Showing posts with label Healthy diet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Healthy diet. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Food Choices Affect Your Heart

Food Choices Affect Your Heart

Heart disease is number one killer among both men and women in the United States. And though we all realize that consuming high nutrient healthy foods help avoid the risk, we may not know which foods are the best choices to battle this terrible disease head on.
The key is raising up fiber and choosing foods that have your heart in mind. Eating unsaturated fats, like omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil, can help to reduce triglycerides. And a menu high in soluble fiber, which is often found in legumes and some fruits and vegetables, helps to decrease LDL cholesterol levels.

Sardines can add an awesome source of omega-3 fatty acids, along with calcium and niacin. You can prepare just netted ones on the grill, preserved tinned sardines work great in salads or sandwiches. Mackerel is a very excellent source of omega-3s, and is full of selenium, which is an antioxidant mineral which may help protect the body from heart disease and cancer. A great way to get omega 3s on the go is by grabbing a handful of walnuts for an all star snack. Add some to healthy green salad, or give chicken salad a health boost by adding ground walnuts.



Kidney beans are an cheap source of high fiber, are low fat, and have little cholesterol. Add them to salads and chili, as they truly are almost a perfect health food. Since tinned varieties tend to be higher in sodium, try to use the dried varieties whenever possible.

Whole-grain barley is rich in soluble fiber and insoluble fiber, which is good for combating constipation. It’s also a abundant protein source and has a healthy supply of iron and minerals. Choose whole-grain barley cereals, or substitute whole-grain barley for rice and pasta side menus once a week.

Oatmeal is a great way to elevate your fiber content early in the morning, and it also has a lower glycemic level, which helps to provide hovering energy stave off hunger. try rolled oats, and add some raisins, apples, and honey for flavor. Instant oatmeal isn’t a healthy alternative as it’s always loaded with sugar.


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Monday, September 21, 2009

Foods That May Help Increase Your Lifespan




Research has shown that some chemicals in foods such as sulforaphane, a phytochemical in broccoli, works with your genetics to raise your natural defenses, knocking out toxins and free radicals before they can damage cells that leads to cancer, cardiovascular disease, and premature aging.
Hopefully in the future doctors will be able to tell someone what diseases they might be genetically predisposed to, so their diets can be adjusted accordingly. You'll know which foods to add, which foods to avoid, and be able to take a more active role in preventing or stopping a genetic disease.



Meanwhile, many foods have been determined to slow down the aging process.
Lycopene, found in tomatoes, is said to reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease, and some cancers as well as macular degeneration. It’s also been said that it increases self sufficiency in elderly adults. Fresh tomatoes have a good amount of lycopene. The most usable form is found in cooked tomato products, like spaghetti sauce, soup and fresh salsas. Other great sources of this phytochemical are pink grapefruit, guava, red bell peppers, and watermelon.
Beta carotene is another great phytonutrient. If you eat at least two cups of orange fruits like sweet potatoes, squash and carrots you will boost your intake of beta carotene. This converts to vitamin A, an essential component for healthy skin and eyes. This nutrient may also reduce the risk of some cancers, cardiovascular disease, as well as osteoporosis. Lutein and lycopene, found in orange produce as well, may also reduce the risk of macular degeneration and protect skin from sun damage and reduce wrinkling. Other beta carotene sources are mango's and cantaloupes.
The one essential thing you need to change in your diet is eat dark leafy greens. This type of greens have been shown to greatly reduce your risk for heart disease and could save your eyesight. The best dietary guidelines advise three cups of greens a week. Frozen and bagged are as good as fresh.
To help the mental aging process, heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to keep your brain sharp. Some studies found that a higher intake of fatty fish greatly slowed or reduced mental decline. When fresh fish isn't available, canned tuna, salmon, and sardines are just as effective.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Healthy Nutrition While On The Road





