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Jumat, 30 Mei 2014

What Are the Health Benefits of Red Palm Oil?

What Are the Health Benefits of Red Palm Oil?

Red palm oil supplies essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients essential for good health. Research suggests that a single teaspoon of red palm oil supplies the U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of both fat and vitamin A for children.

Nutrient Profile

    Red palm oil contains Linolinic acid, (Omega-6 fatty acid) and does not contain trans-fatty acids. It remains heat stable at medium and low temperature cooking. It also contains vitamin E and vitamin A in the form of carotene. In addition to vitamin A, red palm oil also contains more than 20 other carotenes (including lycopene), at least two forms of vitamin E and vitamin K, CoQ10, phytosterols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, glycolipids and squalene.

Health Benefits

    Red palm oil reduces hardening of the arteries, blood serum cholesterol and blood clotting. It also increases vascular dilation. These effects may prevent heart attacks and strokes. It contains chemoprotective effects, especially in the incidence of breast cancer cells.

Red Palm Oil and Vitamin A in Developing Countries

    Carotene (plant-sourced vitamin A) absorption is dependent on the amount of fat in the diet. Often, those in developing countries cannot absorb the vitamin A in their diet due to low dietary levels of fat. Vitamin A deficiency causes blindness, weak bones and immunological problems. Deficiency also decreases learning ability and mental cognitivity and causes other health complications.

Raw Red Palm Oil

    Red palm oil used for deep frying or clarified palm oil using heating or filtering methods strips away the nutrients found naturally occurring in raw palm oil. Red palm oil gains its characteristic color from the high amounts of naturally occurring carotenes.

Red Palm Oil Controversy

    While researchers suggest that red palm oil may assist in overcoming the worldwide food and nutrition crises, other research suggested by activist websites points to a growing controversy due to non-organic and fair-trade farming methods and deforestation for farmland. By 2009, smaller farms in impoverished nations started adopting organic and fair-trade farming methods.

Rabu, 28 Mei 2014

Olive Oil Side Effects & Benefits

Olive oil has been around for centuries and offers many benefits and few side effects. It can be used for cooking, housekeeping and as a personal beauty or health supplement. Daily intake of the right type of olive oil will even help prevent heart disease and can lower your risk of colon cancer.

Facts

    Olives are pressed to yield olive oil. The oil retains all the vitamins and nutrients of the olive, because it does not need processing. Once oil is pressed from the olive, it can be ingested as is.

    Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. The oil also contains high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) that are vital in controlling low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). LDLs raise your cholesterol level and can be harmful to your health, but HDLs keep these levels in check.

Health Benefits

    Because olive oil is so vital in controlling cholesterol, it is an excellent food to help prevent heart disease. Swallowing just 2 tbsp. of virgin olive oil each day for one week can noticeably reduce your cholesterol. By lowering your cholesterol, you can also reduce your blood pressure and your risk for Alzheimer's disease.

    Researchers have also found that olive oil can be very useful in reducing your risk of colon, breast and skin cancers. A diet supplemented with olive oil can be just as effective as a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

    Olive oil may also aid in digestion, relieve constipation, prevent hair loss, moisturize skin and promote healthy nail growth.

Household Uses

    Olive oil can also be a useful tool around the home. Olive oil rubbed into stainless steel pans can help prevent streaking or tarnishing on the pots and acts as a natural conditioner for the metal. Olive oil with a bit of vinegar and citrus juice acts as a substitute for wooden furniture polish. If you have a stuck zipper, simply dab olive oil on the teeth and work the zipper down. Adding 1 tsp. olive oil to your cat's food will also help prevent hairballs and give it a shiny coat.

Side Effects

    The only negative effect of olive oil, unless you are allergic to it, is that it can cause mild diarrhea if large amounts are ingested. But this can also be beneficial, as it acts as a natural laxative if you are constipated.

    However, if you are taking medications for diabetes or blood pressure, decrease your intake of olive oil. Olive oil reduces blood sugar and blood pressure. If you are taking medications for this and ingesting olive oil at the same time, your blood sugar and pressure may go too low, causing complications.

The Best Type of Olive Oil

    Many types of olive oil are available---extra light, light, virgin and extra virgin. The light oils are generally more processed and have less of the original nutrients in them. The virgin oils are oils straight from fresh pressed olives. Extra virgin means the olive was pressed once, and virgin means it was pressed twice. Extra virgin will always have more nutrients and more benefits for your health. Always buy organic olive oil if possible.

Sabtu, 24 Mei 2014

Is a High Protein Diet the Best Way to Lose Weight?

Ultimately, weight loss is determined by a caloric deficit, not specific macronutrient breakdowns. However, protein offers many benefits, from safety to health, and may make the weight loss journey easier. And of course, the most effective weight loss strategy for an individual is the one that works.

Benefits of Protein

    Protein, like fat, is an essential nutrient for the body. It is the building blocks for growth. According to diet and fitness expert Tom Venuto, author of The Body Fat Solution, protein is essential for maintaining lean muscle while losing weight. He offers two more benefits of a high-protein diet. Firstly, protein is thermogenic--they body has to work harder to digest it than fat or carbohydrates. Basically, the body would burn more calories and work harder to digest a lean chicken breast than a bowl of spaghetti. This fires up the metabolism. Secondly, protein such as meat and eggs are very filling--moreso than refined carbohydrates. That way, a person in a caloric deficit is less likely to experience hunger.

Protein and Low Carb

    When many people think of high protein diets, they also think of low carbohydrate diets. This is actually false. According to dietitian Cassandra Forsythe, a very low carb diet actually requires high amounts of fat and moderate protein consumption. However, most high protein diets accompany moderate carbohydrate plans--moderate as in below the RDA recommended 50 percent macronutrient ratio for daily carbohydrate intake. The author of Master Your Metabolism, Jillian Michaels, advocates a high-protein diet of 40 percent protein and carbohydrate and 30 percent fat.

Good High Protein Foods

    If one decides to eat a high-protein diet, the sources of the protein are important. The ultimate sources of protein are known as "lean proteins," according to Tom Venuto. His top sources for protein are lean meats such as chicken, turkey, fish, crustaceans, pork tenderloin and sirloin beef. Eggs are another high-protein food. Non-fat or low-fat dairy, especially cottage cheese and quark, also provides protein, as well as calcium. Whey isolate powder, derived from milk, is one of the purest sources of protein available, and is often used in protein shakes.

    Non-animal proteins, except for soy, are not complete proteins. However, so long as a person consumes different kinds of plant proteins, the various proteins will complete each other. The highest protein plant-based foods are beans like black, kidney, garbanzos, and lentils and nuts. Whole grains can also provide a decent amount of protein, particularly quinoa and amaranth.

High Protein Ideas

    A healthy high-protein diet includes breakfast staples such as omelets with vegetables, low fat cheese and even lean meat such as diced chicken.

    High protein lunches include salads topped with lean meat, or a meat paired with vegetables and a moderate amount of carbohydrate.

    A high protein dinner can include meat dishes, legumes or even eggs.

