Fitness Motivation & Goals

Despite the physical punishment that we put ourselves through to achieve results, it can be just as difficult to control the mind to maintain the motivation and focus. Every journey begins with a single step and so it is with exercise; Day to day gains are hardly perceptible but it's the sum of the parts which makes the difference in the long run. Like learning to play an instrument, it's the endless hours of practice which count for the difference in the end.

As with any long journey it's helpful to have a map or in our case a set of goals. These should be short (3 months), medium (6 months) and long term (1 year) and after one year we reset our objectives. As in business, goals should be SMART:

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Realistic
Time Bound

A SMART goal could be to reduce body fat by 10%, through diet and fitness, within 3 months. Your goals should be realistic, otherwise they can have the opposite effect and simply de-motivate and crush your confidence.

Whilst the goals serve as objectives you will also need planning in order to attain them. Here, it is simply best to plan for the week ahead - think about your routine (weight,sets and reps) and your diet. It is useful to have a training log which you can design yourself or can easily be obtained over the web. Planning for diet could mean shopping and planning for the meals ahead, otherwise there's a tendency to eat whatever is in the cupboard, which may not necessarily be the best option.

Here are some tips and ideas to maintain motivation:

Count down on reps - Psychologically it seems much easier when the number is decreasing and the target is getting smaller, rather than getting larger.

Do least favorite sets first while you are fresh and when motivation is probably at its peak, to get them out of the way.

Mix up the routine to keep it varied - If a machine is busy, rather than standing and waiting, move on the next available piece of equipment in your exercise routine and then return when it frees up.

Don't weigh yourself everyday - it doesn't matter if you're trying to lose weight or bulk up, the same principle applies. Weighing yourself everyday is like watching stock prices every 15 minutes and I believe is counter-productive.

After a hard day, and when the absolutely last thing you want to do is go down the gym, think ahead to two short hours time, when you could be energized and feeling mentally and physically positive.

Be in the moment - concentrate on what you're doing at that moment in time; form, posture, technique and don't get distracted or worry about anything else. A good low-impact cardio exercise is cycling, which as you do, you should have your head down, thinking about the next 20 yards, rather than looking ahead 1 mile further down the road, where there seems to be no end in sight.

In summary, set yourselves realistic objectives at timely intervals and have a plan on how you propose to achieve them.

About the Author: Paul Vincent Clark is a Health & Fitness promoter and has over 20 years training experience. Visit http://mens-health.typepad.com for the latest articles and resources to achieve your Health & Fitness goals.

How To Prevent Diabetes

A relatively informative article. Prevention is better than cure. According to studies, it has been found that with proper exercise and diet, it is possible to slow the onset or fight the disease. The author has numerous articles about diabetes in her website which you can read for more information too. It is our responsibility to take care of our own health. Wishing you Great health.

How to prevent Diabetes has been a concern for many of us since we were kids. In my own family, my baby cousin was born with diabetes, so she had to have shots—injected once a day by my aunt, who just happened to be a Registered Nurse. Of course, while this many years later we have sub-lingual solutions, we have different levels of Diabetes (those not requiring shots included), and we have do-it-yourself daily blood glucose testing, for those with Diabetes or those with a concern for how to prevent Diabetes from going full speed ahead into full blown stages of the disease.

Besides my cousin on my mother’s side having the disease, on my biological father’s side, my grandfather had it. So my emphasis has always been (as it was taught to me) how to prevent Diabetes from setting in if you are genetically prone to it but don’t yet have it.

Is there a surefire solution for how to prevent Diabetes, though? Yes and no. Evidently, we can “delay” such forms of the illness as Type 2 Diabetes. According to such institutions and studies as NIDDK (National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases) and NIH (National Institute of Health), diet and exercise are found to help stave off the onset and symptoms. These findings are only reinforced by the additional smaller studies by organizations and institutes all over the world: from Finland to China, it has been found that at-risk people can slow the onset or fight the disease with rigorous exercise (with a goal of losing 2 to 7 percent body weight) and balanced, low sugar diets (with a goal of avoiding “trigger” foods). The sugars mentioned include, that is, sucrose, fructose, lactose, and other sugar forms found naturally and synthetically present in most foods.

In addition, from what I understand, Diabetes Prevention programs set up a regime that includes, besides diet and exercise, standard care and the drug metformin. According to CDC (Center for Disease Control), the studies applying such treatment/prevention measures found that participants who included a healthy diet, metformin, and moderate physical activity of 30 minutes a day/5 days a week, reduced their risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes by 58%!

I used to go every year but now go every two years to get a glucose tolerance test along with a general physical. And since I have Diabetes in my family history, the doc always admonishes me about “dumping great amounts of sugar” into my system. If I can conquer that, and walk at least five days a week, you can too!

About the Author: Ann Merier writes articles about the home and family health in general. Her latest articles are about diabetes. Prevent Diabetes, Mothers Day

Walk Every Day By Jonathon Hardcastle

An interesting article on walking. Walking is a natural activity that we do everyday and if you have that 30 minutes a day for a few days a week, this could be something which you can try. Consult your doctor first before starting any exercise routine. Wishing you great health!

When it comes to exercise we each determine what we can or cannot do, and how hard we push ourselves. Some follow the all-or-nothing principle, believing that if exercise is good for you it has to be hard, even painful. Experts have recommended high-impact aerobic exercise as a means for increasing bone mass, but a review of numerous studies on aerobic exercise and bone mineral density suggests that walking just 30 minutes per day a few days a week is enough to moderately increase overall bone density. Specifically, an eight-year study of 13,000 people found that those who walked 30 minutes a day had a significantly lower risk of premature death than those who rarely exercised.

As a fitness activity, walking has become more popular over the years as it offers many health benefits:

- Consistent walking can help reduce body fat, cholesterol levels, increase cardiovascular endurance, resting heart rate and lower blood pressure.

- Regular walking, using a moderate intensity, strengthens the immune system, burns calories and keeps weight stable.

- Walking is a natural form of movement and, unlike high impact exercise, does not place excess stress on the joints and boosts bone strength.

- Studies suggest regular walking can help prevent colon cancer.

- Walking is an excellent way to prevent diabetes and heart disease, when combined with a proper diet.

A walking program is simple to start. All one needs are comfortable clothes and shoes; layer loose clothing and shoes specifically designed for walking are the best. One should also keep in mind that every workout should begin with a brief warm-up and a few simple stretches. Walking around the house or in place for a few minutes to get the blood flowing to the muscles before attempting to stretch them is a good strategy. Although walking primarily works the major muscles of the legs, people should not forget to stretch their back, shoulders and arms. This will help them loosen up any tension they may be carrying and make their walk more enjoyable as well as more effective. In addition, beginning walkers can make their workouts less strenuous by limiting how fast and far they walk and focus on good posture, keeping the head lifted and the shoulders relaxed, and move arms naturally.

The popularity of walking as a fitness activity is growing by leaps and bounds. Low risk and easy to start, walking has proved its health benefits in numerous studies. In fact, walking exercise helps strengthen bones because it forces them to bear weight, which is why high-impact exercise elicits even greater gains in bone density. Concluding, walking, the oldest form of exercise, just may be the key to achieving new levels of fitness, particularly for those who need to start with small, achievable goals to get, and stay, on track.

