Showing posts with label weight loss. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weight loss. Show all posts

Wednesday, 1 May 2013

How To Burn Fat And Tone Muscle Without Lots Of Space

Many of us have good intentions when it comes to getting into shape but are always held back by some problems. One of the most common problems is space. What can you do if you don't have enough room to do star jumps or to fill your home with gym equipments? Fortunately there are many ways around this problem; you can still tone up and burn a lot of fats without needing to rent a storage unit. Let's take a look at some solutions.

CV or Cardiovascular
How To Burn Fat And Tone Muscle Without Lots Of Space

For the Cardiovascular exercise, a foldable cross-trainer or any other collapsible resistance machine should be great and won't take up too much space in the corner of your room. To get the most from it, you can try to adopt the ’interval training' approach. This means alternating between going fast and hard for a short burst, followed by recovering for a while at a steadier pace and then repeating. 

For instance, you can practically 'sprint' on it for one minute (at around 75% of your maximum speed) and then go steadier at a lighter pace for three minutes (though there are all kinds of different ways to break this up). Alternating this way can help you to reach an 'anaerobic state' where your body will burn far more calories. It can also help to increase your average heart rate and trigger the production of more growth hormone which burns fat and builds muscle.

A cheap and fun training tool that doesn't take up too much room is a hula-hoop (this can be stored behind your sofa), so I recommend using it sometimes to keep things interesting. You won't really be able to do interval training with a hoop. However, as long as you keep up the pace, this will be a great way to get away from the cross trainer occasionally that will also target your abs and obliques (the muscles down the sides of the abs).

Resistance Training

For the resistance training with weights and bodyweight exercises, there are many things that you can do 'on the spot'. Things like isolated bicep curls for instance can be done perching on the edge of your bed, while squats only require enough room to stand. A dumbbell can be tricky to store, but when you're starting out you can use weight plates with handles, kettlebells (which are slightly smaller) or plastic dumbbells that you fill with water.

For most bodyweight exercises though, the minimum requirement for space is enough room on the floor to do press ups and sit ups. If you don't have this then you can still do sit ups on your bed, but for training your pecs you'll want to either try training in the garden or try doing press ups again a wall. Another option is to do dips in the kitchen. You can do this by using two chairs opposite each other - just put a hand on each surface and then lower and raise yourself in a slow and controlled manner in the middle.Perhaps the best investments that you can make for building muscle in a confined room is a pull up bar. This will fit into your door frame for a few dollars and will provide you with a huge range of bodyweight exercises for biceps, lats and abs.


Adam Scotts is a full time medical writer with IHealthNet and provides effective tips to readers on a variety of health issues including cervicogenic headache. He is a fitness lover and an ardent blogger. You can follow him on twitter.com/ihealthnettweet.

Tuesday, 30 April 2013

The Weight Loss Paradox: The Link between Neuroticism and Weight Loss


According to an exploratory study done by Munro et.al, (International Journal of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity), personality maybe a factor as to why a person cannot lose weight. There might be a correlation between personality and weight loss, and this correlation may well dictate the success or failure of the weight loss program. Ironically, the study found that negative behaviour (such as neuroticism) may well affect the success of a diet plan or a weight loss program. Let’s find out how.

Why you are not losing Weight?

Weight loss can be a major challenge for obese individuals. Weight loss regimens usually require strict adherence to a dietary plan or to an exercise routine. This requirement needs immense self-control to resist hunger and the temptation of eating a desired food. Because weight loss regimens require significant levels of self-control, obese individuals, more often than not, fail to comply or adhere to the program. In fact, the percentage for obese individuals who achieved the desired weight after a dietary program is low. More so, even if the individual achieves the desired body weight, the long-term maintenance of the weight also has a low percentage.

The Weight Loss Paradox: The Link between Neuroticism and Weight Loss


What evidence says?

The dilemma on low compliance rates among obese individuals sparked numerous research studies. One of them explored the influence of personality traits in choosing a weight loss program for the patient. The study suggested that personality can be used as a predictor when it comes to tailoring a weight loss program. This is because personality traits (such as neuroticism) can affect an individual’s compliance and since most weight loss programs revolve around compliance, having a weight loss regimen that fits the individual’s personality, behaviour, needs, etc. is suggested to lead to higher compliance rate and ultimate success of the weight loss program.

The study divided the different personality traits into three categories: Neuroticism, conscientiousness, and extraversion. Neuroticism is characterized by negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, self-consciousness, and anger. Conscientiousness on the other hand, is defined by self-discipline, self-efficacy, dutifulness, and discipline. Extraversion involves traits of friendliness, cheerfulness, and gregariousness.