    Even dessert can be made high protein--Greek yogurt and cottage cheese have a very high protein level, and can be mixed with fruit, nuts and cinnamon for a tasty midnight munchie.

    Some choose to supplement with protein powder. Protein powder can be added to shakes, such as for after workouts, but can also serve to pump up dishes such as oatmeal, brownies and yogurt.

    When on a high-protein diet, one should be sure to consume high quantities of water to avoid dehydration, and to eat many fibrous vegetables and whole grains to avoid constipation.

Jumat, 23 Mei 2014

How to Create a High Protein Diet

High protein diets are all the rage, with numerous books, websites and weight loss programs devoted to the topic. Although increasing protein intake and limiting other foods can lead to rapid weight loss, some high protein diets are not healthy. To create a high protein diet that can help you achieve your weight loss goals and maintain your overall health, you must educate yourself about proper nutrition.

Instructions

    1

    Stock up on protein-rich food. Items high in protein include poultry, seafood, beans, nuts, dairy products and beef. Turkey, salmon, black beans, low fat milk and lean beef are among the best bets for high protein, heart healthy diet.

    2

    Control portion size. Eating too much protein-rich food can prove counterproductive. In general, your daily consumption of protein should be consistent with the following ratio: 1/2 to 2 grams for each pound of bodyweight. Ideally, you should limit protein intake to 1 gram per day per pound.

    3

    Read food labels carefully. Pay attention not only to protein content, but also to the amount of sugar, saturated fat and carbohydrates in your food. Some breakfast bars, for example, are high in protein, but are also high in sugar and other ingredients you want to limit.

    4

    Maintain balance. The American Heart Association does not endorse most protein-centered diets because they tend to be high in fat and often limit crucial dietary elements like whole grains, minerals and vegetables. Although you may stack your diet with protein-rich foods, remember to eat your vegetables, take vitamin supplements and consume whole grains daily.

    5

    Remember to exercise. Developing an exercise routine is a crucial element of any diet. To lose weight and effectively metabolize your relatively high protein intake, you must work out at least five times per week. Design a fitness program that includes cardiovascular, flexibility and strength exercises.

    6

    Supplement your diet. For protein on the go, purchase protein shakes, protein drink mixes and protein bars. These items come in handy when you're in a hurry and don't have time to prepare a meal; they often make a great snack.

    7

    Choose the optimum time to eat foods high in protein. To optimize weight loss, eat upon waking up in the morning, after your daily exercise session and just before bed. Instead of limiting your diet to these three meals, eat small "meals" throughout the day--approximately one every three hours.

Selasa, 20 Mei 2014

Three Day Cardio Diet

Three Day Cardio Diet

Most people would love to be encouraged to eat hot dogs and ice cream while on a diet. A popular weight loss plan promises you can do just that--and lose up to 10 pounds in three days.

History

    The 3-Day Cardio Diet--versions of which are also known as the Cleveland Clinic 3-Day Diet, The American Heart Association Diet and the Birmingham Heart Hospital Diet, among others--has appeared in various forms on the Internet for many years. Although the one-page diet may be promoted under a variety of names, all the plans have essentially the same menu and rules.

The Plan

    Dieters are instructed to strictly follow the menu for three days, followed by four days of normal eating. The plan does not mention exercise.

Menu

    Hot dogs are featured in ths diet's menu.
    Hot dogs are featured in ths diet's menu.

    The three-day eating plan consists of foods including vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage; animal products including cheese, tuna and eggs; and highly processed, high-fat items such as hot dogs and ice cream. Some versions permit substitutions such as frozen yogurt for ice cream; others proclaim that no substitutions are allowed.

Promised Benefits

    The plan assures participants that they will lose 10 pounds in three days and up to 40 pounds in a month.

Warnings

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, the American Heart Association and the Cleveland Clinic have disavowed any affiliation with this diet. According to UAB, it is a "potentially harmful fad diet" and is "high in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol--the main dietary culprits related to heart disease."

Senin, 19 Mei 2014

Vegetarian Sources of Vitamin B

Vegetarian Sources of Vitamin B

B vitamins are essential for healthy cell metabolism and, according to Dr. John Anne who writes for the American Chronicle, B vitamins maintain healthy skin and immune systems, manage metabolism and fight against a host of ailments including depression, stress and cardiovascular disease. B vitamins are comprised of thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), cyanocobalamin (B12), pantothenic acid (B5) and biotin (B8). Finding vegetarian sources of the B complex may be a bit more challenging, but plant-based vitamin B is indeed available.

Thiamine (B1)

    Vitamin B1 is important for maintaining the normal function of the nervous system and helps the body convert carbohydrates into energy. Great vegetarian sources of Thiamine are enriched cereals and breads, nutritional (brewer's) yeast, wheat germ, dry beans, peas, nuts, spirulina, eggs and pasta.

Riboflavin (B2)

    Vitamin B2 is essential for general health, growth, digestion and for the healthy maintenance of skin, hair, eyes and tissues. Dark, green leafy vegetables are an excellent source of riboflavin as are soybeans, almonds, mushrooms and cheese. Many cereals, breads and pastas are also fortified with riboflavin.

Niacin (B3)

    Vitamin B3 helps to maintain a well-functioning gastrointestinal tract as well as proper blood circulation. The best sources of vitamin B3 are beets, nutritional (brewer's) yeast, sunflower seeds and peanuts. Niacin can even be found in some herbs including cayenne, chamomile, alfalfa and peppermint.

Pantothenic Acid (B5)

    Vitamin B5 is essential for cell growth and reproduction as well as wound healing and the production of red blood cells. Most vegetables and fruits contain small amounts of vitamin B5, however, the best vegetarian sources are kale, broccoli, avocado, tomato, lentils and nutritional (brewer's) yeast.

Pyridoxine (B6)

    Vitamin B6 is important in the production of antibodies which help to protect the body against disease and infection. Great vegetarian sources of vitamin B6 include whole grains, bananas, carrots, spinach, walnuts and wheat germ.

Biotin (B8)

    Biotin is important for the maintenance of healthy skin and hair as well as the proper functioning of the nervous system. Excellent vegetarian sources of vitamin B8 include nutritional (brewer's) yeast, peanut butter, rice bran, legumes, sprouted seeds and cauliflower.

Folic acid (B9)

    Folic acid plays an integral role in the formation and growth of red blood cells, nerve cells and nucleic acid. Folic acid, or vitamin B9, is abundant in dark, green leafy vegetables including kale, spinach, bok choy and swiss chard as well as dry beans and peas, citrus fruits and orange juice.

Pantothenic acid (B12)

    Vitamin B12 is common in most animal products and the body is capable of storing fairly large amounts of it for later use, however, since B12 is not naturally available in plant sources, vegetarians may need to take a supplement to attain the recommended dosage. Nutritional (brewer's) yeast, fortified soy milk, tempeh, spirulina, and miso all contain small, yet reliable, amounts of vitamin B12.

