What Are the CBD Health Benefits in Treating Cancer?

In the United States, more than 1.7 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year. These patients suffer from a lot of depression, anxiety, and fear.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2kNVHMR

Being Healthy: Easier Said Than Done!

Do these 5 things to be at your best health. Do them all, don't just do 1 or 2... It does't work that way. Not only that, you need to do them regularly and also avoid the harmful things out there!

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2NVtzmY

Getting and Staying Connected Is Powerful

Here are a few tips for getting and staying connected to enrich your body and your soul plus these can provide a tremendous surge in brain stimulation. First, nurture existing relationships as you cultivate new ones. You have to be a friend to have a friend so schedule time and energy to share with others.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/306TcE1

T-Ball Should Consider These 4 Changes!

Little League baseball and softball coaches usually run adequate but inefficient batting practice sessions. Learn to increase the repetitions of everyone on the team.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2PPE5Po

5 Common Causes of Nausea

Nausea can occur in anyone once in a while. The most common causes of nausea include, anxiety, food poisoning, hangover, overeating and pregnancy. Read this article to learn how to handle nausea and how to prevent it.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2zNX5CQ

How Long Does Marijuana Stay In Your Body?

Ever wondered how long marijuana stays in your blood? How long does marijuana stay in your system? It cannot be denied that the effects of weed produce a high that you can feel for a short time.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2zKrBxF

13 Best Fall Superfoods for Weight Loss

What is a superfood anyway?

“Fruits and vegetables are protective to health as they’re helpful at reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and some cancers. They’re also low in calories, which helps prevent obesity,” says Isabel Maples, RDN, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. While the term “superfood” doesn’t have an exact definition, Maples says dietitians would say it means nutrient-packed—and lots of fall produce fits that description. You could also count these foods as functional, she says, meaning there’s science behind the fact that they’re better for your body, offering vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. “In addition, if the food you eat is flavorful and satisfying, there is a good chance you will eat less and consume fewer calories, too,” she adds. And that’s the key to dropping pounds.

Check out this list of fall superfoods for weight loss so you know what to turn to when you want a satisfying dish featuring new flavors, with few calories and plenty of nutrients. And check out this list to find out the in-season fruits and veggies for every month of the year.

The post 13 Best Fall Superfoods for Weight Loss appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2KZb2Eu

Getting and Maintaining a Healthy Brain

Getting and keeping a healthy brain is vital to longevity and good living. Here are some simple checks to ensure that your brain is operating at its best.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2ZsKXlj

7 Things That Could Happen If You Stop Eating Artificial Sweeteners

You might bust a weight loss plateau

It’s a common scenario: To stay full throughout the day but keep calories low, many people will sip five or six diet sodas and eat their only meal at dinner, explains Caroline Cederquist, MD, a metabolism and weight loss expert and founder of bistroMD. And even if that meal isn’t huge (so their total daily calorie intake is not high), they find they still can’t lose weight. The problem may be all those sugar substitutes. “Artificial sweeteners consumed alone, without food, can trigger the release of insulin, because the body is expecting something sweet,” Cederquist explains. “Insulin is a hormone that helps with the storage of fat.” Eat regular meals to avoid a spike in insulin and you could start seeing excess pounds come off. These are the 10 biggest food myths you need to stop believing.

The post 7 Things That Could Happen If You Stop Eating Artificial Sweeteners appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2xBXklw

12 High-Protein, Low-Carb Foods to Help You Lose Weight

The benefits of high-protein, low carb foods

High-protein, low-carb foods have become popular, thanks to trendy diets like ketogenic, paleo, and Atkin’s. And the reason why this type of diet—eating foods higher in one macronutrient and lower in another—works for some people comes down to the fullness factor.

“Typically, protein-rich foods take longer to digest,” says Kristen Smith, RD, an Atlanta-based dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “So increasing your consumption of protein-rich foods, increases satiety, and can, therefore, aid in weight-loss because you can become more satisfied by eating less food.” Also, by eating fewer carbs, your body can learn to burn more fat as fuel, while excessive carb intake can cause your body to store more fat, Smith explains. Start your day with these high-protein breakfasts to help you lose weight.

Research also shows that a low-carb diet can help increase your daily energy expenditure (or calories burned) when looking to maintain weight loss. And studies back up the fact that eating plans high in protein can increase satiety and help control the number on the scale.

But two important caveats come up when you turn mostly to high-protein, low-carb foods. For starters, you still need to pay attention to saturated fat—too much is bad for heart health—and those with kidney disease should probably avoid this plan, Smith says.

Also, without many carbs in your diet, you might start craving ingredients like pasta, bread, and potatoes. “If you follow a diet and it provides results but leaves you feeling unsatisfied or craving more, then it might not be the diet for you,” says Angel Planells RDN, a Seattle-based spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. In other words, make sure you stick to a diet plan that works for you, featuring foods that leave you satisfied, not deprived. For specific ingredient suggestions, we rounded up the high-protein, low-carb foods to add to your meal plan, according to Planells and Smith.

The post 12 High-Protein, Low-Carb Foods to Help You Lose Weight appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2zdqmXv

What 5 Years of Bodybuilding Taught Me About Tackling Mondays

It's not what it is in the working world, that's for sure. It's not the day where everyone drags their feet into the office, bags under their eyes. It's not the day people sit in front of their computers and start complaining about what a long week it's going to be.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/31p0qE9

2 Weeks Diet Plan

Statistics show that approximately 45 million Americans go on a diet each year. In fact, most of them make an average of four to six dieting attempts annually. This implies that their first three dieting trials often fail. Ideally, dieting can be a puzzling process. It can take a toll on your self-esteem. This is why most people quickly get demotivated and end up ditching dieting for good. If you're currently battling with dieting and about to throw in the towel, then maybe there are some things you're overlooking. Here are the top four reasons why most dieting attempts fail time and again.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2yLlrN9

How Hyperhidrosis Is Cured. 3 Tips To Eliminate Excessive Sweating Naturally

The first thing to understand is that hyperhidrosis or sweating is a condition in which a person sweats too much and suddenly. People with hyperhidrosis seem to have overactive sweat glands.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2OOLiys

Good,, Bad, and Trans Fats and the Health Risk They Pose

What many don't realise is that fats are essential for good health. The brain, for instance, is contains fat, but it is the good one and not that which can kill you. As people age they become more susceptible to weight gain and the large stomachs seen in many.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2ZL2fes

This is What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Tea Every Day

If you’re sipping a cup of tea while reading this, you’re supporting just about every organ in your body. Unsweetened tea is rich in antioxidants, which prevent chronic diseases and help repair cells in the body. “Tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, which contains antioxidants known as catechins, most importantly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG),” says Anthony Kouri, MD, an orthopedic surgeon in Toledo, Ohio. “These eliminate free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation.”

So pinkies up; it’s time to learn about the amazing benefits (and just a few risks) of drinking tea.

