Alli Weight-Loss Pill, Does It Work?

Is Alli the answer to your weight-loss woes? A Mayo Clinic doctor discusses the strength of Alli, an over-the-counter weight-loss nutrition.

Other drug is accessible to aid your weight-loss efforts, but this moment you don't need a prescription. Alli (pronounced AL-eye) is meant for obesity adults who are struggling to shed unneeded pounds. With its unproblematic way and weight-loss promises, is Alli your reply to losing weight permanently?

Here, Donald Hensrud, M.D., a protective medicine and nutrition specialist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., answers popular questions about Alli.

What is Alli?

Alli is the reduced-strength type of orlistat (Xenical), a prescription drug to handle fat. It's approved for over-the-counter selling to obesity adults 18 years and senior. Alli is meant to be utilized in conjunction with a low-calorie, low-fat diet and frequent exercising.

How does Alli operate?

Alli p romotes unit release by decreasing absorption of fat by the intestines, which reduces the size of calories you absorb.

Lipase, an enzyme constitute in the digestive biome, helps breaking downwardly dietary fat into small components, so it can be used or stored for energy. Alli works by disabling lipase, which prevents the enzyme from breaking downwards the fat while it's in your digestive tract. The undigested fat continues through the intestines and is eliminated through gut movements.

Alli is taken with fat-containing meals, up to 3 times a day. Because of how Alli mechanism, it's recommended that you eat no more than 15 grams of fat with each nutrition. Feeding higher amounts of fat can create unwanted effects, such as imperative bowel movements, diarrhea and gas with oily dirtying.

How much units could I lose using Alli?

Alli can assist you lose weight, but the coefficient decline probable won't be large - perhaps just a few p ounds more than you would lose with diet and workout incomparable. Only a small size of studies have evaluated the effectualness of Alli. And more of the weight-loss estimates are based on studies conducted on its prescription-strength duplicate, Xenical.

The amount unit decline for prescription-strength Xenical is discreet - about 6 pounds greater than diet and practise alone after one twelvemonth. So at half the strength, Alli could conceivably result in an number of 3 pounds destroyed in a twelvemonth in addition to the roughly 8 pounds you could await to lose from diet and drill alone.

When shouldn't I take Alli?

  • You shouldn't require Alli if you:
  • Are at a healthy weight
  • Are taking cyclosporine
  • Hold had an organ transplantation
  • Make problems absorbing substance

The treatment also may expose risks for anyone who takes blood-thinning medicament or has diabetes or endocrine disease .

Orlistat decreases the absorption of certain fat-soluble vitamins - for illustration, vitamins A, D and E. If you're taking Alli, you require to have a daily vitamin supplement (at a time different from when you take Alli) to prevent potential nutrient deficiencies.

How far do I demand to take Alli?

According to the business, most weight loss occurs within the early six months. Numerous people who take medications to decrease weight get the weight they lost when they terminate taking the drug. Hence, to maintain the weight off, some people continue taking medications indefinitely along with consumption a low-calorie diet and exercising regularly.

How does Alli fit into a healthy weight-loss project?

As you consider Alli as a weight-loss aid, make sure that you achieve every effort to workout, alter your feeding habits and alter any other manner factors that have contributed to your extra weight. Alli isn' t the comfortable resolution to weight loss and is meant only to supplement - not replace - a fit diet and frequent practice.

Use with your  to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of Alli or any different weight-loss drugs. As a team, you can create the most effective weight-loss plan for you.

 

What Is Triggering Your Crohns Symptoms?

Those with Crohn's disease know how blissful a period of remission feels, and how they will do anything to avoid activities or actions that might trigger inflammation and a return of unwanted crohn s symptoms.

Almost all of the Crohn s symptoms you might have are due to this inflammation. If that can be avoided, you may see a reduction in the number of flare-ups that you have to endure. Most of this inflammation occurs within in the intestines, and that might lead you to believe that the foods you eat are triggers. This is only partly true. Though none of these triggers are proven, there are many who believe them to be true. Research is ongoing.

One commonly held belief is that bacteria can cause a flare up of inflammation. There is always bacteria in the digestive system, as many actually aid in digestion of foods and liquids. However, there are some foods that create excess bacteria when they are digested, and milk is one that is said to be a t rigger. When people who are lactose intolerant ingest milk the bacteria produced can be overabundant. However, it is thought that it only takes one initial contact with the excess bacteria to cause a reaction, and even if you remove that trigger, reactions can still occur later down the road.

Stress is another trigger that a lot of sufferers regard as one of their biggest problems. There is no scientific evidence to back that up, but many swear it. However, it is not a cause of Crohn's as many believe, but reducing stress can help reduce flare-ups of Crohn's symptoms.

There has been research that suggests stress can lower the body's immunity. You may already know that Crohn's is an autoimmune disease, so it makes sense that stress could be a trigger. It would also make sense that you should learn to reduce your stresses, and find ways to cope when things are out of hand. Breathing techniques might be great tools for when you are feeling overwhelmed with stress.

There are other items that we ingest that might trigger the inflammation that causes symptoms. Some believe that both antibiotics and NSAIDs are common problems. Antibiotics are often needed to treat infections, and that makes them hard to avoid. NSAIDs like ibuprofen are easier to avoid if they are triggers for you. One of the most agreed upon environmental triggers is smoking. If you smoke, you should quit. You should also avoid being in an enclosed area with someone who smokes so you aren't getting it second hand.

Though these triggers are not completely accepted, many believe they are big problems. There is also research that indicates there may be a defective gene that can trigger Crohn's in some people. This has been reported on the Mayo Clinic's website, and even though the research is on going, they say this is a promising sign in the search for a cure.

If you think your Crohn s symptoms are being triggered by cer tain things, you should eliminate those items or actions from your life to see if improvements are made to your symptoms.

CoQIO And Its Role In The Fight Against Autism

Many of the treatments used to manage and supposedly treat autism are usually labeled as part of alternative medications. As the name suggest, alternative medicines are not part of the mainstream drugs largely sold in pharmacies. A number of the medications suggested by sectors and organizations such as the Autism Research Institute mostly prescribe alternative medications to autism patients, mainly because their treatments are not acknowledged by mainstream doctors. Of course, this does not mean that these alternative medications are not effective. After all, alternative medication has been used for hundreds of years already. The fact that it is not recognized should be hinder a person from taking alternative medications, especially if these alternative medications have a number of researches and studies backing it up.

One of the alternative medications currently used to fight autism is the coQ10, also known as the Coenzyme Q10. It is a oil-soluble vitamin-li ke substance that has the ability to act as an antioxidant in the body, hence its use as a dietary supplement. The Mayo Clinic says that the Coenzyme Q10 is recommended for a number of conditions, it is also still under research in some areas. For instance, it is an acknowledged medication for mitochondrial disorders and for its benefits for people with congestive heart failure. Most recently, it has also been attached to the treatment of brain disorders and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's due to its beneficial effects on the human brain. It has been observed that people suffering from Parkinson's disease have low levels of this enzyme. The same was observed among autism patient; this wasn't surprising at all since autistic children also have low levels of antioxidants to begin.

