5 Tips to Help you Stay on Track and Get Results

5 Tips to Help you Stay on Track and Get Results

Most everyone knows that exercise can help us burn body-fat, build muscle, and improve our fitness. But now, as science moves forward and unveils more of the incredible benefits of exercise, we’re learning that it can be utilized as a medicine to both prevent and treat conditions ranging from the common cold to cancer. And it can also be utilized as a potent mood brightener (as or more effective than prescription anti-depressants) and cognitive performance enhancer. Exercise is the best medicine I know of and all of us should be participating in it now, and for life!
Here’s 5 Tips for getting back on track and sticking with it…
#5 — Team Up!

Scientific studies show that people who connect with others for support, encouragement, and accountability get better results in the short and long run compared with those who try to go it alone. And this is something that I recommend that everyone take advantage of. Whenever possible, work out with a friend or as part of a group. Meeting a personal trainer at the gym or walking with co-workers at lunchtime will give you a tremendous advantage in consistency. If for now you’re flying solo with your workouts, at least join an online accountability group where you can share your workout plan with others each week, and then report back to them to let them know how you’ve done. And in return, offer to help support, encourage, and keep others accountable. Whenever we team up like this, we always have an extra advantage that can help keep us going strong!

#4 — Plan and Prepare

Far too often people get so busy trying to keep up with the seemingly urgent things in their life, they forget perhaps the most important thing, which is to take care of themselves. When we’re run down and not feeling good, our ability to help others, even our own families, will be compromised as a result. Knowing that, what I teach others and what I want you to consider is to plan your workouts in advance and write them into your schedule. I want you to see showing up for your workout is as important as showing up for a doctor’s appointment. Because as I shared in the introduction, exercise is very much akin to the best medicine there is. You can simply write down what time you’re going to exercise in the day ahead, where you’re going to do it, and what form of exercise or routine you’re going to complete. Just adding this one element of planning can make all the difference when it comes to sticking with a workout routine and enjoying the results it produces.

#3 — Keep Showing Up

By far and away the most important factor with getting wonderful results from exercise is consistency. Whether it’s walking, jogging, weight lifting, or following a home exercise video, you have to do it consistently to get results. And when you are consistent, any and all of those forms of exercise will help you become healthier and enjoy your life more. What I want you to know is if you’re not used to exercising regularly—whether it’s been a while since you were in the groove with it, or if it’s something you’ve never clicked with, you have every single bit as much potential to get the hang of it as me and everyone else. The breakthrough comes when you make it a habit—a pattern of action. Our patterns are the things we do without having to even think about it—we’ve got patterns and habits for how we work, how we relate to others, how we take care of ourselves and so on. And with exercise, we want to make it one of those automatic patterns so that it feels more natural to do it than not. This is best accomplished by making a commitment to show up, no matter what, for at least a month. If you don’t feel like working out or you don’t feel like you’ve got the energy to work out, go to the gym or go stand on the treadmill in your garage or basement for five minutes. Just show up. And don’t break this routine for anything. Of course, more than 9 times out of 10, when I do this myself, I get to the gym, I stand on the treadmill and I think, “What the heck… I’m already here, I might as well start walking and jogging…” Promise me you’ll keep showing up and I promise you it will get easier and easier. to stick with this good habit.

#2 — Have a Back-Up Plan

So many times people make the mistake of having an all-or-none attitude about exercise. That is, if they can’t make it to the gym for their planned exercise session, they do nothing at all. What I want you to do is have a back-up plan for those times when things don’t go as scheduled. This could be a basic routine of push ups, sit-ups, and other exercises you can do any time, anywhere, without exercise equipment. So many times, when I’m traveling and staying at different hotels, I’ll fall back on a plan like this, just to make sure I’m doing something to keep the habit of my routine going. Taking an evening walk is a good back-up plan for when you can’t get to the gym during your work day. Walking the stairs in a hotel, or your apartment or office building is also a good back-up plan. Having a basic set of free weights at home that you can work out with when you don’t have time to get to the gym will help you avoid missing work outs too. Remember, we’ve got to keep our momentum going once we get started — putting this tip into action is a surefire way to do that.

#1 — Know Your Reason

For each of us, there’s a purposeful reason for making the healthy changes that we’re deciding to make in our lives. It can take some soul searching to find it in some instances, and in others, we simply need to open our eyes and see. Why is it important for you to exercise and be healthy? Do you want to set a positive example for your children, and also be around for them as they grow up and someday have children of their own? Again I ask, what are the inspiring reasons behind your decision to transform your body and life? Give it some consideration and you will be able to identify one or more things that motivate you from within. Then I want you to remind yourself of that every single time you’re choosing whether to work out that day or not. What many people have discovered is that one inspiring reason will override a hundred excuses. So please, know yours and think of it often — allow it to strengthen your determination and commitment to follow through each and every day. The better your reasons…the better your results!

No Bad....Just Good.....Better and Best

No Bad.....Good...better & Best!

Over the last few months I've done allot of reading and research and I've seen some really poor articles and I've seen some really great articles that provide people with information they can actually use.

Some self proclaimed industry experts are writing articles to self promote their own personal agendas and that in my opinion is where the confusion begins. Many of these gurus will bash sound exercise programs telling people that some exercises that have been around for decades are absolutely useless. In fact I read just a few days ago where one of the self promoting gurus announced that the Tricep push-down exercise is a complete waste of time. In fact the use of machine weights were a waste of time in his strongly opinionated article. What's really sad many people will buy this garbage and stop the exercises completely.

In my opinion, there is always a good, better & best with everything and that includes exercise.

Every single person that has decided to begin an exercise program should do just one thing to start and that is get up off your butt and MOVE!

No one will ever improve their health sitting around talking about how they are going to get in shape. So less talk and more action!

Next is really simple, do NOT get caught-up reading articles in magazines because 95% of them are written to get you to buy a supplement or a program by the gurus of the industry.

The bottom line is any exercise beats no exercise every day of the week.

If you are wanting to lose body fat, great stick to the basics, squats, dead-lifts, Olympic style lifts and high impact cardio. Build the big muscles in your body and let them burn your fat.

If you are in shape already and want to do some fine tuning of a particular muscle group great, add those tricep push downs or bicep curls to your routine.

In my opinion if you are exercising your are making progress to a healthier YOU! If you need help seek out a good trainer that can take you to the next level. Find one that fits your personality, don't hire the first one that you meet, interview several and pick the trainer that best listens to your needs and proves to be knowledgeable and will be able to take you to that next level. Remember YOU are the client and it's your money, the trainer works for YOU.

In closing the object of this article is just to help you get going in the right direction and that all starts with ACTION! Sitting and talking about it never accomplished anything. Clearing the air about all these self proclaimed experts was also important, do not get caught-up in believing that one program is superior to another. In the big picture all programs are either good, better or best. It's all up to YOU on what best fits your own personal needs.

Mental Attitude for Training.

Mental Attitude for Training.

To get the best out of your training every time you prepare to train, make sure you have cleared your mind of all the negative.

Having a clear mind and letting go of daily stress will help you preform better in your training session.

We've all heard that stress is one of the leading causes for heart attack and stroke but many of us never really think about what else it's doing to our bodies. Just because your heart is functioning as it should does not mean you are not effected by the stress.

Stress produces cortisol and cortisol helps fat stay right where it's at and locks up fat loss. Stress also causes hypertension, and elevated blood pressure especially during resistance exercise can be very dangerous.

Recent studies have also shown that stress reduces the production of ATP within the Mitochondria of the cells and limits your anaerobic endurance. Reduced levels of ATP will make your training session a real struggle. Cortisol also slows down the healing process and can bring on symptoms of over-training and cause disruptive sleep patterns making it even more difficult to train properly.

So when you walk into the gym make sure you take a moment and clear your head of daily stress and focus on the job at hand.

The truth be told, the stress you created is all in your head and only you can allow it to consume you or LET IT GO!

I highly recommend reading a book by Dr. Wayne Dyer entitled,
"There's a Spiritual Solution for Every Problem". This book has nothing to do with religion, it simply tells you how to let go of the stress that is effecting your life.

