Best Weight Loss Diet Review - The Atkins Diet Assessment

The diet that people call the 'fry-up diet', The Atkins diet involves limited consumption of carbohydrates to switch the body's metabolism from metabolizing glucose as energy over to converting stored body fat to energy a process known as ketosis. In the two week introduction, food is very limited but you'll find yourself eating many foods the traditional dieter would die for like meat, eggs and cheese. So if you are a meat lover this is the diet for you. You can even cook with butter, put mayonnaise and on your salads (limited to loose leafy and 2-3 cups per day). You cannot eat any fruit and only quarter of a cup a certain cooked vegetables.

The diet does allow for adding fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain foods after the two-week induction period. However, even when some carbohydrates are introduced back into your diet you'll find yourself being forbidden from eating foods like pasta, white bread and cakes for life.

Then, over time, the transition from weight loss to weight maintenance is made by gradually increasing carbohydrates so long as gradual weight loss is maintained.

Exercise in all phases as part of a healthy lifestyle is now emphasized more than when the diet was first introduced.

Allowed Foods are as following:-

Meat, Poultry & Shellfish

Any meat including beef, lamb, pork, bacon; a juicy steak is a popular favorite! All poultry including chicken, turkey, goose and duck. If you fancy you can even eat pheasant, quail, ostrich or emu! All fish can be eaten in abundance. Any unprocessed shellfish can be eaten including crab, lobster, squid, oyster, clams, prawn and shrimps.

Vegetables

Many vegetables are allowed on the Atkins Diet. In fact, just about any vegetable you might wish to eat is permitted, with the exception of corn, potatoes, green peas, and other sweet or starchy vegetables. Dr. Atkins New Diet Revolution divides allowable vegetables into two groups: salad vegetables and other vegetables.

Fats

The beauty of this diet to me is that most fats are allowed! Yes you read that correctly. Cold-pressed vegetable oils are preferred, and it is important to include some source of omega-3 fatty acids, such as linseed oil or salmon. Butter is allowed but margarine is not. Olive oil, nut oils, seed oils, and vegetable oils are allowed. You may also include in cooking, any fat that is part of your meat. Happy Days!

Dairy

Most dairy products are permitted on the Atkins Diet with the exception of milk and yoghurts. In fact, it is recommended that you actually choose those that are full-fat and as low in carbohydrate as possible! Wow... that mean full fat cheeses are allowed whether hard or soft and diet cheese, spreads not be eaten. However, happily, all cream including cheese and butter may be eaten. Cheese: full-fat cow, goat, or sheep's milk cheeses, as well as soy cheese, are permitted, and it doesn't even matter if they are hard or soft cheeses. No diet cheese, cheese spread, processed cheese food, or whey cheese is allowed. Shame, hey I thought not.

Other permitted dairy: Heavy cream, light cream, sour cream, cream cheese, and butter are allowed. It actually encourages you to avoid fat-free or reduced fat options!

Condiments and Spices

It surprised me to learn that it is important to be careful when choosing condiments whilst on the Atkins plan. Sugar in any form is expressly forbidden, and most people are surprised to learn how many of their favorite condiments, dressings, and spice blends contain some form of sugar. For this reason, most salad dressings are not permissible unless you can find sugar and starch free options.

My take on this is you can easily make your own sauces and dressings that tasty without the use of sugar.

Drinks

You can drink almost any beverage whilst on the Atkins program. However, there are three taboos that must be adhered to and these are sugar in any form, caffeine, and fruit juice. You cannot have milk in your tea and coffee with weirdly, you can have cream!

Sweeteners

Any artificial, non-sugar sweetener is permitted on the Atkins food list. If you prefer a natural sweetener, you may use Stevia-- an intensely sweet herb that is available in most health food and grocery stores. Basically, all natural sugars including honey are prohibited. Now this where I would find the Atkins diet difficult; this would excludes cakes, biscuits, chocolate.

Conclusion

I adore meat, salad and other vegetables but I also love bread and chips. I just cannot imagine living for the rest of my life without eating another sandwich or piece of toast let alone never having another doughnut or cake. It would be possible for me to actually enjoy this diet for a short period whilst I lost weight but as for a life long diet... maybe it's not for me. How about you?

I hope you enjoyed this Diet review. If you want to read more articles about weight loss and dieting check out http://www.bestweightlossdietreview.moneysites.com

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Increase Your Confidence With Weight Loss

Lack of confidence is common amongst many people around the world, and this is due to a number of reasons. It is my opinion that being overweight and/or unhealthy plays a major role in how you feel about yourself. If you are not satisfied with how you look, you will never be able to fulfill your potential because your insecurities will hold you back from accomplishing what you wish to accomplish. If you want to be successful in life, don't just aim to do more, but aim to be more. Be healthy and fit and you will feel amazing and naturally accomplish more. If you struggle with weight loss, it is likely that you struggle in other areas of your life as well. Losing weight can not only improve your health and levels of confidence, but it will also translate into greater success in almost everything you do.

If you have a difficult time losing weight, I want to let you know that there is hope for you, because I was once in your shoes. I spent years trying to get down to my ideal weight, and could never get the results I hoped for. Very recently however, I began doing a few things that have greatly enhanced my health and done wonders for my weight loss. I would like to share a couple of those things with you.

First of all, I began to transition into a healthier diet. This is something that is crucial if you want to lose weight and keep it off. However, do not overwhelm yourself, or else you will have a hard time maintaining a healthy diet. Begin to slowly incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, and begin to slowly eliminate all sugary and processed foods. The easy way to do this is to simply begin buying healthy foods when you go to the grocery store, and completely avoid the aisles with processed foods. Avoid food that comes in boxes or cans the best you can. This is a slow process. Don't try to do it overnight, but recognize that healthy eating is a lifestyle, not a diet.

The second method I use for losing weight fast is called intermittent fasting. This involves skipping one or two meals every day in order to allow the body the time it needs to detoxify itself and burn fat stores. There are a large number of benefits that intermittent fasting offers, and I highly recommend that you research more about it and incorporate it into your routine.

To learn more about intermittent fasting, visit http://www.intermittentfasting4life.com
For health and/or fitness tips, visit my blog: http://www.healthandhappinessfoundation.com/?page_id=36

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How to Become Female Fitness Models

Unlike their counterparts in the fashion modeling industry, female fitness models focus on the promotion of a healthy image of the body. As such, the highest degree of focus is on their bodies, not on what they have on (usually, all they have on is a scant piece of clothing so as to expose as much as is possible). Thus, fitness models dedicate large slabs of their time to staying in peak shape and eating healthy foods. It should be noted however that although one needs to be a hundred percent committed to fitness and healthy dieting, it is not a requirement to possess the measurements of a star athlete in order to pursue a career in modeling. This article highlights steps to take in order to establish a modeling career in fitness.

The first thing to do is stay in shape. This does not mean peaking for a few days then relaxing and gobbling platefuls of food for days on end. Professional boxers may be allowed to do this (their careers are hard enough on them) but female fitness models have no such allowance. For the model, the body is not only her temple; it also doubles up as the source of her income. In a very competitive industry, it is vital to stay in great shape at all times. Usually, this type of modeling requires a lean body, toned muscles and very little body fat. Some female models are bulkier than their counterparts, though all this lies in the preference of the model. Exercise and clean dieting go hand in hand to building and maintaining a great body.