Your risk of certain cancers goes down

The antioxidants and compounds found in tea have been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers. “Beneficial effects have been found in skin, prostate, lung, and breast cancers,” says Uma Naidoo, MD, Director of Nutritional and Lifestyle Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital and Faculty at Harvard Medical School. “Different types of tea impact different cancers.” Drinking tea is just one of the simple ways you can prevent cancer.

Your skin will be healthier

Drinking black tea regularly can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer. Interestingly, how you prepare it makes a difference. “Hot black tea is helpful for squamous carcinoma of the skin,” says Dr. Naidoo. Hot tea has been found to be more beneficial than the iced alternative and brewing time matters.

Your risk of diabetes decreases

Drinking black tea every day can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by helping to control your blood sugar after meals. According to a study in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, black tea can lower your blood sugar and after eating foods containing sucrose. If you’re ready to do more, don’t miss these 71 easy ways to prevent type 2 diabetes.

Your teeth will be stronger

While sipping tea throughout the day could slightly stain your teeth, it may be worth it. According to a study in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, green tea has an antibacterial effect that could reduce cavity-forming bacteria in your mouth. Drinking green tea every day could also make cavities less severe.

Your heart will thank you

Tea’s antiinflammatory properties can keep your blood vessels relaxed and clear, putting less stress on your heart. “Catechins reduce inflammation and thus inhibit plaque formation in vital arteries,” says Dr. Kouri. Dr. Naidoo recommends drinking three cups of black tea per day to achieve the heart benefits.

Your risk of Alzheimer’s disease could decrease

The thought of you or a loved one being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is frightening. It’s important to know the early warning signs and do what you can to prevent it. “Green tea can help you develop resistance against stress, and potentially Alzheimer’s disease,” says Dr. Naidoo. “The polyphenols protect cells from damage.”

Your sleep could improve

If you spend your nights tossing and turning, try winding down with a cup of tea before bed. “East-Asian medicinal tea can improve insomnia,” says Dr. Naidoo. According to a study in Integrative Medicine Research, drinking tea can help improve sleep and quality of life in those with mild-to-moderate insomnia.

Your attention span may improve

The caffeine in tea can improve your attention and alertness. “Theanine is an amino acid that is virtually unique to tea (apart from the fungus Bay bolete),” explains Dr. Naidoo. “It may also improve attention by relaxing the brain, but stimulating it when it is time to focus.” If you ever find yourself having difficulty with focus or concentration, try steeping a warm cup of tea just before it’s time to work or consider these other reasons you may not be able to focus.

Your metabolism speeds up

Ready to speed up your metabolism while sitting at your kitchen counter? “The caffeine in tea helps to improve mental acuity as well as increase metabolism and fat burning (up to 100 calories per day),” says Dr. Kouri. Just be sure you’re not overdoing it in the caffeine department. One cup of green tea contains about 40 milligrams of caffeine, and Dr. Kouri recommends limiting your daily caffeine intake to no more than 300 to 400 milligrams.

You may not absorb enough iron

The catechins in tea can alter your body’s ability to absorb iron. This means that even if you eat enough high-iron foods, you won’t get the benefits and could become anemic. “Though most healthy people will not be affected by this, those who have iron deficiency or anemia should abstain from large amounts of green tea,” recommends Dr. Kouri. This includes children, pregnant women, and anyone with a history of kidney disease.

You could be at higher risk of bleeding

Drinking a large amount of tea every day could put you at risk for bleeding from a minor cut or bump. “It makes you more prone to bruising, explains Michelle Lee, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California. “I require all my patients to stop drinking tea two to three weeks before surgery.”

Your medication may not work

While the benefits of tea seem unlimited, talk with your doctor and pharmacist before brewing a pot every day. “Catechins can interfere with some heart and blood pressure medications,” warns Dr. Kouri. “It is important to discuss this with your doctor.”

How much tea should I drink?

Studies vary on how many cups of tea to drink per day. You want to get the most benefits without overdoing the caffeine. “To get the maximum health benefits from green tea, it is most effective to drink three to five cups of green tea per day,” recommends Dr. Kouri.

Which tea is the healthiest?

When choosing a tea, make sure it is unsweetened. Even if some flavored teas contain no calories, they could still have artificial sweeteners and preservatives. Opt for making your own tea as opposed to buying it already prepared. “The more tea leaves are processed, the less effective the catechins become, explains Dr. Kouri. “Green tea is minimally processed and has the greatest health benefits of the available teas.”

Pour a cup today

While you can always have too much of a good thing, tea is a healthy choice for the vast majority of healthy adults. “In general, those who drink green tea regularly are healthier than those who do not,” says Dr. Kouri. “It is very safe to drink and only has drawbacks when consumed in very large quantities.” So claim those health benefits and get steeping today. Read on to find out what happens to your body when you drink coffee regularly.

The post This is What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Tea Every Day appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/33eUQpC

Some Reasons Why Sugarcane Juice Could Be Your Ideal Summer Drink

Sugarcane Juice is one of the most refreshing summer drinks that give great relief from the hot summers. The drink is popular among kids as well as youngsters due to its delicious taste and nutritional qualities that treat your taste buds and keep your body healthy and hydrated all day long. It not only quenches your thirst but also boosts up the energy level in your body. It brings a number of health benefits to you and, you should add this drink to your diet.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YwrmnT

How Senior Living Communities Keep Older Adults Healthier?

Out of prolonged loneliness, seniors tend to make a move to an assisted living center. There are a lot of reasons attached to this shift, the first one being they have more opportunities for staying mentally, physically and emotionally connected and that helps to keep health problems at bay.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2SYefGJ

How to Pick the Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Running is an unfathomable method to remain solid and has a not insignificant rundown of advantages. However, numerous sprinters confront issues because of despicable footwear. If you are flat footed it's important to get running shoes for flat feet to maintain a strategic distance from damage and keep you on track!

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YEHmUK

Environmental Factors for Hair Loss

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS OF HAIR LOSS Hair loss - a common problem which adversely impacts the self-esteem of a number of individuals all over the world. While many people blame the condition entirely on genetics, it is important to know that there are many other factors which contribute to both female and male pattern baldness. There are numerous individuals know about the way that our encompassing condition can assume a key part in causing male pattern baldness.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2SYYkYE

The Cost Of Care: How AI Is Revolutionizing Healthcare And Driving Down Prices

The cost of healthcare is once again at the center of a national debate. With premiums rising, the baby boomers aging, and diabetes, the most expensive disease in the world, affecting 10% of the US population, the rising cost of healthcare in America is an issue that affects all of us. In the past, the implementation of new and emerging technologies in healthcare has contributed to the climbing costs. In contrast, the application of AI into healthcare is promising to drive those costs down.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YCio8z

Bio-Tensegerity And Your Body

We are balanced through tension and compression, not stacked together like a bunch of blocks. Learn to train the system, not by focusing on individual blocks.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2SZKrJC

Use Fear and Grow!