About the Author: Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles on many topics including Fitness, Food, and Nursing

10 Naturally Sweet Cures To Try by James Calvin

An interesting article from James Calvin about Honey. Didn't know that honey can be so useful. I have read through some discussion previously about the benefits of honey. Personally when my siblings and myself have sore throat, our mother would make us a drink, which is a mixture of honey and lime. Not only does it taste good, it also helps to relief the sore throat. Wishing everyone with great health.

Honey, especially mixed with cinnamon, can cure a multitude of ailments. Honey is produced in all parts of the world. Scientists of today believe honey can be used without any side affects for a number of diseases. Honey is sweet but if taken in the right dosage as a medicine it won't harm diabetic patients. It's important to remember that these ten natural sweet cures haven't been independently verified. These are homeopathic cures, many passed down from generation to generation. I found many uses of honey mixed with cinnamon to cure ailments from heart disease, acne, hair loss, and gas. I will focus on the top ten cures to try.

Arthritis is one disease that can be cured with honey. One part honey to two parts of lukewarm water and a teaspoon of cinnamon will make a paste that will noticeably reduce pain in a matter of a couple of minutes. Patients suffering from arthritis can take one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon once in the morning and again in the evening. It's been said that taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. Copenhagen University tested their theory by giving patients a mixture of one tablespoon of hone and one half teaspoon of cinnamon before breakfast. The results were that within a week, 73 patients out of 200 were relieved of pain and within a month, arthritis patients could again walk without pain.

Cholesterol is said to be treatable with honey. Mix two tablespoons of honey and three tablespoons of cinnamon in 16 ounces of tea. This mixture is said to reduce the level of cholesterol by ten percent within a short amount of time. As with arthritis, it is said that pure honey taken with food daily will reduce cholesterol levels. Along the same lines, using cinnamon and honey on bread and eaten at breakfast revitalized the arteries and veins leading to the heart and helpful towards preventing heart attacks.

Men, pay attention! A mixture of hot olive oil, one tablespoon of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon made into a paste can help baldness and hair loss. Apply the paste before your shower and leave it on for approximately five to fifteen minutes then wash the hair.

In India and Japan honey and cinnamon is said to help relieve gas, stomachaches and clears stomach ulcers at the root. If honey and cinnamon are taken before eating it helps digest even the heaviest of meals.

Colds can be treated with honey. One tablespoon honey with ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon taken daily is said to cure most chronic coughs and clear the sinuses. You can also make up a mixture of honey, whiskey and lemon juice. If it doesn't clear your cough, at least maybe you'll sleep.

Pimples, the curse for both young and old can be removed within two weeks if this remedy is applied. Make a paste of three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon. Put the pimples on before going to bed and wash it off the next morning.

Now here's a big one. Weight loss. Twice daily, once at night, and one in the morning ½ hour before breakfast drink a cup of boiled hot water with honey and cinnamon. It's been said that even the most obese patient can lose weight and drinking this mixture doesn't allow the fat to accumulate in the body.

Studies have shown that chronic fatigue can be helped by honey. One half tablespoon of honey in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon in the morning and in the afternoon will increase your vitality within a week.

Infertility is a problem that ancient people in the Far East treated with honey. It was said to strengthen the semen of men. Two tablespoons of honey taken before bed is said to also correct impotency. A touch of cinnamon in one half teaspoon of honey and applied to the gums throughout the day will help a woman conceive. Mixing it with the saliva lets it slowly enter the body.

Finally, bad breath is said to be helpful if gargled in the morning. One teaspoon of honey and cinnamon mixed in hot water is supposed to keep breath fresh all day.

About the Author: Are Allergies and Asthma Taking the FUN OUT OF LIFE? Who Else Wants To Learn One Simple Way To Totally Eliminate Asthma And Allergy Attacks, ALL Without Using Drugs And Inhalers Now...

Is Anti-Aging Action In Red Wine And Resveratrol Real?

This article gives you a good reason to drink red wine. Its for the good of your health. However, don't overdo. Anything overdo will have its adverse effect; consume in moderation. Wishing everyone good health.

Results of various studies have indicated that daily consumption of three to five glasses of red wine reduced all-cause mortality by an amazing 49% compared to non-drinkers, which is great news for antiaging aficionados. Now, this may sound great and it is, but greater results can be achieved more easily. The reason that the red wine works in anti-aging is because it's a great source of resveratrol. Harvard Medical School and the National Institute of Aging report that a natural substance found in red wine, known as resveratrol, offsets the bad effects of a high-calorie diet in mice and significantly extends their lifespan. The resveratrol supplements generally contain a potent combination of nutrients high in antioxidants.

An article was published in the November 2006 edition of the prestigious science journal Nature. Researchers from Harvard Medical School and the National Institute of Aging reported on a study performed in mice given resveratrol. This anti-aging study determined that the resveratrol-treated mice had improvement in the physical quality of their lives in addition to . Researchers gauged how well the mice could walk on a rotating rod. Those treated with resveratrol did substantially better than those that didn't receive resveratrol.

Boston University Medical Center researchers found resveratrol in mice activated the AMP enzyme better than commonly used anti-diabetic drugs. Resveratrol promoted utilization of insulin and overcame insulin resistance, believed to be responsible for most cases of adult-onset diabetes. Like the Harvard study, resveratrol also inhibited the buildup of fat in the liver of mice. In another anti-aging study, resveratrol study of 123 Finnish adults, it was found that those with variations in the enzyme had faster metabolism and burned energy more efficiently. Many studies have shown that when primates are placed on high nutritious but calorie restricted diets, the same genes and enzymes are activated, leading to a dramatic increase in health and life span.

Resveratrol is a powerful agent in both prevention and treatment of many factors associated with decreases in our longevity and health. Resveratrol helps fight heart disease through its strong antioxidant activity, by increasing nitric oxide to relax blood vessels, and by reducing abnormal blood clotting and blockages. Resveratrol has shown it can inhibit both the development and growth of cancer cells, as well as kill existing cancer cells. Resveratrol has exhibited positive effects in the treatment of estrogen related cancers like breast and prostate cancer. It also helps block the spread of breast, pancreatic, and kidney cancer to the bone.

The human life can be extended with modern technology, good nutrition and exercise as any anti-aging expert will acknowledge. If we get a full understanding of the facts, we can understand how we can extend the human life span to 120 or even, as some scientists speculate, to even greater ages. Many anti-aging researchers that is more than possible. Resveratrol is a powerful agent in both prevention and treatment of many factors associated with decreases in our longevity and health.

Resveratrol helps fight heart disease through its strong antioxidant activity, by increasing nitric oxide to relax blood vessels, and by reducing abnormal blood clotting and blockages. Researchers at Harvard Medical School and the National Institutes on Aging, led by David Sinclair PhD, reported that resveratrol, a red wine molecule, overcame the adverse effects of a high-fat diet in mice, prolonged their life over 30%, and more importantly, maintained quality of life. We can expect future antiaging studies and research to prove that it is equally effective in human longevity.

About the Author: Lee Roberts is a researcher and writer in nutrition and health related anti-aging developments. For more of the latest anti-aging articles and advice check out A Fountain Of Youth Org

Want An Effective Weight Loss Method? Try Running

Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine. For myself to keep fit and health, I do running every morning and I do my best to eat healthily. At times it might be quite challenging to pick ourselves up and go for the run; this is the time when we most need to get up of the comfortable couch. And yes, one thing never failed, I always feel great after the run!

How to Lose Weight Running

Do you need to lose weight and get in shape? Well, running is one of the most ideal activities for that purpose. First of all, it is very hard to get that kind of intense workout doing things such as running or low impact aerobics. In many ways, running is an ideal activity because even if you can get a good workout doing something else, it is a lot easier to keep on creating a challenging workout with running.

