Weight Loss With Acupuncture | Can Acupuncture Help You Lose Weight?

In recent years, more and more people are trying out acupuncture to lose weight. Just what is acupuncture? How can acupuncture treatment help you lose weight?

Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been around for about 5,000 years. It is the practice of inserting very thin needles to stimulate pathways or meridians in the body to treat many illnesses and diseases especially to relieve pain from chronic disorders.

Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners or TCM physicians claim that acupuncture can help you to lose body fat by making you feel full and so will eat less. This curbs excess caloric consumption in the patient treated with acupuncture and is a great help in the patient’s weight loss program.

Acupuncture treatment can also be used to raise your metabolic rate and help you to burn more calories to speed up weight loss. Some Chinese medicine practitioners say that acupuncture stimulates the production of a hormone called endorphins and this hormone helps to lower body fat, insulin and lipid levels in the bloodstream thus less insulin is converted into body fat.

Acupuncture is not a miracle cure for obesity. TCM physicians often stress that to achieve good weight loss results from your program and maintaining your weight, acupuncture treatment alone is not enough. To lose weight effectively and keep the fats off permanently, acupuncture treatment must be combined with healthy eating habits and regular exercises.

Before you begin your acupuncture treatment, your Chinese physician will conduct a medical examination on you by checking your pulse and examination of your tongue to ensure that you are suitable for acupuncture weight loss treatment. This is because TCM is a holistic branch of health care and do not just specifically target the ailment or medical complaint. So an investigation into other reasons why a patient is obese is necessary to solve the problem holistically.

If you want to lose weight naturally and without drugs, why not try TCM acupuncture for your weight loss program?

About the Author:
Chris Chew is a fitness personal trainer. His coaches actors, international pageant winners and fashion models. More of his articles at Lose weight and transform your body now and Singapore personal trainers
Article Source: http://www.freearticlesdirectory.com

How to Lose Weight Without Feeling Hungry, Tired or Deprive

1. Understand that this is going to take time. You gained weight over a period of time; you must lose it over a period of time. There is no quick solution to losing weight and keeping it off.
2. Take a week to two weeks to determine your current eating patterns. Figure out how many calories you are eating per day to maintain your current weight. Figure out the ratio between carbohydrates, fat, and protein. For instance, what percentage of your daily intake is carbohydrate? What percent is fat? What percent is protein?
3. Once you have determined your current eating patterns or your “set point” to maintain your current level of weight, you can begin to manipulate your intake of calories, carbohydrates, protein, and fat in order to lose weight without feeling deprived.
4. First, try to limit your calories by only 5%. So, if you need to consume 2500 calories to maintain your current weight, try cutting out only 125 calories per day. You won’t lose weight overnight, but you will lose weight over time and you won’t feel hungry, tired or deprived. This needs to be a lifelong commitment, it has to be something you can do every day for the rest of your life. If you try to starve yourself or cut out too much at once, you will eventually fail to keep the weight off. If you do it gradually, you will have a good chance to stick with it and succeed.
5. When you get close to your goal weight you may have to do more than just cut out calories. You may need to increase exercise. You may need to increase your percentage of protein and decrease your percentage of carbohydrates.

The HealthFitCounter can help you establish your set point and help you monitor your daily intake of calories, carbs, protein and fat.

About the Author:
Renee Kennedy
Added: Tue Oct 25 2005
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Eating for Fast Weight Loss: 5 Proven Ways to Look and Feel Great Through Diet

Smart eating is the key to healthy fast weight loss and a better-looking, more energetic body. Here are 5 proven guidelines concerning what and how to eat for fast fat loss results.

Are you interested in fast weight loss, more energy, and a better-looking body? No matter what anyone tries to tell you about losing weight quickly, remember this: what and how you eat is 80% of the solution. Forget the "fat-burning" pills, fitness gadgets, and extreme workouts -- fast, healthy weight loss can only be achieved through "smart" eating.

With that in mind, here are 5 proven diet guidelines for dropping body fat, boosting your energy, and looking great fast:

1. Learn to limit or avoid processed carbs.

Almost anything not found in nature is going to hinder your weight loss progress. To change your body quickly, you really need to focus on eating only natural "good" carbs, such as: fresh or frozen vegetables, fresh fruits, sweet potatoes, lentils, dried beans, oatmeal, whole-grain rice, etc. (Note: Avoid breads and cereals as much as possible -- even whole-grain versions -- when trying to lose weight quickly.)

2. Never let yourself get hungry.

For most people, that means eating a large, healthy breakfast and then eating (or "snacking") every 3 hours throughout the day. Self-discipline and willpower will only take you so far. If you never get hungry you won't need to fight the urge to eat high-fat, high-sugar food as often.

3. Keep healthy food with you at all times.

Consider keeping a small cooler in your car filled with healthy meals and snacks. Good "fat loss friendly" snacks include things like: fresh veggies with low-calorie dip, fresh fruits, raw or roasted nuts and seeds, beef jerky, hard-boiled eggs, low-fat cheeses, olives, lean cold cut meats, etc.

4. Protein is vital.

If fast weight loss is your goal, make protein the "center" of your diet. Try to include some protein in most, if not all, of your meals and snacks. A high-protein diet speeds fat loss by boosting your metabolism and controlling blood sugar and insulin levels. Also, eating protein every few hours will help keep your energy levels stable and minimize hunger cravings. Good protein choices include: poultry, lean beef, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, cottage cheese, and whey protein powder.

