WRAPPING YOUR MIND AROUND THE “NEW YOU” AFTER WEIGHT LOSS
5 Common Things That Happen When
You Lose A Noticeable Amount Of Weight
Whenever someone chooses to commit to a weight loss journey, it’s not just a physical transformation that happens, but a mental transformation as well. Regardless of how long it takes for people to reach their goal weight, there are significant things that occur along the way that impact their body image and confidence. For all of the positive reinforcement once receives, they might also notice some negativity or odd reactions from those they are close to. Read on for tips and insights from leading experts that will offer clarity and solutions for anyone seeking to transform or who already has.
- You shed friends along with pounds.
Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD a NYC based licensed neuropsychologist, a teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College, explains that, “It is normal to lose friends as you lose pounds. As you see the payoff from the lifestyle changes you’ve made you may feel disconnected with friends who may still eat and drink things you no longer do. You’re evolving,” offers Dr. Hafeez. She also adds that, “It’s common to notice jealousy, and digs. You may even experience exclusion from dinners out presuming you wouldn’t want to indulge.”
Have faith that your true friends will love you at any size. “It will actually be difficult to tolerate any gossip, negativity or activities that are counterproductive. The last thing you need are people who bring you down when you are doing something positive for your well being. Look out for yourself. At times that may mean distancing from certain people,” advises Dr. Hafeez.
- Loose skin becomes the new thing you notice.Once you reach your goal weight, you may love how you look in clothes but naked in or a bathing suit is a whole other story. This is most common when weight loss is significant. Even when weight training is part of the regimen, loose skin does happen.
Dr. John Zannis a board certified plastic surgeon based in New Bern, North Carolina frequently sees and treats patients who went through a weight loss transformation. According to Dr. Zannis, “Loose skin can gather at the stomach, under arms, breasts, buttocks, inner thighs, face and neck. The more significant the weight-loss is, say 50 pounds and above, the more likely a plastic surgeon is sought out to explore body lifts that specifically address loose skin after weight-loss.”
- You have more energy, are excited about life and can do more!
As you change your diet, add daily exercise to your new lifestyle and see the weight melt off, you gain energy! You don’t feel the need to hit the snooze button anymore. You may wake up energized for that 7am powerwalk or you may be inspired by that beautiful new dress you get to wear to work, another dress size dropped. Yay!
“Use newfound energy to your advantage, encourages Dr. Hafeez, your brain is forming new neuropathways as your perception about your body starts to change. That flight of stairs that was once an obstacle is much easier. Simple things like putting on shoes, picking up toys and pushing a vacuum are done with ease. As you take notice of what your body can do, you gain more confidence and want to do more. This energizes you both physically and mentally,” she adds.
- Shopping gets interesting.
It is common to get overwhelmed with options now that you can shop the way you always dreamed of. Perhaps your new strong, shapely legs have inspired you to wear dresses again for the first time in years. Or after always covering your arms, you may opt for sleeveless tops. Either way, trying new looks outside of your comfort zone can be daunting. Dr. Hafeez advises to, shop on your own or with someone you really trust. “It is important that shopping is made to be fun by approaching it as a style experiment. Don’t expect everything to look perfect just because you are a much smaller size. Some things will work, others won’t. Look for clothes that feel good. When you smile in the mirror that’s a sign you’re on track.”
- You make yourself, your health and well being top priority and start to inspire others.
When you lose a noticeable amount of weight other people want to know how you did it and how you are keeping the weight off. Your immediate family may also adapt to your dietary changes and experience weight loss by association. When your kids see you wake up every morning to exercise they see that anything worth having requires commitment. Your significant other may be inspired to also lose weight. “When you take care of yourself and are in a positive mindset, it has a positive impact on everyone you interact with. When the mind and body are aligned you love the way you look and feel, you’re happy and someone others can look up to.”
For information on Dr. Sanam Hafeez visit: http://comprehendthemind.com/about-us/
For information on Dr. John Zannis visit: http://www.zannisplasticsurgery.com/plastic-surgeon-new-bern-nc/
I was luck enough to attend an event put on by Clif Bar for National Organic Week. It was a launch dinner at Café Belong restaurant, located at Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto.
There was a great group of people with diverse backgrounds who attended. I had the chance to meet some wonderful people in the community. Renowned Chef and Food Network star, Brad Long designed a special local and organic menu. COTA provided guests with the latest news about their important work and the organic industry in Canada, including a preview of new national data about Canadian organic consumers. Clif Bar’s Matthew Dillon was n hand to share Clif Bar’s organic journey and the important role of organic farming in helping create a healthier, more just and sustainable food system.