Everyone experiences fear from time to time but you can turn fear into a wonderful growth opportunity. Here's how...

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2T2e25p

What Is Anxiety and Tips That Will Help

Millions suffer from anxiety every day and they suffer needlessly. Find relief from anxiety from the following words.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YvUAmM

FAQs and Buying Guide of Blackhead Removal Mask

If you noticed a few blackheads popping up here and there, it may be time to nip the problem in the bud and get yourself a mask specifically made to remove blackheads. There are many reasons for the new onset of blackheads on your complexion. Whether blackheads on your face have been around for quite some time or are a new occurrence, don't panic. All you need to do is to find the perfect remedy, which happens to be a blackhead removal mask.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2SYUOgU

3 Reasons to Stop Eating Sugar

Many people do not realize how dangerous and addictive sugar can be. Here are 3 top reasons why you should let go of sugar as fast as you can.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YA6NGT

An Easy Way to Get Kissable Lips With Lip Fillers

You no longer need a surgery to have kissable lips. Lip fillers London treatment can give you sensual, plump and kissable lips easily and quickly.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2SZKrt6

Surviving Bone Surgeries

I have been through four major bone surgeries in the last two years. Unless anyone has experienced surgery, you may not know what to expect before or after the surgery. In this article, I intend to give as much personal experience in hopes to help anyone else who may soon be experiencing surgery and even perhaps helping others to see what their loved ones will be experiencing. I pray this may help to ease the heart and mind of others.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2T2EYSr

Fecal Incontinence: How to Avoid a Shitty Trip

People with Crohn's Disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or diarrhea are at a disadvantage if they are out of range of a toilet. Other causes of bowel incontinence may result from childbirth or surgery that damages the required control nerves or muscles.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YyKGAF

Diet or Exercise: The Final Verdict on Which Is Better for Weight Loss

You’ve heard it over and over again: Diet and exercise are the keys to a healthy weight. As it turns out, though, one is far more important than the other. If you want to drop pounds, focusing on food is your best bet. It’s also one of the things doctors wish you knew about losing weight.

Diet is more important for weight loss

Despite the constant message to burn fat and calories away at the gym, people who only change their diets lose more weight than those who only increase physical activity, according to a report in the journal Systematic Reviews. In fact, another study in the journal PeerJ found that over three years, people who got 30 minutes or more of physical activity a day actually had higher rates of weight gain than those who exercised less. So why isn’t gym time the miracle weight-loss machine we’ve been led to believe?

Basically, it’s way easier to avoid calories in the first place than to try to burn them off, says registered dietitian nutritionist Marjorie Nolan Cohn, MS, RDN, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Working off a 100-calorie cookie is one thing, but it would take hours at the gym to negate 1,200 calories from a burger and fries. “You can’t exercise off a weekend of terrible eating,” says Nolan Cohn. Committing to a 30-minute workout program? Easy enough. Turning your entire eating plan on its head? Not so much. It is easier to start if you try these tiny diet changes that can help you lose weight.

You can’t out-exercise a poor diet

If you don’t pay attention to portion sizes, you might eat more after you start a new workout routine, says Nolan Cohn. Not only will your appetite increase naturally from the energy burn, but you might also slack off on healthy food choices. “There’s this idea that you’ve earned it to eat something because you worked out,” says Nolan Cohn. “It winds up holding people back.” Half an hour on the treadmill might blast away 300 calories, but just one slice of cake could totally negate that hard work—and then some. This energy to calorie ratio is partly why you can flatten your belly without doing a single crunch.

You might have heard that muscle weighs more than fat. That’s true, but it doesn’t mean you should claim the bigger number on the scale is all muscle. “That’s a few pounds, not 20 or 30 pounds,” says Nolan Cohn. “It’s not an excuse for the weight gain.” If you’ve been exercising without results, your diet is probably to blame.

The most benefits come from both diet and exercise

Still, don’t cancel your gym membership. A systematic review of studies found that pairing diet with exercise was even more successful for weight-loss than diet or exercise alone. Research shows focusing on both led to better long-term results, or sticking healthy habits, which explains why people who double up are more likely to maintain weight loss after one year. And another study found that almost 40 percent of people who managed their weight loss after four years were still doing 150 minutes of exercise per week.

Plus, exercise doesn’t just burn calories and build muscles—it boosts endorphins too, says Nolan Cohn. “It improves feelings of positivity or accomplishment,” she says. “When you combine those forces [of diet and exercise], it reinforces losing the weight and keeping it off.” Weight maintenance is just the beginning when it comes to reasons to exercise. Studies have linked physical activity to all kinds of other health benefits, from heart health and immune system function to mental health and sleep improvements. There are as many as 14 subtle but powerful health benefits of exercise, other than weight loss. “The list just never ends,” says Nolan Cohn. So if you only want to do one, chancing your diet is more valuable. To live your healthiest life, however, you’ll want a combination of both diet and exercise.

The post Diet or Exercise: The Final Verdict on Which Is Better for Weight Loss appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2l0NUqR

14 of the Most Impressive Keto Diet Before-and-After Pictures

“Accountability is the key”

In early 2016, Mary Alexander saw a photo of herself in a bathing suit and decided something had to change. A few weeks later, she started the keto diet, an ultra-low-carb, high-fat diet that’s becoming increasingly popular, partly because of the many keto diet before-and-after pictures. After two years, she’s lost 60 pounds with ten to 15 more to go to reach her goal.

“The hardest part of keto was getting started,” says Mary, a 54-year-old marketer from Rockwell, Texas. “Bread and sweets had been my friends for years, so giving them up was really hard.” She kept herself accountable with her Instagram account, @ketohabits: She’s gained more than 26,000 followers since she started her journey. “I attribute all of my success to my account, as well as weekly weigh-ins.” Before you start your weight loss journey, check out the 15 things you should know before trying the keto diet.

The post 14 of the Most Impressive Keto Diet Before-and-After Pictures appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2KtpLId

Different Species of Fish Used in Aquaponics

Aquaponics is a type of farming that grows healthy food sources with the use of soil. It combines the use of fish and water to achieve this goal.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2OAuxqy

Can Black Seed Oil Help with Weight Loss?

People seeking a fast solution to weight loss are often willing to try any number of options, from special tea blends to swigging a spoonful of apple cider vinegar every day. However, the newest supplement quickly gaining steam for weight loss is black seed oil. Read on to find out what research says about the weight-loss benefits of black seed oil to decide if it’s something you should add to your daily regimen.

What is black seed oil?

Black seed oil is made from black caraway or black cumin seeds, also known as Nigella seeds. The oil expressed from these seeds is used more commonly than the seeds themselves. However, both have some benefits. The seeds may taste a bit bitter, so the oil, which has a spicy or peppery flavor, is preferred by many people. Cinnamon is another spice that might help with weight loss.