Sticking to a healthy diet while traveling can be the most difficult thing to do in your life. If you make smart choices, a healthy diet isn't that tough an accomplishment. Because of the mobility of the trucking industry this is probably the best time in which to start a healthy diet, and if you are currently making healthy choices in your foods , modifying your diet slightly to accommodate travel is not as difficult as it may seem.
As a trucker, a healthy diet may have to include fast food and truck stop food, which can often be poor for your health, depending on whats available. When you plan your trip, find your food options online if the information is available, check if a vegetarian dish is available. Vegetarian dishes are sometimes more nutritional, but it really depends on what they will be serving. Eat oatmeal meal and toast every morning except one. I use a reward system I call the fat Friday system. I eat oatmeal and healthy protein as much as possible and if I do a good job I reward myself with a big fattening breakfast every Friday and dessert in my evening meal. This works for me in maintaining my weight and energy levels. I haven't gained any weight while eating this way and if you add some body weight exercise you can gain some muscle tone and that helps the way you look and feel. You may be tempted to stop at fast food restaurants and eat the foods found there. Avoid this whenever possible but if you don't have a choice don't buy the super size and make the healthiest choice possible.

Remember that you can take your own food when trucking. Carrying a loaf of whole grain bread, some lean lunch meat, and low fat cheese in your cooler is the best way to avoid fatty, high cholesterol meals. These are better choices and you’ll save money.

Make smart choices when you eat out. Choose salads or pasta, get the dressing on the side and ask for low carb. Many places print these diet options in the menu for the healthy eater. Control your portions. Order smaller sizes or split the meal in half. Put the other half in a doggy bag, and you’ll be on your way to healthy eating, even on the road.
Eating healthy foods when you travel is a challenge. Your health is worth it. When you eat healthier foods, you will boost your immune systems ability to fight illnesses that you are likely to encounter when traveling and boost your alertness so that you can have a safer more enjoyable trip.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Dietary Fiber Is Natures Miracle


Dietary fiber is a natural substance obtained from fruits, vegetables and cereals. Dietary fiber is the term used to describe the total fiber content of food. Dietary fiber is made up of two main types, insoluble and soluble. Dietary fiber is known to enhance intestine movement to help people keep in shape and prevent the hardening of arteries by lowering cholesterol in the blood. Dietary fiber is the part of plant materials that our body cannot digest. Dietary fiber is probably best known for its ability to prevent or relieve constipation. Dietary fiber is widely recognized as an important part of the treatment and prevention of diabetes, colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal disorders, high cholesterol, heart disease and obesity.

Fiber itself has no calories, yet provides a full feeling because of its water absorbing ability. Fiber is essential to human health in a number of ways. Fiber, particularly soluble fiber, can slow the absorption of sugar, which for people with diabetes, can help improve blood sugar levels. Fiber supplements are sold in a variety of forms from bran tablets to purified cellulose. Fiber ensures that the waste products move rapidly through the colon and in one way, they also help to prevent your risk of developing colon cancer. Fiber, especially in the absence of adequate water intake, can be so binding, as to cause severe constipation. Fibers that lower blood cholesterol levels include foods such as apples, barley, beans and other legumes, fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, oat bran and rice hulls. Fiber also appears to interact with intestinal bacteria and bile acids to process certain food substances. Fiber helps with lowering the risk of diabetes and heart problems. Fiber should come from a wide variety of natural foods. Fiber absorbs or binds with harmful fats, cholesterol, and toxins in the digestive tract, helping to carry them out of the body. Fiber has also demonstrated the ability to lower the risk of prostate cancer progression. Fiber supplements work by increasing the body's fiber intake.


Dietary fiber comes from the portion of plants that is not digested by enzymes in the intestinal tract. Dietary fiber provides a feeling of fullness and adds bulk in the diet. Dietary fiber is a complex mixture of plant materials that are resistant to digestion by humans. Dietary fibers promote beneficial physiological effects including laxation, blood cholesterol attenuation, and blood glucose attenuation. Caution, dietary fiber also slows stomach emptying, which may worsen delayed gastric emptying.

Foods high in Dietary Fiber, especially fresh fruits and veggies, are low in calories. Foods high in fiber often require more chewing, so a person is unable to eat a large number of calories in a short amount of time. Foods that provide dietary fiber can be found in three of the four food groups such as whole grain breakfast cereals, whole grain bread, fruit, vegetables, cooked beans, peas and lentils. Research proves that the higher the viscosity of soluble fiber, the better the control of blood sugar level in patients with type 2 diabetes.