The Paradox

Surprisingly, the study found out that obese individuals with personality traits belonging to the “neuroticism” category had a higher compliance rate and percentage of weight loss. Meanwhile, the facets of personality belonging to conscientiousness didn’t show any significant relationship. The results for neuroticism were surprising and ironic as it is often associated with low self esteem and low productivity and the personality traits under the category of conscientiousness were expected to fare better when it came to commitment activities such as weight loss programs.

Possible Reasons

There might be plenty of reasons why the science (study results) show that neuroticism might indeed affect weight loss significantly. Specific explanations for these correlations may remain elusive, but experts offer certain hypotheses that might help clear out this paradox.

●    Conscientious people focus on long term goals

According to some experts, conscientious people focus more on long term goals and not on immediate issues such as weight. It is also said that these types of people might be concerned with other aspects of their lives (e.g. career, jobs, and education) and therefore pay little attention to weight or weight loss programs.

●    Neurotic individuals appear to respond more to satiety

This is one factor that may affect the success of weight loss among individuals with neuroticism. Unlike their counterparts, these individuals are deemed “unrestrained eaters”, which means they eat in response to hunger and appetite (the opposite trait goes out for conscientious individuals). It is found that unrestrained eaters respond more to satiety. An addition of satiating agents or a diet plan with high satiety but with low fat and carbohydrates is just what they need to eat less; therefore the reduction of their food intake can be radical which leads to a greater weight loss.

The paradoxes we have seen goes to show that weight loss programs are never easy. Still, numerous factors must be considered to ensure their success.





Wednesday, 17 April 2013

Is Gluten Free Diet Right For Me?

Barley, rye, and wheat contain a protein complex called gluten that consists of gliadin and glutelin. Some individuals suffer from an intolerance or a sensitivity to the proteins, which causes a digestive disorder and a variety of symptoms. These people typically adhere to a strict gluten-free diet, substituting other grains and foods in the place of those containing the irritating substance. Though humans have included a variety of grains in their diets for thousands of years, some today believe that modern man has no use for gluten products. This belief gave rise to an ever-increasing opinion that gluten-free diets benefit people overall. 

Is Gluten Free Diet Right For Me?


However, scientific research may suggest otherwise. Research indicates that gluten intolerance or sensitivity increased by fourfold in the last 100 years until around 2004. Surveys suggest that approximately one percent of the population suffers from a problem with gluten. Scientists speculate that many factors contributed to this dilemma. 

Intolerance or sensitivity to the protein complex tends to emerge from one generation to the next through genetics. Methods of preserving and processing foods commonly include using gluten-containing grains as fillers or for creating a more desirable texture. Common foods ranging from candy and processed meat products to various snacks contain the grains, which increase the likelihood of exposure and the potential for developing symptoms in individuals having the disorder.

Gluten-Free Eating and Weight Loss
Public surveys suggest that almost one third of the American population has an interest in the benefits of consuming a gluten-free diet. A major argument used by proponents of the strict dietary regimen by the public revolves around weight loss. Circulating reports recommend that eliminating foods containing the protein complex from an everyday diet enables individuals to lose weight and manage a healthy weight more easily.

Researchers advise that as many calorie rich foods contain gluten, reducing or eliminating these products from daily consumption automatically reduces calories and causes weight loss. On the other hand, experts advise that gluten-free diets also cause dietary deficiencies and may increase fat intake. Baked products labeled as gluten-free for example, often contain higher concentrations of fat. 

Though some claim numerous health benefits experienced by adopting a gluten-free diet, scientific studies correlating this belief do not exist. Researchers discovered that those diagnosed with celiac disease and refraining from gluten consumption often have an elevated body mass index. An increase in whole grain consumption typically reduces body mass index. The usefulness of body mass as an indicator of health is far from certain, however.

Benefits of Gluten
Scientists believe that gluten contributes to blood pressure regulation. The gliadin component of the protein complex reportedly inhibits a powerful vasoconstrictor. Gluten also creates a healthier environment in the digestive tract by encouraging healthy bacterial growth. These microorganisms protect the gastrointestinal system and the body from cancers, cardiovascular diseases and various inflammatory conditions. Individuals requiring gluten-free diets include those diagnosed with celiac disease, Hashimoto’s disease, and certain autoimmune disorders. 

The link between gluten intolerance or sensitivity and these conditions revolves around the irritation of the digestive tract, which causes leaky gut syndrome. Gluten irritates the lining of the intestinal tract. As the membranes between the cells of the digestive tract deteriorate, contents spill into the abdominal cavity, which may affect any of the other body systems and create numerous symptoms. The benefits of a gluten-free diet are far from certain. Talk to your physician about whether eliminating gluten might be helpful for you.


    Hanna Miller is still considering whether she should eliminate gluten from her Houston diet, and is seeking advice from well-trained physicians and nutritionists.