How to Grow High Protein Foods

How to Grow High Protein Foods

Beans are one of the three best foods to obtain the protein necessary for your body to function, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Protein is good for your skin and bones. And it's possible to grow beans and other foods that are high in protein in your home garden. You can plant some items in your backyard, without need of an organized garden space by working small sections of soil around other plants. This is helpful when you do not have much space. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

    1

    Collect seeds that will provide you with foods that are high in protein. These should include a variety of bean seeds such as soy and navy, which have high levels of protein when they are mature. Plant other protein-rich foods like peanuts, broccoli and watercress. Grow peas, cauliflower and melon for variety. Ensure that the plants you want to grow will survive in your area. Figure out your hardiness zone by visiting the The United States National Arboretum online. Be sure the seeds are planted in the proper soil, where it will get the amount of sun recommended on the seed packet.

    2

    Prepare the soil and begin planting. Grow peas, for instance, in well-drained soil where water will not collect and sit for too long. Plant them as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. Plant the beans after danger of frost, but in the same soil type as peas. Place melon seeds or plants in soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5. Add compost to the garden if needed before planting -- and mulch, if necessary, once everything has a chance to start growing. Provide support in the form of trellises for plants that need them.

    3

    Tend the garden while your produce is growing. Be sure to weed the garden at least once a week, so the weeds don't remove nutrients the soil provides the plants. Water your garden once a day if it doesn't rain. Train peas and beans along the trellises by intertwining the vines in and out of the spaces provided to ensure that they have enough support to grow properly.

    4

    Harvest each type of food as they become ripe. Do so with soy beans once they are overly mature, just as they are beginning to dry. Pick the cauliflower when the florets begin to separate. Dig peanuts when they are mature, after they have lost their green color and the skins are thin and light pink in color.

    5

    Use the foods that you have harvested and stored as the protein basis for any number of meals, in place of meats. Most of these protein sources are also capable of being eaten fresh from the garden. Add these foods to salads, stews and casseroles.

Minggu, 18 Mei 2014

How to Complete the Master Cleanse Diet

How to Complete the Master Cleanse Diet

An average person carries around 10 to 20 pounds of toxins in their system every day. Many of these toxins cause minor help problems like fatigue, intestinal problems and constipation. The Master Cleanse Diet makes you feel healthier and also helps you lose weight. The Master Cleanse Diet is a great, natural way to relieve your body of these toxins and get you one step closer to healthier living.

Instructions

    1

    Choose a good time for you to complete the Master Cleanse Diet. Throughout the diet you need to be close to a restroom.

    2

    Take 2 laxatives the day before you begin the diet to clean out your intestines. This diet does not include any fiber so take a laxative or suppository once a day during the diet.

    3

    Mix your Master Cleanse Diet drink with the ingredients listed in the Things You'll Need section. Double the amounts of you want to make enough to last through a full 8-hour work day.

    4

    Drink the juice. Drink one serving every 4 hours, or sip on the drink over a 4-hour period. During the diet you are not allowed to eat or drink anything except for water and the diet drink.

    5

    Stay on with the Master Cleanse Diet 2 to 4 days, depending on your needs. The diet cleans your body of toxins through urine and bowl movements. During the diet, expect your restroom breaks to include a chemical smell. This is normal. If the smell persists after 2 days, try to stay on the diet for one or two more days to complete the cleanse.

    6

    Have a small meal after you have finished the Master Cleanse Diet. Instead of splurging, work your way back into regular eating habits by eating a light meal like a grilled chicken breast or a sandwich.

Sabtu, 17 Mei 2014

Mayo Clinic Heart Diet Before Surgery

The Mayo Clinic's Heart Healthy diet outlines 7 steps to prevent heart disease. However, a patient who already has heart disease and is going in for surgery will also benefit from making these specific dietary changes. Following these diet recommendations from The Mayo Clinic will help strengthen a patient's heart before surgery and promote improved heart health after their surgery has been completed.

Mayo Clinic Heart Diet Guidelines

    A very important step to take in improving overall heart health is to limit the intake of unhealthy cholesterol from the diet. This includes trans fats and saturated fats which are found in butter, margarine and shortening. These types of fats cause a buildup of plaques in the arteries, which ultimately increases the risk of heart attack and stroke due to the brain or heart becoming deprived of adequate amounts of oxygen.

    Heart-healthier fat options include olive oil, canola oil and trans-fat free margarine.

    When buying prepackaged foods, be sure to check for hidden unhealthy fats by looking for the phrase, 'partially hydrogenated' in the list of ingredients. Avoid eating foods such as bacon, cold cuts, fried meats and whole fat milk.

    Eating low-fat protein sources is also recommended by the Mayo Clinic. Some great examples include fish, poultry and lean meat. Eating certain types of fish such as salmon and mackerel are especially beneficial to the heart, as they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can actually lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

    Eating beans, peas and lentils as well as adding soy protein to the diet is recommended. Drinking skim milk instead of low fat milk is also encouraged.

    Low in calories and rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables should be included in abundance. The soluble fiber which they contain helps lower cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease. In addition, many fruits and vegetables also contain essential antioxidant vitamins which help prevent cardiovascular disease.

    Getting into the habit of using herbs to season foods is a good idea. Salt substitute may also be used in the place of regular table salt, which should be avoided. Healthy adults should eat no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt per day, which only equals 1 teaspoon.

    Practicing moderation is another important guideline set forth by The Mayo Clinic Heart Diet. A serving size of meat should be about the same size as a deck of cards. A serving of pasta should be about the same size of a scoop of ice cream. Save room on the plate for vegetables and whole grains. Various nutrients found in whole grains improve heart health and regulate blood pressure. Choose breads and pasta made with whole grains. High-fiber cereals are also helpful.

    To ensure continued success for healthy heart eating, The Mayo Clinic recommends planning daily menus ahead of time. Be creative and try to include a wide variety of heart healthy food choices in menu planning and resist temptation to grab an unhealthy snack.
    Beginning a heart-healthy eating plan before having surgery is a great way to get on the right track.

Instructions for the Day before Surgery

    No food, including gum and mints, should be eaten after 12 midnight on the night before surgery. Drinking beverages also needs to stop at midnight. Avoid swallowing any water when brushing your teeth.

    On the morning of surgery, dress in comfortable clothing. Women should not wear makeup or have painted fingernails on the day of surgery. Jewelry and valuables should be left safely at home or with the person who accompanies the patient to surgery. Be sure to bring along all necessary prescription medications to the hospital.

Kamis, 15 Mei 2014

Home Three-Day Detox Diet

With all the pollutants in the air and chemicals and preservatives in food, our bodies are bound to collect toxins. Although our kidneys, skin and liver are continuously working to remove harmful substances from our body, some toxins get stored in the fat cells in the body. A detox diet facilitates and speeds up the removal of toxins from the body. With busy schedules, a three-day detox diet is perfect for jump-starting the body's cleansing process.

