Diets explained – The pros and cons of every possible diet

every possible diet is outlined with details of both their benefits and negatives. This brief summaries allow you to quickly grasp the ethos of each diet. There are more diets and styles of eating out there than it is imaginable. Year after year new diets sweep into the market place. I have written this article to give you a better understanding of how, why and when diets will or will not work for your body.

Definition of a diet 'working'

Many people say that a diet worked for them. What this means varies for each person. It may be they lost a few pounds or felt more energetic.

My definition of a diet working is a long term and maintained improvement in health symptoms with accompanying weight loss (or gain) if needed.

My viewpoint is losing half a stone to find you have put it on again 6 months later is not a sign of a diet working. Neither is losing 4 pounds but still suffering many negative health traits such like frequent illness, rashes, digestive pains, low energy etc.

Types of diets

I have tried to classify the major diets here but there are endless variations both within the main ones and the main types of diets so I am sure I have missed some but the information should give you a fairly clear idea of what is happening nutritionally. I have covered:

Atkins, Metabolic typing, Healthy eating, Following food cravings, Junk food diet, Average Western diet, Juicing diet, Blood type diet, Blood analysis diet, Glycemic index, Glycemic load diet, Food combination, Zone diet, Mediterranean diet, South beach diet, Low fat diets, Weight watchers

Metabolic typing diet

Uses physical, dietary and psychological traits to classify the body along fundamental systems. This allows the specific foods and nutrients to be discovered for that individual person.

Pros - Accurately determines nutritional requirement and is specific to your own body chemistry. It allows for individuals to change nutritional requirements during their lifetime as seen in the real world. Encompasses a large variation in recommendations for different people which parallels what is seen in the reality. Head and shoulders above any other nutrition system and its scientific basis and results cannot be argued.

Cons - Can be complicated and difficult to understand if following on your own and you need to use a trained advisor to get a level of analysis powerful enough to create long lasting changes

Read more

Atkins diet

Requires the person to eat greater amounts of protein through meats and to use fat liberally. Suggests obtaining carbohydrate intake from vegetables, seeds, nuts and berries. The overall effect is a high protein, high fat and low carob diet.

Pros - Suggests removing grains from the diet which can benefit most people. It ensures you obtain adequate amounts of fat soluble vitamins and promotes consuming organic foods and vegetables. Will work for certain people short term but very few on a long term basis.

Cons - It does not account for the fact that people vary greatly and a low carbohydrate intake, especially to this extent, can be disastrous. It does not separate different form of meat and vegetables. It does not allow people to change nutritional needs over their lifetime

Low fat diet / Calories restriction

Many combinations of diet follow this theme, with the main emphasis on low fat, higher carbohydrates and controlled calories. Founded frommis-interpreted fat studies in the 1950's. Forms the basis of Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig and many more diets.

Pros - Can work for some extreme metabolic types. Any recommendation to reduce trans-fats is beneficial.

Cons - Disastrous for the vast majority of the population as depletes fat soluble nutrients and increases hunger. It does not allow for individual variance between people or for changes in nutritional needs over your lifetime.

'Healthy eating diets'

As recommended by the government food pyramid and all general healthy eating guides. Is also incorporated into the popular diet schemes e.g. Weight Watchers etc

Has an emphasis on lower fat and higher carbohydrates and obtaining fruit and Vegetable in good amounts.

Pros - Any diet with emphasis on increasing vegetable intake will improve many peoples health. Eating lower fat and higher carbohydrate will work for some people's body chemistry.

Cons - Does not separate out individual differences in food requirements, meaning such recommendations can be disastrous for many people. The advice does not cater for changes in nutritional requirements during your lifetime. Grain consumption is also linked to the majority of present day health issues and thus would not be good advice, except for certain people's body chemistry.

Following your food cravings

Many people say their body knows best and thus it is only right to follow what it wants.

Pros - Works well if you are very in tune with your body and accurately following a metabolic typing diet and so would know that you are obtaining your exact nutritional needs.

Cons - Food is addictive chemically and emotionally and in 99% of cases food cravings are confused and nothing to do with nutritional needs. For example your body will crave a cigarette if you have a few, but that does not mean it is needed. The more sugar or bread you eat the more you crave them also. Food cravings also drop back to your dominant gland and thus can lead to exhaustion if the stimulating foods are over consumed.

Junk food diet

Eating whatever food comes your way and not caring what it is.

Pros - None

Cons - Decreased health across the board

Average western diet

The average western diet is somewhere between a healthy eating diet, a junk food diet and following your foods cravings.

Pros - Very few benefits

Cons - Any possible benefits of a 'healthy eating' diet are usually off set by the Junk food or reliance on food cravings. This eating style is much worse for certain body chemistries than others.

Juicing diet.

Using a juicer to make any number of juices and smoothies.

Pros - Can obtain significant amounts of nutrients if done correctly

Cons - Normally lacks fat and protein amounts for good health. Reliance on fruit juice can be troublesome for many people. Does not account for the different nutritional qualities of fruits and vegetables, grouping them all together as good. Whether a food is 'good' is dependent on your body chemistry.

South beach diet

The book recommends very little in reality but for removal of heavily processed foods and avoiding certain carbohydrates which stimulate insulin production. It is a mix of Atkins diet and the Mediterranean diet with far less restrictions

Pros - Recommends reducing processed foods which is of benefit to anyone as is controlling certain insulin rising foods

Cons - Doesn't account for individual differences and allows people too many foods that will be wrong for certain body chemistries. Sold 5 million copies but also holds the title as the having the most money spent on the marketing of any diet book.

Blood type diet

This bases food recommendations on your blood type which is said to indicate your genetic needs from our ancestors.

Pros - Acknowledges the fact we all have different nutritionally needs and focuses on whole foods.

Cons - Recommendations have no bearing on the person's nutritional needs with the majority of his evidence criticized. Does not account for actual differences seen in the real world or changes during your life.

Blood analysis and diet recommendations

Food recommendations are based on results from your blood test.

Pros - Acknowledges the fact we all have different nutritional needs, and uses analysis to make recommendations.

Cons - Only uses a blood test to give recommendations. Blood is just one systemic level within the body. Put simply because you have high or low levels in the blood does not indicate whether you have high or low levels in the cells where it is needed.

Food combination / variation diets

Based on the fact that different foods secrete different enzymes which can upset digestion. Advises not combining certain food groups

Pros - Can help people's digestion if it is already severely weakened.

Cons - Can be dreadful nutritionally as the body needs protein, carbs and fat at each meal. Does not address the cause of poor digestion or identify different nutritional needs between individuals

Zone diet

Advocates a diet of 40% protein and 30% carbs and 30% fat.

Pros - Excellent for a proportion of the population

Cons - Does not work for the majority of people who's nutritional requirement varies from the recommendations.

Mediterranean diet

Based on what is commonly consumed in the south of Europe. The emphasis is on consuming unsaturated fats and carbohydrates.

Pros - Can work well for certain people.

Cons - Does not account for the variability between different people's body chemistry.

Glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) diets

Makes nutritional recommendations based on the ability of the food to raise or lower insulin within the body (glycemic index/load).

Pros - Aims to reduce the glycemic foods you consume which will benefit almost everyone.

Cons - GI is only one minor factor amongst other variables and thus should not be used to determine what to eat. Does not account for individual difference in food requirements or the other contributions and factors in nutrition.

The most effect diet you can do is a metabolic typing diet.

Hoodia Cactus Plant Diet - All You Need To Know About The Hoodia Gordonii Cactus Plant & Diet

Hoodia cactus plant extract has been widely publicized on the Today Show, 60 Minutes and other broadcast television programs. This article will explain the history of the Hoodia Cactus plant, how the Hoodia cactus diet works and where to find the most potent Hoodia cactus plant weight loss that really work.

The History of the Hoodia Cactus Plant The powerful properties of the Hoodia Gordonii plant have been recognised by the bushmen of the Kalahari desert for a very long period of time. In the mid 1990s the Council For Scientific And Industrial Research undertook a comprehensive study on the numerous native plants and bush foods regularly consumed by the "Sans Bushmen".

What the CSIR soon found out was that the Hoodia Gordonii cactus plant is not only not poisonous but it also contains some incredibly powerful properties to suppress the appetite and suppress the appetite. This study was found as a result of watching how animals reacted when eating the Hoodia cactus plant.

The Increasing Popularity of Hoodia Diet Products

As a result of the substantial claims of rapid weight loss numerous Hoodia Gordonii weight loss products have come onto the marketplace to become one of the most popular and fasting growing weight loss products in an marketplace where billions of dollars are spent every year on weight loss products.

Before going about the task of choosing a Hoodia product to help with your weight loss it is critical to understandmore about the Hoodia cactus plant. Once the CSIR had been able to isolate the potent in the Hoodia cactus plant that was responsible for appetite suppressing and increasing fat burning capabilities they called it p57. The CSIR then onsold the licence to P57 to a British pharmaceutical organisation called Phytopharm.

How Can So Many Hoodia Diet Products Be On The Market When Only Phytopharm Holds The Rights

It is somewhat surprising that there are such a number of Hoodia weight loss on the market when Phytopharm holds the licence to P57. While Phytopharm actually holds the patent rights to P57 there are other patent laws that come into play. Only the Phytopharm pharmaceutical company can legally extract the potent P57 molecule located in Hoodia Gordonii and use it in any and all of their Hoodia cactus plant product lines.

However, that being said, the whole Hoodia Gordonii plant is never able to be patented. As a result of this other companies can now legally produce their own Hoodia weight loss supplements and products legally without holding the licence to P57.

With such a range of products now available from the Hoodia plant it is absolutely imperative that consumers don't fall for cheap, ineffective imitations and that they ensure that they only purchase PURE South African cactus Hoodia Gordonii products for maximum weight loss results.

Is weight loss with Hoodia really that simple? It is if you know which Hoodia cactus plant products to buy and which ones to avoid at all costs. Not all Hoodia products are the same. I have conducted an honest review of all Hoodia weight loss products which claim to give almost miraculous weight loss results for dieters worldwide. My Hoodia weight loss review reveals the truth about Hoodia products…and the truth may shock you. Read my Hoodia weight loss review now at www.hoodia-weight-loss-review.com before you buy any Hoodia weight loss product or you could be sorry!

