Vitamins Antioxidants Etc.

5 Supplements for Optimum Health

karen21 — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:26:20 +0000

If you are like most people, you are interested and often bewildered about which vitamins and supplements to choose for optimum wellness. We do not blame you. There is a great deal of conflicting data out there. And even while you do come up with data you believe in, it is frequently hard to interpret. That is why we went directly to one of our best sources – Michael F. Roizen, M.D., chief wellness officer at the Cleveland Clinic – to get the best information. If you want to know what your body actually requires, here is the uncomplicated, direct solution.

1. Calcium/Magnesium
You in all probability recognize that calcium is beneficial for your bones. It is a component part of the solution in preventing osteoporosis – and, contrary to popular belief, it is not simply for aged people. “I advocate calcium 3 times daily beginning at age twenty,” says Dr. Roizen. “The average human can absorb just 600 mg of calcium at one time. Therefore to arrive at the exact dose, you need to separate it into 600 mg doses.” The magnesium is there to protect your stomach. It prevents constipation, bloating and other gastrointestinal irritations stimulated by the calcium. Additionally, the bulk of Americans do not ingest adequate magnesium (which is plentiful in fruits and veggies) in their diet, so regard this an insurance policy to cover all the bases.

2. Vitamin D3
Whenever calcium is what your body needs, then vitamin D3 should be on the menu as well. Vitamin D3 increases absorption of calcium, allowing it to get to your bones to be strengthened. Regrettably, reports show that up to eighty-seven % of Americans are lacking in vitamin D3. Satisfactory levels of vitamin D have been connected with a lesser risk of heart conditions, dementia, MS and some cancers. To get the most out of your vitamin D, consume it with your main meal of the day. As it is a fat-soluble vitamin, consuming it with a meal will assist it to be absorbed more effectively.

3. DHA
DHA omega-3 fatty acids are the good fats which are found in fish such as salmon and tuna fish. This healthy fat is beneficial for almost all parts of your body – from head to toe – because, amongst other things, consumption of DHA has been connected with a lower chance of developing destructive age-related problems such as dementia and macular degeneration (the most common cause of blindness). DHA omega-3 fatty acids are also the odd-job man of your arterial system, since they can do a great deal of fixing up. They reduce triglyceride levels in your blood (high triglycerides are a big cause of plaque buildup), help increase healthy (HDL) cholesterol numbers and could even assist in reducing the risk of cardiac arrhythmia after a heart attack. As a matter of fact, DHA could even help prevent the heart attack to begin with! If you consume 400 mg of DHA each day, Dr. Roizen still advocates consuming fish rich in omega-3s at least once a week.

4. Multivitamin
Consuming one-half a multivitamin morning time and nighttime is an insurance policy for a less-than-perfect diet, says Dr. Roizen. And just in case you are curious, merely about 1 % of people are in reality getting the correct measure of vitamins and minerals from food entirely, according to Dr. Roizen. Why take one-half twice daily? You generally pee away the water-soluble vitamins within 8 to 16 hrs, in order to get all the good stuff in your system, you want to consume some twice daily.

5. Probiotics
Probiotics are in reality bacteria, however they are a good type of bug that assists in keeping your gastrointestinal system running smoothly, fortifies your immune system and reduces harmful inflammation. A developing body of scientific evidence confirms the information that you are able to treat and even prevent some sicknesses with foods and supplementations containing probiotics. Think of it this way: You have ten trillion bacteria in and on you, so making sure you’ve the good bacteria that assist in keeping the harmful stuff under control should be a no-brainer.

Amazing Power of Amino Acids

karen21 — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 20:48:29 +0000

In 1838, a Dutch chemist, G.J. Mulder, described a certain organic material as “unquestionably the most important of all known substances in the organic kingdom. Without it, no life appears possible on our planet. Through its means the chief phenomena of life are produced. ” This complex nitrogen-bearing substance was called protein from the Greek word meaning ” take the first place.” Protein in now a group name signifying the principal nitrogenous constituents of the protoplasm of all plant and animal tissues.