Remember being fit in the gym is just 1/3 of being totally fit. Remember to exercise the mind and spirit as well. You are only as strong as your weakest link.

I don't lift weights because I do not want to have big muscles.

I don't lift weights because I do not want to have big muscles.


Yes there is a dark side and it is full of myths that keep you from reaching your goals.


Myth Buster number 1:

Ladies, lifting weights will not give you big muscles, classic example in our very own studio is Amanda Harris, (one of our personal trainers) She is 5'3" tall and weighs 125lbs at about 15% body-fat (leaner for competitions). Amanda has been lifting extremely heavy weights since she was 8 years old. In fact at age 10 she set a world record in the squat with a lift of 220lbs at a body weight of 64lbs and today she squats well over 400lbs. By looking at her you would never believe the numbers I just told you, but hey the proof is in seeing it for yourself. Amanda has documented her career as a 17 time World Champion Powerlifter by posting over 100 videos on Youtube. (just search Barbie Barbell).

"I don't want to workout lifting weights because I don't want to build big muscles " or "I just do aerobics and sit ups to lose weight because if I lift weights, I may build muscle and looked like a man."

Ladies. Have you made these comments before? Awww... c'mon ladies, if you have ever uttered these words, you have just done a terrible disservice to yourself and are missing out on many great benefits that working out with weights can give you. Have you ever pointed to your belly or butt and sweetly proclaimed, "I want lose weight here." So managed to convince yourself that sweating profusely is the answer to a slim and beautiful body and you hit the gym day in and day out just to sweat off your tummy or butt fats!

So you peddle away on your stationary bike in the gym just like little hamsters or frantically stepping away on the step up machine and then you woefully do crunches after crunches in the hope of having a flat belly and a well rounded shapely butt not realizing that there is no such thing as spot reduction.

You never even bother take a look at the weight lifting machines or the free weights lying everywhere in the gym not to say even touching those weights. Gosh, this terrible myth of building big muscles on women is creating so much fear in women causing them never to train with weights at their detriment.

Ladies! If you are listening, I want to say this loud and clear. There is no way women will build big huge muscles unless you are on special supplementation and specially designed training system. Some of those muscle bound ladies you have seen may even be taking steroids which are banned and obviously harmful. Never touch steroids to build muscles.

So the, why is it difficult for women to build big muscles? Well, it is simply because you do not have enough of testosterone, a male hormone that encourages your muscles to grow. In fact, women have ten to thirty times less testosterone than their male counterparts. Women who accept the myth that they will build big muscles if they workout with weights will miss out on all of the benefits that weightlifting and bodybuilding can offer. This myth is so ingrained in women's psyche that even after explaining the facts to my women clients, they are still afraid to lift weights. So will women who lift weights in their workouts build more muscle tissue? Yes, of course, but it will not be those big huge muscles like those of male bodybuilders. Your muscles will give you the body shape that you most desire, resulting in a tight, firm, healthy, attractive and desirable body. The body shape that is ever so sexy and healthy. Yes, you may have noticed an increase in weight when you step on a scale. This is because muscles weigh more than fat. Thus, as you increase your muscle tissue, your weight will increase but your fats will be reduced giving you a well toned sexy body which most women can only dream of.

Myostatin (also known as growth differentiation factor 8, abbreviated GDF-8) is another big reason females CAN NOT gain muscle size. Myostatin prohibits muscle growth and females typically have 10 times the amount of myostatin in muscle cells as do males. So combine the increased Myostatin and low Testosterone levels it makes it next to impossible for you to gain any male like size or characteristics that you see in the magazines. Trust me the women you see in the muscle magazines have been hormonally enhanced with testosterone. The only way a female can gain that type of size is by abusing her body with illegal drugs!

There are major benefits to having a little more muscle on your body.

Muscle burn calories naturally even when you are sleeping. In fact, research has shown that for each kilo of muscle you build, you will burn 70-100 more calories per day. So, if you gain 2 kilos of muscle and lose 2 kilos of fat, you will burn about 75 more calories per kilo, which equates to burning 150 additional calories per day, which translates into 4200 additional calories per month and ultimately results in a fat or weight loss of 7-8 kilos a year without doing anything! One kilo is 2.2 pounds. Doesn't that sound great?

Another reason that women should do weightlifting is the benefit it can have on your bones. Weight training is a powerful preventive action against osteoporosis, a disease caused by porous bone and low bone density. Women have a much higher risk than men to suffer from osteoporosis. In fact, most women will suffer from this disease as they age. Those plagued with osteoporosis have an increased susceptibility to fractures. These fractures can even be fatal. So, women should exercise with weight to strengthen and increase bone density. Research has shown that six months of weightlifting may increase bone mineral density by as much as 15 percent. As you increase your muscle tissue, your bones must adapt to accommodate this increase in your muscle mass, your bones respond by increasing in density. The result? You will own a stronger skeletal structure and a reduced risk for osteoporosis.

So, don't completely swear off weightlifting fearing that training with weights will build big muscles and turn you into an Incredible Hulk! You won't and you can't. Period.

OK girls, the weights are over there. Let's lift them now! Have the last laugh when your girl friends tell you that they don't want to lift weights and yet watching you transform your body that will make heads turn when you are in your bikini.

High Fructose Corn Syrup Linked to Kidney Stones: 5 Facts to Know

 

High Fructose Corn Syrup Linked to Kidney Stones: 

5 Facts to Know

 

A Message from our friends at The Global Healing Center

& 

Dr. Edward Group III

 

 

Since the late 1980s, HFCS has replaced regular table sugar, honey, and similar sweeteners. Prolonged consumption of HFCS is the topic of debate and, like other genetically modified products, may be bad for your health. A number of studies conducted over the past few decades indicate consumption of HFCS is connected with some health concerns.

1. Significant Risk of Weight Gain and Obesity

A study conducted by Princeton University ^[1], found that rats that were fed HFCS gained fat 300% more quickly than those fed an equal (or slightly larger) serving of fruit-derived sugar.

2. Increased Risk of Developing Type-2 Diabetes

Consumption of high-fructose corn syrup can lead to a huge increase in the likelihood of developing diabetes ^[2]. This life-long condition can be avoided in most cases. Excessive amounts of soda, energy drinks and junk-food aren’t worth losing a foot or going blind for.

3. Hypertension and Elevated “Bad” Cholesterol Levels

High-fructose doesn’t just make your body fat, it also makes your heart fat. There is a strong link between the irresponsible consumption of high fructose corn syrup and elevated triglyceride and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels ^[3]. Together, these can cause arterial plaque build-up and lead to heart problems including hypertension, heart disease, and even stroke.

4. High Fructose Corn Syrup and Liver Damage

This is a big one. Like anything else you eat or drink, your liver, gallbladder, and kidneys, processes HFCS. And it’s especially destructive to your liver. When combined with a sedentary lifestyle, permanent liver scarring can occur ^[4]. This greatly diminishes the organ’s ability to process out toxins and, over time, can lead to an expansive range of other negative health concerns. Another study suggests that HFCS may also cause fatty liver ^[5].

5. Mercury Exposure from HFCS

Did you know high fructose corn syrup is often loaded with alarmingly high levels of mercury? One study found mercury in over 50% of samples tested ^[6]. Mercury exposure can result in irreversible brain and nervous system damage – especially in young, growing bodies. Way too many foods aimed at children are LOADED with high fructose corn syrup!