About Matthew Dillon: www.clifbar.com/article/matthew-dillon
About Krumm Country Farms: www.clifbar.com/article/brian-krumm-FS2014(video)
More about organics at Clif Bar: www.clifbar.com/hubs/organic-sustainable
Even though I had to leave a bit early I still walked away with lots of information on Organics in Canada and how Clif Bar works with Organics. I also got a cool swag back with seeds and a shovel to plant my own organics. And a few yummy clif bars to enjoy! Thanks for having me Clif and I can't wait to attend more of your events!
Banish Boring in the Morning with Breakfast Recipes to Celebrate Organic Week
September 17 to 25, 2016, marks this year’s National Organic Week, the largest annual celebration of organic food, farming and products across the country. With hundreds of events and thousands of retail promotions taking place across Canada, Organic Week showcases the benefits of organic agriculture and its positive impact on the environment, animal welfare, as well as our well-being. Supported by regional partners and coordinated by the Canada Organic Trade Association(COTA), Canadian Organic Growers (COG), and the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), Organic Week shines a spotlight on why Canadians should choose to think before they eat.
“With the number of organic products on the market continuously growing, it’s easier than ever to go organic,” says Rochelle Eisen, president of COG. Many of Canada’s top organic farms, wineries, retailers and restaurants take part in Organic Week, offering Canadians the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand the bounty of Canada’s organic harvest. “Whether it’s hosting a potluck picnic for friends or sampling organic wine and beer, we encourage Canadians to help spread the word about how choosing organic means supporting sustainability and promoting animal welfare.”
Some new and exciting trends have been revealed thanks to the Canada Organic Trade Association’s second national consumer survey to be released later this year. The study aimed to understand consumers’ awareness of the benefits of organic agriculture, uncover consumers’ organic purchasing habits and gauge the level of trust Canadians have in organic and non-organic claims.
Key findings from the study show:
The face of organic is changing as more “millennials” are shifting towards organic in Canada; one in five (twenty-one per cent) shoppers from 18 to 34 years say they are buying more organic, while shoppers in older age groups are holding steady.
Eighty-six percent of Canadians expect to increase or maintain their organic spending in the near future.
The number of consumers that are regularly buying organic in the country is around 20 million (fifty-six per cent of Canadians).
“Governments are following in the footsteps of consumer trends,” says Tia Loftsgard, Executive Director of COTA. “Federal investment in the organic sector and provincial initiatives supporting farmers to transition to organic show how consumer-led efforts can truly make a difference. We’re proud to be involved in the continued growth of the organic movement alongside its passionate ambassadors this September.”
More and more Canadians are looking to reduce their exposure to synthetic chemicals and genetically engineered (GMO) ingredients with the aim of taking better care of themselves, their families, and the environment. Coast-to-coast Organic Week events range in scale, from smaller organic farm tours to community-wide organic festivals. Hundreds of health food stores, farmer’s markets and grocery chains will be showcasing organic products and educating consumers.
“With events taking place in communities all over the country, there are so many ways Canadians can support and get involved in the Organic Week celebration,” says CHFA president, Helen Long. “Last year, we saw everything from pickling workshops and farm tours to recipe contests and organic food and drink tastings. These happenings represent the creative ways Canadians are choosing to go organic and how they are making a conscious decision to protect their bodies and the environment, all while supporting local farmers.”
To find out more about Organic Week events or promotions being offered near you, please visit organicweek.ca.
Organic Week was made possible this year by champion sponsors UNFI Canada, Sobeys Inc., Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods, Nature’s Path Foods, Clif Bar & Company, alive Publishing Group Inc, PC Organics, Mike and Mike’s Organics, Cal-Organics Farms, Yorkshire Valley Farm, Green Organic Vegetables, Field Farm Marketing Ltd., DOM International Limited, Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, Earthbound Farm Organic, Wholesome!, True Organic Juice, DeeBee’s SpecialTea Foods, Mumm’s Sprouting Seeds, Ecocert Canada, Organic Meadow, Pacific Organic Seafood Association, Organic Garage, The Homemade Organics Company, Fromagerie L’Ancêtre, Pro-Cert Organic, Patience Fruit & Co, The Big Carrot, Hippie Foods, Ethical Bean Coffee, Quality Assurance International, and Fairtrade Canada.
Savoury Egg Pancakes
These easy and satisfying savoury pancakes are quick to reheat in the toaster and are packed with protein, fibre and omega-3 fatty acids. Try it in a wrap or with a salad for a light lunch.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Yields: 12 pancakes
2 cups (500 mL) grated zucchini (about 2 small)
1 cup (250 mL) grated sweet potato (about 1 small)
3/4 cup (180 mL) whole wheat flour
6 eggs
1/2 cup (125 mL) ground flax seeds
1/2 cup (125 mL) rehydrated and finely chopped sundried tomatoes*
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tsp. (5 mL) sea salt
1/4 tsp. (1 mL) pepper
Place all ingredients in a large bowl and stir to combine. Dollop 1/4 cup (60 mL) portions of mix onto a large parchment lined baking sheet and spread into 3-inch circles spaced 1-inch apart. Bake at 375F for 15 minutes or until bottoms are light golden brown. Let cool completely and layer with wax paper in between each pancake; freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Reheat pancakes in a toaster or microwave. Serve with fresh salsa, hot sauce, hummus or avocado slices.
