‏إظهار الرسائل ذات التسميات Ways To Lose Weight. إظهار كافة الرسائل
‏إظهار الرسائل ذات التسميات Ways To Lose Weight. إظهار كافة الرسائل

Hypnosis Weight Loss: Some Ways to Stop the Weighting

♠ Posted by Unknown in

Controlling your weight and avoiding weight gain as you get older are important ways to prevent a host of weight-related health problems.

Indeed, if you are more than 20 pounds over your ideal weight, you are at greater risk for a rogues’ gallery of potentially deadly conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, endometrial cancer, obstructive sleep apnea, and breast cancer.

What’s more, most people who are overweight tend to avoid exercise, and that avoidance just adds to the toll paid for extra pounds.

If you have a sedentary lifestyle and are overweight, you are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems. And, if you already have a medical condition such as high cholesterol, being overweight puts you at higher risk for complications.

The good news is that even modest amounts of weight loss can improve your health significantly. Loss of 10% of body weight can reduce blood pressure, high cholesterol, triglyceride, and high blood sugar levels.

Today, there are many procedures that can contribute and help people loss weight effectively. One of the known procedure in losing weight is through hypnosis.

However, many misconceptions have come up with regards to the application of hypnosis in losing eight. And because it does not involve drugs or any kinds of medications and surgery, many people tend to think that losing weight through hypnosis seems to be one of the safest weight loss program.

To know more about hypnosis and its effects on losing weight, here is a list of some facts that will give you an insight about what it can do to your body weight.

1. Hypnosis can be an imminently risky if not done properly and not utilize by people who are highly trained with the real concept of hypnosis.

Even if many people tend to think that hypnosis will not pose imminent danger to their health, still, it is important to know that the person who will do the procedure is skilled enough and that he or she knows what factors to consider before doing the procedures.

2. Hypnosis alone cannot eliminate excess fat from the body and, therefore, make somebody lose weight.

Most health experts contend that hypnosis should only be a part of a whole assimilated process. It should never be used as the sole weight loss procedure.

Moreover, one session of hypnosis will only have very minimal results on an individual’s weight. When losing weight, hypnosis matched with psychotherapy will be more effective than hypnosis alone. This is because hypnosis is only a state of deeply relaxing the mind, in which one can still be in control of his or her own body.

3. Hypnosis is one way of getting into the subliminal state of a person. When a person is on the “hypnotic stage,” the body is more responsive to suggestibility because of its intensified state of concentration.

However, this does not necessarily mean that through hypnosis, one can already “reprogram” the mind of an individual.

In reality, hypnosis can only run the range from trouble-free relaxation condition to proper initiation managed by a professional hypnotists. Hence, it should not be considered paranormal and magical in its upshots.

Boiled down, people should be more aware that hypnosis is not a sole effective process in losing weight. It is more of a facilitator of various treatment techniques.

Therefore, it should be combined with other weight loss management program to be effective in making people lose excess weight. In this manner, people will be able to lose more weight with a more relaxed and refreshed state of mind.

As they say, a healthy mind is a healthy body.

Losing Weight the Healthy Way

♠ Posted by Unknown in



Almost 108 million Americans were overweight or obese in 1999. Until now, obesity continues to be a serious problem and is predicted to reach epidemic levels by the year 2020.

One way to prevent this scenario is to make people aware of the risks of being overweight or obese.

Here are some diseases that you are putting yourself in risk of if you are carrying a lot of extra pounds:

1. heart disease
2. stroke
3. diabetes
4. cancer
5. arthritis
6. hypertension

Losing weight helps to prevent and control these diseases.

The quick weight loss methods which have spread like fire these days do not provide lasting results. More often than not, dieting methods which involve dietary drinks, foods and supplement or  pills do not work. If they do, the results are just temporary.

It is better to rely on a healthy weight loss option which will provide lifetime results. You have to set realistic goals and not expect to lose a lot of pounds in a short span of time.

Here are some tips on how you can lose those unwanted pounds the healthy way:

1.   Do not starve your self.

The key to a healthier way of losing weight is: Do not diet.

You may seem happy and feel that you are losing those unwanted flabs on your belly and thighs by skipping meals. But remember that this would not last long. Your body cannot tolerate having insufficient food to fuel the energy that you use up everyday.

If you get used to skipping one or two meals a day, your stored calories will be used up instead of the energy that should have been provided by your meals. So if you just eat one huge sandwich in one day, it will end up straight to your problem area (i.e. highs, buttocks, hips).

2.  Start your day right.

Mothers always say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Have a healthy meal in the morning to jump-start your metabolism.

Your food intake after you wake up will be used to burn fat all day long.

3.  Eat small, healthy meals frequently.

Five  small-serving snacks per day is better than three hearty meals. Eating more frequently, and in small servings, can prevent over-eating. This will also increase your metabolism and make calories burn faster.

4.  Decide on how much weight you want to lose.

Keep your goals realistic. In the long run, it is virtually impossible for you to lose 40 pounds in 2 weeks. Have a mindset that you want to eat healthy to stay healthy for the rest of your life.

Once you have decided on a weight loss plan or program, stick to it and make sure that you follow your own set of dieting rules.

5.  Drink lots of water.

Your body needs sufficient water  to burn fat and keep your cells hydrated and healthy.

6.  Avoid too much sugar.

Plan your meals around lots of fruits and vegetables, some bread, rice or pasta for that carbo fix that you need, plus lean  meat and protein rich-foods. Sweets, sodas and pastries should be once-in-a-while indulgences only.

7.  Watch your fat intake.

Fat is not the culprit to being overweight. You need this to keep your weight at the proper level.

There is such a thing as healthy fats. Olive, peanuts and canola oil have them. Tuna, salmon and mackerel have omega-3 fats which is good for the heart.