How can the coenzyme Q10 work for autistic patients?

Since it works as an antioxidant, the CoQ10 protects the brain from free radicals. This is the main purpo se of antioxidants, and this is how many say the autism symptoms can be prevented. To understand this further, it is important to note how free radicals come to exist in the body. Free radicals are created through the oxidation process in the body. During oxidation, these toxins-also called free radicals-are created, damaging certain parts of the body such as the brain, among others. Antioxidants such as the Coenzyme Q10 delays or prevents the oxidation in the body, hence preventing the creation of free radicals. When these free radicals are left inside the body, they can further damage the brain of an autistic child. Whether this is the cause of autism or merely an effect is still being discussed. Nonetheless, what is known is that these free radicals can harm children with autism; and they need CoQ10 supplements since, as mentioned earlier, they have very low levels of this enzyme.

Of course, interested parties should always note that the Coenzyme Q10 is an al ternative medicine. With this, it means its effects are not yet fully tested. To be sure, no negative effects can be caused by the use of this medication. But just the same, the use of Coenzyme Q10 is furthering the progress of autism treatments.

BarryĆ¢€™s 5 Anti-Depression Suggestions

 

 

Ok, we all sometimes have a "case of the Mondays," where you're just sooooo not in the mood for your everyday life and the weight of the world is on your shoulders, killing your neck and giving you a headache in the process. The last thing you want to do is exercise, however, the best way to feel better when you're feeling down is to get your heart rate up!

Of course, there is a big difference between just being down and depression. While you should always consult your doctor on serious matters including depression, here are a few Barry's Bootcamp suggestions to combating the blues – no matter who you are.

The main things we want to do are to maintain healthy levels of serotonin (the feel-good neurotransmitter) and release endorphins (the pain-killer neurotransmitter), as well as adopt an optimistic outlook on life.

So, here are my 5 anti-depressants. Take at least two and call me in the morning. That's an order!

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  • You are what you eat: Oh, is this true! So why would you want to put anything into your body that you wouldn't want to be?
  • Our body cannot produce tryptophan which is converted into serotonin, so eating foods rich in this amino acid is your best bet!

    Here are several foods containing great amounts of tryptopha; chicken, sardines, turkey, salmon, fresh tuna, nuts, sunflower seeds, bananas, pineapple, tofu, spinach, chicken, asparagus and cottage cheese may help you feel good.

    1. Work it out: exercise not only is good for your physical health, but also for your mental health. After all, it makes you feel like you've accomplished a goal, makes you sleep better and can boost self esteem.

    According to the Mayo Clinic website, there is a correlation between exercise and depression:

                Some evidence suggests that exercise raises the levels of certain mood-enhanc ing neurotransmitters in the brain. Exercise may also boost feel-good endorphins, release muscle tension, help you sleep better, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases body temperature, which may have calming effects. All of these changes in your mind and body can improve such symptoms as sadness, anxiety, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger, self-doubt and hopelessness.

    Also, read my blog about keeping an energy high going all day; http://community.barrysbootcamp.com/Post/Energy-High/033F1FFFF009D11EF000800BBAEA6

    So, don't waste any more time in bed – go for a walk outside and take a look at the big beautiful world around you, or at least do your Barry's Bootcamp inside with a soothing aromatherapy candle and then a relaxing bath. Oh Colon, take us away!

     

    1. Get by with a little help with your friends: it is amazing what our support system can do for us; our loved ones, our friends, even our dogs (seriously, they can pick up on when we're feeling down), and there is a whole community of people who need each other's support and give it freely. That community is the Barry's Bootcamp Community page on barrysbootcamp.com.

    Anyone can sign up, even if you do not own a Barry's Bootcamp system (and why don't you, ahem?), and join others in discussing the triumphs and tribulations in reaching their fitness goals. Commiserate with the lucky few who only need to lose a little weight but find it hard to keep up the motivation. Celebrate with the fast food junkie who has never worked out and cannot even read the scale as he takes the first steps toward changing his life. Be inspired by the mother of seven who after her baby died decided to get in shape so she could live to see her other kids graduate college.

    Our community page is made up of an extraordinary group of people who understand that life is precious and we owe it to ourselves to make the most of it.

    Stop by today and feel better about tomorrow.

     

    1. Just breathe: you've been told this all your life. Take a deep breath. Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale, you can't help but feel more relaxed, more centered.

    Well, there is definitely truth to proper breathing in all exercising; especially yoga (read my blog about breathing http://community.mybarrysbootcamp.com/Post/Just-Breathe/033F1FFFF009D11EF000800BA22F8). And there is also definitely truth in combating depression with breathing.

    Here are a few b reathing exercises to try

    • At any time: Inhale for a count of 5, exhale for a count of 5. repeat 5 times.
    • In a stressful moment: Inhale for a count of 10. Exhale for a count of 5. Repeat 3 times.
    • In a moment of anger: Take 10 deep breaths, allowing inhale/exhale to happen naturally.
    • To loosen up: Inhale an dexhale evenly while stretching: let head hang from neck, stretch arms over head and behind back. Stand and stretch side to side and then twist at the waist. Bend knee and grab toes from behind the back-stretching the thighs, followed by hamstring stretches. Finally, shake out each part of the body.
    • Yawn- it will happen naturally during breathing - allowing for even more oxygen to travel to the brain.

     

    1. Don't Worry Be Happy: Ok, it's hard to be happy all the time, but taking time to be happy is key.

    While there are a gazillion self-help books, methods and support groups, you only need one to get you going on a happy path of self discovery and contentment. It will take some time to narrow down what kind of book is right for you, but start with this:

    • Make a list of 5 things you want to change in your life – anything from financial security to finding love to becoming more confident. List these 1 to 5 with 1 being most important. Now take your top two and write three bullet points of exactly what you want regarding the issue. For instance; #1 Find a new job. Your bullet points can be: why do you keep getting the same kind of jobs, finding the courage to start a new business, is going back to school the right choice. Now that you know the questions that need solutions you can research books that offer the answers.
    • Anyone can benefit from simple creative exploration – you will be surprised how much you can discover about yourself when you open your creative mind's eye. A great hands on book is The Artist's Way Workbook – bestselling author Julia Cameron takes you on a journey into your untapped unconscious –releasing your true life's ambition and purpose through writing every morning, taking yourself on artist's dates and weekly tasks. Do this 12 week program along with your Barry's Bootcamp routine and see how good your body and soul look at the end.
    • Make a list as long as it needs to be of all the good things in your life and another of all the bad. See which list is longer. Either way, post the good list where you can see it and take the bad list and start finding solutions so you can start crossing them off.
    • Remember that bad things happen and we often do not have much control over them, which is why it is so important to focus on the things we can control and make positive changes. You'll be amazed how other things start to evolve and "fix themselves" when you're consciously fixing other things. Get in shape and your finances may, too. After all, if you're feeling better you're probably working better and then that promotion is yours!