Proteins are extremely complex organic compounds of the elements carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and,with some exceptions, sulphur. Most proteins also contain phosphorous, and some specialised proteins contain iron, iodine, copper and other inorganic elements. The presence of nitrogen distinguishes proteins from carbohydrates and fats.
Proteins are thus vital substances, which form important constituent of muscles, tissues, and the blood. Proteins supply the building material for the body and make good the wear and tear of tissues. Several substances concerned with vital life processes such as enzymes, which help in digestion of food, are chiefly protein in nature.

There are several varieties of protein. Each type contains a specific number of “building blocks ” known as amino-acids. Before they can be absorbed by the body, all proteins must first be broken down into amino-acids. When food stuffs are ingested, the nutrients and amino-acids do not immediately diffuse into all the different tissues. There are a series of biochemical reactions in the digestive tract which collect these proteins, break them down and then utilise them as needed. Any interference with the normal digestive process causes in-complete protein digestion resulting in gas, bloating etc.

There are about 22 amino acids needed for the normal functioning of the body. The body can manufacture many amino acids if it has no adequate nitrogen source, but it cannot produce certain others in sufficient amounts to meet its needs. The amino acids that the body cannot synthesis is in adequate amounts are called essential or indispensable because they must be supplied by the diet in proper proportions and amounts to meet the requirements for maintenance of growth of tissue. Non-essential or dispensable amino acids are those that the body can synthesize in sufficient amounts to meet its needs if the total amount of nitrogen supplied by protein is adequate.

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The Importance of Dietary Fibre

karen21 — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 08:48:29 +0000

Fibre forms the skeletal system of plants. Without it no plant or tree would be able to stand
upright. Dietary fibre, the roughage of yesteryears, consists of those parts of the plant foods that
cannot be digested by enzymes or other digestive secretions in the ailmentary canal.

Dietary fibre plays an important role in the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases.

There is sufficient evidence to suggest that an artificial depletion of fibre as in case of refined cereals and sugar has over the last 100 years contributed to several degenerative diseases.

Recent studies in this area indicate that sufficient intake of fibre-rich diet may help prevent obesity, colon cancer, heart disease, gallstones, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis and diabetic conditions.

Studies have also established that dietary fibre is a collection of elements with a variety of functions rather than a single substance with single function as was assumed earlier. This new insight into the true nature of fibre has given the lie to old beliefs that bran is synonymous with fibre, that all fibre is fibrous or stringy and that all fibre tastes the same.

Physiological effects

Fibre in the diet promotes more frequent bowel movements and softer stools having increased weight. The softness of stools is largely due to the presence of emulsified gas which is produced by the bacterial action on the fibre. A high fibre intake results in greater efficiency in the peristaltic movement of the colon. This helps in relieving the constipation which is the main cause of several acute and chronic diseases.

Recent studies suggest that increasing the dietary fibre intake may be beneficial for patients with irritated bowel syndrome who have diarrhoea and rapid colonic transit, as well as to those who have constipation and slow transit. The high fibre diet, like bran, thus regulates the condition inside the colon so as to avoid both extremes – constipation and diarrhoea.

Investigations have shown that several potential carcinogens are produced in the faeces. Their production is related to the acidity of the gut content. The greater the acidity in the bowel content, the less is the production of these carcinogens. The breaking down of the fibre by bacteria renders the faeces more acidic. This reduces the amount of possible carcinogenic substances. Fibre also reduces the possibility of formation of harmful toxins in the large intestine by reducing the intestinal transit time of the food contents.

Dietary fibre increases the bacteria in the large intestines which require nitrogen for their growth. This in turn reduces the chances of cancerous changes in cells by reducing the amount of ammonia in the large bowel. Fibre reduces the absorption of cholesterol in the diet. It also slows down the rate of absorption of sugars from the food in the digestive system.

Certain types of fibre increase the viscosity of the food content. This increased viscosity indirectly reduces the need for insulin secreted by the pancreas. Thus a fibre-rich diet can help in diabetes mollitus

Sources of Fibre

The most significant food sources of fibre are unprocessed wheat bran, whole cereals such as wheat, rice, barley, rye, millets ; legumes such as potato, carrots, beet , turnip and sweet potato ; fruits like mango and guava and leafy vegetables such as cabbage, lettuce and celery. The percentage of fibre content per 100 gms. of some foods are : bran 10.5-13.5, whole grain cereals 1.0-2.0, nuts 2.0-5.0, legumes 1.5-1.7, vegetables 0.5-1.5, fresh fruits 0.5-1.5, and dried fruits 1.0-3.0.