8.  Exercise.

Leave your car if  you are only going a few blocks from home, take the stairs instead of the elevator, jog, cycle or  skate. Use these activites and other home chores if you are too lazy to go to the gym and take exercise classes. Make sure that you do this regularly and you will not even notice that you are already shedding pounds with these mundane activities.

It does not matter how much weight you plan or need to lose. What is important is that you set realistic goals for yourself.

Go slow. If you have already lost 5 or 6 pounds, give yourself a break then try to lose the next 5 pounds.

Eat healthy, drink lots of water, have enough sleep and exercise. This will give you a higher chance of losing weight and improving your health, which would result to a new, healthier you.

Hypnosis Weight Loss: Some Ways to Stop the Weighting

♠ Posted by Unknown in

Controlling your weight and avoiding weight gain as you get older are important ways to prevent a host of weight-related health problems.

Indeed, if you are more than 20 pounds over your ideal weight, you are at greater risk for a rogues’ gallery of potentially deadly conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, endometrial cancer, obstructive sleep apnea, and breast cancer.

What’s more, most people who are overweight tend to avoid exercise, and that avoidance just adds to the toll paid for extra pounds.

If you have a sedentary lifestyle and are overweight, you are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems. And, if you already have a medical condition such as high cholesterol, being overweight puts you at higher risk for complications.

The good news is that even modest amounts of weight loss can improve your health significantly. Loss of 10% of body weight can reduce blood pressure, high cholesterol, triglyceride, and high blood sugar levels.

Today, there are many procedures that can contribute and help people loss weight effectively. One of the known procedure in losing weight is through hypnosis.

However, many misconceptions have come up with regards to the application of hypnosis in losing eight. And because it does not involve drugs or any kinds of medications and surgery, many people tend to think that losing weight through hypnosis seems to be one of the safest weight loss program.

To know more about hypnosis and its effects on losing weight, here is a list of some facts that will give you an insight about what it can do to your body weight.

1. Hypnosis can be an imminently risky if not done properly and not utilize by people who are highly trained with the real concept of hypnosis.

Even if many people tend to think that hypnosis will not pose imminent danger to their health, still, it is important to know that the person who will do the procedure is skilled enough and that he or she knows what factors to consider before doing the procedures.

2. Hypnosis alone cannot eliminate excess fat from the body and, therefore, make somebody lose weight.

Most health experts contend that hypnosis should only be a part of a whole assimilated process. It should never be used as the sole weight loss procedure.

Moreover, one session of hypnosis will only have very minimal results on an individual’s weight. When losing weight, hypnosis matched with psychotherapy will be more effective than hypnosis alone. This is because hypnosis is only a state of deeply relaxing the mind, in which one can still be in control of his or her own body.

3. Hypnosis is one way of getting into the subliminal state of a person. When a person is on the “hypnotic stage,” the body is more responsive to suggestibility because of its intensified state of concentration.

However, this does not necessarily mean that through hypnosis, one can already “reprogram” the mind of an individual.

In reality, hypnosis can only run the range from trouble-free relaxation condition to proper initiation managed by a professional hypnotists. Hence, it should not be considered paranormal and magical in its upshots.

Boiled down, people should be more aware that hypnosis is not a sole effective process in losing weight. It is more of a facilitator of various treatment techniques.

Therefore, it should be combined with other weight loss management program to be effective in making people lose excess weight. In this manner, people will be able to lose more weight with a more relaxed and refreshed state of mind.

As they say, a healthy mind is a healthy body.

Herbalife Weight Loss Product: How to Weigh in With Lower Fat

♠ Posted by Unknown in

Genetics does play a role in obesity, of course, but not as big a role as you do. Most health experts say that the concept of genes compelling you to be heavy is a myth.

For the vast majority of us, genes may set the lower limits of our weight, but we set the upper limits by our food choices.

Nonetheless, we all know that most of us tend to put on weight as we age. In addition, if there is one thing we cannot prevent, it is the aging process. But we can prevent eating more and exercising less as we get older. And first of all, you have to have surgeries for food control in your life, strategies that work.

One of the known strategies is to take some weight loss medications. This does not necessarily mean those that are being advertised as diet pills but also those that fall under the category of herbal medicines. One of the fast-growing herbal medicines especially formulated to help you lose weight is the so-called herbalife weight loss product.

Herbalife weight loss product is one of the major breakthroughs as far as herbal medication is concerned. Herbalife weight loss products contain the necessary herbs in order to facilitate losing weight.

Some of the well-known herbalife weight loss products are herbalife formula 1 strawberry weight control powder, herbalife diet formula 1 tropical fruit, herbalife formula 1 vanilla diet slim lose weight, etc.

One of the best things about herbalife weight loss products is that they are great tasting products, easy-to-use, and is definitely effective in losing weight. Best of all, the prices are relatively affordable when compared to other weight loss products.

To know more of the benefits that herbalife weight loss products can do for you, here is a list of the advantages.

1. One of the best things about herbalife weight loss products is that you do not only lose pounds but also inches. This means that herbalife weight loss products do not just get rid of excess fats but also tone and shape the body built, curbing the imminent re-accumulation of fats.

2. Herbalife weight loss products do not only make you lose weight but also supply you with the nutrients that are needed by the body’s cells on a daily basis.

3. Herbalife weight loss products are known to have excellent taste that is why more and more people who have tried it are satisfied with its yummy flavors.

4. Best of all, herbalife weight loss products lets you eat more of the foods you like without having to worry about accumulating more weight in the end.

5. Herbalife weight loss products are also known to help you lessen the extra calorie ingestion. Hence, losing weight will be more effective.

What’s more, herbalife weight loss products give you the pleasing feeling that curbs your hunger while you lose weight.

The bottom line is that your mission for preventing weight gain, should you decide to accept it, is to eat fewer calories when you are not involved in activities that burn up those calories. Then, try to incorporate these herbalife weight loss products in your diet.