Set Weight Loss Goals

Before you set out to create a running plan for weight loss, the first thing you should do is decide what you want to accomplish. Determine how much weight you want to lose and how quickly you want to lose it. This will affect how often you will run and how long each running session will be. The faster, further, and longer you go, the more weight you will lose.

Create a Weight Loss Plan

The next thing to do is to create a running weight loss plan based on your goals. The plan should include your route, how long the route will take, and how long you want to stick with that particular route. If you want to run three or four times a week, a course of around three or four miles should be adequate.

Eat for Weight Loss

You may realize that no that you are running more, your appetite has increased. That is your body’s way of telling you that you need more nutrients in your diet. It is important to eat when you get hungry, otherwise it will harm your metabolism. The important thing to remember is to make good food choices and to not overeat. As long as you are eating a little less than what you need, it will not hurt your metabolism. In fact, you will begin to lose weight because your body will use your extra fat as fuel.

Keep it Challenging

One thing about running is that it is very easy to adapt to your current plan. That is why it is important to keep the workout challenging. One way to do this is to change your route after a few weeks by either lengthening it or choosing something else. Another good way to make your running challenging is to do intervals. Interval training is when you alternate running fast with jogging. You can increase the fast running intervals each time you feel your body begin to adapt.

It is not only possible to lose weight running, but running makes it much easier. Just remember to keep your route challenging and to make sure you eat nutritiously.

About the Author: Gray Rollins writes for TheRunnersGuide.com. Learn more about how to lose weight by running and the benefits of running by visiting us.

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7 Public Speaking Survival Tips

I used to be terrified of public speaking - now it's natural and fun.

Dry mouth, fast heart, sweaty palms, blank mind - yeah I've been there! It's easy to fear public speaking. But I was never just content with overcoming fear. I wanted to be a great speaker. What I needed was a way of calming down and applying simple techniques and strategies to talk like a pro.

When I'd learned to relax (more of that later) I learned and applied the following four steps.

1. Reassure your audience - they need to know you know your stuff and you are human!
2. Hook them by being interesting and relevant. Tell them why what you are saying is relevant to them.
3. Inspire them by giving them information and ways of seeing that are new and applicable.
4. Leave them on a high by telling a story that encapsulates your central message.

How do you become confident enough to apply the four steps?

Here's some tips some of which are practical some of which are to do with the way you think about your public presentations and also how you can start to change the way you feel about them.

Tip One

Breath your way to calm. When you breath out you relax that's why people sigh when they're stressed.

Breathing in without breathing out causes hyperventilation and worsens anxiety. Just before your speech take five minutes breathing in to the count of seven and out to the count of eleven (quick count-not seconds!). On the out breath hold it a second before breathing in again. This will produce quick and lasting calm. Remember extending the out breath calms you down.

Tip Two

You have a responsibility as the presenter but relax you don't carry all the responsibility. Presenting is a team effort. Audiences are responsible for politeness, extending their attention and attempting to learn. It's not all you - it's a meeting of two halves. Never mind how they judge you. How do you judge them?

Tip Three

Use metaphor and stories. We all experience life metaphorically. The most technical logical person spends at least two hours a night dreaming! Talk detail if necessary but present patterns with metaphors. Folk from 4 to 104 love stories. Use em.

Tip four

Captivate attention by using words that evoke all the senses. Describe how things look, sound, feel, smell and taste. Paint pictures and sensations in their minds with your words.

Tip Five

Vary your voice tonality and speed of delivery. Keep them alert and engaged. Convey energy when need be and slow down when you need to 'draw them in close.' You are the conductor to their orchestra. And pepper your talk with humour. Your willingness to be funny shows personal confidence and confidence is contagious.

Tip Six

Tell them what they are going to get. What they are currently getting and then what they have got from you. Sell your sizzle!

Tip Seven

Watch and learn from other great speakers until compelling, relaxed speaking is a part of you.

Rehearse positively. You need to rehearse how your going to feel as well as what you are going to present. Don't think about your forthcoming presentation whilst feeling nervous as this creates an instinctive association between fear and presenting. This natural negative self-hypnosis is very common with nervous speakers.

Hypnotically rehearse your speech whilst feeling relaxed. This produces the right 'blueprint' in your mind. In fact when you do this enough times it actually becomes hard to be nervous!

All great speakers know how to use great self-hypnotic rehearsal. Hypnosis changes attitudes and can bring emotion under control. I used hypnosis, to change my instincts around public speaking. Now I just can't get nervous whether it's 50 or 500 people. The world needs great communicators. Go for it!

Cure your fear of public speaking at HypnosisDownloads.com

Article by Mark Tyrrell of Hypnosis Downloads.com.

Why It's Important To Follow A Healthy Diet When Pregnant

Pregnancy is one of the most physically enduring times in our lives, and it is more important than ever to consume a healthy balanced diet. By ensuring a steady supply of vitamins and minerals, as well as balancing your calorie consumption appropriately between carbohydrates, proteins and fats, you should be able to maintain a healthy diet through pregnancy for a healthy mom, and a healthy baby.

The first part of a balanced diet is to consume fruit and vegetables. Fruits are packed with vitamins, which are essential for healthy growth and development. By consuming a variety of different fruits, you can explore your tastes, as well as cover all the bases as far as vitamins are concerned. With vitamins playing such a major role in the healthy function of our bodies, it is imperative you ensure a suitable intake during pregnancy. Additionally, fruits and vegetables provide healthy calories, and are very filling as part of any meal, or for a snack in between.

Another vital element for healthy living during pregnancy is water. Water is an essential component of any healthy diet, and is essential in ensuring you are fully hydrated wherever possible. This can be invaluable in ensuring the effective distribution of nutrients, and will keep your body running smoothly. Combine your water consumption with green tea which has amazing anti-aging properties, as well as detoxifying agents to help cleanse your body. This will ensure your body is kept in tip top shape throughout your nine months.

Also, pregnant women need to drastically increase their consumption of folic acid. Folic acid is a nutrient present in many grains and breakfast cereals, and is essential for promoting healthy growth in babies. By increasing your consumption of folic acid and related products, you can help give your baby the essential elements needed to sustain its growth over the longer term.

Finally, make sure you cut out any alcohol and cigarette smoke. This is highly detrimental to your health, and indeed the healthy of your baby, causing a range of problems in later life. It is imperative that you ditch the drink, and kick the cigarettes to avoid permanently damaging your baby.

Eating healthily during pregnancy is clearly important for the health of your baby, but overall there is no secret formula. By living a healthy lifestyle as you normally would, you can guarantee that your baby is going to be given the best chance health-wise.

About the Author: Gray Rollins writes for OnYourPregnancy.com. Learn about Pregnancy Without Pounds.

Fight Your Risk Of Heart Disease - Take Your Fish Oil by Sam Morovy

It all started in about the late 1970’s, several studies that investigated certain aspects of a population revealed that the Inuit people, a people whose diet consisted largely of fish, had a much lower incidence of heart attack.

For reasons that are not specifically known, fish oil, according to the author of one study titled “From Inuit to implementation: omega-3 fatty acids come of age,” “seems to be able to stabilize myocardial membranes electrically, resulting in reduced susceptibility to ventricular dysrhythmias, thereby reducing the risk of sudden death.” So, the omega-3’s from fish oil stabilize the electrical impulses that cause the heart to beat and this reduces the risk of a heart attack. Another theory suggests that fish oils help to navigate cholesterol levels to healthier levels therefore causing an indirect effect on the implications of heart disease. Even more, another theory says that fish oils have an antithrombotic effect, which means that they cause less blood clots to form within the body – along the same lines as this, it is known that fish oil does have anti-inflammatory effects.