“Nigella seeds have many pharmaceutical uses,” says Allie Gregg, RD, founder of MyEasyVeganDiet.com. “The seeds of the plant have been used in Southeast Asia, and the Middle and Far East as a natural remedy to treat many diseases, and is thought to offer benefits including anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and anti-obesity effects as well as being beneficial for respiratory health.”

But it’s black seed oil’s weight loss benefits that have given the supplement the most attention lately.

Can black seed oil help with weight loss?

People who promote black seed oil’s weight loss benefits chalk the supplement’s waist-shrinking abilities up to two main attributes. First, some research suggests black seed oil may help control insulin production and manage insulin levels.

A study in the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism found that black seed oil “causes gradual partial regeneration of pancreatic beta-cells, increases the lowered serum insulin concentrations, and decreases the elevated serum glucose.” Proper glucose control can reduce cravings and may help you lose weight. If the scale isn’t budging, these reasons might explain why you’re not losing weight.

The second element of black seed oil’s claim to weight loss is a decrease in inflammation. An antioxidant called thymoquinone in black seed oil may help reduce inflammation or swelling in the body, according to a study in Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine.

The number of studies that have looked at black seed oil for its weight loss benefits is small, but as it becomes more popular, more research is underway. A few studies already point to some promising results if you’re looking to use black seed oil for weight loss.

A small study of 20 people found that people who took black seed oil and did aerobic exercise showed better weight-loss results than people who did not take the supplement, according to a report in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine.

A 2018 study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology looked at the results of 11 placebo-controlled clinical trials. The findings reveal that black seed oil may reduce body weight. People who used the supplement had a reduction in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference.

The Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders conducted a systemic review of medical literature to find plants that have the greatest anti-obesity properties. The researchers discovered and wrote in their published findings that black seed oil was among the most effective natural weight-loss remedies currently known.

How do I take black seed oil for weight loss?

Black seed oil is available as an oil, a soft gel supplement, or a liquid supplement. You can find it at many health food or vitamin stores.

As with most supplements, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the production of black seed oil. It’s left up to the manufacturer to meet all the safety requirements. The FDA can then regulate the product if they find it makes claims that aren’t true or perhaps doesn’t meet the safety standards. In short, you can’t know you’re getting genuine black seed oil unless you’re buying from a reputable brand. Look for third-party testing to verify the oil’s potency.

The FDA also does not have a recommended daily dose or suggested dosing caps. You can take 500mg doses twice a day, and research shows you’re unlikely to experience side effects. It may even be safe to take as much as two grams in a day, but for the best results, start with a small dose and increase as you find you can tolerate it. Be sure to check with your doctor before taking the supplement, however. Some of the active ingredients in black seed oil can interfere with prescription medicines.

Bottom Line: “Even though the sample of studies is small to nonexistent when it comes to using black seed oil for weight loss, I would say there’s no harm in trying it given its other potent properties,” says Nikola Djordjevic, MD. “Surely, it can benefit your overall health, but if you want to lose weight and obtain a healthy lifestyle, think about changing your overall diet first.” Your doctors also wish you knew these 50 things about weight loss.

The post Can Black Seed Oil Help with Weight Loss? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2JNGBAw

This Is the Only Thing You Should Be Eating at Your Hotel’s Continental Breakfast

Vacation is basically a constant countdown to the next meal. Sure, you want to be free to treat yourself during these few precious days of relaxation, but going overboard at every meal could throw your regular diet way off track.

One easy time to focus on your health? Breakfast. Pick nutritious choices at your hotel’s continental spread, and you can indulge later in the day without the guilt. After all, you’re way more likely to miss that hand-churned ice cream on the boardwalk than those Froot Loops at breakfast. Plus, a healthy meal means no sugar crash, so you’ll be able to keep up with your kids’ high energy instead of begging for a nap before lunchtime.

The ideal breakfast should contain fiber, protein, and healthy fats, says dietitian and culinary specialist Sara Haas, RDN, LDN, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Not only will those three fill you up—and keep you full—but keeping them in mind is an almost effortless way to pack in nutrients. “When you get that trio, you’re likely getting them from a variety of sources, which means you’ll be getting an array of other good-for-you nutrients too,” she says.

Rule of thumb: Aim for a whole grain, a protein source, and some fruit from the continental breakfast. Dietitian Caroline Passerrello, MS, RDN, LDN, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, recommends oatmeal (sweetened with peanut butter), a hard-boiled egg, and banana, plus grabbing a yogurt to eat later. A cup of oatmeal has four grams of fiber, while the peanut butter, egg, and yogurt all pack in protein. The banana rounds out your meal with nutrients like vitamins B6 and C. “I would not necessarily have this combination at home because it would be a lot of preparation, but I love that the hotel staff has taken the prep work out of it for me,” says Passerrello. Or, try some of these food hacks for a healthy breakfast.

If you aren’t a fan of oatmeal, top a whole grain bagel or toast with peanut butter and fruit, or have it with a hard-boiled egg and fruit on the side, says Haas.

Just be careful while you’re stacking your plate—sweet cereals and pastries aren’t the only big sugar sources from a continental breakfast. A flavored oatmeal packet or fruity yogurt has about 12 to 18 grams of sugar; a doughnut has a mere ten grams. If available, stick with plain yogurt and unsweetened oatmeal instead. “I like to be the one adding the sugar,” says Haas. “That puts me in control of how much (if any) goes in there.” Sweeten it up with fresh fruit instead of brown sugar or honey—and keep in mind these breakfast foods you should be skipping, too.

Skip the OJ and eat a whole orange to get in more nutrients, says Haas. No need to give up your coffee fix, though, says Passerrello. Just keep it simple. “Keep the drinks close to what you do at home,” she says. “Don’t be tempted by items you don’t typically keep around.” Flavored creamers are tempting, but add more than one and the calories can add up fast. Use a coffee hack to make your morning pick-me-up healthier instead.

The post This Is the Only Thing You Should Be Eating at Your Hotel’s Continental Breakfast appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2vdKCbY

12 Healthiest, High-Fat Foods You Should Be Eating

Peanut butter

“If you’re like me, you think peanut butter is important stuff,” says Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, author of The Healthy Instant Pot Cookbook. “It’s a heart-healthy food that seems decadent but is actually healthy and satisfying.” White suggests choosing a nut butter with a minimal ingredient list—so just peanuts and salt, when possible. “Slathered onto a banana, peanut butter is a great pre-workout snack, and it can also be combined with rice vinegar, garlic, and low-sodium soy sauce to make a dipping sauce for grilled chicken or sautéed tofu,” she says. The nut butter is also delicious mixed into a blueberry peanut butter smoothie, peanut butter energy bites, or a peanut butter sweet potato spread.