    Wednesday, 3 April 2013

    Eight Diet Tips On Appetite Suppression

    Introduction and background

    Everyone would agree that a body in good shape not only gives you confidence but also helps you achieve what you aspire to do. When it comes to managing weight gain, one may set out to extremes like taking weight loss supplements or putting oneself to starvation.

    One should prefer considering what to eat rather than starving oneself during
    Eight Diet Tips On Appetite Suppression
    dieting. On road to weight loss, the problem faced by almost all dieters at some point is ‘how to curb hunger and suppress appetite’. Before taking into account any appetite suppression tip, a dieter must know why he/she cannot withstand hunger.

    Understanding conspiracy of brain signals and our digestive system that ask for the food and get their wants by allowing us excess calories intake, would really help curb appetite with certain tips. Our brain regulates a number of interacting hormones such as leptin, ghrelin, peptide YY, GLP-1 and others.

    These hormones monitor how much and what someone eats, keeping a check on body weight. Such uninterrupted monitoring of signals to brain drives a number of processes, one most important of which is hunger. Sufficed to say that human hunger is one complicated factor that needs appropriate way to deal with it. Here are eight diet tips than can help suppress appetite.


    Tip # 1 Add Volume to Foods with fiber

    List of appetite suppressing diet tips cannot be complete without bringing up fibers in it. Foods that are rich in fibers make you feel fuller. Higher fibers food like vegetables, whole grains, beans and fruits reduce appetite giving a feeling of satiation for long. The fibers expand in your stomach leaving a reduced amount of space for any other food you take in. Consequently, you will consume less high caloric food and reduce weight.


    Tip # 2 Drink Plenty of Water

    You need water to survive and it is preferable to drink more to get the benefits associated with it. Drinking plenty of water will make you fight hunger pangs. Water has so many benefits and foremost is; contains no calories and regularize hydration content keeping you fit for daily activities. Often times when we think we are hungry, we are just dehydrated. Drinking water helps curb the desire to eat more frequently.


    Tip # 3 Exercise

    There are certain types of exercises that work better than others do at decreasing appetite. Exercise helps by lowering levels of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite in the short term, while raising levels of peptide YY, a hormone that suppresses appetite. The more you exercise, more easily you could tune your appetite signals, which may aid in counteracting them. Nonetheless, a session of intense exercise, can repress hunger by boosting levels of appetite suppressing hormones. Exercise can help you lose weight because it burns calories.


    Tip # 4 Count on Proteins

    Eight Diet Tips On Appetite Suppression
    Proteins rank higher amongst other foods that keep hunger at a bay. You should take proteins with each meal, as they are great in keeping cravings away. 

    They suppress appetite by taking longer time to digest, staying in the alimentary canal and keeping glucose levels within normal limits. Protein source may not necessarily be meat; one can take proteins from lentils and nuts as well. 

    Tip # 5 Delaying response to first appetite trigger


    One important tip to fight cravings back is saying ‘no’ to food when your hunger triggers for a snack or so right after your primary meal. Waiting awhile, before eating second time, will help you eat less or at times prevent you from taking surplus calories at all.

    Tip # 6 Tea or Coffee

    Tea or coffee can also help to restrain from over eating. The caffeine in these products is natural appetite suppressants. It is not advisable to take excess of them, however, a mug or two when needed will help you stay away from the rich calorie foods so you can lose weight.

    Tip # 7 Take Nuts

    Studies show that eating an ounce of nuts such as walnuts, peanuts or almonds eliminate cravings and diminish your appetite by chemical changes in the body. Water should be taken before eating nuts to provide the medium for reaction in stomach.

    Tip # 8 Appetite Suppressants

    There are many diet drugs and supplements available and have been in use for either of two purposes i-e enhancement of metabolism or appetite suppression. The simple fact is that such supplements can help a diet by suppressing appetite. Appetite suppressants promote weight loss by tricking the body into believing that it is not hungry or that it is full. They reduce appetite by increasing serotonin or catecholamine two hormones released from brain that affect mood and appetite.

    Conclusion

    Now armed with the eight appetite suppressing tips, you can fight back your hunger and reduce weight. Although, it is good to stick to natural tips but you can safely harbor to ‘over the counter’ appetite suppressant products to curb hunger.



    The author is a dedicated weight loss enthusiast and blogger who strongly believes in using the best appetite suppressant to achieve the optimal weight loss. An expert in the science of appetite suppressant supplements, his sites feature some of his own personal recommendations. 

    Enhanced by Zemanta

    Tuesday, 2 April 2013

    How A Gluten Free Diet Can Help You Lose Weight

    Gluten free diets have been around for a long time now. It is a great source of relief for those who suffer from celiac disease, or have some form of intolerance to gluten. The symptoms can be rather debilitating for some people from abdominal pain and bloating to extreme diarrhea. So, it leaves very little options, other than living a gluten free life.