The foods which are completely devoid of fibre are meat, fish , eggs, milk, cheese, fats and sugars.

Bran, the outer coverings of grains, is one of the richest sources of dietary fibre. And it contains several types of fibre including cellulose, hermicellulose and pectin. Wheat and corn bran are highly beneficial in relieving constipation. Experiments show that oat bran can reduce cholesterol levels substantially. Corn bran is considered more versatile. It relieves constipation.

Dietary Fibre lowers LDL cholesterol, which is one of the more harmful kinds. Besides being rich in fibre, bran has a real food value being rich in time, iron and vitamins and containing a considerable amount of protein.

Legumes have high fibre content. Much of this fibre is water- soluble, which makes legumes likely agents for lowering cholesterol. Soyabeans, besides this, can also help control glucose levels.

The types of fibre contained in vegetables and fruits contribute greatly towards good health. The vegetables with the biggest fibre ratings include sweet corn, carrots, potatoes, parsnips and peas. And among the high ranking fruits are raspberries, pears, strawberries and guavas.

Types of Fibres

There are six classes of fibre. They are cellulose, hemicellouse, pectin, gums, mucilages and legnin.

They differ in physical properties and chemical interactions in the gut, though all except legnin are poly-saceharides. The facts known so far about these forms of fibre as a result of various studies are discussed below.

Cellulose : It is the most prevalent fibre. It is fibrous and softens the stool. It abounds in fruits, vegetables, bran, whole-meal bread and beans. It is also present in nuts and seeds. It increases the bulk of intestinal waste and eases it quickly through the colon. Investigations indicate that these actions may dilute and flush cancer-causing toxins out of the intestinal tract. They also suggest that cellulose may help level out glucose in the blood and curb weight gain.

Hermicellulose : It is usually present wherever cellulose is and shares some of its traits. Like cellulose, it helps relieve con- stipation, waters down carcinogens in the bowel and aids in weight reduction. Both cellulose and hemicellulose undergo some bacterial breakdown in the large intestine and this produces gas.

Pectin : This form of fibre is highly beneficial in reducing serum cholesterol levels. It, however, does not have influence on the stool and does nothing to prevent constipation. Research is being conducted to ascertain if pectin can help eliminate bile acids through the intestinal tract thereby preventing gallstones and colon cancer. It is found in apples, grapes, berries, citrus fruits, guava, raw papaya and bran.

Gums and Mucilages : They are the sticky fibres found in dried beans, oat bran and oatmeal.

Investigations have shown that they are useful in the dietary control of diabetes and cholesterol.

Legnin : The main function of legnin is to escort bile acid and cholesterol out of the intestines. There is some evidence that it may prevent the formation of gallstones. It is contained in cereals, bran, whole meal flour, raspberries, strawberries, cab- bage, spinach, parsley and tomatoes.

The best way to increase fibre content in the diet is to increase the consumption of wholemeal bread, brown rice, peas beans, lentils, root vegetables and sugar -containing fruits, such as dates, apples, pears and bananas. The intake of sugar, refined cereals, meat, eggs and dairy products should be reduced. Candies, pastries, cakes which are rich in both sugar and fat, should be taken sparingly. White processed bread should be completely eliminated from the diet.

Requirement :

There are divergent views as to the requirement of dietary fibre for good health. There is no recommended daily dietary allowance for it and hardly any data about optimum amounts. Some Africans known for lower incidence of degenerative diseases take about 150 grams of fibre a day. In Europe and North America, where there is a high incidence of such diseases, people take 25 grams or less a day. Dr. John H. Cummings, a noted fibre expert in England, considers that a fibre intake of 30 grams ( about one ounce ) per day is sufficient for good health.

Excessive consumption of fibre, especially bran, should however, be avoided. Due to its content of crude fibre, bran is relatively harsh and it may irritate the delicate functioning of the digestive system, especially in the sick and the weak. Excessive use of fibre may also result in loss of valuable minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium from the body through excretion due to quick passage of food from the intestine.

