The Detox Diet Controversy

Detox or Starvation?
The detox diet has come under harsh scrutiny over the past few months. There are ample claims that the only weight lost is the water weight form the initial fast and the natural weight loss occurs from cutting caloric intake. The detox diet is quite restrictive, to the point where some people are calling it a starvation diet. There have been countless articles written by "experts" that state that the detox diet endangers people, stating that it creates yo-yo dieting, an unhealthy relationship with food, and even can contribute to the development of an eating disorder.

We also know that the vast majority of the "experts" who write these articles are those in the health and weight loss industry, such as nutritionists, health program supervisors, weight loss counselors, and lay people with an extreme interest in health and fitness. While I am certainly not suggesting that anyone is fabricating evidence or creating thought processes that are not accurate, I am however, indicating that when a person is educated to see things in one specific manner, it can be very difficult for them to see the same principles in a varying manner. For example, if a dietician goes to college and is taught that green beans cause cancer, that dietician will graduate believing that green beans cause cancer. If the same dietician returns for occasional classes to keep her education current, and over the course of the next ten years, the dietician is once again taught that green beans cause cancer, then the dietician will continue to believe this and teach her clients this as well. Fifteen years later someone comes along and points out to the dietician that green beans don't cause cancer, how likely is the dietician to believe that green beans don't cause cancer?
This phenomenon is not solely related to dieticians and health related fields. This phenomenon actual relates to every field. As a writer I was taught that you never speak in double negatives. It's a basic principle I apply every day. If someone tried to convince me that the rules had suddenly changed, right or wrong, it has already been ingrained in me that double negatives are inappropriate and you shouldn't use them. Thus, if I criticize this new theory without completely re-educating myself on the basic rules of English and grammar, then I am relying solely on my previous knowledge to dispute this issue.
So let's break away from conventional dieticians and explore the detox diet with a completely blank slate. I am not a dietician. I am just a writer is interested to know whether the detox diet is a healthy form of purification, or if it is a hidden form of starvation that does nothing but allow some water weight loss and makes you believe you are healthier. I have assembled three people who have done the detox diet and three who have not. Granted, this is not a huge percentage to pull from, but I am not using them as test subjects, only to ask them to verify or deny detox diet statements that are made from both testimonials from detox dieters and criticism from dieticians.

Fasting and Purity

For centuries people have fasted for purity. If we look back through even ancient texts, we will find that the fasting was not for spiritual purity alone, but for physical purity as well. Fasting for purity often left the spiritual seeker feeling initially drained and then once again reenergized within a thirty six hour period. The purity that they felt within their spirits was also a purity that they felt through their body. This argument can be easily criticized that they felt their body's purity because of their spiritual lifting. All three detox dieters, who were not in search of spiritual enlightenment, all agreed that they felt weak from the initial starvation, but began to feel "clearer," before the end of the second day. None of them agreed that they were experiencing starvation. They all felt their fasting led to at least some form of physical purity.

In medical science, there are times when doctors recommend fasting. Not including pre surgical procedures, most fasting requirements are for some form of "readying" or purity. Prior to starting diets that treat illnesses, such as the ketogenic diet, there is a period of fasting required beforehand.

Critics of the detox diet claim that the headaches and general all over yucky feeling people experience in the first week of a detox diet is from a lack of food. However, champions of the detox diet say that the headaches and the generally "yucky" feeling they get when fasting coincides with a noticeable change in their excretions. My three detox dieters all agreed that when their urine and bowel movements became noticeably more "aromatic" they found themselves with headaches and a feeling of overall fatigue. They did not contribute this feeling to fasting.

I did an online search and found eleven dieticians that negated the detox diet. Each one of them claimed that the headaches were from the fasting, however, each of them offered their own version of the detox diet. Interesting. The dieticians' versions included what could almost be considered fasting. Their idea of not fasting was eating some fruit and yogurt. Most detox diets do not include a total fasting period.
The critics of the detox diet are not impressed with the detox diet weight loss. They claim that the detox diet weight loss comes from the loss of water weight during the fasting period and will be regained quickly when normal eating is resumed. The detox diet weight loss comes from various sources. If you are doing a complete detoxification, including the colon, all three of my detox dieters claim that you can see where some of the weight loss comes from as you are flushing it down the toilet. Two of my detox dieters had to call plumbers from the excessive waste they produced. Their detox diet weight loss has remained, and two of them started the detox diet more than six months prior to this writing. Detox diet weight loss remained in all three of my dieters because they make better choices. They resumed normal eating habits, but they did not return to ingesting large amounts of junk foods. They claim that the detox diet showed them how important maintaining a low toxic level was to their overall health.

Just Another Diet Trend?

The critics of the detox diet claim that this diet trend, like all those that came before it, is no more effective than anything else that has been put out there. Whenever a new diet trend comes along, people rush to participate, and then claim that it doesn't work. Not all diets will work for everyone. I tried the Atkins diet for awhile with little or no results, but a man I knew lost nearly thirty pounds on it. However Atkins doesn't work very well for people who are not significantly overweight, according to some critics and apparently my body. So, does that mean that the detox diet is more than just another diet trend, or will it fall to the wayside after a bit like every other diet trend. Of my detox dieters, 2 out of three say it's not a diet trend. It is a method of cleansing the body, which other diet trends simply don't do. The 3rd dieter says it is a diet trend, but a highly effective diet trend, and if a diet trend is effective then who cares if it's a trend? Interesting point.
Diet trend and fads usually don't carry much weight behind their claims. They are simply a theory produced to suggest that the latest Diet trend is the most effective weight loss plan and everyone needs to jump on board before their obesity claims them forever. The detox diet has a different aim, so I really poked around when trying to determine if this was simply just a diet trend or more of a health revolution.
There is overwhelming evidence that Americans and Canadians are in the poorest health overall, considering the health care we have available. The healthcare we have at our fingertips should make us one of the healthiest nations in the world, but we rank very low on the list. Most doctors and scientists contribute this to the foods we put into our body and the chemicals we come in contact with when eating, working, and playing. For the health choices that we have available to us, we have one of the highest rates of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and childhood cancer rates in the world. Of course, we also rank ridiculously high on the list for overweight and obese citizens.