In the end, you will achieve the ideal weight you have long wanted to obtain.

"Losing Weight? - Go Herbal"

♠ Posted by Unknown in


These days, there is a great  need for overweight Americans to lose those excess pounds. Being healthy would not only lead them to have a healthier lifestyle but it will also literally lighten their load,  and improve their overall well-being.

There is a long  list of dieting options available. There are exercise programs, exercise machines, dietary supplements, dietary food and drinks, diet pills - there are even soaps which claim to help you lose pounds while you bathe.

One other available option to shed off those unwanted pounds is to  go herbal.

Herbal weight loss products have been in great demand for people who want to lose weight the natural way. However, when you take herbal supplements to lose weight, you would have to wait for a longer time for the results because of the more subtle effects of medicines which came from plants and natural herbs.

Here are some herbal weight loss options that you might want to consider:

1.   Herbal weight loss products

There are a lot of herbal weight loss products available in the market now. You can check out the Internet and you will find a lot of herbal weight loss pills and products.

Be careful, however, as there are some products which claim to be safe and natural because they are herbal, but some actually have  side effects because of non-extensive research on the effects of these products.

Here are some ingredients and chemicals which make up some  herbal weight loss products that you should watch out for, as they might have harmful effects to your health:

>  Senna. This is an herbal laxative. Senna is a main ingredient in weight loss teas, and it works by stimulation the colon. The downside effect of this herb is dehydration. It can also lead to colon problems and can become addictive. Some people, when addicted, are unable to perform bowel movements without it, so watch out.

>  Chromium picolinate. This is a synthetic compound found in herbal weight loss products. Chromium is a nutrient which helps regulate blood-sugar level.  However, this ingredient, when taken in high doses, may cause damage in the chromosomes. It can also lead to dehydration.

>  St. John's wort. This supplement increases the production of a chemical in the brain. If not used properly, it may cause eye and skin sensitivity, mild gastrointestinal distress, fatigue and itching.

Although a lot of herbal products claim to be safe and natural, it is better to scrutinize the ingredients and  research about the effects of the product itself before going for these herbal dietary pills.

2.  Organic food.

In Wichita, Kansas, organic food has found its way to more homes and restaurants. Organic food devotees  believe that consuming organic goodies help their bodies as well as the environment.

A person who buys organically raised eggs and vegetables claim to be healthier, and they are not spending money on doctors and prescriptions as these keep them healthier and away from the hospital. This could also be an option for weight watchers, as organic food is known to be kinder to your weight than chemically-processed food products.

3. Green Tea.

Studies show that intake of green tea, or green tea extracts burns extra calories. Also, green tea with caffeine can increase fat burning by up to 40% thereby reducing fat.

This is one good option for those who want to lose weight. In a study done, people who took green tea were found to lose 2 to 3 times more weight than those who did not drink green tea.

These results show that green tea is a natural product for the treatment of obesity. Thus, it also makes for a healthier dietary option, not to mention the good effects that it has on the body as compared to caffeine. A cup of tea gives an emmediate energy lift without the side effects of caffeine.

3. Caffeine.

Coffee provides an energy boost to increase fat burning. Caffeine also provides a likelihood to be active, which in turn increases your rate of calorie burn.

4. Immortality Herb

This herb, whose scientific name is Gymnostemna Pentaphyllum, is known to have the following benefits:

>  increases healthy blood flow
>  reduces artery blocks
>  aids healthy blood pressure
>  increases the rate of fat burning

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

There are pills and food supplements whose main ingredient is apple cider vinegar. Here are the benefits of taking this herbal option:

>  weight loss
>  improved cholesterol level
>  improved high blood pressure
>  helps prevent rheumatoid arthritis







"Losing Weight the Healthy Way"

♠ Posted by Unknown in


Almost 108 million Americans were overweight or obese in 1999. Until now, obesity continues to be a serious problem and is predicted to reach epidemic levels by the year 2020.

One way to prevent this scenario is to make people aware of the risks of being overweight or obese.

Here are some diseases that you are putting yourself in risk of if you are carrying a lot of extra pounds:

1. heart disease
2. stroke
3. diabetes
4. cancer
5. arthritis
6. hypertension

Losing weight helps to prevent and control these diseases.

The quick weight loss methods which have spread like fire these days do not provide lasting results. More often than not, dieting methods which involve dietary drinks, foods and supplement or  pills do not work. If they do, the results are just temporary.

It is better to rely on a healthy weight loss option which will provide lifetime results. You have to set realistic goals and not expect to lose a lot of pounds in a short span of time.

Here are some tips on how you can lose those unwanted pounds the healthy way:

1.   Do not starve your self.

The key to a healthier way of losing weight is: Do not diet.

You may seem happy and feel that you are losing those unwanted flabs on your belly and thighs by skipping meals. But remember that this would not last long. Your body cannot tolerate having insufficient food to fuel the energy that you use up everyday.

If you get used to skipping one or two meals a day, your stored calories will be used up instead of the energy that should have been provided by your meals. So if you just eat one huge sandwich in one day, it will end up straight to your problem area (i.e. highs, buttocks, hips).

2.  Start your day right.

Mothers always say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Have a healthy meal in the morning to jump-start your metabolism.

Your food intake after you wake up will be used to burn fat all day long.

3.  Eat small, healthy meals frequently.

Five  small-serving snacks per day is better than three hearty meals. Eating more frequently, and in small servings, can prevent over-eating. This will also increase your metabolism and make calories burn faster.

4.  Decide on how much weight you want to lose.

Keep your goals realistic. In the long run, it is virtually impossible for you to lose 40 pounds in 2 weeks. Have a mindset that you want to eat healthy to stay healthy for the rest of your life.

Once you have decided on a weight loss plan or program, stick to it and make sure that you follow your own set of dieting rules.