Alternatives to High Fructose Corn Syrup

The dangers of high fructose corn syrup are both numerous and severe, if it’s in your diet, remove it. Some estimate more than one-third of the American food supply has been polluted by this trash. I urge you to read product labels and avoid those with HFCS. Replace HFCS with raw honey or Xylitol for sweetening needs.
– Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

1. Hilary Parker. A sweet problem: Princeton researchers find that high-fructose corn syrup prompts considerably more weight gain. Princeton University. 2010 March 22.
2. American Chemical Society. Soda Warning-high-fructose corn syrup linked to diabetes, new study suggests. ScienceDaily 23 Aug. 2007.
3. Jennifer K. Nelson R.D.,L.D. What is high-fructose corn syrup? What are the health concerns? Mayo Clinic. 2012 September 27.
4. Duke University Medical Center. High fructose corn syrup linked to liver scarring, research suggests. ScienceDaily. 23 Mar. 2010.
5. Laura G. Sánchez-Lozada, Wei Mu, Carlos Roncal, Yuri Y. Sautin, Manal Abdelmalek, Sirirat Reungjui, MyPhuong Le, Takahiko Nakagawa, Hui Y. Lan, Xuequing Yu, Richard J. Johnson. Comparison of free fructose and glucose to sucrose in the ability to cause fatty liver. European Journal of Nutrition. 2010 February. vol. 49 issue 1, pp. 1-9.
6. Dufault R, LeBlanc B, Schnoll R, Cornett C, Schweitzer L, Wallinga D, Hightower J, Patrick L, Lukiw WJ. Mercury from chlor-alkali plants: measured concentrations in food product sugar. Environ Health. 2009 Jan 26;8:2. doi: 10.1186/1476-069X-8-2.
   

 

EAT MORE - WEIGH LESS! Part 3, Conclusion

EAT MORE - WEIGH LESS!

 Part 3, Conclusion

There is one thing I hope you take from this article, you do not have to starve yourself to death to look good. You simply have to eat the right foods at the right time of day based on your activity levels for the next 3 hours. If you remember in Part 1 I spoke about the Golden Rule, "Eat for what you are about to do, not for what you have already done." The second thing I hope you will remember is, "Eating fats will not make you fat"! Eating the wrong foods at the wrong time WILL!

Here's what you need to know in order to establish you caloric requirements for the day.
1. Body weight
2. Lean body mass weight
3. Body fat % and lbs of body fat you carry.
4. Your body type (endomorph, ectomorph or mesomorph)
5. Daily time and activity chart
6. Gender
7. Age
8. Activity history and basic medical back ground.
9 Hydration level
10. Blood Type

I personally like to add a comprehensive blood panel to check for possible metabolic dysfunction or hormonal issues that may be causing problems.

Once you take in all the data you can sit down with a nutritional consultant and establish your daily BMR and calorie expenditure for the day. Once that has been established you can then design your custom nutrition program based on your needs and desire to obtain that lean stealth look.

Meals should be eaten every 3 hours, why? To keep your blood sugar stable and keep your muscles fed with protein.

The volume of food for each meal will be based on the type of activity you will have for the following three hours of your day. Too many carbs during an inactive time of the day is something you need to avoid, in fact lower calorie meals should be eaten before your periods of inactivity. Breakfast should always be no less than 1/5 of your calories or 20% for the day, get your blood sugar levels to normal range and get your metabolism running in high gear.

The highest calorie meals should be eaten before you most active periods of the day. IMO Protein consumption should be distributed evenly with each meal throughout the day, your carbohydrates and fats should fluctuate based on your energy needs during the day.

Another big tip: Take 1 gram of L-Glutamine with each meal and your hunger levels and cravings will all but disappear.

If you recall I also said I would discuss the fat intake today. What you are about to read may very well go against what your current nutritionist or personal trainer may recommend. So please discuss this with them before you change you eating program.

There are fats that in fact will speedup your metabolism and speed up fat loss. However it will require some disipline on your part to stick with the program.

Recent medical studies and several Universities have done extensive research on the use of fats 
to increase the metabolism and in fact turn on the fat burning machine within our body.



Some people struggle with weight loss simply because they are using the wrong foods for energy and we have ALL been mislead by the medical industry on how evil fats are to the human body, when in fact the truth is the complete opposite of what's been preached since the late 1960's. What I mean by wrong foods is simple, many people have digestive resistance to carbohydrates and in particular GLUTEN. You very well could be one of the millions of people that would do far better on weight management on a diet low in carbohydrates and higher in healthy fats.

Fact: Coconut Oil (in it's raw form) Is by far the healthiest fat you can possibly consume. Contrary to popular beliefs Coconut oil is 100% MCT oil and does not serve as an Omega 6 fatty acid. Too much Omega 6 can and will cause inflammation in the body. Coconut oil aids in reducing inflammation and also serves as an excellent energy source for the brain and yes even muscle tissue as well.
So if you think you may be sensitive to carbohydrates you really need to have your program constructed using fats in your meals over complex carbohydrates. The biggest group of people that benefit from a program like this are typically have type O blood but is not limited to just this particular group.

Coconut oil is quickly converted into an energy source called ketones. The awesome thing about ketones is they cross the blood brain barrier and feed our brain the valuable nutrients it needs to function normally. The second benefit is it turns on the fat burning furnace in our muscles.

The key to success is to maintain ketosis for extended periods of time and allow the body to burn the stored fats that are typically left untouched when carbohydrates are present in the diet.


I know I mentioned I would talk about caloric requirements and I did, I just did not give you any numbers or percentages just yet. The fact is every single person will have different needs based on their ten (10) question we ask when you visit us. Yes even the percentages of proteins to carbohydrates to fats will vary based on a number of factors. This is what makes your programs with us so unique. I often here people comparing notes on their diets and that get confused because what they are eating may be the complete opposite of what the next person is eating. There are just too many variables to give a base program that will work for everyone.

EAT MORE - WEIGH LESS! Part 2 of 3

EAT MORE - WEIGH LESS! 
Part 2 of 3

I left off yesterday making the statement that it's more calorie management than it is calorie restriction. 

The key to fat loss is to feed enough nutrients to the body so it will not feed on itself, maintaining normal blood sugar throughout the day and allowing the muscle to burn the fat. The basic rule is you must burn more calories than you eat in order to lose weight. TRUE, however it's more complicated than that if you want to lose just fat.

Here's where knowing what to eat and when to eat plays a valuable roll in fat loss. There are a million different diets out there and guess what there are a million that don't work! The key to fat loss is NOT a diet, it is a life style change and educating yourself on the proper foods and beneficial supplements that will make your fat loss permanent.

First and most importantly you must feed your body the proper amounts of protein throughout the day. Protein should be consumed in amounts proportionate to your personal needs.
For example; A 25 year old male with body weight of 215lbs and has a body-fat percentage of 12% can easily consume 25-40 grams of protein per meal where a female same age at 125lbs and 18% body fat should consume 15-25 grams of protein per meal.
The key is to keep the body in a positive nitrogen balance so your body will burn fat and leave the muscle alone. Eating to much protein at one sitting can cause your body to store the excess calories as fat. Not all proteins are created equal while some are excellent other proteins can cause health issues. That's why you should understand the Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) of the foods you eat.

I will be going into more details about protein assimilation at the seminar on March 20 at the Studio.

The next step is learning what the Glycemic Index is all about.

The Glycemic Index (GI) relates to the way your body’s sugar levels respond to certain foods. Foods are given a rating from 0 –100 on the glycemic index with glucose in the highest position. High Glycemic Index foods (such as simple carbohydrates) will increase the body’s sugar levels rapidly whereas low glycemic index foods will increase the body’s sugar levels slowly. A good understanding of the glycemic index can assist in weight loss and help control diabetes.

The glycemic index is complicated and cannot be generalised to all people. Different people will have different reactions to food. The body’s response to food will relate to several factors including; age, activity level, insulin levels, time of day, amount of fiber and fat in the food, how refined (processed) the food is, and what was eaten with the food. In addition to this, other factors such as the ratio of carbohydrates to fat and protein as well as how the food was cooked (eg. Boiled compared to fried or baked) and metabolism will determine the way your body’s sugar level responds after eating. Foods that have a low glycemic index will have little effect on the body’s sugar levels. Comparatively, foods that have a high glycemic index will have an instant affect on blood sugar levels. Ratings on the glycemic index have resulted from numerous studies; however, individuals should test their own reactions to food in relation to the glycemic index.

Here is a link to a Glycemic Index Chart online, although I do not agree with it 100% it is fairly close and will give you an idea as to how your blood sugar goes up and down based on the foods you eat.

http://www.glycemicindex.ca/glycemicindexfoods.pdf

As I stated before just counting calories does not work you have to know what the calories you are eating are doing in your body. That's why it's important to educate yourself on the foods you eat.

We will get into more details at the March 20 Seminar on Carbohydrates and their glycemic rating.

