PMS Weight Gain
By Elizabeth Morgan
Many women experience weight gain during the premenstrual phase or the two weeks immediately before their periods. Some of this weight gain is temporary and is caused by fluid retention in the body resulting from hormonal changes. Sometimes, certain food cravings during the premenstrual phase may result in binge-eating that eventually causes weight gain. If a woman has bad period pain, headaches, or mood changes, she may be less likely to adhere to her regular exercise routine. Limited exercise, combined with increased eating, work together to increase weight. Certain antidepressant medications may also cause weight gain as a side effect.
There are several ways to reduce weight gain during the premenstrual phase. A regular exercise routine and a balanced, nutritious diet are the most important lifestyle factors. Foods high in refined sugars should be replaced with those that are high in complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Food cravings can be managed by getting adequate sleep, eating smaller and more frequent meals, limiting caffeine intake, staying well hydrated, and doing at least some exercise. Reducing salt intake in the last few days before ones period can help minimize bloating and fluid retention. If fluid retention and bloating are pronounced, a diuretic such as spironolactone can be used to remove excess fluid from the body. Calcium supplements may also help reduce bloating and other PMS symptoms.
If a woman is on antidepressant medication, she can discuss with her physician the possibility of switching to a drug that does not cause weight gain. If this is not possible, weight loss strategies, such as increased exercise and a diet that restricts the total number of calories consumed, can help. Discontinuing antidepressant medication may result in worsening depression and should not be considered as a weight loss option.
PMS provides detailed information about PMS, PMS remedy, PMS symptoms, PMS treatment and more. PMS is the sister site of Ovulation And Conception.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Morgan
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Weight Loss Tips for Women: 5 Solutions to Staying Slim
Weight Loss Tips for Women: 5 Solutions to Staying Slim
by Katie Jay
So congratulations! Youve lost some weight! Now, how do you keep it off?
When youve spent weeks or even months striving and sacrificing, you dont want to have your spirits sink as you see the scale start to go up. For most of us, regardless of our weight loss method, weight regain is a real possibility. But is it inevitable?
Follow these five sure tricks, and your scale will stay put:
If you gain a pound, lose it! People who are successful at maintaining a weight loss weigh themselves at least twice a week. Pick regular times of day, and regular days of the week, to weigh and keep a chart. If you find youre up a pound or two, follow a healthy and structured food plan until the extra weight comes off again.
Have planned snacks instead of grazing. To combat rampant, spontaneous snacking, plan a couple of balanced snacks every day that you can measure out and enjoy. Be sure to include some protein and complex carbohydrates in your snack. If you feed yourself a bit more frequently, you will be less likely to graze mindlessly.
Balance your treats with healthy choices. You can have an occasional treat, but you can also have an occasional healthy choice. Keep the treat small so that you dont get a big sugar or unrefined carb rush. And if you must eat sugar or an unrefined carb, eat a little protein with it so that your blood sugar doesnt crash and cause cravings for more of the same.
Admit your trigger foods and avoid them. All you have to do is look at certain foods and you know youll eat them. Dont keep any snack foods in plain site around your house. Put them away. If you find yourself going to the cupboard or refrigerator to peruse the snack items, youll need to keep the trigger foods out of your house altogether.
Experiment and use the tools that work for you. Many dieters hate the act of writing down what they eat. Some dislike exercise. Others abhor weighing and measuring their food. Still others will not give up sugar and unrefined carbs. You need to be honest with yourself, though. These tools are proven to work. So, experiment with all the tools available to you and use the ones that work.
Weight regain is not inevitable, but you need to take action to avoid it. Apply these solutions to your life and you will find weight maintenance to be simple and satisfying.
Katie Jay is the director of the National Association for Weight Loss Surgery, a certified life coach and author of the courageous book, "Dying to Change: My Really Heavy Life Story, How Weight Loss Surgery Gave Me Hope For Living." For more info on the National Association for Weight Loss Surgery see http://www.nawls.com
Article Source: http://www.ladypens.com
by Katie Jay
So congratulations! Youve lost some weight! Now, how do you keep it off?
When youve spent weeks or even months striving and sacrificing, you dont want to have your spirits sink as you see the scale start to go up. For most of us, regardless of our weight loss method, weight regain is a real possibility. But is it inevitable?
Follow these five sure tricks, and your scale will stay put:
If you gain a pound, lose it! People who are successful at maintaining a weight loss weigh themselves at least twice a week. Pick regular times of day, and regular days of the week, to weigh and keep a chart. If you find youre up a pound or two, follow a healthy and structured food plan until the extra weight comes off again.
Have planned snacks instead of grazing. To combat rampant, spontaneous snacking, plan a couple of balanced snacks every day that you can measure out and enjoy. Be sure to include some protein and complex carbohydrates in your snack. If you feed yourself a bit more frequently, you will be less likely to graze mindlessly.
Balance your treats with healthy choices. You can have an occasional treat, but you can also have an occasional healthy choice. Keep the treat small so that you dont get a big sugar or unrefined carb rush. And if you must eat sugar or an unrefined carb, eat a little protein with it so that your blood sugar doesnt crash and cause cravings for more of the same.