Guideline

    A three-day detox begins with eating healthy, including fruits, vegetables, fiber and lean proteins into your diet. While adding certain foods is beneficial for nutrition, eliminating certain items from your diet is even more crucial to achieving the benefits of the detox. During the three days, eliminate caffeine, alcohol or other processed drinks/juices. Drink eight glasses of water each day for the three days; up to two glasses of fresh fruit juices can substitute as a glass of water. Do not over exert yourself, but take a 10- to 15-minute walk each of the three days.

Day 1

    Day 1
    As soon as you wake up, drink 2 tbsp. raw apple cider vinegar in an 8 oz. glass. Can add 1/2 tsp raw honey to taste. Do not consume anything for at least 30 minutes.

    For breakfast, have 2 tsp. ground flaxseed in 8 oz. glass of fresh juice. Eat one apple with the skin. Eat ten almonds without the skin that were soaked in water overnight.

    For lunch, have a salad with plenty of fresh vegetables and/or fruits. Nuts such as walnuts, pecans or almonds can be added. For dressings, use vinegars such as balsamic and extra virgin olive oil. Do not top with store-bought processed dressings.

    For dinner, consume 1 cup whole grains such as brown rice or 100% whole stone ground bread, with raw or steamed vegetables, and a lean protein such as organic chicken breast, tofu or wild caught salmon.

    Before bed, drink 1 cup chamomile tea.

Day 2

    Day 2
    As soon as you wake up, drink 2 tbsp. raw apple cider vinegar in an 8 oz. glass. Can add 1/2 tsp raw honey to taste. Do not consume anything for at least 30 minutes.

    For breakfast, have 1 cup all natural oatmeal mixed with water. Top oatmeal with 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground flaxseed, fresh blueberries and walnuts.

    For lunch, have a salad with plenty of fresh vegetables and/or fruits. Nuts such as walnuts, pecans or almonds can be added. For dressings, use vinegars such as balsamic and extra virgin olive oil. Do not top with store-bought processed dressings.

    For dinner, consume 1 cup whole grains such as brown rice or 100% whole stone ground bread, with raw or steamed vegetables, and a lean protein such as organic chicken breast, tofu or wild caught salmon.

    Before bed, drink 1 cup chamomile tea.

Day 3

    Day 3
    As soon as you wake up, drink 2 tbsp. raw apple cider vinegar in an 8 oz. glass. Can add 1/2 tsp raw honey to taste. Do not consume anything for at least 30 minutes.

    For breakfast, have 1 tsp. ground flaxseed and 2 tsp. organic granola on 1 cup all natural yogurt containing live cultures. Can add blueberries, banana, apple or strawberries.

    For lunch, have a salad with plenty of fresh vegetables and/or fruits. Nuts such as walnuts, pecans or almonds can be added. For dressings, use vinegars such as balsamic and extra virgin olive oil. Do not top with store-bought processed dressings.

    For dinner, consume 1 cup whole grains such as brown rice or 100% whole stone ground bread, with raw or steamed vegetables, and a lean protein such as organic chicken breast, tofu or wild caught salmon.

    Before bed, drink 1 cup chamomile tea.

How to Meditate for Kapha Ayurveda Mind-Body Type

There are 3 mind-body types in Ayurveda, the 5,000-year-old science from India. Ayurveda, literally, science of life, provides guidance on diet and how to treat diseases. Kaphas are cow-like in the best sense: steady, calm, good-natured, slow to act but also slow to anger. Deliberate in their speech and generally patient, Kaphas draw small children to them. Meditation with pranayama (breath work) can help Kaphas jump-start their slow metabolism and allow them to observe themselves in a non-judgmental way.

Instructions

    1

    Sit comfortably in a chair so that your spine is elongated and tall. With feet flat on the floor, keep the chest well-lifted. Do not let the body sag as it will make you sleepy. Continue with breath work that is heating and can boost agni fire, the digestive fire needed to reduce kapha stagnation . Ayurveda believes ama, or toxins, build when we overeat and cannot digest properly.

    2

    Practice kalabhati breathing which translates as breath of fire. Inhale through the nose and exhaling through the nose with a short exhale to make a short snorting sound. As you do that, draw the belly button in powerfully. Practice 3 to 5 rounds. Continue with the full kalabhati breath. Inhale through the nose and exhale sharply through the nose as you draw the center of the belly inwards, in a pumping action. Continue to pump the breath and exhale through the nose making the snorting sound until you need to inhale once more. Only do 7 to 10 rounds.

    3

    Continue with the full kalabhati breath. Inhale through the nose and exhale sharply through the nose as you draw the center of the belly inwards, in a pumping action. Continue to pump the breath and exhale through the nose making the snorting sound until you need to inhale once more. Only do 7 to 10 rounds.

    4

    Rest by taking several recovery breaths of normal inhalations and exhalations. Kalabhati is designed to create this internal agni fire for digestion. At the same time, it also exercises the abdominal muscles, rectus abdominus.

    5

    Proceed into meditation: close the eyes, breathing normally in and out through the nose rhythmically. Picture in your mind a spot in nature that you find inviting and invigorating. It may be a ski slope for sledding or a woody path to jog to a quiet pond. Fine tune your visualization by adding the sounds and scents of the scene around you. Allow all of your senses to be involved while you enjoy your respite in nature. Remain here for 15 to 20 minutes.

    6

    End your meditation by bringing your mind back to your present surroundings: feel the chair you are sitting in, the floor or cushion below your hips. Stretch through your arms and legs to activate your awareness fully and deepen your breath. Open your eyes and return to the rest of the day.

Skin Detox Diet

For people who want clear, beautiful skin, they can need more than just adding chemicals and ingredients found in many facial creams and cleansers to the skin. A skin detox diet used to purify the body both internally and externally can be done with a detox cleanse or fasting period in order to remove built-up toxins. Improving the skin's appearance is actually something that needs to be done from the inside as well as the outside.

Food to Avoid

    The food and chemicals we eat often show up on our skin. Pimples, oiliness, wrinkles and dryness are all a result of what we put in our bodies, and they can be helped with better nutrition. When we consume a diet full of processed, high sugar or fatty foods, the body works harder at getting rid of them than it does at creating new, healthy and vibrant skin cells. The organs responsible for toxin elimination--the colon, kidney and liver--are often overwhelmed with them, so the body removes any excess through the pores, causing clogging, breakouts, redness and skin irritation. To detox the skin, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and get at least 64 oz of water each day. Refrain from consuming vegetable oils, caffeine, refined carbohydrates, alcohol and sugar to begin detoxing the skin and receiving a more healthy appearance.

Food and Supplements

    While detoxing the body, it is important to still supply it with proper vitamins and minerals for skin health. Taking antioxidant supplements will help the fight against free radicals, which cause cancer and harm healthy cells. Consume fruits and vegetables primarily for a day or two to begin the detox, and add fish into the diet instead of red meat. Omega-3 oils from fish are healthy for the organs as well as the skin. Vitamin A from butter or cod liver oil and zinc from eggs and seeds are beneficial for the skin, as well as Vitamin B-12, which helps the body deal with stress. Vitamin C helps build and renew collagen, while vitamin E offers the body plenty of antioxidant support. Magnesium and manganese are minerals that help the liver in the detox process.