5.  Drink lots of water.

Your body needs sufficient water  to burn fat and keep your cells hydrated and healthy.

6.  Avoid too much sugar.

Plan your meals around lots of fruits and vegetables, some bread, rice or pasta for that carbo fix that you need, plus lean  meat and protein rich-foods. Sweets, sodas and pastries should be once-in-a-while indulgences only.

7.  Watch your fat intake.

Fat is not the culprit to being overweight. You need this to keep your weight at the proper level.

There is such a thing as healthy fats. Olive, peanuts and canola oil have them. Tuna, salmon and mackerel have omega-3 fats which is good for the heart.

8.  Exercise.

Leave your car if  you are only going a few blocks from home, take the stairs instead of the elevator, jog, cycle or  skate. Use these activites and other home chores if you are too lazy to go to the gym and take exercise classes. Make sure that you do this regularly and you will not even notice that you are already shedding pounds with these mundane activities.

It does not matter how much weight you plan or need to lose. What is important is that you set realistic goals for yourself.

Go slow. If you have already lost 5 or 6 pounds, give yourself a break then try to lose the next 5 pounds.

Eat healthy, drink lots of water, have enough sleep and exercise. This will give you a higher chance of losing weight and improving your health, which would result to a new, healthier you.

3 Hour Dieting

♠ Posted by Unknown in

 
When it comes to the world of dieting you will find that there are many diet, weight loss, and fitness plans on the market. It takes years for some to become a contender and others remain a best-kept secret of sorts. One such ‘best kept’ secret would be the 3 Hour Diet that was designed by Jorge Cruise. I am sure that there are many reading along and chuckling under your breath that there is no way one can lose weight by eating every three hours however the science behind the theory is fairly common and Jorge Cruise is a mainstay in the fitness industry.

The long and short of this diet operates with the knowledge that if you do not feed your body accurately and regularly your body will go into what is called ‘starvation mode’. In this mode your body holds onto the fat rather than burning it up and consuming it for use. This means that your body is burning muscle rather than fat to take the energy it needs in order to function.

With the 3 Hour Diet you will not feel hungry all the time, in fact, there are many who claim they are constantly setting alarms and reminding themselves to eat. You will also learn the proper foods to eat in order to achieve the best possible results. The key is in learning which foods are right for you when dieting with this plan. You can purchase the book The 3-Hour Diet by Jorge Cruise and you can sign up online for more information about the weight plan itself and how to incorporate it into your busy routine.

I do recommend purchasing the book if you are seriously considering this as your method of dieting as there are many wonderful hints, tips, and tricks that are mentioned in the book to help you keep things going no matter how busy and hectic your lifestyle may be. One thing you need to keep in mind is that dieting with a program such as this is no small commitment. You need to stick to the timetable as much as possible in order to achieve the results this plan is famous for. If you aren’t willing to eat every three hours then this plan really may not be the plan for you.

Otherwise, if this is something you would be interested in, I highly recommend it. There are special considerations based on the amount you weight currently and the amount of weight you are hoping to lose. It is best if you are honest throughout the process in order to achieve the best possible and most immediate results. The claim is that you can lose as many as 10 pounds in the first two weeks and there are those that have claimed to do just that over and over again. This is a diet that even many celebrities endorse for quick and immediate results.


The good and the bad about 3 hour dieting is that it is effective but takes a very real commitment on the part of the one that is dieting. This diet is one that is taking the world by storm. If you haven’t heard of it before now, please take the time to check it out and see if this is something you could incorporate into your life. The results that have been reported as a result of this diet as nothing short of phenomenal. If there were one diet I would recommend above others for those who hate feeling hungry, it would be this diet. 

Eating in the Zone—A Revolutionary Diet Choice

♠ Posted by Unknown in

         One of the most revolutionary diet ideas to come along is something called the Zone, which was originated by Barry Sears, Ph.D.  The Zone is based on the idea that we should return to the diets of ancient peoples—diets which stress fruits, vegetables, and meat.  The diet does not deny people carbohydrates, but simply limits their use.  Dieters are encouraged to sharply curtail their intake of pasta and potatoes.  The Zone works according to a formula of 40/30/30, meaning 40 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent fat, and 30 percent protein.   
           There is a physiological basis to the Zone.  Dr. Sears developed the diet in an effort to limit the amount of insulin in the body.  This is because a large amount of insulin can lead to a build up of fat, causing obesity and other medical problems.   People on the diet are encouraged to obtain their carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables and their fat from olive oil and other monounsaturated fats.
           The biggest advantage to the Zone diet is that it can lead to significant weight loss.  It is also healthier than some diets, since it eliminates non-nutritious carbohydrates and emphasizes fruits and vegetables.   The diet encourages people to eat often—at least every five hours.  It is also a low-calorie diet; the typical female dieter will consume only about 1300 calories at most following the Zone.  Another positive aspect of the Zone is that it discourages consumption of junk food, which may be the basis of much weight gain.
       Some dieticians heartily endorse the Zone, while others dismiss it as being too difficult to follow.  The diet can also be costly, because of its heavy reliance on protein products.   In addition, some critics see the Zone as being too complex, forcing dieters to spend too much time trying to do various calculations.
            But perhaps the biggest disadvantage of the Zone is its high protein content.  Such a diet has been linked to heart disease and is actually condemned by the American Heart Association.  In addition, the Heart Association questions whether the Zone is actually effective in enabling an individual to lose weight over the long term.  
             It has been said that the Zone diet is the polar opposite of a vegetarian diet.  This is curious, considering that vegetarians are generally healthy and are less likely to suffer from heart disease.  The fact that vegetarians tend to be slim also seems to poke a hole through Dr. Sears’ theory that starchy vegetables can lead to weight gain.
              People tend to gravitate to the Zone because it offers them the opportunity to indulge in foods that would be restricted on other diets.  Also, the diet can be more filling than other weight loss plans.  The problem, however, is that a number of the claims made about the Zone are unproven.  As a result, despite Dr. Sears’ research, the diet has been dismissed as a fad in some quarters.
               Dr. Sears contends that people are overweight because of insulin resistance; however, it is difficult to verify his claims.  It would appear that people are fat for all sorts of reasons—because of family history of obesity, eating patterns, emotional eating, and lack of nutritional knowledge.  As a result, it might be said that Dr. Sears’ diet is based upon a false assumption.
             The Zone benefits from a number of celebrity endorsements.  Actresses in Hollywood credit the Zone with helping them to lose weight.  On average, a dieter can expect to lose five pounds during the initial two weeks and one pound a week after that introductory period.
              Still, some critics charge that the Zone takes the fun out of eating.  Whether this is true or not depends upon the opinion of the individual dieter.  However, one thing is clear:  the Zone is a diet phenomenon.  Love it or hate it, it’s one of the hottest diet trends on the market today.  And it appears that, despite some negative publicity, the Zone is here to stay.  As always, you should check with your physician before starting any weight loss regimen.  He or she will closely monitor your progress and can determine whether you are suffering any ill effects as a result of your diet. 