     

    Oh, most important than all else on this list – get some good sleep! It is proven that we need to dream for our physical, mental and especially emotional health. Plus, if you have a problem that needs a solution, "sleeping on it" is your best way to find the answer – the opposite of brainstorming, it is brain calming – allowing your unconscious to tap in and give the true answer.

     

     

     

    A Magic Pill of Our Own Making

    We've all seen those commercials on TV that warn of "stubborn belly fat" brought on by too much stress. The pills being hawked on these programs promise to block the stress hormone, cortisol.

    Ever wonder if there's any truth to what they're saying?

    Can women really get fat from being stressed? If you were to go without eating for an entire day, but were stressed out the entire time, does that mean you'd GAIN WEIGHT?

    Sounds preposterous. But it's TRUE!

    The Truth
                 Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland in your adrenal cortex. It's your body's modern-day answer to the "fight or flight" responses we had in reaction to stress (back when we were true hunters and gatherers).

    Cortisol:

    -          Increases blood pressure and blood sugar

    -          Breaks down lipids and proteins (in case you'd rather 'fight' than � ��flight')

    -          Acts as a water diuretic hormone (leading to dehydration)

    -          Physically eats away at the pleasure centers of the brain (producers of norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine)

          So cortisol DOES exist and is indeed harmful to the body if left unchecked.

    When do you feel stressed?
                Studies have shown that most women are more stressed than they truly know. In today's modern economy, where women are becoming more likely to branch out on their own and start their own businesses, female entrepreneurs are often faced with multiple stress levels:

    Child care, household finances, peace of mind, shared financial obligations with the spouse, and other such obstacles are creating more stress for women who own businesses.

    Some symptoms of stress include:

     

    trouble sleeping
    headaches
    constipation
    diar rhea
    irritability
    lack of energy
    lack of concentration |
    eating too much or not at all
    anger
    sadness
    higher risk of asthma and arthritis flare-ups
    tension
    stomach cramping
    stomach bloating
    skin problems, like hives
    depression
    anxiety
    weight gain or loss
    heart problems
    high blood pressure
    irritable bowel syndrome
    diabetes
    neck and/or back pain
    less sexual desire
    harder to get pregnant

     


    Before You Buy a Magic Pill
                 Don't place your order with the number on the bottom of your screen just yet…there's a catch (isn't there always?)

    Most of these pills rely on dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a natural steroid hormone with calming affects on the central nervous system.

    Possible Side Effects of DHEA:
                  According to the Mayo Cli nic's website (mayoclinic.com), possible side effects include, but are not limited to:

    -          Nausea

    -          Abdominal discomfort

    -          Fatigue

    -          Nasal congestion

    -          Headache

    -          Acne

    -          Rapid/Irregular heartbeats.

    But Wait, There's More!
                   Straight from Mayoclinic.com: "In women, the most common side effects are abnormal menses, emotional changes, headache, and insomnia. Individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots or hypercoagulability, and those with a history of liver disease should avoid DHEA supplements.

    Because DHEA is a hormone related to other male and female hormones, there may be side effects related to its hormonal activities. For example, masculinization may occur in women, including acne, greasy skin, facial hair, hair loss, increased sweating, weight gain around the waist, or a deeper voice. Other hormonal-related side effects may include increased blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, altered cholesterol levels, altered thyroid hormone levels, and altered adrenal function. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, or other endocrine (hormonal) abnormalities. Serum glucose, cholesterol and thyroid levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication adjustments may be necessary.

    In theory, DHEA may increase the risk of developing prostate, breast, or ovarian cancer. DHEA may contribute to tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer. Other side effects may include insomnia, agitation, delusions, mania, nervousness, irritability, or psychosis.

    High DHEA levels have been correlated with Cushing's syndrome, which may be caused by excessive supplementation." (Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dhea/NS_patient-dhea, Copyright 2008)

    In easy to understand terms…that's turning women into men! And since when is CANCER a good trade-off for losing weight?

    What Does It All Mean?
                Numero Uno – There's no 'magic pill' that will get rid of the stress and block cortisol (without killing you in the process).

    So what can you do to relieve stress, build antibodies, and get rid of fat all at the same time WITHOUT taking hours out of your day to drive to the gym, workout, shower, and get on with your life?

    The Women's Guide to Handling Stress
    Step 1: Stretch
    There's nothing like a good, fifteen minute total-body workout that focuses on muscle toning and deep breathing to relinquish stress a nd help you lose weight – I'm talking about YOGA!  And let's face it, you've never seen a woman look like a muscle-y linebacker when she's finished with her yoga session, have you? Who wants to risk even more with hidden dietary nightmares in a pill?

    Step 2: Make time for yourself
    As women, we tend to "tend and befriend", to focus on the needs of everyone else around us rather than our immediate issues. We feel "mommy guilt" for taking time to grow a business rather than put a band-aid on a booboo. In the evenings, I schedule bath time for myself. Bubbles, a good book (I recommend Healthy Selfishness by Drs. Rachael and Richard Heller), and I'm in heaven! Other "you time" can include scrapbooking, working on cars, sewing, candlemaking, or anything that will allow you an escape. Heck, even a good movie will work!

    Step 3: Take care of yourself
    You can't very well be of any use to others if yo u don't take care of you! Getting proper nutrition, sleep, and exercising regularly (or at least, when you can) will make all the difference in the world in your energy levels, overall health, and even mental acuity!

    Step 4: Talk to your friends
    Often times, the women you surround yourself with (the like-minded ones) can be so therapeutic. Coffee and my best girlfriend are a recipe for laughter, destressing, and make for one relaxing morning.

    And finally…

    Step 5: Don't be afraid to be emotional!
    Picking your battles can be the fastest route to a stress-free environment. Most female entrepreneurs (myself included) find that when something doesn't go our way, we rely more on our emotions than we should.

    But that's what's so great about being a woman! Sometimes, a good cry is all it takes to get rid of whatever I'm trying to hold back. Then I can wipe away the tears and get back to my day. Sometimes, I just w anna yell. I do, feel better, and get back to what I'm doing.

    Whatever you do to eliminate stress in your life, do so with the knowledge that you're not only contributing to your overall health, but you might actually be losing weight in the process!

    How Stress Makes Women Fat (and How to Get Rid of Both!)

    We've all seen those commercials on TV that warn of "stubborn belly fat" brought on by too much stress. The pills being hawked on these programs promise to block the stress hormone, cortisol.