In the most famous study, known as the GISSI, 11,324 patients that had survived a recent heart attack less than 3 months ago were monitored and shown to have, after 3.5 years, a 45% decrease in risk of sudden death due to cardiac reasons and a reduction of 20% in all-cause death in the group that was assigned an omega-3 supplement of 850 mg per day. In fact, the authors of this study noted that the effect of omega-3s became evident at the 4 month mark.

In another study, by Harper CR and Jacobson TA at the Emory University of Medicine, the authors investigated six trials/studies that tested the effects fish oil. The authors found that the supplementation of fish oil caused a statistically significant reduction in the amount of heart attacks that occurred that were fatal. However, they also found that the number of nonfatal heart attacks was not statistically significantly reduced. The study was titled “Usefulness of omega-3 fatty acids and the prevention of coronary heart disease.”

So, exercise, eat right, and take your fish oils and you’re heart will love you in addition to allowing you to live longer. Although many people may simply “not worry about the long run” as to how their life goes – not only can fish oil increase your lifespan – it can also increase the quality of your life – more on that in another article.

About the Author: If you would like to learn even more about fish oil and how much it can benefit your mood, protection against various diseases, and which famous celebrity believes in it very strongly, check out this website about fish oil

Fast Fat Loss, And Other Weight Control Secrets by Rob Redding

Some natural fat loss and weight control secrets that you can start using today. The good thing is, I think it is pretty easy to follow what the author shared in this article.

Weight loss programs abound. But have you noticed? It seems that, while more and more diet programs are popping up, the general population continues to get fatter!

This is crazy. But if you've ever tried to lose weight this phenomenon is actually quite easy to understand. Most people see that they have a fat problem, and they begin to tackle it, but then they give up when the going suddenly gets too tough. For example, perhaps they skip lunch to lose weight, and then drink multiple cups of coffee to get them through the day. But discouragement sets in when they come home, read a health book, and discover that coffee and caffeine drinks are major causes of cellulite! What's a person to do? (You actually need to increase, not decrease your intake of essential fatty acids if you have cellulite.)

Are you depressed already? I hope not. But it's the same with ab machines: After you exercise with them, your more muscled abs will probably still be covered with fat! Are you bothered with crazy diets? Diets are a health risk! And by the way, low carb diets burn sugar, NOT fat.

Have you tried impossible mind control goals? What about expensive weight loss clinics?

Dieting by eating less food seems logical, but I believe there are other things you can do that can be even more effective! For example:

TRY THIS

Did you know that your body has a daily, or circadian rhythm that turns most of the food you eat in the morning into energy? Whereas most of the food you eat in the evening, your body turns into fat! Therefore, to lose weight you should eat large main meals for breakfast and very light meals, or only fruit in the evening! This is the opposite to what most of the world is doing, but if you try this you will find that you will probably lose about 4 lb a week without changing the amount of food you eat overall. Why not go ahead and prove this for yourself?

WILL EXERCISE HELP?

Here's another secret. To increase you metabolic burn rate you need to do some type of non-stop aerobic exercise for 35 to 45 minutes at least every second day. Brisk walking is the easiest to do. I've been told Latin dancing is the best! If you do UNDER half an hour, or take rests, you are wasting your time as it won't increase your burn rate! Of course, be careful not to overdo it. Runners and athletes sometimes drop dead in their prime! Do you know why? Could it be that they don’t replace the important minerals their body needs in time? They use them up and sweat them out, and so the vital minerals their body needs are gone! They die from lack of what their body just used up! On the other side of the coin, please don’t be so idle that you become a vegetable. All life is energy and vibration and movement.

Here are a few other things you can try:

WARM WATER

You can tell if you don’t drink enough water - if you have dry skin. Water decreases food cravings and water also increases your metabolic rate. First thing in the morning if you drink three glasses of warm water, (warm is important) you should soon feel the need to go to the toilet. If you don’t like plain water, include lemon juice. Do this regularly, and over time your digestive system should improve wonderfully. Is this too hard to do? I think this is a dreary thing to do - I personally prefer other fat loss methods! But it's still good advice!

JUICE

According to all evidence the health results of juice fasting are much better than water fasting. Although fasting in any form can be difficult, it's often claimed that fasting can work real health miracles. Obviously you would want to get a LOT more advice than I’ve included in this short report before you commit to this method, but I will add the following tip that I’ve used successfully in the past. A good recipe for a week long cleansing fast consists of a cup of hot or warm water, mixed with plenty of lemon juice, a little honey to suit your taste, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cayenne pepper also speeds up your metabolism (and by the way, when packed into a wound it will stop the blood flow instantly!). In addition take a tablespoon full of real Canadian maple syrup for sustained energy whenever you feel the need - yum, I can never take just one spoonful, as I find it irresistible! (Make sure you buy genuine maple syrup only, not the imitation stuff).

TWO MORE THINGS:

(1) It almost sounds corny to say it, but try eating an apple every day. Perhaps as a replacement evening meal. (Providing you've already had a nice big breakfast in the morning, and a good lunch so you're not still hungry in the evening.) Apples are really good for you in numerous ways. They also tend to fill you up without adding fat!

(2) Chew all food till it becomes a liquid in your mouth. I know this is hard to do if you're hungry, but it helps your digestion no end.

About the Author: Be sure to visit http://www.sizeslender.com for a short list of the BEST fat loss programs on the Internet.

Cinnamon And Diabetes by Robert Miller

Recently, a surprising link was established between using cinnamon and the prevention of some diabetes symptoms. It has commonly been known that cinnamon helps with energy. Now it would seem that cinnamon can be a low cost addition to help strengthen a diabetes regimen. Funded by the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation, or DAREF, Dr. Richard Anderson performed a study at the United States Department of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research Center to examine possible useful effects of cinnamon in diabetes. Mr. Anderson was able to actually isolate the compound in cinnamon that is responsible for some of the positive aspects of cinnamon for diabetics.

The compound which feature specific Type-A polymers, was found to effectively lower blood sugar in diabetics. Additionally, Type-A polymers were discovered to decrease a patient’s total cholesterol by up to 26 percent. Low density lipoproteins, commonly known as the bad cholesterol, were lowered 10 to 24 percent by the intake of the polymers, while triglycerides were decreased by 23 to 30 percent.

This research is of the utmost importance to diabetics. Even more important may be the effects that this compound can have on the millions of people who have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. It can help to delay the diabetes' onset, and can a person time to learn about the condition and how to keep it from significantly affecting your health.

The cinnamon's polymers were found to help diabetics in two specific ways. First, the compound was found to reduce the effects of enzymes that may be responsible for insulin resistance. This is of utmost importance for those with Type II diabetes as often their condition is caused by an insulin resistance problem. Second, when taking the compound, patients were found to have an increased insulin sensitivity, which helps more effectively distribute insulin. The polymers that were extracted from this study are now clinically available, and have been patented under the name Cinnulin PF. This particular water-soluble extract is the only approved compound of this type.