The detox diet is concerned with addressing the overall health of Americans, not just their waistline. The diet trends that have come along have been concerned with treating the waistline issues, but not the overall health. So, is the detox diet just another diet trend? By technical definition, a diet trend meaning any new method of eating introduced into society that creates a sudden onslaught of followers, well then yes. However, it can't be considered a diet trend by any other definition. It was simply not developed for the same reasons or the same fashion that diet trends hit the market.
Thin people can benefit from the detox diet. Overweight people can benefit from the detox diet. Everyone in between can benefit from the detox diet. The detox diet isn't targeted for weight loss. Thus it is really about a healthier lifestyle. Detox dieting is geared toward permanent health. After a significant purge of the body's chemical and toxic build up, the detox diet is geared to long lasting non-toxic lifestyles rather than diet trends, which tend to be geared toward lifestyles that manage weight.

Decide for Yourself

Discover for yourself the difference in a good quality detox diet and just another diet trend. The best consumer is an informed consumer. Check out detox manual and decide for yourself about the power of a good detox diet. After the research I did for this article, I am definitely stopping at detox manual and taking my own detox diet trip.

What Exactly is the Mediterranean Diet?

By its name alone, the Mediterranean diet attracts a lot of current and would be dieters due to its exotic name. But what is it exactly? One concern of the Mediterranean diet is that it allows 40% fat consumption compared to the 30% of the American Heart Association. Let's go into more detail as it seems a waste to just let it go without giving it a fair reading.

The Mediterranean diet evolved from the respective diets of countries surrounding the Mediterranean basin. Among the countries surrounding the basin are the south of France, southern Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece and Cyprus. Originally introduced by American doctor Ancel Keys, the diet failed to gain popular recognition until the 1990's. Based on scientific data, people around the Mediterranean basin had lower rates of cardiovascular disease compared to Americans who, for all intents and purposes, consumed the same relative amount of fat. One possible explanation is the presence of olive oil and red wine. Olive oil lowers cholesterol levels in the blood while red wine contains flavonoids. Flavonoids are anti-oxidants that also help the body when dealing with allergenic material, viruses and cancer causing agents.

Another contributing factor to a European's better health could be the fact that they tend to walk more than Americans do. Questions have also been raised as to whether the Mediterranean diet contributes enough iron and calcium to the diet. Green vegetables and goat cheese have been found to contribute these nutrients respectively.
The thing about the Mediterranean diet is that its foods are often rich and tasty thanks to olive oil. Normally, margarine and hydrogenated oils lack the flavor that olive oil gives out. Another part of the diet is regular but moderate consumption of red wine. Saturated fat consumption is low as opposed to high amounts of monounsaturated fat and dietary fiber. This is due to the fact that the diet includes big servings of fruits, vegetables, breads, cereals, olive oil and fish.

In comparing the food pyramid of the United States against the Mediterranean diet, people of the Mediterranean consumed fruits, vegetables and grain just as Americans do. The main difference lies in the fact that Americans consume more red meat. Consumption of cold water fish is also prominent in the Mediterranean diet. This results in reduced risks of heart disease, cancer and improved immune system functions. Compared to the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) pyramid, the Mediterranean diet contains little saturated and trans fat that raise cholesterol in the blood. The USDA's pyramid does not differentiate from healthy and unhealthy fats.

Characteristically speaking, the Mediterranean diet has high consumption of olive oil. Breads, cereals, fruits and vegetables likewise have a high rate of consumption in the diet. Fish and poultry as well as wine are moderately consumed while eggs and red meat are rated as very low in consumption.
The problem with most diets is that they tend to be extreme. Some diets, like the vegetarian diet, limit a person to just eating fruits, tofu, yogurt and vegetables. Other diets would require high protein intake while severely limiting intake of the other food groups. Like a user friendly computer, the Mediterranean diet does not go to extremes to achieve a desired result. The diet allows for consumption of tasty foods. This allows the dieter to actually enjoy the gastronomic delights normally prohibited by other diets. A solid testament to this fact rests on the presence of wine in the diet.

The most surprising aspect of the Mediterranean diet is that fat is regarded as a healthy dietary component. Keep in mind that it is the fat that gives food most of its flavor. Two substances, omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, are considered to be healthy and are not restricted in the diet. Olive oil, canola oil and nuts are good sources of monounsaturated fat while fish, vegetables and nuts contain the healthy omega-3 acids. Saturated fats and trans fat, on the other hand are considered to be unhealthy as they contribute to heart disease. Red meat, butter cheese and milk are sources of saturated fat while processed foods contain hydrogenated oils from which trans fat comes from.

From what has been written so far, and from all the sources and references where this article was taken from, the Mediterranean diet comes highly recommended by health professionals. The Mediterranean diet maintains a healthy but tasty, smorgasbord of delicious foods with which you can maintain a healthy diet without the need to sacrifice flavor and variety. While we appreciate the people who struggle and strive to come up with healthy diets, good food carries more weight in our stomachs.