Admit your trigger foods and avoid them. All you have to do is look at certain foods and you know youll eat them. Dont keep any snack foods in plain site around your house. Put them away. If you find yourself going to the cupboard or refrigerator to peruse the snack items, youll need to keep the trigger foods out of your house altogether.
Experiment and use the tools that work for you. Many dieters hate the act of writing down what they eat. Some dislike exercise. Others abhor weighing and measuring their food. Still others will not give up sugar and unrefined carbs. You need to be honest with yourself, though. These tools are proven to work. So, experiment with all the tools available to you and use the ones that work.
Weight regain is not inevitable, but you need to take action to avoid it. Apply these solutions to your life and you will find weight maintenance to be simple and satisfying.
Katie Jay is the director of the National Association for Weight Loss Surgery, a certified life coach and author of the courageous book, "Dying to Change: My Really Heavy Life Story, How Weight Loss Surgery Gave Me Hope For Living." For more info on the National Association for Weight Loss Surgery see http://www.nawls.com
Article Source: http://www.ladypens.com
Thursday, April 27, 2006
If Janet Jackson Can Do It, So Can I!
Check out the pics of Janet below. Im sure you all heard the rumor of her gaining lots of weight and having to take it off due to her upcoming album. Well from what I heard, she dropped all that weight in 4 months. Wow! Seeing these picture was an inspiration to me and I hope it is to you as well.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Core Training
Core Training by Linda Geyer
Core training is a new focus in our fitness industry. The 90’s fitness world was high-impact, step aerobics and cardio mania. It was all about burning off the fat with little concern for the hip, knee and back areas. We learn from the past and now focus on core conditioning in our workout programs.
The word core is defined as the innermost part. The torso, the midsection of the body, or core, is the base of stability from which movement occurs. For the purpose of this article, consider core conditioning training the deep muscles of the spine, pelvis, hip, shoulder and scapula. When standing unsupported, you are limited by your body’s weakest link. This weak link is the ability of the core, or midsection, to stabilize the body and not be pulled off balance.
Simply put, you don’t build the walls and the roof of your house before the foundation. Your body’s source of strength is your core, much like the foundation of a house. When building or toning a strong body, you want to build from the inside out. Build a foundation (your body’s core) before you build definition in isolated muscles.
Your body goes through a sequence of movements from the inside out. You literally are unable to do an exercise if your body doesn’t start at the core in stabilization. At the core, the rest of your body’s natural links (the pelvic and shoulder girdles) transfer the movements and forces to the extremities, allowing you to lift the weight. The smaller joints will need to absorb less stress if your body practices and increases the ability to sequence these movement patterns. Core training respects this integrated approach, allowing the body to work in mass movement patterns and all ranges of motion. Remember, your body is a unit with the entire system working together and every segment in the chain being equally important.
To apply core training principles, instead of thinking of individual muscles, think of body movements. Lunges, squats, pushing, pulling and rotation movement patterns are good examples. When doing any type of exercise hold your abs and lower back firm to give your entire body support and stability.
In the gym we use the physio ball to help develop the core. Properly using the physio ball can enhance balance, stabilization and strength training to a specific area all at one time. We have clients sit on the ball while performing other exercises, which in turn trains the core at the same time. The benefits of core conditioning are injury prevention from daily activities and sports, as well as stronger foundations for general fitness and body building.
Linda Geyer, entrepreneur, speaker and author has spent her entire career in health related businesses helping clients and audiences make health a priority. She is Founder and CEO of Vitality Management and owner of Peak Physique Fitness Training in Michigan. Linda inspires, motivates and educates on health prevention through exercise, healthy eating and positive attitude. For FREE tips go to http://www.easyexercisetips.com
To contact Linda, email linda@peakphysiquefitness.com
Article Source: http://articleson.com
Core training is a new focus in our fitness industry. The 90’s fitness world was high-impact, step aerobics and cardio mania. It was all about burning off the fat with little concern for the hip, knee and back areas. We learn from the past and now focus on core conditioning in our workout programs.
The word core is defined as the innermost part. The torso, the midsection of the body, or core, is the base of stability from which movement occurs. For the purpose of this article, consider core conditioning training the deep muscles of the spine, pelvis, hip, shoulder and scapula. When standing unsupported, you are limited by your body’s weakest link. This weak link is the ability of the core, or midsection, to stabilize the body and not be pulled off balance.
Simply put, you don’t build the walls and the roof of your house before the foundation. Your body’s source of strength is your core, much like the foundation of a house. When building or toning a strong body, you want to build from the inside out. Build a foundation (your body’s core) before you build definition in isolated muscles.
Your body goes through a sequence of movements from the inside out. You literally are unable to do an exercise if your body doesn’t start at the core in stabilization. At the core, the rest of your body’s natural links (the pelvic and shoulder girdles) transfer the movements and forces to the extremities, allowing you to lift the weight. The smaller joints will need to absorb less stress if your body practices and increases the ability to sequence these movement patterns. Core training respects this integrated approach, allowing the body to work in mass movement patterns and all ranges of motion. Remember, your body is a unit with the entire system working together and every segment in the chain being equally important.