    Fortunately, there has been significant research performed, which results in a
    How A Gluten Free Diet Can Help You Lose Weight
    ton of information available to anyone who chooses to go the route of a gluten free lifestyle. This paved the road for those who want to try this diet for other reasons, such as losing weight. But, don’t kid yourself. 

    Even though there is a lot of information and products available to help with gluten free diets, it will still take effort and work on your part to make it work. It’s just like any successful diet out there, as you need to make some changes. So, read on to learn how it can help you reach your goals.

    Don’t Starve Yourself

    First, make sure you don’t stop eating. You actually need calories and food in order to burn calories. That might seem a little contradicting, but it’s true…always has been. If you don’t feed your body, it will assume it is starving and will go into defense mode by not burning calories. It could actually backfire and lead to weight gain. Yikes!

    So, don’t eliminate gluten from your diet by simply eliminating meals. In fact, many people should eat more meals than they currently do. Four smaller meals a day is much better for you than 2 larger meals. Start with a decent breakfast of yogurt and buckwheat, as it will increase your metabolism a lot more than having just a cup of Joe. No, I am not watching you in the morning…it’s just a common occurrence in many households.
    Spread your daily calorie allowance throughout the day by eating something, even if it’s small, every 2 to 3 hours. Set a timer, if it helps.

    Renovate the Pantry and Fridge

    Now, I’m not talking about getting the hammer and drill out, unless you have items in there that have solidified. But, as with any diet, an overhaul is probably in order. Get rid of the foods you won’t be able to eat, and replace it with gluten free items. Take a look at the following list to get an idea of what you should stock up on:
    • Fresh fruits and veggies
    • Seeds, nuts, and legumes
    • Lean meats and fish
    • Low fat dairy products
    • Carb free noodles
    In addition to the list above, replace your current grains in the home with gluten free products such as brown rice, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, and basmati rice. If you look online for various gluten free products, you will also find baking mixes that are available for convenience.

    Calories still Count!

    Just because a product is gluten free, it doesn't mean that it’s calorie free. Those still need to be counted, if you want any chance at losing weight. And, they can add up fast if you aren't careful.

    In order to lose weight effectively and long term, you need to reduce your caloric intake on a reasonable and healthy scale. Speak with your doctor to know how many calories you should be consuming to lose weight and stay healthy at the same time. Also, there are sites online that help you keep track of your daily calorie intake. So, you no longer have to keep a book log lying around, or add them up. A good site will automatically do this for you as you enter the foods…and for free!

    The Trappings of Eating Out

    It can be tricky to know exactly how many calories you are eating when at a restaurant, or if you are consuming gluten. However, it’s not impossible. Choose restaurants that offer nutritional values, as well as gluten free items. If it’s not on the menu, ask. If they are unwilling or unable to provide you with the information, go elsewhere. You can always call ahead, of look for their menu information online. I often look ahead when dining out and know exactly what I’m going to order before I even pull into the parking lot.
    Also, don’t be afraid to make special requests, such as replacing fries for broccoli, or have your fish baked, steamed, or broiled rather than fried. Breading could be a big downfall for both calories and gluten.

    Convenience can be Detrimental

    Avoid prepackaged foods whenever possible. But, if you do choose to have some around the house for convenience, make sure you read the labels to know if there is gluten in it, as well as if it makes sense for calorie intake. Keep in mind; it might not say “gluten” in the ingredient list. Other terms to avoid are “wheat”, “barley”, and “rye”.  You could also find products that have “made in a gluten free facility”, or something similar, which means there would be no cross contamination with other products containing gluten.

    In Closing

    I have shared enough information to help you get started. But, always check with your physician to know what you should be doing when making a big change in your diet. Also, pairing your new diet up with a good workout regimen will create quicker and longer lasting results.



    Rick Mercado has found success in his early 30’s as an online marketer and freelance writer. He enjoys working from home, or can be found at the local coffee house, often researching on his laptop for future projects. He was visiting www.biogirlhealth.com when he chose to write his latest series on gluten free living. Rick is an outdoor enthusiast with hiking and kayaking in his hometown area of Nova Scotia. He is married, and dreams of becoming a helicopter pilot someday.

    Thursday, 14 February 2013

    Fast-Track Weightloss, Rapid Results

    Most people interpret the idea of getting skinny quickly by having an extreme diet or fad diet wherein they skip eating and take off any foods which they think can make fat. In truth, extreme diets are not good for the health. There are actually a lot of nutrients and minerals that may be obtained from the foods that a person unknowingly eliminates in an extreme diet. 