           




Getting in Step with Weight Los

♠ Posted by Unknown in

           As children, one of the first exercises we learned how to do was walking.  While it may seem like an elementary form of exercise, walking can do wonders for the heart, the circulatory system, and our legs.  Walking can also be instrumental in helping individuals to lose weight. 

             Medical experts say the important thing to keep in mind when starting a walking program is distance rather than time.  In essence, it doesn’t matter how long it takes you to complete a mile—the important thing is to do it.    If you hope to burn off two pounds a week, you will need to walk enough to burn about 3500 calories.   If you weigh 160 pounds and you are walking at a rate of two miles per hour, you can burn as many as 105 calories.

            A helpful technique when beginning a walking program is to build up your leg muscles so that you are able to burn additional calories.  If you can, try to race-walk.  Your goal should be to finish a mile in 13 minutes.  Another technique you can use is by adding weights to your walking routine.  For instance, you can pack eight pound weights into a backpack and wear it as you walk.

            Ultimately, you might want to work up to the point where you are walking at least six hours a week.  In addition to helping you to shed pounds, this will enable you to combat such diseases as diabetes and cancer.  You should feel healthier—and perhaps happier—as a result of your walking.

              At this point, you might be wondering whether to do your walking outdoors or on a treadmill at a gym.  The choice is really up to you.  It depends largely on what makes you more comfortable.  Some people enjoy being out of doors—they like looking at the trees and the flowers as they move along.  Others find that the traffic and animals found outdoors can be too distracting.  Also, many people find it difficult to walk in the rain or snow.   Some individuals like the discipline offered by a treadmill, while others find it boring and confining.    One advantage to a treadmill is that it allows you to keep track of the number of miles you logged, as well as your speed.  That can be valuable information when you’re attempting to chart your progress.

             Of course, it’s best if you couple walking with a sound diet plan.  You should attempt to consume at least five servings a day of fruits and vegetables.  Limit your intake of high-fat foods and sweets.  Sensible eating will also enable you to maintain your weight over the long term.

              When you set out to walk, make sure that you begin with some stretching exercises.  These can help prepare your muscles for your workout.   In addition, begin your walk with a five or ten-minute warm up period.  The rest of your walk should be brisk—you should be walking at a pace similar to what you would use if you were late getting to work.  You should continue this pace for approximately 30 minutes, then begin a cool-down period where you walk at a more moderate pace.  Following this regimen should ensure that you get the most out of your walking. 

                One of the best aspects of walking is that it is an activity that nearly any able-bodied person can do.  It does not require special equipment or special training.  It is important, however, that you remain committed to walking.  Doing it for just one or two days a week is probably not enough to make an appreciable difference in your weight.  Rather, you should aim to do a brisk walk at least six days a week.  Once you get into the habit of walking, you should find it relatively easy to continue.  It’s something that can quickly become part of your morning routine.  In fact, some experts recommend that you do your walking in the morning to ensure that your metabolism is elevated throughout your day.  Walking late at night will not have the same effect; it will do little to raise your daily metabolism.    


The Vegetarian Diet: A Weight Loss Solution?