To apply core training principles, instead of thinking of individual muscles, think of body movements. Lunges, squats, pushing, pulling and rotation movement patterns are good examples. When doing any type of exercise hold your abs and lower back firm to give your entire body support and stability.
In the gym we use the physio ball to help develop the core. Properly using the physio ball can enhance balance, stabilization and strength training to a specific area all at one time. We have clients sit on the ball while performing other exercises, which in turn trains the core at the same time. The benefits of core conditioning are injury prevention from daily activities and sports, as well as stronger foundations for general fitness and body building.
Linda Geyer, entrepreneur, speaker and author has spent her entire career in health related businesses helping clients and audiences make health a priority. She is Founder and CEO of Vitality Management and owner of Peak Physique Fitness Training in Michigan. Linda inspires, motivates and educates on health prevention through exercise, healthy eating and positive attitude. For FREE tips go to http://www.easyexercisetips.com
To contact Linda, email linda@peakphysiquefitness.com
Article Source: http://articleson.com
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Help to Reduce Belly Fat
Help to Reduce Belly Fat
By Kathryn Martyn, M.NLP
Can You Lose Weight Where You Want?
If you have excess weight only in specific parts of your body, you still must look at yourself as a whole. It's not possible to spot reduce; in other words, you can't dictate that you only want weight to come off one place or another. In most cases your so called "trouble spots" is where the fat will come off last, so be prepared to lose weight in your fingers (rings fall off) and your face (friends may ask if you're feeling all right) first. There is hope for losing that belly fat though.
Work Toward Building Muscle and Reducing Body Fat
If you work toward building muscle and reducing body fat you will eventually tackle those trouble spots though, and develop a better physique in the process. Muscle tissue is active meaning it requires calories to be maintained. If you were stranded without a food supply, eventually your body would turn to its own muscle tissue as a source of nutrition first (muscles are protein) while saving the fat stores for last. Simply put, fat is nature's way of ensuring survival during times of famine. That's why the prevalence of heart failure kills someone who is severely malnourished. By building more muscle you become a more efficient energy burning machine which translates to mean you can eat more food! That to me is a good thing.
The More Active You Are, The More You Get to Eat!
That explains why some people can eat so much more than others yet not gain weight; your efficient energy burning friend simply has a greater proportion of muscle to fat than you. Muscle is more dense than fat. It's often said that a pound of muscle is heavier than a pound of fat, but the truth is a pound is a pound. What they mean is a one pound volume of muscle is a smaller package than a one pound volume of fat, or put another way, fat is billowy and fluffy while muscle is sleek and compact. Lady No. 1 weighs 120 pounds with 30% body fat so she has 84 pounds of lean tissue and 36 pounds of fat, while Lady No. 2 also weighing 120 pounds but at 18% body fat is carrying roughly 98 pounds of muscle and 22 pounds of fat. Would you rather be Lady No. 1 or Lady No. 2? Which do you think takes up more space, 22 or 36 pounds of fat? I'd say 36 pounds of fat would be a lot bigger package than 22 pounds.
How Much You Weigh is Meaningless
That is why body weight as a number by itself is meaningless, but your ratio of fat to muscle is very important and worth working to change. Strive to decrease your body fat and increase your muscle mass and you'll look better, you'll feel stronger and more energetic and you'll simply be healthier.
You can generally have your body fat tested at fitness centers and most gyms so ask about having it done. It's better to know you have 30% body fat and work to reduce it to 29, than not to know and only think in terms of body weight. Most people who think only of how much they weigh tend to do everything to reduce that weight, and it's usually at the expense of losing more valuable muscle.
The best way to increase muscle and decrease fat is through a consistent exercise program. Start at whatever is your beginning, but do start.
Begin with an overall body conditioning type exercise program, doing whatever you enjoy, whether it be a sport, gardening, weight lifting, biking, hiking, or any other activity. Any physical movement you do regularly counts as exercise even if it is doing laundry or taking out the trash. Get as much as you can out of every chore you do, and stop thinking of it as a chore but instead as an opportunity to move your body.
In the early 1900s a washing machine was a new invention. People used to wash their clothes by hand, and hang them outside to dry. Being a housewife was actually a pretty strenuous job. It's no wonder women were thankful for modern conveniences like automatic washers and dryers, but now we've come to where our daily activities are not taking our bodies at all, so unless we want to get fatter and fatter we must do something about it.
Get Fit and Belly Fat Disappears
It doesn't make sense to drive around and around in the parking lot looking for the closest space when you're on your way to run or walk on the treadmill. Why take the elevator five flights every day at work and then pay a monthly fee to do the StairMaster after work? What if we all started to notice that our world is full of exercise equipment.
We could become so much more fit if we'd just start to notice all the opportunities for physical movement we miss in the name of convenience. Look around and see if you can spot some exercise opportunities, and then get busy and get fit.