The post 12 Healthiest, High-Fat Foods You Should Be Eating appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2Ob3h1S

Take Ownership of Your Health: Hold Yourself Accountable

Over the years, I've conducted extensive research on health topics such as obesity, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. I have also studied theories of behavior change. What jumps out at me the most is how many of these conditions are preventable.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2xRbIo1

Sleep Deprivation-Why Do We Need Eight Hours Sleep?

Why do we need 8 hours sleep at night, or to spend a third of our life in bed? It is now thought extended sleep deprivation, sleeping regularly only 4 or five hours a night can have harmful health effects. Long-term sleep deprivation is now liked to heart disease, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, diabetes and even dementia and weight loss. Because of comfort eating it can also cause weight gain.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2lBz65Y

Importance of Right Glassware

Eating and drinking may be just another imperative thing to do for humans for their survival, but they are impacted by a lot of things. One of the factors that has a direct effect on the manner in which the food is targeted and absorbed by the body is the psychology with which one consumes their food and drinks and this psychology is majorly affected by the cutlery and the utensils in which we do this repetitive task. Eating proper is not just about eating the right food in the right manner, but it is also about eating it in...

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2k7HMAZ

A Primer on Gut Flora

Driving along a suburban road on the North side of Brisbane (Australia), a kangaroo bounds seemingly out of nowhere and hits the side of my car. Minor vehicle damage but the animal was clearly in pain and could not get up. After phoning 1300 Animal, the Vet arrived and gave us the sad prognosis. He did have some good news though, as he fished out a very-much-alive joey out of the nearly dead kangaroo's pouch. He said: "Be sure to mix these in with his milk" as he handed me some of mum kangaroo's droppings. This article gives overview to how we acquire the all-important gut flora.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2Jz5P4d

If Your Stomach Is Getting More Than Needed, You Can Have Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is a short-term disease caused by infection and swelling of the digestive tract. Other causes include some viruses, bacteria, bacterial poisons, parasites, special chemicals, and some medicines.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2XEqv4Q

Why Is Medical Coding Essential in Healthcare?

Nowadays, there are a lot of health care professions out there, but medical billing is on the list of top professions. Around 20 years back, there were not many job opportunities in the healthcare industry. Now, there are lots of job opportunities in the healthcare market. And this has increased the demand for medical coding professionals. Let's find out why medical coding is essential in healthcare.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YHgjFe

What Are the Uses of Medical Transcriptions?

Aside from their routine duties, healthcare providers have to maintain notes for the record-keeping process and meet the HIPPA-compliance standards. Typically, small providers have an experienced in-house transcriptionist to take care of the recorded materials. In this article, we are going to take a look at the uses of medical transcription and why it's important to maintain accurate medical transcriptions.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2G6ptUd

Here Is Why Everyone Needs Health Insurance

Today, healthcare insurance is one of the hottest political topics. Everyone is asking who should be able to have health insurance, what will be the costs of it, can you survive without insurance and what will be the penalty? In this article, we are going to help you know the reasons why everyone needs health insurance.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2YHghx6

Healthcare Quality Methods

Healthcare organizations can employ different health care methods for quality improvement. Since healthcare is not a simple phenomenon, industries find it hard to adopt the controls and standardization of quality improvement methods. However, general methods that define quality, grow improvement measures and identify variation through PDSA cycles and control charts have been successful in the application of healthcare processes. Let's take a look at some healthcare quality improvement methods.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2G698Pw

THis Is Why Everyone Should Invest in Treating the Water

Water that is clean and suitable for drinking is essential to life. A purification system provides several benefits. It is recommended by the US Center for Disease Control to drink a minimum of 64 oz of H20 daily because of the several benefits to health.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2S0eHng

What Are the Dangers Hidden in Contaminated Water?

It is normal for tap and bottled water, among other types of drinking water, to contain some amount of contaminants. In the US, the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA has set strict standards for around 90 various types of contaminants that can be present in drinking water. This page has a compilation of the most common water pollutants, which have been categorized below to give a more detailed information on some particular contaminants and how they affect your health.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2NGfPhw

What Are the Most Common Water Pollutants?

Arsenic Arsenic is a heavy metal known to be very toxic. People who drink water that contains arsenic beyond EPA's standard for many years could go through several serious health issues. These could include problems with the bladder, heart, kidney, liver and lungs.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/32irkif

Water Treatment Explained for Everyone

Different Processes of Water Treatment We need clean, safe water in everyday living. It is very important for the community's well-being, hygiene and productivity. The process of treating water may slightly be different at various places, depending on the technology of the plant that needs processing.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2NGfM5k

How Much Water Are You Drinking Every Day?

Some people do not realize the value of water, and how drinking it can have a huge effect on their overall health. Even if it is crucial to drink lots of water, many of these individuals may not be drinking the right amount of water every day. According to the Institute of Medicine, men are advised to consume 3 liters of water a day, while women are supposed to consume 2.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/32dMYEr

How a 3D Prostate Treatment Can Prove to Be Highly Efficient

Surgical treatments can be uncomfortable and can also take a lot of time to recover from and that is the reason why many treatments are taking new nonsurgical turns. This has become the case with prostate cancer or enlargements where the 3D treatment has become very well-known in the last few years.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com https://ift.tt/2JDBaTF

13 Weight Loss Quotes That Will Keep You Motivated

On repetition

“Champions keep playing until they get it right.” —Billie Jean King, International Hall of Fame tennis player

The post 13 Weight Loss Quotes That Will Keep You Motivated appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2XP2U0k

How Often Should You Eat to Lose Weight?

How often should you eat? Well, the classic “three square meals a day” rule may not be as antiquated as you think. Studies show that eating six smaller meals has led to obesity; however, what works for one person might not work for the other. 

A survey from the American Heart Association and Aramark found that three in five (60%) “employed Americans who typically eat lunch during work hours are extremely or very interested in improving the healthiness of their typical workday lunch.” If this sounds like you, then read up on how getting to know your body can help you answer the question “how often should you eat?” and shed those pounds. 

Make a realistic plan

These guidelines will help you determine the best weight loss practice for your body type, as noted by Dr. Dara Bushman, Psy.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist. “Weight loss happens when a plan is realistic to someone’s lifestyle and needs. If you work 12-hour shifts, it is not realistic to eat every two hours,” she says. Also, be intentional with your plan and write out what you want to happen. “See yourself as if you already lost the weight, how you look and feel. Be as descriptive as possible.”

You are your body’s best spokesperson for determining the answer to “how often should you eat?” Only you can feel that twinge of hunger, or know when your seam is about to bust. The best weight loss option for you is what’s easiest and will last the longest. This tip is included in the 50 things your doctor wishes you knew about losing weight. You’re more likely to follow it if it falls within your everyday habits. 

Not your body, but your habits

Weight loss all boils down to Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE). Think about it: If you eat fewer calories than you burn, your body has to attend to the gap in calories. It does this by burning through reservoirs of stored fat, and in turn, you lose weight. Planning ahead is one of the crucial parts of making your diet work, and here are 20 more hidden reasons why your diet isn’t working.