Cleansing

    During a detox, keep the skin clean of dead skin cells and remove toxins that have been expelled from the body. Brush or wipe down the body two or three times a day, and use a soft washcloth to wipe down the face. Use a sauna or steam room to help expel excess toxins from the body, or take frequent hot showers. In many instances of detoxification, symptoms can get worse before they improve, but they should never last more than a week. If they do, seek a doctor's opinion to make sure the body is able to handle a detox period.

Bentonite Clay Detox

Colon health is imperative because if waste becomes clogged in this organ it will back up into the body. This may overload the body with toxins and make you ill. The digestive system naturally cleans the area to keep it functioning properly. Unfortunately, which the availability of junk food full of preservatives in our fast-paced world, there is too much stress put on the body and colon. Trying a detoxification to help the colon eliminate excess waste is safe and effective if you drink ample water to keep yourself hydrated.

Bentonite Clay

    Bentonite clay can be used as an effective colon cleanser. Consuming clay will eliminate toxins and other indigestible matter built up in the colon over time. The clay sucks the toxins up like a sponge and then passes though the body. This method has been around for over thousands of years in some African, South American, and Australian cultures. These people found natural clay in the soils and ingested them to increase their health, because they realized it made them feel better.

Detox

    Purchase liquid calcium bentonite clay which can be found online, or from an alternative medicine practitioner. Each morning, before you eat anything, orally consume 1 tbsp. of the clay mixed with applesauce. The applesauce makes it easier to go down. Use organic applesauce for increased health benefits. Drink at least 8 cups of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. After a week you can increase the dose to 2 tbsp. After two weeks, if combined with a healthy lifestyle, you should feel a marked improvement in your health and well-being. You may have more energy, sleep better, and your bowel movements should become regular.

More Benefits to Clay Detox

    Bentonite clay is an alkaline substance. When ingested, the clay neutralizes the body's acidity, reducing heartburn and stomach ulcers. Clay will absorb and help the body expel internal parasites and metals in the bloodstream, in addition to toxins.

    Bentonite clay can also be made into a paste with an adhesive substance. Try honey because it has additional skin benefits, and apply the paste over the entire body. The clay may work to absorb toxins through the pores of the epidermis. Try this paste after opening pores in a hot bath or sauna.

Senin, 12 Mei 2014

Cognition Skills on a Protein Diet

The benefits of a high-protein, low-carb diet are significant. When you choose lean, high-quality proteins, heart-healthy fats and fewer carbohydrates -- especially from refined grains -- you'll lose weight more easily, improve your heart health and have better-looking skin, hair and nails. On the downside, research shows that a high-protein diet isn't as good for your cognitive skills as one higher in carbohydrates.

If you want to enjoy all the benefits of a high-protein diet and still be smarter than your friends, you can use the strategies here to stay sharp.

Exercise and Better Cognition

    The connection between physical fitness and your mental capabilities is well-established. The more you exercise, the sharper you'll stay. People who make exercise part of their regular routine are able to analyze and retain complex information faster and better. Exercise promotes a better memory and improves your reasoning skills.

    When it comes to the best kind of exercise, any exercise at all is better than none. Researchers have found that among older adults, people who didn't exercise had the lowest scores on tests designed to measure cognitive ability.

    A varied exercise plan is good. You want to get your heart pumping, but you also want to strengthen your muscles and improve your flexibility. That means combining some cardio, some resistance training and some stretching or yoga.

    When you're on a high protein diet, a regular exercise routine will do more than just boost your cognitive ability. It will also help you lose weight and build muscle, so you'll get multiple benefits.

Hobbies that Make You Smart

    Your brain is like a muscle. You need to work it out regularly to keep it in shape. That means finding activities that are challenging and that you enjoy. The best brain-boosting hobbies are those that combine physical, mental and social aspects. Ballroom dancing, golf and orienteering are all good hobbies that will increase your brainpower.

    Taking up a hobby that is purely a mental challenge is good, too. You might start working the crossword puzzle each day, learn to play an instrument or study a foreign language.

Brain-Boosting Supplements

    You can also support your cognitive ability by taking a number of brain-boosting supplements. Most of these supplements have the added benefit of giving you extra energy that will help you take full advantage of your high-protein diet, too.

    Phosphotidyl serine, ginkgo biloba and vinpocetine are three of the best supplements for enhancing mental clarity and cognitive function.

    Phosphotidyl serine supports the health and activity of your brain cells. It makes them communicate and function better. Gingko biloba and vinpocetine help to increase blood flow to the brain. Better blood flow means more oxygen, and when your brain gets more oxygen, you feel more alert and clearheaded.

    With careful planning, you can take full advantage of the health benefits of a high-protein diet and still build your brainpower.

Jumat, 09 Mei 2014

High Fiber Vegetarian Diet Plan

A vegetarian-based diet is the perfect way to meet daily fiber requirements. Plant sources deliver soluble fiber to your system which dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance in your body. This material aids in keeping your organs healthy and decreases your chances of getting certain cancers. It also lowers blood pressure and keeps your heart healthy.

Vegetables with the Most Fiber

    The American Heart Association recommends that you should eat 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories you consume. Legumes, beans and peas are the most fiber dense foods you can find. 180 grams of dried or boiled chick peas, for example, have nearly 20 grams of fiber, and one cup of peas has six grams. In addition to fiber, legumes are also packed with protein which provides a more balanced meal if you are a vegetarian.

    Other fiber-based vegetables include figs, spinach, kale, carrots and broccoli. Eat these vegetables cooked or raw; however, eating raw food may be healthier because it maintains more fibrous components. Cooking food disrupts the molecular structure and slightly lowers the benefits.

Health Benefits

    One health benefit of a high fiber, vegetarian diet is weight reduction. High fiber diets make you feel fuller for a longer period of time. You are also less likely to eat additional calories when your stomach is full. Vegetables are naturally low in calories and fat so you can eat more and feel full sooner.

    High fiber vegetables also lower your risk of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. The soluble fiber found in beans and flaxseed lowers the lipoprotein levels otherwise know as the "bad" cholesterol.

    A high fiber vegetable diet is especially helpful for diabetics because it slows sugar absorption and can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Your risk for digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and hemorrhoids is also greatly reduced.

High fiber vegetable recipes

    Hummus is a delicious way to get fiber into your diet, especially when its partnered with raw, cut vegetables. Chick peas provide the base for hummus. Combine four cloves of minced garlic, two cups of canned chickpeas with liquid, 1/3 cups tahini, 1 teaspoons kosher salt and six tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Blend in food processor and chill. Serve with fresh, sliced carrots, celery, broccoli and zucchini.

    Another high fiber recipe is pan seared vegetables topped flaxseed. Wash and cut two cups of your favorite vegetable and set aside. In an oven-safe skillet, combine two tablespoons of olive oil, three cloves of minced garlic and a dash of sea salt. Add your vegetables and bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. When your vegetables are cooked, remove from the oven. Grind teaspoon of flaxseed. Sprinkle over the top of your vegetable mixture and pour into a serving dish.