Detox Diet Benefits

What to Expect when Detox Dieting
All detox diets are a little bit different. Some restrict food down to almost nothing while others allow for mostly veggies, beans, fruit, and rice. There are a few things that you should expect when beginning a detox diet, so that you can receive the full detox diets benefits.
Your body is significantly used to adjusting to toxins and poisons running through your body. One of the greatest detox diet benefits, naturally, is that you will rid your body of these toxins and poisons. There are side effects of receiving these detox diet benefits. If you are particularly used to that steaming cup of caffeinated beverage in the morning, you will experience caffeine withdrawal. While it may not seem like it while you are experiencing caffeine withdrawal, this is one of the detox diet benefits. Once your body has adjusted to the absence of caffeine, you should find that you have more energy.
Constipation is considered a leading cause of lethargy and fatigue. One of the detox diet benefits is the cleansing of the colon, which can cure even long term constipation. I had a room mate that was on narcotic pain relievers for over a year due to a severe injury. The narcotics kept her chronically constipated. The day she was finally through with her narcotic pain relievers, she went through a detox diet. She found that the detox diet benefits included relieving her body of the narcotic dependency as well as relieved her chronic constipation. She now regularly cleanses and detoxifies her colon when she is having difficulty going to the restroom, with obvious detox diet benefits as she returns from the restroom with a pleased grin on her face instead of the anguish she used to live in.
Even with the detox diet benefits, some people report feeling a bit weak about one week into the detox diet. Most detox diets do reduce food consumption, which can have an effect. The basic key is knowing how to elongate the effects of the foods you do eat. Those who really struggle with the lowered food consumption report that splitting the lunches into 2 meals works better for them than eating just the suggested breakfast and lunch. This still gives them the detox diet benefits but doesn't introduce additional foods into the scenario. Most detox diet experts state that provided you are not adding additional foods to the diet, segregating the meals into smaller snacks is perfectly acceptable.
The excessive water consumption associated with the detox diet is going to encourage your system to flush, which means you will be visiting the rest room much more often. This is a positive detox diet benefit. The more water that flushes your system the more toxins that will exit your body when you excrete it, and excreting it often will enhance the productivity of the entire process.
One of the little known detox diet benefits is the regeneration of the liver that can occur while following a detox diet. Milk thistle is typically recommended as part of the supplementation of the detox diet. Milk thistle aids in the liver's ability to regenerate. It's not a cure for liver disease, however it can help in the prevention of a liver disease, along with other changes to your lifestyle.
What Not to Expect when Detox Dieting
Detox dieting is designed to alleviate the ailments associated with large quantities of toxins that are built up in the human body. Detox dieting is not a "cure" for every disease. While most people experience great relief from every day annoying symptoms, detox dieting does not eliminate diseases that are already in the system. For instance, you can not rid you body of cancer cells by detox dieting. The cancer cells, for starters are not an actual toxin. They may have been caused by toxins, but the cells themselves are not something that can be flushed away.
Most people drop several pounds when detox dieting. There are those who drop a significant amount of weight when detox dieting. This is normal, and while some of it can be contributed to the flushing of fat cells, water weight, and calorie reduction, there is some permanent weight loss happening provided you do not return to eating habits that are probable for weight gain. This means that if you were prone to eating potato chips and cookies prior to detox dieting and you return to eating potato chips and cookies after detox dieting, you will gain the weight back. This may seem obvious, but there are plenty of foods that people believe contain a low calorie and low fat content but in reality they contain quite the opposite. An avocado for example contains nearly three times the amount of fat and calories as a measured serving of enriched white rice. While detox dieting, learn to recognize the foods you are putting into your body and what they actually do once they enter your gullet.
Detox dieting is not a cure for serious emotional or mental conditions, such as clinical depression. While many people admit to feeling less "depressed" during and after detox dieting, there is a difference between situational depression and clinical depression. Clinical depression requires medication. Detox dieting can not take the place of medication that is necessary to function on a day to day basis. Situational depression may be alleviated through detox dieting simply because you are taking control of your body, your health, in essence, your situation. These two depressions are significantly different.
How is Detox Dieting Different from Other Diet Plans?
Diet plans are a dime a dozen. There are grapefruit diet plans and the Atkins diet plan and the green tea diet plan and the national chain diet plans. An individual can spend countless hours and thousands of dollars "trying on" various diet plans. Some will work while others will ultimately fail. Why? Because not all diet plans will work for everyone. Does detox dieting work for everyone? Yes. Why? Because losing weight is a by product of the goal. The goal is to clean the body of the various toxins and wastes which have accumulated over the years. This is a process of ridding the body of the ailing chemicals we introduce it to on a daily basis while eliminating the build up of residual toxins. Weight loss occurs as a result of numerous factors, but weight loss in not the primary goal of a detox diet plan.
Keep in mind that not all detox diet plans are the same. Some detox diet plans are put together by professionals who understand the body's ability to cleanse itself of these harmful chemicals. While diet plans are typically put together by an entrepreneurial spirit, the detox diet plan was actually something that originated by a naturopathist, an individual who studies the various body types and how they process things on their own unique level. Since the detox diet plan was developed, there have been a remarkable number of "knock off" detox diet plans that have shown up on the market. These are all plans that suggest you stop eating and drink only diluted juice for several days (beyond twenty four hours this becomes unhealthy) and then limits food intake so dramatically that people find it impossible to stick to. If you're going to try any diet plan at all, it would simply make sense to start at the beginning. The beginning of healthy weight loss is a healthy body.
The dramatic detox diet benefits is that people who tried to detoxify their bodies using the original detox diet plan found themselves losing weight as a welcome surprise. Detox dieting has grown in popularity due to its dual effect. Detox dieting cleanses the body of the toxins and as a result, weight loss occurs. There simply isn't another diet plan that can match that no matter what they claim.
We live in a cluttered and chemically enriched society. Compare our lifestyles, our food products, and our basic need for heat and eat meals to the lifestyles and foods of people in remote and natural regions such as the Pacific Islands. People in natural regions are healthier overall. They eat natural foods that haven't been laced with chemicals and they live natural lives that don't revolve around the constant breathing of polluted air. Their bodies are not only healthier, but they are naturally thinner. They have fewer health complaints such as headaches and toothaches and stomach cramping.
The detox diet plan can help you jumpstart your body toward a healthier state of being. Naturally, effective detox dieting requires an effective detox diet plan. You really shouldn't just linger out there in cyberspace hoping the right detox diet plan will pop up into your browser. There are very few detox diet plans that I would dare put my stamp of approval on. However, one in particular I have found has excellent reviews by some actual detox dieters. Finding an authentic detox diet plan that is effective, safe, and of course reliable shouldn't be left to luck.

Bobby Ryatt, If you enjoyed reading this articles, then go to my website where the detox guide is available. You will have all the information on the subject. The facts will open your eyes and expose some real truths.

Hoodia Gordonii|Does it Really Promote Weight Loss?

