan that you can stick with until you reach your goals.

Finally remember that it is not always easy to lose weight. Using the Dr. Oz weight lose plan can be a great way to lose weight and feel good about yourself. Many people have been successful on this plan and this is a good way to gauge if a diet plan works well. Take advantage of this great weight lose plan and lose weight today.

Monday, July 21, 2014

About HCG to Lose Weight

HCG stands for human chorionic gonadotropin. It's a hormone that's produced in the placenta and is most commonly found in the urine of pregnant women. Its purpose is to "regulate embryo development and influence the levels of other hormones" during pregnancy, according Dr. David L. Katz in his article "Are HCG Injections a Good Way to Lose Weight?" published on O, The Oprah magazine's website. Many doctors and other weight-loss specialists have suggested that taking HCG injections will curb your appetite and help you stay on a low-calorie diet.

HCG injections were first used as a treatment for obesity by a British physician named Dr. A. T. W. Simeons. Simeons spent years studying obesity and weight loss. He noticed that after giving his patients HCG injections, they lacked the "symptoms one would expect from a patient on a very low-calorie diet. For example, his patients had "no headaches, hunger pains, weakness or irritability." Simeons published a report detailing these findings in 1954.

Simeons observed that, during pregnancy, obese woman were able to lower the amount of calories in their diet without becoming hungry or irritable. Simeons posited that due to the increased levels of HCG produced by the body during pregnancy , a woman's "diencephalic banking capacity seems to be unlimited, and abnormal fixed deposits are never formed," according to Hcgdietinfo.com. For this reason, Simeons believed that taking HCG injections would help to curb a person's appetite.

Despite these claims, HCG injections are probably not the best weight-loss aid. A study conducted in 1990 by the Department of Medical Physiology and Biochemistry at the University of Stellenbosch in Stellenbosch, South Africa found that patients receiving HCG injections did not lose any more weight than those on placebo, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. According to the Mayo Clinic, many other medical researches have studied the effectiveness of HCG injections on weight loss. The results of these studies "weren't promising."

Manipulating the amount of HCG in your body by taking HCG injections could cause health problems. HCG is designed to stimulate the ovaries. It causes the amount of estrogen and progesterone in your body to fluctuate. Supplementing your natural level of HCG with an injection could lead to the formation of ovarian cysts according Dr. Katz in his article on the O, The Oprah magazine's website.

Because of these concerns, you'll probably be better off trying to lose weight the old-fashioned way. The only surefire way to lose weight is to live a healthy lifestyle. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should "take an honest look at your eating habits and daily routine." The best thing to do is to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Safe Diet Plans

Safe diet plans should include items from every food group and provide at least 1,200 calories per day. Diets that forbid entire sections of the food pyramid or suggest very low calorie intake are dangerous and unhealthy, and will not help with long-term weight loss. Avoid any diet plan that makes miraculous claims about fast results, or that includes diet pills or meal replacements. The safest diets include real, healthy foods and focus on portion control and healthy calorie intake.

According to a study done by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health, low-calorie heart-healthy diets can help you lose weight and maintain weight loss, regardless of the proportion of calories that come from fat, carbohydrates or protein. This means you don't have to eliminate carbs or fat to eat a healthy diet, as long as you choose heart-healthy options and keep your total calories low. If you love pasta or beef, don't deprive yourself of your favorite foods. Instead, choose whole grain pastas and small portions of lean beef like tenderloin. Use heart-healthy fats like olive oil to prepare your food, and balance any high-calorie items with low-calorie side dishes.

Instead of focusing your meal on a large steak or heaping serving of pasta, incorporate foods like vegetables, which provide a lot of food for a few calories. Fruits and vegetables have high water and fiber content, which means they fill you up for fewer calories and they keep you feeling full for longer. Fill at least one-third of your plate with fruit or vegetables at every meal, and choose oranges or green peppers for mid-afternoon snacks instead of processed snack foods.

The key to keeping calories in check is portion control. Until you are familiar with proper portion sizes, use measuring cups or specific dishes to help gauge your portions. The USDA defines one serving of pasta as cup, or about one handful. A serving of meat is three oz., or about the size of a deck of cards. Most Americans consume three to four servings of meat and pasta without even realizing it, and those calories add up. Stick to one or two servings of protein and carbohydrates per meal, and fill the rest of your plate with steamed, grilled or fresh veggies.