    Ever wonder if there's any truth to what they're saying?

    The Truth
                 Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland in your adrenal cortex. It's your body's modern-day answer to the "fight or flight" responses we had to stress (back when we were true hunters and gatherers).

    Cortisol:

    -          Increases blood pressure and blood sugar

    -          Breaks down lipids and proteins (in case you'd rather 'fight' than 'flight')

    -          Acts as a water diuretic hormone (leading to dehydration)

    -          Physically eats away at the pleasure centers of the brain (producers of norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine)

    So cortisol DOES exist and is indeed harmful to the body if left unchecked.

    Before You Buy a Pill
                 Don't place your order with the number on the bottom of your screen just yet…there's a catch (isn't there always?)

    Most of these pills rely on dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a natural steroid hormone with calming affects on the central nervous system.

    Possible Side Effects of DHEA:
                  According to the Mayo Clinic's website (mayoclinic.com), possible side effects include, but are not limited to:

    -          Nausea

    -          Abdominal discomfort

    -          Fatigue

    -          Nasal congestion

    -          Headache

    -          Acne

    -          Rapid/Irregular heartbeats.

    But Wait, There's More!
        � �          Straight from Mayoclinic.com: "In women, the most common side effects are abnormal menses, emotional changes, headache, and insomnia. Individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots or hypercoagulability, and those with a history of liver disease should avoid DHEA supplements.

     

    Because DHEA is a hormone related to other male and female hormones, there may be side effects related to its hormonal activities. For example, masculinization may occur in women, including acne, greasy skin, facial hair, hair loss, increased sweating, weight gain around the waist, or a deeper voice. Likewise, men may develop more prominent breasts (gynecomastia), breast tenderness, increased blood pressure, testicular wasting, or increased aggressiveness. Other hormonal-related side effects may include increased blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, altered cholesterol levels, altered thyroid hormone levels, and altered adrenal function. Cauti on is advised in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, or other endocrine (hormonal) abnormalities. Serum glucose, cholesterol and thyroid levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication adjustments may be necessary.

    In theory, DHEA may increase the risk of developing prostate, breast, or ovarian cancer. DHEA may contribute to tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer. Other side effects may include insomnia, agitation, delusions, mania, nervousness, irritability, or psychosis.

    High DHEA levels have been correlated with Cushing's syndrome, which may be caused by excessive supplementation." (Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dhea/NS_patient-dhea, Copyright 2008)

    In easy to understand terms…that's turning women into men and vice versa! And since when is CANCER a good trade-off for losing weight?

    What Does It All Mean?
                Numero Uno – There's no 'magic pill' that will get rid of the stress and block cortisol (without killing you in the process).

    So what can you do to relieve stress, build antibodies, and get rid of fat all at the same time WITHOUT taking hours out of your day to drive to the gym, workout, shower, and get on with your life?

    My solution: Yoga.

    There's nothing like a good, fifteen minute total-body workout that focuses on muscle toning and deep breathing to relinquish stress and help you lose weight!  And let's face it, you've never seen a woman look like a muscle-y linebacker when she's finished with her yoga session, have you? Who wants to risk even more with hidden dietary nightmares in a pill?

    Imagine stress-free bill paying, calmly telling the kids to sit down for the tw entieth time, and picking up your husband's dirty socks from the middle of the floor (yet again) with tranquility.

    Your own living room suddenly becomes your spa!

    Use yoga to remove the stress from all of your daily activities, and you can face each day with more energy, more time, and more LIFE!

    Rachel D. Young is a certified Fitness Trainer and Editor-in-chief of Beautiful Curves, a monthly newsletter full of recipes, exercise, and motivational materials centered around how women can easily become healthy and beautiful, naturally and quickly. Learn more about her at www.RachelDYoung.com

    A Look At Cosmetic Surgery

    Cosmetic and plastic surgery has long been associated with vanity, but mounting evidence suggests that in many cases cosmetic surgery can offer substantial health benefits. Nose jobs can offer real health benefits in addition to improving the symmetry of the face. Face lifts have been shown to increase life expectancy. And eyelid surgery can create significant vision benefits for some people. All of these examples show the lines between aesthetics and real health benefits can blur when examining plastic surgery procedures.

    Rhinoplasty, or nose jobs have health benefits beyond the aesthetic appeals of the procedure. In many cases, rhinoplasty can substantially improve breathing difficulties. In cases where people have broken their nose, the cartilage can become constricted, creating breathing problems. Rhinoplasty can alleviate this, along with snoring problems associated with constricted nasal passages. Many people who have persistent sinus problems have remedi ed the issue with rhinoplasty.

    Face lifts have long been considered a purely cosmetic procedure for people to fight the effects of aging. However, evidence shows that face lifts actually can have health benefits. A study performed at the Mayo clinic reviewed data from 250 women who had undergone face lifts in the '70s. The data showed that on average, women who received face lifts outlived their counterparts in the general population by 10 years. The self esteem factors attributed to looking and feeling younger as a result of the face lift are cited as possible reasons why these patients lived longer.

    Eyelid surgery known as blepharoplasty is a procedure to remove fat--usually along with excess skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. While the procedure does have cosmetic benefits, it can also provide real health benefits to those who have vision problems caused by excess skin around the eyelids.

    Gastric Bypass surgery, while not often considered "cosmetic surgery" can be viewed as a surgery to improve appearances. Like liposuction, it reduces an individual's weight through surgical means. However, the health benefits of losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight are well documented and accepted. Losing weight is a perfect example of how health benefits and aesthetic benefits can both result from the same surgical procedures.

    Most who have significant dental problems will view fixing those problems as a mandatory concern. Braces were once considered strange, but now are commonplace. People who lose teeth in accidents don't think twice about the vanity associated with replacing those teeth. Indeed, they argue that replacing broken or lost teeth is necessary for healthy eating function, as well as restoring appearance. Improving speech through dentistry has been long accepted for its benefits, and without the taboos associated with many cosmetic surgery procedures.

    Cosmetic surgery is not just for vain people who want to improve their aesthetic appeal. In many cases, the real benefits of cosmetic surgery make the aesthetic improvements just an added bonus when compared to the health benefits the procedures can provide. As cosmetic surgery becomes more common, the lines between purely cosmetic and self esteem benefits and real measurable health benefits will increasingly blur. As the health benefits of cosmetic surgery become more apparent and documented, the acceptance of the procedures by the public at large will continue to climb.

    Stress in the work place

    No doubt, if we want to feel stressed we the candy machine or down one to assault half litre ice. We feel natural immediate satisfaction because of the Endorphine be released "feel good" when we calls for something which we love but new research results confirm eat these foods caused by more than Endorphine.