    The good way to get skinny fast is actually achieved by boosting up the body’s metabolism. When the body has good metabolism, it is easy to burn the calories that come from every food than allowing it to be stored in the body as fats; thus,  creating the ugly love handles as days go by.

    Fast-Track Weightloss, Rapid Results


    The Right Way to Get Skinny
    To increase the body’s metabolism all one has to do is to eat a complete meal every day. As most people believed that eating meals can make someone fat, there is actually no truth to it. In fact, most people who ate a complete meal are the ones who got skinny as fast as 10 days than those who skipped the meal. This is because all the nutrients that can increase body metabolism are actually present on the foods people are eating. 

    Thus, it is okay to take as much 6 meals a day as long as it is in an appropriate serving. To boost up the body metabolism, take in lean protein, complex carbohydrates and less on mono- unsaturated fats which actually cause fats to store in the body. The mono-unsaturated can actually be seen frozen whenever foods are placed inside the refrigerator temperature.

    The Difference between Bad and Good Skinny Body
    Being skinny always makes a person looks good, even healthier and sexier that is why most people are rushing their way towards getting slim. However, there is actually a difference between good and bad skinny body. It must be noticed that a person who is getting slim from a really fat body forms sagging and dull skin while others have firm and moisture rich skin. This difference is actually brought by the way on how to get skinny fast. 

    A person will have sagging and dry skin by depending only on dietary supplement and eliminating necessary foods that may be a good source of vitamins and minerals without even maintaining a healthy and proper exercise. Due to stress and the lack of proper nutrients as well as suitable body-shaping methods, the body can become dull and unhealthily sagging. Whereas if the person is following the healthy way of getting skinny fast, a person will be able to retain beauty and fitness despite a willowy body.

    Get Skinny Faster in a Healthy Way
    The best way on how to get skinny fast is through the healthy way and that is about increasing the body metabolism instead of eliminating some foods which may are rich in vitamins and minerals needed by the body to remain glowing, while on the way to getting skinny. By this, it is also good to follow health advice from personal health and fitness advisor to know what type of exercise and the appropriate serving of meal for safety and more successful results. Aside from this, increasing body metabolism should always go along with the spirit to get skinny fast and everything would surely be effective



    Sarah is a mom of 2 children who had an issue of pregnancy weight, that led her to exploring weight loss topic a lot. After getting rid of extra weight, she's passionately shares her experience and writes about weight loss tips, diet programs, slimming pills and other products for several weight loss sites, such as dietslimmingpills.org.uk

    Wednesday, 30 January 2013

    Five Things Dieters Do Wrong During Weight Loss

    Ninety percent of all "successful" dieters fail to keep weight loss off during the first year.  Half of the remaining ten percent don't make it to the end of the second year without gaining the weight back.  Those statistics are dismal.  Why are people so bad at dieting?  It is more complicated than merely possessing strong will power.  Here is a list of five things many dieters do wrong:

    Five Things Dieters Do Wrong During Weight Loss


    Skipping meals (including breakfast) - 
    the act of digestion burns lots of calories but more importantly eating three regular meals will help boost your metabolism.  I know some people who eat dinner at 6 PM, skip breakfast the next morning and eat lunch at noon.  Effectively fasting for 18 hours!  The is bad for two reasons: during fasting times our body gets a little scared it may not eat anytime soon (an evolutionary protection mechanism against starvation) and stores extra fat; the other reason its bad is because we usually overeat after a fast.  During the month of Ramadan, where Muslims fast from sunup to sundown, many people gain weight.

    Watching TV while eating - This is called mindless eating.  Lots of            studies have been done showing people will eat up to 60% more while watching TV then if they dined without one.  Look at your food and enjoy every bite.

    Eating at restaurants or ordering take out - I don't care how healthy you think the food is, it’s probably not.  Restaurants are in the business of making money and producing food that tastes good.  We wouldn't go back if it were bad.  Chefs know salt, fat and sugar enhances the taste of virtually any meal and most don't skimp on these ingredients.   Are you getting an egg white omelet at the deli?  How much butter (or bacon fat) was on that grill, how about the salt?

    Buying low fat food - Typically low fat foods are made to taste better by adding more sugar and salt.  I've always stated, “low-fat equals high sugar”.   This added sugar raises your insulin level and promotes fat storage.  Additionally, studies show eating high fat foods sate eaters longer and overtime decreases their weight.

    Drinking diet sodas and not enough water – Research show people who drink diet soda gain more weight than their regular soda drinking counterparts.  Scientists surmise diet soda tricks the body into thinking it’s getting calories and when it can’t find the extra energy it releases hormones to increase appetite.  In any event, you should only be drinking water, unsweetened tea, coffee and the occasional glass of wine.   Your liver depends on water for fat metabolism.  If it’s slightly dehydrated it does not work as well and fat breakdown slows down to a crawl.   Plus consuming cold water burns calories – not much but every little bit adds up.
    It is possible to lose weight and keep it off.  For most people it takes a lot of patience and a honest lifestyle change.  If you believe you can do it, you’re right.  If you believe you can’t do it, you’re right too.  Which belief do you want to invest in?