~~ Kathryn Martyn, Master NLP Practitioner, EFT counselor, author of the free e-book: Changing Beliefs, Your First Step to Permanent Weight Loss, and owner of OneMoreBite-Weightloss.com
Get The Daily Bites: Inspirational Mini Lessons Using EFT and NLP for Ending the Struggle with Weight Loss.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Martyn,_M.NLP
By Kathryn Martyn, M.NLP
Can You Lose Weight Where You Want?
If you have excess weight only in specific parts of your body, you still must look at yourself as a whole. It's not possible to spot reduce; in other words, you can't dictate that you only want weight to come off one place or another. In most cases your so called "trouble spots" is where the fat will come off last, so be prepared to lose weight in your fingers (rings fall off) and your face (friends may ask if you're feeling all right) first. There is hope for losing that belly fat though.
Work Toward Building Muscle and Reducing Body Fat
If you work toward building muscle and reducing body fat you will eventually tackle those trouble spots though, and develop a better physique in the process. Muscle tissue is active meaning it requires calories to be maintained. If you were stranded without a food supply, eventually your body would turn to its own muscle tissue as a source of nutrition first (muscles are protein) while saving the fat stores for last. Simply put, fat is nature's way of ensuring survival during times of famine. That's why the prevalence of heart failure kills someone who is severely malnourished. By building more muscle you become a more efficient energy burning machine which translates to mean you can eat more food! That to me is a good thing.
The More Active You Are, The More You Get to Eat!
That explains why some people can eat so much more than others yet not gain weight; your efficient energy burning friend simply has a greater proportion of muscle to fat than you. Muscle is more dense than fat. It's often said that a pound of muscle is heavier than a pound of fat, but the truth is a pound is a pound. What they mean is a one pound volume of muscle is a smaller package than a one pound volume of fat, or put another way, fat is billowy and fluffy while muscle is sleek and compact. Lady No. 1 weighs 120 pounds with 30% body fat so she has 84 pounds of lean tissue and 36 pounds of fat, while Lady No. 2 also weighing 120 pounds but at 18% body fat is carrying roughly 98 pounds of muscle and 22 pounds of fat. Would you rather be Lady No. 1 or Lady No. 2? Which do you think takes up more space, 22 or 36 pounds of fat? I'd say 36 pounds of fat would be a lot bigger package than 22 pounds.
How Much You Weigh is Meaningless
That is why body weight as a number by itself is meaningless, but your ratio of fat to muscle is very important and worth working to change. Strive to decrease your body fat and increase your muscle mass and you'll look better, you'll feel stronger and more energetic and you'll simply be healthier.
You can generally have your body fat tested at fitness centers and most gyms so ask about having it done. It's better to know you have 30% body fat and work to reduce it to 29, than not to know and only think in terms of body weight. Most people who think only of how much they weigh tend to do everything to reduce that weight, and it's usually at the expense of losing more valuable muscle.
The best way to increase muscle and decrease fat is through a consistent exercise program. Start at whatever is your beginning, but do start.
Begin with an overall body conditioning type exercise program, doing whatever you enjoy, whether it be a sport, gardening, weight lifting, biking, hiking, or any other activity. Any physical movement you do regularly counts as exercise even if it is doing laundry or taking out the trash. Get as much as you can out of every chore you do, and stop thinking of it as a chore but instead as an opportunity to move your body.
In the early 1900s a washing machine was a new invention. People used to wash their clothes by hand, and hang them outside to dry. Being a housewife was actually a pretty strenuous job. It's no wonder women were thankful for modern conveniences like automatic washers and dryers, but now we've come to where our daily activities are not taking our bodies at all, so unless we want to get fatter and fatter we must do something about it.
Get Fit and Belly Fat Disappears
It doesn't make sense to drive around and around in the parking lot looking for the closest space when you're on your way to run or walk on the treadmill. Why take the elevator five flights every day at work and then pay a monthly fee to do the StairMaster after work? What if we all started to notice that our world is full of exercise equipment.
We could become so much more fit if we'd just start to notice all the opportunities for physical movement we miss in the name of convenience. Look around and see if you can spot some exercise opportunities, and then get busy and get fit.
~~ Kathryn Martyn, Master NLP Practitioner, EFT counselor, author of the free e-book: Changing Beliefs, Your First Step to Permanent Weight Loss, and owner of OneMoreBite-Weightloss.com
Get The Daily Bites: Inspirational Mini Lessons Using EFT and NLP for Ending the Struggle with Weight Loss.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Martyn,_M.NLP
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Tips and Motivational Advice for Keeping Fit One Day at a Time
Tips and Motivational Advice for Keeping Fit One Day at a Time
by Beverley Brooke
Let's face it...
Losing weight and feeling great isn't easy.
BUT the journey is well worth it!
Many people commit to their health and well being via a New Years resolution. Why not? The New Year is a great time to make a fresh start and commitment to your health.
How do you remain motivated however for an entire year?
The single most important piece of advice I can offer you is this:
Don't give up, and pick yourself back up when you stumble or fall.
Everyone slips here and there. Just because you had one cheat day doesn't mean your entire fitness and exercise program needs to be ruined.
On the contrary. Everyone slips now and again.
The key to sticking with a program is to make the slips MUCH less frequent than the days you are firmly committed to your program.