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Cancer Fighting Foods

karen21 — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 20:48:29 +0000

According to the National Cancer Institute, as much as 80 percent of all cancers are due to identified factors, and thus are potentially preventable. (It is estimated that only 5 to 10 percent of all cancer cases are inherited.) Thirty percent are due to tobacco use, and as much as 35 to 50 percent are due to foods. The evidence also indicates that although genetics is a factor in the development of cancer, cancer cannot be explained by heredity alone. Behavioral factors such as cigarette smoking, dietary choices, and physical activity modify the risk of cancer at all stages of its development. The introduction of healthful diet and exercise practices at any time from childhood to old age can promote health and reduce cancer risk. Stress can also lead to unhealthy and potentially cancer-causing habits which can contribute to an increased risk of developing cancer. There are things you can do to control these and other risk factors.

Studies show that consumption of green and yellow leafy vegetables has been associated with lower levels of stomach cancer.

Some recommendations include:

Eat a variety of healthy foods, with an emphasis on plant sources.

Eat foods as close to their natural state as possible.

If a food will not rot or sprout, then throw it out.

Avoid heavily processed foods.

Eat five or more servings of a variety of vegetables and fruits each day.

Choose whole grains in preference to processed (refined) grains and sugars.

Limit consumption of red meats, especially those high in fat and processed.

Choose foods that help maintain a healthy weight.

Balance calorie intake with physical activity.

Lose weight if currently overweight or obese.

If you drink alcoholic beverages, limit consumption.

Reduce or cut out tobacco use

Avoid sugar. Cancer loves sugar. Some even feel cancer thrives on most carbohydrates too, so it would make sense to limit some of these too such as corn and potatoes.

The following foods have the ability to help stave off cancer and some can even help inhibit cancer cell growth or reduce tumor size.

Avocados

are rich in glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body by blocking intestinal absorption of certain fats. They also supply even more potassium than bananas and are a strong source of beta-carotene. Scientists also believe that avocados may also be useful in treating viral hepatitis (a cause of liver cancer), as well as other sources of liver damage.

Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower

have a chemical component called indole-3-carbinol that can combat breast cancer by converting a cancer-promoting estrogen into a more protective variety.

Broccoli, especially sprouts,

also have the phytochemical sulforaphane, a product of glucoraphanin – believed to aid in preventing some types of cancer, like colon and rectal cancer. Sulforaphane induces the production of certain enzymes that can deactivate free radicals and carcinogens. The enzymes have been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors in laboratory animals. However, be aware that the Agriculture Department studied 71 types of broccoli plants and found a 30-fold difference in the amounts of glucoraphanin. It appears that the more bitter the broccoli is, the more glucoraphanin it has. Broccoli sprouts have been developed under the trade name BroccoSprouts that have a consistent level of sulforaphane – as much as 20 times higher than the levels found in mature heads of broccoli.

Carrots

contain a lot of beta carotene, which may help reduce a wide range of cancers including lung, mouth, throat, stomach, intestine, bladder, prostate and breast. Some research indicated beta carotene may actually cause cancer, but this has not proven that eating carrots, unless in very large quantities – 2 to 3 kilos a day, can cause cancer. In fact, a substance called falcarinol that is found in carrots has been found to reduce the risk of cancer, according to researchers at Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences (DIAS). Kirsten Brandt, head of the research department, explained that isolated cancer cells grow more slowly when exposed to falcarinol. This substance is a polyacethylen, however, so it is important not to cook the carrots.

Chili peppers and jalapenos

contain a chemical, capsaicin, which may neutralize certain cancer-causing substances (nitrosamines) and may help prevent cancers such as stomach cancer. Cruciferous vegetables

- broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain two antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin that may help decrease prostate and other cancers.

Figs

apparently have a derivative of benzaldehyde. It has been reported that investigators at the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research in Tokyo say benzaldehyde is highly effective at shrinking tumors, though I haven’t seen this report. In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says figs, which contain vitamins A and C, and calcium, magnesium and potassium, may curtail appetite and improve weight-loss efforts. Fig juice is also a potent bacteria killer in test-tube studies.