"DIET" It's a Dirty Word

When you think 'diet' you are actively engaging in short term thinking. When you start to think of it as something you go on and then off again, that's the wrong direction. Lose the word "diet" from your vocabulary!

According to Miller Jones, a professor of nutrition and food science at the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, Minnesota. 4th graders are aware of the word diet, especially the girls.One of the world's largest study of weight loss has shown that diets do not work for the vast majority of slimmers and may even put lives at risk.

This type of yo-yo behavior is linked to many health problems. Because of the strain on the body of repeated weight loss and weight gain, the researchers found that the dieters would have been better off not dieting at all. Research has shown the repeated rapid weight gain and loss associated with dieting can double the risk of death from heart disease, including heart attacks, and the risk of premature death in general.

For starters...

When you think 'diet' you are actively engaging in short term thinking. When you start to think of it as something you go on and then off again, that's the wrong direction. Some of the BEST resources on nutrition are not diets. They are eating plans. They are how to eat healthy for life programs. They teach you how to eat correctly for everyday living. There's nothing short term about them.

"The benefits of dieting are simply too small and the potential harms of dieting are too large for it to be recommended as a safe and effective treatment for obesity." -Dr Traci Mann

A quick test is to simply look at any given plan and immediately ask yourself...

Is this something I can do for life?

Frankly...

If you are overweight, then thinking in the short term is exactly why you could be doomed to fail! As you bounce from one plan to the next, you become more and more frustrated.

FACT: Many diets that use a severe calorie restriction just makes it harder to lose the weight the next time.

FACT: Some studies show that repeated weight loss and regain actually increase the changes you'll gain even more weight the next time.

FACT: Studies consistently find that people who report the most exercise also have the most weight loss.

Now with all this in mind...

No matter what eating plan you choose or what your goals, just drop the word 'diet' from your vocabulary and pick a plan you can stick with for life. That encourages slow weight loss or weight gain. That doesn't "demonize" foods but helps you pick and choose from healthy alternatives and explains the reasons why.

If you are always changing your eating habits for special events or every 8 weeks, you might be dieting. That's the time to take a step back and learn all you can about nutrition. Learning how to eat correctly is something you can stick with for life and avoid the common frustrations.

Learn exactly how to eat, what to eat and when to eat it. No more dangerous and frustrating diets. Marc David is a natural bodybuilder and author of the, Beginner's Guide to Fitness and Bodybuilding. You can get info on Marc's e-book at: http://www.Beginning-Bodybuilding.com To get Marc's free e-zine with the 6 Simple Steps to Successfully creating your personal nutrition plan, visit http://www.JustAskMarc.com

The Benefits Of Flax Seed Omega 3 In Your Diet

The benefits of having enough Flax seed Omega 3 in our diets are tremendous. Flaxseed Omega3 can benefit a person in 3 areas: heart health, mental health and reduced pain and inflammation. Omega 3 is a fatty acid found in flax seed, fish oil and some other types of healthy oils. Nutritional experts have long been talking about the various benefits of flax seed and Omega 3. The essential fatty acid Omega 3 found in flax seed has the ability to promote good heart health, reduce the occurrences of some common mental ailments and reduce pain and inflammations in individuals suffering from arthritis. This article will review these benefits and enlighten the reader as to why including flax seed in your diet may be critical for a healthy lifestyle.

Heart Health

The Omega 3 found in flax seed has been studied by nutritionists and found to promote heart health. Omega 3 lowers the bad cholesterol in the body while positively effecting, if not necessarily increasing, the levels of good cholesterol. Flax seed has also been shown to lower blood pressure in individual who consume it and may prevent plaque from building along the artery walls. Along with the physical health that is boosted by the consumption of flax seed and Omega 3, some exciting mental health benefits also exist.

Mental Health

Since the foods that contain Omega 3 are not common in the diets of people today, a deficiency of this vital fatty acid is common. Some experts believe that it is this deficiency that has cause the rise in mental disorders including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Often the additional of flax seed with Omega 3 fatty acids to the diet of mental disturbed patients can ease their symptoms and alleviate their suffering. Not only does Omega 3 from flax seed lessen the instances of mental disorders but it can also increase the mood, mental acuity and visual sharpness of those who include it in their daily diets. People who eat flax seed with Omega 3 have also reported fewer instances of pain and inflammation.

Reduced Pain and Inflammation

Arthritis sufferers can be limited in what activities they can take part in. Flax seed and essential Omega 3 helps ease the pain and swelling in the joints that is associated with osteoarthritis. Studies have also shown that omega 3 from flax seed can slow the breakdown of cartilage that causes arthritis to be so painful and disabling. Since omega 3 promotes cell growth, it is possible that eating flax seed on a daily basis can alleviate many common aches and pains, such as eyestrain, headaches, lower back and leg pain. But how easy is it to add flax seed to your daily eating menu?

Incorporating Flax Seed And Omega 3 Into Your Diet

Flax seeds have a delightful nutty-type flavor that goes well with any food that you would be likely to add nuts to. First it is important to mention that flax seeds should be grinded before use to enable easier digestion and richer flavor. Once they are properly processed, sprinkle them over salads or cereals to add a crunch. This also works well with yogurt. For a healthy burst of nutty flavor, add flax seeds to your muffins instead of walnuts. You could also consider sprinkling a handful of omega 3 rich flax seeds over your breakfast pancakes.

Kerry Ng is a successful Webmaster and publisher of The Omega 3 Flaxseeds Blog. For more helpful information about Omega3 Flaxseeds visit omega3flaxseeds.com

What Is GERD Diet?

GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is sometimes referred to as acid reflux. The symptoms that a person suffers from with this disease can be very wide ranging as well as being extremely annoying. But if a person suffering from this disease wishes to alleviate these symptoms then they will need to make changes to their lifestyle and also start using a GERD diet.

Normally making changes to your lifestyle may seem a little daunting but certainly by alleviating some of the stresses and strains that you feel during the course of a day will help to improve your situation immensely. Also you need to start looking at the kind of foods you are eating and making changes to your diet which can then prevent the acid reflux from becoming worse.

However when it comes to making changes to your diet in order to alleviate the symptoms of this disease it does not mean that you have to give up those that you really enjoy. Instead what you need to do is find out about those foods which are causing the symptoms and then just start to reduce the amount of them that you consume. You do not need to eliminate them entirely from your diet as just by reducing the amount that you eat will go a long way to helping you to deal with acid reflux.

Also by creating a GERD diet, you are helping to strengthen the muscles that are to be found at the bottom of your throat and which will in turn help to prevent the acid reflux occurring. The muscles at the bottom of your throat allow food that you have eaten to gain entry into your stomach. They open as the food passes down your throat and will close once all food has entered the stomach. When you have acid reflux, these muscles have become too wide and so they are unable to close properly once the food has passed through.

When it comes to you designing a GERD diet in order to help alleviate the symptoms of this particular disease and to help strengthen up the muscles at the base of your throat you should first consider eliminating such foods as chocolate, fried foods, caffeinated drinks, whole milk and those foods and drinks which contain large amounts of citrus in them. Instead you should increase the amount of fat free milk as well as fish both of which can help to alleviate acid reflux.

Ricky Lim highly recommend herbal acid reflux treatment for your acid reflux problems especially for infants and young children. Visit his site at http://www.herbalacidreflux.com for more acid reflux information.

Diets and Cancer: Are The Things You Are Eating Causing Cancer?

An overview of the 3 things that cause cancer in our daily diets. Cancers don't appear for no reason. Cancers develop if you follow an unhealthy diet full of cancer causing food over an extended period of time. Some of the food we eat have high amounts of cancer promoters (carcinogens) that cause cancers. In this article, we will discover the 3 common types of carcinogens most people are exposed to on a daily basis, what types of food we should and should not consume to prevent cancer.

Acrylamide In Food: Should I Be Worried?

Acrylamide has been used in industries that specialize in the treatment of contaminated water, creation of plastic, and manufacturing of food packaging. Scientists recently found traces of acrylamide in food that was cooked with high temperature cooking methods such as microwaving, frying, baking and roasting. Even though acrylamide has been attested to cause cancer in animals, doctors have not found absolute evidence that is causes cancer in humans even though it is toxic to our bodies. French fries top the charts of food that contain the highest levels of acrylamide, followed by certain brands of potato chips, breakfast cereals, cookies, brewed coffee and toast bread according to the US FDA/CFSAN 2006 Exposure Assessment for Acrylamide.

The Harmful Effects Of Sodium Nitrate

Sodium nitrate is a common food additive found in processed meat. It is used to conserve the reddish color of meat to make it look more appetizing to eat at the neglection of your health. Sodium nitrate on it's own is pretty harmless but it changes into a carcinogenic substance called nitrosamine during the digestion process, thus promoting the growth of cancer cells. Almost all forms of processed meat like bacon, hot dogs, bologna, pepperoni, lunch meat and ham contain sodium nitrate.

Trans Fat 101: What Is It And Why It Is Unhealthy

Trans fat or trans-fatty acids (TFAs) are the most terrible kind of fat you can consume. Trans fat is created by a hydrogenation process that transforms unsaturated vegetable oils to a semi-solid state. Food companies do this to save money, to improve flavor stability and to extend the shelf life of their products. Due to it's processed nature, it is considered unnatural in our bodies and it is very tough to digest, therefore it easily clogs our arteries if we don't exercise often. What's worse, trans fat promotes the development of bad cholesterol and reduces the levels of good cholesterol, increasing your risk of heart disease. Trans fat can be found in pastries, hydrogenated oils, commercially deep-fried food, food with vegetable shortening and partially hydrogenated oils.

Foods That Will Help You Lay Off Cancer

It is ideal for all of us to restrict or eliminate our consumption of processed food that contain the 3 carcinogens above and other toxins such as cigarettes, alcohol, sugar and salt. However, it is very difficult for most people as some of them are really yummy. The decision is up to you to decide which is more important to you. At the very least, choose natural food like organic vegetables, fruit and meat as much as possible. Having a diet made of nutrients, antioxidants and fiber from raw vegetables and fruit should help you steer clear from cancer. As a general rule, eat what mother nature intended us to eat and avoid man-made food.