    Elissa epel, PhD, health psychology researcher at the University of California at San Francisco explained that, if we are stressed a hormone cortisol is released, which may increase appetite us specifically for sweets. Also the ongoing stress more we have one day as an exacting task can Cortisolspiegel can deposits of fat in the abdominal area and the whole time lead to increased deeply know from which, facilitate increased health risks.

    Click to Get New ACCELERATED Fat Burning System

    Stress characterized a fight-or-flight response by an increased heart rate, increased respiratory increased blood pressure and a 300-400 % in amount of blood, our muscles which prepares to run us or in flight. Unfortunately, in today's world we have not run nor have we escape. But the adrenalin and other hormones during this process published to produce a series of symptoms, ua: • fear • depression • excess anger and hostility • high blood pressure • insomnia (insomnia) • racing heart • risk factor for heart attack • are fatigue which commonly use behaviors that people deal with the symptoms of stress: • critical attitude towards other • excessive use of alcohol • compulsive • inability, things to • do smoking as you see the most common management strategies are hardly healthy or positive decisions. One problem is that many of the "healthy" to do decisions such as sports, yoga, meditation and not easy to during working hours. What is easy this is " Reese's Peanut Butter Cup calls for you every time when they the dispenser." But stop! There is a choice to relieve stress at work. Deep breathing can help you to obtain the additional stress of working day.
    Deep breathing can help you, relax by lowering your blood pressure slowing the heart rate and a relaxation of the Muskelspannung and the best part is, can it to do at your desk. The Mayo Clinic women's Healthsource provides directions for the deep breathing practice.

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    * Contact in a comfortable chair, feet flat on the floor.

    * Close your eyes and concentrate on an object in space.

    * Breathe slowly through the nose. You your diaphragm move down visualize, expand more space for your lungs to create.

    * Note your belly to ex pand how it populates with air * if your lungs are full, air can slowly through the mouth.

    * You as often as you need refresh. Be sure that you your spirit of concern list deletes that existed before.

    If you are ready to end your session chair spring from your. Slowly bring themselves back in your environment.

    Regularly practice deep breathing can save large health rewards such as the reduction of fear, energy, improve sleep, improve concentration and muscle tension to resolve type. Dealing with stress in a healthy way help, avoid the stress can temptations of the machine, so you can manage your health and your weight with success.

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    Resveratrol Select

    Resveratrol Select

    Reservatrol Select can help you look and feel younger today!  Resveratrol Select helps enhance your body's cell function enabling you to lose weight and burn fat faster.  Resveratrol Select will also help boost your energy levels.

    What The Experts Say About Resveratrol Select...

    For years, people have been marveling at extended life expectancies of Europeans who drink red wine daily. Now the secret has been uncovered. Resveratrol has been at the center of ground-breaking anti-aging research and more recently, has been provided in a purified form for daily consumption.

    Resveratrol Select Key Ingredients:

    We've added other natural ingredients selected to enhance cell function, help you maintain a healthy weight, and feel great.

    Chromium: A niacin-based mineral that plays an important role in how the body uses insulin to burn sugars, carbs, fats, and proteins for energy.

    Green Tea Leaf Extract: You've heard of the health benefits of drinking Green Tea. The antioxidant-rich catechins in green tea extract may help you also.

    What Does Resveratrol Select Mean for You?

    If you would like to help improve your cardiovascular function, support healthier glucose levels, and burn more fat, we've created an improved formula that gives you EVEN MORE benefits than resveratrol alone.

    Couldn't I just drink wine you ask?

    Sure, if you want the alcohol and extra calories and carbohydrates. The truth is, a glass of wine only has about .30 milligrams of resveratrol; you would have to drink 200 glasses of wine to get the same resveratrol content health benefits of just one Resveratrol Select capsule!

    Resveratrol In the News

    Harvard University: "...the biggest medical discovery since antibiotics!"

    Mayo Clinic: "Resveratrol Select...has promising hea rt-healthy benefits"

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    Please visit the Offiicial Resveratrol Select Website Today to Learn More!


    Real Weight Loss Help. Real Weight Loss Answers

    A lot of weight loss products offer to help increase your metabolism to help you lose weight. But why? What is it about metabolism that helps us lose weight? Does it really help us lose weight faster? Can you really increase your metabolism?

    Metabolism is simply the way your body burns calories. Some factors can influence your metabolism including sex, age, and body size. But can you do anything to increase your metabolism?

    To answer some of those questions, here is some research for authorities on weight loss and weight management to give you the straight facts on metabolism.

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    Question: Do slim people have a higher metabolism while larger people have a slower metabolism?
    Answer: No. According to the Mayo Clinic, metabolism is not determined by your weight. Metabolism is the engine that burns the calories and regulates your body's energy needs. Your weight is determined by the calories you consume less the calories you burn. So a large person that consumes a large amount of calories can still have a high metabolism that is keeping them from gaining more weight.

    Question: Do overweight people always have a lower metabolism?

    Answer: No. It is very uncommon for excessive weight to be caused by a lower metabolism. However, if someone thinks that is the case, they should be evaluated by a doctor for conditions such as hyperthyroidism.

    Question: Will exercise increase your metabolism?

    Answer: Yes. Adding in exercise to your daily regime will increase your metabolism. As you increase your muscle from exercises like strength training and aerobic exercise, you will build muscle. Muscle burns more calories that fat, thereby increasing your metabolism. Don't depend on trips to the gym or laps around the neighborhood. Find other ways to have extra movement throughout your day: walk the stairs instead of taking the elevator, garden, wash you car, and clean the house. That will increase the amount of calories you burn and increase the muscle you build.

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    Question: Should I skip a meal to increase my metabolism?

    Answer: No. By skipping a meal, your body feels like it is in starvation mode and will use your muscle for fuel and slows your metabolism. Since muscle helps to increase your metabolism, losing any muscle is not the answer. You should try to eat 6 small meals per day so your body does not feel like you are starving, causing it to switch directions and use muscle for fuel and slow down metabolism to make sure it stores the calories already there. Make sure to eat healthy, protein based meals. Eating by the USDA's food pyramid is still a healthy way to manage what you eat each day. They have altered the old fashion model with 12 separate models for you to choose from using activity level and food intake as guides. You can see the new suggestions at online at the USDA's website.

    Question: Can water increase my metabolism?

    Answer: Yes. Water is the body's most important nutrient. Without water, the liver will retain water instead of burn fat. A study by German researchers demonstrated that people that drank just over 16 ounces of water had a 30 percent higher calorie burn rate than their resting metabolic rate. They concluded that drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day--the generally recommended amount--can burn off almost 35,000 calories a year, or about 10 pounds (source Prevention magazine online).

    To answer the initial questions:< /p>

    • What is it about metabolism that helps us lose weight? Metabolism is simply the body's process of burning the calories consumed.