Tomorrow I will talk about healthy fats and how they can aid you in dropping unwanted fat pounds. I will also talk about the percentages of proteins, carbs and fats you should be eating (This will surprise you) and I will also talk about one of the most important things that most nutritionist leave out when they design a nutrition program for someone.

EAT MORE - WEIGH LESS! Part 1 of 3

EAT MORE - WEIGH LESS!  

Part 1 of 3

So many of us get so caught-up in losing weight we fail to completely understand the consequences of not eating enough food each day. You see it's not so much of caloric restriction as it is calorie management. So many times we feel like if I just stop eating I will lose weight. Well I wish it were that easy, if it were we would all be in great shape.

The trick to dropping unwanted body-fat may sound a bit confusing at first but once you understand how the metabolism works you will have a much better understanding.

Here's the facts

First we must understand why we eat and when we eat.

The obvious, "I'M HUNGRY" is NOT why you should eat. In fact if you wait until you are hungry you have waited far to long to eat and proper caloric management is disrupted.

(GOLDEN RULE: EAT FOR WHAT YOU ARE ABOUT TO DO, NOT FOR WHAT YOU HAVE JUST DONE)


I'm sure you've all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day....and this is true. But have you ever really wondered why?

Let's examine the word, "breakfast" separate the word and you have two words and it simply means, "break the fast"!

Most people will eat their last meal between 5-8PM and then we relax a while and typically go to bed between 10PM and 12AM. Then we sleep between 6-8 hours. In many cases allot of us have not eaten for 10-12 hours by the time we have gotten out of bed in the morning.

Understand this, if you have a healthy metabolism your blood sugar will be very low in the morning because you have not eaten for a long time. We are not always hungry simply because there is no caloric demand from waking up. Your body has been is a resting and rebuilding phase while you were asleep.

We all get our day started by waking up and hitting the floor with both feet just like everyone else does. But in many cases that's where the similarity stops. What everyone should do upon waking up is break the fast they have been in before they get hungry and keep feeding the body all day long so it never gets hungry and the facts are you will melt body-fat away.

However if you are like many Americans you will skip breakfast grab a drug called caffeine and get your day started with a stimulant. So let me tell you what happens when you chose either situation.

First lets go with the benefits of breaking the fast and eating breakfast.
1. (And this is KEY throughout the day) You will elevate your blood sugar to normal ranges. You see by not eating for 6-14 hours your glycogen storage will be low, yes you do still burn calories while you sleep. (I will get into that later) So it is important to get blood sugar into normal ranges first thing in the morning and maintain normal blood sugar levels all day long.

2. It prevents your body from going into the catabolic phase. Providing the body with proper nutrients upon wake-up will prevent the body from pulling nutrients from muscle tissue. You see our body behaves much like us, the last thing it wants to eat is fat, the nutrients your body craves are all found in the lean muscle tissue throughout our body. Once you blood sugar has bottomed out the body goes into starvation mode and will start wasting muscle tissue. The saddest thing about this over a long peroid of time is you are destroying your metabolism because muscle tissue and it's activity is the only thing that burns calories. Think about it for a minute, how many of you have had a steak with a ring of fat on the side and purposely eaten the fat first because you love fat? The answer is very few if any at all! The body acts the same way, just for different reasons. You see fat is our reserve energy source and if you do not feed the body the first thing that will happen is the body starts reducing its need for more calories by getting rid of the cause for more calories and that is your muscle tissue.
Here is the biggest problem we have, our body is very efficient at saving itself from us (LOL) by being able to store fat so easily and in many cases we are our own worst enemy and we aid our bodies into hanging onto stored body fat by starving ourselves.

3. Eating breakfast automatically elevates your metabolism for the rest of the day!

4. Eating breakfast also aids in brain function and sets the tone for a better day. Yes eating breakfast stimulates a hormonal release to energize your day.

The key is keep blood sugar in normal ranges and it becomes impossible to store body-fat.

Tomorrow I will explain why it's more calorie management than it is calorie restriction.

Here is what you will need to know more about.

1. The Glycemic index and how you can use it to maintain your blood sugar.

2. Proteins and the Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER)

3. Fats and their key role to a healthy metabolism

4. Feeding the lean body mass, not total body weight (your true BMR)

Food for thought, is resistance exercise the key to maintaining low body fat more so than cardiovascular exercise???

The top 4 Oils that should be included in your diet.

The top 4 Oils that should be included in your diet.

1. Coconut Oil: Organic virgin coconut oil is one of the best choices of good fat you can add to your diet. Coconut oil contains 90% saturated fat and is made up of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) which are easily digestible and can drastically improve your health. MCFA’s are not stored as fat because they are immediately converted to energy once in the body. This oil is also very good to cook with because it remains stable even under high temperatures. Coconut oil contains lauric acid (a known immune stimulant), is rich in fiber, and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Organic raw unrefined extra virgin coconut oil is the best to use and should be solid at room temperature.

Benefits of consuming coconut oil include: Weight loss, immune system support, cardiovascular health, increased energy, thyroid support, healthy skin, hair and nails, improved cell regeneration, disables fungus, bacteria and viruses, improves insulin secretions and protection against free radicals.


2. Hempseed Oil: Hemp Seed oil is derived from the seeds of the plant cannabis sativa. It provides all the essential fatty acids (EFA’s) and essential amino acids, structured in an easily digestible form to maintain human life. The oil is composed of 80% essential fatty acids, the highest in the plant kingdom. It contains the Omega 3,6 and 9 fatty acids. No other plant oil has a perfect 3:1 ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 EFA’s. Hemp seed oil is also great for vegetarians because it provides them with healthy fatty acids without having to consume fish oil. Hempseed oil is also rich in vitamin E and is the only plant which provides a source of Vitamin D.

Benefits of consuming Hemp Seed oil include: Cardiovascular support, natural sunblock agent, helps high blood pressure, reduces PMS, lowers high cholesterol, reduces inflammation, calms arthritis, soothes eczema, assists the brain and nervous system, produces healthy cell membranes, healthy skin, nails and hair, and can be used as skin moisturizer without clogging pores.



3. Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseed oil is extracted from the seeds of the flax plant. This oil contains 55% of Omega 3 fatty acid by weight. Omega-3 refers to three types of fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Once consumed, the human body converts ALA to EPA and DHA. This oil is also high in fiber and potassium. Flaxseed oil requires special packaging because it is easily destroyed by oxygen, heat and light. It is best to purchase organic flaxseed oil and keep it refrigerated to preserve freshness.

Benefits of consuming Flaxeed oil include: Helps crohns disease, colitis, soothes intestinal walls, natural laxative, reduces high cholesterol, promotes healthy hair, nails and skin, reduces symptoms of menopause and helps burn body fat.

4. Olive Oil: Olive oil has been used as a medicine and health aid since it was first cultivated around 5000BC. It is a monounstaurated fat and contains vital vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants. Olive oil has a large amount of vitamins A, D, and K, as well as vitamin E, which are key sources needed to prevent free radical damage. When purchasing make sure the olive oil is organic, cold pressed and extra virgin.

Benefits of consuming olive oil include: Promotes healthy digestion, protects against heart disease, eases symptoms of gastritis and ulcers, lowers gallstone formation and reduces high cholesterol.

High Cholesterol (Fact or Fiction) You judge for yourself. Part 2

High Cholesterol (Fact or Fiction) You judge for yourself. 