Visit Natalie's site CancerArchive.com for more tips on how to prevent cancer, treat cancer and much more. Be sure to check out Natural Cancer Treatments That Work to find out how you may cure cancer naturally without the use of chemotherapy and radiation.

6 Pack Abs Diet – Eat Your Way to Stunning 6 Pack Abs

Getting that great 6 pack abs is not all about exercise. In fact, all that 6 pack abs workout is meaningless if your belly still has layers of fat. You can firm up and sculpt your abs but the fat remains – and covers up your hard work - if you do not eat right. A pot belly is still a pot belly and a love handle is still a love handle even if you have amazing abdominal muscles beneath the fat.

The good news, though, is with the proper abs diet, you can have that sexy 6 pack abs. And, you need not exert so much time and effort in workout as the body will already be shedding fat – even without strenuous activity. Eating right is a very crucial step to get that steaming hot abs.

Below are some simple diet tips to help you lose belly fat fast and get that 6 pack abs quicker:

1) Eat small, well-distributed meals throughout the day. Aside from the usual breakfast, lunch and dinner, you may want to include a morning and afternoon snack as well. Eating this way keeps the body’s metabolism going and makes fat burning easier. Fast metabolism can translate to fast abs.

2) Choose foods high in fiber. Aside from detoxifying the body, fiber is lower in calories and fills you up without the fat. So instead of that white bread or white rice, opt for whole grains and brown rice. Stack up on fruits and vegetables.

3) Build muscle with healthy protein. To "build" your hot 6 pack abs, eat healthy protein like tuna, salmon, eggs, almonds, cottage cheese, among others. Protein also boosts metabolism.

4) Get energy from complex carbohydrates. When it comes to toning your abs or tummy, complex carbohydrates may be not so complex. These carbs are simple, straightforward solutions. Eat complex carbs so that lesser sugar is converted to body fat. Green leafy vegetables, legumes, and root crops like sweet potatoes are excellent complex carbohydrates.

5) Cut down on sodium. Sodium bloats the stomach. Avoid salty foods like chips. Besides, these contain lots of fat anyway. Also, ease up on the seasoning when you’re cooking. Higher salt content in food can stimulate your appetite instead of curbing it. And if you want those ripped abs, you won’t aim to eat more.

6) Lessen alcohol intake. Like sodium, alcohol can also bloat the stomach. Plus, they are additional calories you need to burn. Imagine the washboard abs you can get if you don’t drink that next bottle.

7) Drink right. Keep your body hydrated with plenty of water. Water is also a good appetite controller.
Combine this effective abs diet tips with strategic cardiovascular and abs workout, and your dream of having sexy, 6 pack abs gets closer everyday.

Self-help expert Michael Lee has prepared a FREE extreme fat-burning course that reveals secrets on quick weight loss and how to lose belly fat fast at http://www.20daypersuasion.com/fat-secret.htm

Is The Glycemic Index A Fad Diet?

Like many diets whose claims are still waiting to be scientifically tested, the glycemic index has many passionate followers. What makes this somewhat different is the number of dieticians who champion it. Find out what's going on here. The glycemic index is quite popular amongst some dietitians as a way to help control diabetes, lose weight, and improve general health. However, it is not without its' controversy - a health expert published on the American Diabetes Association website has labeled it a fad, the successor to the Atkins diet fad. This article will look at both these points of view, the complexities of the glycemic index that make it difficult to apply in real life food situations, and whether there is any value in the approach.

What Is The Glycemic Index?

The glycemic index looks at the way different carbohydrates affect blood sugar levels as they are absorbed into the bloodstream. These qualities are established by comparing each food with a control - either white bread or glucose. All foods are thus given a value against this control, and a relative table is established. Unfortunately, the GI values in the tables based on bread and glucose are not always the same for each food, making comparison difficult.

Many dieticians believe blood sugar levels can be controlled through choosing foods and meals with a favourable GI rating. This may be done by choosing foods with a moderate or low GI rating, or cooking foods with a high GI in a way that lowers the GI. Or, including those high GI foods in a meal with other foods that also lowers the overall GI value of the meal. Protein, fiber, and beneficial fats all have this effect of lowering the glycemic index of a food.

This capacity of other foods, cooking methods, and other factors to affect the glycemic index is what makes it difficult to find any practical value in the theory. The changes in GI can be fairly significant. Even how ripe a food is, how long it has been in storage, and what variety it is all have an impact. As the American Diabetes Association website states, potatoes in the US and Australia have different GI values. This level of variation requires a lot of knowledge on the part of the consumer to work out the correct values, and then make a decision on whether it is appropriate for their blood sugar levels at the time.

And the food itself is not the only variable. The glycemic index of foods varies with each person. And it can also vary for one individual on a day to day basis. Whilst potato may have a higher GI for you one day, the next it might not. Another problem is that the GI values are based on a serving size of 50g. We rarely eat 50g at a time.

The studies on the benefits of a GI diet may actually reflect other factors at play. For example, the authors of a study that found an association between those on a low GI diet and a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration made the point that a low GI diet generally had a higher percentage of antioxidants and other phytochemicals known to benefit eye health. Thus, a low GI diet may not actually be responsible for the eye benefits, it may simply be a coincidence, and the vehicle through which those particular respondents included more eye healthy food.

Ultimately, whether the glycemic index is beneficial for you is a matter of personal choice. It is a difficult and complex diet to follow for the reasons mentioned above. And poor food choices (in terms of sugar, fat and other content) can still be made. Thus a low GI diet does not necessarily mean a healthy diet. It may simply be better to incorporate general principles of healthy eating and listen to your own body, rather than a body of theory. At the end of the day, the GI is still largely theory that requires more stringent human studies.

Whether it's news on weight loss, nutrition, health supplements or fitness, get your health tips here.

Tough Love Approach Keeps Fad Dieting Going

With the overweight in the UK now being banned from some surgical operations unless they crash diet, weight control charity The Weight Foundation discusses the growing stigmatization of obesity. Increasing numbers of waiting list patients are now being forced to slim before being allowed to have routine operations on the British National Health Service. A newspaper investigation claims that the localised policy is now to be rolled out nationally by the end of 2007.Doctors will allocate treatment to patients according to their Body Mass Index, the BMI being the formula relating putative optimum weight to height.

If people have a BMI over 30, which is commonplace in the UK and very much towards the average zone in the US, they will be denied non-emergency operations such as hip and knee surgery, or procedures including IVF treatment.

The new guidelines already apply to about 1 in 15 of the PCTs in the UK and, when implemented nationally, the BMI-rule will affect about 1 in 5 of the population. Failure to achieve the threshold for operations will result in being recommended a crash slimming regime and reassessment after six months.

Health officials state that their rationale behind the strict new qualification for treatment is justified by research which shows that slimmer people have better recovery rates from surgery. Whatever the proven scientific case for this viewpoint and also not forgetting the debatable validity of the now 150 year old BMI standpoint, a considered critique reveals troubling implications within this clampdown.

One of the central paradoxes of the current major debate surrounding obesity is the question of why people persist in long term dieting cycles when dieting is increasingly discredited as an effective means of lasting weight control. It can be argued that individuals are being driven into fad dieting not so much by the long standing notion of Yo Yo Dieting (itself, we would contend, simpliste and flawed) but rather by overwhelming institutionalised and cultural pressures. From this perspective, the creeping criminalisation of overweight, which is advancing steadily deeper and deeper into the denial of erstwhile civil liberties, is a major stepping-up of these institutionalised pressures.

Some would also argue that the extension of public health care intervention into wider and wider aspects of modern living is not so much a wellbeing aspiration as a symptom of the current western governmental drift towards an increasing micromanagement of the whole lifestyle. This is not necessarily a claim either of the left or the right, as both perspectives would be critical of an excessively big state overriding basic liberties.The problem with all of this in relation to the overweight arena is that it is leaving those already involved in failed fad dieting with nowhere to turn except straight back into more fad dieting.

Gradual lifestyle adjustments, new coping strategies for the emotional stresses which trigger overeating, a relaxed appreciation of the cultural drivers towards fad dieting cycles and the fostering of a choice to move in fresh directions – all of these healthful options are blown away by the official decrees to lose weight fast. In the absence of alternatives, what are people to do except to plunge back into the fad dieting mainstream?

Government, unchallenged, is always going to be relatively short term in its outlook; it is simply the way that it tends to work.The short termism in this instance is exacerbating the very issues it is seeking to address. The macho "tough love" approach will do little except deliver "tough luck" on those problem dieters who now have less freedom than ever to break away from fad dieting. This is another expression of the growing yet implicit official view that the overweight are deviants who must be brought back within the correct moral line. Is this fair or accurate?

Malcolm Evans is founder and secretary of registered charity The Weight Foundation, which researches dieting and produces commentary on weight loss culture.

Why Should You Use Nutritional Supplements in Your Diet?

This article explains the benefits and the necessity of using Nutritional Supplements in your diet. Nutritional supplements are used to fulfill a deficiency of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients in our everyday diet. A few years ago nutritional supplements were not as popular among people as they are today. This is because in years passed there was not much need for anyone to take these supplements. People used to eat pure and healthy food which consisted of a balanced diet including milk, eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, rice, fish. Basically back then our diet contained everything that we needed in order for our bodies to function correctly. Today our busy schedules have made our minds so pre-occupied that we don't have enough time to eat enough to fulfill all our body needs. Combined with the fact that the vegetables are extensively farmed and kept on shelves for a long time, this reduces the nutrient intake that we actually eat. This is why we need nutritional supplements to maintain our health.

It is a known fact that nutritional supplements are useful for people belonging to all age groups. Children need adequate amounts of calcium, phosphorus and iron to develop healthy bones and teeth. Similarly, elderly people need all kinds of vitamins and energy vitalizing substances to keep themselves fit. These supplements also help them fight against various diseases, and some are even thought to prevent heart attacks and even cancer. Many nutritional supplements, including folic acid, are recommended to pregnant women to protect the baby from developing any abnormality. Obesity and high cholesterol can also be treated by using nutritional supplements made from natural plant and animal extracts.