5. "Healthy" salads can really help.

To lose weight as quickly as possible, try to eat at least 1 or 2 "healthy" salads per day. A "healthy" salad is one that contains only fresh lettuce, vegetables, fruits, and good fats. Adding meats and cheeses is ok as long as they're of the low-fat variety. Stay away from high-fat and/or high-sugar salad dressings, as well as fatty cheeses and fried or high-fat meats. The best salad dressing for fast weight loss is probably virgin olive oil mixed with apple cider vinegar. Both of these substances are ultra-healthy and may help to boost body fat loss.

About the Author:
Jamie Clark is a health and fitness writer for http://FreshHealthyUseful.com. To learn more about fast, healthy weight loss be sure to sign up for his free report at http://www.LookGreatFast.com today!
Submitted on 2006-11-10
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/

Weight Loss Surgery: The Sure Way To Reduce Weight

Excessive weight gain is one such problem that may pave the way for string of diseases. Its extreme form is known as obesity that requires immediate care and attention. In order to curb obesity or reduce weight you can adopt various ways. And one such way of shedding weight is surgery.

This surgical operation aims at reducing weight by eliminating extra pound of flesh from your stomach along with cutting short the length of your intestine. However this weight loss surgery should be the last option of reining in increasing weight. If you are incapable of reducing weight through dietary and exercise measures then only you should opt for surgery. The surgery is known as Bariatic or Laparoscopic surgery.

Before undergoing this surgery you must be sure that you need it, otherwise you carry great risk of deadly consequences as byproducts of this operation. An unneeded surgery may disrupt the normal digestive process forever. Making a decision on this life transmogrifying surgery requires you to be fully aware of all pros and cones that you would bear once you undergo the operation. A seasoned surgeon having expertise in Bariatic surgeries happens to be a prerequisite with this surgery.

Post operation care is of extreme importance for this weight loss remedy. If you are not sure that you would be able to follow post operation care and restrictions, you must give up the idea of undergoing laparoscopic surgery. You are greatly needed to regulate your food intake for a long time after the surgery.

Because of the risk associated with operation all people undergoing Bariatric surgery are made to sign a consent letter that is a proof of a person's willingness to undergo the surgery. This surgery usually takes half an hour and patient is discharged from the hospital in one or two days. Earlier this surgery needed a good some of money, however it has no longer remain a costly affair. In fact it has become quite affordable for all.

Apart from gastrointestinal disorders the surgery may facilitate stones in gallbladder. Osteoporosis could be also one of negative results of this surgery.

There could be various types of these surgical operations aimed at reducing weight. Seeing level of your obesity and considering your health history, a surgeon decides on the type of surgery that is to be performed on you.

To sum up, surgery would drastically reduce your weight provided you are determined to take good care of yourself post surgery.

About the Author:
Javier Fuller
To read more articles on weight loss, weight loss surgery and weight loss programs visit http://www.thelosspill.com/
Added: 23 Nov 2006
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Facts to Know Before Going for Weight Loss Surgery

Have you ever wondered what exactly is up with weight loss surgery? This informative article can give you an insight into everything you've ever wanted to know about weight loss surgery.

For some people, it can be a difficult decision for choosing whether or not to undergo weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is life changing and requires a solid commitment from the patient to follow a diet and exercise plan. You should make sure you clearly understand the pros and cons connected with weight loss surgery procedure before making any decision.

What to Expect?

First and foremost, it is essential that you have a clear idea of what your expectations are from the weight loss surgery and whether the results of that actual surgical procedure will be able to meet those expectations.

Also, weight loss surgery patients are advised not to expect the weight loss surgery to be their answer to all their problems and that they will need to maintain their health and figures into the future by following proper healthy eating and exercise plans.

These weight loss surgery types are gaining more acceptances today as newer technology makes the weight loss surgeries more efficient and safer. There are probably many questions you have. Here are some common questions regarding weight loss surgery if you are considering weight loss surgery.

How Much Weight Can I Lose?

The amount of weight you will lose following weight loss surgery will depend on several factors. First, the weight loss surgery type you have can affect the outcome. The Lap-Band procedure, while safer, has slower weight loss than other forms.

Also, your exercise routine and the foods you eat will also affect your weight loss outcome. It is essential to follow the diet plan given to you and to exercise everyday for the maximum weight loss. Most patients can expect to lose about 36 percent of their excess body weight within the first year.

Are There any Qualifications For Having Weight Loss Surgery?

Even this depends on several factors. Usually, a candidate for weight loss surgery must weight 100 pounds or more over their ideal body weight. Another factor is the body mass index.

Women who are 80 pounds overweight or more and have a body mass index of 40+ and men who are overweight by 100 pounds or more and have a Body Mass Index of about 40+ are considered severely obese and may be candidates for weight loss surgery.

Those who have a BMI between 35 and 40 and suffer from obesity connected problems such as sleep apnea, obesity related heart disease, or diabetes may be considered for the weight loss surgery.

How Safe Is Weight Loss Surgery?

For the most part, weight loss surgery is safe. As with any surgical procedure there are risks involved and these should be carefully considered before having the procedure.

Also, there are some weight loss surgery types that are safer than others. Surgeries that are performed laparoscopically are generally safer and easier to recover from than open procedures.

Additionally, there may be some medical conditions that will prevent a good outcome for some patients. It is significant to discuss these issues with your health care provider before having surgery.

Can I Participate In Activities Following Surgery?