The next step is to gain education on the art of posing. Being a model is more than just looking tight and superb. It is arguable that proper posing is just as important as the condition of the physique and as such, can build or trash one's career. Posing, especially just a few meters away from a camera, takes a serious amount of practice. One of the ways to help improve on posing is to take as many photographs of oneself as is possible. It is also prudent to hire a modeling coach as well as looking through fitness magazines and doing one's best to imitate the poses present. The next step is to develop a portfolio, and painstakingly so. A portfolio is basically a collection of one's best photographs. It offers one a chance of impressing potential agents and employers. The things to do are either to employ a professional photographer, or purchase a top quality camera in order to take well updated photos of oneself. The portfolio ought to be updated every two weeks at the very most.

It is of paramount importance that one finds an agent. To succeed in getting a modeling professional job, it is a must for one to be represented by a professional who understands the facets of the field. The agent basically represents, matches one with the right-fitting jobs and alerts one on opportunities that may have arisen. One should do proper research on the right agent, send a portfolio to him or her and make sure to set up a payment arrangement before diving into the contract signing process. There are agents who charge higher commissions than others.

The final step is to seek for modeling jobs. Without this vital step, the previous steps lack much meaning. It is essential to be proactive and not necessarily sit and wait for the agent to seek jobs for one.

female fitness models focus on the promotion of a healthy image of the body.

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The Super Food For Better Health and Fitness

Nutritionists and Trainers are often asked if there's any "special" food they should add to their daily diet so as to gain better health, improve muscle quality, fitness and speed up weight-loss. And while, yes, there certainly is, I've always hesitated to reveal that information.

However, if you discovered a simple food, that, by eating just a few ounces of it once a week, you gained more health-benefits than a dozen of the foods you currently eat, yet it cost only a fraction of what the same quantity of the cheapest tofu or hamburger mince does, wouldn't you want to know about it?

No? Then read no further.

However, if the possibilities intrigue you, read on!

Our pre-historic ancestors somehow sensed the value of this nutrient-dense food and ate lots of it, as often as possible. It's packed with natural vitamins, including the anti-oxidant, Vitamin A, which is essential for eye-health, night-vision, fertility, digestion, a functioning immune-system and normal growth. This nutritional super-star also contains huge quantities of the Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12 and folic acid. It's been estimated that more than one third of the population suffers deficiency in B12, which is the "anti-fatigue" vitamin, essential for the prevention of muscle-soreness, anxiety, poor digestion, impotence, incontinence, unsteady gait and dementia.

It's also rich in Vitamin D. You're probably aware that Vitamin D is critical to health, not only in the absorption of calcium for bone strength, but also for the regulation of most of the body's chemical reactions, nerve responses, the synthesis of our hormones and has a preventive effect on breast cancer.

Vitamin D deficiency affects 25% of children under eleven years of age and occurs in many adults who don't get enough sun-exposure due to where they live, especially in winter.

Oops! I skipped Vitamin C! Four ounces of this tasty morsel contains more than 50% of the daily requirement which is essential for stress-relief, skin-health and the flexibility and integrity of the arteries. That's more than an orange provides!

Not enough Vitamin C can lead to atherosclerosis and a likely stroke or heart attack. Vitamin C also plays an important role in the absorption of iron, which this food absolutely abounds in. And for women, that's critical for the health of the blood and the prevention of anemia.

But while on the subject of iron, this inexpensive super-food is loaded with it as well as phosphorous, copper and magnesium. Growing children need more of this nutritional fare as it also provides the medium-chain fatty-acids critical for brain development along with iodine which prevents goiter.

What else? Oh, yes, Vitamin E - and how about the very important Omega-3 fats including EPA, DHA and also Vitamin K which works in conjunction with Vitamin D and calcium for bone integrity and is essential for the coagulation of blood when we suffer bleeding injuries. This high-energy food-star contains both of the natural forms, K1 and K2, which have been shown to help in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease and certain forms of cancer.

Wow! A super-food that provides so many vitamins, nutrients and health benefits along with disease prevention? It must be expensive, no?

Sadly, vegans and vegetarians miss out on this valuable source of essential nutrients and vitamins which are provided in just one, four-ounce serving per week of calf liver. If you are a practicing, but open-minded vegan or vegetarian you owe it to yourself to read my e-report What are We Supposed to Eat and ask yourself, "Why?"

Meat-eater or not, maybe you're convinced you don't like the taste or texture of liver, so why not disguise it by adding it into hamburger mince or meat loaf? You'll never even know it's there but you can still enjoy the benefits!

Liver, marinated in lemon juice, not over-cooked, and combined with grilled onions and tomatoes is definitely the healthiest, and to my mind, one of the most sumptuous meals available.

Here's to your Good Health!

Luigi Kleinsasser

Luigi Kleinsasser is a certified fitness instructor and diet counsellor specializing in general health improvement through weight-management and effective fitness programs. His website is [http://www.luigiwho.com].

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Healthy Food Tips: Top 5 Best Muscle Building Foods for Fitness Enthusiasts

A diet rich in protein and complex carbohydrates is essential for building lean muscle and losing excess fat. Proper nutrition requires some basic knowledge, discipline, and consistency. When you work out, the stress of weight lifting damages muscle fibers. In order for your body to recover, you need to consume quality foods that contain amino acids and carbs. The foods you eat on a daily basis are responsible for helping you recover from your workout sessions.

Here are top five best muscle building foods for fitness enthusiasts:

Chicken

Chicken is a preferred choice among bodybuilders and athletes worldwide. This food is cheap and easy to cook. One chicken breast has approximately 25 grams of protein and less than 130 calories. For a rich flavor, you can marinate chicken in seasoned fruit juice. Use bold seasonings like minced hot peppers, infused vinegar, and curry.

Lean Ground Beef

If you want to put on some muscle, include beef into your diet. This type of meat is an excellent source of zinc and iron, two essential muscle building nutrients. Beef also contains two grams of creatine for every 16 ounces. Red meat is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Each cut has a different amount of fat, protein, and calories. Beef doesn't contain any carbohydrates.

Almonds

Almonds are one of the best sources of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps the body fight against free radical damage after strenuous physical activity. Recent studies have shown that men who eat almonds on a regular basis have a 67 percent lower risk of Alzheimer's disease. Almonds also contain protean and healthy fats. They are the perfect snack for satisfying late-morning hunger.

Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds provide 25 grams of protein per 100 grams. Available both shelled and unshelled, they can be eaten roasted or row. Sunflower foods are rich in fiber, which helps improve digestion. In addition to protein and fiber, they contain vitamin E, linoleic acid, selenium, and vitamin B2. These essential nutrients support lean muscle growth, boost energy levels, and promote healthy adrenal glands.

Brown Rice

Brown rich is loaded with complex carbohydrates and fiber, providing a sustained release of energy throughout the day. The American Dietetics Association recommends active individuals to have a diet rich in complex carbohydrates from quinoa, whole wheat pasta, oats, brown rice, and sweet potatoes. Whether you want to lose fat and get ripped before a fitness competition, or you are trying to build muscle, brown rice should be on your list.

Whether you want to build muscle, lose weight, or have more energy, search for healthy food tips before starting a new diet. Proper nutrition should be a priority for those who want to stay healthy and maintain their body weight. At DSM Food, you can learn how to prepare tasty meals and choose the right foods for your diet.

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Top Five Fitness Foods For Women

Once you decide to lose weight. It is important that you eat well. You should take such foods that keep you fit and energetic, even during your workout. The nutritional requirements of a woman differ from those of a man. Women should take special care of themselves once they reach thirties.