Kamis, 08 Mei 2014

High Protein, Low Cholesterol Diet

Protein is needed by the body to repair and renew cell growth. Protein is found mostly in meat products but a diet rich in meat can also be high in cholesterol. To make for a healthy diet, there are meat and plant sources available that offer high protein and low cholesterol.

Choosing Meats High in Protein and Low in Cholesterol

    There are a variety of meat sources to offer high protein, but choosing those that are also low in cholesterol narrows the list. Select skinless turkey breast for the leanest meat choice in both fat and cholesterol content. Lean chicken breast is also a good alternative to turkey. Salmon provides protein and omega-3 essential fatty acids that lowers cholesterol levels. The recommended portion size for meat and fish is 2 to 3 oz.

    For protein without the cholesterol, egg whites are the perfect option.

Choosing Vegetables High in Protein and Low in Cholesterol

    Vegetarian options are plenty for high protein and low cholesterol. One cup of kidney beans provides about 13g of protein and no cholesterol. One cup of whole grain cornmeal has about 10g of protein and no cholesterol. Soy, which is high in protein also contains cholesterol reducing properties and fights against heart disease. Two tablespoons of peanut butter contains the recommended protein content and low cholesterol. Tofu and low-fat cheese are also high in protein and low in fat.

Milk Protein Diet

The milk protein diet might be a good way to lose weight if you remember to also eat fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins, such as fish, poultry and lean cuts of beef, legumes and low-fat dairy. It is also a good idea to consume low-fat milk to reduce risk of heart disease. However, you should resist fad diets of eating only milk protein drinks and little else. Doing that will not provide the important vitamins, minerals and fiber you find in a varied diet.

Getting Enough Protein

    Generally, most adults require about half their body weight in grams. For example, if you weigh 160 lbs., try to consume about 80 grams of lean protein. A cup of milk has about 8 grams of protein. Two percent milk has 125 calories per cup. The United States Recommended Daily Allowances (USRDA) suggests that most healthy adults consume 3 cups of low-fat milk per day.

Benefits of Low-Fat Milk Protein

    Why low-fat milk protein? If you want to lose weight, it is important to preserve lean muscle tissue. This muscle will enable you to exercise and burn calories, boosting metabolism. Keeping high-quality protein in the diet will help to preserve lean muscle tissue. High-quality protein includes low-fat milk, eggs and lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, legumes and low-fat dairy. If you eat a diet that includes fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains such as oats, millet, brown rice, quinoa and lean proteins, you will also get important fiber, vitamins and minerals that will help keep cravings at bay.

Low-Fat Dairy

    Consuming low-fat dairy keeps the heart healthy by reducing the consumption of cholesterol in cow's milk fat. Even pediatricians do not recommend cow's milk for children under the age of one year. If you do not really like the taste of cow's milk, consider eating low-fat yogurt, which is also easier to digest. Milk protein powder drinks are flavored and can be mixed with fruits and juice to make them more palatable and easy to prepare for a quick breakfast drink or low-calories, high-protein snack before a workout. Remember to not eliminate entire food groups while you diet. Doing that makes it easy to overeat as you did not eat rice or pasta, for example.

Rabu, 07 Mei 2014

Why Do Low-Carb High-Protein Diets Work?

Diets that emphasize low carb and high protein, like the Zone and Atkins diet, might "work" by causing temporary weight loss. Other considerations, like overall health and nutrition, should be factored in---any diet that allows little to no carbohydrates can be very problematic for overall health.

Overview and Goal of the Diet

    Low-carb high-protein diets restrict eating carbs such as bread, cookies, and other simple carbs high in sugar like candy and even fruit. Dieters in turn eat as much as 50 percent of their food in the form of high protein foods. They also eat vegetables. Author Melina Jampolis explains in her book, "The No Time to Lose Diet," that the goal of the diet (not advocated by the author), is to lose weight, stabilize blood sugar levels and suppress the appetite.

Acceptable Diet Foods

    Protein foods like meat, eggs, tofu and soy products are encouraged on this diet. Vegetables include leafy greens, broccoli, squash, zucchini and others. A common meal on this diet could be a vegetable stew with beef, a salad with chicken, or a steak with a side of vegetables. For a comprehensive list of foods, see Resources below. No fruits or complex carbs are on the list.

How the Diet Makes You Lose Weight

    Simple carbs from white bread and candy are high in calories, but empty in nutritional value. Eliminating these foods means a reduction in calorie intake, which causes weight loss. If the body has enough nutrients like minerals and vitamins, it will feel fuller for longer, which can prevent hunger pangs. Some nutritional needs are met on this diet: a diet high in protein ensures your body has enough nutrients to sustain blood cells, keep skin healthy, and repair muscles. Vegetables support the body by providing vitamins and minerals like manganese, calcium, zinc, iron and magnesium.

Why the Diet Can be Unhealthy

    One primary concern of the diet is the risk of going into ketosis. Ketosis occurs when the body does not have enough energy from glucose. If the body cannot receive sugar, found primarily in carbs, then the body gets glucose from fat stores. Proponents advocate a low-carb diet for this reason. However, after fat stores are depleted, the body begins eating away at muscles, organs, and finally shuts down from lack of fuel. The book "Controversies in Food and Nutrition" outlines other problems: high levels of uric acid in the body resulting from too much protein can cause gout, a loss of calcium and a decrease in bone density.

Why Carbohydates are Important

    Carbohydrates are important to preventing ketosis. By having an ample supply of glucose for the body to use as fuel, the body does not have to resort to other sources. Secondly, many carbohydrates are very healthy. Whole grains provide B vitamins and regulate the release of insulin. In turn, whole grains stabilize metabolism. Fruits are rich in antioxidants and fiber, along with affording the body a source of sugar that is released gradually.

Considerations

    Assess each food based on its nutritional properties: some protein sources, like swordfish, might be high in protein, but swordfish also contains high levels of mercury. Some protein sources, like tofu, contain no cholesterol and are low in fat. Similarly, carbs like doughnuts might be high in sugar and trans fats, but other carbs are low in sugar and low-fat, like cherries. A healthy diet contains foods from each food group.

Cardiac Rehab Diet

A well balanced diet is essential, especially if you are recovering from heart surgery. Anyone who has been diagnosed with cardiac problems should learn to eat a diet that is rich in nutrients and low in fat. Eating a cardiac rehab diet will make you feel much better and will help you live a longer life. It will be challenging to learn new ways of cooking and eating, but you will get the hang of it soon. You just have to learn a few different habits when it comes to grocery shopping and cooking your foods.

Watch Fat in Your Diet

    It is critical that the cardiac patient stays away from foods high in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol. These foods are the enemy of a good heart. Saturated fats raise the level of cholesterol in your blood, thereby raising the risk of heart disease and stroke. The majority of saturated fats come from animal foods, such as fatty beef, pork, lamb, poultry with skin, lard, cream, butter and whole milk products. These foods contain cholesterol, too. Many baked and fried foods contain saturated fat, as well. The American Heart Association limits the intake of saturated fats to 7 percent of your total calories. Trans fats are also very dangerous for your heart. French fries, doughnuts, piecrusts, biscuits, cookies, crackers, stick margarines and shortenings are some foods that contain trans fats.