Yes, after you are completely healed, it generally takes four to six weeks. Healing time can depend on the type of surgery that is performed. You can resume your normal activities after that time. In reality, exercise is encouraged and will aid in more rapid weight loss.

What Can I Eat After Weight Loss Surgery?

You will be limited to liquids and pureed foods for the first five weeks after surgery. Gradually, you can begin to add in other foods such as lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables and low fat dairy products.

Most patients will only be able to eat a very small portion so it is significant to stop eating when you feel full and to eat several small meals during the day. Also, you should avoid sweet foods and foods that are fibrous, greasy, doughy or sticky. This can lead to obstacle of the stomach and intestines.

Although Weight Loss Surgery can be a life saving procedure for some people, for others it is seen primarily as a cosmetic procedure. That said, however, it does have its advantages. Primarily, the main advantage of weight loss surgery is weight reduction with many of its patients being pleased with the amount of weight they have lost.

That said, whenever anyone is considering undertaking weight loss surgery it is significant that they discuss this fully with their doctor and seek out the best medical advice to date.

Take time to consider the points about weight loss surgery presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

About the Author:
Nishanth Reddy is an author and publisher of many health related websites. For more information on different surgery methods and steps to be followed after the surgery, visit his website: www.weight-loss-surgery-guide.info
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A Diet Buddy Can Help You Lose Weight

Are you looking for a diet plan that helps you lose weight, then you should look for the help of a diet buddy. A diet buddy is a friend or co worker who your partner with to help each other lose weight. Many fitness experts know that if you have to account for your actions to a friend and yourself you are much more likely to stick to it and successfully lose weight.

Picking a diet buddy isn’t hard but it isn’t easy either. You need to find someone who you can trust and who is honest with you. You need someone who will tell you the two big Macs you had for dinner last night wasn’t a good choice, but won’t tear you apart either. You should find a person who has similar weight loss goals. If you want to lose 15 pounds and your buddy wants to lose 65 you aren’t that compatible. You should avoid choosing someone you live with if possible. The constant interaction and monitoring will make you feel like your every move is being watched. Instead try to choose a co worker or close friend to help you out.

You should also choose a diet buddy who you will see regularly. A really great strategy is to meet at the gym every morning and go for breakfast afterward. This way you can compare and talk about what’s going on and how you are progressing. If breakfast doesn’t work lunch is another good alternative. If you have a regular lunch date it will be much easier for you to say no when the office goes for Buffalo wings and nachos every Friday.

You and your diet buddy should set goals and rewards for each other. When you hit a weight goal go out and celebrate. Celebrate by shopping for a new outfit that shows off your weight loss, not by going out for a cheeseburger and milkshake. Remember you and your buddy are working together to help each other reach your goals you aren’t competing with each other. If you can shop for a new dress size or bathing suit don’t be smug about it to your diet buddy. Be supportive and help them, realize everyone’s body is different and some people take longer to lose weight.

About the author:
This article was written by Allison Preston who is the webmaster of http://www.Fitness-Web.com,a website with diet, health, fitness, and exercise articles and reviews of fitness infomercials. NOTE: You’re welcome to "reprint" this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the "about the author" info)

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The Top Fat-Burning Foods

In your quest to lose weight, there are a variety of foods that are not only healthy and nutritious, but help your body lose weight naturally and increase your body's rate of fat loss. Incorporating some or all of these foods into your daily diet can speed up weight loss, build a healthier body, and put you on the road to a healthier lifestyle.

+Apples and berries contain pectin. Pectin restricts the amount of fat the cells can absorb and forces the cells to discharge fatty deposits.

+Citrus fruits contain high concentrations of Vitamin C. Vitamin C burns fat by liquefying it. This makes it easier for the body to flush fat from the system.

+Calcium in dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt plays an important role in weight loss by accelerating the fat breakdown in fat cells.

+Broccoli and Cabbage both contain very high quantities of calcium and Vitamin C and are full of fiber!

+Eggs are high in protein and essential in burning fat. If you are concerned about cholesterol, you can eat the white part as that is the most nutritious part of the egg.

+Garlic or garlic oil helps reduce fatty deposits in your body's cells.

+Green Tea boosts metabolism and may aid in weight loss. It also contains anti-cancer properties and help prevent heart disease.

+Hot Peppers can speed up your metabolism. This causes you to burn more calories.

+Lean Turkey fires up the body's fat-burning abilities by boosting metabolism and building lean muscle tissue that, in turn, burns more calories.

+Oatmeal and Whole Grains are great sources of fat-absorbing fiber that keeps the body full by providing it with energy. They also rev up the metabolism, necessary for burning fat and calories.

+Olive Oil keeps your cholesterol down and burns fat.

+Soup is a terrific appetite suppressant. Burn fat faster by having a bowl of soup as an appetizer or a snack.

+Soybeans contain lecithin, a chemical that protects your cells from accumulating fat. It also breaks down fatty deposits in your body.

Don't forget the first rule of a good and healthy diet is to drink water, lots of water! Water flushes out the system and eliminates harmful toxins. It enables the body to run more efficiently, speeds up metabolism, and makes it easier to lose weight and burn fat. Your body is made up of 70% water and needs a lot of water each day to perform its necessary functions.