Hoodia Gordonii has quickly become one of the most popular and best-selling weight loss supplements of all time. Everyday, more and more people are discovering its potent appetite-suppressing and fat-burning abilities. Hoodia has also been shown to work well at suppressing thirst.
A Brief History
Found naturally in the wild, the cactus-like Hoodia Gordonii plant is indigenous to South Africa. Hoodia Gordonii has been grown and consumed by the local Bushman tribes of South Africa for hundreds of years. They were the first to discover the amazing benefits that the Hoodia plant could offer. These tribes would travel across the Kalahari Desert by foot on week long hunting expeditions. Lack of food and water became a major issue during these long, hot, and grueling trips. To help these hunters suppress their appetite and stave off hunger, they ate the stems of the Hoodia Gordonii plant that were growing wild across the desert. An anthropologist observing these local people noticed them eating the hoodia stems and became curious. He observed some more and started to take notes. Later scientists began studying this peculiar plant at labs all over South Africa. The research showed that there was definitely a link between hoodia gordonii and appetite suppression so they studied further. Studies confirmed that there was also a link between Hoodia Gordonii and weight loss. As news spread of its undeniable effects on hunger, Hoodia went on to be patented and marketed all over the world as a dietary supplement in both pill and liquid form.
Why are People so Excited About Hoodia?
When hoodia was mentioned by several celebrities and media members, a huge buzz was created and demand soared. There were many other reasons for hoodia's popularity as well. Hoodia has the ability to naturally suppress the human appetite. Supplementing with hoodia reduces your cravings for food and decreases appetite. A decreased appetite means you eat less. If you eat less, you lose weight. It's that simple. This does not, however, mean that you should starve yourself. The human body needs a certain number of calories a day for optimal performance and to function properly. Hoodia should be used to control overeating, not as a starvation aid.
Hoodia is not a diet stimulant, nor is it a drug .Taking Hoodia does not come with the same uncomfortable side effects as many of the popular ephedra diet pills of the past such as rapid heart beat, nausea, and even dizziness.
When choosing a hoodia product it is important to look for a high quality product from a reputable company. As with all supplements, the product manufacture should be a reputable one. Do your research. This will ensure you are getting what you are paying for. One of the more popular hoodia supplements is made by Olympian Labs. As with the majority of hoodia supplements, Olympian Labs Hoodia is priced below $20. Be wary of companies charging more as hoodia is relatively inexpensive to cultivate.
Remember, it is still important to eat healthy, exercise and take a multivitamin to ensure healthy weight loss and overall well being. Diabetic as well as children should not take Hoodia. Pregnant women should refrain from taking Hoodia and as well as any other medications or drugs that are not prescribed by their doctor. As always, it is best to consult your doctor if you have any health concerns before starting any weight loss program.

70 Things Every Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Woman Should Know|Exercise and Pregnancy

The following are 70 things every pregnant and non-pregnant woman should know about exercise and pregnancy in general:
1. Myths surrounding exercise and pregnancy:
Exercise during pregnancy was thought to cause miscarriage, hormonal imbalance, over-stressing of the joints, redirecting blood flow away from the fetus, to the muscle, overheating the fetus, uterine bleeding, displacement or rupture of the placenta, entangled umbilical cord, breech position, increase risk of c-section, high blood pressure, abnormal genes in the baby, growth retardation, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, premature labor, prolonged labor, fetal distress, still birth, low birth weight, low apgar scores, difficulties for the baby after birth, and difficult maternal recovery after birth.
2. How the myths came and went:
Many of the myths, about the effects of prenatal exercise, were perpetuated by both the fitness and medical community out of fear and ignorance. Such myths have been dis-proven by modern medical research.
3. How exercise affects the woman's fetus:
Currently, all medical studies point to positive effects on the fetus as a result of exercising throughout the pregnancy. There are less complications during pregnancy when exercising. The woman's fetus becomes tougher, leaner, and more able to adapt and handle stress.
4. Roles of pregnancy hormones:
The following are the six hormones that are produced during pregnancy and their roles: Relaxin, is a hormone that relaxes and softens the cartilage and ligaments that support the joints to prepare the body for an easy pregnancy; Androgen, is a hormone produced in men, and helps to give the pregnant woman more strength, energy, and sex drive; Progesterone is a hormone that supports the growth of the fetus, uterus, breast, and even speeds up the metabolism. Progesterone also is responsible for fat accumulation to cushion the uterus and storage during the first and second trimester; Estrogen is a hormone that works with progesterone to maintain the pregnancy. In pregnancy, estrogen makes the uterus more elastic, softens the joints, retains fluid, and increases the size of the breast; hCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone produced by the placenta to stimulate the ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone; Insulin, a hormone that permits glucose to enter the muscle cells, can cause hypo or hyperglycemia in a pregnant woman if blood sugar levels are not maintained with a proper diet.
5. Diastasis Recti:
Diastasis recti (abdominal separation) occurs when the abdominal muscles are stretched out, as they are in pregnancy. Diastasis is the space in the mid abdominal region. Such separation generally occurs in the second or third trimester and is painless.
6. Dizziness and faintness in pregnant women:
When a pregnant woman feels dizzy or faint, it is usually due to poor circulation. This poor circulation may be caused by blood pooled into the legs from lying in the supine position or standing for an extended period of time.
7. Dizziness alleviation:
Use the legs to help pump blood around by moving around or walking. Remember to eat often and do not go more than four hours without having something to eat.
8. Primary reasons not to exercise during pregnancy:
The ACOG recommends that women who are pregnant, should not exercise if certain conditions or risk factors are present. Such factors include cardiac, vascular, pulmonary, and/or thyroid diseases. Other contradictions include diabetes, seizure disorder, obesity, hypertension, anemia, and problems with the back, joints, and/or muscles.
9. Pregnancy induced hypertension:
A woman who suffers from pregnancy induced hypertension is in a high-risk pregnancy and should not take part in a regular exercise program. Some light exercises and slow-moderate walks may be performed.
10. Best method for a pregnant woman to measure exercise intensity:
Due to the fact that the resting heart rate of a pregnant woman can rise up to twenty beats per minute over normal levels, measuring exercise intensity with heart rates will simply not work. The rate of perceived exertion should be used to measure exercise intensity because it involves listening to one's body and is easy to use.
11. Ten workout guidelines for beginners:

1. Start slowly and gradually increase exercise intensity.
2. Consult with a doctor, and get written permission before beginning any exercise program.
3. After each workout, cool down and stretch slowly and carefully.
4. Listen to your body and change the program as you see fit.
5. Move your legs and walk around between exercises.
6. Do not exercise in hot or humid weather.
7. Practice proper posture, alignment, and muscle control.
8. Avoid interval training.
9. Get a complete physical before you start any exercise program.
10. Do not exercise at altitudes of 8,000 ft or higher.