♠ Posted by Unknown in

          If you’ve been to any large banquets recently, you may have noticed people passing up the prime rib and baked chicken in order to feast on a vegetarian meal.  Vegetarianism seems to be gaining in popularity each year, spurred on by health concerns, weight difficulties, and celebrity endorsements.  You may find that a vegetarian diet is the key to weight loss in your particular case. 
       First of all, it is important to define the vegetarian diet.  You may be surprised to learn that there are actually a variety of vegetarian diets in use today.  In some cases, vegetarians eat only fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts.  In other cases, they may also eat cheese and drink milk, while in still other cases, they may eat eggs.       
      One of the advantages to the vegetarian diet is that it tends to be low in fat and cholesterol.  As a result, a vegetarian diet can help you avoid heart problems and even cancer.  However, you may also find that you are missing some important vitamins and minerals on a strictly vegetarian diet. 
        It has been said that the key to a successful vegetarian diet is planning.  You must decide what you will be eating for every meal in order to ensure that you receive the proper nutrients.  Otherwise, you may end up starving your body of the nutrients you need in order to be healthy. 
         A major benefit of the vegetarian diet is that it tends to involve a healthy serving of fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains.  However, getting enough protein can be a challenge.  Therefore, you might consider adding soy to your diet, which is high in protein content.   Another important consideration is iron.  You’ll need to make sure that you eat spinach and beans in order to guarantee that you receive enough iron, since you will not be consuming customary sources of iron such as liver and roast beef.  
           You may need to supplement your diet with vitamins in order to ensure that you receive the appropriate amount of B-12, Vitamin D, calcium, and zinc.  Otherwise, you’ll have to load up on cereals, soy milk, spinach, and broccoli.  Also, eating a vegetarian diet does not mean you have a license to eat as many sugary foods as you want.  You’ll still have to restrict high-calorie foods. 
           Variety has been called the spice of life and it is also the key to an effective vegetarian diet.  You’ll need to eat an array of fruits and vegetables.  Also, if you do use dairy, be sure that you choose non-fat or low-fat milk and cheese.  Since eggs are rich in cholesterol, you should eat them only in moderation.
      Studies have shown that vegetarians tend to consume fewer calories each day than meat-eaters.  Also, the body mass index—a tool used to measure obesity—is generally lower for vegetarians than for the population at large.  However, as a vegetarian, you will still need to pay attention to portion control and calorie counts.  Therefore, while vegetarianism may not be a panacea for weight loss, it can certainly help in the battle against the bulge.
         However, it should be noted here that some people mistakenly look upon vegetarianism as a quick fix.  They figure that if they give up meat for a couple of weeks, they’ll lose weight.  Then, after their trial period is over, they go back to their old eating habits.  This is a bad pattern because it encourages yo-yo dieting.  If you decide to go on a vegetarian diet, it is very important that you stick with it.  Otherwise, you may be greatly disappointed in your weight loss progress.
         Vegetarianism is not for everyone.  However, if you enjoy fruits and vegetables, are non-committal about meat, and are good at planning meals, you may want to go vegan.  But if you do not fall into that category, another diet plan may be preferable.  Which diet program you ultimately choose may depend greatly upon your personal preferences and what kind of diet regimen you are prepared to follow over the long run.  The key to any successful diet is commitment; you must be determined to succeed.





The Ultimate Weight Loss Solution

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          If you are a fan of TV talk show host Oprah Winfrey, you probably knew about Dr. Phil McGraw some time ago.  The advice guru is a favorite of Oprah’s because of his uncanny ability to “tell it like it is.”  Dr. Phil has used the same no-nonsense approach on his own television program and has also introduced millions to a new perspective on dieting with his ultimate weight loss solution.

         Dr. Phil’s approach may not be revolutionary, but it is instructive.  He preaches the gospel of healthy choices.  This means understanding the emotions that cause you to overeat in the first place.  He also offers tests to help you assess your own eating patterns.  Once you understand how your mind works, you can begin the daunting task of changing your environment.

         Dr. Phil argues that, while you may not be able to control circumstances, you can control your reaction to the difficulties that come your way.  This means taking ownership of your responses and leaving little to chance.  Such a stance can be quite empowering and can give you the confidence you need to succeed at weight loss.

         Another aspect of Dr. Phil’s plan is to resolve to quit complaining.  You need to realize that your situation will never get better if you simply complain about it.  Rather, you need to take decisive action.  You also have to realize that you can have an impact on your own weight—that your weight problems are not the other guy’s fault.

         Your primary task is to rid your own personal world of the temptations that cause you to binge.  After that, you need to devote your attention to nutritional concerns.  Dr. Phil also believes in establishing a healthy system of exercise that can help you lose weight over the long term. 

          Dr. Phil also believes that it is important for you to establish a support network that will enable you to reach your weight loss goals.  The importance of support cannot be overemphasized.  It is difficult to accomplish anything in life without someone in your corner, cheering you on.   The same is certainly true when it comes to weight reduction.  You’ll want a partner, someone you can turn to when the desire to overeat becomes overwhelming.  

          An interesting part of Dr. Phil’s plan is the self-assessment.  During his practice, Dr. Phil has found that some individuals sabotage their own diet success.  They may actually feel uncomfortable about losing weight; therefore, they lose weight only to gain it back again.  They may not be comfortable with the compliments they get from the opposite sex when they lose weight, so they hold onto their weight as a buffer against the outside world.  As a result, Dr. Phil recommends that individuals slow down and take stock of themselves before going onto a weight loss program.  During this slow-down period, they may identify those behaviors that keep them from having weight loss success.

         Dr. Phil also recommends conducting a reality check from time to time.  Challenge your own beliefs and pre-conceived ideas.  See if they stand up to scrutiny.  If not, it may be time to change your perspective about life in general and about weight loss in particular.  Dr. Phil also suggests that you seek closure for the emotional issues in your life.  This might mean attacking your own anger, or forgiving someone who has hurt you.  With this closure, you can ready yourself to handle the challenge of losing weight.

         Supporters of Dr. Phil’s plan say that it is a common sense approach to weight loss.  They applaud Dr. Phil for tackling the emotional issues surrounding weight gain.  However, critics contend that there is nothing new or all that interesting in Dr. Phil’s approach, that it covers ground that has been covered time and time again.   In the end, you’ll probably have to do your own research to determine if Dr. Phil’s approach will work for you, or if another method would be better.   The one positive aspect of Dr. Phil’s prescription is that it is unlikely to harm you, and could actually do you a world of good.        











Slim-Fast: Drinking Your Way to Weight Loss

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       You may have seen one of the ever-present cans in the grocery store and been tempted to pick it up.  Yet, you’re not sure whether Slim-Fast will be effective in helping you to lose weight.  You should know that the Slim-Fast program is considered quite successful in the fight against fat—although not everyone is sold on the plan.

       Nearly thirty years ago, S. Daniel Abraham revolutionized weight loss programs with the Slim-Fast drink.  According to the company website, Slim-Fast represents a sensible way to slim down.  In fact, more than two dozen medical studies indicate that the diet program is a winning formula for losing weight.   Slim-Fast is considered to be a nutritionally-balanced plan, offering dieters proteins, carbohydrates, and a healthy amount of fat. 
      