About the Author:
Chris Chenoweth, author of the Do-It-Yourself Home Health & Money Guide, writes articles pertaining to nutrition, health issues, and household budgeting. If you would like to find out more information on the Do-It-Yourself Home, Health & Money Guide, please visit: http://mysiteinc.com/djtrevayne/guide.html
One of the best weight loss programs available, BURN THE FAT (http://www.ezniche.com/data/article.php?l=18), shows you how to convert your body into a fat burning machine.
Added: 14 Aug 2006
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Take Low Cholesterol Diets to Reduce Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty lipid, steroid and an alcohol found in the body tissues and blood plasma of vertebrates. It is the cardinal part of the outer membranes of human body cells and it circulates in the blood of humans. Cholesterol in the human body comes from two major sources – diet, and the liver, where it is produced internally.

High cholesterol in the blood is considered to be unhealthy. The cholesterol levels in the bloodstream can influence the pathogenesis of certain conditions, such as the development of atherosclerotic plaque and coronary artery disease. It gets collected on the walls of arteries and interferes with the flow of blood. This buildup of cholesterol in the blood vessels may constrict the passages considerably and inhibit the flow of blood to and from the heart.

Recent researches have revealed that the abundance of protein complexes, called lipoproteins are responsible for the cholesterol build-up in the blood vessels. Elevated levels of bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein or LDL), are responsible for heart disease.

Cholesterol in your diet:

A high cholesterol diet is considered an unwholesome diet. Diets which are rich in animal fats, meat, poultry, fish, oils, egg yolks and dairy products, are a rich source of cholesterol. Organ meats, such as liver, are extremely rich in cholesterol. A diet high in cholesterol is fatal for the heart.

Healthy diets are considered effective to lower cholesterol. A low cholesterol diet contains extremely low or no cholesterol at all. Diets of plant origin are the best low cholesterol diets.

Fat is the major source of energy for the body, but excessive fat in the diet is dangerous. The excess fat raises blood cholesterol levels. It’s bad for the circulatory system and causes heart attack or stroke. The amount of fat and cholesterol in a diet should just be according to the daily calories required by the body. Thus a perfectly balanced diet is considered a healthy diet.

A perfect low cholesterol diet has the following features:

• It’s low in fat (especially saturated fat).
• It contains low cholesterol.
• It contains low sodium contents.
• It’s rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates.
• It’s usually a low calorie diet.

Besides taking low cholesterol diets, sugar and alcohol consumption should also be reduced, as they contribute to high cholesterol levels.

Avoid eating at fast food restaurants, because fast foods are usually high in fats and sodium.

Regular exercise can also reduce cholesterol levels.

Recent studies have revealed that certain deep-sea fish -- mackerel, salmon, herring, albacore tuna, and lake trout -- contain an oil called Omega-3 fatty acid that may help to lower blood cholesterol.

About the Author:
Paul MacIver
Visit the Health Info website to read more about cholesterol and low cholesterol diets. You are welcome to reprint this article as long as nothing is changed, and this resource box is included with all links made active.
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Acomplia a Ray of Hope for Millions Suffering from Obesity

Obesity generally makes life hell as it is associated with numerous sufferings. Everything in the world is designed for the convenience of a normal non-obese person. An obese feels difficulty in climbing stairs because knee joints are not designed to carry heavy load of the body. Pot-belly doesn’t leave much space between steering and stomach while driving a car because car seats are not designed for an obese. There are numerous such problems which an obese often faces in accomplishment of day to day work. Moreover, obesity is associated with many fatal diseases like heart attack, prostate cancer and stroke. Regular exercise cannot help in curing obesity when calories burnt in gym are later on substituted by excessive intake of high calorie food.

Acomplia is a ray of hope for millions of obese across the globe. This magical pill Acomplia doesn’t work like normal appetite suppressants, those generally have many side effects and compel regular use for rest of life.

This medicine inhibits working of CB-1 receptor which is present on the surface of every cell of human body. CB-1 receptors are particularly responsible for the transmission of hunger signal from cell to brain. Acomplia cures abnormality in this signaling and diet becomes balanced. After using Acomplia you will not feel uncontrolled urge for food even if your favourite dish is placed in front of you. Acomplia also has proven efficacy to suppress tobacco addiction because the same CB-1 receptor is responsible for generating affinity towards tobacco and Acomplia blocks it.

It is an oral-prescription drug which must not be taken without doctor’s prescription. Doses of 20mg of Acomplia can produce significant effects and reduce upto 5% of original weight of the body. Exercising cures obesity well when it is accompanied by proper dosages of highly effective Acomplia. Sanofi-Aventis (the manufacturing company) is planning to introduce Acomplia by the name of Zimulti in the US. No matter whatever is the brand name, the basic constituent of Acomplia is Rimonabant, which is primarily an appetite suppressant.

Though this medicine is not a FDA approved drug, but Sanofi-Aventis is in negotiation with governmental agency and expecting approval very soon in the US. Acomplia (Rimonabant) also has some mild side-effects like gastro-intestine disorder, nausea, headache, cramp etc. If any symptom persist for long doctor must be contacted immediately. Acomplia is prohibited for pregnant women and women who are planning to conceive.

The side effects of Acomplia are too benign and short-termed in comparison to dual benefits it produces in the form of anti-obesity and tobacco addiction curing medicine.

About the Author:
Clarence Carter received training as a healthcare scientist. She has been working in the same field and writes informative articles, weight loss being her pet subject. To find Acomplia (Rimonabant), Xenical (Orlistat), Acomplia, Weight loss drug, obesity, Phentermine, Reductil visit www.weight-loss-drug.co.uk
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Is Swimming Effective For Weight Loss And Tone Muscles?