Health benefits of a high fiber diet is widely recognized as an important part of the treatment and prevention of diabetes, colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal disorders, high cholesterol, heart disease and obesity. Healthy eating is especially important in mid life and later. Healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet rarely need supplements. Healthy men and women who were overweight or obese but susceptible to diabetes were tested in a recent study. They were all given a dietary supplement that was high in soluble fibers. All the tested individuals showed reductions in the levels of blood sugar and insulin production as a result of the supplement use. Fibers are an essential nutrient for good health and are helpful in practicing preventive health care.

Soluble fiber found in beans, oats, flax seed and oat bran may help lower total blood cholesterol levels by lowering low density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber has some additional benefits to heart health. Soluble fiber has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes by reducing total blood cholesterol and regulating blood sugar levels. Soluble fibers also may help control the rise in blood sugar following a meal and reduce insulin requirements in some patients with diabetes mellitus.


Fruits and vegetables are overflowing with high fiber. Fruits are generally high in pectin while vegetables contain a high percentage of cellulose. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grain products and nuts provide fiber.


Insoluble fiber helps bind water in the intestine and expands the volume of the intestinal contents, resulting in more frequent and softer stools. Insoluble fiber is most frequently found in whole grain products like whole wheat bread. Insoluble fiber passes through your digestive tract mostly intact. Insoluble fiber acts as a natural laxative that speeds the passage of foods through the stomach. Insoluble fibers do not dissolve in water and consist of cellulose, lignin and some hemicelluloses. Insoluble fiber such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin aid digestion, aid elimination, promote regularity, and contribute to bowel cleansing. Insoluble fiber is primarily found in chewy foods like whole wheat products, wheat and corn bran, the skin of fruits, and certain vegetables.

Eating too much fat or cholesterol, has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Eating 3 grams a day of soluble fiber from oats or 7 grams a day of soluble fiber from psyllium has been shown to lower blood cholesterol levels. Eating a high fiber diet can also help improve your cholesterol levels, lower your risk of coronary heart disease, reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, and assist with weight loss.


Research proves that the higher the viscosity of soluble fiber, the better the control of blood sugar level in patients with type 2 diabetes.


Increase your consumption of dietary fiber very gradually to avoid digestive discomfort. The suggested goal for fiber intake is about 40grams a day, from various sources. Increase dietary fiber in your diet gradually over a period of a few weeks.
Coconut
Coconut dietary fiber has a higher fiber content than many other fiber supplements. Coconut dietary fiber especially, is highly effective in controlling blood sugar. Coconut has one of the highest percentages of fiber among all plant foods. Coconut does not contain phytic acid and does not remove minerals from the body.


Dietary fiber is not found in animal products, such as milk and meats. Dietary fiber is known to slow down the absorption of sugars thus helping to keep blood sugar under control. Dietary fiber is generally obtained from plant foods, and consists of that portion of the plant which is not digested by man. Dietary fiber is not digested by the small intestine; instead, it passes to the colon unchanged. Dietary fiber is a very important link in the weight loss puzzle. Dietary fiber is also lacking in the majority of junk foods sold at so many fast food places. Dietary fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet. Dietary fiber is undoubtedly one of the most talked about nutrients for health promotion and disease prevention. Nutritionists recommend that we get 20-35 grams of dietary fiber a day. Bran cereal, wheat bread, oats, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and walnuts are fiber rich.



Sunday, August 2, 2009

Omega 3 Fatty Acid Is Essential For Physical and Mental Health


Omega threes are called essential fatty acids because they are essential to life and they can't be reproduced in the body. Omega threes are evidenced to reduce the risk of heart disease and are an essential nutrient in the formation of tissue. Omega threes are an anticoagulant and increase HDL cholesterol. Omega threes are an incredible anti aging, anti-oxidant compound that healthy bodies thrive on.