Flax

contains lignans, which may have an antioxidant effect and block or suppress cancerous changes. Flax is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to protect against colon cancer and heart disease.

Garlic

has immune-enhancing allium compounds (dialyl sultides) that appear to increase the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and indirectly help break down cancer causing substances. These substances also help block carcinogens from entering cells and slow tumor development. Diallyl sulfide, a component of garlic oil, has also been shown to render carcinogens in the liver inactive.

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Tava Tea for Weightloss

karen21 — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:39:42 +0000

There is no doubt that losing weight is a very difficult thing to do – especially if your will power isn’t up to much. Fortunately, today there are lots of products on the market that can help you to lose those extra pounds.

One of the latest weight loss products is Tava Tea.

This pleasant tasting tea will help you to burn 2.5% more calories without any extra effort. It also reduces the fattening effects of the carbohydrates that you eat, helps calm your mind and body and can help reverse the signs of aging.

Tava Tea is certified organic and contains essential minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.

Tava Tea is proven to work and will help reduce both body fat and cholesterol levels.

Unlike most other weight loss tea’s Tava tastes great and arrives in high quality pyramid bags, Tava Tea is also proven to ease digestion and reduce bloating.

It comes with a ‘no risk’ money back guarantee so you have nothing to lose by giving it a try.

Vitamins for Energy

karen21 — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:09:51 +0000

The biggest complaint that doctors often hear from patients is a lack of energy, or the constant feeling of fatigue. Due to these types of complaints, it really isn’t a surprise that people want to know the best types of vitamins and supplements they can get for energy. All vitamins are ideal for staying healthy, as well as keeping your body performing in top shape.

Among vitamins and supplements, one of the most common for energy is folic acid. Folic acid is a B vitamin that has been proven to increase energy levels. Even though you can look for vitamins that provide energy, it would be in your best interest to find those that can be effective with fighting fatigue as well. There are vitamins, nutrients, and supplements that are great for fighting fatigue and helping the body stay alert.Try taking a multivitamin supplement that include all of the B vitamins.

Another supplement that is great for providing energy is gingko biloba.

If you happen to be on a blood thinner, such as aspirin, you should always consult with a doctor or other trained specialist before you take gingko biloba, as it is a blood thinning agent. Even though it is considered to be an energy vitamin, if you use it with aspirin it can thin your blood down a bit too much. If you get your blood too thin, it may lead to medical problems later on in life that can prevent you from doing the things you love.

With any vitamin that you take for a source of energy, you should always consult with your doctor.

In the world of vitamins and supplements, there are many alternative sources that you can take for energy. Whether you are a senior citizen looking to do more activities or an athlete looking to get more energy, there are many different vitamins out there that can give you what you need. Before you rush out and explore your options though, you should always consult with your doctor first and see if there are any vitamins you shouldn’t be taking.

Vitamins to Help with Hair Loss

karen21 — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 05:58:18 +0000

Loss of hair could be the result of not having enough vitamin B supplements. Vitamin B is very important, as it contains B3 niacin, which is very important for hair growth. Vitamin B6 is another important vitamin, containing nutrients such as sulfur, biotin, magnesium, and zinc. Without these vitamins, your body won’t be able to grow strong, healthy hair, which commonly results hair loss as we get older.

What many people fail to realize, is the importance of vitamin B. Research has shown in the past that vitamin B is very important to hair growth. Men who consume foods that are rich in vitamin B are less likely to experience hair loss. Vitamin B is an essential vitamin, and also one that enriches the overall quality and thickness of hair.

Vitamin A is also important with hair growth. To get the proper amount of vitamin A, you should consume fatty acids. Some examples include flaxseed oil, primrose, and salmon oil. If you consume these types of fatty acids, you’ll get the right amount of vitamin A that is needed to enhance the growth of your hair. If you are worried about hair loss, you should make sure that you are getting enough vitamin A and vitamin B.

Vitamin E is also important for hair growth, as it stimulates your intake of oxygen and helps to improve your blood circulation as well. If your blood is circulating properly, then the growth of your hair will be enhanced.