Part 2

"The cholesterol scare is big business for doctors, laboratories, and drug companies. It is also a powerful marketing gimmick for vegetable oil and margarine manufacturers.... In the end , cholesterol will be exonerated from its role as primary villain in cardiovascular disease. The accusing finger points at 'experts' who concocted the cholesterol theory to drum up business by spreading fear."--Udo Erasmus (Fats that Heal Fats that Kill)

THE CHOLESTEROL THEORY — A TRAGIC BLUNDER
Cholesterol in its natural form is one of the main building blocks of healthy animal and human bodies, the solid matter of our brains for instance being over 80% composed of it. It is absurd to say that something we are largely made of would be harmful for us to eat. And it is not harmful unless it is changed from its natural state by staleness. Cattle and goats develop arteriosclerosis on hay and grain with never a bit of food containing cholesterol. People are dying by the thousands from heart attack and stroke while on "low cholesterol" diet. The cholesterol theory, now falling by the wayside, was originated in Russia by Dr. N. Anitschkow and S. Chalatow in 1913. These scientists deserve honor for their well-intentioned work, however their finding was one of those unfortunate half-truths which only served to mislead. They fed their experimental rabbits pure crystalline cholesterol dissolved in vegetable oil, resulting in the rabbits developing arteriosclerosis. Their mistake was in failing to recognize that crystalline cholesterol is an unnatural stale substance now known as oxy-cholesterol, which is not found in fresh food or in the healthy human body. Similar mistakes have been made countless times by other scientists, using various unnatural mixtures of stale processed foods in feeding trials for testing purposes, and then assuming the choked artery results were typical of cholesterol foods. The cholesterol theory for practical purposes is untrue, and its formulation was most unfortunate because it deceived the world for fifty four years and indirectly caused untold deaths and misery by delaying discovery of the true cause and cure. Many people have needlessly been deprived of meat and eggs because of diets based on the deceptive Russian theory.

The Dangers of Statin Drugs (Lipitor & Zocor)

Over 13 million Americans are prescribed a statin drug with the most common side effect being muscle pain and weakness. But the second most common side effect is rarely discussed in the literature, and not listed in the package insert of any of the commonly prescribed statin drugs. It is known as "transient global amnesia (TGA)"—the sudden and temporary loss of memory.

Big business

To give you an idea as to just how widespread the use of statin drugs are, the most popular statin drug, Lipitor (produced by Pfizer), generates $9 billion in sales annually.

Statin drugs are now prescribed to 13 million Americans creating a $20 billion market in this country alone. There are an estimated 25 million users world-wide.

Statins are referred to as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and are designed to slow down your body’s production of cholesterol. These drugs are usually prescribed as a means of removing the "cholesterol build-up" from arteries and blood vessels. Examples of commonly prescribed statins include atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol), lovastatin (Altocor and Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Crestor) and simvastatin (Zocor).

Adverse effects: Like all medicines, statins can cause adverse side effects. Common side effects of these cholesterol-lowering drugs that are also listed in the package insert include:

1) Diarrhea or constipation; 2) Abdominal pain, cramps, bloating or gas; 3) Nausea and/or vomiting; 4) Headache; 5) Drowsiness or dizziness; 6) Muscle aches or weakness; 7) Flushing (skin turning red and warm) and 8) Sleep problems.

More adverse reactions: But there are also other adverse reactions that have been reported by a growing number of people prescribed statins. Research has shown that use of statin drugs:

1) Depletes the ubiquinone (vitamin-like) Coenzyme Q10; 2) Changes, weakens, damages or destroys muscle (depending on dose and concomitant use of other drugs); 3) Does not slow down or reverse arteriosclerosis—the main reason for the prescription; 4) Induces sudden total memory loss; 5) Increases eye cataract risk; 6) Suppresses immune function; 7) Is linked to the development of cancer; 8) Has been linked for 10 years with rhabdomyosis (disintegration of striated muscle fibers with excretion of myoglobin in the urine) and myoglobinuria (myoglobin is the storehouse for oxygen in the muscles—this condition is due to a lack of myoglobin); 9) Has been linked with elevated transaminase (an indicator of liver and kidney damage); 10) Is linked to nerve damage; 11) Induces muscle pain; 12) Shortens normal life-span; 13) Increases serum Lp(a) concentrations which actually increases odds of a heart attack or stroke by up to 70 percent; 14) Reduces left ventricular function; 15) Elevates the lactate to pyruvate ratio; 16) Enhances LDL cholesterol oxidation; 17) Interferes with any function that depends on cholesterol or Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) (e.g. sex hormone production, hair growth, sleep, or proper brain and nervous system function.)

High Cholesterol (Fact or Fiction) You judge for yourself. Part 1

High Cholesterol (Fact or Fiction) You judge for yourself.

 Part 1

Cholesterol-lowering drugs are the single largest business segment of the global pharmaceutical drug business. The global sales of the leading drug category – statins – have surpassed 200 billion dollars per year. This entire business is built on fear – the fear that cholesterol actually causes heart attacks. While this "cholesterol-scare" has become a gold mine for the drug companies – the economic burden of this business is ultimately carried by us, the people. Health professionals, political decision makers and hundreds of millions of patients worldwide have the right to know: What are the proven facts – and what is the fiction promoted by the multibillion dollar investment business with patented cholesterol-lowering drugs

True or False:
1. According to the medical industry High Cholesterol is the number one cause of heart attack.

A: If low cholesterol levels prevent heart disease, then victims of heart attacks should have high cholesterol. This is not so. Over half of all heart attack victims (those who suffer from heart disease) have low cholesterol. This logic is too simple. Highly educated folks totally miss this one. The statistics and evidence, disproves this myth.

Fact:

One of the most widely respected medical journals, the Journal of the American Medical Association, published a study entitled: Cholesterol and Mortality. 30 Years of Follow-up from the Framingham study. Shocking to most, this in-depth study showed that after the age of 50, there is no increased overall death associated with high cholesterol! There was, however, a direct association between low levels (or dropping levels) of cholesterol and increased death. Specifically, medical researchers reported that death rates increased by 14% for every 1mg/dl drop in total cholesterol levels per year. These results, and many others, have not stopped medical doctors from making blanket prescriptions for cholesterol lowering drugs to anyone with a heart beat

Cholesterol is one of the most essential elements in the survival of the human body. When the body begins to make more cholesterol, it has a reason to do that. It is certainly not to block the arteries of the heart, because we measure the level of cholesterol in the body in the blood we take out of the veins of the body, and nowhere in the history of medicine is there recorded one single case of cholesterol ever having blocked the veins of the body.

So, it is not the stickiness of the cholesterol that is the problem, which the drug industry is drumming it into the minds of people -- cholesterol is sticky, reduce it otherwise you will have blockage of your arteries, which is all nonsense. Cholesterol is actually saving the lives of people, because cholesterol is a bandage, a waterproof bandage that the body has designed. When the blood becomes concentrated and acidic, and is being rushed through constricted arteries or capillaries, in dehydration, then abrasions and tears are produced in the arterial system, naturally, in the capillaries of the heart first.
Now if cholesterol wasn’t there to cover up the tear and abrasions, blood would get under the membrane and peel it off and that person would be dead instantly. Cholesterol is actually an interim lifesaver, giving the body time to recover from its problems.

Here come the "STATINS"

These drugs ALSO show no correlation between drug-induced low cholesterol and the prevention of heart disease! Looking at 5 major statin drug trials, these being PROSPER, ALLHAT-LLT, ASCOT-LLA, AFCAPS and WOSCOPS, statin drugs provided an Absolute Risk Reduction in total mortality of 0.3%.
These facts go ignored. Medical doctors and drug companies hide the truth with complexity and obscurity via statistical contortionists. Don’t be fooled. It is the "spin" created by the media that has convinced the masses that these drugs prevent heart disease, not the science.
In reality, the only thing that cholesterol-lowering drugs do is lower cholesterol. Users will have to face the negative side effects of both the drug and of having low cholesterol. This is a crucial point! Combined, these side effects include, but are not limited to, lack of energy and sex drive, cancer, heart disease, and loss of short-term memory. That people have relinquished their health to cholesterol lowering drugs is a great reminder that advertising hype often supersedes common sense.

Dr. Nortin Hadler says he would sue any doctor who tried to test his cholesterol. Likewise, his bone density, prostate levels, colon cells, etc. The Harvard-trained doc, now in his sixties and a rheumatologist and professor of medicine and microbiology/immunology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, says you, too, should avoid these routine tests, as well as most angioplasties, bypass surgeries and routine mammograms. That's because -- contrary to what the medical establishment tells you -- the tests and procedures don't extend most lives, he says; they just convince healthy people they're sick.

Why you should never eat processed foods again!!!

Why you should never eat processed foods again!!!