Well, most people think swimming is effective to tone muscles and lose fat and that is why the swimming pools everywhere are always packed in the evenings and weekends. Well, I must first declare that I am not anti-swimming. In fact, I swim regularly. However when I researched materials for my articles, I came across some negative aspects of swimming from the scientific community.

Swimming is considered as one of the best exercises to lose weight and also to build and tone muscles. Not surprisingly so because when you swim, all your major muscles are called into action. It also has an aerobic effect, so heart and lungs get a good workout too.

However, a research published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine shows that in the absence of a controlled diet, swimming has little or no effect on weight loss.

Professor Grant Gwinup conducted an experiment with the following results.

* Test subjects following a walking program lost 17 pounds of weight during the three-month study.

* Those following the cycling program lost 19 pounds of weight.

* However, subjects following the swimming program actually gained 5 pounds.

Astonishing isn't it? I was surprised too when I first read the report.

Professor Gwinup then assumes that swimming in cold water stimulates the appetite to increase caloric consumption.

Professor Louise Burke, Head of Nutrition at the Australian Institute of Sport, pointed out that competitive swimmers typically have body fat levels that are higher than those of runners or cyclists who expend a similar amount of energy when they train.

Many people feel hungry after swimming and may simply replace all the calories they've burned with a large meal after their swim.

"Some research suggests that this is due to the cool temperatures in which swimmers train. By contrast, runners and cyclists usually experience an increase in body temperature during training, which may serve to suppress appetite - at least in the short term" said Professor Burke.

Professor Burke further said that competitive swimmers are less active outside their training sessions. They are so tired from the hours spent training that they sleep, sit or otherwise avoid any real physical activity outside their sessions.

Now on building muscles, because most of the work your body does when swimming involves positive muscle actions, like pushing up a bench press, there is no negative action like lowering the weights during a bench press at all. We know that the negative move during weight training is important to build muscles and burn fat.

Doing any exercise is better than not exercising at all. So go ahead and swim so that you can have various forms of exercises to beat the boredom of doing the same things all the time. Just make sure that you don't eat more or become more sedentary after your swim.

About the Author:
Chris Chew is a personal trainer of actors, pageant winners, models and other celebrities. Read more of his articles at Burn fat quickly grow muscles fast! and Singapore fitness instructors
Article Source: http://www.articles2k.com

What You Need to Know About Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements can help you maintain your health but do have some risks. Here's some things you should know before you start taking any dietary supplements.

People need dietary supplements for a variety of reasons. Bodybuilders, for example, would need supplements to aid muscle buildup and strengthening of muscles such as concentrated protein, glutamine, creatine and weight gain powders. Athletes take in supplements to optimize or enhance their performance.

People with illnesses often require dietary supplements such as concentrated iron for anemia. And those on a diet also take supplements to ensure they get the required amount of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, herbs, enzymes and other nutrients. Most however take supplements for optimum overall health. A lot of people also take them to relieve stress and to boost their energy.

What are dietary supplements and how are they different from medicines and over-the-counter drugs?

The Congress in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act, which was enacted into law in 1994, defines dietary supplements or nutritional supplements as supplements to the diet. These supplements contain one or more ingredients or their constituents. These are taken orally in the form of liquid, capsule, pill or tablet and are labeled as dietary supplement in the packaging.

Dietary supplements come in different forms, thus the confusion with over-the-counter drugs. The market is flooded with different types and forms of supplements such as capsules, tablets, drinks, energy bars and powders. Most can be purchased even without a prescription. They are available in drug stores, supermarkets, grocery stores, natural food stores, merchandise retailers and in health stores. One can even buy supplements on line. In order to distinguish these supplements from over-the-counter drugs, always read the Supplement Facts label.

Unfortunately, most of these dietary supplements are not regulated. Unlike with drugs, the US Food and Drugs Administration does not check the safety and effectiveness of supplements before they are sold to the public. In fact, the FDA only has authority over supplements once they have already entered the market. Usually, actions are taken by the FDA once a complaint against a certain brand has been received.

Many dietary supplements are guilty of false claims. Testimonials and so-called proofs of the efficiency and effectiveness of supplements abound in print, broadcast and on line media.

Worse, some are even unsafe. And so, extra precaution must be taken when choosing which dietary supplement to take. Always check with the manufacturer for more information. With the tons of promotional materials that abound, always be wary of the information being presented.

Keen in mind that dietary supplements are not intended to cure or prevent illnesses. In addition, although some supplements have beneficial effects, a significant number of them have potential health risks. Some supplements contain active ingredients that can have negative effects on the body, specially when taken in large doses and with other supplements and medicines. Supplementslike calcium, for example, interact with heart medicines like Digoxin, vitamin K counteracts with blood thinners etc.. In addition, too much intake of certain vitamins and minerals such as oil-soluble vitamin E and A, can be toxic to the body.

Pregnant women, nursing moms, those undergoing surgery and people with chronic illnesses should take extra care in deciding whether to take dietary supplements or not.

And so, when choosing supplements, it is always best to consult with a health care provider to avoid serious side effects. Remember, safety first!

The very first step is to undergo a nutritional assessment or evaluation with a health care provider. This will find out what your nutritional needs are and what dietary supplement is best suited to your medical condition.

Dietary supplements are supplements and not are not meant to replace some of the food needed in a healthy daily diet. Thus, bear in mind that no supplement can ever replace a healthy diet.