        One of the recommendations of the Slim-Fast program is its convenience.  You can drink on the run, enabling you to fit nutrition into your busy day.  In addition, the program is considered far less expensive than other diet plans, particularly pre-packaged diet plans such as NutriSystem and Jenny Craig.   Slim-Fast also now offers more variety.  In addition to all the different flavors of shakes it offers, Slim-Fast also provides dieters with soup, pasta, and nutrition bars.   In all, Slim-Fast now features more than a hundred different products.  If you follow the Slim-Fast plan, you will need to eat three meals each day, along with three snacks made up of fruits and vegetables.   Two of the meals and one snack must be made up of Slim-Fast products.  Because of the frequency with which you’ll be eating, you shouldn’t suffer from hunger pains.  One study actually showed that individuals who used Slim-Fast over a period of a decade were 33 pounds lighter than dieters who did not use Slim-Fast products.

          Another advantage to the Slim-Fast program is that you don’t have to worry about counting calories, cooking meals, or figuring out portion sizes.  Slim-Fast has, in essence, done the work for you.   Also, you can now choose between two different Slim-Fast programs:  the Optima Diet and the Plan for a Low-Carb Lifestyle.

        The company’s website contends that the program is a proven weight loss tool.  Dieters have had success in maintaining their weight over one to five years’ duration.   A spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association has called the website “user-friendly.”  By visiting the site, you can be put in touch with registered dieticians who can answer your concerns.  The website also offers a support group, which can be a critical factor in maintaining weight loss over the long term. 

         Slim-Fast’s goals as far as weight loss is concerned follow government guidelines.  The idea is to lose ten percent of one’s weight over six months, meaning that one would shed no more than two pounds a week.  Slim-Fast’s plan calls for only 30 minutes of exercise a day, which seems entirely doable.  Dieters may also be inspired by the success stories posted on the company’s website.   

         However, there are disadvantages to the Slim-Fast program.  For instance, if you don’t like the taste of the shakes or food, you could find it difficult to continue with the meal plan.  Also, some people report feeling hungry, despite eating the recommended portions of food.   Slim-Fast, in essence, does the thinking for you, so, for the most part, you do not get the experience of shopping for wholesome food for yourself.  You might also tire of the program quickly, causing you to gain back the weight you initially lost.  While Slim-Fast may be effective for the short-term, it is a difficult program to maintain for life.

       As a result, Slim-Fast gets mixed reviews—even from members of the medical community.  While some dieticians are fans of meal replacement programs, others see them as potentially harmful and nutritionally inadequate.  Whether you can effectively lose weight with Slim-Fast depends upon whether you have the discipline and desire to remain with the program for the long-term.   If you start to use Slim-Fast for a while, then stop, you will likely gain back the weight you initially lost.   However, for decades now, Slim-Fast has been winning the hearts of dieters and the company shows no signs of slowing down in the near future.  Slim-Fast may be one way that you can drink yourself to optimum weight loss.  






Shopping Your Way to Weight Loss

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        While shopping may not qualify as an aerobic activity, it can certainly help you to shed the pounds, if you follow the right formula.  What you buy largely determines what you will eat.  Therefore, if you want to maintain a healthy diet at home, you’ll need to do some advanced planning before heading out to the supermarket.

        The secret to weight loss may begin with your shopping list.  You need to take some time before going to the store to assess what your nutritional needs are.  For instance, a healthy diet might very well include breads and cereals, dairy products, vegetables and fruits, along with meat, fish and poultry.  However, you’ll need to decide on exactly which products to buy within each food category.

        For instance, rather than purchasing white bread or cereals with little fiber, consider whole wheat bread and whole wheat cereals.  Pass up the whole milk and whole milk yogurt and buy non-fat milk and yogurt instead.  You should avoid iceberg lettuce and opt for Romaine; select fresh fruit rather than fruit in heavy syrup.   You may be tempted to buy fried chicken, bacon or spareribs, but choose low-fat options such as baked chicken, lean hamburger, and grilled fish.

       It’s a good idea to go grocery shopping after you have eaten a full meal.  Otherwise, your hunger could drive you to buy junk food and other unhealthy snacks.  If you are operating on a full stomach, you’ll think more clearly and you will be less likely to buy food impulsively.  Also, it is critically important that you do not buy more food than you need.  Otherwise, you will have a powerful incentive to overeat.

       Before you go shopping, you might want to check out the layout of the supermarket.  Find out where you can find those items that are likely to appear on your list.  Otherwise, you could find yourself browsing the shelves, looking for food that appears interesting—but could also be quite fattening.  Certainly, it may take some extra time to “scope out” the supermarket, but it will be well worth the effort, if it results in weight loss.

      Whenever possible, you should buy individually packaged food.  These single servings allow you to maintain proper portion control.  For instance, if you feel you must indulge in potato chips, you will be far better off if you buy a single-serving bag rather than the family pack.  Remember, large portions equal weight gain.

      You might actually want to avoid shopping with coupons.  Coupons can tempt you to buy high-calorie items that you might otherwise pass up.  While everyone wants a good bargain, you don’t want to end up paying for that deal by gaining additional pounds.  It’s a sad fact that you will rarely find a coupon for fresh fruit and vegetables.  But you might think of the situation this way:  You will end up saving money if you eat “fresh” because you will not have to invest in additional clothes.

      Also, when you’re considering which foods to buy, concentrate on the product labels.  There, you’ll find a great deal of nutritional information, indicating fat content, calorie content, portion size, and vitamin and mineral content.  If you end up bringing the product home, you should serve the item according to the suggested portion size.  In other words, if a portion equals one-half cup, don’t opt for two cups.  In essence, you should be treating food as if it’s a medication that must be used as directed.  In this way, you should avoid the weight loss that comes with overeating.