Fruits And Vegetables

    A cardiac rehab diet will include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals and are high in fiber.A diet high in soluble fibers, which is found in fruits and vegetables, actually helps lower your cholesterol and will reduce the risk of heart disease. Keep cauliflower, carrots and broccoli cut up and ready to eat at all times. This will make it easier for you to eat healthy. Instead of grabbing the meat and cheese from the refrigerator, grab that container of fresh vegetables. Choose food that contains vegetables as the main ingredient for your meals, like stir-fry or a chef salad. Make sure you do not heap butter or high-fat sauces on your vegetables. Eat an apple or a peach for dessert or snack.

Protein is a Must

    Protein is another important part of a heart healthy diet. When choosing your meats, make sure they are high in protein and low in fat. Choose prime cuts of beef instead of fatty cuts. Include legumes, peas and beans because they are a high source of protein and do not contain cholesterol. Fish is another great source of protein. Cod, tuna and halibut have little fat in them. Eating a diet that is beneficial to your heart health will take dedication and practice, but it is an attainable goal.

Selasa, 06 Mei 2014

Kidney Detox Diet

The kidneys are responsible for helping to filter waste that accumulates in the body. Healthy kidneys function by getting rid of liquids and toxins on a regular basis. Kidneys may not function properly if they have a toxic buildup, which might lead to conditions such as kidney stones. A kidney detox diet will aid the bladder by cleansing toxic buildup and promoting optimal elimination.

H2O

    Drink water that has been purified through filtration or other means to cleanse the kidneys. You should consume at least 2 liters of water daily to thoroughly clean the bladder of any buildup. Fasting for a few days will also aid in promoting movement and reducing toxic buildup. Add 2 Tbsp. of lemon to every 8-oz. glass of water to aid in digestion as well.

Fruit Juices

    Drink fruit and vegetable juices during the fasting period. Juicing celery, carrots, broccoli and cabbage will help your body to maintain nutritional levels while cleansing. You might also juice apples, oranges, grapefruit, lemon, mangoes and other fruits to increase vitamin consumption. According to Detoxyourbodytoday.com, cranberry juice is also useful for cleansing the kidneys and should be consumed as part of a kidney detox diet. Fruit and vegetable juices can also be obtained in most health food stores.

Watermelon

    According to healing daily.com, eating watermelon will help you to clean your kidneys due to the high liquid content the fruit contains. Eat a large melon every day for 3 or more days to aid in kidney elimination. Eliminate as needed throughout the day.

Herbs

    Herbal remedies such as licorice, dandelion root and tumeric may aid the kidneys by helping with detoxification. Articlebase.com specifies that parsley root, lemon balm and ginger root will also work to help the kidneys maintain an optimal balance. Health food stores are likely to carry these herbs in supplement form.

Senin, 05 Mei 2014

How to Lose Weight With the Fruit Flush Diet

How to Lose Weight With the Fruit Flush Diet

This three-day diet claims a weight loss of up to nine or 10 pounds, working by detoxifying the body. Jay Robb, a clinical nutritionist, CEO of Jay Robb Enterprises Inc. and founder of the Fruit Flush Diet says, "eating specific natural foods can literally wash away excess pounds and toxic debris in just three days." Protein shakes, fresh fruit and an evening meal of lean protein and salad provide the basis for flushing out toxins that result from poor diets.

Instructions

    1

    Drink protein shakes at two-hour intervals until you have consumed five shakes in total on day one. Two hours later, combine three to six cups of raw vegetable salad, three to six ounces of lean chicken and 1 tbsp. of olive oil for your dinner. On days two and three, eat a portion of fruit such as 2 cups cantaloupe or strawberries, 1 medium banana, 2 medium apples or 1 mango every two hours, until you have consumed five portions. Two hours after your last portion of fruit, eat a salad of three to six cups of raw vegetable salad, an avocado or 1 tbsp. of olive oil and a protein shake.

    2

    Avoid dairy, coffee, tea, caffeine, alcohol, sodas, both diet and regular, most fats, starches, cooked vegetables and juices. All sweets are prohibited. The protein shake should not include any of the following: sugar, sucrose, sucralose, artificial flavors and/or colors, acesulfame potassium, acesulfame K, aspartme, casein, calcium casseinate, sodium caseinate or fructose.

    3

    Engage in light walking only for 20 minutes. According to Jay Robb's website, those that engage in exercise will lose less weight than those that don't. When you have completed the three days, you can help keep the weight off by engaging in daily aerobic exercise.

Jumat, 02 Mei 2014

High Protein Foods to Gain Muscles

To gain muscle you will have to supply your body with the sustenance necessary to build these structures. Proper muscle building means that you will have to first tear the muscle through exercise and then feed the muscles proteins through diet. A muscle is made up of mostly amino acids that are replaced by amino acids from protein rich food. High protein foods along with a muscle-building diet can help supply your body with ingredients needed to properly build muscle and supply it with adequate nourishment.

Vegetarian Options

    Addressing vegetarian options for high protein foods is necessary in a world that is constantly expanding its vegetarian ranks. Soy beans are one of the best sources of vegetarian protein. Other beans and peas are also high in protein.

    Nuts such as cashews, peanuts or sunflower kernels can also provide significant amounts of protein for a vegetarian diet. Place these on top of salads, in noodle based recipes or in stir-fried vegetables to boost the protein value of a meal. Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and collard greens pack a high protein percentage average of 35 percent or more of calories coming from protein on average according to the Build Muscle and Burn Fat website.

Other High Protein Foods

    Eggs are another source of protein that can help build muscle. Eggs have been used by many designer protein makers for their products. Eggs pack an average of 6 grams of protein per egg. Be mindful however, eggs do provide a significant amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) and eating too many egg yolks can cause a cholesterol spike in the body.

    Other forms of protein include lean meats such as chicken, fish and turkey. Fish also provides fatty acids like omega 3 that are beneficial to digestion and other functions. Pork and beef also provide significant amounts of protein but have some unhealthy side effects that don't make them the optimal choice. Dairy products like milk and cheese can help to boost protein in a meal to repair muscle and reinforce growth. All in all, each of the aforementioned foods help to provide high protein to the body that will help to build, maintain and repair muscle according to the website High Protein Foods.

Designer Protein

    Many designer proteins are made for the specific needs of muscle growth. These come in forms of whey protein and other designer styles and flavors. They often provide perfect amounts of protein to supplement muscle healing and growth if taken directly after exercise. These proteins can be obtained at health and fitness stores. Talk to a doctor before starting new diet, fitness, exercise or nutrition programs.

Kamis, 01 Mei 2014

Detox Juicing Diet

A detox juicing diet is a diet that consists solely of fruit and vegetables in liquid form, as well as water. It is typically recommended by certified dietitians to help extremely obese patients lose weight, or for people looking to flush toxins from their system. A juicing diet is considered one of the most extreme forms of detoxification, as it one of the few that does not involve solid food. That is why anyone who wishes to follow the plan should consult a doctor first.

