Low Fat Diet Plan - Weight Loss For Healthy Living

Lose Weight, Don’t Skip Breakfast

Heidispeare — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 20:59:17 +0000

We have all known that experts recommend that when following a good diet, that one never should skip breakfast. However, recently WebMD covered a story which only substantiates it further. “People skip breakfast thinking they’re cutting calories, but by mid-morning and lunch, that person is starved,” says Milton Stokes, RD, MPH, chief dietitian for St. Barnabas Hospital in New York City. “Breakfast skippers replace calories during the day with mindless nibbling, bingeing at lunch and dinner. They set themselves up for failure.”

Worried about bad eggs? How to buy the healthiest ones

Heidispeare — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 23:53:12 +0000

In the wake of the nationwide recall of eggs for contamination with salmonella, many consumers may be wondering what types of eggs are healthiest and safest to buy?

More than 90 percent of U.S. eggs come from caged hens. These birds have a space smaller than the size of a sheet of paper to move around, and live in filthy conditions. Aside from animal welfare concerns, that’s bad for our health, too, Pennsylvania State University shows, because researchers recently found eggs raised on pasture are much more nutritious than eggs from their caged counterparts.

Penn State’s study, published recently in the journal Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems found that pastured hens—ones kept outside on different pastures where they can exhibit natural behavior and forage for bugs and grasses—boasted higher vitamin and omega-3 fatty acid levels when compared to their commercially fed, battery-cage-kept counterparts. Eggs from pastured hens contained twice as much vitamin E and 2.5 times more total omega-3 fatty acids as the eggs from caged birds contained.

What it means

There are dozens of claims that manufacturers can make on egg cartons. Some of them are meaningful, but others are just ways to trick consumers into thinking they’re buying eggs from happy chickens. (Remember, 90 percent of chicken eggs produced in this country come from the worst type of production system—battery cages.)

In an ideal situation, you would purchase your eggs from a local farmer in your area who raises chickens on pasture with plenty of space per bird, and uses moveable, open-air chicken houses, sometimes called chicken tractors, to protect the birds from predators.

Eliminating cruel chicken cages is a matter of human health as well as animal welfare. The farther you take chickens away from their natural behaviors, the worse the quality of their eggs or meat.

“When you put four or five chickens in tiny cages, they can’t engage in normal chicken behavior—pecking in the dirt, dusting. If they’re in a cage, they can’t do any of these things,” explains chicken expert Gail Damerow, author of the classic Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens (Storey, 2010). (She hasn’t purchased a store-bought egg since 1982.) “The pressure of the wire cages against their feet causes infections, their feathers rub off on the side of the cages. Basically, they’re just totally frustrated. They’ve got nothing to do. They can’t run around and eat flies and take dust baths. They just sit and lay eggs—what kind of life is that?” One result of all that stress and cruelty is that confined birds’ eggs contain less nutrition than eggs from hens with room to roam.

What the labels on the egg carton really mean:

• “Cage-Free” “Cage-free is certainly not like Old McDonald’s farm,” explains Paul Shapiro, spokesperson for the Humane Society of the United States. But it’s a lot better than battery cages, where most eggs are produced. “Cage-free” means that animals are not kept in cages, but generally they are kept inside in an enclosed building. While this is less than ideal, at least this setup gives animals a chance to spread their wings and lay eggs in nest boxes, which is closer to their natural behavior. Cage-free does not imply antibiotics were not used on hens.

• “Free-Range” or “Free-Roaming” Usually these types of operations allow chickens outside of cages in barns or warehouses, but they aren’t required to provide the animals any specific amount of time outside—or even exposure to sunlight indoors. There’s no third-party inspection required for free-range claims, and the chickens can be debeaked or forced into molting through starvation, according to the Humane Society of the United States.

Benefits of Probiotics in Diet

Heidispeare — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 20:34:30 +0000

Probiotics are microorganisms such as bacteria or yeast that are believed to improve health. They are available in supplements and foods. The idea of taking live bacteria or yeast may seem strange at first. After all, we take antibiotics and use antibacterial substances to fight bacteria. But our bodies naturally teem with such organisms.

The digestive system is home to more than 500 different bacterial species. They help keep intestinal linings healthy and assist in breaking down food. Beneficial organisms are also believed to help regulate healthy immune response.

Researchers believe that some digestive disorders result when the balance of friendly bacteria in the intestines becomes disturbed. This can happen after an infection or after taking antibiotics. Intestinal problems can also arise when the lining of the intestines is damaged. Introducing new beneficial organisms in the form of probiotics may help.