Resisting the urge to drink that soda pop or eat those chips can be tough, especially if you have grown accustomed to eating these highly addictive foods as part of your normal diet. But once you understand a little bit more about how these and other processed foods affect your mind, body, and even your soul, it becomes easier to make healthier food choices that enrich your being rather than sap it. Here are nine motivating reasons why you should cut processed foods from your diet for good:

1) Processed foods are highly addictive. Your body processes whole foods much differently than it does refined, processed, and heavily-modified "junk" foods. Processed foods tend to overstimulate the production of dopamine, also known as the "pleasure" neurotransmitter, which makes you crave them constantly. Your body ends up not being able to resist the temptation to continue eating junk foods in excess, which can lead to obesity and other health problems.

2) Processed foods often contain phosphates that destroy your organs, bones. Many processed foods contain phosphate additives that augment taste, texture, and shelf-life. But these additives are known to cause health problems like rapid aging, kidney deterioration and weak bones, according to the Rodale Institute, which makes foods that contain them far less attractive to those in the know.

3) Fresh foods are actually cheaper than processed foods. People with junk food addictions often claim that fresh, healthy foods are too expensive. But according to numerous studies and assessments, whole foods made from scratch end up costing less per serving than their unhealthy, processed equivalents. According to Rodale, a single serving of 100 percent organic chili made with fresh ingredients and grass-fed beef, for instance, is about 50 cents cheaper to make than buying a can of chemical-laden, microwaveable chili from the grocery store.

4) Processed foods cause chronic inflammation. One of the leading causes of chronic illness today is inflammation. And studies continue to show that refined sugars, processed flours, vegetable oils, and many other nasty ingredients commonly found in processed foods are largely responsible for this inflammation epidemic. So the next time your body craves a candy bar or a box of cheese crackers, consider the fact that heart disease, dementia, neurological problems, respiratory failure, and cancer have all been linked to the chronic inflammation caused by processed food consumption.

5) Processed foods ruin digestion. Because they have been stripped of their natural fibers, enzymes, vitamins, and other nutrients, processed foods tend to wreak havoc on the digestive tract. Chronic consumption of such foods can throw your internal ecosystem off balance, harming beneficial bacteria and exposing your system to infection. So you can basically think of those gummy bears and that piece of cake as literal poison for your system, which may help deter you from eating them.

6) Processed foods destroy your mind. If you suffer from chronic bouts of brain "fog," or have difficulty concentrating and thinking normally, chances are your diet has something to do with it. And a recent study out of Oxford University lends credence to this possibility, having found that junk food consumption can cause people to become angry and irritable. Nutrient-dense whole foods, on the other hand, can help level out your mood, sustain your energy levels, and leave you feeling calmer and more collected.

7) Processed foods are loaded with GMOs. The basic buildings blocks of most processed foods on the market today are derived from laboratories, not nature. Genetically-modified organisms (GMOs), which have been linked to infertility, organ damage, gastrointestinal disorders, and cancer, are prolific in processed foods. Excess consumption of these poisons promotes weight gain, acidifies your blood, and can even permanently alter the composition and function of your intestinal flora.

8) Processed foods are loaded with pesticides. In order to effectively grow the GMOs used in processed foods, conventional farmers have to apply Roundup (glyphosate) and other pesticides and herbicides, many of which end up in the final product. According to data compiled by Rodale, breakfast cereals alone have been found to contain up to 70 different types of pesticides, including warehouse fumigation chemicals and other residues.

9) Processed foods are not actually food. One of the ways you can assess the nutritional value of food is to see how animals, insects, bacteria, and fungi respond to it. Real foods will actually rot or grow mold, for instance, while fake, processed foods remain largely the same in appearance and shape no matter what their age. As we reported recently, processed food is essentially synthetic, and the industry that produces it admits that heavy tampering and crafty modifications are necessary to make it taste real, even though it is not.

I know it's so easy just to pop food into a Microwave or drive though a fast food line at McDonald's many of us use the excuse that we don't have time to cook.
Well let me ask you this,"Do you have time to deal with cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure or a host of other diseases caused by eating these toxic foods?"

In the long run these foods are VERY EXPENSIVE, they ruin your health, and you spend a fortune trying to fix the damage caused by eating the toxic foods.

The Dangers of Drinking Soda Pop!

The Dangers of Drinking Soda Pop!

Some people drink soda pop as if it is water, some even instead of water. Sure, the primary ingredient is water, but, with all the other “stuff” it contains it can have a…toxic…poisonous…lethal…venomous… seriously harmful effect on your entire body. Drinking soda pop is a sure-fire way to age faster. Here’s why:

Soda Pop (or carbonated soft drinks) has an alarming amount of sugar, calories and harmful additives in it that have absolutely no nutritional value. Studies have linked soda to osteoporosis, obesity, tooth decay and heart disease. Despite this, soda accounts for more than one-quarter of all drinks consumed in the United States….and we wonder why we can’t lose weight and why we have health problems. So very often our health problems do not BEGIN on their own. WE encourage illness and disease little-by-little every day by NOT preventing their cause. We know better, we try to fool ourselves, but our bodies’ cells can’t be fooled about what we put in our mouths. I hope the next time you look at a can of soda pop you take note of the ingredients and smarten up for the good of your own healthy lifespan and that of your children and grandchildren. …What you are about to read should turn you away from sodas altogether.


Here’s what’s in Soda Pop:

Phosphoric Acid: May interfere with the body's ability to use calcium, which can lead to osteoporosis or softening of the teeth and bones. Phosphoric acid also neutralizes the hydrochloric acid in your stomach, which can interfere with digestion, making it difficult to utilize nutrients.

Sugar: Soft drink manufacturers are the largest single user of refined sugar in the United States. It is a proven fact that sugar increases insulin levels, which can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, premature aging and many more negative side effects. Most sodas include over 100 percent of the RDA of sugar.

Aspartame: This chemical is used as a sugar substitute in diet soda. There are over 92 different health side effects associated with aspartame consumption including brain tumors, birth defects, diabetes, emotional disorders and epilepsy/seizures. Further, when aspartame is stored for long periods of time or kept in warm areas it changes to methanol, an alcohol that converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, which are known carcinogens.

Caffeine: Caffeinated drinks can cause jitters, insomnia, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, elevated blood cholesterol levels, vitamin and mineral depletion, breast lumps, birth defects, and perhaps some forms of cancer.

Soda is one of the main reasons, nutritionally speaking, why many people suffer health problems. Aside from the negative effects of the soda itself, drinking a lot of soda is likely to leave you with little appetite for vegetables, protein and other food that your body needs.

How many sodas have you had today? How about your kids? The average American drinks an estimated 56 gallons of soft drinks each year, but before you grab that next can of soda, consider this: one can of soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar, 150 calories, 30 to 55 mg of caffeine, and is loaded with artificial food colors and sulphates.

Teenagers and children, who many soft drinks are marketed toward, are among the largest consumers. In the past 10 years, soft drink consumption among children has almost doubled in the United States. Teenage boys now drink, on average, three or more cans of soda per day, and 10 percent drink seven or more cans a day. The average for teenage girls is more than two cans a day, and 10 percent drink more than five cans a day.

It also raises the question of how one determines a product's caffeine content. Nutrition labels are not required to divulge that information. If a beverage contains caffeine, it must be included in the ingredient list, but there's no way to tell how much a beverage has, and there's little logic or predictability to the way caffeine is deployed throughout a product line.

Let’s take a look at some of the major components of a can of soda:

Okay, so most enlightened consumers already know that colas contain a fair amount of caffeine. It turns out to be 35 to 38 milligrams per 12-ounce can, or roughly 28 percent of the amount found in an 8-ounce cup of coffee. But few know that diet colas -- usually chosen by those who are trying to dodge calories and/or sugar -- often pack a lot more caffeine.

A 12-ounce can of Diet Coke, for example, has about 42 milligrams of caffeine -- seven more than the same amount of Coke Classic. A can of Pepsi One has about 56 milligrams of caffeine -- 18 milligrams more than both regular Pepsi and Diet Pepsi.

Even harder to figure out is the caffeine distribution in other flavors of soda pop. Many brands of root beer contain no caffeine. An exception is Barq's, made by the Coca-Cola Co., which has 23 milligrams per 12-ounce can. Sprite, 7-Up and ginger ale are caffeine-free. But Mountain Dew, the curiously named Mellow Yellow, Sun Drop Regular, Jolt and diet as well as regular Sunkist orange soda all pack caffeine.