Never assume that "natural" is always safe. Some natural ingredients, specially if taken in large doses, can interact with medicines and may even result to life-threatening situations.

In addition, there are certain considerations in purchasing dietary supplements such as the quality, availability, your nutritional needs and price.

On a final note, dietary supplements are meant to supplement the body's nutritional needs. It can never replace the overall health benefits of regular exercise and a healthy diet. And in choosing supplementary diets, safety should always be the main consideration.

About the Author:
Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.a2z-vitamin-and-herbs.com where you can learn more about dietary supplements and learn how vitamins can help keep you healthy.
Submitted on 2006-11-30
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/

Child Obesity

Child Obesity is a medical disorder that is found in young children. Children who suffer from this disorder will typically have a weight that is out of proportion with their age and height. Many countries consider this condition to be an epidemic, and it is common in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Statistics show that one out of every three children living in the US is considered to be overweight. There are a number of elements that are responsible for the rise of child obesity in the US. These three elements are genetics, acquired, and marketing.

Research has shown that children who are born to parents who are obese are likely to become obese themselves. While this is often caused by the excessive consumption of unhealthy foods, and some believe the condition may be genetic as well. However, this research is currently being conducted, and there is no concrete evidence which has currently been found to support this. Some children have been found to become obese because of the way their bodies grow. Another element that many believe is responsible for causing children to become obese is referred to as being acquired.

A large number of children in both the US and UK do not get sufficient amounts of exercise. Certain forms of technology such as computes, cell phones, and video games have created an environment where many children are not burning calories by being physically active. The energy that is not used may be stored in the body in the form of fat. It should be noted that it is not the technology that is responsible for this, but it is the failure on the part of parents to make sure their children are getting reasonable amounts of exercise. In the West, many children eat unhealthy amounts of fast or junk food, which has become quite popular. These foods tend to be rich in saturated fat, and are low in nutrients.

The third element which is often blamed for child obesity is marketing. In the United States and Britain, fast food companies are known for advertising their unhealthy foods to young children, and some parents have begun blaming them for the rise in child obesity. However, the junk food and fast food companies often point out that it is not their responsibility to supervise the diet habits of those who eat their products. They often point out that this is the responsibility of the parents to make sure their children are eating right.

There are a number of complications that can be caused by child obesity. Children can develop dangerous ailments such as heart disease or diabetes, and some may also develop cancer. Many of these children who are overweight will remain the same after they have become adults. Some of these children are humiliated by their peers, and may even be insulted by their own families. Because of this, children who suffer from obesity are prone to suffering from mental disorders. There is current debate about who is responsible for this. While it is easy to blame junk food companies, parents ultimately have the responsibility of making sure their children eat right and exercise.

About the Author:
Michael Colucci is a writer for Child Obesity which is part of the Knowledge Search network.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnetwork.com/

The Low-Down On Diet Comparison

Low carbs and high protein is the way to lose weight, or so you'll hear from one diet guru, and he has the testimonials to back it up. Low fat, lots of carbs and fresh fruits and veggies, says another - and he's got the back up from satisfied users, too. A third swears that you need to count the amount of sugar; another tells you the enemy is white flour - if you want to lose real weight and keep it off, who do you listen to?

Take a look at the brief summaries below for a quick overview of the pros and cons of each of the popular types of diet plans.

Low Carb-Hi Protein Diets

Diets like the Atkins, the South Beach and the Zone Diet all recommend restricted carbohydrates and allow liberal amounts of protein, including protein derived from animal sources. Generally, they limit the overall amount of carbohydrates, or teach you to differentiate between "good" and "bad" carbohydrates. Bad carbohydrates, which are forbidden, include white flour, white bread, and white sugar.

Pros: The diets all encourage learning healthy eating as part of losing weight. Deriving most of your daily calories from high fiber sources of carbs like leafy green vegetables and grains is generally considered the best diet for nutrition by the established medical community. The popularity of the diets makes it easy to find low-carb foods.

Cons: The allowance of eating all the protein and fats you like flies in the face of conventional medical wisdom. A diet high in saturated fats could lead to heart disease, diabetes, gout and other chronic health conditions. Following the diets' cautions and advice to keep portions reasonable should mitigate that concern, though.

Weight Loss "Programs"

Jenny Craig, NutriSystem, Weight Watchers, SlimFast and a number of other weight loss programs rely heavily on pre-packaged 'diet' foods. They incorporate professional coaching, social structure and reinforcement.

Pros: The professional coaching and nutritional benefits are a big plus, as are the reinforcement and support aspect of the diets. Meals and supplements are prepackaged in the right proportions, and if you stick to the diets and exercise as directed you will lose weight.

Cons: The weekly fees and cost of meals can be expensive. In addition, if you rely completely on the packaged foods, you miss out on the re-education of your eating habits, which is important to maintaining any weight lost.

The Real Mayo Clinic Diet

This is not the diet that has circulated for the past thirty or more years and purported to have originated at the Mayo Clinic! The true Mayo Clinic's nutrition and diet center recommends a healthy eating weight loss plan based on limiting fats, proteins and carbohydrates, counting calories and deriving most of the daily nutrition from vegetables, grains and fruit.

Pros: There's no 'diet'. Instead, you're encouraged to take control of your eating. Portion control and sensible balance of nutrients are the cornerstones of a weight loss plan that takes weight off gradually, and helps you keep it off permanently.