Another necessary supplement for hair growth is biotin. You can find this essential source in rice, green peas, soybeans, oats, yeast, walnuts, and sunflower seeds. It is also found with some types of shampoos as well. If you are using shampoo that contains biotin, you’ll be getting into your root tips faster, which will help to promote the growth of your hair. Even though you may be using shampoo that contains biotin, you will still need to take the necessary vitamins and supplements as well.

Vitamins and Asthma

karen21 — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 05:57:25 +0000

More than 10 million American’s throughout the United States suffer from asthma. Asthma is very common, with doctors considering it to be a new epidemic. Most Americans who suffer from asthma blame it on environmental pollution, along with the increasing exposure of toxic chemicals throughout the air. Deaths that result from asthma are on the rise, due to those who have it not recognizing the early warning signs.

The condition of asthma causes the airways in the lungs to swell, throw out thick mucus, and over time spasm. The swelling that takes place will make the airways smaller, making it difficult to breathe. The first attack from asthma that you experience may include congestion, pain, wheezing, a shortness of breath, dryness in the mouth, coughing, and a feeling as if you have a fever.

Contrary to what you may think, just about anything can result in asthma. The more common triggers of it include allergies, an upper respiratory infection, stress, over exertion in exercise, or even the lack of a proper diet. Out of all the triggers, allergies tends to be the most common.

In most cases, asthma attacks are the result of exposure to things such as smoke, pollen, gas odors, and even automotive exhaust. Foods can also trigger attacks as well, such as peanuts, corn, chocolate, and almost all dairy products. If you take any type of antibiotics, tranquilizers, or hormones, it may prompt asthma. Asthma is a serious and somewhat annoying condition, one that millions of us face on a daily basis.

There are several mineral, vitamin, and herbal supplements that you can take to treat asthma. Amonst those that you can take, vitamin B is among the most important. Vitamin B maintains a biochemical balance in the body and it can also reduce the severity of the attacks. If you take vitamin A and E together, they can work to protect your lungs against air pollution. You can also take large doses of vitamin C as well, as it is very effective in fighting asthma.

Gingko biloba is effective as well, as it will enhance your breathing and help with your bronchial reactions. Odor-less garlic is another great choice, as it contains an anti-inflammatory agent that will reduce your chances of an attack. Throughout the world of vitamins and supplements, there are many different things that you can take to fight back against asthma.

Anytime that you suspect you may have asthma, you shouldn’t hesitate to go to your doctor and be tested for it as soon as possible. Your doctor will be able to tell you if you have it, and how severe it may be. In the meantime, you should avoid known triggers and be sure that you are eating a high protein diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. You should also eat a few meals throughout the day, instead of sticking with the three most common meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

As a whole, asthma can be very stressful. There are ways that you can fight back and help to eliminate asthma, which is always great news. If your doctor tells you that you indeed have asthma, you should ask him any questions that come to mind, as well as his advice on what you should and shouldn’t do. Even though it may not seem like it at the time, asthma can be prevented, and it doesn’t always have to stop you from doing things you love to do. Although it may slow you down – you can always stop it.

Who Wants Overnight Weight Loss?

karen21 — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:01:49 +0000

Hey, that got your attention, didn’t it?

Well, I’m really sorry to disappoint you but there is no way to achieve overnight weight loss, unless of course you go under the knife.

You really should stop falling for the advertising headlines that are all over the place (you fell for this one…) and be absolutely sure in your mind that there is no possible way you can achieve lasting and healthy weight loss without putting in some effort. Save your money and help yourself.

The first thing to consider is not the amount of food that you eat but the type of food that you eat. If you ate only healthy, natural food you would not be searching for the next magic diet. So, it would be fair to assume that you eat more than your share of unhealthy stuff like processed food, fast foods, convenience supermarket meals, sweet stuff etc. Next you need to know that although there is no quick fix but there is a simple solution.