Omega Three and Omega Six act out a push-me pull-you hormone dance. Omega Three or Six chemical production is in a sense self-fuelling. Omega Six was always a scarce, seasonal, and precious resource. Omega Six instructs the body to store fat. Omega Six and Omega Three are truly external agents, only available through diet. Omega 3 and 6 are building blocks, fuel, chemicals raw materials, and hormone controllers. Omega Six is a key raw material, and an important controller of hormones and steroids. Flax seed oil and many other vegetable oils can also be a source of omega three fatty acids, but for a variety of reasons, fish oils are far superior in delivering long chain omega 3 fatty acids. Flax seed oil, though not as good as fish oil, is the best vegetarian source of omega threes. Increased hormones levels, due to increased Omega Six in the fat reserves, higher Omega Six chemicals, and lack of DHA give rise to hormonal disturbance and changes, which are leading to a rise in fertility related conditions. Increased levels of DHA reduce the long chain Omega 6 hormone and steroid production.

Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids. Mackerel, salmon, lake trout, herring, sardines and albacore are cold water fish which are awesome for their omega threes. Fish oil reduces the production of Omega Six inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane A2. Fish is important as a moderator of mental function, and well being. Fish is sacred in Christianity, forms part of the christian symbolism, was talked about in parables, and traditionally was part of the Christian diet. Eating two oily fish meals a week or taking a daily fish oil supplement supplying 1g omega 3 has been proven to reduce the chance of premature death from a heart attack. Eating fish more than once a week halved the risk compared with those who ate fish less than once per month.

Fats are the raw materials for massive families of very influential chemicals. Fat is used for energy, and so omega sixes and omega threes are all destined to be broke down and burnt. Fat also carries a number of nutrients into the blood stream from the intestinal tract. Fats are the source of hormones and steroids. Fats, protein and carbs are all good for us when eaten in balance and not excess.


Studies have found that omega threes are particularly implicated in depression, anxiety, and age related mental decline. Studies with depressed patients have shown lower than average blood levels of the omega 3s and a study with severely depressed patients showed dramatic improvements when they were treated with fish oil. Studies show that the best way to increase omega three in our bodies is to eat more fish, seafood and fish oil.

Researchers have discovered that supplementation with omega three fatty acids can actually build up their concentration within the membranes of the white blood cells. Researchers found that they continued to show greater problem solving ability and better decision making skills. Researchers have investigated different therapeutic doses of fish oil, but the most effective dose is yet to be conclusively determined.

Omega Threes are essentially anti inflammatory by a number of mechanisms. Omega threes are a special kind of fatty acid, vital to human growth and health, that are found in many foods, but especially in fish oil. Omega Six is essential to manufacture of hormones at all locations. Omega Three will improve your hair, eyes, skin, nails, and possibly fertility and sex life. Omega threes encourage the body to burn fat and make small fat cells. Omega three produces protective products called protectins and resolvins. Oil rich fish and supplements such as fish oil and cod liver oil, are the richest and most readily available sources of these omega 3s. Daily omega three supplements are also perfect for people who seek better mental health or natural arthritis cures but do not like to eat fish or seafood. There is overwhelming evidence to support the role of the omega-3 long chain fatty acids in protection against heart attack and sudden death. Taking fish oil regularly is the best way to supplement your omega threes in your daily diet. Seafood and flax are excellent additions to almost any diet, but even if you eat these foods regularly, it can still be difficult to take in the correct ratio of omega three. Adding a fish oil supplement to your daily routine will benefit your ration.
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Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Are Vegetarian Diets Healthy


Vegetarian diets are basically healthy and far superior to the low carb revolution, but many would argue that a more balanced diet would be better. Vegetarian diets are healthy and nutritionally adequate when well planned. Vegetarian diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle. Vegetarian diets are lower in saturated fats, cholesterol,and animal protein. Vegetarian diets are associated with a reduced risk in heart disease and other diseases, and are generally very high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and anti-oxidants. Vegetarians are people who don’t eat meat.

Vegetarians who eat milk or eggs are called lacto ovo vegetarians". Vegetarian diets typically consist of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Vegetarian diets are high in: vitamin C, fiber and folate. Vegetarianism is not recommended for young children because it is extremely difficult for them to consume the nutrients they need in adequate amounts for optimal growth without consuming any animal products. Vegetarians typically have less risk of CHD, cancer, obesity, high cholesterol and hypertension. Vegetarians have reduced rates of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and certain kinds of cancer. Vegetarian diets are often nutritionally inadequate. There is a possibility that some 'strict vegetarians' may be at risk of deficiencies.