    • Does it really help us lose weight faster? Yes, a higher metabolism does help you burn more calories.

    • Can you really increase your metabolism? Yes, you can increase your metabolism by increasing your daily exercise and increasing the amount of water you drink.

    Do not be fooled to think you cannot lose weight because of a slow metabolism. With simple steps, you can increase your body's ability to burn calories and lose the weight!

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    Managing Diabetes Made Easier

    The management of diabetes is progressively evolving. The latest medical and technological advances-including ones involving the Internet-have begun providing the 18.2 million Americans affected by this disease with the kind of freedom few dreamed of not all that long ago.

    Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body doesn't produce or properly use insulin, a hormone needed to convert glucose into energy. Since over time the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes-the nation's fifth-leading cause of death by disease-can lead to complications of the eyes, blood vessels, nerves, kidneys and other organs, anything that would ease the typical daily regimen of insulin injections and the like would be most welcome by patients.

    According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, that "simplification" is exactly what's happening. The Food & Drug Administration, for example, is in the process of approving both insulin patches and inhalants as alternati ve delivery methods to insulin injections. Breakthroughs in blood glucose monitoring that would allow continuous testing throughout the day are currently in development.

    And then there's the Internet. Unlike in the past, the latest advances, treatment and disease management recommendations are now available on the Web sites of the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and countless others. Beyond that, people with diabetes are being helped in managing their disease through the conve-nient online ordering of necessary diabetic supplies, pharmaceuticals and equipment.

    Better Living Now manages all insurance claims and paperwork so patients don't have to. And they will contact physicians for prescription renewal and fill necessary medical orders with up to 90-day supplies. Members also receive special discounts when ordering online and can contact the company's pharmacy with questions about their medication.

    A Web site now offers all the medical supplies and medication needed to manage diabetes.

    How to Fight Fat and Win With Yoga

    Confucius said: "Men do not mirror themselves in running water - they mirror themselves in still water. Only what is still can still the stillness of other things." In our super-busy, hectic, often frantic, overworked, overburdened world, we do not take the time to be still and hear our self breathe. To inspire is to be inspired with the gift of life and possess an extraordinary sense of well being.

    With stress reaching epidemic proportions, frantic-paced overeating is becoming the fastest anti-anxiety reprieve. With the added stressers of overwhelming work schedules and the struggling demands of daily life, Americans are carrying heavier burdens and equally excessive weight. According to Sally Squires of The Washington Post - "Even our children are more obese than in any other country, tipping the scales at 4. 7 million." There are added weight loss programs, supplementary low-fat foods, a smorgasboard of diet books and yet people are gaining more weight. Wit h busy schedules and stressfull time constraints, Americans are injesting more food and less oxygen.

    The Power of Your Thoughts on your Health are Profound. Marcella Bakur Weiner, Ph.D. psychologist and Adjunct Proffessor at Marymount Manhattan College in New York affirms: "We have developed an automatic reflexive reaction: We feel stress; we turn to food. We eat and overeat. It is automatic, meaning non-thinking. We humans make choices, little ones and big ones, hundreds of times each day. Simple decisions that determine what our lives will be. And we make them in full consciousness, using our brains and hearts to do so. Our survival depends on this." "When you're in a stressfull situation, your brain goes into "fight or flight mode", signalling your body to secrete hormones that affects your organs and tissues. Susan Conrow, Physiologist and professor at Daytona Beach Community College states, "chronic stress affects every cell in our body." The power of your thoughts on your health are profound. How destructive is Chronic stress? Your heart, lungs and circulatory system are influenced by the increased heart rate. Blood flow may increase 300 - 400 percent. Blood pressure increases and breathing becomes rapid. Blood sugar rises. Your mouth and throat may become dry. Your skin may become cool and clammy because blood flow is diverted away so it can support the heart and muscle tissues. Your digestive activity shuts down. Stress can trigger heart disease Sleep disorders and yes - weight gain. When you are stressed, your body releases powerful hormones including the major stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol can cause you to crave sweets and other carbohydrate rich foods. A cycle forms. You get stressed, you eat, you gain weight. You get stressed, you eat, you gain weight. When you practice yoga breathing, you are better able to connect inner peace from your mind to every piece of your body.

    The Daytona Beach News Journal r eports "the integration of mind, body, spirit that practicing yoga encompasses helped saved Suzanne Andrews life." Her breathing techniques developed lungs physically powerful enough to sustain Suzanne through a recent near-death experience after a fatal medical miscalculation caused her pulse to stop on the operating table. Today, Andrews literally owes her life to regularly practicing and teaching therapeutic yoga. On January 5th, 2005, Andrews went in for a minor surgical procedure to unblock her sinuses. While on the operating table, she experienced an allergic reaction and her pulse stopped . Trapped between life and death, the doctors frantically performed CPR and tension filled the air as her lips, hands and feet turned an eerie blue. An ambulance was called where her near lifeless body was transported to the intensive medical care unit of Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach, Florida. Her kidneys refused to function and her veins were so constricted that doctor fa iled to get another IV into her after 3 attempts. After meditating for just 5 minutes, Suzanne Andrews kidneys began to function, her pulse strengthened and her veins opened up enough to get the lifesaving IV in. The cardiologist said, "I am an Indian Doctor and my patient is teaching me how great yoga is! Your strong lungs from Yoga really helped pull you through." The surgeon, Dr. Mirante added, " the positive attitude teachings of yoga played a major part in recovery." The Observer Newspaper notes, "Yoga had been hard on some people with disabilities until now. Suzanne Andrews teaches modified yoga classes for patients and employees. Not only has Andrews had personal experience with yoga, she has made an instructional DVD to help others." Yoga practice is at an all time high - The Yoga Journal reports that there are now 16 million people practicing yoga in the United States. Yoga may be new to us westerners, but it is over 5000 years old - and it can make you look and fee l 10 - 20 years younger.

    The Mayo Clinic September 2003 Newsletter reports, "yoga IS effective at relieving stress." According to the National Institue of Health, "regular yoga practice can help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, alter brain waves and assist you heart to work more efficiently. Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia demonstrated how just one session of yoga can lower blood levels of the stress hormone - cortisol. "Participants cortisol level were measured before and after they practiced yoga, then again before and after they sat quietly while reading or writing. After the yoga sessions, cortisol levels dropped. There was no drop after the resting sessions."

    Why is it Important to Reduce Your Abdominal Fat?

    Too much abdominal fat is a sign of obesity. And, with over 40 million Americans in the obese group we ought to be concerned. Obesity rates are, unfortunately, growing speedily in our children.  And, though obesity is a preventable condition, very few are willing to change the lifestyles that caused their obesity to become a problem.

    The Mayo Clinic indicates various complications of obesity.  Among them are blood abnormalities, cancers, depression, gallbladder diseases, gynecological problems, as well as heart disease and high blood pressure.  Many of these difficulties are predominantly the result of excess abdominal fat.