So have that piece of chocolate on occasion and don't beat yourself up for it.
Here are some additional great ideas for staying motivated throughout the year:
Tip 1
Don't make a habit of skipping breakfast.
You should never skip breakfast. It is the most important meal of the day, and revs your metabolism to burn calories each and every day.
When you skip breakfast, you are more likely to overeat and then feel guilty later in the day.
Tip 2
Don't weigh yourself every day. In fact, you should weigh yourself only once a week, and when you do you should do it at the same time wearing nothing.
Why? Your weight actually fluctuates a good 2-5 pounds from day to day.
Much of this is associated with fluid retention, thus has nothing to do with your actual fat gain or loss. Weighing yourself too often can be discouraging rather than encouraging.
Tip 3
Grab a partner in crime.
Find someone that can be your partner in fitness. Call them when you are feeling unmotivated, and have them do the same.
You are more likely to stay motivated if you have someone to lean on when times get tough.
Tip 4
Don't skip a workout because you are tired.
Did you know that working out will actually help invigorate you? If you are truly exhausted, consider toning down your workout, but never give it up completely!
Tip 5
Reward yourself on occasion.
All work and no play is not the way to go when it comes to your overall health and well being.
Consider booking yourself for a massage or other pampering treat each month to keep you feeling great mentally and physically.
Last but not least, remember to take small steps.
Don't set outrageous goals. You won't lose 10 pounds in one week, but you might lose up to 2.
Over inflated goals will only serve to defeat you in the long run. Set reasonable goals and you will find yourself much more motivated throughout the year!
About the Author
Beverley Brooke, Editor of Health & Finesse - Free health, diet and fitness articles and weekly newsletter http://www.healthandfinesse.com
by Beverley Brooke
Let's face it...
Losing weight and feeling great isn't easy.
BUT the journey is well worth it!
Many people commit to their health and well being via a New Years resolution. Why not? The New Year is a great time to make a fresh start and commitment to your health.
How do you remain motivated however for an entire year?
The single most important piece of advice I can offer you is this:
Don't give up, and pick yourself back up when you stumble or fall.
Everyone slips here and there. Just because you had one cheat day doesn't mean your entire fitness and exercise program needs to be ruined.
On the contrary. Everyone slips now and again.
The key to sticking with a program is to make the slips MUCH less frequent than the days you are firmly committed to your program.
So have that piece of chocolate on occasion and don't beat yourself up for it.
Here are some additional great ideas for staying motivated throughout the year:
Tip 1
Don't make a habit of skipping breakfast.
You should never skip breakfast. It is the most important meal of the day, and revs your metabolism to burn calories each and every day.
When you skip breakfast, you are more likely to overeat and then feel guilty later in the day.
Tip 2
Don't weigh yourself every day. In fact, you should weigh yourself only once a week, and when you do you should do it at the same time wearing nothing.
Why? Your weight actually fluctuates a good 2-5 pounds from day to day.
Much of this is associated with fluid retention, thus has nothing to do with your actual fat gain or loss. Weighing yourself too often can be discouraging rather than encouraging.
Tip 3
Grab a partner in crime.
Find someone that can be your partner in fitness. Call them when you are feeling unmotivated, and have them do the same.
You are more likely to stay motivated if you have someone to lean on when times get tough.
Tip 4
Don't skip a workout because you are tired.
Did you know that working out will actually help invigorate you? If you are truly exhausted, consider toning down your workout, but never give it up completely!
Tip 5
Reward yourself on occasion.
All work and no play is not the way to go when it comes to your overall health and well being.
Consider booking yourself for a massage or other pampering treat each month to keep you feeling great mentally and physically.
Last but not least, remember to take small steps.
Don't set outrageous goals. You won't lose 10 pounds in one week, but you might lose up to 2.
Over inflated goals will only serve to defeat you in the long run. Set reasonable goals and you will find yourself much more motivated throughout the year!
About the Author
Beverley Brooke, Editor of Health & Finesse - Free health, diet and fitness articles and weekly newsletter http://www.healthandfinesse.com
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Easy Dieting Tips and Tricks
Easy Dieting Tips and Tricks
By Stuart Simpson
What can you do to loose weight? There are some simple ideas to help you. You know what they are but try practicing these simple and effective ideas to lose weight and stay slim.
Eat Breakfast. Skipping this meal may cause you to overeat later in the day. If you do have a piece of toast, skip the butter. You’ll be better off to have preserves on it than high fat butter or margarine.
Don’t let your caloric intake drop below 1200 calories a day. This is a minimal number your body needs to function. When you do this, your metabolism slows and so do you. Your body actually starts to shut down as it thinks you are starving. I use to do this. I was tired all the time. It wasn’t worth it.
Writing a food journal can help you establish if you are eating for hunger or to an emotional or social response. It also helps you trace back to see if any foods have made you ill or you have an adverse reaction to some foods.
High fiber foods are not only good for you, but they give you a full feeling. Try to find foods with at least 2 grams of fiber per serving. Whole grains and bread aren’t the devil. When choosing bread, a high fiber choice may keep you from overindulging.