Lately there has been much debate as to whether nutritional supplements are really useful or if there's really no point in taking them. It's true that there is no alternative for a proper balanced diet, nothing can take the place of fresh fruits and vegetables. But at the same time taking small amounts of health supplements is not harmful at all, instead it provides protection against many diseases in the long run.

You should never replace your everyday meals with nutritional supplements, although meal replacement powders are available on the market. As with any change in your diet it's important to consult a health specialist before consuming any kind of nutritional supplement. Also don't fall for the many attractive advertisements about some supplement products that claim to do wonders overnight. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!

Natural food extracts should always be preferred over other man-made supplements. A weight loss supplement made from extracts of green tea is an example. Many other supplements are also made by combining different herbal extracts and a blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and fatty acids. As you must have guessed, these materials are not harmful for the body at all as they all occur naturally.

People who are taking antibiotics are advised to ask their doctor before buying nutritional supplements because they might interfere with the antibiotic course that has to be completed in order to treat an infection. Similarly diabetic patients and those suffering from high blood pressure and high cholesterol are advised not to consume any kind of weight gain or energy boosting supplement before consulting their doctor.

You also need to remember that these nutritional supplements are effective only when right amounts of each one is taken as prescribed by a health specialist. Overdose might prove to be detrimental to your health. Similarly taking less than the correct dosage, or not following the procedure correctly may not prove to be as effective for the body.

Overdose can also cause some side effects like dizziness and nausea. There are no clear signs of vitamin or mineral deficiency in the body, but when you feel that your diet is not composed of all the healthy food that must be consumed everyday, you should immediately ask your doctor's opinion. If taken properly and as part of a healthy balanced diet, nutritional supplements are an excellent way to ensure that your body is being fed with all the necessary nutrients it needs in order to function properly and defend it from various kinds of illnesses.

Christopher DiCicco is the owner of the online nutritional supplements store http://www.FlexHealthNutrition.com and has been involved with health and nutrition for over 20 years. He has written many articles on such topics as nutritional supplements, bodybuilding supplements, weightlifting supplements, vitamins and minerals to name a few. http://www.flexhealthnutrition.com/details/shop/AM-034

Weight Loss With the Master Cleanse Lemonade Diet

Find out the benefits of the lemonade fast, like losing weight, but also the things to avoid that are unhealthy. Also learn about a substance that Americans consume that have no calories but makes people fat. This means that this weight is not affected by how many calories you consume and how many you burn. This is also called the master cleanser lemonade fast, lemonade detox diet and lemonade cleansing diet. It is very popular now. Beyonce lost 20 pounds in 10 days for Dream Girls with it and Robin Quivers (Howard Stern's assistant) heard about it from magician, David Blaine. She lost 73 pounds with it. There are many testimonials of people losing weight and getting other benefits so it is a great way to lose weight before the prom. But there are complaints about it. Many people have practiced fasting including Jesus, Mark Twain, Plato, Abraham Lincoln, Hippocrates and many medical doctors. Because of this, it has been constantly improved upon. But because the lemonade diet was created by one person, Stanley Burroughs, it has attracted many people who are afraid to change anything about it. So they follow it as a cult or a religion. It is like fasting since they are not eating food and consuming water, which is the main ingredient in the lemonade. So they get many of the benefits of fasting like losing weight.

The lemonade diet recipe contains these ingredients: water, freshly squeezed lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper. This tastes better than just drinking water like while fasting. People experienced with fasting know that you do not have to worry about the colon. Fasting gives it a vacation and it becomes healthier than ever. With the lemonade fast people lose weight and get health benefits from not eating. But there is a practice done as part of it known as the Salt Water Flush where you drink water with a lot of salt in it. This is what is bad about the lemonade diet. This has caused many complaints.

People complain about the taste of it and about wanting to vomit after doing it and other problems. It consists of drinking salt water which does not get digested but goes through and comes out the same way that solid waste comes out. Also they complain how you have to be home with easy access to the toilet since this stuff can come out very quickly. The purpose of doing it is to cleanse the colon. Some complain that it does not work with them. These people do not know why it goes through undigested. The reason is because it is very toxic. It does not take much salt, which is not a food, to kill someone. A guy dissolved 4 ounces of salt (112,000 mg) in a quart of water and drank it and it killed him. A quarter pounder is 4 ounces. The American Medical Association is trying to get the FDA to make salt a regulated substance so they can limit the amount that is put in foods. If someone wants, they can use an enema to clean the colon. They are used in hospitals daily. If a person consumes no salt for 2 weeks, they can lose up to 20 pounds (mostly water weight). Salt has no calories but can make you overweight due to water retention. Water weight makes you look very fat and weighs a lot. Consuming less calories and burning lots of calories has no effect on this weight. Also people doing the master cleanse will drink a laxative tea which can be too strong and cause intestinal cramping.

Stanley Burroughs is dead so he cannot correct mistakes that he made so it is up to others to do it. There have been some, who are followers of this lemonade diet, that have made minor improvements like replacing maple syrup with agave (a natural sweetener from a cactus) and taking the cayenne in a shot glass instead of it being in their lemonade.

Chuck Bluestein is a nutritionist, ethnobotanical herbalist and a master faster. His website has info on colds and flus, losing weight (including water weight), Lemonade Diet, weight loss strategies, healthy diet, fasting, natural cures and how to be happier.

Is Using Diet Pills to Increase Metabolism a Good Idea?

While taking diet pills may bring about a short term weight loss in the long run making permanent lifestyle changes will lead to better results that last. We are fast becoming a society in search of instant gratification. More and more people are beginning to think and believe that somehow with all our scientific knowledge and research that losing weight and getting in shape should be an easy undertaking. Losing weight should be a lifestyle choice that is based on living a healthy life. Using a pill to lose weight might work for the short term, but without serious changes in eating and exercising habits most people will soon gain the weight back, particularly when they stop taking the pills.

Why?

Here's why. A diet pills primary ingredient is a stimulant of some sort such as caffeine. The nice thing about a stimulant like caffeine is that it does indeed increase the body's metabolism and suppresses the appetite. That might sound like the perfect weight loss recipe but unlike naturally increasing metabolism using an artificial stimulant only lasts as long as the drug is in your body.

The other thing that people who use diet pills must be aware of is that the pill is not the end all and be all of losing weight. Simply taking a pill and not changing their current eating habits will lead to few if any weight loss results. The pill will give a good starting point but without some serious lifestyle changes about eating and exercising it will not give the results asked for.

The problem with any diet pill, or stimulant for that matter, is that it is artificially stimulating the body's metabolic systems. The body reacts to this stimulation by an increase in metabolism brought about by certain hormones being released into the blood stream. This does burn off extra calories but it comes at a price. The body's supply of hormones is not infinite.

The adrenal glands supply a good portion of the body's hormones. If they are constantly bombarded with caffeine or other stimulants they will soon exhaust their supply of hormones, many of which are responsible for metabolism and weight control. Before long the body's inability to regulate itself naturally will begin to have affects, some of them serious.

With any appetite suppressant one has to be aware that not actually eating enough can also have the opposite effect they might be looking for. If the body goes into starvation mode its metabolism will actually begin to slow down to store it energy for the perceived lean times ahead. This is why anyone cutting calories, either through diet or with artificial means, needs to be careful with how much they are cutting. The body requires a certain amount of calories per day to function at peak efficiency. Take in to many calories and it gets stored as fat. Take in to few and the metabolism slows down protecting the fat stores it already has.

Using diet pills in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise program can be a good way to start losing weight. They can give that initial boost to ones metabolism and start the weight coming off, which can be a great motivator. They are not, however, a good long term weight loss and maintenance solution. The best long term weight loss solution is a change to a healthier lifestyle that allows the body to naturally increase its metabolism to a level that burns calories at an optimum rate.

For more information about increasing your metabolism and for more information about how your metabolism works please click here.

The Truth About The Good Diet Pill

Many people who feel they have a weight problem search for a good diet pill; something they can swallow down with a glass of water and watch the pounds fall off. However, there are some risks with taking diet pills, and they typically do not produce the results that people are looking for.

There are a few kinds of diet pills that affect your body differently, but most of them are essentially an upper, which speeds your metabolism and causes you to not be hungry since your body is getting energy from the upper. Increasing your metabolism rate does cause you to lose weight, because your body burns energy more quickly, but diet pills cause your body to consume itself. The majority of diet pills that actually work are composed mostly of an amphetamine derivative, which you may recognize from the drug methamphetamine. Like meth, these diet pills have many side effects that can be harmful, especially for teens.

Typically these amphetamine-based pills are only a good diet pill when used as part of a larger good diet plan to treat obesity. These pills can be used to drop some weight quickly, but they cannot keep the weight from coming back. Only healthy lifestyle choices, like developing good diet plan and exercise program, can prevent weight from coming back. These diet pills are effective for treating people with obesity because it essentially gives them a jump-start to losing weight. One sad fact about diet pills is that many of the users of diet pills are young women whose weight is in an ordinary range, but they wish to become even thinner. Women who feel this way may have problems with their image and develop eating disorders as a way of losing unwanted weight instead of using a good diet plan and good exercise program.

Although most diet pills are junk, there may be a good diet pill out there. Some herbs are reported to help the fat melt away, but like amphetamine-based diet pills, they are not a long term fix. Using pills and other gimmicks like sweat suits and starvation diets only treat the symptoms of a weight problem, not the cause. Diet pills are the symptom of a larger problem in western culture; we expect instant results with out expending any energy. A good diet pill that is an end-all for our weight problems sounds reasonable because our culture teaches us that we deserve such things merely for showing up instead of practicing good eating habits and developing a good exercise program.

A truly good diet pill would be one that motivates people to develop healthy eating habits and activity levels since this is the only effective way to lose weight and keep it off. Diet pills do not truly help many people, and, in truth, end up causing more problems than they solve.

Terje Brooks Ellingsen is a writer and internet publisher who likes to publish resources for loosing weight. You can go to Weight Loss Plans for more.