12. Benefits of strength training during pregnancy:
Strength training will improve muscle tone and strength. The added strength can aid in carrying the added weight of pregnancy, improve stability, balance, energy, sense of well-being and self-esteem. The threshold for pain will also be improved.
13. Popular sports and activities pregnant women should avoid:
Gymnastics, roller skating, snowboarding, softball, soccer, and volleyball.
14. Three basic exercises to include in an exercise program:
Kegels, Abdominal Pulses, and Pelvic Tilts.
15. How to do Kegels, Abdominal Pulses, and Pelvic Tilts:
Kegels- Visualize the pelvic floor muscles, starting at the anus. Squeeze the muscles around the anus tightly. After a few times, focus on the sphincters around the opening of the vagina. Squeeze them tightly and then relax. Then squeeze and pull the perineum in and up, holding as long as possible before relaxing. Remember to exhale as you squeeze and pull up, and inhale as you release.
Abdominal Pulse- Begin by sitting on the buttocks with the legs crossed up against your wall or bed. Inhale and let your lungs expand with air. Relax the abdominal muscles. Exhale and contract the abdominal muscles tightly by pulling them in. Repeat for ten to fifty repetitions for two sets.
Pelvic Tilts- This exercise can be performed supine, standing, seated, side lying, on all fours, or on a ball. Begin by sitting on the ball and walking forward, rolling with it until the shoulders and head are resting on top of the ball. Pull the abdominal muscles in and contract your glutes as you tilt your pelvis forward to round the lower back and exhale. Perform ten repetitions for two sets.
16. Three exercises to help pregnant women stretch the lower back:
Pelvic Tilt, Cat Stretch, Opposite Arm and Leg Raise.
17. Physical and psychological effect of confined bed rest:
After just twenty-one days of total bed rest, the body deconditions by twenty-five percent. Psychological effects include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and a negative mentality.
18. Not confined to bed rest, but still considered high risk:
Chronic hypertension, thyroid, cardiac, vascular, or lung disease, fetus in the breech position, anemic, and a mother carrying twins.
19. How posture, stretching, relaxation, breathing, and yoga are beneficial:
Practicing good posture will decrease the strain on the musculoskeletal system. Yoga and stretching lengthen the muscles, improve posture, and aid in relaxation. Breathing techniques help to expand lung capacity, helping to offset the pressure of the growing uterus on the lungs.
20. Advice for women experiencing neck and shoulder pain:
Strengthen the upper back and neck; Stretch the chest; Stretch the neck forward, to the sides, and in half-circles from one shoulder to the other; Use a firm mattress; Wear a bra at night; Get neck and shoulder massages; Use hip mobility exercises; For severe pain, walk with crutches until pregnancy is over.
21. Five yoga positions a pregnant woman may want to avoid:
Avoid shoulder stands, down dog, back bends, plow pose, and seated forward bends.
22. Diaphragmatic breathing:
Sit comfortably in a chair while holding the belly button with both hands. Breath in and concentrate on slow inhalation, letting the chest and abdominal cavity fill with air. Expel the air out slowly, and feel the abdomen deflate.
23. Possible result of women having very low body fat before and/or during pregnancy:
If a woman has very low body fat before and/or during pregnancy, her estrogen production may decrease, which could cause infertility or even miscarriage. If fat is extremely limited, the mother will use protein sources for energy and that can inhibit the proper development of the baby.
24. Weight gain distribution of 24-28 pounds in a pregnant woman:
Forty percent of the weight gain is accounted for by the fetus, and the other sixty percent is from maternal change. Most of the weight that is gained is extra water. Much of the necessary maternal fat gain is deposited internally and externally in the pelvic and abdominal region during the first trimester. The baby will accumulate its own fat and fat cells during the last ten weeks of pregnancy.
25. Morning sickness:
Morning sickness is a physical reaction to the hormonal influx and other changes your body is experiencing. This may increase estrogen levels and, in turn, increase sensitivity to certain smells which may cause nausea. A high intake of complex carbohydrates and protein can help decrease nausea. Eating smaller meals more often will also help and vitamin B6 has been shown to alleviate morning sickness.
26. Why a pregnant woman should avoid hair coloring and chemicals:
It is important that pregnant women do not use hair coloring and other chemicals because they can be toxic to the unborn baby. Do not inhale or let chemicals touch the skin.
27. Suggested servings of water when pregnant:
A pregnant woman should drink at least 10 cups of water throughout the day because dehydration can increase body temperature, slow blood and nutrient flow to the baby, and cause premature labor.
28. Most important vitamin to stock up on before conceiving:
Folic acid is the most important vitamin to stock up on before conceiving. The body needs to have enough folate in storage before implantation of the fertilized egg in order to prevent spinal and brain deformations called neural tube effects.
29. Reconsidering consumption of milk as part of an everyday diet:
Milk, non-fat or full fat, it may exacerbate and/or contribute to a variety of problems, such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis, migraines/headaches, allergies, colds, asthma, ear infections, thyroid and metabolic problems, behavioral problems, skin problems, fluid retention, bloating, abdominal cramps, and osteoporosis.
30. Five benefits of exercising during pregnancy:
Exercise, during pregnancy, increases blood volume, heart chamber volumes, maximal cardiac output, blood vessel growth, the ability to dissipate heat, and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
31. Bone density, muscle tone and ligament integrity during pregnancy:
During pregnancy bone density is maintained and ligaments relax while changes in muscle function are unclear.