I am mentioning below some important fitness foods for women.

Soy Protein. Soy is one of the top five fitness food for women. Soy is a great source of protein, especially for vegetarians. Soy is found in tofu, or soymilk. You can even boil the whole grains of soy and eat in salads. Soy also helps your heart function better, as it reduces the bad cholesterol. It also helps in balancing women hormones.

Cranberry helps in preventing the urinary tract infection, which is so very common with women. This wonder fruit is also good for heart.

Green leafy vegetables: Vegetable such as spinach, lettuce etc. are amazingly good for women. These vegetable provide vital nutrients and are also rich in fiber. These vegetables help in flushing out the toxins from your body and also help you in weight loss.

Nuts; Nuts are also one of the top five fitness food for women. Nuts are a great source of energy. They are full of protein, calcium, zinc, phosphorus vitamin and vitamin c and many more nutrients.They also contain high level of menstruated fat, which makes them heart friendly. Please be care full while eating them, they are high on calories.

Calcium foods. Calcium rich foods are important for women because they are good for the bones. If a woman in her thirties takes calcium rich diet and also does weight lifting exercises. She would reduce her risk of osteoporosis by more than 50%.Calcium is found in low fat dairy products, dark leafy vegetables and tofu.

Learn how to eliminate belly fat and get "ripped". Collect Your free ebook on diet and nutrition. Click Here [http://www.totalweightlossprogram.com/]!

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Home Fitness Exercise - Keeping Off Those Extra Pounds

Our diet and our lifestyle have made us vulnerable to weight problems these days. Our busy schedules often leave us no time to cook healthy food at home or take a few minutes to exercise daily. Unfortunately, the combination of bad food and less exercise can have some really serious effects in our bodies. After a few months of eating fast foods, most of us put on a lot of extra pounds that are hard to shake off. Fortunately, a home fitness exercise program and some high fiber food taken regularly can help us shed off a few extra pounds within just a short period of time. What is more interesting about the whole thing is that if we stick to our home fitness workout program and our high fiber diet, we may be able to keep the extra pounds from coming back.

Getting Into A Home Fitness Exercise Program

A simple home fitness exercise program will only take a few minutes to perform. According to experts, 15-20 minutes exercise daily will already make a lot of difference. If you are really serious about shedding off those extra pounds, you need to make little adjustments in your daily schedule. For instance, if you want to exercise before you leave for work, just set your alarm clock about 20 minutes earlier than your usual wake up time. With that 20 minutes head start, you can already do a lot of things. Besides, doing exercise in the morning can help you stay awake and active for most parts of the day. Moreover, according to experts, doing some exercises early in the morning will help improve your blood circulation to your brain so you will most likely be in top mental condition when you get to the office.

On the other hand, if you are not a morning person and you do not like the idea of starting your day with a home fitness exercise routine, you can do your workout after you get home from work. No, you are not too tired to workout after office hours. Unless your work involves manual activities, you will still have a lot of energies to spare for a exercise routine when you get home. Besides, doing a home exercise routine a couple of hours before bed time will help you sleep better later on. Exercise is a very good stress buster and it helps you unwind after a very busy day at the office.

On the other hand, if you are not a morning person and you do not like the idea of starting your day with a home fitness exercise [http://www.fitness.jsgenterprises.com/6.5.home-fitness-home-fitness-exercise.html] routine, you can do your workout after you get home from work. No, you are not too tired to workout after office hours. Unless your work involves manual activities, you will still have a lot of energies to spare for a exercise routine when you get home. Besides, doing a home exercise routine a couple of hours before bed time will help you sleep better later on. Exercise is a very good stress buster and it helps you unwind after a very busy day at the office...To view another article on home fitness visit [http://www.fitness.jsgenterprises.com/6.6.home-fitness-home-fitness-workout.html]

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Can I Lose Belly Fat With a Home Fitness DVD Program?

Often when trying to lose belly fat using a home fitness DVD program is considered. Can you lose belly fat with a home fitness DVD program? A workout program is the best way to lose belly fat and a home fitness DVD program fits the bill. A program at home and on DVD allows for a more flexible schedule and with a variety of DVDs it can always be something new.

Using a DVD program is like having your own personal trainer. Nevertheless, you create your own program and workout at your own time. You could do strength training one day, yoga the next and cardio every other day. There are many combination and all you need to do is find what works for you.

There are DVD program focusing on losing belly fat with many different approaches. Variety of DVDs types work with you and target the areas you want to tone or exercise. Having varied approaches will keep you excited about your program and allow you to pick a routine depending on your mood that day. Different levels are available too, which helps you create the program you need. Finding the right approach will lead to your desired outcome.

When it comes to losing belly fat you will be working not only on reducing fat, but defining the muscles in the belly area. Target your abdominal muscles, oblique muscles as well as your back. Using weights is a good idea to help tone your focus muscles. When you start your home fitness program you could exercise alone or get a group together to help with motivation and make it more fun. No matter what you do you are in charge of your program. Try to challenge yourself from time to time as well as changing your routine and adding new elements.

So Does P90x Work? For more answers and information on all Beachbody products you'll be able to find more articles written by Macus Ochoa.

Marcus Ochoa is an Independent Beachbody Coach. To find out more information on him and Beachbody's home business opportunity you can visit his blog.

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Jennifer Nicole Lee - The Fitness Model Program Home Workout

She has won bikini contests and fitness model contests, you see her on TV and magazine covers, lithe, toned and tanned. You won't recognize her in her old clothes though, that's because she used to weigh 200 lbs!

Jennifer Nicole lee is a certified fitness trainer and a nutritionist- a knock-out combination for getting a knock-out look. She is the author of the "fitness model program" this is the same program that she used to dump 70 lbs of unwanted weight and fat in a very short time.

Using only dumb bells and a few simple exercise equipment, Jennifer Nicole lee or JNL for short, has devised a unique and effective workout regimen that targets mom's who want to get their figure back after pregnancy but want to do it at home.

This program of course is not only for post-pregnancy moms, but for overweight out-of-shape women of all ages and sizes.

What makes it particularly special, is that moms can work-out with their babies, using baby as a "weight training aid" and making it fun for the infant as well! It is a joyful bonding experience for both mother and child and this is why moms love it! - and it solves the "I don't have time to go to the gym" excuse.

Aside from baby's weight, you will be using standard exercise equipment like skipping rope and a few light dumb-bells for a 30-45 minute workout. The program is divided into phases where you will step-up the intensity to get you losing that fat and dropping those pounds like nobody's business!

Because of the effectiveness of JNL's Fitness Model Workout, Oprah has featured her on her show, showing before and after pictures of JNL when she was 200 lbs and sixty days later at 130 lbs - seventy pounds without working out in a gym, just smart exercise and a reasonable diet.

Working out at home has never been more effective and fun, you can check out our blog for more info on JNL fitness.

FOr more effective post-pregnancy home workouts with baby visit [http://fitnessmodelprogramforyou.com]

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Weight Loss Programs the Best Option

The first few things that you must keep in mind while making the choice in a weight loss program, are as follows. It should have a balanced exercise and weight training program, and an eating plan with a rich nutritious value. Then it must also explain how to set a goal for yourself, and then how to keep a record of any changes taking place. And a guide to increase or decrease the tempo as required.