The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of dietary variety for both nutritional benefit and to keep your diet interesting. Include foods from every food group, and vary the items you choose. Include proteins like fish, chicken, beef, beans and lentils on a rotating basis, and include carbohydrates like pasta, potatoes, brown rice and quinoa. Eat fresh produce when it is ripe and in season, and try new fruits and vegetables; you may discover new healthy foods you didn't even know about.

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Homemade Dog Food for Struvite & PH Balance

Struvite crystals or stones occur in dogs due to a build up of minerals in the urinary tract. These crystals/stones are most often the result of frequent bladder infections or other infections of the urinary tract. Your dog's diet is a contributor to the formation of struvite stones, as foods that lower the urine's pH create the perfect environment for struvites to form. Dogs with this problem require a diet that creates a higher urinary pH level, and you can make that special dog food right in your own kitchen.

Instructions

Gather your materials and ingredients and place them in your work area. Pre-measure ingredients so that all you have to do is empty them into the mixing bowl.

Peel the hard-boiled egg and discard the shell. Place the egg into the mixing bowl and smash it into small bits using a fork.

Add the remaining pre-measured ingredients to the mixing bowl (cottage cheese, brown rice, chicken fat, brewer's yeast and salt substitute).

Mix the ingredients with a spoon until thoroughly combined.

Feed your dog 1/2 to 1 cup of the food at each meal (smaller serving sizes for smaller dogs, larger servings for large dogs).

Pour remaining dog food into an airtight storage container and keep refrigerated until ready to use. Use remaining food within one week and make a new batch.

Extreme Diets to Lose Weight Fast

It is common knowledge that America is one of the most overweight nations in the world. Everyone knows someone trying to lose weight for as many reasons as there are diet options. In addition, the variety and quantity of diets designed for fast weight loss serve as primary examples of the American obsession with quick fixes. These extreme diets are generally considered safe for healthy adults, but a doctor should be consulted prior to beginning. If you decide to try one, use it as an opportunity to examine your eating habits and establish a starting point for a healthy lifestyle.

The Master Cleanse diet, a detoxification diet once endorsed by high-profile celebrity dieter Beyonc Knowles, hit its peak in 2007-08. Originally developed by Stanley Burroughs in 1941, the diet was revived by Peter Glickman in his book "Lose Weight, Have More Energy and Be Happier in 10 Days." The Lemonade Master Cleanse is basically a 10-day water fast that relies on extreme calorie restriction for weight loss. The diet consists of drinking "lemonade" concocted from water, lemon or lime juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Since you are not consuming any solid food or fiber for the duration of the diet, you must take some type of "natural laxative" each morning and evening. Although you can expect to lose 10-15 pounds during your 10 days on the diet, expect to lose muscle and accumulate fat due to the lack of nutrition and balanced food intake.

The Grapefruit Diet, based loosely on the metabolic-enhancing properties of grapefruit, is also known as the Hollywood or Mayo Diet. The underlying notion of this diet is that eating grapefruit in combination with protein triggers the fat-burning properties of the grapefruit. The 12-day high-fat, high-protein diet works on calorie restriction, promising to help you shed 10 pounds. The diet entails consuming four meals a day that each include grapefruit and total 800-1,000 calories per day. Aside from not including sufficient calories to be healthy for the long-term, it is not a particularly harmful diet, except for the monotony of eating grapefruit with each meal.

The Three-Day Diet consists of a very low-calorie three-day diet plan that claims to help you lose 10 pounds in three days. While very calorie restrictive, the diet does retain a balance of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Due to the low amount of calories, you will experience hunger often, putting you at risk for reaching for junk food. There are no snacks built in to the meal plans, so expect to experience extremely high and extremely low energy levels. Staying on this plan for longer than three days is extremely dangerous as your body will enter starvation mode, beginning a cycle of yo-yo dieting as you likely will not keep the weight off long-term.

What Are the Benefits of CoQ10 Supplements?

Found naturally in every cell of the body, CoQ10 levels may naturally become depleted after the age of 40. It is described by Nicholas Perricone, M.D., in his New York Times bestselling book "The Wrinkle Cure" as one of the most vital antioxidants necessary for cell protection and repair. UV radiation or other environmental toxins we're exposed to every day, may deplete the body's source of it, so taking CoQ10 supplements can help rebalance your levels of this helpful enzyme.