32. Several early pregnancy issues:
Several early pregnancy issues include miscarriage and congenital defects. Miscarriages are basically spontaneous abortions of the fetus and are common. Congenital defects are due to abnormal development of the placenta.
33. Steps to avoid miscarriage:
Stay hydrated, eat multiple meals throughout the day, and exercise regularly.
34. How exercise affects fertility:
Exercise has not been shown to decrease fertility in women, but actually slightly increases fertility.
35. Physiological effects of beginning an exercise program during pregnancy:
Starting a regular fitness program during pregnancy increases birth weight unless the volume of exercise is very high. Starting exercise in the second month reduces birth weight and newborn fat mass, but only if exercise intensity and frequency are very high.
36. Regular exercise and premature birth:
Continuing a regular, vigorous exercise throughout pregnancy does not increase the incidence of either membrane rupture or premature birth.
37. Active pregnant women vs sedentary:
Women who exercise tend to be leaner both during and after the pregnancy and recover faster than sedentary women.
38. Can women continue exercise throughout pregnancy:
Yes, women can continue to exercise throughout their pregnancy and in fact should, but if exercise is suddenly stopped mid or later in pregnancy the baby could become "fatter" than normal babies. This should not happen if regular exercise is continued for the entire pregnancy.
39. Psychological benefits of exercise for pregnant women:
Pregnant women who exercise regularly tend to maintain a positive attitude about themselves, their pregnancy, and their soon to be labor and delivery.
40. Positive points to implement:
Remember that you will come out of your pregnancy leaner than most sedentary women if you continue to regularly exercise throughout the pregnancy. Not only that, but your baby will be stronger, leaner, and more able to adapt to its surroundings if regular exercise is continued throughout pregnancy.
41. Four big contra-indications to exercise:
The big four contra-indications to exercise are injury, disease, pain, and bleeding.
42. Spontaneous patterns of exercise performance after birth:
There were many active women who resumed exercising within the two weeks following the birth of their child. Many of these active women, within the first year after birth, returned to their formal pre-pregnancy fat levels and even exceeded pre-pregnancy exercise performance levels. It is okay to exercise after pregnancy if it does not hurt or make the women heavily bleed.
43. Key points for exercise during the first six weeks after birth:
The woman should exercise 3 or more times a week; all exercises should feel good and enhance her sense of well-being; adequate rest is essential.
44. Key rules for exercise after pregnancy:
Be sure that the amount of exercise is enough, but not too much; be sure that the exercises feel good; pay attention to the little things; do not chart your performance progress; do not ignore fatigue or pain.
45. Three "absolute contra-indications" to exercise after pregnancy:
Bright red bleeding that last for several hours. If it hurts anywhere then stop, and breast infection or abscess.
46. Instructions and safety concerns for both the mother and baby:
Focus on monitoring performance, well-being, and the growth and development of the baby. One concern is milk production and can be used as an index for monitoring the growth and development of the baby.
47. How exercise has been proven to be a stress reliever:
Just taking walks on most days of the week can elevate your mood and prepare your body for the changes that occur in pregnancy. Other aerobic activities also relieve stress.
48. Stability:
Stability is the capacity of the body to maintain or return to a state of equilibrium. Exercising before, during, and after pregnancy helps to improve stability.
49. "Move from the core"
The phrase "move from the core" refers to when the deep muscles of the spine and the abdominal muscles that support the spine react quickly to the changes in movement which respond first in keeping the spine aligned.
50. Why the kegel exercise is important for the expecting mother:
Kegel exercises help to strengthen the pelvic muscles, which in return help to prevent urine leakage during and after pregnancy, as well as restoring muscle tone after delivery. If a pregnant woman should avoid strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, she may experience bowel and bladder incontinence problems later in life. It is for the above reasons that kegel exercises are the most important exercises a pregnant woman can ever do.
51. Why blood pooling is dangerous and what can be done:
Blood pooling is dangerous, because it shifts blood flow away from the internal organs and puts additional stress on the heart, causing less oxygen to travel to the brain and the fetus. This could cause pregnant women to feel faint or even pass out. To avoid blood pooling, it is important that the legs are in motion when not exercising to increasing blood flow back up to the heart. An effective cool-down helps to reestablish circulation and prevent blood pooling.
52. Four common changes during early pregnancy:
1. The pregnancy hormones tend to slow the digestive system.
2. The pressure from the enlarged uterus relaxes the pelvic floor muscles.
3. Emotions are affected by the new pregnancy hormones.
4. The growing uterus puts pressure on the diaphragm.
53. How a pregnant woman can reduce the incidence of nausea:
The incidence of nausea can be reduced by doing the following: Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day which will help prevent over-distending of the stomach while providing the much-needed nutrients; take prenatal vitamins with evening meal so, if they upset your stomach, it is while you sleep; keep crackers by the bedside to snack on in the morning; eat calcium-rich foods; suck on ice cubes; sniff or suck on lemons; wear a sea-band; place three fingers on your right hand on the inner aspect of your left wrist with the ring finger of the right hand directly over the wrist and hold firmly.