How To Lose Weight With Hoodia Diet Pills

You’ve heard that you can lose weight with hoodia quickly and easily. While hoodia can be an effective appetite suppressant, it isn’t a miracle weight loss solution. Here are two simple tips on how to effectively lose weight with hoodia. You’re tired of being overweight and you’ve heard that you can quickly and easily lose weight with hoodia. Not so fast! Despite the marketing hype and the exaggerated advertising claims made by people selling hoodia diet pills, they aren’t miracle weight loss pills. In fact, if quick and easy weight loss is your goal, then hoodia gordonii isn’t the answer.

There is a way, however, to gradually lose weight with hoodia if you understand what it is and what it does. Hoodia gordonii is a cactus-like plant that contains a molecule called P57. This molecule tricks the brain into thinking you are full. In short, hoodia gordonii diet pills are natural appetite suppressants. They don’t burn fat, increase metabolism, or magically melt the pounds away.

The idea behind diet pills that contain hoodia gordonii is that if you feel full, you’ll eat less. As a result, you’ll lose weight with hoodia. In theory this works great as long as you maintain an overall healthy diet and you get the necessary calories your body requires. The problem is most people who take hoodia diet pills make the mistake of not eating enough. They figure since they are full they don’t need to eat.

What happens if you skip meals or drastically cut down on the number of calories you are getting is your body goes into starvation mode. When this occurs, your metabolism shuts down. This is the body’s natural way of protecting itself. By slowing down your metabolism, your body reserves what little calories you give it so that it can still perform all of its functions properly. Instead of burning calories and shedding fat, your body stores calories as fat! If you want to lose weight with hoodia you can’t skip any meals – even if you feel full.

The beauty of hoodia diet pills is that if you feel full, you’ll most likely make better eating decisions. Even when you are full, you know you still have to eat to keep your metabolism burning. However, you probably won’t have the desire to eat as much as you normally would if you weren’t full. That’s the power of hoodia. It forces you to make better eating decisions. Instead of gorging out on a plate full of food, you will probably be just as satisfied eating half as much.

Another way to lose weight with hoodia is to take hoodia diet pills at strategic times of the day. Most brands recommend you take hoodia about an hour before each meal. If you are prone to overeating in between meals, or if there are certain times of the day where you absolutely crave junk food, then consider taking hoodia diet pills in between meals or before those times you know you’re vulnerable. For example, if you tend to crave a candy bar or other junk food on the way home from work, take your hoodia diet pills shortly before you leave for work.

In summary, hoodia gordonii diet pills can be terrific natural weight loss aids as they have the potential to be effective appetite suppressants. However, don’t make the mistake of skipping meals or drastically cutting your caloric intake. Consider taking hoodia in between meals and before those times of the day you know you’ll be vulnerable to junk food. If you keep these simple tips in mind, you will be able to effectively lose weight with hoodia.

Did you know the majority of hoodia supplements on the market are fake? Be sure the brand you are taking is authentic. Visit http://hoodiaandweightloss.com for detailed hoodia reviews.

New Diet Uses the Power of Your mind

In their battle against the bulge, desperate dieters have tried drugs, surgery, exercise, counseling, creams and even electrical fat-burning belts.

Now psychologists found that it could persuade people to avoid fattening foods by implanting unpleasant childhood memories about the food — even though the event never happened.

The scientists say they also have successfully implanted positive opinions about asparagus by convincing subjects that they once loved the vegetable.

The findings were stronger in a second experiment where students were asked to provide details about the imaginary strawberry ice cream episode. In that case, 41 percent of the subjects given erroneous information later believed the tale and said they intended to avoid the food.

Weight-control experts expressed interest in the study, but were skeptical about using implanted memories as a dieting technique.

Deliberately implanting memories "raises profound ethical questions," said Stephen Behnke, director of the ethics office of the American Psychological Association.

The food studies are the latest in a string of memory experiments by Loftus, a professor of psychology and criminology at UC Irvine.

Loftus is most famous for her position on recovered memories of childhood sexual abuse. Based on her work, she has suggested that most of these memories were probably false.

The point of this article is to show the real power of the mind. The mind can trick us and we can now learn to use it to trick it back into doing what serves us. You may be addicted to cigarette smoking, even though you know it’s bad for you, because the pull of peer pressure was so huge when you were younger that you started smoking. Now that desire no longer serves you but you think you are incapable of stopping.

However, your mind can be your greatest ally. To learn more about techniques to control your weight, develop your health and increase your vitality, visit the science of being well to learn about the Home Study Course and the techniques that can help you.

In the Science of Being Well Home Study Course, you will find many examples and stories to help you develop your own powers of healing using simply the power of your mind. This is not revolutionary. These secrets have been around for ages. To learn more, claim your FREE report of the First Secret to Abundant Health on www.thescienceofbeingwell.biz

*From the desk of Dr Magne, author with Wallace Wattles of The Science of Being Well Home Study Course.

High Cholesterol: Low Cholesterol Diets And Natural Supplements

Is your cholesterol high, low, middling, whatever? The fact is that if you have high cholesterol you could be well on your way to a heart attack or stroke. Take control through low cholesterol diets and natural supplements, and find out about it in this article. What’s the big deal about blood cholesterol anyway? Is your cholesterol high, low, middling, whatever? Well, the fact of the matter is that if you have high cholesterol you could be well on your way to a heart attack or stroke so that’s reason enough to start worrying about it. Is your cholesterol high? Let’s look at what could contribute to high blood cholesterol. It could be all that weight you’re carrying around, it could be all that junk food you’re downing everyday, it could be the lazy, laid-back life you love which thinks of exercise and shudders. It could be your cholesterol is high due to stress - at home, at work, maybe even at play. And for women over 50 with high cholesterol, it could just be the fact that they are over 50. You might just say, ‘So what if my cholesterol’s high? Well, if your cholesterol’s high, you need to know this.

We all have good cholesterol HDLs or high density lipoproteins and bad cholesterol LDLs or low density lipoproteins. HDLs are the transporters - they carry the excess cholesterol to the liver to be broken down. LDLs, however, can cause a build-up of plaque in the arteries. If high cholesterol symptoms are left untended, it can give you a rather rude wake-up call, i.e. a heart attack. The trouble is the problem sneaks up on you so quietly, and very often high cholesterol shows no warning signs and you don’t really know about it till it explodes. That’s why it’s important to have your self checked for symptoms of high cholesterol and to check that your LDL levels are below100 mg/dL and your HDL levels are over 40 mg/dL. The National Cholesterol Education Program was launched by The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) in 1985 to reduce the percentage of Americans who have cholesterol higher than what it should be through educational campaigns run by professionals. (http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/ncep/index.htm)

What ways are there to treat high cholesterol, or better still, prevent it? Well, exercising, giving up smoking and controlling your weight are great ways to begin. You could also look at a low cholesterol diet (for high cholesterol) and at what Nature has to offer. One natural remedy that packs quite a punch is garlic. All you need to do is to pop a clove in your mouth and chew first thing every morning - it’s a great LDL-fighter. If you just can’t do it, then chop it up and swallow it down with water. If even that’s too much, try taking garlic supplements in capsule form. Mitamins‘ Natural Remedy for High Cholesterol contains garlic extract amongst other vitamins, herbs and minerals thought to reduce bad cholesterol.

Fish oil or Omega-3 is a great natural remedy for the treatment and prevention of high cholesterol too. Participants in a study who took a daily fish oil supplement actually had a 40% lower chance of sudden heart-related deaths than non-fish-oil takers. That’s probably why Eskimos hardly suffer from high cholesterol. Also good are oat bran, red rice and avocado. A 1000mg Vitamin C tablet a day is also supposed to help when cholesterol is high. The trick is to measure cholesterol levels at least once every five years and to get what is called a ‘lipoprotein profile’. Is your cholesterol high? Managing cholesterol levels and making sure they are not high is in your hands so do the best you can for your health.

Why Diets Backfire

Diets just don’t work. When you really understand why, you can create the perfect weight management plan for yourself. We are bombarded with information about eating right and exercising but millions still battle their weight. Diets often impose food rules that most people do not, cannot or should not follow for very long.

Diet "experts" recommend counting calories, servings or points. Some diets require you to eat pre-packaged meals or eliminate entire food groups. Face it; if dieting was truly effective, the problem would have been solved with the first one!

Diets are not just doomed to fail; they’re doomed to backfire. Learn why so you can create the perfect weight management plan for yourself.

Your Body is Programmed to Survive
Your body has primitive, complex survival mechanisms that help keep you alive during limited periods of starvation. Now that food is abundant and readily available, most modern "famines" are the result of self-imposed diets. While it seems that diets backfire, this is really the result of your body adapting to being under-fueled.

When you follow a restrictive diet, you lose water, fat and muscle. The reason you lose muscle is that it burns calories so some of your muscle mass may be given up to lower your metabolism and "save you" from starvation.
If you return to your previous eating habits when the diet is over, your body quickly replaces its fat stores but not the muscle you lost. You’ll have a higher body fat percentage and a lower metabolism than before the diet. That is why you usually gain more than you lost in the first place.

Deprivation Can Lead to Cravings
But it is not just your body that rebels when you diet. Your mind rebels too. When certain foods are forbidden you feel deprived, leading to powerful cravings. Eventually, when you give in to the cravings for these "bad" foods, you’ll feel guilty and out of control. You may give up the diet and binge on the foods you’ve been missing. Of course, most dieters blame themselves when the diet fails, but in reality, dieting itself is to blame.

Diets Ignore the Rest of You
The biggest problem with diets is they focus on what and how much to eat without addressing why people eat in the first place.

Many people eat or overeat because of environmental triggers such as appealing food, automatic meal times and learned messages like "clean your plate." Many people eat due to emotional triggers like stress, boredom, loneliness, sadness or anger.

Since these triggers don’t go away simply by imposing a strict set of diet rules, you may try to cope with them by eating the "allowed foods." In other words, you never really give up emotional eating or learn other coping skills, so when the diet is over, you go right back to eating the way you did before.

So What Does Work?
At this point you are probably thinking, "If diets don’t work, what am I supposed to do?" To begin with, if the diet plan you’re considering isn’t something you can imagine doing for the rest of your life, then don’t bother doing it for a day!