Cons: It may be difficult to stay on the diet. Counting calories and portions can be difficult if you're eating out or on the run.

There are many diets that promise to take weight off quickly and painlessly, without exercise or changing your eating habits. The three major variations of diets above all will result in 1-2 pounds of loss per week, which most doctors believe is the optimum way to lose weight for long lasting results.

About the author:
Kirsten Hawkins is a nutrition and health expert from Nashville, TN. Visit http://www.popular-diets.com/ for more great nutrition, well-being, and vitamin tips as well as reviews and comments on popular diets.

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Hypnosis Effective Methods to Lose Weight

Very few people know that hypnosis helps in losing weight. What is Hypnosis? Hypnosis is a tool that can be used to bring out ones full potential in many ways. It is a very good way to lose weight. What an overweight person usually does to lose weight is to go on a diet to lose excess weight. But once the diet is stopped the lost weight comes back. Sometimes you gain even more than you lost. Losing weight needs a lot of will power even if you know what the right food is and how much to eat. Hypnosis helps you get the willpower that will help you lose weight effectively.

People on a diet have a strong desire to lose weight but often don't succeed because they don't have the willpower to do what it takes. Hypnosis helps here as through hypnosis an area of the mind that is often not used is targeted. It brings about awareness in that part of the mind that helps you lose weight. This part of the mind takes a center stage and helps you lose weight. It overshadows the part of the mind that gives you that urge to eat foods that are not good for you like rich desserts and fried foods.

Through hypnosis you are able to control that part of your brain that deals with metabolism. Metabolism is nothing but the process in which your body quickly processes its food (fuel) sources and how much of it is stored. By increasing metabolism you can speed up weight loss and also maintain the weight loss. Hypnosis is the means to effectively change your metabolism and help you lose weight.

Through self-hypnosis for weight loss you can teach yourself to use that part of the mind to create powerful and lasting changes in your life. You can take control of your physical body through conscious actions through hypnosis. This is done by using all the information that is already there in your mind and making this information take center stage. It is very easy to lose weight through hypnosis.

Self hypnosis and hypnotherapy are very effective in making lasting changes in many facets of your life, whether it is to lose weight, stop smoking, relieve stress and even insomnia. Weight Loss Self Hypnosis programs can help you lose weight and maintain the weight loss.

Go here now to check more about this…

www.hypnosisglobal.com/betterliving

About the Author:
Pradeep Aggarwal a world renowned hypnosis guru offers offers 15 part ecourse on Learn and Master How to Hypnotize yourself and others at
http://www.hypnosisglobal.com/ecourse
Added: 18 Nov 2006
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How Do You Eat an Elephant?

How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time. Your goal is the elephant. The bites are the small steps you take to reach the goal.

Most likely, you have a dream. Now it takes action to make it a reality – but where do you start? It can be so overwhelming, most people won’t even attempt to start.

First you need a plan. You’ll have a number of steps that you need to take in a logical order. Now start to establish a time frame. What could you accomplish this week? This month? Once you accomplish these steps, what could you realistically accomplish in the next month? The month after that?

The steps might be based on your current capability, or the time you have available, or what you can afford, or a combination of all of those factors.

Say your goal is to be a painter. You might need to enroll in a course. You might need to budget to buy the equipment and supplies you need. You might need to plan a certain amount of time every day, or every week dedicated just to working on that painting.

Say your goal is to lose weight and have more energy. You may need to learn about different foods and how they affect your body. You may need to learn how to make healthier dishes. You may need to plan your eating instead of eating on impulse.
You may need to learn how to shop differently. You may need to start an exercise program, based on your current condition.

Say your goal is to become financially stable, or even rich. You may need to first focus on immediate income to cover current needs. You may need to find avenues of residual income -money you don’t work for – like using tax laws wisely, or rental income, or interest, or investment income, or a business that provides an ongoing income. You may need to learn more about investments.
You’ll need to learn how to take each step and roll it over to the next – learning and growing.

No matter what your goal, it can be broken down into little steps. Your plan at this point should include the overall view of the steps needed to reach the goal, with a subset of things you can accomplish over the next month or so. Take some time and map out a detailed plan to reach your goal. What do you need to do to get from where you are now - to the final destination?

Remember, one bite at a time!

About the Author:
Carole Pagan is the creator of the revolutionary e-course - Whole Life Overhaul - designed to help you gain control of your life and reach your biggest goals. Sign up for a free test drive here - www.linkbrander.com/go/19629
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Obesity America's largest Health Problem

Did you know that over 50% of North American's are overweight?

Obesity is an excess of body fat. Anyone who is 20% over their normal weight, is considered obese.

There are many causes of obesity, they are...
Emotion issues, boredom, poor diet, lack of exercise and medical conditions that contribute to obesity, glandular malfunction, diabetes, and hypoglycemia.

In addition, weight gain can also be a side effect of some prescription drugs.

In fact, we are literally killing ourselves with our current life styles.

Obesity is becoming one of the leading preventable causes of chronic disease.

Most of us are familiar with research that links body increased weight higher risks of developing Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, and some forms of cancer.

To learn more about the danger of obesity visit:

Surf Wax Health News at http://news.surfwax.com

Once in the site click on 'Health', then health 'Topics, Obesity and Overweight'. This site is a wealth of information, for anyone interested in the 'Battle of the Bulge'

Are you still with me? Is this your battle?
If so, arm your self with information on how to win the battle, and draw up a battle plan.