Trans fats are bad. Check the labels. Watch out for “partially hydrogenated oils.” This also goes for when you eat out. Ask for your salad dressingon the side. A loaded salad can easily have your entire calorie allotment for one day.
Eat Slowly. It takes your stomach 20 minutes to feel full. Don’t drink calories. Instead of soda, order water or unsweetened tea. I know, but after a while, you get used to it. Besides, it’s cheaper to drink water in most restaurants.
I hope these basic tips and ideas will get you back on the path not only to healthy eating, but possible weight loss.
Stuart Simpson
http://www.best-diet-review.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Simpson
By Stuart Simpson
What can you do to loose weight? There are some simple ideas to help you. You know what they are but try practicing these simple and effective ideas to lose weight and stay slim.
Eat Breakfast. Skipping this meal may cause you to overeat later in the day. If you do have a piece of toast, skip the butter. You’ll be better off to have preserves on it than high fat butter or margarine.
Don’t let your caloric intake drop below 1200 calories a day. This is a minimal number your body needs to function. When you do this, your metabolism slows and so do you. Your body actually starts to shut down as it thinks you are starving. I use to do this. I was tired all the time. It wasn’t worth it.
Writing a food journal can help you establish if you are eating for hunger or to an emotional or social response. It also helps you trace back to see if any foods have made you ill or you have an adverse reaction to some foods.
High fiber foods are not only good for you, but they give you a full feeling. Try to find foods with at least 2 grams of fiber per serving. Whole grains and bread aren’t the devil. When choosing bread, a high fiber choice may keep you from overindulging.
Trans fats are bad. Check the labels. Watch out for “partially hydrogenated oils.” This also goes for when you eat out. Ask for your salad dressingon the side. A loaded salad can easily have your entire calorie allotment for one day.
Eat Slowly. It takes your stomach 20 minutes to feel full. Don’t drink calories. Instead of soda, order water or unsweetened tea. I know, but after a while, you get used to it. Besides, it’s cheaper to drink water in most restaurants.
I hope these basic tips and ideas will get you back on the path not only to healthy eating, but possible weight loss.
Stuart Simpson
http://www.best-diet-review.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Simpson
Monday, April 03, 2006
FAT LOSS: The Truth on Fat Loss and how to Achieve it!
FAT LOSS: The Truth on Fat Loss and how to Achieve it!
Fat Loss in General
This morning I conducted a search engine "search" on the word fat loss. "Fat Loss" and "Fat Loss Supplements", being the most popular keywords, came up with a combined 1800 links, in one search engine. I went to the next search engine I ran a word count on "fat loss" rather than a link count. The results came up as 46106! WOW! Why is it that fat loss / losing body fat related information and products are so much in demand, yet obesity and being overweight are on the up and up, and are actually at the highest rate ever. With the health and fitness industry booming it seems absurd that this is occurring. Doesn't it?
Temptation and Obstacles Effecting Your Attempts at Fat Loss
The fact is that losing body fat or fat loss is not easy. We are tempted every day with fast fatty and sugary foods with super deals of quick easy meals involving drive through access and home delivery. These fast food meals are "fast" and often "affordable" with meal deals for a family of four sometimes costing under $10 - $12. Who wouldn't pass this up! Before you know it, it's the end of the day, the family is hungry, dinner time is drawing nigh and your beat. I can fully understand why people choose this option when our lifestyles are so hectic.
The Alcohol "Social and Relaxation" Temptation
An odd heading for this paragraph, I know, but I needed to draw your attention to the fact that alcohol will not help your fat loss efforts. I know we hear the saying so often that "doctors say that it's healthy to have one or two wines per day", however this is in regards to the properties of red wine assisting in the prevention of clogged arteries - not a fat loss miracle! If red wine is necessary for medicinal purposes and perscribed by a doctor then obviously your health comes first. However the topic here is fat loss........................
My views are "everything in moderation". BUT I DO KNOW THAT if you want to make a genuine effort to lose body fat that a couple of alcoholic drinks per day could easily effect your fat loss attempts. So unless your's is the case above then I would seriously think about "cutting back".
Since I began as a trainer years ago I have found that it is usually junk food or alcohol that prevents my clients from losing body fat. Just going without those few EXTRA drinks after work or consuming less alcohol at social gatherings will make a considerable difference to how much body fat you lose.
Quit Fooling Yourself
Do not fool yourself by thinking that if you just exercise for one extra session per week you can rid yourself of all those extra calories and fat from alcohol and food. Unfortunately our bodies aren't that easily fixed.
Why Most People Don't Succeed at Losing Body Fat
Other than the temptations mentioned above people tend not to succeed at fat loss because they are either not committed, not well informed on fat loss or they are committed for the wrong reasons. In other words you either aren't abiding by the rules, or have been mislead by some other belief or you are trying to lose body fat because you are trying to keep other people happy by doing so rather than yourself.
Making Sure You are Trying to Lose Body Fat to Please YOU, Not Everyone Else.
Think about why it is you want to lose body fat. Make sure you really want to put in 100ffort.. You want to feel great about making this decision not obliged to do it. Losing body fat can help increase your self-esteem as well as boosting your health so giving it your best shot with a positive frame of mind is always the "way to go".