Known as the "energy-boosting antioxidant," CoQ10 is responsible for increasing energy production, known as cellular metabolism, in the mitochondria of the cell. In addition, CoQ10 is found in especially concentrated amounts in the cell's membrane, where it is needed to protect the cell from free-radical, or oxidative, damage.

Because CoQ10 is fat soluble, when supplements are taken internally they will be better able to reach the cell membrane. Taking CoQ10 supplements helps protect the skin from premature aging and may even help reverse skin damage. Found naturally in salmon, nuts and red meat, CoQ10---in natural or supplement form---makes sense for slowing the again g of your skin. An added bonus, many report increased energy levels.

According to Dr. Perricone, topical creams that contain CoQ10 may be very effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ideal for a topical application as well as taken internally as a supplement, CoQ10 is completely nontoxic and helps prevent this aging without side effects.

Essential for a healthy heart, those who take CoQ10 supplements to improve cardiovascular health may also receive benefits of lowered blood pressure levels.

Heart patients are often given prescription medications, known as statin, that lower their blood cholesterol, but statins also lower CoQ10 levels, which may cause dry skin. Supplementing the diet with CoQ10 will counter this effect and provide the heart with protection from further oxidative damage.

Dr. Perricone recommends that those who are under the age of 40 supplement their diet with 30 to 100 milligrams of CoQ10 per day. Those who are over the age of 40 should take 100 milligrams daily. Dosage amounts should be divided between breakfast and lunch. Those who are taking CoQ10 because they have heart disease should ask their physician what dosage is right for them.

Saturday, July 19, 2014

How to make homemade mashed potatoes

Turn a basic mashed potato recipe into something smashing and succulent for friends, family and guests. Homemade mashed potatoes won't taste flat like the dehydrated, instant versions. Homemade mashed potatoes have the added texture benefit that delights the taste buds. Once you have made this all-American recipe, you will be ready to spice up your version and tailor it to your own personal tastes, diet needs or your family's desires. Homemade mashed potatoes are highly versatile. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Peel and dice them into 1-inch pieces. Remove any eyes that have formed on the potato.

Place the potatoes in a medium-sized pot and sprinkle with the salt. Fill the pot with cold water until the potatoes are completely covered.

Place the pot on the stove on high heat. Bring the water to a boil.

Lower the heat to a simmer and continue to cook the potatoes for another 10 minutes, or until they fall apart when you try to pick them up with a fork.

Drain the potatoes. Place them back into the pot and onto the burner.

Increase the heat to medium. Shake the pot continually over the burner for one minute to dry the potatoes.

Place the potatoes into the bowl.

Add the milk and butter to the pot. Heat the pot over medium heat until the milk is hot and the butter is melted, stirring frequently. Remove the pot from the heat and turn off the burner.

Mash the potatoes with the potato masher, adding in the milk and butter little by little until the potatoes have reached a smooth, moist consistency.

Season the potatoes with salt and pepper and stir again. Serve immediately.

What Is the Nutritional Value of Vinegar?

Vinegar is a fermented and acidic liquid used in a variety of recipes. There are many variations of vinegar, such as white, rice and apple cider. Most types of vinegar are fat-free and low in sodium and calories. Vinegar is also devoid of vitamins but contains minerals such as magnesium and potassium. Vinegar contains carbohydrates and sugar, so consumption should be moderated by those watching their sugar intake. Add this to my Recipe Box.

One cup of distilled vinegar contains about 30 calories. Red wine and cider vinegar have approximately 50 calories per cup, while balsamic vinegar contains over 200 calories per cup.

A cup of white vinegar contains approximately 12 grams of sugar. Balsamic vinegar has about 50 grams of sugar per cup.

Most types of vinegar contain a small amount of potassium. A cup of distilled vinegar contains 36 milligrams of potassium. A cup of apple cider vinegar contains 175 milligrams of potassium.

Vinegar has almost no sodium content, which makes it a popular staple in sodium-free diets. A cup of white vinegar contains less than three milligrams of sodium.

One cup of distilled white vinegar contains about 53 milligrams of magnesium, which is 13 percent of the daily recommended value.

Friday, July 18, 2014

C Difficile Colitis & Diet

A healthy person has flora---otherwise known as "good" bacteria---living in her digestive system, helping her body use food for fuel, eliminating wastes and keeping her immune system strong. However, there also are harmful bacteria, such as Clostridium difficile (C. difficile or C. diff for short), which can multiply in the bowel or intestines. This particular bacteria spore, which originates in soil, is the culprit behind pseudomembranous colitis--a C. difficile infection--of the large intestine.