Track Your Weight Regularly

Not only you need to weigh yourself, on and off, you also must keep record of the changes in waist, hips, and any other place you feel is on the heavier side. The best diet plan is to expend more energy than the food you have taken, this will result in a slow but sure decrease in weight, without a feeling of weakness. And there is no shortcut to weight loss. If you want to go on a crash diet, don't do it, because you will lose a lot of body energy and it could even make you sick. Take care not to go for some medicine or tablets as they might have side effects. And anyway no medication should be done without the supervision and subscription of a doctor.

Right weight loss program

One way of going on a weight loss program is to find your own limitation. Staying within those parameters and having your own regimen is one of the best options. Research a good book on nutrition and keep your diet as close to the guide lines given. Contrary to popular belief weight training in not essential to weight loss, but if you can do it in moderation, it will help. And if you can keep your lower body active by jogging and upper by weight training, then you are in effect using up more calories, and the more you burn the slimmer you will get.

Enjoy Sports to Stay Fit.

If you engage in a sport cum fitness pastime like swimming and cycling, then it will let you enjoy your weight loss program. Most people think it to be imperative to go on a starving diet to go slim, but it's not so at all. The idea is to lose fat, and not the muscles, but if you don't give enough food to the body, or under feed yourself, you will lose the strength of your muscles, and could even lead to an enduring tired feeling. This will slow down all your activity, and your work as well as life style will start to suffer.

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10 Helpful Tips for Weight Loss

Overweight people often view weight loss as a dreaded but necessary process to undergo in their pursuit of improved health and body image. Lets re-frame weight loss and look at it as an opportunity to explore new foods and recipes, a fun way to get more movement in your life and a chance to stretch your vision of who you are and more importantly, who you are becoming. The following tips will hopefully tickle your fancy and help turn your weight loss journey into an overture to an ever-improving "you".

1) Transformation begins in the mind. Think "lifestyle" - not "diet", think "feel better in my body" - not "weight loss" and lastly think "I love myself enough to make whatever changes are necessary" - not "I hate my body so much I need to change".

2) Slow down to slim down. Practice mindful eating by engaging all your senses in the dining process. As you see, smell and anticipate your meal, pre-digestion begins. While chewing, focus on the texture, not just the taste and listen to the sound of your teeth shredding and grinding your food. Savor each bite and chew slowly and thoroughly (minimum 25-40 chews) before swallowing. Not only will this give your body time to realize it is getting full but it will also improve the absorption of nutrients.

3) Use the 80% Rule. The Japanese call it "Hara hachi bu" which means "Eat until 80% full". Not only will you lose weight but the caloric restriction will promote longevity.

4) Boost your metabolism with cold water and hot spices. Drinking ice cold water causes the body to warm the water which temporarily raises the metabolism. Taking a cold shower increases circulation and metabolism by bringing more blood to the capillaries. And while we're talking about "cold", shivering will raise your body temperature and hence, your metabolism. As for the "hot stuff", cayenne, ginger, cinnamon and turmeric have a thermogenic effect on the metabolism and help regulate blood sugar as well.

5) Turn your kitchen black and blue. Our earliest ancestors, while foraging for food, used black, blue and purple as warning signs of potentially lethal food. Because the color blue rarely appears in our food supply naturally, it has been shown to act as a drug-free appetite suppressant. Try changing the refrigerator bulb to blue or eating off blue plates. Perhaps you would prefer a black or blue tablecloth.

6) Eat more negative calorie food. Food that takes more energy to digest than the calories it provides includes: cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts), asparagus, leafy greens, celery, mushrooms, chili peppers, apples, berries, apricots, peaches, and pears.

7) Sleep your weight away. While you sleep your fat cells secrete a hormone called leptin, which suppresses the appetite and triggers the metabolism to burn more calories. For healthy weight and longevity women usually need at least 7 hours whereas men need about 8 hours of sleep.

8) Reduce stress. Our bodies respond to stress by producing a hormone called cortisol which encourages fat storage especially in the abdominal region. The following suggestions may help to reduce stress and enhance feelings of well-being:

• Laughter is truly the best medicine. It strengthens the immune system, relieves tension and releases dopamine, a pleasure-producing hormone.
• Spend time outdoors in harmony with nature.
• Exercise daily. Moving your body should not be a dreaded task so choose activities that you enjoy.
• Sing and dance to your favorite music.
• Express your feelings with respect for yourself and others.
• Practice mindfulness, living in the present moment.
• Try a Yoga, Tai Chi or Meditation class.
• Reduce caffeine and sugar consumption.
• Recite positive affirmations.
• Record your innermost thoughts in a journal.
• Treasure moments with loved ones.

9) Eat more fiber especially at breakfast. It will help you stay full longer. Try eating only whole grains, a few servings per day. Include legumes, nuts and seeds in your diet but keep the portions small. Don't limit vegetables to mealtimes. Raw veggies can make a delicious snack. And lastly, eat the whole fruit rather than the juice.

10) Be gentle with yourself. Berating yourself only brings negative emotions and outcomes. Embrace the joy that an occasional indulgence brings and celebrate your accomplishments.

My name is Marilyn Bellantoni. I am a Certified Health Coach and owner of Ruby Fruit Holistics. Whether you would like to lose weight or are just trying to incorporate healthy eating habits into a hectic lifestyle, success is just a click away. Visit me at http://www.rubyfruitholistics.com and request a free consultation today.

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Healthy Weight Loss

So many people nowadays are becoming desperate in order to lose weight. They are starting to go to unhealthy lengths in order to look skinny, because they think that it is attractive. However, losing weight in an unhealthy way could certainly be very damaging to your body, and you might not turn out so attractive if you are bony. You probably hear commercials and ads all over the place trying to sell you the newest diet or the newest weight loss operation, and you should ignore these red flags. Instead, you should take the healthy and natural path towards weight loss, one step at a time.

Things to Watch Out For

As mentioned above, new weight loss procedures are being thrown at the public very frequently. However, not a lot of people really know about the health risks of these procedures. Liposuction, a procedure where doctors literally use a vacuum-like contraption to suck the fat out of your body (usually from the stomach area), can be deadly. It also sounds very gruesome, and I assume after reading a more in-depth description of it, you will agree with me. Another weight loss procedure is the Lap-Band procedure. This is where doctors place a band around your stomach, so that you feel fuller sooner and eat less, which eventually leads to weight loss. This is practically like starving yourself, since you aren't actually full and you aren't actually getting all of the nutrients that your body requires to function. The band has also killed a few people, since it has been broken before. Imagine having an unnatural band wrap around your stomach! It makes me tighten up, and I don't know how other people can stand the thought of it, much less the actual procedure. Also, if you eat too much with the lap-band, you could end up throwing up, which is unhealthy as well.

Starving yourself on a diet is another weight loss strategy to watch out for. Starvation is a very serious health condition if you let it go too far. You're losing all of the nutrients that your body needs in order to function, and eventually your body will shut down due to lack of energy. Your body will not target your fat first, but instead will consume your muscles. You will lose all of your muscle mass before you lose any fat, and having nearly no muscle makes life very hard to manage. Starving yourself and denying your body the proper nutrients is never the way to go.

The Steps You Can Take

Healthy weight loss is accomplished through healthy eating and exercise. I know you have been told this time and time again, but it is the truth. This is the only way that you can lose weight in a healthy manner. Plus, if you exercise, your body will be in shape, and will look more attractive than the body of someone who is anorexic. Eating healthy and exercising will make your body feel better, and you will have more energy throughout the day.