Things that You Should Do Before You Get Started!
First you may want to make notes on what time of the day, when and where that you will most probably find it the most difficult to stick to this program. If, say for instance, "calling in at the drive thru for fast food on the way home from work or picking the children up" is where you find that you are most likely to go wrong then be prepared for it by making the appropriate changes. eg Having a meal which is already partly prepared in the fridge so that it will only take an extra 10 - 15 minutes to cook. Being organised with food preparation is very very important. It is exhausting coming home after a long day and realising you have to then organise something for dinner (amongst other things) You can bet the children would jump for joy if you offered them Mac's - so you do - at least there is no washing up the dishes after dinner either...Sound familiar?
Re-orgnanising Your Lifestyle - Don't Make it Difficult on Yourself!
Re-orgnanising your lifestyle may be quite a challenge for most people and families. But if you want to succeed at fat loss I am sure you want to be able to do it without tearing your hair out. Your goal is to re-arrange and plan your day so that you, your family and your new lifestyle can run smoothly. Such as planning your low-fat meals and recipes in a diary. Planning your grocery shop with a shopping list to prevent you from buying unnecessary junk food is also a great idea. Pre-preparing meals, making appointments for your exercise time slot etc all needs to be written into your appointment book or diary. You can tick each appointment off as the day progresses. When planning your shopping list remember, that unless you have the time, don't go getting all creative with lowfat banquets etc for lunches and dinner. Choose simple to prepare ingredients and meals.
What Exercise Should I be Performing to Burn Body Fat?
There seems to be alot of controversy over what to do and what not to do when it comes to "fat burning" exercise. Mostly it depends on your fitness level and if you have any type of injuries, back pain or medical conditions that may affect what you can and can't do. Make sure you check with your doctor first before starting any type of exercise or eating program, so he / she can indicate and provide you with a letter verifying that it is "ok" for you to start exercising and at what level.
Different Types of Exercising for Fat Burning
Treadmills, indoor cycles, cardiovascular machines etc any of these are great for performing fat burning exercise, provided your doctor says it's cool to go ahead with it. If you enjoy being outdoors then walking and cycling are also great. Finding a program that suits your bodies needs and fitness level is important. Make sure you add variety to your fat burning program as you advance adding hills, inclines and speed rather than increasing the time. A reasonable time for fat burning is approx 20 - 30 mins.
You should also know that if you increase the time of your fat burning session, and not the intensity and other variations, you will find that as you advance your program your sessions may become too long. This will only encourage you to think that your exercise is becoming too time consuming and a chore - which will lead you to "throwing in the towel". So keep up the variety to keep it interesting.
The Wrong Program for You: A Common Mistake that Leads to Lack of Fat Loss
Have you ever read a successful fat loss story that you, and everyone else you know, tried only to find that it didn't work that well for you or them? Did you stop to think that maybe the person in the success story had their program specifically designed for their body type, not yours! If you really want to "kick some fat loss butt" you need a program that is designed to suit your body type and fitness level. Don't expect super results from a program that someone else used, remember they may have had a different metabolism, fitness level, body shape and eating program to you, which makes it very difficult for you to reach the same levels of fatloss as they did.
FREE FAT LOSS EXERCISE Sample Program
This program is a sample program to give you an idea of the variations you can use for your fat burning programs.
Where to go from here.............
After reading this article you should have a greater knowledge of where you may be going wrong with your fat loss or how to get started on a new fat burning program.
If you are keen to get started on your own personally designed health and fitness program please feel welcome to visit my web site: http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com/.
I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Happy Training!
Kind Regards Yours in fun, health and fitness Mandy GibbonsVirtual Fitness Trainer http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com/
Fat Loss in General
This morning I conducted a search engine "search" on the word fat loss. "Fat Loss" and "Fat Loss Supplements", being the most popular keywords, came up with a combined 1800 links, in one search engine. I went to the next search engine I ran a word count on "fat loss" rather than a link count. The results came up as 46106! WOW! Why is it that fat loss / losing body fat related information and products are so much in demand, yet obesity and being overweight are on the up and up, and are actually at the highest rate ever. With the health and fitness industry booming it seems absurd that this is occurring. Doesn't it?
Temptation and Obstacles Effecting Your Attempts at Fat Loss
The fact is that losing body fat or fat loss is not easy. We are tempted every day with fast fatty and sugary foods with super deals of quick easy meals involving drive through access and home delivery. These fast food meals are "fast" and often "affordable" with meal deals for a family of four sometimes costing under $10 - $12. Who wouldn't pass this up! Before you know it, it's the end of the day, the family is hungry, dinner time is drawing nigh and your beat. I can fully understand why people choose this option when our lifestyles are so hectic.
The Alcohol "Social and Relaxation" Temptation
An odd heading for this paragraph, I know, but I needed to draw your attention to the fact that alcohol will not help your fat loss efforts. I know we hear the saying so often that "doctors say that it's healthy to have one or two wines per day", however this is in regards to the properties of red wine assisting in the prevention of clogged arteries - not a fat loss miracle! If red wine is necessary for medicinal purposes and perscribed by a doctor then obviously your health comes first. However the topic here is fat loss........................