Taking antibiotics can destroy the normal flora in the digestive system and cause a C. difficile infection flare-up. Other factors that can cause pseudomembranous colitis include chemotherapy, recent surgery and a previous history of colitis.

Signs and symptoms of pseudomembranous colitis are inflammation and irritation of the colon and sudden attacks of foul-smelling runny diarrhea. Other signs and symptoms include cramping and pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen before the onset of diarrhea, fever and blood/pus/mucus in the stool. If there is blood loss, it can result in low blood pressure or shock.

The first advice for any diet is to drink lots of water. Apple juice and tea are a colon's friend. Caffeinated beverages, acidic fruit juices and alcoholic beverages do not help an inflamed colon, but do make the symptoms worse. Instead of eating three large meals a day, cut the size of the meals in half and multiply your meals from three to six a day.

Most people afflicted with any kind of colitis are advised to stick to a diet free from sugar, sugar products, simple carbohydrates and high LDL products. Dairy products tend to aggravate an inflamed colon. People with pseudomembranous colitis should avoid dairy products and foods with husks.

Whole-kernel corn is not recommended. Since it is not digested well by a normal colon, it is obviously not good for a person with colitis. Brown rice can aggravate the lining of the colon and should be omitted from your diet. White rice and bananas, foods similar to what babies eat, are mainstays of the diet for someone with pseudomembranous colitis.

Fish, and fish oils in Omega-3 fatty acid capsule form, are easy on the intestines and help them to repair themselves. Oils found in nuts and seeds are highly recommended, but the whole seeds themselves should be avoided. Ground meals containing seeds and nuts are okay for a colitis diet. Ground grains are also easier to digest and pass through the colon.

Doctors also encourage patients to drink or take probiotic yogurt and acidophilus drinks and capsules. These supplements replenish the lost normal flora that is supposed to be in the intestines, balancing the digestive system and fighting off systemic irregularities. People dehydrated as a result of diarrhea from the infection also need to drink electrolyte-enhanced beverages, such as Smartwater or Gatorade.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

How to Lose 10 Pounds in the Atkins Diet Induction Phase

Losing weight on the Atkins diet is actually much easier than other weight loss programs. You are less hungry, and can eat tons of fatty foods, and still lose weight. The induction phase of the Atkins diet is the first phase and usually lasts about 2 weeks. On this phase of the diet you eat certain foods and will usually lose the most amount of weight.

Instructions

Go to your local drugstore and purchase some lipolysis strips. They have them specifically for low carbohydrate diets now. These will tell you if your body is burning fat. You put them under a stream of urine. The darker they are, the more fat your body is burning.

Your carbohydrate content should stay under 20 grams per day. Most unprocessed meats and eggs contain no carbohydrates, so you can eat these in unlimited amounts.

Eat eggs and sausage or bacon for breakfast. Be sure that the sausage or bacon has the least amount of carbohydrates possible (usually about 1 gram per serving).

Eat 2 cups of salad daily and up to 3 ounces of cheese. You can add these to any foods.

Eat hamburger, chicken, steak and shrimp in any amount you please. You can eat lunchmeat as well, just check carbohydrate content.

Do not eat any bread, pasta, cereals, potatos, cakes or anything else that is not meat, eggs, salad or cheese.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

How to Do the Rice Diet

The rice diet is a low-fat and low-salt diet aimed at preventing hypertension, obesity, heart disease and diabetes. The rice diet is considered a fairly strict regimen and usually results in rapid weight loss if the diet is followed correctly. Several books have been published on the rice diet, including "The Rice Diet Solution." The program consists mostly of foods that are high in fiber, whole grains, fruit and vegetables.

Instructions

Consume only about 800 calories and 50 mg of sodium on the first day. You can calculate how many calories you are consuming at The Daily Plate (see Resources section). Eat two starches, like rice and toast, and two in-season fruits for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Consume 1,100 calories a day and 300 mg of sodium per day for the rest of the week. For breakfast each day, eat toast, one in-season fruit and one nonfat yogurt. For lunch and dinner, you can eat three starches, like rice and toast or pasta, three in-season vegetables and one in-season fruit.