Although evidence is still being gathered, researchers say there are enough data to rate the effectiveness of probiotics for several specific illnesses. In 2008, a panel of experts at Yale University reviewed the latest findings. They concluded that probiotics are most effective for:

Acute childhood diarrhea
Preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea
Preventing pouchitis, an intestinal inflammation that can follow serious intestinal surgery
Regulating immune response
Treating and preventing eczema associated with cow’s milk allergy

The Yale University panel of experts concluded that probiotics may be helpful in other ways, although the evidence so far is less convincing. These include:

Easing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
Preventing childhood diarrhea
Treating diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile bacteria, which can infect the colon

Probiotics may also be useful in unexpected ways. A study published in 2010 suggests that probiotics may decrease the risk of common childhood problems such as ear infections, strep throat, colds, and diarrheal illness. The study included 638 children aged 3 to 6 in day care centers/schools. The children who drank a yogurt drink containing a probiotic were 19% less likely to come down with a common infection.

Love Tea? Read this.

Heidispeare — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 18:51:08 +0000

Labels on bottled tea beverages are typically plastered with declarations of their rich antioxidant content. But a new study suggests, if you’re looking for high doses of healthful antioxidants, you might be better off brewing your tea at home.

Many of the popular beverages included in the study contain fewer antioxidants than a single cup of home-brewed green or black tea, the researchers say. Some store-bought teas contain such small amounts that consumers would have to drink 20 bottles to get the antioxidants, also called polyphenols, present in one cup of tea.

“There is a huge gap between the perception that tea consumption is healthy and the actual amount of the healthful nutrients — polyphenols — found in bottled tea beverages. Our analysis of tea beverages found that the polyphenol content is extremely low,” said study researcher Shiming Li, an analytical and natural product chemist at WellGen, Inc., a biotechnology company in North Brunswick, N.J., that develops medical foods for patients with diseases, including a proprietary black tea product that will be marketed for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

In addition, bottled beverages often contain large amounts of sugar that health-conscious consumers may be trying to avoid, Li said.

The study was presented Aug. 22 at the 240th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in Boston.

Bottled vs. brewed
Antioxidants are substances that protect cells against damage from unstable molecules called free radicals. They may play a role in preventing a host of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseasecancer, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s.

Li and colleagues measured the level of polyphenols of six brands of tea purchased from supermarkets. Half of them contained what Li characterized as “virtually no” antioxidants. The rest had small amounts of polyphenols that Li said probably would carry little health benefit, especially when considering the high sugar intake from tea beverages.

6 Reasons Dairy Can Help You Lose Weight

Heidispeare — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:25:48 +0000

Studies have long proven that Dairy products can assist in weight loss. You can lose body weight by consuming the right types of dairy products and getting the recommended serving sizes per day. Recently there was an article published on Web MD that covered the 6 reasons that you should add dairy to your diet. Here is a summary of these reasons:

Protein and calcium- Most dairy products consist of large amounts of calcium and protein. People do not always get everything that they need in the arena of these vitals, and dairy products can give them double doses. Rich dairy products such as low-fat yogurt, reduced fat cheese, and cottage cheese can be tasty treats that get in these important daily values.
Vitamin D- Dairy foods have a rich source of vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for getting the body to absorb calcium appropriately, and for the promotion of healthy bones. Where many foods have vitamin D, dairy products are starting to add more of this essential to their products where it assures everyone gets enough of what their body needs. It also helps ward off some disease and cancers.
Bone Density- Getting calcium from food, rather than supplements, seems to do your bones good. A study in Finland looked at changes in bone thickness and density in girls 10 years old-12 years old whose diets were supplemented with either cheese, calcium, or calcium plus vitamin D. The cheese-eating group appeared to have bigger increases in bone mass than the other groups.
Blood Pressure- Calcium has been suspected of having an effect on blood pressure in the past. But the Spanish researchers found that only calcium from low-fat dairy products was related to a lower blood-pressure risk. The researchers suggested that this could have something to do with the proteins found in low-fat dairy (caseins and whey), which may have actions similar to those of blood pressure-lowering drugs.
Metabolic syndrome-27 men and women, Iranian researchers concluded that those who consumed the most dairy (milk, yogurt, and cheese) were less likely to have enlarged waists and metabolic syndrome, a group of symptoms that has been shown to increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Weight- In a recent review article, a researcher from the University of Alabama at Birmingham noted that although an analysis of overall calcium consumption has not linked calcium to greater weight loss, there is increasing evidence that calcium from dairy products may play a role in body-weight regulation.

For any or all of the above reasons, aim to work in some low-fat dairy each day, whether it’s from skim or 1% low-fat milk, low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, reduced-fat cheese, or a combination.