    Doug Joachim is a leading personal trainer NYC with over 17 years experience.

    Saturday, 26 January 2013

    How To Lose Your Love Handles - Weightloss

    Love handles are very unattractive and can be embarrassing for anyone. Nobody likes the look of excess ‘flab’ on their body, but it seems like a lot of people simply don’t know how to get rid of the unpleasant fat build up.

    What is the easiest way to get rid of love handles?

    How To Lose Your Love Handles - Weightloss
    Well, love handles are basically the result of excess body fat being accumulated in and around the body. So, the only way to get rid of them is to decrease the fatty tissue that has been accumulated. There are tons of ways to get rid of love handles, but the truth is that many of the promised methods just aren't that effective. 

    A lot of people think that just doing sit ups will get rid of the excess fat build up, but exercising a single body part will not do the trick. Sit ups will only improve the tone of your abs, but not get rid of love handles. 

    People tend to think that if they eat less frequently that the love handles will simply melt away. This is actually counterproductive because when you lower your food intake, your body believes that food is scarce and will actually store more fat. The most important thing is to eat the right foods, rather than focusing of the amount of food that you are eating.There’s a ton of products and supplements on the market that claim to have an easy solution to love handles, but this is often just ‘hype’. These products are typically expensive, ineffective and sometimes even dangerous.

    The best way to lose those love handles is to eat a nutritious and well-rounded diet. Eating around five to six times a day is recommended to prevent the body to from feeling starved. These shouldn't be very large meals, but smaller meals that allow your body to believe that there’s no shortage of food. This is going to promote your body to lose some of the excess fat build up. Practice a regular workout routine. 

    How To Lose Your Love Handles - Weightloss
    You’re not going to want to be doing heavy lifting or muscle building routines, but rather aerobic exercises and cardio. Using a treadmill is one of the best ways to burn off love handles. 

    You can find used treadmills for sale for pretty cheap if you look around. Working out four to six times a week is recommended and will yield the best results. Remember to be persistent and patient, your goals can only come with time. 





    This article was written by Gymkit UK; Europe's leading suppliers of commercial gym equipment for sale; with over 5000 machines in stock, including:Exercise Bikes, Treadmills, Rowing Machines, Free Weights and more

    Sunday, 13 January 2013

    5 iPhone Apps That Help You to Lose Weight


    You have possibly heard this phrase "there's an app for everything." For any task that one can imagine, the statement always proves true. You can have access to videos of workouts, virtual personal trainers, calorie logs or any other type of helpful features which will help you to reach your goals in weight loss. Check these apps and then settle on one that can get you closer to your target weight.

    weight loss_iphone weight loss apps_calories_obesity


    Food Scanner -
    This app utilizes the camera of your iPhone in scanning UPC bar codes on the food which you eat during the day. It registers calories automatically alongside other nutrition-based information, including every item that you feed on, and will log them. 

    Therefore, you will be capable of keeping a running count. It is the simplest and fastest way of keeping track of the calories. In case the scanner fails to work, you have an option of typing and searching for foods. There is an option of entering new foods yourself and even upload photos plus bar codes.

    Calorie Counter and Diet -
    This diet app supplies its users with a calorie counter that is easy to use. Its database has 1.1 million foods; it syncs with the Internet in a full way. This offers you a chance of accessing your information through a phone or a computer. Those with no access to the internet have found this app terrific due to the apps availability offline. It is possible to be connected to friends and other members for encouragement and motivation. There are exercise plans supplied. Have a closer look at the nutritional summary then update your measurement and weight every night.

    Fitness Buddy -
    With more than 1,700 exercises within the database, the app claims that several individuals give up their different gym memberships. For all major equipment, an exercise is provided. You can choose a workout based on the particular body area you wish to target like the arms, back or core. There are graphs for tracking the progress and to encourage motivation.

    Fat Secret -
    The app is a calorie counter but provides few unique features. An exercise and food diary will be supplied for keeping track of the eaten and burnt calories. A diet calendar is also available. You can use it to watch the fluctuation of the progress with time. Use the app's journal part to enter your feelings and thought so as to have a record of the emotional journey associated with weight loss along with physical transformation. A large database consisting of ideas and recipes for the meals is also offered.

    Nike + GPS -
    Map the runs then keep track of any progress with this app. The sensor is not a necessity while tracking workouts with the iPhone held in your hands. There is an option of designating your favorite song as the power song. If you find yourself losing energy and wishing to quit, hit the power song button to obtain instant revitalization. Share the run with friends to gain encouragement or join a Nike tag game to race.