Repeat steps 1 and 2 during the second week, until the last day of the week. On the last day, you can consume 1,200 calories and 500 mg of sodium. For breakfast, eat toast and rice and one in-season fruit. For lunch, eat three starches, like toast, rice and pasta, three in-season vegetables, and one in-season fruit. For dinner, eat three starches, like toast, rice and pasta, three proteins, like lean chicken, lean pork and low-sodium black beans, three in-season vegetables, and one in-season fruit.

Eat 800 calories and 50 mg of sodium as in step 1 for the next few weeks. For the four days following, eat 1,100 calories a day and 300 mg of sodium per day as in step 2. During the final two days of the diet, consume 1,200 calories and 500 mg of sodium as in step 3. Each week, you may add 200 calories to your diet per week.

Stop adding 200 calories per week to the diet when you stop losing weight. This weekly regimen is a diet that you can stay on for as long as you like.

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

How to Make Yourself More Alkaline

Research shows that pH balance--the ratio of alkalinity to acidity in the body--is crucial to good health. The body should be more alkaline than acid, although balance is key. Higher alkaline means more oxygen is available in the blood to be circulated throughout the body. An acidic pH means less oxygen in the blood and is associated with fatigue, insomnia, weight gain, depression and many diseases, even cancer. The pH range is from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Above 7.0 is alkaline; below 7.0 is acidic. Human blood should be slightly alkaline from 7.35 to 7.45. However, studies show most people today fall into the acidic range.
You can test your pH balance with in-home test strips available at health food stores. If you find your body is too acidic, you can follow some easy steps to make yourself more alkaline. It may take a month or two to find your balance, but the added energy, well-being and health will be worth it.

Instructions

Eat more alkaline-producing foods. These include many fruits and vegetables, some nuts, green tea and many more. Go to AcidAlkalineDiet.com to download a free comprehensive alkaline/acid food list you can take shopping and to restaurants. Optimally, your diet should be 60 percent alkaline.

Limit acid-producing foods. Red meat and pork are the big culprits, as are artificial sweeteners, colas and processed foods. Again, consult your food list. If your pH test shows you to be extremely acidic, avoid the worst offenders until your pH levels are more balanced. Then, include your favorite acidic foods as long as they are only 30 percent of your diet.

Drink alkaline water. Alkaline water helps the body filter out toxins and reduces acid. Water is made alkaline three ways: distill it, ionize it or add alkaline ingredients to it. For step-by-step instructions on how to make your water more alkaline, check out: energiseforlife.com/wordpress/1904/alkaline-water-the-benefits-of-alkaline-drinking-water.

Take a quality mineral supplement every day. Minerals, such as magnesium and potassium, are important for every function of the body, but especially in keeping the adrenal glands healthy. The adrenal glands help control the body's pH. Mineral deficiency means an acidic body.

Don't worry, be happy. Practice gratitude every day. Meditate, play sports, do yoga. Or invest in binaural beat brainwave entrainment technology, such as Holosync, which has been proven to reduce stress by altering brain waves. Stress and the resulting release of excess cortisol into the blood play a major role in increasing acidity.

Monday, July 14, 2014

How to Treat Sciatica Naturally with Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplements can boost the body's own natural capacity to fight inflammation deliver sciatic nerve pain relief. According to neurologist David Perlmutter, M.D. (See Resources below) a number of nutritional supplements can re-program the chemical process in the body that produces pain signals. This involves controlling a group of hormone-like molecules that are called prostaglandins, by inhibiting their capacity to trigger inflammation. Read on to learn more about supplements

Instructions

Take bromelain and quercetin nutritional supplements for sciatic nerve pain relief

Take up to 1,000 mg of bromelain and 500 mg of quercetin 4 times a day, between your meals to relieve sciatic nerve pain. Bromelain, which is an enzyme found in pineapple, is described as the jack-of-all-trades in fighting inflammation. Quercetin is a compound that works in combination with bromelain to block the process of inflammation.

Omega 3 and Omega 6 Nutritional Supplements

Use nutritional supplements that are rich in omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids for sciatic nerve pain relief. These essential fatty acids have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with pinched nerve (sciatica).

Take one tablespoon of flaxseed oil with three capsules of evening primrose oil nutritional supplements. You can substitute 500 milligrams of black currant oil for the evening primrose capsules. Substitute 1,000 milligrams of fish oil nutritional supplements two to four times a day as a substitute for the flaxseed oil.