Is Cooking in Plastic Hindering Your Weight Loss?

Heidispeare — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 15:44:18 +0000

There have been myths and statements made in the media that cooking foods in plastic can cause your weight loss efforts to flop, and just recently a subscriber commented on WebMD about this, and the answer she got summed it up perfectly. Dr. Peeke a well known expert utilized a John Hopkin’s physician to substantiate that plastics can be causing ill fate in some diets is a RUMOR. Why? The description he provided explains that foods should be cooked in ceramic and glass. She states further “Anytime you heat plastic, chemicals are released. Conversely, when you freeze in plastic, this does not occur. When you microwave a packaged food, try to remove it from the plastic container and place in a dish or glass or ceramic container instead.” HOWEVER, there is no substantial research that can prove this.

In addition, recently on John Hopkin’s website they printed this:

Email Hoax Regarding Freezing Water Bottles and Microwave Cooking

The Internet is flooded with messages warning against freezing water in plastic bottles or cooking with plastics in the microwave oven. These messages, frequently titled “Johns Hopkins Cancer News” or “Johns Hopkins Cancer Update,” are falsely attributed to Johns Hopkins and we do not endorse their content.

Freezing water does not cause the release of chemicals from plastic bottles.

In general, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when using any plastic products. When cooking with plastics, only use those plastic containers, wraps, bags and utensils for their intended purposes.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) has some helpful guidelines for cooking with plastics in microwave ovens.

So you should use your own discretion of whether you want to believe this or not, and omit plasticware cooking if it is the case.

Weight Loss Pill Meridia Poses LARGE Risks

Heidispeare — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 14:48:43 +0000

When someone is at a loss for what to do about weight loss, they often resort to pills that curb hunger, speed metabolism, and alter the way the body reacts to food. This often results in desperation of taking prescribed diet pills, that have yet to be tested and may cause large risks. There is so much truth about this ordeal, that recently an article on WebMD substantiates this exact statement.

Researchers from Abbott the makers of Meridia have collaborated with other medical scientists in a study that has indicated that consumption and use of Meridia can increase risk of Stroke and Heart Attack in individuals who take it regularly. However, as a result of this study, European authorities have banned the drug entirely. Later Meridia was referred to in an editorial published in the New England Journal of Medicine as “another flawed diet pill.” Though, FDA experts disagree and say that the diet pill should not be prescribed to people with heart conditions.

Individuals with heart conditions, have a 52% increase in their risk of stroke or heart attack if they take this diet pill, however some say that the modest results of weight loss experienced with Meridia are not worth the ramifications for people who have underlying and undiagnosed heart conditions. Is Meridia worth it? We will all find out on September 15, when the FDA makes it recommendations.

Rev Up Your Weight Loss Routine

admin — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:01:43 +0000

A weight loss routine can consist of many aspects of weight loss including eating healthy, avoiding unhealthy foods and substances, and exercising regularly. However, there comes a time where some of the routine activities you have been doing experience a plateau. When this occurs, you are usually required to rev up you weight loss routine in order to boost metabolism and lose the last few pounds. Here are some suggestions for revving your weight loss routine up to get the maximum amount of benefits:

Eat fat burning foods- Science is proving regularly that there are certain foods that have fat burning components that boost metabolism and improve overall health. Yo may want to find out in a search what these food are and then purchase them according to your preference. Eating these foods alone can help you lose an extra 1-2lbs a week.
Colon Cleanse- A colom cleanse may be just what the dr ordered in order to kick start your weight loss routine. People report losing up 10lbs after their first cleanse. This is because debris and toxins get trapped in the body, and the cleanse is what rids your body of the elements that are causing extra weight to be retained. Try a mild colon cleanse or a natural at first to see if it is going to be effective for you.
Interval training- Interval training is an exceptional tactic to use when experiencing a lull in weight loss. it consists of several excercises that are performed consistently in a specific order. These exercise boost metabolism and raise heart rate so that the body burns fat and calories faster than it normally would. Consider this a great method, and research through the net the various programs that can provide you with the necessary exercises that you need.
Avoid night eating- Binging on food past 7 PM has been the subject of great debate, however the polls indicate that night eating can contribute to ill weight loss and weight gain. In order for you to lose a few more pounds you may want to consider not eating after a specific time. This will allow your body to rest without string excess food and nutrients as fat.
Eat more often mini-meals- When you eat mini meals, your body burns fat and calories. It is found that sometimes for individuals who have fasted and have a shady history of starvation and fad diets have problems with metabolism. Eating smaller portions more often can assist you in communicating to your body that it can release fat stores, and that it will get the nutrients it needs consistently. The body holds fat when someone has not demonstrated to it that it will be nourished.