There are many different supplements available that contain the Cinnulin PF compound. It is necessary to note that you absolutely SHOULD NOT consume large amounts of cinnamon to try to get these effects. In high doses, cinnamon contains a fat soluble component that has been found to be toxic. If you are unable to purchase one of the Cinnulin PF-containing supplements, a quarter to a full teaspoon of cinnamon can be taken daily to aid your health. One way to aid in ingesting cinnamon is to add it to drinks such as milkshakes or tea. And while cinnamon is one of the main ingredients in apple pie, the risks of eating it to get your daily cinnamon outweigh the benefits as it is also rich in fat and sugar.

About the Author: Robert Miller is an author for several well-known online magazines, on wellness and health and tips on health topics.

Weight Affects Self Esteem, Health And Contributes To Discrimination by Susan Megge

A good article with a few good points from the author. I agree with the author that getting in good shape should not be for others; getting in shape should be for the personal, emotional and physical well-being of the person herself/himself. The author also brought out an interesting perspective; instead of saying, "I'm on diet", why not say, "I want to be thinner and will take steps that are necessary to reach that goal?" Remember that getting in shape is for the good of yourself and not for anyone. Wishing you good health.

The recent Rosie vs. Donald “War of Words” has people across the nation taking sides. Donald’s harsh words regarding Rosie’s weight have many people outraged – and rightfully so. Unfortunately, it seems as though discriminating against those women who are considered “fat” has become the norm and is quite often acceptable in many circles. While I’m not overweight myself, someone with whom I’m very close is. As a matter of fact, she’s my sister – and probably one of the most generous, kind and helpful people I’m lucky enough to know (probably very much like Rosie).

It hurts me a great deal to think that people may be snickering behind my sister’s back when they can’t begin to imagine what a beautiful person she is inside. Should my sister lose weight just to become a pleasant sight to others? Should Rosie get in shape to prove she’s more beautiful than Donald (and she is!)? Absolutely not. It’s never – and I do mean never – a good idea to make changes just to please other people. Should overweight individuals make lifestyle alterations to contribute to their own personal, emotional and physical well-being? Well, I think so.

In recent weeks my sister has joined me at the gym and I couldn’t be happier or more proud. Not only is she taking steps to become a healthier person, but she’s also ensuring that I’m going to have my sister around for a good long time. You see, discrimination is only a fraction of the problems overweight and obese individuals face, and probably the least of which should contribute to the motivation to lose weight.

So many health conditions are a direct result of being overweight. Those women whose weight is more than that which is recommended face an increased risk of developing heart disease (the number one killer of middle-aged women), diabetes and even some forms of cancer. In addition to the risk of more serious health conditions, women who are overweight face other physical obstacles, as well. For instance, simply standing up from a sitting position can seem as though it’s too much work. Heavier women also have a difficult time walking for any length of time because they tend to become “winded” and too much weight on their feet can contribute to pain and swelling.

Women who are overweight are also quite self-conscious of their weight and may dread even attempting to find an outfit to wear for a special occasion. Let’s face it – it’s just not fun being the “fat chick” but how can you realistically reach your ideal weight without going back to old eating habits that are so very enticing? I know there’s a good possibility you’ve heard this before, but I need to stress that dieting to lose weight may work and be the answer for weight loss, but sticking to a diet proves quite difficult for many people. For this reason, avoid telling yourself that you’re on a diet. Rather, convince yourself that you want to be thinner and will take steps that are necessary to reach that goal. This may mean that you’ll eat healthier and reduce the size of your portions, but it’s important to remember that you don’t need to starve or even deprive yourself of the foods you really love.

Believe it or not, I spend 7-10 days of every month consuming many foods that are high in fat, calories and carbohydrates. Even though I’m approaching menopause, I’m still experiencing symptoms associated with P.M.S., which include cravings for double cheeseburgers, chocolate and French fries loaded with ketchup. Do I deprive myself of these foods? I’d like to say that I do, but to be honest, no, I don’t deprive myself when the craving hits. Well then, how is it that I remain in a size 4? I exercise regularly, and include weight training in my routine so that I build the muscles necessary to burn all of those nasty calories I consume during my “Miss Piggy” week.

So, you see, I understand food cravings and find myself giving into my temptations, but this doesn’t mean I need to be heavy just because I enjoy bad foods during certain periods of each month. Prior to regularly exercising, yes, I most definitely gained weight as a result of bad food decisions, but if you’re determined enough, you can eliminate your extra weight and still enjoy occasional treats. This will lead to a healthy, happy and self-confident attitude. But remember, do it for you and don’t be concerned what others are saying because the “Donalds” of the world simply don’t matter.

About the Author: Susan Megge is the founder of http://www.40isbeautiful.com, a website designed to assist women as they approach the years leading to menopause. Susan, a health and fitness expert started experiencing symptoms of menopause several years ago and researched various avenues to deal with these symptoms naturally. This led to her discovery that exercise and fitness play a crucial role in making getting older a very manageable and even wonderful time in a woman's life. Susan Megge is the author of "Being Beautiful Beyond 40," a book dedicated to helping women to be inspired, confident and beautiful as they approach menopause.

Lose Weight - Let Go Of The Excuses And Get The Right Information To Get Started

By John Purfield

If you’re a parent and conscious about your weight, the worse thing in the world is when your own kids think you’re fat. When my kids called me fat I was hurt. However, I knew that it was true. I also wondered what type of example I am setting for them.

While it’s polite to say that there is nothing wrong with being overweight and “accept who you are”, I find there is some lack of accountability with that approach. Especially since there are many health risks associated with being overweight.

Also, how can being overweight not take a poke at your self confidence? If being overweight is discouraging, the good news is we have control to drop the weight and get in shape.

First thing we have to do is put aside all the mental stuff as to why we can’t lose weight. Let go of the excuses and make the decision to break the cycle. There are many options available for people who want to lose weight and get in shape. However, the best option is to start working out. Here are some tips to help you out.

Recognize is there is a lot of information out there to help you lose weight and get in shape. Sometimes there is too much information. You need to know the right information. While everyone has their own custom plan with a tag line included, we run into information overload and wind up going in many different directions.

One thing to do is prioritize the information you want to read and also make the decision if it fits into your current plan. Remember, when you prioritize the information you are not dismissing it right away. However, you may find it useful for future workouts.

Keep in mind that its common knowledge that the way you lose weight and get in shape is to eat right and exercise. You might think that it's impossible, since there are those who have been doing a lot of exercises and dieting for many years and yet they don’t get results. However, the secret is that we need to actually work at it.

You don’t have to work hard at it to the point where it's not enjoyable. However, you just need to know you have to put in some hard work at some point in the day to get somewhere.

These are just some suggestions to help you sift through all the information and achieve the ultimate weight loss that you want to accomplish. So if you're planning to lose weight, start by giving yourself permission to work hard at it. Keep it simple, know you have to work hard and find the right foods to eat. You’ll be successful.

About the Author: For a great book filled with exercise routines to keep you active for a long time, check out our review of Turbulence Training at http://www.addfitness.com/turbulence-training.htm.

How To Loose Weight The Safe Way By Steve Savo

A good article. True enough, losing weight and keeping that ideal weight can be a long process. However, more often than not, most people are always looking for that quick fix; that secret formula that guarantees to help you lose your weight fast. In the process of losing weight, we need a lot of patience and discipline. Support from family and friends can also be of great help too. Remember, there is no short cut to any place worth going. Wishing good health to you.