Eating healthy will provide your body with the nutrients it needs, and you will feel the difference after about a week or so of changing your eating habits. It might be hard to switch at first, but eventually it will feel natural to eat carrots instead of burgers. Exercising also releases feel-good hormones to your body, so after you get the motivation to leave your couch, you will not regret it! Start making your way to a healthier and fitter you by watching your eating habits and hitting the gym more often.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Muhammad_Ali_Khalid

Tips on Writing Fitness Articles As a Marketing Strategy

Any business venture may fall flat if it is not marketed properly. No matter how much in demand, if you are in the fitness industry, you got to publicize your company as hard as possible. Running a health or a fitness club with expert trainers on board is a highly rewarding business. But people who train under you would want to know that you are the best in the business, since they are entrusting you with the responsibility of their body. In order to earn the trust of your customers you can resort to writing fitness articles. This will increase the credibility of the services you provide and at the same time help your clients know more about fitness training. 

If you are wondering what it is that you should write about in the articles, following are a few tips that are sure to help you through the process:

The subjects you deal with in your articles are very important. This is because the topic determines whether people will be interested in reading your article or not. One good idea is to ask your trainers to discuss it with your clients. This will not only help you in getting hold of the 'hot' topics, but at the same time give you and your trainers the opportunity to mingle with the trainees in a different way.

When people go for fitness training they are looking for ways to lose weight. Let's face it, if you are writing fitness articles on how to reduce blood pressure levels, you wont get many takers.

Write lucid articles. If you use pompous words or too much of jargon, your article becomes too complicated to be followed easily. Instead go for a more informal tone, as if you are talking to the reader. This will earn you more readership and hence boost your business too!

Titles are very important when it comes to writing fitness articles. This creates the first impression on the reader. Make it as catchy and attractive as possible. But at the same time see to it that it goes with the essence of the article. Something drastically different can mislead your clients. If you are not sure about what title you should use, you can discuss the same with your clients. A good idea is to float a number of titles and see their reaction. Get them talking about what you have thought and you will amazed at how many titles can be generated from a single idea!

While writing fitness articles, follow a structure. Introduce the topic in the first paragraph. Then write in the form of tips. These are easy to understand and fitness enthusiasts always prefer this pattern.

An efficient distribution of your articles is a must if you want to use them as a marketing tool. You can either do it manually, i.e. distribute them among your clients, or do it on the Web or both. The more exposure your articles get, the more flourishing your business becomes.

Writing fitness articles can be a potent marketing tool if you can use it efficiently. Keep these in mind and very soon you will see your client count rising exponentially!

Chris McCombs has spent time writing fitness articles to help other trainers learn marketing. Chris started his own fitness business teaching others how to create a personal trainer business startup.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_McCombs

Can Fitness Clothing Affect Your Workout?

Fitness takes a lot of dedication and motivation to continue towards a healthy lifestyle. Many women have specific things that keep them motivated and make them want to work out more to benefit their health and keep them fit.

Fitness clothing is meticulously designed to tailor your workout and activity, but is there real benefits? Aside from the obvious comparisons between wearing a pantsuit in comparison to running pants there are other benefits.

As we all know a lot of our attitude towards exercise is based on our own body image and confidence, especially when working out in public. Many women swear that when they put on a workout outfit that they believe to be flattering, appropriate and fashionable, they feel much more motivated to exercise. Especially for women taking an exercise class. Standing in from of a room of mirrors with nothing to look at but yourself and others around you can play havoc with your confidence and looking good can be the difference between getting fit and staying in bed with some pizza!

Other benefits of workout clothes are less psychological and more scientific. As mentioned before, you wouldn't work out in a pantsuit and blazer. Sportswear is designed to fit the contours of the body in a way that minimizes bulk and allows flexibility. Take an exercise like yoga. This is an activity that requires a lot of flexible movement from the body and therefore a form-fitting stretchy fabric is essential not only to allow the body to move without restriction but to make sure the pose or movement is performed correctly.

Another instance where workout clothing can really affect your workout is within the realm of sports bras. Women can experience pain and discomfort when vigorously exercising without any support for their chest and a sports bra can be the answer to this. Women with larger chests have often complained that they cannot exercise like a man for example but once they have found the appropriate sports bra they feel much more supported and able to move freely. Sports bras are made in a variety of intensities also making each one appropriate for different exercise and sports.

Arguably most important is footwear in exercise. The body takes on a lot of strain when exercising especially when running or playing sports. The knees and joints are very important to keep healthy and therefore the right shoe is essential. Sports shoes are also tailor made to enhance specific activities. Running shoes are very supportive and can come with a lot of cushioning whereas hiking shoes will have a lot more grip and ankle support.

Different fabrics also enhance our workout to help reduce and disperse sweat. This keeps the body more free of toxins and keeps us cool as we exercise.

Workout clothing can really make a difference to a workout both mentally and physically, when we look good we feel good and when we feel good we look good. With a little help from our sportswear, we can achieve both.

Workout Apparel

Fitness Clothing

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_A_Buchanan

Health and Fitness Training: The Ultimate Beauty Secret

In today's modern world, beauty does mean a lot. With the prettiest faces to captivate the general public, from magazines to televisions to websites, every girl wants to know one thing. What does it take to become the next "IT" girl? What's the ultimate beauty secret?

Living the life of the rich and famous is quite easy if you grace the covers of the beauty magazines. All it takes for a girl to live in the fab lane is to simply be beautiful. The ultimate secret to achieving beauty is health and fitness training.

Being healthy and fit is your ticket to success. But, it does come with a price! It takes hard work and patience to achieve it. It doesn't happen overnight, thus, you have to brace yourself. Let's get started!

Tip # 1 Pump your Heart
The heart plays a vital role in your body. It pumps the blood which delivers oxygen and nutrients needed by your body. Thus, your heart always needs to be in great shape. To achieve that, make sure you pump your heart. There are many exercises which facilitate cardiovascular conditioning. The most basic of all exercises is walking or running. If you're just getting started, it's best to start your exercise by walking at least 30 minutes per day. You can schedule your walks at the time of your convenience. You can do it at your subdivision, at the park, or anywhere else you want to. Do the walking regime for about 4 weeks and after that transition to running. You can start running small distances then run longer ones as you go along. Once you've made this a routine, you'll definitely run your way to a better heart!

Tip # 2 Strength is Beauty
Strength or resistance conditioning is always an important part of training. You have to exercise your muscles in order to keep your body toned. Also, it energizes you. Most women may fear bulking up but, you'll only bulk up if you allow yourself to be! The training is designed to tighten up loose muscles. It also decreases risk for injury and by being physically toned, you'll be more confident!

Tip # 3 Food to Feed your Soul
Diet is very important in Health and Fitness Training. It's no good to exercise when you're not eating right. You may lose certain calories by burning them out, but, what's the use if you find yourself eating too much fat the next minute?! Thus, watch out after your food intake and make sure you eat healthy. Choose fruits over sweets. Also, replace carbs with high fiber-high calorie diet. Instead of eating a slick of cake, why not eat a whole wheat bread instead?! It would still be a delicious goodness yet a healthier one!