These are a few suggestions to get your weight loss routine in action, and to overcome the plateau that you may be experiencing. Everyone’s results may vary , but these suggestions are viable and should be effective for revving up your weight loss routine!

Tips for Succeeding on a Low Fat Diet Plan

admin — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:20:09 +0000

When you are aiming to lose weight it is crucial that you understand the things that make it easier for you to succeed. this includes following a low fat diet plan according to basic details and ideal details. As a given you are already aware that Low Fat Diets consist of foods that have lower amounts of fats. This enables your body to burn fat as it is not being overwhelmed with grams and grams that are eventually left to be stored in the body. The best way to follow this type of diet is to adhere to the following guidelines:

Read the labels- When you want to concentrate on foods with low fats, it is important that you consult the labels and understand which foods possess small amounts and large amounts of fat calories. This helps you get the necessary recommendations of calories without the excess fat cells that go along with them. most foods are now required to have labels that show the different nutritional values per serving sizes. This way if you look at the top the label will indicate the amount of fat that is in the food product. pay attention to this and you can keep better track, which will produce the end result of successful weight loss.
Do not cheat- There is nothing like blowing a diet, more than cheating or breaking past the guidelines that are presented within the plan stick to the foods that are permissible and do not splurge on fried foods that contain enormous amounts of calories and fat grams. You will assure a positive outcome when you avoid the temptations that are before you.
Follow the meal plan entirely- Most low fat diet plans consist of detailed meal planning that are put in place for good reason. if you forsake this meal planning, then you are most likely lining yourself up for diet failure. Do not bother to go on a low fat diet if you are planning on doing it your way!
Try to get some exercise- It is already known that exercise burns fat and calories. With this being said, it is important that you try to boost your metabolism by exercising regularly. Exercise can burn fat and excel your weight loss to more than 2-4lbs in a week.
Write down everything in a food journal- One of the major keys that have been found for people who succeed at a low fat diet plan is that they keep a journal of everything they eat including calories, foods, splurges, and exercising. By this you can record your weight weekly and see what has kept you on track and what affects your daily activities. This can give you a great insight and motivation when losing focus on your overall weight loss goals.

You will ultimately succeed at this type of diet plan, if you put forth the determination, dedication, and efforts to do so. Stay up with the latest facts on low fat diet plans, and you will learn more and more as you progress towards your goals of obtaining ultimate health!

Low Fat Diet Plan Does it Work?

admin — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:45:26 +0000

You hear so much about low fat diet plans now a days that is is hard to believe if they really work effectively for weight loss or not. Yes the majority of the people in this world are stricken by the food media and the fat burdened foods that they are placing on society. More and more people are trying to take the necessary steps to become healthy and lose weight to fend off disease, sickness, and weight gain. However, not all low fat diet plans are made alike. Some call for extreme amounts of fats to be cut out of your diet and others enable the good types of fat that your body requires.

So what is the best low fat diet plan and does it work? Yes a low fat diet plan will work for you if you stay committed and follow these simple tips:

Stay away from an overabundance of sweets Even though normal sweets do not contain a lot of fats, sweets do have high amounts of sugars and calories that are often stored and accumulated in the body as fat cells. If you limit your sugar intake, you will notice even 1-2 lbs of weight loss a week from the negative calories your body will burn.
Eat Low Fat meals You can prepare low fat meals that taste delicious, if you remember to pass on the margarine, fried foods, and opt for baked, broiled, and skinless meats. Fat calories are heavier calories that are processed differently in the body, if you watch these types of fat grams and calories you can lose weight without hardly trying.
Exercise regularly Exercise is an incredible fat burning component that can boost your metabolism and take your body in overdrive as far as weight loss is concerned. After you exercise, you continue burning calories and fat as your body pumps blood and oxygen to the muscles that have been used to restore them.
Drink plenty of water It is crucial that when you are on a low fat diet plan that you stay hydrated by drinking tons of water. In addition, water can make you feel full so that your appetite is suppressed and you do not consume as much food. Also water flushes the body as you lose weight and prevents water retention.
Eat Fat Burning foods There are several fat burning foods that have elements and nutrients in them that can boost metabolism, are part of an effective low fat diet plan and that are proven to literally melt off fat cells that are a result of too much fat intake.

A low fat diet plan has the potential to work very effectively for all types of people. It is actually dependent upon the commitment and discipline that one places on their lifestyle and eating habits. If it will work or not for you, is entirely up to you. But with the proper motivation and good nutritional advice you will be well on your way to the new leaner you.