    Belly fat is unsafe, even if you're not obese. This is since belly fat differs from fat in other locations in your body. It really is the most dangerous fat on your body.  On most of the body, like the thighs and hips, fat is stored in the subcutaneous layer located near to the surface of the skin.  Fat in the abdomen largely is comprised of visceral fat surrounding the vital organs.

    Abdominal fat cells can emit hormones that go directly into internal organs like the liver.  Fat, for instance, located adjacent to the liver can drain into the liver causing a fatty liver. A fatty liver is a risk factor for insulin resistance and diabetes. Abdominal fat can inflame any of the internal organs and cause their deterioration.

    Fat cells in different parts of your body empty into the blood stream. While this is not particularly good, it does less harm than the abdominal fat cells discharging into vital organs.

    So, what is the magnitude of your belly fat problem? The ratio of your waist to hip circumference dimensions is a reliable indicator of your general health and the threat for dangers such as heart attack.  For women, the circumference of your waist divided by that around your hips should be about 0.7 for good health.  Since men have narrower hips, a ratio of arou nd 0.9 would be inclined toward good health.  If your proportions are a lot larger than these, you should look into a weight reducing plan.

    Eliminating extra belly fat is one of the major health ambitions you can have.

    Plus, the good news is that if you begin a weight reduction program, your abdominal fat is the first kind of fat you have a tendency to lose. It doesn't matter whether your shape is an "apple" or "pear," you'll drop a higher percentage of abdominal fat than fat anyplace else. And, the reason is that belly fat is more metabolically active so it's easier to lose.

    If you are earnest about losing that belly fat, here are 3 lifestyle changes you ought to adopt:

    First, adhere to a healthy diet with a smaller number calories and reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates.

    Second, engage in an aerobic exercise plan that helps burn more calories.

    Third, incorporate weight training in your overall exer cise program.  Muscles burn energy during exercise, so the more toned and fuller your muscles are, the quicker you'll be able to burn those surplus calories.

    It's healthful to reduce your abdominal fat.  You'll feel better and live longer without all that belly fat.

    Why is it Critical to Reduce Your Abdominal Fat?

    Too much abdominal fat is a sign of obesity. Moreover, with over 40 million Americans in the obese category we ought to be concerned. Obesity rates are, unfortunately, growing swiftly in our children. And, despite the fact that obesity is a preventable condition, most people continue the lifestyles that caused their obesity in the first place.

    The Mayo Clinic describes a number of physical problems associated with obesity. Among them are blood abnormalities, cancers, depression, gallbladder diseases, gynecological problems, as well as heart disease and high blood pressure. Many of these difficulties are primarily the result of excess abdominal fat.

    Belly fat is risky, even if you're not obese. This is since abdominal fat is different than fat in other areas of the body. It really is the most dangerous fat on your body. On other areas of the body, like the thighs and hips, fat is stored in the subcutaneous layer located close to the surface of the skin. Fat in the belly largely is comprised of visceral fat surrounding the vital organs.

    Belly fat cells can secrete hormones that go directly into internal organs like the liver. Fat, for instance, accumulated adjacent to the liver can drain into the liver producing a fatty liver. A fatty liver is a risk factor for insulin resistance and diabetes. Belly fat can inflame any of the internal organs and cause their deterioration.

    Fat cells in different parts of your body empty into the blood stream. While this is not especially beneficial, it does less harm than the belly fat cells draining into vital organs.

    So, what is the magnitude of your belly fat problem? The ratio of your waist to hip circumference dimensions is a reliable indicator of your general health and the threat for diseases like heart attack. For women, the circumference of your waist divided by that around your hips should be about 0.7 for good health. Since men have narr ower hips, a ratio of around 0.9 would be inclined toward good health. If your proportions are a lot larger than these, you ought to look into a weight reduction plan.

    Reducing excess abdominal fat is one of the chief health objectives you ought to have.

    Plus, the good news is that when you start a weight loss program, your abdominal fat is the first type of fat you tend to lose. It is not important if your shape is an "apple" or "pear," you'll drop a greater percentage of abdominal fat than fat anywhere else. And, the reason is that belly fat is more metabolically active so it's easier to lose.

    If you are resolute about losing that abdominal fat, here are three style of living changes you ought to adopt:

    First, follow a healthful diet with a smaller number calories and cut down on your consumption of refined carbohydrates.

    Second, engage in an aerobic workout plan that helps burn more calories.

    Th ird, incorporate weight training in your exercise program. Muscles burn energy during exercise, so the more toned and fuller your muscles are, the quicker you'll be able to burn those excess calories.

    It's healthful to lose abdominal fat. You'll feel better and live longer without all that abdominal fat.

    Fen-Phen and Phentermine

    Did you know that the infamous Fen-Phen was a combo of 2 different weight loss medicines?  Fenfluramine first came out in the 1970s, but was not popular because it only temporarily reduced weight by a few pounds.  In the 1990s when it was combined with phentermine it got heavy marketing and gained popularity.  Already in 1994, an official from Wyeth became concerned about the medication's label noting only 4 cases of pulmonary hypertension when 41 had actually been seen but no action was taken until 1996 when a study in the New England Journal of Medicine found a 23-fold increase in pulmonary hypertension.  Then in 1996, a 30 year old woman developed heart problems after only a month of using Fen-Phen and she died in February 1997.

    In July 1997, after a technician observed heart abnormalities, researchers at the Ma yo Clinic released a report on 24 cases of rare heart valve disease in women who took Fen-phen and the FDA alerted doctors that there were also 9 additional reports of the same type, and asked all health care professionals to report such cases.  66 additional reports of heart valve disease, all primarily associated with Fen-phen came in and the FDA requested that the manufacturers stress the potential risk to the heart in the drugs' labeling and in patient package inserts. The FDA continued to receive reports of cardiac valve disease in people taking the drugs.

    Luckily today, people looking to lose excess weight still have access to one of the Fen Phen ingredients which is safe, called Phentermine.  Phentermine, a blend of "phenyl-tertiary-butylamine," is approved as an appetite suppressant to help reduce weight in obese patients when used short-term and combined with exercise, diet, and behavioral modification. Phendimetrazine is used as a short-term supplement to diet and exercise in the treatment of obesity.   Phentermine first received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959 as an appetite suppressant for the short-term treatment of obesity.

    The Best Exercises for an Overweight Child

    The Best Exercises for an Overweight Child

     

    People often find my website using search phrases such as "Exercise plans for overweight children", "Exercises for obesity", or "Exercise DVD's for overweight children". So what are the best kinds of exercises for children—especially children who are overweight or lazy?  The answer is THE ONES THEY ENJOY!