54. Reducing constipation during pregnancy:
Constipation and eventually hemorrhoids are caused by the increase in progesterone which slows the digestive tract. Drinking eight to ten glasses of water a day along with eating high fiber foods should help relieve constipation. Exercising also helps to relieve constipation.
55. Steps to take to reduce leg cramps during pregnancy:
The primary cause of leg cramps in pregnant women is slowed circulation, calcium deficiency, and consuming too many carbohydrate drinks. For leg cramps at night, place a pillow between the knees to help improve circulation. For calcium deficiency caused cramps, be sure to consume adequate amounts of calcium in your diet or take a calcium supplement. Vitamin C may also help to prevent leg cramps. If you feel cramping, flex the foot of the affected leg so the toes point toward the head. If cramping persist or is hot to touch then seek medical advice.
56. Three tips to help reduce water retention during pregnancy:
1. Avoid ingesting large amounts of sodium.
2. Perform ankle circles throughout the day.
3. Whenever possible prop feet up on a chair or stool.
57. Pregnancy gingivitis and how it can be avoided:
Pregnancy gingivitis is when the gums swell and bleed which may lead to infection and discomfort. To prevent gingivitis brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft nylon brush. It is ideal to brush after every meal and before bed. See your dentist at least twice during the pregnancy for checkup and cleaning.
58. Importance of diaphragmatic breathing for the expecting mother:
Diaphragmatic breathing stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the body. The more relaxed the women is during labor and delivery, the less discomfort she will experience.
59. Nostril breathing and its benefit:
Nostril breathing is the process of breathing through one nostril for up to five cycles at a time to help aerate the sinuses and bring balance into both sides of the nose.
60. Optimal range of weight gain during pregnancy:
The general guidelines recommend that a pregnant woman gains 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy. The preferred scenario is that you gain about 4 to 6 pounds the first trimester, 11 to 15 pounds the second trimester, and 11 to 15 pounds the third trimester.
61. Average amount of Calories a healthy pregnant woman should consume:
The average amount of calories a pregnant woman should consume is around 1800 Calories. Active women who exercise an hour or more a day should consume 2400 Calories. Calorie intake should be increased by an additional 350-450 calories per day during the second and third trimester.
62. Five tips for avoiding excessive weight gain during pregnancy:
1. Eat an adequate breakfast. Skipping meals will attribute to eating in excess amounts later in the day and could possibly make you feel light head mid morning.
2. Drink at least eight glasses of water each day because dehydration can be interpreted as hunger causing the ingestion of unnecessary Calories.
3. Choose foods that are high in fiber, low in fat, and low in sugar because fatty foods can make you feel tired, and sugary foods can spike insulin.
4. Plan meals to balance your diet ahead of time with the essential nutrients you need.
5. Avoid eating with people who want you to overeat. Such individuals can cause you to eat an additional 750 extra calories for social reasons alone.
63. Some foods to avoid during pregnancy:
Do not eat raw seafood that is not frozen and sealed tightly with an "A" rating, soft cheeses, and free range eggs.
64. Benefits of weight-bearing exercise for the expecting mother:
Improved stamina; more energy; enhanced ability to handle heat stress; improved musculoskeletal function; increased metabolic capacity; increased insulin sensitivity; decreased maternal discomforts; easier labor and delivery; positive attitude and outlook of the pregnancy.
65. How exercise improves the mothers ability to handle heat stress:
Exercising regularly helps to increase blood flow to the skin which in turn helps dissipate heat. Exercise also decreases the core temperature threshold for perspiring.
66. How exercise can improve labor and delivery:
Women who continue a regular weight-bearing exercise program throughout their pregnancy have shown a marked decrease in the need for pain relief during labor, in the incidence of maternal exhaustion, and in the need for artificially rupturing the membranes to progress the labor. Women who follow a weight-bearing exercise routine throughout their entire pregnancies also have a lower incidence of induced labors, episiotomies, abnormal fetal heart rates, and the need for operative interventions.
67. Symptoms of over-training:
Some symptoms of over-training include fatigue, pain, loss of motivation, increased susceptibility of injury, and common infections. Over-training can negatively affect the baby by limiting its oxygen supply and nutrients.
68. Avoid pressure on the Inferior Vena Cava during the second trimester:
It is important to avoid pressure of the Inferior Vena Cava because it interferes with blood flow getting to the heart and lungs and results in less blood going to the aorta to the baby. When exercising on your back, putting pressure on the Vena Cava, you not only restrict blood flow to your muscles but also to your baby.
69. Healthy food plan for new mothers and benefit of exercise during first month after birth:
The daily diet of a new mother who is trying to lose her pregnancy fat should consume the following postpartum each day: 6 servings of whole grains; 2 servings of low-fat dairy; 2 servings of lean protein; 1 serving of nuts, legumes; at least 4 servings of vegetables; 2 servings of fruit; 2 servings of plant oils. The following should be consumed when lactating: 9 servings of whole; 3 servings of low-fat dairy; 2 servings of lean protein; 2 serving of nuts, legumes; at least 4 servings of vegetables; 3 servings of fruit; 2 servings of plant oils.
Exercise during the first month after delivery helps the mother recover postpartum, return to pre-pregnancy proportions, and increase energy.
70. Examples for developing a lifetime of fitness for the whole family:

• Plan family fitness time at least twice a week.
• Choose activities that allow everyone to participate in.
• Follow good exercise principles, including warming up, cooling down, and stretching.
• Include other family members.
• Emphasize the importance of having fun.
• Use physical activity as a reward, not food.
• Dance with your family.
• Provide space in your yard for sports.
• Always use the stairs going down and up, if you and your family can tolerate it.
• Keep fresh fruits and vegetables washed, cut up, and ready to eat for quick snacks.
• Take a family fitness vacation such as skiing, canoeing, camping, or hiking.
• Select fitness oriented gifts for birthdays and holidays.

Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program

Exercise and it benefit on your Your Heart|Burning the Fat: Exercise and Your Body

Everyone knows that working out is good for your body. Do you really understand the correlation between exercise and heart health? There are many people who swear that doing exercise is the best way for them to feel healthy and to be better in every aspect of their life. When it comes right down to it, exercise and heart health is something that you want to keep an eye on because it is something that you can really focus on to get more healthy. There are simply more benefits to exercise than you can talk about in an article. The correlation between exercise and heart health is something that you simply cannot deny because it is something that is going to stay with you and with your health forever. When you look at exercise and heart health you are going to see that the more exercise you can do, the healthier your heart is going to become.
This might seem like a general idea, and yes, it is very general in that the more you work, the better your heart will work for you. There are specific reasons that this is the case. When it comes to the relationship between exercise and heart health the basic point is that by doing exercise you are giving yourself a work out where your heart and lungs are constantly moving faster than they are when you are resting. This means that as you work out, your heart and lungs are forced to work harder. The more that you do, the more your heart has to do for you.
By making exercise part of your routine, you are forcing your heart to work each day, and this is going to make it stronger. Basically, when it comes to exercise and heart health the point is that they are connected. The better your heart is doing, the more exercise you are going to be able to do without stopping. And the more exercise you can do, the healthier your heart is going to be. Like anything, when it comes to exercise and heart health you are going to have to work your way up. If you haven't done much working out, your heart isn't going to be able to take very much right away. Exercise and heart health are something that you have to work up to, so take your time and talk to your doctor in order to develop a great exercise routine that is going to clearly benefit you and your health.
Burning the Fat: Exercise and Your Body
There are many great things about starting an exercise program for your body. One of the greatest things about exercise is that you can use it to burn fat in ways that are easier on your body than dieting. It is very simple to burn fat using a good exercise program, because there are many ways that you can train your body to do the work that it is supposed to in order to really get the most out of the exercise that you are doing. While you are building up a sweat and working on your heart rate, all of your muscles are also getting great things out of the workout that you are doing. As you bring new blood and oxygen to all of your body systems, you are going to find that you are giving yourself the best chance to really get rid of all that unwanted fat as you go along. Working hard to burn fat is something that you can finally take control of when you are doing exercises on a regular basis.
When you body is in constant motion, all of the body systems are working hard to maintain body functions at a normal rate. Because your muscles need to be moving more, your heart is going to have to work harder because the only way to get your muscles to move faster is to supply them with more blood and therefore more oxygen. Because your heart has to work harder your lungs needs to work harder to provide your heart with the oxygen that it needs to keep pumping. All of these things are going to work in tandem with each other to make a situation in which you are really getting the most out of your entire work out. When all of these systems are working together, you are going to find that you are much stronger than you think you would be. As your entire body fights to work harder, you are going to find that actually you are burning fat because your body needs energy to keep moving and to stay moving at a certain rate. It will find this energy in the stored pockets of fat that you have in your body. All of these things are going to happen quickly, and you will find that you are going to be much better off as you start to work out more often.
Intense! How Tough should your Exercise Workout be?
Exercise are great for losing weight and staying healthy because it strengthen your breathing and heart as well as help you burn fat. However, many people don't know or understand how to do a workout in order to best maximize the results. Intensity is a very important aspect of any workout, so if you want to get the most out of your exercise, make sure that you're following these three golden rules:

1. Find that intensity that is your sweet spot. If you work out too intensely, you may injure yourself or will not see results. If you don't work out intensely enough, you will lose weight or grow stronger. Therefore, you have to work with a program that has just the right intensity for your. When trying new exercises, try to make sure that they include enough weights or speed to make the workout hard, but not impossible. Remember also that you will need to re-work the intensity of your workout as your tolerance and endurance increases, so take a look at your routine every week or two and make necessary changes.


2. The second rule of your workout is to be safe. Over training is a huge problem because it puts you and those around you in danger. When you under train, you see no results, which may push you intensity. That's good, but too much and you'll be vomiting before the workout is over and possibly injuring yourself. If you are training properly, your muscles should be sore, but your joints should not. Never do an intense exercise in which you cannot control your form or breathing. Instead, take breaks and use lower weights or speed to get back on track. This method will help you get more out of your workout anyway. In any case, if you are injured during a workout, call for help immediately from those around you. It is a good idea to workout with a partner or to at least let someone know that you're working out in case anything happens to you.

Lastly, build intensity instead of jumping into the deep end. When you are starting to exercise, you won't be able to suddenly run the Comrades marathon! Building up slowly will help prevent injury, as talking about in the second step, but it can also help you to not get frustrated. If you slowly build up your exercise routine, you'll be able to find success more readily.Popular Exercise Machines
When it comes to exercise, you might find that you get a better workout on a machine rather than actually running or jumping rope. Remember that like every part of a healthy workout routine, exercises have to be tailored to your body and what is best for your health. You have to work together with your doctor and or a personal trainer if you have one, to develop a system that works for you, and to make sure that whatever you are doing it is the best for your body and your mind as well. Machines have become very popular when it comes to working out because sometimes they are easier to use and easier to get used to. You don't have to worry about running outside when it is cold out or finding a way to get your workout when you don't' have time if you have a machine in your home that you can use.
The point of exercise is that you are getting your heart rate up and you are getting into shape. You can do this on a machine as well as running or jumping rope.There are several different machines that you might want to try. The two easiest and most popular would be tread mills and bikes. On both of these, you can find that you can get a great work out. The point of an exercise work out is to get your heart rate going, so if you are riding a bike or walking or running on a treadmill, you are going to be having your exercise. The reason that these two machines are so popular is that they are handy. Riding an exercise bike can be something that you do in your living room no matter what time of day or temperature it is when you finally get around to working. Treadmills are the same too, you can get all of the exercise that you need while you are at home.
Having machines to use for your exercise is something that you should be able to do quite easily no matter where you decide to work out. As long as you are sure that you are still getting the same amount of exercise, you'll be able to see the benefits of working on an exercise machine right away. It can be the best way that you have to get your work out completed and to get healthier!
When Workouts Go Wrong: Exercise and Injuries
Exercises are great to get your heart pumping and your body sweating. You can use exercises in order to lose weight, build endurance, and stay heart healthy. However, there is also a downside to exercising for some people. If you are not careful, you could get injured due to exercise. Therefore, it is important to follow these tips to making sure you are exercising in a fun and healthy way for your body. First and foremost, when you are doing exercises consider your dress code. Wearing good shoes is important. Exercising require lots of movement, so when you have worn shoes or laces that come untied often, there is a good chance you may trip, slip and fall. You should also consider the other articles of clothing you're wearing.
If they are too constricting or too heavy, you may become more easily overheated. Your clothing should breathe well and not be too tight in order to prevent you from injury.Also consider your workout area, especially if you are working out at home. When you're at home, you'll need to make sure that you area is large enough for you to move and not bang into anything. It is also crucial that you service your workout equipment to make sure that it is in the best shape possible and will not cause injury. Your workout area at home should also be clean. When you workout, you sweat a lot and breathe heavily, so if you're doing that in a dirty environment, you could pick up some nasty bacteria or viral infections. To be able to stay safe you must NOT push yourself too much. While it is important to push yourself to have the best and most intense workout possible.
When you push yourself too hard, however, you may find yourself pulling muscles, experiencing cramps, or otherwise injuring your body. Your doctor can tell you more about how to stay safe while exercising. Remembering to warm up and cool down is necessary, as is doing the right exercises for your body, age, and gender. When you work out, you should feel your best and not worried about injury. Staying safe is important. If you are hurt, you won't be able to do exercises while you recover, and you will miss out on days or even weeks of training. If your health is important to you, so is safety, take the right measures to be safe whenever you hit the gym or when working out at home.