It is time to face the fact that the key to solving your struggle with weight and food does not lie in a magical, or even a logical, combination of diet and exercise. The real solution lies in finally addressing your relationship with food and learning to recognize and effectively cope with your eating triggers.
Start by asking yourself "Am I hungry?" whenever you have and urge to eat. When you relearn to trust your innate ability to know when and how much to eat, you will begin to eat in a way that fuels your body, mind, and spirit.

Michelle May, M.D. is a recovered yoyo dieter and the award-winning author of Am I Hungry? What To Do When Diets Don’t Work. Learn to manage your weight without deprivation and guilt with Dr. May’s complimentary mini e-course here.

Dietary Supplements – Are They Dangerous?

Are dietary supplements really dangerous? A question without simple answer. Dietary supplements refer to any health products that can supplement our diet. They include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, digestive enzymes, Probiotics, herbal supplements, glandular extracts and dietary fibers etc .

The consumption of dietary supplements has been rising every year. Whereas many people believe that dietary supplements can improve their health or prevent certain diseases, some consumer groups or medical professionals have warned that dietary supplements can be dangerous. So, the question is: are dietary supplements really dangerous? Unfortunately, the question does not have a simple answer.

Dietary supplements, by its broad definition, include thousands of different products. In 2004, Consumer Reports listed 12 potentially dangerous dietary supplements. Many of them are herbal products. Some of these herbs have been used by herbalists for hundreds of years and are considered as safe. However, when the active substances in these herbs are extracted in pure or concentrated form and consumed over prolonged period, they can be dangerous to some people.

Many dietary supplements such as vitamins and minerals are safe and can supplement what is missing in our diet. However, even the benign supplement can become dangerous in overdose. In local news, a woman was reported to give her two teenage daughters mega dose of vitamin A for prolonged period, thinking that the supplement is good for the eyes. Both suffered from acute liver failure and one required a liver transplant to save her life. Vitamin A is not dangerous but mega dose of vitamin A is hepatotoxic. In this case, ignorance itself is dangerous!

The quality of dietary supplement is also an important factor. The presence of contaminations, such as heavy metal, drugs, and toxic substances can make a benign supplement dangerous. One example is the presence of microcystin toxin in blue green algae dietary supplements. Microcystins are natural toxins from certain strains of blue green algae that can cause liver damage and liver tumors. According to the research conducted by Health Canada, only one strain of blue green algae, Spirulina, is free from microcystins as Spirulina is harvested from controlled ponds. Most of the non-Spirulina blue green algae supplements are contaminated by microcystins, especially those harvested from natural lakes. Daily consumption of these dietary supplements would exceed the acceptable level of microcystin intake established by Health Canada and WHO.

Good manufacturing practice (GMP) is another key factor to safeguard the quality and safety of dietary supplements. Dietary supplement manufacturers in compliance of GMP standards have to test the identity of raw materials, implement a quality control unit, provide expiration date for the finished products, maintain good records of batch production and written procedures, and hire personnel who are trained to understand and follow GMP. This practice can reduce the chance of having batch to batch variation in strength, composition, purity and quality of finished products.

To sum up, although most dietary supplements are safe when consumed according to the label, consumers are advised to educate themselves before taking these supplements. What are the functions of these supplements? How long should I be taking them? Are they manufactured by reputable companies in compliance of good manufacturing practices? Never consume more than the recommended dose unless supervised by health care professionals. If you are pregnant, breast feeding, or suffering from pre-existing health conditions, you should also take extra precaution and consult with your doctors or nutritionists.

Kwan H Lo is the owner of a review site providing information on high quality dietary supplements such as New Chapter Vitamins and Garden of Life products.

Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet

During his 40 years of medical practice and in his nationally syndicated newspaper column, Dr. Gott's patients and readers have continually asked him for a way to lose weight that is both simple and foolproof. In response, he developed the No Flour, No Sugar diet which has prompted countless weight loss success stories from his patients, thousands of letters from readers of his column raving about...

How and Why the No Flour, No Sugar Diet Works

My No Flour, No Sugar Diet is not a magic pill, rather, it is a sensible way of eating that you’ll find easy to adopt, inexpensive to practice, and simple to maintain for the rest of your life. You’ll lose weight the optimal way -- slowly but surely -- and you’ll feel great, too. As I mentioned, fad diets require you to make drastic changes in your diet for rapid, if unhealthful, weight loss. My No Flour, No Sugar Diet involves incremental changes that will have long-term beneficial effects on your weight and your overall health.

No flour, no sugar = fewer caloriesThe key to weight loss is simply to burn more calories than you take in. In the simplest of terms, then, my No Flour, No Sugar Diet works because eliminating flour and added sugar from your diet, without making other changes, reduces the number of calories you consume. I have found, and my patients’ successes have verified, that eliminating flour and sugar from your diet is a simple way to cut calories instantly. Replacing high-calorie breads, for instance, with low-calorie vegetables and legumes will take a big chunk out of your caloric intake without leaving you feeling hungry or unsatisfied. Likewise, by replacing sugar and honey with no-calorie sweeteners, you can feed your sweet tooth while cutting calories.

To see how eliminating flour and sugar from your diet can dramatically reduce the number of calories you consume, let’s compare the caloric content of two breakfasts -- one with flour and sugar and one without. If you normally start your day with a bagel (about 250 calories) spread with a pat of butter (50 calories) and a tablespoon of strawberry jam (50 calories), and coffee with two teaspoons of sugar (30 calories), you’re eating about 380 calories. Simply switching to old-fashioned oatmeal (100 calories) with one cup of skim milk (90 calories), a medium apple (80 calories), and coffee with artificial sweetener (0 calories), will save you 110 calories. You will also have reduced your fat intake from 7.5 grams to 2 grams, increased your fiber from 1 gram to 7 grams, and added 400 milligrams of calcium. And that’s just breakfast.

As the above comparison clearly shows, eliminating flour and sugar from your diet is a simple way to rid your meals of many unnecessary calories. As an added bonus, you may find you’ll automatically reduce the amount of fat you eat. Without bread and jelly, for instance, what fun is high-fat peanut butter? No flour means no cheesy pizza, no pasta in cream sauce, and no buttery cookies. Eliminating sugar means no more fat-laden ice cream or cake with buttercream frosting.

One pound of fat is equivalent to 3,500 calories. In order to lose one pound in a week, you need to consume 500 fewer calories a day or burn 500 more a day -- or in a perfect world, a little of each. If you could make dietary changes such as those mentioned in the breakfast example above, cutting 110 calories from every meal you eat, you’d easily be more than half way there.

Avoid products containing any kind of flour, including wheat, rice, and corn flours, or refined or concentrated sugars (cane sugar, beet sugar, glucose, sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, maple syrup, honey, molasses, etc.). Whole grains and starchy vegetables, such as wheat berries, barley, brown rice, corn, and potatoes can add bulk to your meals. Satisfy your sweet tooth with fruit and products sweetened with fruit -- as long as they don’t contain added sugar. You can also enjoy sugar-free soda, chewing gum, and even many of the light ice creams now available that are sweetened with Splenda or other artificial sweeteners. Snack on raw vegetables and fresh fruit -- excellent low-calorie sources of important nutrients and fiber.

Cutting the unnecessary, or "empty," calories of flour-based, sugary foods from your diet is a simple and relatively painless way to move toward your goal. Add an extra half hour of physical activity a day -- a brisk walk, a game of tennis, or a spin on the treadmill -- and you can expect easily to lose a pound a week until you reach your desired weight.

Slow and steady wins the raceWhile calorie reduction is the key to losing weight, it is important to remember that calories are our bodies’ fuel. They provide the energy we need to perform normal daily activities. While consuming more calories than our bodies require leads to weight gain, it is important -- even while you’re trying to shed unwanted pounds -- to eat enough calories to get the nutrients and energy your body requires to function optimally. That is why diet and health experts generally agree that the most effective diets are those on which you lose no more than one to two pounds per week.

To facilitate fast and dramatic weight loss, many fad diets require you to decrease your caloric intake to levels that are inadequate to insure you’re getting the nutrients you need. Furthermore, weight that is lost quickly is very likely to come back just as fast when you stop starving your body. A slow, steady approach will maintain your health while producing the results you desire -- and you’re more likely to keep the weight off over time. You’ll have a bad week here and there, but don’t be discouraged. It happens to the best of us. Even if you don’t meet your one-pound goal in a given week, stick with the diet and the weight loss will average out over time.

A diet for (just about) everyoneBecause my No Flour, No Sugar Diet encourages eating a wide variety of foods from all of the food groups -- including ample amounts of nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains -- it is suitable for just about anyone, no matter what his or her age or activity level. Everyone, from young children to older adults, can benefit from cutting empty calories from highly processed foods out of their diet. People with specific medical conditions -- including diabetes, coronary heart disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, and so on -- are advised to seek the advice of the medical specialist who is treating them for that condition before making any major changes in their diet or activity level. That said, the No Flour, No Sugar Diet provides guidelines for healthy eating that can be adapted to suit a wide range of special dietary or medical needs.

The average American today consumes 500 more calories per day than in 1970.

Copyright © 2006 Peter H. Gott, MD from the book Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet by Peter H. Gott, MD with Robin Donovan; Published by Warner Wellness; January 2007;$21.99US/$27.50CAN; 978-0-446-58248-3

Peter H. Gott, MD, is the author of the nationally syndicated newspaper column ''Ask Dr. Gott." His articles have appeared in USA Today, the New England Journal of Medicine, Saturday Review, and other publications. He has a general practice in rural Connecticut. Visit http://www.twbookmark.com/ for more information.

Calming nervousness with diet

Nervousness and anxiety affects may people to greater or lesser extent. Whilst medication may be the key for some people, a nutritional overhaul to ensure you are receiving all the essentials may bring some relief and assist in the treatment of nervousness. Anxiety or nervousness is a common brain and nervous disorder that many experience sometime or another. It is characterized by extreme panic and fear, uncontrolled and obsessive thoughts, nightmares and could even have symptoms like nausea, muscle tension, headaches and stomachaches. A person could feel unconnected, dizzy, uncontrolled and suffer from palpations, chills and hot flushes.

There are several prescription drugs which are used in the treatment of anxiety disorder. Lorazepam, alprazolam, and buspirone are often prescribed along with antidepressants. Sometimes hormonal secretion from the thyroid or adrenal glands cause nervousness and need specific treatment. Psychological counseling may also be useful in the treatment of nervousness.