    This post has been written by Adam Jones. He is a sports and fitness expert. He recommends calcet citrate creamy bites as a great source of calcium and multivitamins.

    Tuesday, 8 January 2013

    Weight Loss Sabotage: Tips to Control Emotional Eating


    Are you having a difficult time with emotional eating? Chewing down when you feel down, or anxious, or worried, is a problem which plagues most people and if you are trying to lose weight, this can be a major stumbling block. Unfortunately, food is a major source of comfort and a way to quell negative emotions; combine this tendency along with little physical activity and you have the perfect recipe for obesity. 

    You can overcome emotional eating but you need to learn how to control your emotions. When you can effectively observe what is happening, without acting on your emotions, you will be able to see what is really going on and what you can do about it. You can watch the feelings, or emotional triggers, that lead to emotional eating and then you can release them, without acting on them.

    Weight Loss Sabotage: Tips to Control Emotional Eating _weight loss_obesity


    Emotional eating is a problem for many because few people are actually aware of their feelings. Almost all of us live a reactive life, feeling an emotion and reacting quickly, to try to cover up or bury the emotion—often times, eating is a primary strategy. This only makes the emotions stronger, as whatever you bury only grows bigger and bigger, until it eventually either creates an emotional outburst or manifests as illness in some form.

    Learn to become aware of your feelings and you can see the beginnings of emotional eating. You can watch the despair, or anger, or loneliness, and sit with it, and let it go, instead of acting on these low energy feelings in the form of overeating. This is terribly uncomfortable at times, but it really is the quickest path to purifying your mind and ceasing emotional eating quickly. Simply value your overall health and well being more than you value a quick fix, or quick high, and you will learn how to sit with these difficult feelings for your betterment. I would like to share some tips that have worked for me personally in hopes they will work for you as well.


    Meditate Frequently to Become More Aware of Your Feelings

    Meditation helps you to become aware of your feelings so you can become an observer of your thoughts. As you become a watcher of your thoughts you can allow an impulse to arise, observe it and release it, without acting upon it; by becoming more aware of the fleeting nature of your thoughts and feelings, you may not feel as compelled to do something –like eating—to make them go away the second you start to experience them. Meditation simply makes you more aware of what happens in your mind, and by becoming more aware of your emotional eating habits you can spot the triggers and release them. Commit to meditating for at least 10 minutes each day. Find a quiet spot, relax your body and still your mind. Slow down and calm down. Focus your attention on your breathing and when your focus moves to a memory, or thought, or feeling, or sensation, note the object of your attention and move your focus gently back to your breathing.


    Exercise Frequently to Create an Outlet for Your Emotions

    So much emotional eating is rooted in stress, or worry or anxiety. Or you might feel empty, and eating seems to temporarily fill the void. If you can exercise persistently you will create an effective outlet through which you can channel your emotions. Exercising for at least 30 minutes each day can help you release endorphins, boosts your mood, and you will quickly see that running or jogging is the ultimate stress buster. Go outside and get busy! Exercise each day and stop turning to food as a temporary cure for your emotions. Exercisingis fun and easy. You need not buy a gym membership to pump iron for hours on end. You can simply go for a walk, or maybe you can hit the stairs at the local sports field, to get a calorie burning workout while giving yourself an emotional boost.


    Tie Your Life to Some Higher Purpose

    If you can tie your life to something bigger than yourself you are less likely to engage in self destructive habits, and emotional eating is one of these habits. Start a business, volunteer, take up a hobby that you feel passionate about. Devote yourself entirely to your job, adopting a servant’s mindset. If you simply help more people on a persistent basis you will be less likely to turn inward and hurt yourself with emotional eating. You will be more balanced, more poised and you will feel better about yourself, and when you love yourself more you will not intentionally do things to hurt yourself. Be disciplined and follow these tips on a daily basis so you can kill the habit of emotional eating.


    Kelli Cooper is a freelance writer who specializes in health and wellness content; she especially enjoys writing about how to eat healthier. 

    Monday, 31 December 2012

    Top Supplements To Get You In Shape For Summer

    Many people gain weight during the holidays. If you are one of those people, then you will be happy to know that there are a number of supplements that can help you get back in shape for the summer. Below are some supplements that will help you get the body that you want:

    bodybuilder_bodybuilder_whey_protein_fibre_supplements


    Calcium

    Calcium is a nutrient that helps support bone health. Researchers have found that eating three servings of low-fat, calcium-rich dairy foods can help promote weight loss. There was another study done on two groups of women. One group took a 1,000 mg calcium supplement every day. Both groups followed similar diets. The results of the study showed that the women who took a calcium supplement every day lost more body fat and weight. Experts believe that calcium helps encourage the breakdown of fat in the body.