Diet is important to maintain health for everyone. Diets that are high in fat and a lifestyle lacking in exercise, have lead to obesity spreading like wildfire across the Western world. Diets that do not include fish or eggs lack the long chain n 3 fatty acid docosahexanoic acid (DHA). Dietary supplements are advised for vegans only if they do not meet calcium requirements from food. Diets largely based on plant foods, such as well-balanced vegetarian diets, could best prevent nutrient deficiencies as well as diet-related chronic diseases.

Health implications of vegetarianism vegetarian diets low in fat or saturated fat have been used successfully as part of comprehensive health programs to reverse severe coronary artery disease . Healthy eating based on the food guide pyramid learn how easy it is have sound, nutritional eating habits. Healthier fat sources include soybean products, avocados, and nut butters. Foods rich in calcium, iron, and zinc should be emphasized.

Vegetarians tend to have a lower incidence of hypertension than non vegetarians. Vegetarians have been reported to have a lower body mass index than non vegetarians, as well as lower rates of death from ischemic heart disease. Vegetarians also show lower blood cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and lower rates of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and prostate and colon cancer. Vegetarians eat diets based on plants, and avoid one or more of the following: meat, poultry, fish, milk and eggs. Vegetarians are generally advised to seek out extra protein in foods such as beans and grains, and to make sure they get enough calcium, iron and B-complex vitamins. Vegetarians fall into groups defined by the types of animal derived foods they eat. Vegans eat only plant based foods. Vegetarians who eat no dairy products must get calcium from other foods. Vegetarians suffer markedly lower mortality from coronary heart disease compared to non-vegetarians.

Meat is not a dietary requirement for the human body. Meatless products, such as tofu dogs, soy burgers, nut loaves or texturized vegetable protein, add variety to your vegetarian diet.

Vegans or total vegetarians avoid all animal products and include only plant foods. Vegans eat nothing but vegetables, while lacto vegetarians include dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, butter and cream. Vegans are at the highest risk of nutrient deficiency because they tend to have lower dietary intakes of protein, vitamin D, calcium, iron, zinc and vitamin B12 which is only found in foods from animal sources. Vegans should include a regular source of vitamin B-12 in their diets along with a source of vitamin D if sun exposure is limited. Vegan choices are some of the most far-reaching personal, practical and ethical choices you can make.

Vitamin B12 is an important issue for vegans because it is found naturally in animal sources. Vitamin B12 and iodine are two nutrients of which vegan mothers should make sure they have a reliable supply. Vitamin B12 can be found in dairy products and eggs. Vitamin B-12 status of long term adherents of a strict uncooked vegan diet is compromised.

Protein is essential for many bodily processes, including tissue building and repair. Protein deficiency is extremely unlikely on a diet drawn from a variety of plant foods. Protein Rich and vegetarian almonds, black beans, brown rice, cashews, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), kidney beans, lentils, lima beans, peanut butter, pinto beans, quinoa, seitan (a wheat-based mock meat), soybeans, soy milk, sunflower seeds, textured vegetable protein, tofu, vegetarian hot dogs and burgers iron rich and vegetarian black beans, bran flakes, cashews, hot whole grain cereals, garbanzo beans , cold whole grain cereal, kidney beans, lentils, navy beans, oatmeal, pumpkin seeds, raisins, soybeans, soy milk, spinach, sunflower seeds, tofu, tomato juice, whole wheat bread calcium enriched and broccoli, calcium-fortified orange juice, collard greens, great northern beans, kale, kidney beans, mustard greens, navy beans, sesame seeds, soybeans,and tofu. A diet high in cholesterol and saturated fat can increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, and certain forms of cancer.

Eating an adequate number of calories derived from any normal variety of plant foods generally gives us all the protein our bodies need. Eating at restaurants can be difficult for vegetarians sometimes, but if you do eat fish, you can usually find something suitable on the menu. Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables is the simple 5 A Day message, and a smart strategy for better health. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise is the number one recommendation by physicians to maintain a healthy heart, but many people still do not know what an ideal diet consists of. Eating three small meals a day and a couple of healthy snacks such as a piece of fruit, a low-fat yogurt or a bowl of cereal in between, is a much better way to control your calories. Dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt are a really important part of a healthy balanced diet because they are great sources of protein and vitamins A, B12 and D. Include regular helpings of complex carbs, like whole wheat bread, wholegrain cereal, oats and rice in your weight loss plan. Include good sources of non-animal proteins such as dried beans, nuts, soy and whole grains.