THE BATTLE PLAN

Step 1: Read the E Book 'Nine Steps To A Healthy Vibrant Body'
The Ebook can be found FREE at www.herbs4health.net.

Step 2: Visit your doctor, and have the blood tests done, that are suggested in Step One, "Evaluate The Condition Of Your Body" of 'Nine Steps To A Healthy Vibrant Body'.

Don't forget to do the Thyroid Self Test in Chapter 2...

Step 3: Start making the necessary lifestyle changes slowly in your life. Here is a list of some changes you might consider:

* increase water consumption
* decrease your consumption of caffeine
* decrease your consumption of alcohol
* start an exercise program
* eat three proper meals a day and snacks, morning and afternoon, don't eat after supper
* examine the emotional side of eating
* learn more about nutrition
* read about different eating plans & formulate your eating plan

Do you agree?
'Diet' is a dirty four letter word. Most people can not stick to a diet, they need to develop a new eating plan. The book 'Eat Right For Your Type', is very helpful in teaching a person about the foods that your body likes and feels good on.

None of us are healthy, when we consume too much sugar and caffeine!

None of us get any food value from eating foods made with white flour, or eating prepackaged foods!

All the different eating programs have one thing in common, they all agree we need to consume a lot of protein in our diet. One of the best sources of protein is 'Hemp Hearts'. To learn more about this wonderful food visit www.greathealth.org/hemphearts.pdf .

You can purchase 'Hemp Hearts' at most health food stores.

New research has also shown that Coconut Oil can contribute to weight loss, we all need oil in our diet, to learn more about this great oil visit www.coconutoil-online.com .

The other common thread in most eating plans is that, we all need fresh vegetables.

It is recommended that we eat 8 to 10 servings a day of fresh fruit and vegetables. In our fast pace of life many people find this hard to do. Try this recipe for a vegetable smoothie...

Vegetable Smoothie
Place the following ingredients in a blender:

½ cup of tomato or V8 Juice
½ cup of water
½ cup fresh raw vegetable (carrots, kale, cabbage, broccoli )
Season to taste and blend until smooth.

You now have an instant meal, you can also add Hemp Hearts and you will have the necessary protein for that meal.

You are the captain in this plan, so you can design your eating plan to suit your battle, and your life style.

Are you obsessed with food?

Are you addicted to certain foods?

Do you eat under stress?

If you said yes to any of those questions you are not alone.

Dr. Phil McGraw has become one of the leading experts on this subject. Phil says that ending obsessive behavior with food sometimes isn't the answer to the problem. You need to change the internal dialogue that says you're a bad person, if you don't weigh a certain amount.

If you have emotional issues around food visit his site at www.drphil.com, and click on the weight section, there is a wealth of information that can assist you to lick this problem.

For some of us that are just a few pounds over weight, or those that are obese, there is hope. There is a lot that we can do, the secret is, each of us must do this ourselves. However, it does help if we have the support of a friend, or a group of friends. The most important thing to remember is that you can change you life style, and lose the excess weight. You too can have a healthy vibrant body.

© Jane Kriese
janes-store@telus.net

About the Author:
Jane Kriese
This article may be reprinted in newsletters and on web sites, with resource box included
If using this article, please send a brief message to janes-store@telus.net
Word count; 659 words with 22 word resource box
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URL: http://www herbs4health.net
Date of copyright; Nov.16,2004
This article was checked by SpamAssassin and is spam-safe.
Would you like to have a Healthy Vibrant Body? To learn more, sign up for Jane Kriese's Herbs For Health Newsletter, and receive your free alkalinity testing kit, at; www.herbsforhealthstore.biz
Added: Thu Apr 14 2005
To find other free health content see e-healtharticles.com

Diet Not Working? The Yo-Yo Diet

Does it seem like no matter how little food you eat, you never lose a pound? You start your day out with an apple, eat vegetables for lunch and have a tiny dinner. You have all week, but you’re still the same weight. Why?

It seems to be the first thought in someone’s mind when they decide they’re going on a diet: I need to eat less. The general rule is eat less and exercise more. In all actuality, this will do nothing but cause you to gain weight and become fatigued. When you eat less your body believes that it is being starved and will hoard every fat cell it can. It will do whatever it takes to keep these fat cells and no matter how many calories you burn, you won’t lose weight. Your metabolism slows greatly. Your body is in starvation mode.

People who start these diets will quickly end them when they realize they aren’t losing weight and they will return to their normal eating habits. Because the body still thinks it is in starvation mode, it will hoard all the fat cells of which there is twice the amount being eaten now, and the dieter will actually gain more weight back than they lost. This will prompt another diet and the process begins again. This is called a “yo-yo diet.”

The number way to avoid yo-yo dieting is to see a nutritionist. They will create a proper diet plan tailored to your needs and they have all the know-how to create a healthy and safe diet. Diets are not about eating less, they’re about eating better. A nutritionist will help you balance what types of food you’re eating, when you’re eating and how much you’re eating.

The second way to avoid yo-yo dieting is proper exercise. It is recommended to visit a personal trainer in order to receive a personalized workout plan to properly introduce you to regular exercise and muscle building. It is also imperative to ignore diet pills at all costs.

Eating better, not less, and exercising properly will lead you to weight loss!

About the Author:
Dana Goldberg is the owner of Lose Weight Free Tips. Do not get engaged in a battle of willpower. Lose weight tips through self-knowledge, pleasant activities and self help.
Article Source: http://www.freearticlesdirectory.com