  1. Basics

    • The purpose of most detox diets is to rid the body, particularly the liver, from the buildup of toxins--which can enter your system through the foods you eat or even the air you breathe. The typical juicing diet lasts anywhere from one to three days. Anything longer than that requires strict medical supervision, as the plan does not provide all the vitamins and nutrients recommended.

    Juicing

    • Anyone following a detox juicing diet will need the assistance of a juicing machine, or "juicer." Most quality machines can be purchased for about $200 and come with a juicing diet menu (although not a detox menu). The machine makes juicing easy, as all you need to do is put the fruit or vegetable through the top and allow the juicer to turn it into liquid form.

    Detox Plan

    • A detox juicing diet should consist of 40 oz. to 65 oz. of juice per day. Fruits and vegetables can be mixed in any fashion and include apples, cranberries, tomatoes, celery, spinach, beets and carrots. Citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines and lemons are typically avoided because of their sometimes negative affects on the stomach. Also, most people on a detox juicing diet use only organic produce. Canned and frozen fruits and vegetables are not allowed because of their high sodium and sugar content.

    Side Effects

    • While most side effects of a detox juicing diet are temporary, they should be taken seriously, and if they become severe, the diet should be discontinued immediately. Common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, acne, increased body odor and a lack of energy. Also, one typical result that many people consider a positive is weight loss. However, losing too much weight in too short of a time is dangerous and can cause damage to key organs such as the kidneys.

    Summary

    • A detox juicing diet has been proven to help rid the body of toxins and be beneficial to overall health. No one should go on such a diet more than once each year. It is also recommended that anyone on a detox diet should drink six 8 oz. glasses of water per day along with the juice. Once the detox is complete, a return to solid foods should be gradual, with an emphasis on healthy choices.

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Basics

    The purpose of most detox diets is to rid the body, particularly the liver, from the buildup of toxins--which can enter your system through the foods you eat or even the air you breathe. The typical juicing diet lasts anywhere from one to three days. Anything longer than that requires strict medical supervision, as the plan does not provide all the vitamins and nutrients recommended.

Juicing

    Anyone following a detox juicing diet will need the assistance of a juicing machine, or "juicer." Most quality machines can be purchased for about $200 and come with a juicing diet menu (although not a detox menu). The machine makes juicing easy, as all you need to do is put the fruit or vegetable through the top and allow the juicer to turn it into liquid form.

Detox Plan

    A detox juicing diet should consist of 40 oz. to 65 oz. of juice per day. Fruits and vegetables can be mixed in any fashion and include apples, cranberries, tomatoes, celery, spinach, beets and carrots. Citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines and lemons are typically avoided because of their sometimes negative affects on the stomach. Also, most people on a detox juicing diet use only organic produce. Canned and frozen fruits and vegetables are not allowed because of their high sodium and sugar content.

Side Effects

    While most side effects of a detox juicing diet are temporary, they should be taken seriously, and if they become severe, the diet should be discontinued immediately. Common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, acne, increased body odor and a lack of energy. Also, one typical result that many people consider a positive is weight loss. However, losing too much weight in too short of a time is dangerous and can cause damage to key organs such as the kidneys.

Summary

    A detox juicing diet has been proven to help rid the body of toxins and be beneficial to overall health. No one should go on such a diet more than once each year. It is also recommended that anyone on a detox diet should drink six 8 oz. glasses of water per day along with the juice. Once the detox is complete, a return to solid foods should be gradual, with an emphasis on healthy choices.

Foods That Contain Phytosterols

Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, occur naturally in most nuts, legumes and vegetables oils. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, recent studies have suggested that phytosterols can help lower cholesterol, improve heart health, stimulate the immune system and prevent cancer.

Description

    Phytosterols, or plant fats, are cholesterol-like compounds that occur naturally in some plants. The human body needs phytosterols to manufacture hormones and for the synthesis of vitamins.

Oils

    Vegetable oils and other plant-based oils have the highest sterol content. Try using corn oil, flaxseed oil, cottonseed oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, olive oil, coconut oil and palm oil in cooking to increase your consumption of phytosterols.

Nuts and Legumes

    As a group, nuts and legumes have the second highest sterol content. Cashews, almonds, pecans, macadamia nuts, pistachios, walnuts, peas, kidney beans and broad beans are all excellent sources of phytosterols.

Fruits and Vegetables

    Fruits and vegetables have the lowest sterol content of all plant foods, but are still good sources for phytosterols. Try adding beet roots, brussels sprouts, cauliflowers, onions, carrots, cabbages, yams, oranges, bananas, apples, cherries, peaches and pears to your diet.

Other sources

    Some grains, such as amaranth, pasta, wheat germ, wheat bran and rye bread are also natural sources of phytosterols. Additionally, some foods, such as dark chocolate, margarine, mayonnaise, vegetable oils, salad dressings, soy milks, processed meats, snack bars, orange juices and low-fat dairy products, have been fortified with plant sterols.

What Are the Dangers of High Protein Diets?

High protein diets have been lauded as a way to quicxkly lose a lot of weight quickly. But there are also dangers in a diet devoid of carbohydrates found in fruits, vegetables and grains. These nutritional plans also call for a diet revolving around red meat and high-fat dairy products -- not the healthiest of options to enjoy at the dinner table in large quantities. It seems that the adage "everything in moderation" applies to diets high in protein but not much else.

Short-term impact

    Shortly after starting a high protein diet, you may experience fatigue associated with a decrease in carbohydrate intake. You may also experience headaches resulting from a limited diet that doesn't provide the body with the mix of nutrients it needs to function optimally. A diet rich in protein can also have cause dehydration, leading to exhaustion and headaches.

Weight Loss

    Though you may initially lose a lot of weight on a high protein diet, most of it is actually water weight. In addition, it's tough to maintain a healthier weight when you end a restrictive diet, especially since the foods you are now accustomed to eating are higher in cholesterol and fat. In fact, your cholesterol levels may actually be higher after the diet than they were before you started.

Saturated Fat

    Though it is generally recommended that 10% of your total daily nutritional intake come from saturated fat, a high protein diet can have as much as 25% saturated fat. This can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, which can lead to cardiovascular disease.

Kidney Damage

    High protein diets have been linked to kidney dysfunction. A diet in which 35% of calories come from protein sources (the ADA recommends less than 20%) puts a strain on the kidneys due to extra waste matter being released into the urine. The buildup of acidic substances, a process called ketosis, can culminate in a diabetic emergency -- particularly if you have an existing kidney disorder that you may not even know about.

Bone Loss

    Researchers have found a link between large quantities of animal protein and osteoporosis. It's believed that diets rich in protein and low in carbohydrates deplete urinary calcium, which can lead to bone fractures. A study at the University of Texas found that during the maintenance phase of the diet, bone loss was more than 55% above the average rate of calcium loss.