Health and Fitness Training will help you achieve beauty if you embrace it wholeheartedly. Undertake the necessary steps and do everything it takes. Before you know it, you might be the next girl the paparazzo's are stalking after! Start your beauty secret experience today by checking out http://www.trainingfitness.info. We have a free 7-day ecourse designed for you!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_C_Madison

Why Is Physical Fitness Important

Physical fitness means different things to different people. For some, it is the ability to engage in sports activities; for others, it is more about feeling and looking good. With obesity now considered to be a pandemic in our society, more and more people are seeking out diet plans, exercise programs, and holistic approaches to improve their lifestyle. Health is on everyone's mind today; perhaps it is time. Why is physical fitness important?

Anyone who has been sedentary for a period of time knows how difficult it is to complete even the simplest of tasks. Your doctor probably tells you to lose weight; your nutritionist mandates you maintain a proper diet regimen; your gym instructor guides you in repetitive exercise programs to achieve a pre-planned fitness level. While everyone involved is focused on you becoming more fit and healthy; what are you contributing to the equation?

Let's face it; dieting is hard and exercise is even harder. However, in order to become physically fit, there has to be a balance of proper nutrition, dental and health care, rest, and relaxation. It all begins within you. You must have the willingness, determination and drive to endure all of the hardships necessary to enhance your overall health. Physical fitness will give you more energy than you've ever had before, and allow you to enjoy life to its fullest. This requires goal-setting. No one is asking you to compete for gold medals; all that is required is a safe and effective method of physical exercise to improve your heart, lungs, and muscle development. Unused muscles lead to atrophy; which is why simple aerobic exercises are a great place to begin.

When you start an aerobic exercise, you're heart, lungs and muscles work together to improve cardiovascular function. Whether you jog in place, walk for twenty minutes a day, or run; these exercises are an important part in physical fitness training. However, you must start slowly. If you have never exercised before, it will take time for your body to acclimate. It isn't important what you do, but how you do it. Proper physical fitness training can mean the difference between a good exercise workout, and one which may lead to injury.

Joining a gym is an appropriate place to begin. There, professionals will walk you through each piece of equipment; explain its function; and demonstrate how to use the equipment properly. Perhaps the exercise bike may be a suitable place to begin. Twenty minutes, three times a week is a good exercise workout. Eventually, you will gain the confidence you need to pursue other more strenuous exercises. Ask a friend to join the gym with you. Having someone there to partner with allows each of you to enjoy the experience of exercising while, at the same time, encouraging each other to continue particularly when it becomes hard and frustrating.

Take out the five pound weights gathering dust in your closet, and begin using them at home. It's time to stop others from telling you what you need to do; it's time to look in the mirror and ask yourself, "Why is physical fitness important to me?" Once you answer that question, you are ready to begin a program designed especially for you. It's a matter of health. Don't wait! Just look in the mirror.

Trying to stay fit? Ethan suggests reading more physical fitness articles [http://www.freearticles.com/Category/Fitness-Articles/12] today at: http://www.FreeArticles.com [http://www.freearticles.com/Category/Fitness-Articles/12].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ethan_Allen

Weight Loss Diets for Women - Basic Principles

There are numerous weight loss diets for women available, because everybody has food related preferences. Therefore, women prefer to keep only certain diets that fit their lifestyle better. Here are some principles underlying the most famous diets.

One way that can help you reach the weight you desire is changing the metabolism by reducing the intake of carbohydrates, thereby dissolving the body fat. This diet is best suited for women who want to see immediate results.

Another famous principle that helps in losing weight is alternating a day in which you can eat whatever you desire and crave for, with a day in which you do not eat more than 500 calories. This method can block the process that stores fat, and it is also stated that it enhances the immune system.

Other weight loss diets for women state that a diet plan based on low-calorie foods, high protein, and non-fat, that has the purpose to significantly diminish your appetite is another way of reaching the weight you desire.

A good principle is also the division of carbohydrates depending on how fast your body processes and changes them into energy. Foods that release energy gradually are preferred, because they delay hunger and provide enough energy throughout a day.

Other diets include a principle that promotes the adjustment of the insulin in the body within certain levels, by eating food at optimal time intervals and keeping the right balance. It is also important to keep an eye on the other hormones. This way the body works within an ideal zone, ensuring weight loss and a high level of energy.

Other weight loss diets for women suggest low-fat and low-calorie food, or calorie counting. For the last one, you have to determine how many calories everything you eat or drink has. For losing weight, you should keep the day-by-day calories intake lower than your body and daily activities require.

Another way of losing weight is breaking the cycle that causes the insulin levels to rise or fall, a process that occurs as a result of eating quickly absorbed carbohydrates, thus encouraging you to snack. This is another diet that helps losing weight fast and it also helps eliminate the extra pounds around the abdomen.

All you have to do is to choose the diet that fits your taste and needs the best, because there are many weight loss diets for women available on the market, online, or in magazines.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_A._Smith

Extreme Weight Loss Methods For Events

You can use extreme weight loss methods to shed the bulk hanging from your waist, hips and chin to look smarter and prettier. The loss of weight is a gradual process which requires consistency. Some people are too desperate and impatient to lose weight, hence they seek short cuts. Extreme weight loss methods are meant for such people. These people are usually keener to lose weight for special occasions such as weddings, parties, prom nights and dates.

The most popular form of losing weight on a short notice is starvation, which is employed by some of the most famous fashion models and celebrities. Dieters can be more interested in finding the easier way of shedding their calories rather progressing slowly with the traditional method of eating healthily and exercising regularly.

There are some people who wish to reduce weight but they cannot seem to do so despite the extreme weight loss methods that they have applied on themselves. One of these methods, however, works well for them and that method is liposuction. The fatty tissue under skin is removed using a tube. This is more like surgery that a diet which is done under local or general anesthesia. For the general public, action such as this does not guarantee a definitive weight loss. Chances are that those who undergo this process need to go through several surgeries before their skin evens out and looks smooth. This may cost a lot to the person and also may leave him unsatisfied.

Some people also take excessive drugs for losing weight. This is a very unnatural way to reduce body mass since it may also have side effects which can lead to severe internal problems and diseases. Many vital organs of your body cease to work and you may also have mental and physical disability if you do not understand the gravity of taking too many drugs. Extreme weight loss methods which cause such severe problems and damage your own body are not advised on the whole to put into practice. You may never realize the damage these drugs are having on your body because the symptoms will start to appear gradually. There could be times when you would lose so much weight that you will start feeling weak and nauseated. This is not at all normal in any circumstance.

There is another method often introduced to people who have digestive issues. This method is known as the detox diet. The dieter is given a liquid or juice in the form of syrup which he takes for a limited time period in order to clear the digestive system. You will stop feeling hungry because of the nutrients present in the liquid which replace the hunger of the dieter. However, once the problem is solved and you resume back to eating a solid diet, the weight is likely to start to be regained. This should therefore be used as a very temporary method.

Some people also take injections as one of the extreme diet methods. This might seem to be a very tempting method but it is not approved by the FDA. Hence it is better to opt for a traditional way of losing weight than these short cuts.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzie_Ling

Weight Loss - Success Is Inevitable When You Change Your Dietary Plan

No serious and authentic weight loss program can run successfully without basic change in your style of living. In other words, attitude is a prime mover in weight loss and you cannot achieve your weight loss goals without replacing your erstwhile negative habits with fresh positive ones. Remember however, that all these revised good actions must have consistency if you aspire for success. Please read on to know some of the good factors that can have a positive effect on your weight loss aspirations:

1. Check whether obesity is a hereditary factor
2. Check whether you have earlier suffered mental trauma
3. Confirm to yourself the desire to lose weight

Obesity and excess weight are the source of several problems of the health including self-confidence and stature. When you lose weight and get into shape, not only do you regain your health, but you find also that your self-confidence and self-esteem have noticeably returned. This is why most people are looking out for those miraculous weight loss methods that will burn the fat and re-invent you in a body that you can flaunt bravely on the beaches. However, can you achieve this without a regular workout regime and a balanced diet of small portions taken at 5 to 6 regular intervals a day? Starting with Cardiovascular exercises like swimming, running and walking just for 15 minutes a day, is a good start to your exercise regime.