       It is interesting to note that the American Institute for Cancer Research determined that only 12 percent of shoppers determined portion size by using the label.  As a result, paying attention to nutrition labels is a counter-cultural thing to do.  But it is certainly a good habit to get into.  Otherwise, at the end of the day, you could end up with far more fat than you bargained for.

        You may be amazed at the amount of weight you can lose just by diligent shopping.  A little advanced planning can go a long way to ensuring weight loss.  And you might actually save yourself some money, since you will no longer be buying expensive snacks. 

          


Reward Your Way to Weight Loss

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            From an early age, we are conditioned to reward ourselves with food.  It might have begun in kindergarten, when we were treated to cupcakes at the annual Halloween party.  It may have continued through junior high and high school, when we reached for the cookies after a hard day at school.  In adulthood, we may buy a high-calorie frappucino to celebrate a success on the job. 

            But the problem is, food was not designed to be a reward.  It exists simply to give us energy.  When we look at food as a reward, there is a great temptation to overeat.  We believe that we deserve it, that we’ve earned this opportunity to indulge.  We feel gratified when we eat food that might otherwise be forbidden.

            Our food-as-reward culture has had calamitous consequences.  An increasing number of us are overweight, and getting fatter by the year.  We suffer from a myriad of health problems as a result of our obesity.  We may feel lethargic and unmotivated—too stuffed to engage in exercise.  We have become a nation of couch potatoes.

             Yet, we don’t have to continue living this way.  We can simply stop rewarding ourselves with food.  However, it may not be that simple.  We will have to change our mindset—to develop alternative systems of rewards.  While this may seem difficult at first, it can be accomplished in time.

               Here are some ideas for rewards that do not involve food:

·         Give yourself a day at the beach.  This can clear your mind and can be wonderfully invigorating.
·         Schedule some play time.  Your play might involve tennis, video games, or blowing bubbles—whatever activity that will get your mind away from the daily routine.
·         Go shopping at a dollar store.  You won’t spend much, but you could pick up some tremendous bargains.
·         Share some quality time with your dog or cat.  Grab some pet toys and have some fun.
·         Go to the cosmetics counter of your local department store and indulge in a makeover.
·         Spend a day at a spa.  It can be wonderfully relaxing to be pampered with massage and aromatherapy.
·         Volunteer an hour or two at your local elementary school.  Being with children, even for a short time, can be a rewarding experience.
·         Take your children to the playground, a roller rink, or a swim club.  The activity can leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
·         Buy a new CD from one of your favorite musical artists.  Then make sure you spend an hour or two listening to it.
·         If you play a musical instrument, sit down and play a few tunes.  Music can be a great mood-elevator.
     If you don’t like the idea of developing an alternative reward system, consider simply varying your routine.  If you’ve become accustomed to rewarding yourself with a high-calorie cappuccino in the morning, spend some time in quiet prayer or reflection instead.  If you feel as if you’ll be tempted to raid a candy store on your way home from work, take an alternate route instead.  In general, keeping busy can prevent you from indulging in food rewards.  For instance, you might be so busy reading or knitting that you simply don’t have time to reach for a snack.

         Making a conscious decision to no longer use food as a reward is certainly counter-cultural.  We have been conditioned to believe that there should be a plate of brownies at the end of the rainbow…that heaven is just one hot fudge sundae after another.  While food itself isn’t bad, our expectations about food can be.  The first step to ending a food addiction may be to recognize that food can no longer serve as our reward.


           While it can be rough getting out of the food-as-reward habit, it is well worth the effort.  If we no longer view food as the prize, we will organize our day differently.  We’ll devote our mealtimes to food, and the rest of our day to something else.  We will eat only those foods designed to help us stay healthy—and we’ll be in better shape as a result.      

The Low-Cal Approach to Weight Loss

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        Counting calories may seem old-fashioned today, given the proliferation of low-carb and high protein diets.  However, a number of dieticians maintain that the low calorie approach is actually the best approach to weight loss.  While it may seem trite, lowering the number of calories we consume can have a marked 
effect on our waistlines.

Losing Weight, the Jenny Craig Way

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        Actress Kirstie Alley made headlines when she lost 50 pounds following the Jenny Craig weight program.  As a result, Alley has become an outspoken advocate of this nutrition system.  While Alley’s weight loss may be surprising, you may be wondering whether you could duplicate her success.   But, to begin with, you need to have an understanding of Jenny Craig, the company’s claims, and whether the weight loss program is a sure-fire way to lose weight.

A Lesson in Eating—the Right Way

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A Lesson in Eating—the Right Way

          It probably comes to you as naturally as breathing—the art of eating.  However, you might never have been taught to eat well.  This is critically important because, unless you learn to eat well, you may never master the art of dieting.  In our society, certain inappropriate eating habits have become routinely.  By attacking these habits, you can increase the likelihood that you will actually lose weight.

Losing Weight by Thinking Green

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           Now more than ever, people are trying to lose weight by thinking green.  Green tea is one of the hottest products on the market today.  Its medicinal qualities have been known for years.  But can green tea actually enable you to shed those unwanted pounds? 


The Detox Diet: Losing Weight the Natural Way

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        If you prefer the natural way of life—organic foods, home-grown vegetables, and fishing for yourself—the detox diet may be just what you’re looking for.  This diet plan is designed to rid the body of any toxic materials.  Because of the numerous chemicals that exist in our world, a number of individuals say a detox diet is necessary for good health in the long-term.  With the detox diet, the body rids itself of toxins through the skin and lungs.  The diet may be accompanied by other holistic health techniques, such as the administration of nutritional supplements, hydrotherapy, and physical activity.  

The Atkins Method: Is it Right for You?

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          Over the years, the Atkins plan has become synonymous with weight loss.  Fans of the program say that it has proven to be instrumental in helping them to shed unwanted pounds.  They talk of improved overall health and greater energy as a result of the Atkins program.  However, critics maintain that Atkins could lead to heart damage, making it an unhealthy diet.