Food and well-being have been associated with mood since ancient times. Carbohydrates are known to be good mood elevators. They act as mild tranquilizers through increasing serotonin which is a calming neurotransmitter in the brain. It is better to eat complex carbohydrates such as potatoes, whole wheat bread and pasta as they take longer to digest and thus one feels full for longer.

Vitamin B, especially B-6, also helps in the manufacture of serotonin in the brain. Supplements of Vitamin B6 have been used in the treatment of anxiety disorder. Food rich in antioxidants together with essential fats help in improving energy levels and may relieve the feelings of anxiety. Dehydration may also add to anxiety and nervousness, so it is advisable to ensure a good fluid intake. Hot drinks may have a calming effect, but try avoid excess caffeine. Herbal teas and hot milky drinks may be especially helpful, especially before bed.

There is ongoing research regarding specific vitamins and minerals in the treatment of nervousness. Inositol, a cyclic polyalcohol, plays an important role as a second messenger in a cell. Though it is classified as a B vitamin, it is not really a vitamin as the human body can synthesize it. It has been used to help people suffering from panic attacks and relieves the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder. A trial has shown that when it is supplemented with multivitamins, it can reduce anxiety or nervousness. It is found in many foods, especially those with high bran content. Magnesium has also proved to be an important reliever of anxiety and so may present another useful nutrient to supplement in the treatment of nervousness.

There are many herbs associated with the treatment of nerbvousness. Herbal chamomile tea is often used to combat insomnia(www.mitamins.com/disease/Insomnia.html) associated with anxiety attacks. Passion flower, bacopa and kava are also used in herbal tonics given to reduce anxiety. A drink made of the root of kava and used extensively in Polynesia is a well known relaxant. In one study when used for one week, it helped subjects to reduce both depression and high anxiety levels and nervousness. These herbs must be taken under supervision as they could have other side effects.

Sometimes dieting though calorie reduction and using diet pills can contribute to anxiety disorder. Diets should be undertaken with care and it may be important to seek professional guidance. Reducing and perhaps even cutting out alcohol and coffee have shown remarkable improvement in the levels of anxiety for some people and generally assist with the treatment of nervousness.

Acidity and Diet prevent indigestion and GERD

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It’s surprising how many people are laid low by high acidity. Over the counter prescriptions may help but they sometimes leave behind a sensation of extreme discomfort. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD) is a condition in which stomach contents, including acid, back up (reflux) into the esophagus, causing inflammation and damage to the esophagus. Basically, acid is needed for digestion but some people secrete more than necessary. This irritates the duodenum and the stomach linings. It may even lead to ulcers in the stomach. The treatment of GERD is not clear cut but there are few things worth considering.

The symptoms of GERD are a burning pain in the chest behind the sternum or breastbone, a burning or aching pain in the upper abdomen usually accompanied by acid reflux. There are many causes for GERD. For some people there is a natural tendency for the stomach to produce more acid or because of a weakness in the normal sphincter mechanism. In this case it commonly occurs after eating, lifting weights or straining. GERD can also be exacerbatted by the consumption of foods with too much fat or spice, excess consumption of alcohol, coffee or tea, smoking and even over eating. Eating late or eating just before sleeping or sometimes even medication can cause acidity. The treatment of GERD in part, requires the correcting of bad dietary habits.

Since diet is major contributor to symptoms, changes in diet and behaviour associated with eating may help in the treatment of GERD. Try to eat regular small meals, and avoid eating until bloated and full. Keep liquids separate from meals time, to prevent over-filling the stomach. Try to avoid oily and spicy foods. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables however keep highly acidic varieties to a minimum (oranges, tomatoes, grapefruit). Try to cut down on processed and refined foods, especially carbohydrates - choose whole-grains instead. Some people find that reducing or eliminating alcohol and caffeine is beneficial in the treatment of GERD.

Try to avoid vigorous activity for an hour or so after you have eaten, do not carry out task that require you to bend over (gardening, changing beds). Avoid lying down immediately after eating and try to eat at least 3 hours before going to bed.

Some remedies off the kitchen shelf, such as drinking aniseed and water, cumin and water, and chewing on cloves or cardamom could relieve acidity. A long term cure, however, can come about only with a dietary change as well as perhaps, a lifestyle change.

A Mediterranean Diet May Prevent Second Heart Attacks

If you search hard enough you will find information related to the mediterranean diet and how it helps prevent heart disease but what about a second heart attack. No one who has been through the trauma of an initial attack wants to repeat the experience of course. The following study found that there is hope with the Mediterranean diet supported by confirmation of previous studies relating to the Mediterranean population and their diet.

People who consumed a Mediterranean diet were 50 to 70 percent less likely to experience a repeat heart attack than those on a so called 'Western' diet, according to a study in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

The study was undertaken by researchers in France and monitored the death rates among more than 600 men and women who had experienced their first heart attack.

The research project was headed by Michel de Lorgeril, M.D., called the Lyon Diet Heart Study, says, "By making some simple dietary adjustments that are easy to understand and easy to follow, a person can improve his or her chances of avoiding a second heart attack and having a better quality of life. He said, "Results of the study are not surprising as they rather confirm previous population studies showing that the Mediterranean population may be relatively protected from coronary heart disease because of the foods they eat,"

For the record, the Mediterranean diet reported in this study is so named because it is similar, but not identical to that of the people living near the Mediterranean Sea. The diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals, fish, olive oil and beans.

There were 204 control subjects eating a Western diet and 219 experimental subjects participated in the final examination. Body mass index (a measure of body fatness), blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels were similar between the two groups. About 18 percent of both groups continued to smoke.

The group undertaking the Mediterranean diet had a 50-70 percent lower risk of recurrent heart disease determined by the three combinations of outcome measures. They were cardiac death and non-fatal heart attacks; cardiac death and non-fatal heart attack plus unstable angina (severe chest pain at rest), stroke, heart failure, pulmonary or peripheral embolism (blood clots in the lung or other parts of the body).

Unfortunately, only 83 people, approximately 40 percent of the control diet, and 144 individuals, or about 75 percent of the Mediterranean diet group, provided dietary information. Patients in the control diet group received dietary counseling only from their attending physician in contrast to those on the Mediterranean who were given instructions by the investigators.

Highlight: Dietary intake in the control group was well above the American Heart Association Step I guidelines that recommend individuals eat less than 30 percent of their total calories from fat and less than 10 percent from saturated fat. The AHA recommends the Step II diet for individuals who have had heart disease or who have blood cholesterol levels of 240 milligrams/deciliter (mg/dl) or higher. The Step II diet recommends that individuals limit their saturated fat intake to less than 7 percent of total calories and no more than 200 mg of dietary cholesterol per day, while keeping total fat intake to less than 30 percent of calories or even lower.

The control diet group averaged almost 34 percent of total calories from fat and almost 12 percent of total calories from saturated fat. The Mediterranean diet averaged 30 percent of total calories from fat and 8 percent of calories from saturated fat. While there was tremendous variation in daily dietary cholesterol within both groups, the control group averaged 312 mg and the Mediterranean group averaged 212 mg a day .

Everyone on the Mediterranean diet consumed more oleic and alpha-linolenic fatty acids but less linoleic than the control group. Oils high in alpha-linolenic or 'omega-3' fatty acids are found in high amounts in plants (canola) and certain nut oils whereas linoleic or 'omega-6' fatty acids are high in soya and sunflower oils. Dietary fiber intake was about three grams higher in the Mediterranean group than the control group suggesting a slightly higher intake of fruits and vegetables and whole grain products, providing large amounts of antioxidant vitamins and trace elements.

The study also found that high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and leukocytes, a type of white blood cell, were all associated with recurrent heart attacks.

Extrat from Science Daily: - Robert Eckel, M.D. chairman of the American Heart Association's Nutrition Committee, "In general, the study suggests that patients diagnosed with cardiovascular disease can significantly reduce the risk of dying or having another heart attack by following the AHA's Guidelines for Secondary Prevention, which include the Step II diet, other prudent lifestyle behaviors and the use of aspirin and other medications prescribed by their doctors. The fact that levels of LDL cholesterol were similar between the two diet groups and far above those established by the National Cholesterol Education Programs for patients with coronary heart disease suggests that additional benefit may have ensued in both groups with additional cholesterol-lowering drugs."

An editorial accompanying the journal article stated, Alexander Leaf, M.D., Jackson Professor of Clinical Medicine Emeritus at Harvard University Medical School, says, "One main message of the Lyon study is that the polyunsaturated oils (the omega-3) contained in the Lyon diet may be helpful in preventing second heart attacks." In the study population, higher plasma (blood) levels of omega-3 fatty acids were associated with a lower risk of a recurrent heart attack and other heart-related problems.

Author Ray Darken - Ray often writes for and works closely with copy of Mediterranean diet . If you'd like more news and broader access to diet and nutrition information try best life diet & Tips.

Dietary Changes for Acne Treatment?

Diet has been implicated in both the cause and the treatment of Acne for many years – but how much of this is folklore? We report on the latest scientific findings on dietary changes and nutritional supplements that may be beneficial for acne sufferers. Acne, pimples or "zits" as many sufferers call it, can be a real cause for depression. It is the most common of all skin diseases with around 17 million people in the USA alone afflicted with an acne problem. The official term, Acne Vulgaris describes a condition whereby the sebaceous glands of the skin become inflamed. If proper acne treatment is not sought these may develop into unsightly pustular cysts, and the end result may be permanent acne scars.

The causes of acne are varied and may include hormonal activity, stress, accumulation of dead skin cells and allergy to bacteria which are present in the pores of the skin. Sometimes it is a reaction to anabolic steroids and medication containing halogens, lithium, barbiturates or androgens. Some research suggests a role for food allergy, in the development of acne which implies the elimination of trigger foods could be helpful in the treatment of acne.