When a person embarks on a weight loss program, there is typically an impatience for the desired results to become visible sooner rather than later. This leads many to dabble in fad diets and weight loss programs that may “guarantee” quick results, but which may not be the appropriate in regards to safe weight loss. An individual making the decision to lose weight must take the time to educate himself on the healthiest and safest methods of doing so.

Unfortunately the most safe weight loss occurs slowly and steadily rather than quickly, and involves certain lifestyle modifications that can continue through the weight loss process into that of proper weight maintenance. The good news is that safe weight loss can also contribute to a healthier lifestyle that will help an individual feel better as well as look better, both in the short and long run.

Where do I start?

The first step to losing weight is a good diet plan. A good diet will include the recommended daily allowance of vitamins, minerals and proteins, while reducing the amount of calories. Generally, women should look for a diet of about 1000-1200 calories each day, and men should choose a diet that is between 1200 and 1600 calories. Before you write these guidelines in stone however, make sure to check with your doctor so that you can find the best diet regimen for you.

The most important thing is that you are trying to get a good steady weight loss; your diet plan should see results in the loss of about a pound per week after the first couple of weeks. The reason for more rapid loss at the beginning is that much more fluid is lost during the initial calorie reduction.

The most impotent thing in a weight loss program is a good exercise routine. This plan should start slowly at first, and again, only under a doctor’s supervision. It is a good idea to combine aerobic and strength training for maximum benefit. Exercise is the only safe method of boosting metabolism, which will help your body burn calories more effectively. Other benefits of exercise can include increased energy and decreased depression. It is a program that should be incorporated into your lifestyle long after the weight loss goal is achieved.

Reading the food primed will show how to loose weight as fast as you safely can. Other guidelines that may sound obvious but are still worth mentioning are increasing the number of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Fruit, for instance, can be especially helpful since it is a good source of fiber and can satisfy a chronic sweet tooth. You should also eat less junk food and drink less soda, and finally, watch your portion size to make sure that you are not inadvertently overeating even healthy food choices.

Safe weight loss can be a long process, but the advantage to this approach is that you will not only lose weight, but will you will also stand a greater chance of keeping the weight off and you enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

About the Author: If you are looking for a weight loss product you should stop by the best weight loss review site.

Everything You Need To Know About Healthy Looking Hair By Gabriela Green

Do you seek glowing, shiny and smooth textured hair like all of us, without spending a fortune on hair treatments and products? We can help you by giving you our favorite home made treatment and moisture mask recipes. Use them at home when you feel comfortable, at your own free time.

But first a few facts, I don't want to "lecture" you about life style but the most important tip for healthy looking, strong hair is having a balanced nutrition. Like they say, everything starts from inside. When you hair looks dry, dull or breaks, probably your body is missing some essential vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C, vitamin B-12, B-5, B-6 and Fe, Zn and Selenium. Last but not least is drinking enough water that will provide natural moisture to your hair.

So you eat a balanced diet, drink enough water and still, when you are facing the mirror you wish your hair looked healthier and shinier. Sometimes having the perfect life style is not enough since we are affected by other parameters surrounding us like weather or simply a bad coloring experience. Your hair and scalp feel the change of season; the cold wind, dry air and indoor heat cause hair breakage and static electricity make it look spunky and hard to style.

In order to increase your hair's ability to attract and retain moisture, here is our secret home made super moisturizing mask recipe...

Honey and olive oil based recipe:

1. Mix half a cup of honey with a quarter cup of olive oil.

2. Pour the mixture into a glass clean container, where you can keep sealed until you are ready to use it.

3. Before the treatment wash your hair with water only (no shampoo needed), take only two table spoons of the mixture and gently massage your hair with your fingers.

4. If your hair is extremely dry then double the suggested quantity.

5. Once the mask has been applied, wrap your hair with a bathing hat or simply with kitchen wrapping nylon and leave it for 30 minutes.

6. After 30 minutes wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner and dry it as usual.

Have fried your hair using a curling iron or overdosed it with bleaching and coloring while trying to reach that elusive perfect blonde?

Don't panic, it is going to be over soon, try this secret recipe and you will be surprised by the visible change to your hair. If your hair isn't in a great shape, use it once a week until you feel your hair's health was restored, to maintain your hair's health use it once a month as the perfect hair care treatment, and see the results for yourself!

Be well.

About the Author: Gabriela is the co-editor of the http://www.hairstylecity.com magazine. HairstyleCITY is packed with great step-by-step DIY guides that will help you achieve great looking hair. Interested in a celebrity hairstyle? No problem! HairstyleCITY offers a wide selection of celebrity hair style guides.

For more great home made and natural healthy hair marecipespies and tips make sure to visit http://www.hairstylecity.com/HairCare/HomeMadeHairMasks.aspx.

Positive Aspects Of Menopause? By Kathryn Whittaker

Although vaginal dryness and other unpleasant symptoms are often part and parcel to menopause, and is not something a woman looks forward to, did you ever stop to think that maybe menopause isn’t such a bad thing?

Menopause is part of every woman’s natural aging process. It is the time when the ovaries produce lower levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. Menopause is the end of menstruation and the end of a woman’s child bearing years. It is unavoidable and is something every woman will have to deal with. Thus, instead of dreading something you can’t change; why not look at menopause in a positive way.

Here are some ways you can positively deal with menopause:

So long reproduction - Since menopause shuts down your reproductive cycle, this means you are now menses free. Rejoice! You no longer have to worry about being surprised by an irregular pesky period, or live by the rules of a 28 day calendar. You can travel and swim any time of the year without having to think twice about “that time of the month”.

In addition, for many endometriosis sufferers, their symptoms tend to subside or disappear entirely. Although menopause does not cure the disease, it appears to be a fantastic form of treatment due to the fact that estrogen levels drop. Even though it is not known what causes endometriosis, it is evident that estrogen plays an important role in the manifestation of the disease.

Take control of your symptoms – Are you suffering from hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, anxiety, depression, fatigue, vaginal dryness, sore or stiff joints, weight gain, or any of the other symptoms caused by menopause? If you are, have you done anything about the way you feel? There are many treatments available to help you cope with the symptoms you are experiencing. Don’t be afraid to research menopausal symptoms, talk to friends for coping advice- and above all - make sure you talk to your doctor before starting any treatment.

Take care of yourself – Did you know that a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise and relaxation techniques, can actually improve menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, pain, insomnia and PMS? In addition, a healthy lifestyle will make you feel better about yourself because it reduces stress, and encourages positive thinking and creativity. Therefore, you need to take time out of each day to focus on your own wellbeing. Treat yourself to a warm bath, a cup of green tea and a good book.

Find support – There are millions of women all over the world who are experiencing the same change of life as you. Why go it alone when you likely know someone who is perimenopausal, menopausal or postmenopausal. Your mother, aunt, sister(s), in-laws, friends, co-worker, or neighbor(s) are all women you should be turning to when menopause is getting you down.

Change your attitude - You need to get on with your life, and shouldn’t use menopause as an excuse to slow you down. Your body is changing, why not change the way you think with it. You’ll never be who you once were, and you can’t predict the future. All you have left, and all that matters is your present. Transforming the way you perceive yourself and the world around you with a positive attitude, will positively impact the way your body deals with menopause.

Getting older isn’t something you should dread. It’s the time when you truly become wise, know what it means to be a woman, can be proud of your life and enjoy it to the fullest.

About the Author: Kathryn Whittaker has an interest in Menopause. For further information on Menopause please Click Here!