Turmeric nutritional supplements ease sciatic nerve pain

Add turmeric nutritional supplements to your diet. This spice contains a compound called curcumin, which is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory drugs in nature's pharmacy. For acute sciatic nerve pain, take 250 to 500 milligrams three times a day.
IMPORTANT: You must not take turmeric nutritional supplements if you are pregnant, or suffer from ulcers, gallstones or acid reflux.

Valerian nutritional supplements for sciatic nerve pain relief

Take 150 mg of valerian three times a day, if a doctor determines that your sciatic nerve pain is caused by a spastic muscle.

Friday, July 11, 2014

How to Feed Goldfish

Funny how the simplest procedure - feeding your fish - can be so easily botched. For proper feeding, consider the following.

Instructions

Purchase the right kind of food for your fish. Goldfish need protein and a wide range of vitamins and carbohydrates, so choose a nutrient-rich food specifically for goldfish. Use either flake-form or floating pellets. Ask at the aquarium store for food recommendations for the specific type of goldfish you own.

Consider occasionally offering snacks, such as leafy vegetables (lettuce and spinach) or live food (brine shrimp and mosquito larvae), for variety.

Feed your fish once a day by adding one small pinch of food to the tank at a time. In general, provide as much food as the fish will consume in 2 minutes. (Vary this accordingly for larger fish.) Remember to offer just a tiny amount in each pinch.

Remove excess food with a net after the feeding session, to avoid polluting the water.

Consider using a feeding ring, which attaches to the side of the tank and allows better control, thus reducing the risk of overfeeding your fish.

How to Lose a Pound a Day With Diet

Long term weight loss requires you to alter your lifestyle by changing your diet and increasing your exercise. If you want to lose weight and keep it off, you should expect to lose about one to two pounds per week. If you are trying to lose weight for an imminent special occasion such as a wedding or reunion, however, it is possible to lose weight much faster. These types of goals can be great motivators, but you need to make sure that you are not starving yourself.

Instructions

Eat at least 1,050 and 1,200 calories per day. According to Dr. Michael Dansinger, this is the minimum you can eat without forcing your body to go into starvation mode. If you try to eat less than this, you will actually trick your body into storing more fat because your body is reacting to famine and preserving calories in order to keep you alive.

Perform one hour of cardiovascular exercise per day. Cardiovascular exercise burns calories quickly and will also help to tighten and firm your muscles. Under normal circumstances, you need to give your body days off to recover from your exercise routine. If you have a specific event you are trying to lose weight for, however, you can increase your exercise without doing your body harm.

Reduce your intake of sodium and starches. This will reduce your fluids and fluid retention or bloating. Eliminating sodium from your diet can cause you to lose up to five pounds when you first start your diet. This water loss is perfect for dieters trying to meet a close goal.

Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, egg whites, soy products, skinless chicken breasts, fish, shellfish, nonfat dairy and 95 percent lean meat. Eliminating sugars, starches and animal fats from your diet but keeping the protein will allow you to burn fat while not burning muscle, according to Dr. Dawn Jackson Blatner.

Drink eight glasses of water per day. You need to stay hydrated and drinking plenty of water will prevent you from confusing thirst for hunger.

Throw out all of your unhealthy foods. This will prevent you from being tempted to break your diet. You can also write down everything you eat, which could make you feel more accountable for your diet.

Nibble on fennel seeds, ginger, parsley, peppermint, pineapple and yogurt with honey. According to Dr. Blatner, these foods will make you feel less bloated and will make your stomach look smaller, even if you didn't actually lose as much weight as you were hoping.

How to Lose Weight With the Popcorn Diet

There is a weight loss diet that focuses on just about every type of food out there, and popcorn is no exception. Popcorn is a handy food that is inexpensive, easy to make and high in fiber. Eating popcorn regularly, as long as there isn't butter or excessive salt added, can be part of a healthy, low-calorie diet for weight loss.

Instructions

Eat a few small, healthy meals each day. Concentrate your meals around high protein, low-fat foods. Start to or continue to eat vegetables and fruit as part of your healthy eating regimen.

Skip the normal snack foods during the day and use only popcorn as your snacks. Keep popcorn around the house at all times.

Get rid of other snack foods in the house that are high in fat and calories.

Drink water with your snacks instead of soda or other high-calorie drinks such as sugary juices.