“Once you determine your TDEE and incorporate activity into your lifestyle, you can determine exactly how much you can eat to lose weight—whether that’s six or two meals per day,” says Amber Nash, founder of Fit Healthy Best.

Why is that weight there in the first place?

Whether a major health problem or the desire to be more fit is pushing you to lose weight, it’s important to consider how it got there in the first place. Once you’ve identified the areas of your life that make it easy to gain weight—stress, time, habits, lack of exercise—you can begin to see results. Arlene B. Englander, psychotherapist and author of Let Go of Emotional Overeating and Love Your Food: A Five Point Plan for Success, weighs in on the psychology of eating.  

“Sadly, so many of us, especially those of us who want to lose weight, focus primarily on what we eat rather than how we eat,” Englander says. “Many of us are mindlessly munching on foods we don’t even taste while tuned in to phones and other devices during the day.” These 7 mind tricks help you stop emotional eating and cut the mindless munching. This self-control will help you stop at the point of satisfaction—a skill that’s important for lifelong weight control, Englander says.

The sweltering summer months mean more sweat, and more sweat means dehydration. Englander says studies show that many of us can mislabel thirst as hunger. “Drinking an ounce of fluid for every two ounces of body weight per day is a standard guideline that’s easy to remember. Downing a glass of water or fluid-filled foods at the start of every meal can help us in our efforts to eat mindfully,” Englander says. “[Let] hunger and appetite be our guide, rather than feeling driven by a desperate desire to escape stress.” Read on to find out more weight loss myths you need to stop believing.

Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The post How Often Should You Eat to Lose Weight? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/306W83N

The Only Crash Diet to Consider If You Must Lose Weight Fast

Load up on non-starchy veggies

Face it, if you want to lose weight over the long haul, your best bet is to make sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes.But sometimes life comes at you fast and you need a fast solution. One smart lifestyle change is to eat plenty of veggies—especially for someone looking to lose weight. Vegetables are nutrient-packed and provide plenty of filling fiber with hardly any calories. Plus, non-starchy veggies have a high water content, so they hydrate you while filling you up—the perfect combination for weight loss. Shedding those pounds means shedding old habits, check out the nine simple changes this woman made to lose 45 pounds and keep them off.

Starchy veggies (like potatoes) and processed whole grains (like whole-wheat bread) are foods I’d normally recommend eating in moderation, since they provide plenty of nutrients, fiber, and healthy carbs. However, high-carb foods aren’t your best friend when you’re looking to drop water weight. Essentially, when your body stores excess carbs, it stores them with water. So replacing carb-heavy foods with non-starchy veggies that still provide filling fiber without as much water retention is the way to go. For a week before your event, you can swap out the starchy carbs for more non-starchy vegetables to lose some water weight.

Aim for filling at least half of your plate with non-starchy veggies like asparagus, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, spinach, kale, cucumbers, and more. This is a great idea for everyone’s health, not just people wanting to lose weight.

The post The Only Crash Diet to Consider If You Must Lose Weight Fast appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2krKuAr

How the Calorie Content in Food is Determined

You hear about calories all the time. But what are they really? A calorie is technically the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one gram of water 1 °C, per Merriam-Webster. Confused? No worries. In plain speak, calories provide energy in the food you consume—and when you exercise, you burn calories as fuel.

How many calories should you eat in a day? “Your calorie needs depend on a lot of factors—including your gender, age, activity levels, whether you’re pregnant or nursing, and more,” says Samantha Cassetty, MS, RD, a weight-loss expert in New York City. “You can also factor in whether you want to lose weight, gain weight, or stay steady.” In a nutshell: The smaller you are, the fewer calories you require. This is how many calories are in a pound.

“Generally speaking, men need more calories than women because of their larger body sizes and greater muscle mass,” explains Cassetty. “Men need up to 3,000 calories, while most women need in the range of 1,600 to 2,000 calories per day.” This range is not at all set in stone, and you can always find a registered dietitian in your area at eatright.org who can help you come up with individualized calorie needs based on your specific needs. Whatever you do, don’t eat below 1,200 calories a day unless you’re working with a medical professional—and even then, you won’t want to stay at that total for long. “It would be really difficult to meet your nutrient needs at 1,200 calories, and you might have a hard time feeling satisfied with that few calories,” notes Cassetty.

Here’s the history of the calorie

Believe it or not, the term “calorie” wasn’t a mainstay in American vocabulary until the late 1880s. This was when Wilbur O. Atwater defined the calorie as we know it, in Century magazine. The word became better known with the publication of the “1894 USDA Farmer’s Bulletin.” This publication introduced the first American food database that would be used in the emerging field of dietetics. From then on out, the concept of the calorie was discussed in articles and books—a conversation that continues today, especially when it comes to weight management.

How do manufacturers calculate calorie counts?

Two methods are most commonly used by food manufacturers. One is the 4-4-9 method, which outlines that a protein or carbohydrate contains four calories per gram and fat has nine calories per gram. Take a packet of instant oatmeal, for example, that has 5 grams of protein, 27 grams of carbs, and 3 grams of fat. Based on the 4-4-9 method, this food would contain 155 calories.

Another method commonly used is the system that Atwater created. This method takes into account the amount of energy available from specific foods. For instance, in corn grits, a gram of protein has 2.73 calories, a gram of carbohydrates has 4.03 calories, and a gram of fat has 8.37 grams. In an egg, on the other hand, a gram of protein has 4.36 calories, while a gram of carbohydrates has 3.68 calories and a gram of fat has 9.02 calories.

What about carbohydrates that aren’t digested?

When it comes to non-digestible carbs, a third method for determining calories may be used. This is the 4-4-9 method, adjusted with a factor of two calories per gram—versus four calories per gram—used for soluble non-digestible carbohydrates.

Yet another method is utilized when sugar alcohols come into the picture. General calorie factors are assigned for specific sugar alcohols. For instance, isomalt and lactitol have two calories per gram, while sorbitol has 2.6 calories per gram. Erythritol has 0 calories per gram.

Other methods are used, too

A technique called bomb calorimetry may also be used to assess the number of calories in food. This is a process that involves burning the food to see how much heat it releases. This heat is then directly converted to calories.

Calories are rounded up

On a food’s nutrition label, calories are typically rounded. When a food contains up to 50 calories per serving, the number of calories is rounded to the nearest five-calorie increment. And when food has more than 50 calories per serving, it may be rounded in ten-calorie increments.

Zero-calorie foods rarely contain zero calories

If a food has less than five calories per serving, its nutrition label may list zero calories, notes the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. For example, a food with two calories per serving will be noted as having zero calories.

Inaccuracy is allowed

“Declared nutrient values get a 20 percent tolerance for regulatory compliance because it is unlikely that every analyzed batch will have the exact same values,” notes Lauren Swann, MS, RD, a nutrition strategist in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. This means that if a label says a food contains 300 calories per serving, the food could actually have as much as 360 calories or as little as 240 calories per serving.