     

    Exercise should be fun for kids. They are not miniature adults, but parents often want to make them follow adult-type exercise programs. Some children, especially those who are extroverts, may enjoy team sports such as soccer, football, or volleyball. Very shy children or those who are introverts may avoid exercises that involve lots of other children. If they are self-conscious about their weight or starting puberty, they may avoid any team sport where they are forced to undress in front of their peers, fearing the teasing or stares that are sure to come.

     

    The sh y child might prefer an activity where he can spend more time with a parent, such as walking, jogging, riding bikes, shooting hoops, playing catch, rollerblading, bowling, or golf. Wearing a pedometer and keeping a pedometer journal will help motivate him to be more active. Try different activities with him, and see which ones he gets excited about. If he seems to be especially passionate about an activity such as golf, tennis, or ballroom dancing, arrange for a few private lessons if you can afford it.  You may see your child start to "blossom" right before your eyes!

     

    Other activities your child might enjoy are martial arts (it teaches discipline too!), boxing, tap, ballet, or modern jazz dancing, or swimming.

     

    If you need activities for indoors, try jumping rope or a video on hip hop dancing or Tai Chi.

     

    According to a chart Exercise for weight loss: Calories burned in 1 hour on the Mayo Clinic website, the number of calories burned in 1 hour by a person weighing 160 pounds are:

     

    ·        Running – 986

    ·        Rollerblading – 913

    ·        Rope jumping or Tae Kwan do – 730

    ·        Stair treadmill – 657 (probably not much fun for a child!)

    ·        Jogging, 5mph; basketball game; football (touch, flag, general); or tennis singles-584

     

    If your child is not already active, start with about 30 minutes of mild exercise every night and gradually increase the time and intensity of the activities. Have your child keep an exercise journal, writing down the activity, time spent, and how it made him feel (smiley face or sad face). Ask why he felt sad or happy doing the activity. Listen to his concerns without passing judgment.

     

    By helping your child find physical activities he enjoys or can excel in, you are making a valuable contribution to his health and quality of life!

    How To Kick The Caffeine And Lose Weight

    Caffeine is considered the most commonly used psychoactive drug,  with nearly 80% of the world's population consuming  it on a daily basis in the form of coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, and chocolate.  While the health benefits and ills of caffeine have been hotly debated for years now, with some people saying its great and others demonizing it (and its history as a colonizing monocrop in much of S. America), caffeine has never ceased holding an uncontested place in the urban myth-dominated world of weight loss .  As a diet aid it has been added to countless weight loss shakes, pills, and even, yes, colonic cleanses. But does caffeine help shed the pounds as well as we have always assumed? It now appears that caffeine is, indeed a red herring of a weight management drug.

    For years it was assumed that it was the stimulant properties of coffee that helped people to lose weight by increasing the metabolism and supressing appetite. New studies, howeve r, have led many researchers (and the Mayo clinic in particular) to discourage caffeine as a weight loss aid. It appears that it is the diuretic properties of caffeine that play a part in 'weight loss' and that the  pounds lost are water weight and not fat. Furthermore, caffeine has actually been shown to increase appetite instead of supressing it.  Other ways that caffeine falls short as a diet aid:

    * Caffeine elevates the stress hormone cortisol, which is partly responsible for increased heart rate, blood pressure, and anxiety. Circulation of oxygen to the brain and extremities is decreased and the immune system is suppressed.In the end cortisol disrupts natural metabolism and studies have shown weight gain, especially around the abdomen in people with raised cortisol levels. Increased abdominal fat then leads to more stress hormones being released from the body…creating a viscous cycle.

    * Caffeine increases insulin resistance as part of the stress response. This can lead to diabetes and heart disease. It also raises blood glucose levels which increase appetite.

    * Caffeine puts stress on the adrenal system–one of the systems that helps detoxify the body and cleanse the blood. If the body cannot detox it is harder to effectively use the nutrients in food and eliminate properly.

    * Caffeine has been shown to lead to higher levels of serum cholesterol.

    * Getting caffeine through soft drinks floods your body with unhealthy sugars, choosing diet sodas introduces chemicals that can actually slow the metabolism, and coffee and tea can be laced with pesticides that add toxicity to the body, impeding weight loss.

    Coming from a family that kept a pot of coffee on at all hours (you never know who will stop by!) and introduced to caffeine at an early age, I fight this addiction every day of my life. But I know that cutting down on caffeine is not only good for your body, it i s good for your mind and your emotions as well–we are calmer and more focused without caffeine and our bodies and metabolisms are able to function how they are intended to, without added stress. Our energy will be more sustained, our sleep deeper and more productive, and our appetite and weight more natural. Many of us, after getting over the initial first days of caffeine addiction, realize that what we are most addicted to is the ritual of caffeine–the morning cup of coffee or tea, the lunchtime soda, the little pick-me-up treat that is our way of taking care of ourselves. We don't have to give this up! We can replace it with healthy alternatives–

    Chicory–Down in New Orleans, the coffee is made with chicory.  This root is roasted and ground as a coffee additive and substitute and has been used for hundreds of years-especially in southern Europe. Like roasted dandelion, chicory is an amazing liver tonic–enhancing both liver and gallbladder function. It also flushes the kidneys, relieves uric acid build–up, prevents urinary infections, and reduces blood sugar. It is a good substitute for coffee in that it has a nutty, roasted flavor. A great morning replacement.



    Roasted Dandelion Root– With a flavor remarkably similar to coffee, roasted dandelion is a great substitute. It is rich in trace minerals and micronutrients and rich in inulin, which can help manage diabetes. The bitterness in it is a good stimulant for digestion as well and dandelion root tea is simple to make at home, using all those pesky dandelion roots from the yard (just make sure they haven't been sprayed with pesticides!)



    Ginseng–Great as a tea with peppermint (another refreshing pick-me upper), ginseng is a great source of stamina boosting, energy enhancing wonderfulness. Ginseng is an adaptogen, which means it increases resistance to physical, chemical, and biological stress and builds energy and gen eral vitality. It is also great for the immune system.


    Yerba Mate– This South American tea is at the center of a great debate on whether or not its active compound, mateine, mimics caffeine enough to actually be called caffeine.  However, in studies, those sensitive to caffeine do not experience the side effects with mate that they do with coffee (such as jitters, headaches and heart palpitations).  Mate also contains hosts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and the ritual of preparing and drinking it can be a great one to adopt.



    The Bubbly–For those of you who are soda drinkers, sometimes it is true that it is the carbonation you most crave. Instead of imbibing on all that high fructose corn syrup, try making your own natural soda instead, with mineral water and a squeeze of citrus or a splash of fresh juice. Creating a carbonated lemonade or limeade–sweetened with stevia or agave nectar  is a great favorite of mine when I am looking for something refreshing in the afternoon. The lemons are great for detoxing your body, the sweetener is all natural, and the carbonation can really help kick the pop habit