Buy a hot air popper and popcorn kernels, and use those items to make popcorn instead of using microwave popcorn in your diet. Pop the popcorn without using oil to keep it low-calorie.

Enjoy the hot-air popcorn plain instead of putting butter or popcorn sprinkles on it, which can be high in fat, calories and sodium. Eat as much of this popcorn as you wish, which keeps you full because of its high fiber content. Lose weight as you constantly feel full from eating this low-calorie food.

Thursday, July 10, 2014

What Is a Good Diet for Cancer Patients?

Cancer patients have a lot on their plates--from the psychological effects of knowing that a growth within their body is threatening their health, to the physical rigors of conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Speaking of plates, though, what diet is appropriate for cancer patients? Can they eat anything, or are there foods that might be best avoided?

Tomatoes are recommended for those with prostate cancer. The lycopene in tomatoes, which is a powerful antioxidant, has been found to reduce some cancer and even heart disease. Other vegetables which have demonstrated some cancer-fighting abilities include garlic, soy, cabbage, ginger, parsnip, parsley, celery, carrots and cilantro. Onions, citrus, flax seed and cauliflower, while less proven, are nevertheless believed to fight cancer to a moderate degree. Most fruits only help, too, as they are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, potassium and folate--all of which helps the body fight cancer. Especially recommended: fresh berries, apples and bananas.

While highly caffeinated drinks like coffee and some teas should be avoided, other teas have shown to be beneficial for cancer patients. These include green teas, black teas and oolong teas. Alcohol should be avoided by cancer patients.

Cancer patients should feel free to consume dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese and butter. Still, cancer patients should avoid more than three servings of dairy each day. Whole grains are highly recommended for cancer patients. True whole grain products are a fantastic source of antioxidants. In additional, whole grains contain lots of B vitamins, vitamin E, fiber, iron and magnesium. Such whole grains include popcorn, bulgar, barley, oatmeal, wild rice, brown rice, whole wheat, millet and sorghum.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Which Foods Can Be Eaten on the No Sugar & Flour Diet?

Dr. Peter Gott's No Sugar, No Flour Diet follows a simple principle: Eliminate from your diet all foods containing added sugar, and flour. Many of these foods are also high in fat, like donuts and pizza. By eliminating these foods you're eliminating not just the fat, but the empty calories that come from refined sugars and over-processed flour with little nutritional value. After eliminating those foods with sugar or flour in them, you are left with a plethora of nutritional, high-fiber, low-fat foods.

The No Sugar, No Flour Diet does not advocate a low carbohydrate diet. In fact, the diet recommends eating a variety of carbohydrates from whole grain sources such as barley, brown rice, oats and other legumes. The focus is on eating fresh fruits and vegetables which will replace any missing fiber from flour-based products as well as supplementing additional sources of carbohydrates. What is missing are the over processed flours and sugars found in many multi-ingredient processed foods.

Dr. Gott, the creator of this diet, suggests removing all sources of sugar from your diet. That would be foods such as brown sugar, honey, syrups, molasses and regular white sugar. Foods with naturally occurring sugars like fruits and juices can be consumed, and even used as sweeteners in recipes. In addition, artificial sweeteners like Splenda can be used sparingly.

Products containing any kind of flour including wheat flours, corn, rice or potato are not allowed. Instead the diet advocates consuming whole grains like wheat berries, whole corn, potatoes and other grains to add fiber and bulk to your meals. Other good choices for starchy filling foods are vegetables and salads. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, kohlrabi, carrots and radishes are another great way to get added fiber with no flour.

Eating a variety of lean proteins is also advised for those on this diet. Lean proteins can include skinless chicken or turkey, pork and lean cuts of beef, fish, nuts and seeds. Combination foods like sausage should be carefully examined as the ingredient label may contain hidden sugar or flour thickeners. Low-fat dairy is also a good protein option, but read labels as some dairy smoothies and yogurts contain added sugar.

No new diet or exercise program should be started without consulting your doctor or health practitioner. Be careful to read the No Flour, No Sugar Diet book carefully and follow all instructions to ensure that you're following the diet correctly. Always consume a wide variety of foods to ensure maximum nutritional benefit, and if in doubt or feeling any ill effects, consult your doctor.