Caffeine occurs naturally in kola nuts, an ingredient of cola soft drinks. But why is this drug, which is known to create physical dependence, added to other soft drinks?

The industry line is that small amounts are added for taste, not for the drug's power to sustain demand for the products that contain it. Caffeine's bitter taste, they say, enhances other flavors. "It has been a part of almost every cola -- and pepper-type beverage -- since they were first formulated more than 100 years ago," according to the National Soft Drink Association.

But recent blind taste tests conducted by Roland Griffiths at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions in Baltimore found that only 8 percent of regular soft drink consumers could identify the difference between regular and caffeine-free soft drinks.

The study included only subjects who reported that they drank soft drinks mainly for their caffeine content. In other words, more than 90 percent of the self-diagnosed caffeine cravers in this small sample could not detect the presence of caffeine.

That's why the great popularity of caffeinated soft drinks is driven not so much by subtle taste effects as by the mood-altering and physical dependence of caffeine that drives the daily self-administration.

And the unknown could be especially troublesome for the developing brains of children and adolescents. Logic dictates that when you are dependent on a drug, you are really upsetting the normal balances of neuro-chemistry in the brain. The fact that kids have withdrawal signs and symptoms when the caffeine is stopped is a good indication that something has been profoundly disturbed in the brain.

Exactly where that leads is anybody's guess -- which is to say there is little good research on the effects of caffeine on kids' developing brains.

Bone Weakening
Animal studies demonstrate that phosphorus, a common ingredient in soda, can deplete bones of calcium.

And two recent human studies suggest that girls who drink more soda are more prone to broken bones. The industry denies that soda plays a role in bone weakening.

Animal studies -- mostly involving rats -- point to clear and consistent bone loss with the use of cola beverages. But as scientists like to point out, humans and rats are not exactly the same.

Even so, there's been concern among the research community, public health officials and government agencies over the high phosphorus content in the US diet. Phosphorus -- which occurs naturally in some foods and is used as an additive in many others -- appears to weaken bones by promoting the loss of calcium. With less calcium available, the bones become more porous and prone to fracture.

The soft drink industry argues that the phosphoric acid in soda pop contributes only about 2 percent of the phosphorus in the typical US diet, with a 12-ounce can of soda pop averaging about 30 milligrams.

There's growing concern that even a few cans of soda today can be damaging when they are consumed during the peak bone-building years of childhood and adolescence. A 1996 study published in the Journal of Nutrition by the FDA's Office of Special Nutritionals noted that a pattern of high phosphorus/low calcium consumption, common in the American diet, is not conducive to optimizing peak bone mass in young women.

A 1994 Harvard study of bone fractures in teenage athletes found a strong association between cola beverage consumption and bone fractures in 14-year-old girls. The girls who drank cola were about five times more likely to suffer bone fractures than girls who didn't consume soda pop.

Besides, to many researchers, the combination of rising obesity and bone weakening has the potential to synergistically undermine future health. Adolescents and kids don't think long-term. But what happens when these soft-drinking people become young or middle-aged adults and they have osteoporosis, sedentary living and obesity?

By that time, switching to water, milk or fruit juice may be too little, too late.

Research presented at an American Diabetes Association gathering this summer found that women who went from drinking less than one, non-diet soda a day to one or more daily sodas were nearly twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes over a four-year period as women who drank less than one soft during a day. (The women who drank more soda also gained more weight over the same period.)

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism suggested that fructose, a sweetener found naturally in fruit juice and typically used in concentrated amounts in soft drinks, may induce a hormonal response in the body that promotes weight gain.

Soft Drinks, especially light-colored drinks, and canned iced tea appear to “aggressively” erode teeth enamel in laboratory tests—and it didn’t matter whether they were diet drinks or regular ones, according to a study published in General Dentistry.

The Dangers of Mono-Sodium Glutamate (MSG)

The Dangers of Mono-Sodium Glutamate (MSG)

One of my clients asked me about MSG this morning so I thought I would give you the down low on MSG today.

BTW Asian Food is typically loaded with MSG and many BBQ restaurants use it to season their meats as well. Always ask before you eat at one of these establishments.

The problems associated with processed foods continue to grow. Our overabundance of these items has left a society struggling with poor nutrition and overall health. Information on the food additive mono-sodium glutamate, or MSG, needs to be shared to protect the American family.

MSG is a flavor enhancer traditionally used in Chinese food, but found today in many foods like breakfast sausages and potato chips. Understanding the pitfalls of MSG can be very confusing. Glutamate is a naturally occurring amino acid that the body uses and needs. The synthetic manipulation and processing of glutamate produces a form that is not found in nature. Proven by studying many other areas, particularly hormone medications, attempting to recreate a product of nature often produces less than desirable results. MSG has been labeled an excitotoxin because it is thought to have the ability to overstimulate cells to death. Many people link headaches, flushing, poor attention and other symptoms, as well as diseases like fibromyalgia, to MSG intake.

Research on MSG has varied, and conventional medicine lacks in understanding what many patients have already found. Research has documented several effects related to MSG, including burning sensations of the mouth, head and neck, weakness of the arms or legs, headaches and upset stomach approximately 15 minutes after the MSG is consumed. Further research again points to problems such as flushing, headaches and hives or allergic-type reactions with the skin. Further research has shown that MSG causes inflammation in the gut and in particular the small intestine which leads to food allergies, crohn's disease, IBS and many other inflammatory diseases within the digestive system and has a strong impact on other inflammatory diseases like gout and arthritis. Due to the inflammation it causes in the gut it can also be a major factor in the cause of obesity.

MSG comes in many processed foods and snacks. Similar to high fructose corn syrup and partially hydrogenated oils, consumers need to get in the habit of looking for mono-sodium glutamate. MSG does not occur naturally in whole foods, so you do not have to worry about it in apples or bananas. Manufacturers are required to state if MSG is included in products on their food content label. Unfortunately, it might fall under different titles, making it very difficult to keep up with what foods contain the additive. www.MSGmyth.com lists other names for MSG, including mono-potassium glutamate and vegetable protein extract, and several additives that contain various amounts of MSG.

Everyone will not be affected the same by MSG, and perhaps some will experience no problems at all. The uncertain and somewhat frightening aspect of this compound is that it can cause a variety of symptoms over time that can lead to much greater, more permanent problems. It could also be argued that small amounts in any one food will not be a problem, but if small amounts are in several common foods that are consumed every day, the problem moves to a much graver scale.

My recommendation is to avoid the use of MSG completely. It makes food taste really good but when you add chemicals to foods you are doing nothing to benefit your health, in fact you are jeopardizing your health.

The Benefits of Eating Raw Nuts and Seeds Part 2

The many benefits of eating raw nuts and seeds!

Part 2

What's in these nuts and seeds that make them so good for me?

Nuts and seeds are concentrated sources of protein, fats, B vitamins, vitamin E, iron, magnesium and other minerals. Some of them contain omega 3 fatty acids and as such can help to improve the balance of cholesterol and the blood lipid profile and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Some people have difficulty digesting nuts and seeds and in this case, soaking them overnight initiates the sprouting process and improves digestibility.



They are best consumed in limited amounts if weight loss is desired or if digestive difficulties are present, however in these situations the nuts and seeds rich in omega 3 fatty acids (flaxseed, walnut, chia and pumpkin seed) may be beneficial as these fats can actually improve metabolism.

So here is a list of nuts and seeds and the nutrients found in each. Make sure when you purchase your nuts and or seeds that they are "RAW" and organic. Raw seeds IMO are better tasting than the roasted version and far better for you. Just remember to soak them first, in fact you can soak them is Sea Salt water if you have to have that salty taste to your food. Enjoy!

Almonds are very high in minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron and are the only nut that is alkaline forming in the body. According to Ayurvedic medicine, almonds nourish the vital energy of the body.
Almonds are also thought to contain a compound that is anti-carcinogenic and for this purpose it is recommended that six almonds are consumed daily.

Brazil nuts are rich in the sulfur containing amino acids and selenium. Selenium has an important function as an antioxidant and is involved in immunity.