Soy is the only complete vegetable protein. Soy milk sold in grocery stores for adults is not the same as soy baby formula, however, and is not adequate for infants. Soy products, legumes, tofu, dark green vegetables, collard greens, kale, broccoli, enriched cereal, beans, peas, lentils and whole-grain products can all help you get the nutrients that you normally get from meat. Milk and yogurt are tops if you're eating dairy products — although vegetarians will want to look for yogurt that does not contain the meat by-product gelatin. Soy protein is equal to animal protein.

Researchers have found that overweight people consume about the same number of calories as slim people—but they don’t consume the same kinds of food. Researchers report that the act of cooking helps to increase the availability of iron already contained in vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, and tomatoes, making it easier for your body to absorb. Research suggests that complementary proteins do not need to be consumed at the same time and that consumption of various sources of amino acids over the course of the day should ensure adequate nitrogen retention and use in healthy persons.

ADA releases updated position paper on vegetarian diets. ADA is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. ADA's position, published in the July issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, represents the Association's official stance on vegetarian diets:"It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. ADA's position and accompanying paper were written by Winston Craig, PhD, MPH, RD, professor and chair of the department of nutrition and wellness at Andrews University; and Reed Mangels, PhD, RD, nutrition advisor at the Vegetarian Resource Group, Baltimore, Md.

Vegetarianism excludes high-calorie foods and animal products laden with saturated fats. Vegetarianism Throughout the Life Cycle Well-planned vegan and lacto ovo-vegetarian diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle, including during pregnancy and lactation.

Raw foods diets are variously described as uncooked vegan diets, uncooked vegetable diets, and living foods diets. It is the position of the American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada that appropriately planned vegetarian diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Raw food eaters are convinced that raw food diets are absolutely necessary in order to maintain a healthy weight.

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Lacto ovo vegetarians eat eggs, milk and milk products, such as cheese and yogurt, in addition to plant-based foods. Lacto vegetarian includes all of the elements of a vegan diet, however, honey and dairy are allowed on the diet. Lacto ovo vegetarian and vegan diets can meet the nutrient and energy needs of pregnant women.

Vegetarian diets are often associated with health advantages including lower blood cholesterol levels, lower risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure levels and lower risk of hypertension and type 2 diabetes, according to ADA’s position. Vegetarian diets are low in: calcium, protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B-12. It is possible to obtain all essential nutrients by eating a completely plant based diet, however the planning is critical to the health. Vegetarian diets are typically high in fiber, antioxidants and phyto chemicals, and low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Vegetarian diets are classified as:Vegan: No meat, poultry, fish, eggs, or milk products. Lacto-vegetarian: No meat, poultry, fish, or eggs; includes milk products. Lacto ovo vegetarian: No meat, poultry, or fish; includes milk products and eggs. Semi-vegetarian: Some animal foods excluded, usually red meats; may include fish, poultry, eggs, or milk products. Vegetarian Diets are varied, from avoiding some meats to absolutely no animal products. Vegetarian diets are often lower in calories and fat than meat diets, and rates of overweight and obesity among vegetarians are lower than among meat eaters. Diets that are high in fiber tend to be more filling, and as a result strict vegetarians may feel full before they've eaten enough calories to keep their bodies healthy and strong. Nutrition Considerations for vegetarians plant sources of protein alone can provide adequate amounts of essential amino acids if a variety of plant foods are consumed and energy needs are met. The American Dietetic Association has released an updated position paper on vegetarian diets that concludes such diets, if well-planned, are healthful and nutritious for adults, infants, children and adolescents and can help prevent and treat chronic diseases including heart disease, cancer, obesity and diabetes.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

How Social Groups Can Help With Obesity


Obesity is a health problem that causes many severe diseases, besides hampering your normal personal and social activities. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Obesity is increasingly becoming a concern in many developed countries. Obesity is thought to have numerous causes with physical, emotional, environmental, endocrine and neurological problems. Obesity is not just a cosmetic problem, but a lot of health problems & complications are associated with it. Obesity is a function of social progress so there's no point in blaming unhealthy food. Obesity is a result of multiple factors like environmental (food access, sedentary lifestyle), behavioral, social, cultural and genetic factors.