Support To Stop Smoking By Jennifer Taylor

Everyone knows that smoking is a terrible habit. Aside from the obvious health risks, smoking makes your teeth yellow, makes your clothes stink, and it turns you into a social outcast. If you've already made the decision to stop smoking, good for you! Now it's time to take the next step and establish a support system to help you maintain your smoke-free lifestyle.

People who stop smoking by way of techniques like hypnotherapy often think that they've kicked the habit for good. It's important to know that even the most proven stop smoking programs aren't guaranteed to last. You need to have help you can turn to on a daily basis.

It's time to assemble your personal stop smoking support group. Establishing this group is easy. You already have a network of friends and family members who are anxious for you to quit. The help you need is waiting for you; and best of all, this is a free stop smoking resource!

Anyone who has tried to quit knows that one person can't do it alone. You need help to stop smoking and to stay smoke-free, and the best help you can have isn't sold in any form.

Believing that you are harming yourself, and exposing your loved ones to the dangers of second-hand smoke, is enough to make you want to quit. If those who care about you are ready to help you through the process, you may find that it's easier to make it happen. Read on to learn how the support of friends can really help, and how to make your group as helpful as possible.

Seek the Naggers

Partners, coworkers, family and friends will often nag about smoking until the smoker is ready to scream. The problem with nagging, however, is that can backfire. The pressure causes the smoker to become more angry, nervous and anxious to be able to escape with another smoke. Quitting smoking is hard enough without incorporating the stress of arguments over the subject. Explain your concerns to all of the "naggers" in your group. Tell them that if they truly want to help, they should offer support and not sniping.

Be Responsible to Someone

Smoking cessation is more difficult when you try to sneak in a cigarette now and then without anyone knowing about it. By making yourself responsible to another person, you are going to have to actively lie about your smoking. It's one thing to sneak in a smoke, but quite another to tell an outright lie when someone you care about asks if you've had a cigarette. Make yourself responsible to one person, and make sure it's someone who will check up on you every day.

Hypnosis Support

The stop-smoking product or method that you chose to use isn't important. What matters is that you are becoming smoke-free. For this reason, it's important that the people in your group also support your methods. If you chose to use hypnosis, you may encounter people who question its effectiveness. Those who doubt that hypnosis treatments (or whatever method you choose) really work should be asked to keep their opinions to themselves. If you lose faith in the hypnosis process because you hear negative comments, it's only going to serve to make the process less effective.

Take Advice With Caution

As soon as you announce that you're quitting, you'll be bombarded with advice from other smokers and non-smokers on how to kick the habit.

Remember that not every system is effective for every smoker, and what works for some may not be best for you. Listen to the advice and show your friends that you appreciate their input, but don't discard your own common sense. You are the best judge of what you can or cannot accomplish.

Your friends and family will be thrilled that you've made the decision to stop smoking. Remind them that your value their patience and support, and will need to rely on their help and encouragement along the way. They'll be happy to lend a hand.

About the Author: Jennifer Taylor is an author for several web sites, on family tips and home help topics.

Finding A Hair Loss Remedy By Michelle Bery

Hair loss can be devastating no matter what your age or gender. For those who suffer from hair loss, not much will stop them from seeking out a hair loss remedy. While there has yet to be found an ultimate cure for hair loss, there are certain things that can help combat the effects.

First and foremost, if you are experiencing hair loss then it is imperative that you see a doctor to ensure that there are no hormonal deficiencies at work. A simple blood test should be enough to ascertain if your hormone levels are to blame for your hair loss. If this is the case, there are certain hormone treatments that have proven successful as a hair loss remedy.

Diet can also be a significant component in hair loss. If you are currently eating a poor diet and experiencing hair loss, then experiment with a change in your eating habits. Limit those foods that contain high levels of salt, preservatives, and fat. Studies have shown that a diet high in protein has been successful as a natural hair loss remedy. Try increasing your protein intake with green, leafy vegetables, eggs, soy, and other protein rich foods.

Others have had success with consistent scalp massage as a hair loss remedy. A five minute scalp massage several times a week will go a long way to stimulating hair follicles. There are a number of oils that you can use for scalp massage including almond, coconut, and castor oils.

Depending on the culture, there are many different oil combinations that seem to have had success as a hair loss remedy. The Internet is a wonderful resource for finding some of these hair loss remedy “recipes.” You can also find an online community where you can check in with people who have tried several options. They will be able to tell you what their experience was; just keep in mind that not every person reacts the same to each hair loss remedy. Success is on an individual basis and depends largely on the particular person’s body chemistry.

Hair loss can be frustrating and upsetting. But it doesn’t have to run your life. Experiment one at a time with each particular hair loss remedy. You may find that you’re not far away from stopping hair loss in its tracks.

About the Author: For easy to understand, in depth information about hairloss visit our ezGuide 2 Hairloss.

Acupressure Or Acupuncture - Fingers Or Needles By Brian Winkels

An interesting article about Acupuncture and Acupressure. Personally I like Acupressure as there is no needles involved and it is something which I can do it on my own as what is suggested by the author. Acupuncture goes down directly to the exact Acupuncture point and thus needs to be practiced only by a skilled professional whereas Acupressure requires less precision. However, a word of caution, before you try it out on your own, seek professional help first as Acupressure may not be suitable in certain situations and illnesses.

Acupressure and acupuncture are not one in same techniques. They differ slightly because acupuncture makes use of thin needles in approaching health concerns while acupressure never breaks the skin. On the other hand, they do a have a few things in common. For instance, both are centered on touching meridians which carry energy or chi along those meridians right through an individuals' body.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clearly states that illness occurs due to the blockage of chi in any of fourteen different meridians. Acupressure and acupuncture both advocate the free flow of energy without obstructions. Both methods are used to treat arthritis, allergies, migraine headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, nausea and anxieties.

Because acupuncture uses very thin, long needles to puncture the skin it should be performed by an experienced practitioner who is skilled in traditional Chinese medicine. Acupressure is much less technical; it can therefore be learned from a book and may even be; in some instances, performed on oneself. Somewhat surprisingly, acupressure was practiced long before acupuncture became known.

In addition, since acupuncture requires the skilled use of a tool (needles) it requires much greater accuracy in order to bring quick relief whereas acupressure is less precise since the only tool is the practitioners finger. Due to the release of toxins or through realignment of muscle groups, in some instances acupuncture can result in some short term, minor side effects.

Acupressure and acupuncture thus have different effects on the patient with acupressure having fewer side effects. This may be somewhat akin to deep tissue massages where there is also less chance of unforeseen side effects to the patient.

Acupressure and acupuncture are known as Zhen Jiu and Zhi Ya respectively. They are probably the best known of all traditional Chinese methods used in treating health imbalances. Acupuncture is now a very popular alternative therapy for arthritis pain relief and acupressure makes use of the same points while using the fingers to manipulate the meridian points.

By pressing down firmly with the thumb or finger on the groove that lies between the two large tendons running from the base of the palm up to the elbow, acupressure is often used to provide relief for those who are suffering from nausea. Acupuncture can also achieve the same results through the use of needles. Both methods have a long history of success and neither is better than the other, it's simply a matter of opinion as to which method is best.

About the Author: Visit chinese herbs or chinese herbal medicine for more info on acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weight Loss Surgery

By Antoinette Boulay

Obese people looking to lose a considerable amount of weight, often turn to weight loss surgery. While weight loss surgery is an effective means of losing weight, it can be a hard decision for some to make. In the past, there have been many stories about weight loss surgery patients that have had a difficult time recovering. Today, there is newer technology that makes these procedures easier and safer. Still, many people have questions about weight loss surgery.