My views are "everything in moderation". BUT I DO KNOW THAT if you want to make a genuine effort to lose body fat that a couple of alcoholic drinks per day could easily effect your fat loss attempts. So unless your's is the case above then I would seriously think about "cutting back".
Since I began as a trainer years ago I have found that it is usually junk food or alcohol that prevents my clients from losing body fat. Just going without those few EXTRA drinks after work or consuming less alcohol at social gatherings will make a considerable difference to how much body fat you lose.
Quit Fooling Yourself
Do not fool yourself by thinking that if you just exercise for one extra session per week you can rid yourself of all those extra calories and fat from alcohol and food. Unfortunately our bodies aren't that easily fixed.
Why Most People Don't Succeed at Losing Body Fat
Other than the temptations mentioned above people tend not to succeed at fat loss because they are either not committed, not well informed on fat loss or they are committed for the wrong reasons. In other words you either aren't abiding by the rules, or have been mislead by some other belief or you are trying to lose body fat because you are trying to keep other people happy by doing so rather than yourself.
Making Sure You are Trying to Lose Body Fat to Please YOU, Not Everyone Else.
Think about why it is you want to lose body fat. Make sure you really want to put in 100ffort.. You want to feel great about making this decision not obliged to do it. Losing body fat can help increase your self-esteem as well as boosting your health so giving it your best shot with a positive frame of mind is always the "way to go".
Things that You Should Do Before You Get Started!
First you may want to make notes on what time of the day, when and where that you will most probably find it the most difficult to stick to this program. If, say for instance, "calling in at the drive thru for fast food on the way home from work or picking the children up" is where you find that you are most likely to go wrong then be prepared for it by making the appropriate changes. eg Having a meal which is already partly prepared in the fridge so that it will only take an extra 10 - 15 minutes to cook. Being organised with food preparation is very very important. It is exhausting coming home after a long day and realising you have to then organise something for dinner (amongst other things) You can bet the children would jump for joy if you offered them Mac's - so you do - at least there is no washing up the dishes after dinner either...Sound familiar?
Re-orgnanising Your Lifestyle - Don't Make it Difficult on Yourself!
Re-orgnanising your lifestyle may be quite a challenge for most people and families. But if you want to succeed at fat loss I am sure you want to be able to do it without tearing your hair out. Your goal is to re-arrange and plan your day so that you, your family and your new lifestyle can run smoothly. Such as planning your low-fat meals and recipes in a diary. Planning your grocery shop with a shopping list to prevent you from buying unnecessary junk food is also a great idea. Pre-preparing meals, making appointments for your exercise time slot etc all needs to be written into your appointment book or diary. You can tick each appointment off as the day progresses. When planning your shopping list remember, that unless you have the time, don't go getting all creative with lowfat banquets etc for lunches and dinner. Choose simple to prepare ingredients and meals.
What Exercise Should I be Performing to Burn Body Fat?
There seems to be alot of controversy over what to do and what not to do when it comes to "fat burning" exercise. Mostly it depends on your fitness level and if you have any type of injuries, back pain or medical conditions that may affect what you can and can't do. Make sure you check with your doctor first before starting any type of exercise or eating program, so he / she can indicate and provide you with a letter verifying that it is "ok" for you to start exercising and at what level.
Different Types of Exercising for Fat Burning
Treadmills, indoor cycles, cardiovascular machines etc any of these are great for performing fat burning exercise, provided your doctor says it's cool to go ahead with it. If you enjoy being outdoors then walking and cycling are also great. Finding a program that suits your bodies needs and fitness level is important. Make sure you add variety to your fat burning program as you advance adding hills, inclines and speed rather than increasing the time. A reasonable time for fat burning is approx 20 - 30 mins.
You should also know that if you increase the time of your fat burning session, and not the intensity and other variations, you will find that as you advance your program your sessions may become too long. This will only encourage you to think that your exercise is becoming too time consuming and a chore - which will lead you to "throwing in the towel". So keep up the variety to keep it interesting.
The Wrong Program for You: A Common Mistake that Leads to Lack of Fat Loss
Have you ever read a successful fat loss story that you, and everyone else you know, tried only to find that it didn't work that well for you or them? Did you stop to think that maybe the person in the success story had their program specifically designed for their body type, not yours! If you really want to "kick some fat loss butt" you need a program that is designed to suit your body type and fitness level. Don't expect super results from a program that someone else used, remember they may have had a different metabolism, fitness level, body shape and eating program to you, which makes it very difficult for you to reach the same levels of fatloss as they did.
FREE FAT LOSS EXERCISE Sample Program
This program is a sample program to give you an idea of the variations you can use for your fat burning programs.
Where to go from here.............
After reading this article you should have a greater knowledge of where you may be going wrong with your fat loss or how to get started on a new fat burning program.
If you are keen to get started on your own personally designed health and fitness program please feel welcome to visit my web site: http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com/.
I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Happy Training!
Kind Regards Yours in fun, health and fitness Mandy GibbonsVirtual Fitness Trainer http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com/
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