There are two types of acne: acne vulgaris and acne rosacea. Acne vulgaris is usually a bacterial infection of cysts deep within the skin. This could cause acne scarring if left untreated. Acne rosacea is a chronic inflammation of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, and eyelids. These show up as red eruptions. The teenage years seem to be the most troublesome for acne sufferers but it can also occur in adulthood and well into middle age.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and a healthy nutrient intake may improve its tone and quality. Although a diet of fried food, chocolates and other junk food does not directly cause acne, there is evidence that changes in diet may be helpful in the treatment of acne.

A study conducted by the US Colorado State University showed a link between refined carbohydrates and processed foods like sugar, white bread, pizza, cake and pastries, and acne. These cause a series of reactions in the body that increase the production of acne-causing bacteria. Refined carbohydrates also cause the body to produce a high level of insulin which increases the production of male hormones that cause acne. A decrease in your intake of refined carbohydrates may be beneficial in the treatment of acne. Instead try to include more whole grains, pulses and complex carbohydrates.

Furthermore it is now thought that obesity and insulin resistance may also play a role in the development of acne so dietary changes to assist in achieving an ideal weight are likely to be beneficial to the treatment of acne.

There is some research linking higher milk consumption intake to acne. If you normally include large amounts of milk in your diet, you could try reducing this and seeing if this is an effective acne solution for you. Ensure you include other calcium rich foods instead such as green vegetables, fish with soft bones, almonds and soymilk.

Omega 3 fish oils and antioxidants vitamins may also be important. Vitamin A (also in the form of beta-carotene which is converted in vitamin A) is thought to reduce acne symptoms. It is involved in strengthening the protective tissue of the skin and reducing sebum production. Additionally it helps in maintaining and repairing skin tissue and increasing toxin excretion which may be an important part of the acne solution.

Chromium supplements may be a useful adjunct in the treatment of acne via the role in clearing infections and preventing further breakouts. Zinc is a good antibacterial agent; it helps control the oil-producing glands of the skin. Eating zinc-rich foods could help in reducing acne, such foods include red meat and offal, pumpkin seeds, and mushrooms.

A role for vitamin E in the treatment of acne has also been suggested due to its anti-oxidant action and regulatory effect on vitamin A levels within the body. Vitamin E requirement can be easily met through natural sources such as almonds, corn, eggs and leafy green vegetables. However you can also try supplementing with synthetic forms and monitor any changes in your acne.

One of the most important aspects of your acne treatment is to drink at least eight glasses of water. This cleans the body of waste and keeps it free of toxins. Water helps in circulation, digestion, absorption and excretion.

Unfortunately changes in diet alone may not provide a total acne solution. There are a variety of drugs available for the treatment of acne, in addition to an array of natural remedies. It may be advisable to visit a dermatologist for a proper consultation in conjunction to any dietary changes you want to introduce.

Mitamins team
bd@mitamins.net
Mitamins' aim is to custom-made the best natural remedies to complement the treatment of your concerns. Our unique process allows you to combine multiple formulas into a single formula, in a single bottle, and avoid overdose and interactions.

8 Tips To Create Rapid Weight Loss Diet Plan

An effective option for people who want to achieve rapid weight loss. The following list of rapid weight loss diet tips will hopefully help point you in the direction of your weight loss goal. Here are 8 tips to help speed up your rapid weight loss diet.

1. Ensure a good daily intake of vegetables, especially the leafy green ones. Such foods are rich in vitamins and minerals.

2. Take high fiber. This may help with a number of minor conditions, such as, constipation, as well as having long term health benefits. High fiber foods include: beans, pulses, fruits and vegetables, as well as the cereals.

3. Make a varied and interesting diet. Eating a limited range of foods may make it difficult to obtain adequate amounts of all the nutrients required. Eating should be a pleasure and a social event - so try to take pleasure and interest in the food you are eating. A good variety also helps reduce the development of food allergies and sensitivities.

4. Drink lots of water. Drink at least 6 - 8oz glasses of water each day. Weight loss depends on flusing your system out, and you must stay hydrated during that process. Nothing slows down your more that no keeping it hydrated. Water helps speed up weight loss and it helps keep your stomach filled between small meals. If you are constantly in hot weather make sure you are always replenishing fluids that you are losing.

5. Up your protein take. Make sure you are eating lean protein with every meal. It helps build muscle tissue and will help your weight loss. Some types of lean protein are Roast Beef, Turkey, Eye of Round Steaks, Chicken and Fish.

6. Make breakfast. Eating a healthy breakfast is the most important thing you can do each and every day. Never skip breakfast, it kicks starts your metabolism and gives you energy throughout the day.

7. Keep the intake of sugars and fats to a minimum. The fats to be avoided are the saturated fats and the trans-fatty acids.

8. Exercise is extremely important. It is necessary to indulge in mild physical activity after each meal even if you cannot make time to go to a gym.

I hope you use these tips to help speed up your rapid weight loss diet plan. Rapid weight loss diet plan info provides detailed information on Fast Weight Loss Diet - http://www.fatloss2idiots.info/.

Mediterranean Diet: Should You Drink Wine or Eat Grapes?

Many studies have shown that red wine may have a protective effect for the heart. Do red grapes have the same effect? Should we trade grapes for wine? The French paradox
In studies conducted in 1992, it was observed that in southern France, mortality rates from heart disease were lower than expected despite the consumption of diets high in saturated fat. Researchers attributed the impressive low incidence of heart disease, 50 percent lower than in the Unites States, to the consumption of red wine. Since then, the possibility that drinking red wine might protect our heart arteries, has made the topic "wine and health" extremely popular. In fact, research has shown that taken in moderation -two 8 ounces glasses for men and 1 glass for women per day, red wine may increase HDL cholesterol, the "good" guy, decrease LDL cholesterol, the "bad" one, prevent oxidation of LDL, and scavenge free radicals.

What is the secret in red wine?

Since the discovery of the "French Paradox" puzzle in 1992, researchers have been trying to pinpoint why red wine has a cardiovascular protective effect. While studies have been focusing in the antioxidant properties of red wine, evidence suggests other mechanisms by which it might be beneficial for our health. Research points toward a family of substances called polyphenols which are found in plants and are abundant in grapes. Polyphenols are part of a larger family known as phytochemicals.

Phytochemicals: Medicine of the future

The word "phyto" means "plant" in Greek. Phytochemicals are nonnutritive chemicals found in plants that protect us against diseases. Many fruits and vegetables contain a wide variety of phytochemicals; in fact, researchers have identified by now more then 900 different phytochemicals in foods and they are not done yet, since every day they discover new ones. It is estimated that there may be more than 100 different phytochemicals in just one serving of fruit or vegetables. Studies have long shown that phytochemicals are present in plants to protect them, but only recently we have learned that they are also crucial in protecting humans against diseases. We know that people who consume plant foods regularly have a lower incidence of heart disease than people who do not include them in their diet.

How can phenol-phytochemicals protect our arteries?

Polyphenols can protect our arteries through the following mechanisms:
• Lowering LDL cholesterol in the blood. A study conducted to evaluate the effect of moderate Sicilian red wine consumption on cardiovascular risk factors found out that at the end of the red wine intake period, 4 weeks, LDL cholesterol and oxidized LDL had significantly decreased, while HDL Cholesterol and the total antioxidant capacity of the blood had increased¹.
• Recycling vitamin E as an antioxidant. This is very important because vitamin E represents the first line of defense against LDL oxidation. Once vitamin E is exhausted, LDL cholesterol is no longer protected until the vitamin can be reactivated by agents such as polyphenols.
• Increasing the production of nitric oxide, a substance that causes the arteries and veins to relax.
• Preventing platelets from sticking to the inside walls of the arteries. Platelets are tiny particles found in the blood that play an important part in the clotting process².

Red versus white wine
White wines have shown the ability to prevent the oxidation of LDL but generally are not as effective as red wines. Polyphenol content of red wine can be about 20 times higher than in white wine and it has been observed in several studies that the antioxidant potential of red wine is six to ten times higher than white wine. About eight times more of white wine is required to produce an effect equal to red wine on preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Three factors account for these results:

• Grape skins are not included in the production of white wine.
• Red wine is made with whole grapes, including skins
• The skins of red grapes contain higher amounts of polyphenols than the skins of white grapes.

Wine or grapes for healthy arteries?

If the polyphenols in grapes are mostly in the skins, can we just have red grapes or red grape juice, which is also made with the grape skins, and obtain the same beneficial effects as drinking red wine? Yes, we can, researchers tell us.
This study, among others, showed that red grape juice and dealcoholized red wine can significantly reduce arterial disease by lowering the level of oxidized cholesterol, preventing platelets to stick together, and enhancing the production of nitric oxide³. In another study, grape juice proved to be more effective than red wine or dealcoholized red wine in inhibiting arterial disease at the same polyphenol dose. The researchers concluded that grape juice or non-alcoholic red wine are an excellent alternative to red wine when in comes to disease of the arteries.

Conclusion

Although research has shown that in the absence of contraindications, moderate red wine drinking, two 8 ounces glasses for men and 1 glass for women per day, may be beneficial to patients who have a cardiovascular condition, those health effects disappear very fast and can have serious health implications when we abuse drinking. And since studies indicate that most of the beneficial effects of drinking red wine are attributable to the polyphenols present in grapes, we may conclude that a diet that includes grapes as well as other fruits and vegetables containing polyphenols may be even more beneficial.

Research

1. G Avellone, G, Di Garbo, V, Campisi D, De Simone R, Ranel G, Scaglione R and LicataG. Effects of moderate Sicilian red wine consumption on inflammatory biomarkers of atherosclerosis European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2006) 60, 41–47. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602265.
2. Ruf JC. Alcohol, wine and platelet function. Biol Res. 2004;37(2):209-15.
3. Vinson, JA, Teufel, K, Wu, N. Red wine, dealcoholized red wine, and especially grape juice, inhibit atherosclerosis in a hamster model. Atherosclerosis. 2001 May; 156(1):67-72.
4. Folts, JD. Potential health benefits from the flavonoids in grape products on vascular disease. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2002; 505:95-111.

Emilia Klapp has a Bachelor in Nutrition Science, is certified as a Registered Dietitian by the American Dietetic Association and is the author of "Your Heart Needs the Mediterranean Diet". For more information about the author and the book and to get a list of the 10 Top Mediterranean curative foods, go to: www.Mediterraneanheart.com.