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Maca Root Dangers

Marketed as the "super food of the Andes," maca root is a dehydrated cruciferous root vegetable that has been used for medicinal purposes for more than 10,000 years. Today, maca root is sold in pharmacies and health and wellness stores, usually in capsulated powder form. It is marketed as an herbal supplement that helps increase energy, physical stamina, sexual drive and fertility. It is also touted for having a positive impact on the immune system. Maca root is generally considered safe. However, some side effects have been noted, and before taking it, you should consult your physician--especially if you have any health issues.

Maca root is said to contain more than 55 phyto-chemicals including hormonal precursors and sterols, which may lead to increased libido and stamina. Because it can alter a person's hormonal levels, this herb can lead to hormonal imbalance. Some women, for instance, have reported acne breakouts, water retention or bloating, mood swings and hot flashes when taking maca supplements. Other noted side effects, which are most probably related to hormonal imbalance, include upset stomach, headaches, heartburn and increased heart rate.

Some people find that hormonal symptoms such as acne breakouts and bloating may actually be relieved with the help of maca root because it stabilizes hormone levels. Some have reported that their skin cleared up with continued use of this supplement. In other cases, side effects such as increased sexual drive may be seen as an unwanted side effect; someone taking maca root for hormonal symptoms may not desire the increased libido.

While maca root is generally beneficial for users with thyroid problems, individuals suffering from Hashimoto's hypothyroidism are encouraged to avoid maca root and use black currant oil instead. According to user feedback posted on SoulCysters.net, maca root can bind thyroid hormones, making them unstable at the cellular level in the case of individuals with Hashimoto's hypothyroidism.

The raw maca root contains the chemical glucosinolate, which is known to be a direct or indirect cause of goiters. According to SkinCareTalk.com, when the glucosinolate in maca root is combined with a low-sodium diet, it can increase the development of goiters.

As with any drug or food type, some people are allergic to the maca root and may develop rashes, itchiness, hives, redness of skin and fatigue after it has been digested. Any allergic reactions should be reported to your physician so quick corrective action can be taken.

Monday, July 7, 2014

The Best Low Carb Diet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, July 6, 2014

How to Make Extra-Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Many recipes call for plain old milk for mashed potatoes, but there's no denying that good old cream (not even half-and-half) makes the richest mashed potatoes around. Yum. Serves 6. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Put the potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover by 1 inch.

Add 1/4 tsp. salt for each quart of water. Add the garlic, the scallions, the celery and the bay leaf.

Bring water to a boil over high heat and cook the potatoes until tender when pierced with a knife tip, about 20 minutes.

Drain the potatoes well and remove large pieces of vegetables and herbs.

Put the potatoes back in the pot they were cooked in and shake over medium heat until the potatoes chunks are mealy and dry.

Cover and set aside.

Put cream and butter in a small saucepan and heat until warm over low heat.

Pass the potatoes quickly through a potato ricer.

Pour warmed cream and butter over the potatoes and whip together with a whisk or in a food processor. Whip another 30 seconds until fluffy.

Salt and pepper potatoes to taste and serve immediately with softened butter.

Pages

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Oil Remedies

Kitchen Remedies

Fruit Remedies

Balanced Diet

Facts

Effects/Symptoms

Types

Causes

Solutions/Treatment

Electrolytes

Kidneys and Lungs

Cushing's Syndrome

Hyperaldosteronism

Vomiting

Instructions

Monday, July 28, 2014

Instructions

Sunday, July 27, 2014

Natural Diet

Water

Diet in Captivity

Basic Diet Tips

Sample Menu

Foods to Avoid

Before Using

Precautions

Side Effects

Use

Warning

Friday, July 25, 2014

Instructions

Instructions

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Children

Pregnant and Nursing Women

Side Effects

Mixing Medication

Bottom Line

Instructions

Instructions

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Instructions

Instructions

Purpose of Preparation

Food

Liquid Aids

Pills

Other Tips

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Green Tea

Milk

Coffee

Lean Meats

Fruits

Fiber Foods

Instructions

Monday, July 21, 2014

History

Function

Considerations

Warning

Expert Insight

Keep Total Calories Low

Focus on Fruits and Vegetables

Practice Portion Control

Think Variety

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Instructions

The Lemonade Master Cleanse Diet

The Grapefruit Diet

The Three-Day Diet

Function of CoQ10

For Aging Skin

Applied Topically

For the Heart

Recommended Dosage

Saturday, July 19, 2014

Instructions