God made every human being different and so a good Weight loss diet plan, which is good for one, may not work for the other. Moreover, the body system of each individual requires a special diet plan if you want to see success in your weight loss diet aspirations. When you perceive that your exercise regime and diet are not responding with adequate weight loss, see the expert forthwith and get your regimen revised for better results. Since each individual has a distinctive metabolism, success is inevitable when you change your dietary plan.

People are laden with so many diverse problems, which restrict their capacity to undergo a comprehensive exercise regime. Some sugar patients suffer from diabetic neuropathy, which precludes them from walking long distances, and short distances are only what they can cover. In this, any increase in walking speed will go a long way in their favor. Most good and balanced diets and exercises will see your fat burning fast and converting to lean muscle. In any weight loss program, ensure that you drink at least eight glasses of water to keep from dehydrating. Water is also a good medium to flush out the poisonous toxins from the body. Some of the strictly prohibited food items include fried foods, fast foods, pastries and sweetened carbonated drinks.

The preferred food for weight loss includes fresh vegetables and fruits, small fish, whole-grain food, and the like. Preferably, do not consume roots growing underground like Potatoes, Beetroot etc. As a thumb rule, they say that you can lose a pound a day if your calorie intake per day is within 1000 to 1500 calories.

Click here to know more about Chapel Hill NC Health Club.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sooraj_Surendran

Loose Skin and Weight Loss

Loose Skin

How many of you have wondered about loose skin? How many have wondered how to get rid of it? Well, I'm here today to help you out a bit. I work for a medical reconstructive and cosmetic surgery practice in New Jersey and I get this question in emails all the time. People want to lose weight but are concerned about having loose skin. First, let me tell you that I am in no position to give anyone advice, I neither a dietician, nor am I a plastic surgeon but I do work for many surgeons and all my information comes directly from them. The number one thing that they will tell you is to not worry about your loose skin. Being healthy and wanting to be healthy is your number one job. Being healthy leads to a happier you, a happier you leads to a healthy happy life. I will explain further why this is so.

What Happens to our Skin?

Loose skin occurs when you lose a certain amount of weight faster than your skin has time to recoil, so pregnant women after giving birth will have some loose skin, people going through a mild to severe weight loss will also have loose skin. Loose skin occurs because once your body stretches through weight gain or pregnancy; your skin loses its elasticity. To better understand what happens to our skin when we lose weight we should first take a quick look at how we burn fat. When we lose mass by burning fat, the fat doesn't just disappear as we would like it to, instead our fat changes form. When we eat, glucose and sugar are harnessed from the carbohydrates we consume; this becomes our bodies' first fuel source and is stored away in the form of glycogen to be released into the bloodstream as necessary. Once our bodies run out of this energy then fat takes over during a process called ketosis. During ketosis our hormones then activate an enzyme in fat tissue which ignites to release triglycerides that then break into three components of glycerol and three fatty acid chains in a process called lipolysis. The liver then absorbs the glycerol for energy and the fatty acids move to the muscles for energy. Because the fat tissue is removed of some of its components, it shrinks and so does the skin but as stated before only to an extent. Skin stretches because rapid weight gain or growth (ex. pregnancy) outpaces collagen production in your skin which causes areas to overstretch. Just as plastic will tear when stretched too far, so will skin in terms of stretch marks. In cases of massive weight loss, where individuals lose 100 lbs. and over, folds of extra skin remains because the skin had become so outstretched that it hangs from the thinner body like a rubber band that has lost its elasticity. In cases of moderate weight loss, skin can certainly shrink back to fit the body's new size because of its elasticity. However, collagen fibers weaken with age and a few other factors thus resulting in wrinkles. The factors that determine your skins elasticity is dependent upon the individual and include whether the individual smokes, their race, sun damage, genetics, and even how often their weight has fluctuated greatly.

So in a sense, the actual amount of loose skin you might have is unknown as it is dependent on many other factors and also why the concern of loose skin shouldn't be a factor in your hopes of losing weight. The want and effort to be healthy will do your body and life a million more favors than worrying about loose skin will. Being healthy and doing the necessary actions to be so will add to your motivation in life, your self-confidence, your work ethic, you name it.

Mild to Moderate Weight Loss

In cases of mild to moderate weight loss, surgery is not required and loose skin can actually be prevented. As mentioned before, a protein in the skin called elastin allows the skin to shrink back to a regular size. However, when going through weight loss, losing 20-30 pounds is very different from losing 80 lbs. or more. In cases of moderate weight loss, there are ways to reduce the amount of resulting excess skin through exercise, muscle-building, eating properly, staying hydrated and by losing the weight slowly. Exercise that includes increasing muscle tone can tighten connective tissue and help stretch the skin as it essentially acts as a filler to your skin instead of fat tissue. By consuming the proper amount of food and water every day will ensure that your skin absorbs the necessary nutrients. Water is a crucial component of maintaining skin elasticity and you should be taking in at least 2 liters each day. The two ingredients that keep skin plump and elastic are elastin and collagen, the protein-rich foods to help form these is found in cottage cheese, legumes, tofu, milk, beans, seeds, nuts, and fish. For optimal absorption, try to consume these calories of protein immediately after your workout. Crash diets and excessive amounts of exercise can rapidly shed muscle and fat resulting in a huge loss of support for your skin as the underlying muscular structure that holds skin against your body is lost. It is important to aim for one to two pounds of fat loss per week and be sure to include weight lifting to keep your muscles strong and able. Loose skin may occur and that is okay, it is natural and will shrink to an extent over time. When this occurs it is important to nourish and take care of your skin by daily exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and increase circulation. Skin tightening creams with ingredients such as aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, yeast extract, vitamin E, C, A can help to hydrate and increase collagen and elastin formation. Make sure to stay away from harsh soaps and shampoos while limiting the amount of sun exposure. Tanning booths and chlorinated water will decrease skin elasticity.