Calorie counts do differ

Researchers looked at food label accuracy for common snack foods, in a study in Obesity. They tested candy bars, chips, cereal bars, pastries, cookies, crackers, ice cream, nuts, nut mixes, and yogurt using bomb calorimetry. What they found: The measured calorie amounts surpassed the ones listed on nutrition labels by an average of 8 percent. Most products tested were within the 20 percent margin of error allowed by the FDA.

The Atwater system is not perfect

Atwater factors for nuts especially may be inaccurate. In a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that Atwater factors for almonds were overestimated by 32 percent. When using the Atwater factor for almonds, the nut is determined to have 168 to 170 calories per ounce. However, the study authors found that almonds actually contain 129 calories per ounce. In another study in Food & Function, researchers found that how almonds are processed affects how many calories are actually absorbed. For instance, 25 percent fewer calories from whole unroasted almonds are absorbed than what’s listed on the nutrition label. For whole roasted almonds, 19 percent fewer calories are absorbed, and 17 percent fewer calories from chopped roasted almonds are absorbed. Interestingly, this amount does not differ for almond butter.

Calories may be listed differently on imported foods

Eating food from another country? The nutrition label may look different. In Europe, calories are rounded to the nearest calorie. In Canada, if a food contains less than five calories, it’s rounded to the nearest calorie—unless it meets “free of energy” requirements and is labeled with zero calories.

Are calories the end all of food decisions?

Absolutely not. “It’s important for people to know there is far more to nutrition than the caloric value of a food,” says Maya Feller, RD, a registered dietitian in Brooklyn, New York. “In fact, when thinking about important aspects of food, calories are not always on the top of that list. Going the low-calorie route can leave many people feeling deprived and unsatisfied.”

Cassetty agrees. “I’m less concerned about the calories of a particular food and more concerned about the quality of the food itself,” she says. “Multiple studies have linked overly processed food to weight and health problems. So if you’re just looking at calories, you’re not getting the full picture of a food’s impact on your health or weight.” Get an insider look at healthy food decisions when nutritionists reveal their top healthy-eating secrets.

So what should you look at instead?

“It’s not necessary to focus on calories if you get a few things right,” says Cassetty. “Eat mostly whole foods, embrace generous portions of veggies, and cut way back on overly processed snack foods, refined grains, and foods and drinks with added sugars.” And consider whipping up some of your own easy, healthy meals. Try a vanilla smoothie made with Greek yogurt and plant-based ingredients for breakfast, and go with a Mediterranean vegetable salad for lunch or dinner. Homemade almond butter protein balls make a great snack or dessert! Also, give these 15 grilling recipes under 400 calories a try!

Amy Gorin is a freelance writer, registered dietitian, and owner of Amy Gorin Nutrition in the New York City area. Connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

The post How the Calorie Content in Food is Determined appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/2X5cZ9W

Does the Bone Broth Diet Work for Weight Loss?

What is bone broth?

You’re already familiar with broth and stock — now it’s time to meet their thicker and more potent big brother, bone broth. So what’s the real difference between stock and broth? Jessica DeLuise, MHS, PA-C, CCMS, founder of Eat Your Way to Wellness, says that broth is made from meat flesh, veggies, and aromatics; stock is made from bones, fresh veggies, and aromatics simmered for less than 18 hours; and bone broth is like stock, but simmered for 18 to 24 hours or longer to break down the collagen and minerals in the bone and allow them to seep into the broth.

How long has bone broth been around?

People have been making and drinking bone broth for many, many years. “The Chinese started using it over 2,500 years ago, while 12th-century Egyptian physicians prescribed it as a remedy for colds and asthma,” says food scientist Bryon Yang, PhD, president of Nutra Food Ingredients. “With modern science, we have finally been able to understand what makes bone broth so special — it’s the nutrients it carries.” He says bone broth is filled with vitamins, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, amino acids (the building blocks of protein), and collagen (the most abundant protein in your body, found in connective tissue, ligaments, hair, nails, and skin).

What is the bone broth diet?

By now, you’ve probably been inundated with info from friends and celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, who swear by this diet — but, honestly, what’s all the hype about bone broth? While it has been around for centuries, it’s having a modern-day moment, thanks to the bone broth diet. Created by Kellyann Petrucci, MS, ND, a naturopathic physician and weight-loss specialist who wrote the book Bone Broth Diet, this 21-day diet claims to harness the ancient power of collagen and bone broth to promote gut health, reduce chronic inflammation, reverse the signs of aging, regain energy, eliminate headaches, and support autoimmune diseases.

What do you eat on the bone broth diet?

“Bone broth is a traditional food that involves the slow simmering of bones and veggies for an extended period of time, making it a rich source of collagen, gelatin, and amino acids and minerals,” says Samantha Presicci, MCN, RD, LD, CPT, who is the lead registered dietician at Snap Kitchen. The 21-day plan popularized by Dr. Petrucci involves eating Paleo five days a week (which means eating animal protein, fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats while avoiding grains, dairy, sugar, and artificial sweeteners, processed foods, and legumes) and then fasting with bone broth the other two days. On the days that you eat Paleo you replace your snacks with bone broth; on the fasting days, you replace all meals with bone broth. If you need a little inspiration, start with these 12 Paleo diet foods that are nutritional powerhouses.

How does the bone broth diet promote weight loss?

“I like the bone broth diet for a few reasons,” says DeLuise. “Bone broth is high in protein, collagen, and minerals, which can support healthy tissues, satiety, and gut healing. Plus, while eating Paleo, you’re removing the majority of potential foods that could cause bloating or weight gain, such as dairy, wheat, and beans.” By sipping on bone broth between meals, she says dieters may feel less of an urge to grab a processed, sugar-laden snack. And since it’s mostly water, it’s an easy and delicious way to hydrate the body. All of these properties work together to help lower overall calorie intake. Finally, the fasting days with bone broth align with many beliefs of fasting and intermittent fasting for wellness, which have been associated with weight loss and improving insulin resistance.

What kind of weight loss can people expect?

Everyone is different, so there is no set amount. “It’s possible someone could probably lose between five to ten pounds in 21 days, with much of that being water weight,” says Presicci, “but I definitely do not recommend or encourage attempting quick weight loss. Since this diet is only meant for 21 days, people may treat it as a crash diet and miss the opportunity to use it as a reset for gut, hormone, and overall health.” And while you’re at it, consider adding a few of these 13 best supplements and vitamins for weight loss into your new routine.

Do the experts recommend the bone broth diet for weight loss?

Yes…and no. Dr. Yang says it’s low in calories, which increases your ability to burn excess calories and lose weight, while the high protein content (about 8 to 10 grams of protein per 8 ounces) also helps build muscle and makes your body feel fuller for longer. “The longer an individual feels full, the lower their food cravings will be throughout the day,” he says. “Less food equals less calorie intake. If an individual combines the diet with exercise three to four times a week, they will have a recipe for weight-loss success.”