Empty your cupboards and refrigerator of everything that you know is not the healthy option. Throw everything in the garbage and go shopping.
Only buy fresh food. Vegetables, fruit, nuts, lean meat, fish – you know what healthy stuff is – you don’t need me to tell you.
Eat before you shop, a hungry shopper is a prolific shopper. You are tempted to buy much more than you would if you had just had a meal.
Until you have got used to the new eating habits, don’t be tempted to eat out. Prepare and cook your own food, take your lunch to work and remember to include some healthy snacks so you won’t feel the need to have a candy bar mid morning.
If your lifestyle allows it, you should try and eat at least five smaller meals a day, use a smaller plate so your brain registers a full plate not a tiny bit of food on a huge dinner plate. By eating five meals spaced throughout your day, it will help prevent your blood sugar levels from dropping and making you feel lethargic.
Don’t eat after about 9pm. This will help your body to enjoy a good night’s sleep without it having to work too hard at digesting a huge supper.
Drink more water than you normally would. Preventing your body from becoming dehydrated is important.
Begin gentle exercise. Walking is a great form of exercise that everyone can do, it doesn’t cost anything and it will do the dog good too! Just be sure to have a good comfortable pair of shoes – there is nothing worse than sore feet. If you already walk – then walk further and faster. Try power walking – not quite jogging but very fast walking. As long as it gets your heart pumping faster, you’ll be getting fitter.

So, there you have it, your simple solution to losing weight – eat right (no need to eat less) and exercise more. If you do this consistently, you will lose weight and you will feel great too. It may not be the overnight solution that you had hoped for but you will still achieve the same thing – it will just take a little longer.

There are some good supplements available to supply all the vitamins and antioxidants that you need to keep your body in optimum health. Click Here

There are also some great supplements to help accelerate your weight loss Click Here and browse the pages.

Living the Natural Life – Vitamins and Antioxidants

karen21 — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:06:02 +0000

Moving from convenience food to fresh foods will inevitably mean that you will be spending more time in the kitchen, but what price will you put on your own and your family’s long term health? Are you willing to include more vitamins and antioxidants in your diet.

Will it be worth it – of course it will!

Now, let’s explore a little bit further.

You could purchase a good natural supplement to keep your body healthy through the change from convenience to natural foods.

A lot of the supermarket convenience foods are easy to prepare and cook. They are usually processed tins and packets, so you just need to open the packet or tin and pop into the microwave, give it a quick ‘nuke’ and hey presto – dinner’s ready. That’s OK if your only aim is to fill the stomachs of your family and yourself. But have you given any thought as to why these convenience foods are able to have such a long sell by date? They will keep for an un-naturally long time either in the cupboard or in the fridge without deteriorating because they are so deficient in living ingredients and so full of preservatives.

Fast foods are extremely popular in today’s frantic lifestyles but have you ever stopped to think about the very first fast foods? No? Well, the very first fast foods were from nature’s own larder. Nature has provided us with all the fast foods we could want in the form of vegetables, fruit, nuts, berries, herbs and spring water etc. Ok, so the hunter gatherer gig is no longer the way to go, but consider how much healthier we would be if we were to return to the diet that nature has provided for us.

Consider dining in nature’s fast food restaurant now and again. Eat a meal that consists of the things that you could go out and gather yourself if you had the time (and inclination) to. Have you ever thought how convenient these fruits and berries, herbs etc are? They are mostly within the reach of an average human, and those that aren’t easily reachable usually drop to the ground when they are ripe and ready to eat. How convenient is that?

If you think it is time to make some changes in the way you eat, here are a few easy things to substitute to make your everyday diet just a little healthier.

Sweet Fruit Yoghurts to Natural Yoghurt with fresh fruit added
Ice Cream to Natural Yoghurt with fresh fruit, frozen
Breakfast Cereals to Porridge Oats
White Bread to Wholemeal Bread
White Pasta to Wholemeal Pasta
Sweet snacks to Vegetable or fruit pieces
All Soda to Fresh fruit juice with added sparkling water
Tea and Coffee to Herbal Teas or decaffeinated tea or coffee

Another great idea is to substitute at least one of your daily meals for raw foods – you can eat as much as you like as well. There are lots of things to choose from like raw bean-sprouts, peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, beetroot, apples, pears, cucumber, celery, and so on. If you just change your eating habits a little at a time, you will soon begin to notice the benefits and you will begin to feel great!

For great weight loss products check out Vitamins and Antioxidants Etc