Flaxseeds are the richest source of omega 3 fatty acids and thus help to improve immunity and reduce high cholesterol. When taken in the form of flaxseed meal they effectively prevent constipation and are a source of lignans – compounds that have antitumour and antioxidant properties. Flaxseeds also help to balance estrogen levels.

1. Hazelnuts are very rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, folic acid and vitamin E. Hazelnuts act as a general tonic and strengthen the stomach.

2. Macadamia nuts are very high in fat and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. However in moderation they can help to improve the balance of cholesterol due to their abundance of monounsaturated fats. They are also very low in carbohydrates and as such are suitable for low carb diets.

3. Pistachio nuts are considered a tonic for the whole body in Ayurvedic medicine. They purify the blood, lubricate the intestines and can be used for constipation.

4. Pumpkin seeds are known for their effects against intestinal parasites especially roundworm and tapeworm. Their high zinc content may explain the value pumpkin seeds for the treatment of impotence and prostate enlargement.
Pumpkin seeds are also a valuable source of omega 3 fatty acids.

5. Sesame seeds are very high in calcium and are a good source of magnesium, niacin, vitamins A and E, protein and unsaturated fats. In the form of tahini (sesame seed paste) they provide the richest and most bioavailable source of calcium.

6. Sunflower seeds are high in protein, unsaturated fats, phosphorus, calcium, iron, fluorine, iodine, potassium, magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin E and are one of the rare plant sources of vitamin D.

7. Walnuts are high in protein, iron and contain omega 3 fatty acids. They can reduce inflammation and pain, lubricate the lungs and intestines, and nourish the brain and adrenal glands.


As you can see there are many benefits to eating raw nuts and seeds. They are nutrient dense and loaded with great energy.

The many benefits of eating raw nuts and seeds!

The many benefits of eating raw nuts and seeds!

Part 1 of 2.

Raw nuts and seeds can provide you with a wealth of nutrients. They are loaded with protein, an abundance  of healthy Omega 3 fats and they are rich in minerals.  Another benefit of raw nuts and seeds are the enzymes they packed with.

1. Loaded with Enzymes.

Enzymes are proteins that cause chemical reactions throughout the body. They break down food, clot blood and are necessary for all bodily functions. Diets rich in enzymes cause the body to work more efficiently, which is why individuals who consume raw diets experience tremendous health benefits. All raw foods, including raw nuts and seeds, contain an abundance of enzymes, and these enzymes break down food and distribute their nutrients throughout the body.

2. Enzyme-Rich Nuts and Seeds

Pumpkin seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, hemp seeds, pecans, walnuts and a host of other nuts and seeds are full of enzymes while in their raw, natural forms. However, once you toast, roast, fry or boil them, their enzymes are completely destroyed. Pasteurizing nuts and seeds to extend their shelf life also destroys the enzymes they contain, and all of these processes dramatically reduce the nutritional value of nuts and seeds as well.

3. Digestive Enzymes in Nuts and Seeds

The body must work harder to digest foods without enzymes. Some of the digestive enzymes the body needs include gelatinase, pepsin, gastric lipase and gastric amylase. These enzymes help the gastrointestinal system work effectively by breaking large molecules down into simple molecules, allowing nutrients to be readily utilized by the cells. Because these enzymes are not present in cooked foods, the body uses excess energy during digestion, which can make individuals feel lethargic after eating.

4. Enzyme Inhibitors in Plant Foods

Raw nuts and seeds are plant foods that contain protease inhibitors, which can block enzyme function. Most plant foods develop these inhibitors to form a protective barrier against insects. Nuts and seeds will not break down into their simplest forms during digestion when protein inhibitors are present. Inhibitors also prevent enzymes from digesting proteins, which can cause a burden on the pancreas. To get the maximum amount of nutrition from the raw nuts and seeds that you consume, you must eliminate these inhibitors prior to eating them.

5. Soaking Raw Nuts and Seeds

The best way to destroy enzyme inhibitors is to soak raw nuts and seeds before consumption. Raw nuts and seeds are live foods that are likely to sprout or grow if you plant them. By soaking nuts and seeds, you awaken their life force, which will cause these inhibitors to break down. Each raw nut and seed requires a different amount of soaking time to eliminate inhibitors. Raw almonds and walnuts must soak for eight hours; pistachios and pine nuts must soak for two.

The Many Benefits of Eating Salmon.

The many benefits of eating Salmon.

This protein is loaded reasons to eat more fish.

Salmon is the common name used to denote the various species of fish belonging to the family of Salmonidae. Salmon is born in fresh water and it gradually migrates to the ocean. However, it comes back to the fresh water to reproduce. Since times immemorial, people have been using salmon as a tasty and nutritious food. The fish can be consumed fresh as well as in the form of preserved types, like smoked salmon or salted salmon. Today, most of the salmon comes from Alaska, Eastern Canada, The Pacific Northwest, Greenland and Norway.

Here is a detailed list of the many benefits of eating this awesome fish!

1. Salmon is rich in Omega-3, which has several health benefits to its credit. Its Omega-3 content, along with the niacin and vitamin 12, is extremely beneficial for cardiovascular health.

2. Omega-3 and the trace mineral selenium, present in salmon, have defensive action against colon, prostate and breast cancer.

3. The omega-3 in salmon helps in reducing depression and thus, keeps a person in good mood. Depression and stress are the principal causes that boost the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. As the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines increase, the depressive symptoms accelerate simultaneously.

4. Omega-3 improves the electrical properties of cells present in heart and is also defensive against the deadly abnormal heart rhythms.

5. The omega-3 present in salmon prevents obesity and increases the response towards insulin. It is also beneficial in reducing the formation of cytokines, which causes the inflammatory response lined with atherosclerosis.

6. Omega-3 helps in lowering the level of triglycerides, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases in case of its high accumulation.

7. The omega-3 present in salmon also comes into limelight for the protection it provides from both early and late age-related muscular degeneration.

8. Omega-3 is also known to have anti-inflammatory effects. It has the ability to protect the skin against sunburn and most possibly, skin cancer also.

9. Salmon, like any other fatty fish, is helpful against kidney cancer. It is effective in defending against renal cell carcinoma, which is the most common kidney cancer.

10. Consumption of salmon works effectively in lowering the risk of multiple myeloma, leukemia and non-hodgkins lymphoma.
Even a small amount of salmon fish is healthy for protection against digestive tract and ovarian cancers. People eating salmon have less chances of getting cancer in pancreas, ovaries, mouth, stomach, colon, rectum, esophagus and pharynx.

11. Salmon promotes the health of your heart, by accelerating the heart rate variability (HRV).

12. Salmon prevents and controls high blood pressure. It gives more protection against heart attack. It has a vital role to play in protection against ischemic stroke as well

13. Eating salmon helps prevent deep vein thrombosis. Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which blood clot develops in the deep veins of thighs, pelvis or legs.

14. Salmon also is protective against pulmonary embolism. Embolism is formed in case of the breakage of a part or a whole of the blood clot from its site of creation, following which it starts moving through the venous system. The condition in which the clot resides in the lung is called pulmonary embolism.

15. Salmon offers cardiovascular protection for postmenopausal women suffering from diabetes. It also facilitates better functioning of brain cells.

16. The risk of Colo-rectal cancer decreases to a considerable extent with the intake of salmon.

17. A person suffering from dry eye syndrome (DES) will find relief by eating salmon.

18. Salmon proves highly beneficial in destroying the Alzheimer’s plaques.

19. It also proves highly helpful in protecting against childhood asthma.

20. When cooked properly Salmon tastes great!!!!!

I know that's allot to think about right? Salmon is better at healing the human body than the drugs the doctor gives you.

Here's something to really think about....

Eating healthy foods like Salmon is so beneficial, yet so many people complain that eating foods like this is far too expensive.

Well yes and no, you see eating fast foods may be a little cheaper and much easier to obtain than Salmon, however the damage the fast food causes will cost you much more money in the long run. Fast food is poison to our bodies! You may not see the effects right away but the damage is happening and slowly but surely it will catchup with you in the long run.

Want proof?

Fact: Obesity is now an epidemic and along with that is cancer, diabetes and a host of other diseases and yes it's caused by the junk food industry.