Conversely, Rachel Fine, RD, owner of To The Pointe Nutrition, says that the bone broth diet is a “dangerously restrictive diet” and calls it “an unhealthy, short-term fix for weight loss, which will further result in the vulnerability to increased weight gain later on.” She goes on to say that the long-term negative effects of a restricted diet outweigh potential short-term benefits because restricting carbs causes the body to release specific hormones to counter the restriction, promoting increased cravings. Essentially, it could backfire.

What are the additional benefits beyond weight loss?

“There are numerous benefits to eating a paleo diet and drinking bone broth, including decreased inflammation, better sleep, improved skin health, normal blood sugars, improved gut health, and more,” says Presicci. “The key with both of these approaches is to be consistent—it won’t help to follow a plan for 21 days if you’re not planning to continue those habits long-term. The benefits of Paleo and of bone broth are only going to be seen if both habits are practiced consistently.” If you aren’t familiar with the importance of a healthy gut, read up on these 15 gut health research breakthroughs that could change everything.

Are there any risks to this diet?

Given the disparity of opinions between registered dietitians regarding the bone broth diet, it’s wise to check with your personal dietitian or health practitioner to figure out if it’s a good fit for you—particularly if you are on medication, suffer from hypoglycemia, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. “Especially for someone new to healthy eating, I’d recommend avoiding the fasting days and instead incorporating bone broth into their day of eating,” advises Presicci. “Bone broth can help decrease water retention and inflammation, even if you don’t change much else in your diet.” If you’re determined to try fasting, start the process with this intermittent fasting guide.

Are there any alternatives if you don’t want to commit to 21 days?

If you’re unsure about jumping headfirst into a three-week program, perhaps a one-week plan might be more palatable. Meredith Cochran, who has a degree in cellular molecular biology and a background in traditional Chinese medicine, and is co-founder and CEO of The Osso Good Co., wrote the book The 7-Day Bone Broth Diet Plan. Her version is all about rebooting your gut and setting you on a path to a better-feeling you with healthier eating habits. “The main idea of this diet is simple: Consume two servings of bone broth per day, plus whole foods as needed to improve your path to better gut health,” she explains. “This means eating only pastured and grass-fed proteins, good saturated fats, like avocado, coconut oil, and ghee, and organic vegetables. Avoid processed foods, alcohol, dairy, grains, and sugar because they cause inflammation in your gut. Bone broth is naturally anti-inflammatory and improves digestion, allowing your gut to do a mini reset.”

Where do you find bone broth?

You can easily make it in your own kitchen or buy store-bought versions. If making at home, Presicci says to choose pasture-raised bones and filtered water for your recipe. If you buy bone broth from the store, make sure you’re buying bone broth and not stock. Bone broth has been slow cooked for 24+ hours, leaching important nutrients from the bones, whereas stock is cooked for a lot less time and as a result, it has less collagen and gelatin.

Are all bone broths created equal?

As with most food products, there’s a big difference in quality between brands and packaging methods. Perishable bone broth, which requires refrigeration, has a shelf life of around one week or can be frozen for 6 to 12 months. If made the right way, perishable bone broth is thick and gelatinous with a Jello-like consistency when cold.” On the flip side, shelf-stable broth may seem more convenient, but the health benefits are diminished. When you shake them, you’ll notice a watery texture, unlike the thick and gelatinous texture that’s characteristic of a perishable bone broth when cold. “To make a shelf-stable bone broth, it must be heated to a very high temperature,” she continues. “This high temperature, even for a few seconds, often destroys the fragile gelatin, leaving behind a liquid similar to the texture of water.” So what you gain in portability and shelf life you may lose in health benefit. The bone broth diet isn’t for everyone, but there are other ways to incorporate broth and its benefits into your diet. If you’re not interested in bone broth at all, these 21 Whole30 snacks you’ll actually want to eat might help add nutrients to your diet and aid in weight loss, too.

 

The post Does the Bone Broth Diet Work for Weight Loss? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest http://bit.ly/2Y8Zin7

How Many Calories Does Sex Burn?

When it comes to breaking a sweat, a bit of fooling around is probably the most enjoyable way to do it. Plus, if you’re getting it on several times a week (or a day!), you can totally count it as a workout, right? Well, let’s not get ahead of ourselves; science shows results are a mix. So how many calories does sex burn?

How many calories does sex burn?

There have been a few different studies that include research on sex and calorie burn. One study, from the University if Quebec, tracked and compared calorie burn during exercise versus sex. The results show that men burn more than 100 calories during 25 minutes of sex or 4.2 calories per minute. Women only burn 69 calories per 25 minutes of sex or 3.1 calories per minute. The same group ran lightly for 30 minutes and burned more calories. The women burned an average of 213 calories, and the men burned an average of 276 calories, per the results of the study.

And the news only gets worse from there. A report published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that men burned just 21 calories during six minutes of sex—which is typically how long sex lasts for the average couple. The study did not include women.

Based on the current research, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how many calories people burn during sex since there are so many variables, according to Michael Henri, MA, BA, the founder of Michael Henri Coaching who has degrees in Kinesiology and Physiotherapy. “There are so many factors to consider when calculating calories burned during sex, such as age, weight, metabolism, effort, positions, and length of time,” he says. “These factors can significantly change the outcome results depending on their baseline.” You can’t control some of these factors, but you do have the power to improve your sex life. But Candy Morales, CPT, a celebrity trainer and health and wellness coach, explains that despite these factors, energy expenditure and calories burned will always be higher with exercise, than sex.

How can you burn more calories during sex?

In general, higher intensity activity burns more calories than low or moderately intense activity, according to Nesochi Okeke-Igbokwe, MD, a physician, and health expert. “So if attempting to use sex as your main form of exercise, you’ll likely benefit more from a higher intensity session,” Dr. Okeke-Igbokwe says. There are a few things you could do in the bedroom to boost your calorie burn. “The best way to burn calories during sex is to apply a level of effort to increase heart-rate as much as possible,” Henri says. You could do this by having longer sex sessions or switching up positions, Dr. Okeke-Igbokwe adds. Finding creative ways to prolong the experience will inevitably result in using more energy and burning more calories, Morales adds.

Burning some calories isn’t the only benefit of sex

Even though sex might not be the best way to burn calories, there are some other unexpected health benefits you can get from sex. Having regular sex helps your body fight disease, improves your mental health and mood, and even makes you look younger. A lot of benefits crossover both sex and exercise because they involve increased heart rate, endurance, and strength. Both activities are good for your mind, too, especially since they boost endorphins, Morales says. Don’t forget that making love could even help you slow down aging—if you have sex this many times. That’s reason enough to get busy on the regular.

The post How Many Calories Does Sex Burn? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

from Reader's Digest http://bit.ly/2X0qV0j