Severe Weight Loss

As mentioned previously, in cases of a severe massive weight loss of 100 lbs. and over through traditional weight loss or weight loss surgery there are some serious health concerns. First, weight-loss surgery is not a quick fix, surgeons recommend having a regular diet and exercise plan even after the surgery to keep your weight stable to ensure the efforts of the surgery are maintained. Weight-loss surgery of over 100 lbs. will result in loose skin and while medical surgeons will remove the weight, the excess skin is not removed. This is something not all patients know before-hand resulting in patients having a poor body image as it was not what they were expecting sometimes causing emotional stress. The excess skin that results from weight-loss surgery and a severe drop in weight (100lbs.+) can cause health defects only because there is so much loose skin that the skin becomes a health problem itself. Folds of skin from a massive weight loss can result in psychological and physical problems. The physical problems that result from loose apron-like skin is intertrigo-a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection that occurs often due to the difficulty in keeping these folds of excess skin clean and dry. The skin can also cause back pains and ulcerations. Psychological problems occur when body image expectations are not met; an individual may lose 100+ pounds and not realize the effects of loose skin. So their incredible effort into losing weight results in having apron-like folds of skin. There are a few treatment options for these severe cases of massive weight loss and most are solved with plastic surgery. Post-bariatric surgery and body lifts involve many body areas as patients have loose skin not only on their abdomen but also through the face, neck, thighs, buttocks, arms and breast. Surgery will leave small and large noticeable scars though most patients find these acceptable and enjoy more self-confidence when wearing a bathing suit. Depending on the patient, procedures can be chosen selectively focusing on the most problematic areas. For example, a patient who has lost a moderate amount of weight but has a mild amount of loose skin can have just a tummy tuck to remove remaining fat and skin in the abdomen area. Men who have gone through a massive weight loss sometimes result in sagging or large breasts also known as gynecomastia. Here liposuction alone may be satisfactory, however, this is not typical and breast augmentation or reduction may be necessary. Each individual is different which is why it is crucial to first speak or have a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will be able to identify if you are a good candidate for surgery and will guide you through different procedures that will ultimately give you the satisfactory body you would like to achieve. There are insurance options for severe cases as those mentioned above; this is because excess skin can cause serious medical problems and is not just cosmetic. Again it is best to speak with a surgeon to create an entire plan that is best for you.

Our expert surgeons are recognized throughout New Jersey and the New York metropolitan area for their outstanding work in cosmetic, reconstructive, and hand procedures. Whatever your interests or needs, the plastic surgeons at Summit Medical Group offer a wide range of procedures designed to help rejuvenate, polish, and refine your look. Confidential consultations are available to discuss what would look best for you and how to achieve a natural, healthy-looking result. Specializing in not only post-bariatric surgery but they are also the leading surgeons in breast augmentations and liposuction in New Jersey and New York.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Bowden

6 Exercises You Can Master For Total Body Fitness

Many people online are Google searching for the terms "workout without weights", or "exercises without weights" in hopes to find a simple exercise routine to do at home. There are infomercials and a lot of hype around fitness programs and equipment that can make it pretty confusing when you are looking for an easy home exercise program that doesn't require a lot of time or a lot of equipment.

By learning and mastering a few basic movements most people can get into the shape of their lives. Performing these 6 movements you can work all the major muscle groups of your body. Because the majority of people are not competitive body builders, mastering these 6 movements will build and strengthen all the muscles that the majority of us need to look, feel and perform at our best. The best thing about these 6 movements is that they require no equipment, only you, your house, and a pair of athletic shoes.

When starting out, it's important to understand that your main priority is to learn how to do the exercises. Once you are familiar with what they are, then you can work on increasing the intensity. Let's look at these 6 exercises and see what they are and what they do:

Exercise Without Weights #1 The Pull Up 
Primarily thought as as a mid and upper back exercise, the pull up also targets the arms and low back. But, the most essential function of this exercise is to help build the scapular stabilizers. This is important in any lifting or carrying that you do. It's also important in throwing and reaching for objects in front or overhead.

To do a pull up you will need an overhead bar. The hands use an overhand grip and are slightly wider than shoulder width. To objective is to lift your bodyweight against gravity. This may not be possible for those just starting out and so to decrease the resistance, you just rest your feet or calves on a chair either in front, or behind you. When combined with #4, you get a complete back workout.

Exercise Without Weights #2 The Push Up 
The push up is the opposite compliment to the pull up. While the pull up works the back of the body, the push up works the front. Most people think that they have an idea of how to do a push up. But, similar to Exercise #1, the push up is also works to stabilize the shoulder blade. When doing a push up the correct way, emphasis should be placed on fully protracting the scapula when the arms are fully extending and then fully retracted when the chest is close to the floor. Working in this way, the push up becomes more than just a chest exercise.

Another area to be aware of when working on your push up variations is your abdomen. The core abdominal workout that the push up gives is frequently over looked. You can work more of your abdominals by experimenting on hand and foot placement. Remember: Learn to do the exercise. Get curious.

Exercise Without Weights #3 The Overhead Push Up 
This exercise will work primarily the back, shoulder, and arm muscles. It is essential for learning to stabilize and balance your body while your arms are overhead.

The overhead push up is what some in the gym would call the military press. However, if you don't want to go to the gym, you can do a simple hand stand with feet supported on the wall. However, some can't do this particular workout without weights because they would be supporting their total body weight on their arms.

A modification would be to do an isometric over head push up against the top of a door frame. Your height can be adjusted by a step stool or other support. Doing isometrics, you basically press into something that's immovable and hold the press for a specified period of time and do several reps of this.

Exercise Without Weights #4 The Squat
What can be said about this fundamental human movement? This exercise is important on so many different levels. Primarily we look at it as a leg and hip strengthening exercise. However, it also strengthens the low back.

But, in addition to strengthening the lower body, done correctly it stretches all aspects of the lower body and keeps us limber. Starting at the bottom, the muscles of the sole of the foot, the ankle, the back of the calf, the quads, the glutes, and hip rotators, are all stretched by doing the squat. Not only are the muscles stretched, but the joints are lubricated with the extreme movements of the squat when performed correctly.

To learn the correct form of the squat, all you need to do is watch a 2 year old. They use correct form and shame most adults with their ability to drop straight to the floor. Do it like this without weights and get used to it. Done correctly and consistently, you won't need to use a squat rack.

Exercise Without Weights #5 The Front/Side Plank
This is so superior to crunches when it comes to strengthening your ab muscles. The reason for this is that it strengthens the deeper obliques and transverse abdominus rather than the superficial rectus abdominus that crunches primarily target.

To do the plank, you simply suspend your body in the air as your hands/elbows, and feet/knees support your body. You can do it face down with both arms and feet suspending your body. Or, you can do it on either side with one arm/foot suspending the body. Again, hold for a specified length of time.

Another benefit of the plank is that it is "functional" holding the torso and abdomen stable in order for us to perform tasks such as reaching, carrying, lifting, and so forth. Crunches, on the other hand, teach the stomach muscles to contract in a totally non-functional pattern. Most people don't realize that we hardly ever do "a crunch" motion in real life except when we are working under a car or something similar.

However, we are constantly doing something that requires us to stabilize our torso and activate our abdominals that way. Don't believe me? What happens when...you open a door, push a shopping cart around the store, reach in the back seat of your car, reach up from bed turn off the light? You get the picture.

Exercise Without Weights #6 Running/Sprinting
I am not talking about "jogging" per se. I am talking about running fast. Yep, make sprinting a regular routine. Again, we're talking about function. How many times do we actually have to jog compared to actually having to sprint?

Do you jog to the elevator when the door is closing? Do you jog across the street when a fast moving car is coming? Do you jog toward your baby if they are in harms way? While jogging is an excellent exercise in an of itself, it's something that we rarely need to do. Sprinting on the other hand...

Sprinting is a good way to loosen up all your muscles after you have already done the above movements. It's also important because it will work on your aerobic capacity and give you more energy when done as interval training. This is where you sprint for 30 seconds and rest for 1 minute. Complete this cycle as many times as you can.

These are the 6 essential movements that make up your workout without weights. If done consistently not only will you build muscle without weights, they will give you Total Body Fitness

Bryan W. is a physical therapist and fitness professional. With over 16 years experience he teaches his clients how to maximize their fitness level using simple and effective training strategies. In addition he teaches his clients how to Workout Without Weights and maintains a blog at http://www.workoutswithoutweights.net

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