Obesity has become one of the major health problems worldwide. Obesity in adults is on the rise and is a major problem causing a significant rise in disease and death worldwide. Obesity itself is not a major risk factor for premature death until your body mass index is 40 or higher. Obesity is considered to be today's principal neglected public health problem, and is causing great harm to our society.

Weight loss is becoming a social issue. Weight loss diets, drugs and surgery all have well-documented side-effects, most of which include weight regain and decreased health. Overweight and obesity are products of certain lifestyle factors and it's unclear whether the weight itself, the lifestyle or the combination of both is more important for disease risk.

Obese people are at greater risk of cancer. Obese children are very likely to become obese adults who will have a significantly higher risk of developing medical problems. Obese children are more prone to vitamin deficiencies, especially Vitamin B12, which helps the body maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells.

Abdominal adiposity is an important determinant of impaired pulmonary function, and it is of greater importance than overall adiposity markers such as weight and BMI. Abdominal fat is especially active hormonally, secreting a group of hormones called adipokines that may possibly impair glucose tolerance. Abdominal adiposity may restrict the descent of the diaphragm and limit lung expansion, compared to overall adiposity, which may compress the chest wall. Body fat index calculators are used to find out the percentage of fats in the body.

Friends influence each others diet and exercise patterns. Friends who will commit to losing weight together can encourage each other along in healthy habits. Friends, siblings and spouses who agree to convert to healthy lifestyle habits and weight loss diets increase the chance of weight loss success for all concerned.

Researchers found that when a friend loses weight that their social network may follow suit. Researchers studied many factors, including gender, natural weight gain, and the tendency of people to associate with similar people. Researchers think it's more than just people with similar eating and exercise habits hanging out together. Researchers found that a person had a increased chance of becoming obese if their social network was obese.

Obesity is one of the major health problems increasing at an alarming rate. Obesity is not just a cosmetic problem, but it can lead to a lot of health problems and complications. Obesity is a public health problem which can translate into a large economic burden as steadily rising obese population can succumb to the medical complications of obesity and can threaten to overwhelm health services. Obesity is a growing problem among adults worldwide and the way to combat it is simple; eat less and eat more healthy food. Health is a big asset which requires proper care and nurturing.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Now Is The Best Time To Start Healthy Eating Habits

Nutrition facts for the Mega KatImage by Brian Lane Winfield Moore via Flickr


If your current nutrition regimen is not healthy , it is usually fairly difficult to change to a healthy one. Healthy eating is crucial for maintaining good internal body function and living a healthy lifestyle. If you have a hard time with eating healthy foods, then you know that changing bad eating habits is by far the toughest part of this process. If you really want to live the healthiest lifestyle , it's important to follow these tips, so you can begin a healthier diet.
To start eating a more healthy diet, get rid of all food products that don't belong in healthy categories. Throw out or give away junk foods and unhealthy liquids so that you won't be tempted to eat those unhealthy snacks during the day. If you usually get hungry throughout the day, keep healthy snacks nearby for easy access. If you can't drum up the will power to stop eating sweets, keep something smaller, like chocolate chips. Eating a small amount wont ruin your diet but will stave off your craving for sweets.
The next step when your first starting your new diet, is to take some time to research what foods are the healthiest . Most people know that fruits, vegetables, low-fat meat, and non fat dairy products are best for you. Learning more about nutrients is imperative for a successful transformation. This new knowledge will empower you and enable you to more easily make the changes.

When beginning a new healthier diet, you should also consider sticking to a meal schedule. If you have the habit of eating in a rush at a different time each day, like most busy people you probably aren't getting the best nutrition. Plan your snacks and meals! Don't fall back in the habit of grabbing a fast food lunch, take a sack lunch. Take something healthy and fresh veggies for snacking. Plan your evening meal by cooking ahead, especially if you don't have time to cook every night. Move into your new routine slowly by replacing fast food half the time and it will be easier to stick to it for the long run.
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