If you are considering weight loss surgery, it is important that you talk to you doctor about which kind of surgery is right for you. Also, make sure that all questions are asked before deciding on the surgery. There are different types of weight loss surgeries and each one carries a unique set of risks and complications. Here are some common questions people ask about weight loss surgery.

How much weight will I lose after the surgery? This often depends on which surgery you have and how closely you follow the guidelines. In general, most patients will lose two to three pounds each week for the first year. One pound a week is more realistic. After the first year, weight loss will drop and the amount of weight lost will be gradual. Most patients can expect to lose around 36 percent of their excess body weight in the first year following surgery.

How long will it take to recovery from surgery? This also depends on what kind of weight loss surgery you have. Laparoscopic patients have a much shorter recovery time than those who have an open procedure. Most patients stay in the hospital for at least 24 hours after surgery. It takes most patients one to six weeks to resume daily activities and exercise.

Will I be sick after the surgery? With all weight loss surgeries, the goal is to limit food intake. Getting used to the fewer calories can lead to dizziness and headaches. For those who often feel nauseated after eating, this can mean that the food is not being chewed well enough or that the wrong foods are being eaten. It is important to control the nausea because vomiting can lead to serious problems.

Will I need plastic surgery for the surplus skin when I have lost a lot of weight? Some patients do choose to have plastic surgery after weight loss surgery. If a patient has been overweight for a long time, the skin it stretched and will usually not “mold” itself into place. Plastic surgery is not a consideration until at least one year following surgery.

Can I become pregnant after the surgery? Yes, with some weight loss surgeries, but it usually recommended that you wait at least a year to eighteen months following surgery before becoming pregnant. With the Lap-Band, the band can be loosened during pregnancy to accommodate the increased need for more nutrition.

Will I suffer from constipation? Some patients do because there is less fiber in the diet. This is normal and if it becomes a problem, your doctor can recommend a mild laxative.

About the Author: Visit http://www.medopedia.com/weightloss-surgery/intestinal for information about adjustable gastric banding surgery.

Natural Relief For Hot Flashes

Menopause is a natural occurrence that happens to all women when they reach a certain age. Technically it is a stopping of a woman's period (or menses), hence the name. There are many symptoms of menopause, but none as obvious as the hot flashes that you experience.

Hot flashes can range from mild hot spells at night to constant dripping and sweating during the daytime. It starts suddenly, with a rapid heartbeat, intense feeling of heat on your face and upper body, and continues with possible headaches and nausea. It may only last a short time but there is no mistaking the feeling of a hot flash.

Hot flashes are caused by a hormonal imbalance and estrogen loss. The loss of estrogen causes the part of the brain that is responsible for your body temperature to think that it is too hot. Your body in turn tries to use the nervous system's chemical ability to relieve the heat by having your heart beat faster, and using the perspiration to relieve the body of the sudden warmth. It is essentially a way to cool you off even though the feeling you are having is that it is heating you up.

As many as 85% of women have reported having hot flashes. But only about 10% to 15% of women have severe enough hot flashes that they need to seek their doctors advice on how to handle them. Most women can just make simple lifestyle changes such as layering their clothing, changing their diet, and exercising on a regular basis.

If you do find that you need to turn to medication, or Hormone Replacement Therapy, check out all your options. You may only need Estrogen Therapy, or perhaps just a few natural solutions such as vitamins or Black Cohosh, which is proven to be a natural relief solution for hot flashes.

Relaxation and stress reduction techniques should be your first stop on the way to being hot flash free. Yoga and meditation are excellent ways to calm your body before and during a hot flash to make it seem more tolerable. During the day make sure to keep an ice cold glass of water nearby to cool you down during or before a hot flash. Another tip is to lower the temperature wherever you are. This is where the layering of clothes comes in - it helps with the many different temperatures you will go through in a day.

Just as the old saying goes, this too shall pass. Although it may take 2 to 5 years on average, it will end. Just try to make it as bearable as possible during this time and before you know it the symptoms of hot flashes will disappear naturally with time.

About The Author: Discover how YOU can relieve hot flashes and menopausal symptoms without HRT. Pick up your free special report "Coping with Hot Flashes the Natural Way" by clicking here: http://www.survivemenopause.com

Solve Sudoku

People work out at the gym, train at the track and jog every morning to keep their bodies in tip-top condition. But, what about their brains? Even though it's not a muscle, the brain can get sloppy if it doesn't get a regular workout. When brains aren't challenged and entertained, they get bored and lazy.

One way to keep your brain happy and alert is by taking up a hobby or, better yet, solving puzzles.

A puzzle is a problem-solving game that's meant to challenge your different mind strategies. Some puzzles are easy, some are quite difficult, however none sharpen your brain quite as well as logic and math puzzles.

One example of a fun brain-busting puzzle is "Number Place", more commonly known as Sudoku.

The purpose is to complete a nine by nine (9 x 9) grid from three by three (3 x 3) regions, by entering the numbers 1 to 9 in each cell of the grid. The tricky part is that no single digit can be repeated in the 9 x 9 grid.

At first glance, the Sudoku seems like a fun and easy way to entertain your brain. However, the game begins to twist the mind into deep thought, finding strategies and devising formulations to solve Sudoku.

There are three suggested ways to solve Sudoku: scanning, marking up and analysis.

Scanning is a method used to solve Sudoku wherein the process of elimination reigns. The player may choose either counting or cross-hatching when using this method. Cross-hatching requires a systematic course of action in which the player scans rows and columns in a particular region to determine where numbers can or cannot be repeated. Counting, on the other hand, requires the player to count numerals 1 to 9 in rows, columns, and regions to find the missing numeral.

The marking up method is used to solve Sudoku when all possibilities have been exhausted in the scanning stage. To mark, you'll use notations such as dots or subscript. Whenever possible, use notations you're comfortable with, such as lines, shapes or codes. It is also advised to assign which notations are used for candidate numerals that will likely repeat, and which notations are likely to be in the particular grid. One drawback of using notations is when the Sudoku grids are quite small, as on magazine or newspaper pages.

Analysis is another suggested way to solve Sudoku puzzles. There are two main tactics to using analysis: the "candidate elimination" method, and the "what if" method. Candidate elimination is just that: you do away with candidate numerals from the grids, until just one option is left. Scanning can effectively be combined with the candidate elimination. Another way to solve Sudoku with the analysis method is by asking "What If?" In this approach, the player will guess which is the correct choice of two numbers.

These are the basic steps to solve a manual Sudoku puzzle, but solving a two-player computerized game can be a little different. With a computer game, you are able to set the level of difficulty for each game, and the games can get very difficult. Try to solve the puzzle using the methods outlined above. The computer may give you extra hints or strategies. Plan or search for a good computation that will help you solve the puzzle more rapidly.

In working to solve Sudoku, you can use a combination of methods, or can even formulate new solutions that will work best for you. Learn the basics of the game and take each puzzle one step at a time. If certain lines of attack are boggling your mind, let them go. Pick up pieces of information where you think you have succeeded, and learn from those times where you fail. As with any game, you need to learn to take risks.

Face it; your brain could use a good workout. Chances are, just thinking about a Sudoku puzzle has already cleared some of the cobwebs away. Now, pick up a puzzle magazine or newspaper, grab a pencil and solve Sudoku for a full-brain workout.

About The Author: Robert Jones contributes articles to several web sites, including http://easy-recreation.com and http://kemop.com