    Fibre

    Fibre is a nutrient that is lacking in many people’s diets. The recommended daily intake is 25 to 30 mg per day, but some people are only getting 10 or 11 grams per day. Fibre helps keep you feeling full so that you do not overeat during the day. You can very easily get the recommended amount of fibre by eating vegetables and whole grains. However, if you still have trouble getting adequate amounts of this nutrient, then taking a daily supplement can be very helpful.

    There was a study done back in 2010 that showed people who take a fibre supplement before a meal consume less food. Not only does fiber help you lose weight, but it also helps reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Furthermore, it has been shown to potentially reduce the risk of heart disease.

    Green Tea Extract

    Green tea extract contains caffeine, cathecins and thiamine. All of those ingredients have been shown to boost metabolism. Green tea extract can also suppress appetite and reduce belly fat. Additionally, green tea extract can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

    Acai Berry Supplements

    Acai berry is a fruit that grows on the Acai palm trees. An Acai berry supplements can boost metabolism and burn body fat. It can also increase your energy levels so that you have more energy to exercise. Not only are Acai berry supplements great for helping you lose weight, but they can also help improve your overall health. Acai berry has been shown to fight inflammation, which is the root cause of a number of health problems. It can also boost the immune system, promote restful sleep and reduce the risk of heart disease.

    Whey Protein

    Many people use whey protein to help them build muscle, but this supplement can also help promote weight loss. Whey protein helps suppress appetite. It also helps reduce body fat.



    Carol Graham is a stay at home mum of 3 young boys. With 3 children, Carol is constantly browsing discount drug catalogue to find the best deal on pharmaceuticals available.

    Wednesday, 26 December 2012

    Great Abs Are Made In The Kitchen

    Exercise and eating healthy are crucial to losing weight. But having killer abdominals is a direct result of your diet. A controlled diet high in whole grains, lean protein, fruits and vegetables determines how toned your abs are. The most common myth associated with great abs is that crunches will create the "six-pack". 

    However, abs have more to do with the absence of belly fat than with well-developed stomach muscles. Truth is, everyone has six-pack abs hiding under his or her belly fat, just dying to get out. And nothing says fitness prowess like a strong, toned core. Here's how you can achieve killer abs:
    Great Abs Are Made In The Kitchen


    Reduce Calories

    To have killer abs your must get rid of excess fat. You can do this by burning more calories than you take in. While willpower is not always easy to maintain, tracking your meals daily is very manageable. 

    I use a calorie counter and diet tracker app called MyFitnessPal. It sets goals for you based on your daily exercise routine (or lack there of). If you can cut your calorie intake by 250-500 calories per day, this will help promote gradual fat loss and help you accomplish your goal of six-pack abs.


    Eat Lean Protein

    Lean protein is crucial for building muscle and muscle burns fat. It also provides you with a sense of satiety and can help with overeating. It’s important to eat protein in every meal and snack of the day. Great sources of protein are fish, white-meat chicken and turkey, egg whites, low-fat diary and legumes.


    Complex Carbs

    Nothing hides abs faster than complex carbohydrates. And it takes an extremely dedicated dieter to cut out carbs completely. I suggest quality carb consumption and sticking to whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Carbs give you energy. Therefore, you should only eat them when energy is required—like before a big work out.


    Cut Out Sweets

    Sweets are the number one source of calories in adults ages 19 and up. This includes all foods that have a high sugar content such as cookies, candy and cake. Sweets have a significant amount of calories with little to no nutritional value. Try to replace sweets with fresh or dried fruit. This will help to elminate belly fat.


    Eat Six Meals A Day

    To eat better for healthy abs, it’s crucial to have six small means throughout the day. Eating six meals a day helps to regulate blood sugar, control cravings and your keep hunger at bay. As long as you can choose the right foods and watch your portion sizes, having a variety of snacks throughout the day can actually help you lose weight and reveal those killer abs.


    Healthy Fats

    Now, contrary to popular belief, not all fats are bad for you. I said it. In all honesty, plant-based fats and Omega 3 fats are essential to good health. These healthy fats include extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, nuts and coconuts. Fats help to absorb nutrients and should be eaten on a daily basis.


    Drink Water

    Drinking water before each meal has been shown to help promote weight loss. Water will help you feel fuller sooner and feel satisfied eating less calories. Plus, it’s free of sugar and empty calories that most soft drinks and fruit juices contain. Water also helps with muscle tone by assisting muscles in their ability to contract. Drink up!


    Emily Carmichael is a wellness and weight loss specialist. In addition to helping her clients get fit, she is training to be a body builder. She takes all-natural hormone supplements to aid in her weight training.

    Blog Design By Spice Up Your Blog