Tip: You can also cook these savoury delights in a cast iron skillet. Just reduce the cooking time by five minutes and make sure you add a little oil to the skillet before pouring in the pancake mixture.
How to rehydrate sundried tomatoes*: Combine the 1/2 cup (125 mL) sundried tomatoes with 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) water. Soak for one to eight hours.
Nutritional analysis per pancake:
PROTEIN: 6 grams
FAT: 5 grams
CARBOHYDRATE: 12 grams
CALORIES: 112
FIBRE: 3 grams
SODIUM: 270 mg
Apple Pie Buckwheat Oats
A hearty, comforting and guilt free breakfast with lots of classic fall apple dessert flavour.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 8 hrs or overnight
Yields: 4 servings
2 cups (500 mL) coconut milk (in tetra pack)
1 cup (250 mL) diced apple
1 cup (250 mL) applesauce
1 cup (250 mL) uncooked buckwheat groats
1/2 cup (125 mL) rolled oats
2 Tbsp. (30 mL) maple syrup
2 Tbsp. (30 mL) lemon juice
1-1/2 tsp. (7 mL) cinnamon
1 tsp. (5 mL) vanilla extract
Garnish optional: apple chips, apple slices, vanilla yogurt, coconut whipped cream, cinnamon.
Place all ingredients in a large 1 litre mason or canning jar; shake to combine and refrigerate overnight. Serve topped with your choice of garnish.
Nutritional analysis per serving:
PROTEIN: 8 grams
FAT: 4 grams
CARBOHYDRATE: 61 grams
CALORIES: 308
FIBRE: 4 grams
SODIUM: 0 mg
| The movement of people taking better care of themselves is on the rise. Nutritional supplements are growing – there are yoga studios on every corner, and hipster juice bars on every other corner – all in the name of achieving incredible health. A big component of that is getting more fruits and veggies. It’s true that every little bit counts, but have you ever stopped to wonder how much goodness is in that “all-in-one” tub or $8 juice? Not as much as you’d think. The need for proven, clean nutrition is more important than ever, and the solution is greens+.
Boost your nutritional intake, energy and vitality with Canada’s first and only research-proven superfood formula that offers a greater quantity and richer variety than everyday, healthy foods – with up to 350% more concentrated phytonutrient content vs. competing green superfoods! Backed by nine research studies, Genuine Health is the leader in green food nourishment and just one serving of greens+ daily provides a synergistic blend of over 23 plant-based essential nutrients in a formula that is high alkaline-forming and rich in antioxidants.
To the nutrition geeks at heart, the people at Genuine Health knew the value of fruits and veggies when they launched greens+ almost 25 years ago. Standing the test of time as Canada’s favourite superfood supplement, greens+ provides consumers with results that they feel. The concentrated formula of phyto (plant) nutrients contributes to a healthy gut; supports liver function and a healthy brain; boosts mood and energy; balances hormones, and builds your immune system among many other amazing benefits! How do the phytonutrients in greens+ stack up against popular juice and smoothie foods, and other green food supplements? Genuine Health put greens+ under the microscope alongside some nutritionally potent foods to compare phytonutrient levels, gram for gram:
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An average of 350% more concentrated fruits and veggies vs other green food and all-in-one supplements, greens+ packs a plant nutrient-rich boost! Notably, greens+ containing products have up to 6 times more total polyphenols than nutritional gold standards, such as kale and blueberries. Combined with the proven pH balancing and energy boosting properties of greens+, this one-of-a-kind phytonutrient formula protects and balances your body, and most importantly, makes you feel amazing!
If you make one change for amazing health - make it one daily scoop of greens+!
greens+ ORIGINAL:
Get your greens…PLUS! A blend of 23 colourful and nourishing plant ingredients, providing the most abundant source of health-promoting plant nutrients available in a single serving - greens+ is the ONLY superfood proven to give you the highest concentration of fruits and veggies, balance your pH, increase your energy and more!
Key Benefits:
•Up to 350% MORE phytonutrient concentration per serving vs. competitive green food supplements!
•Made with Non-GMO ingredients, greens+ is the only superfood formula in Canada that’s proven by research to establish a balanced, total body system with healthy pH
•Increases vitality, improves mood and provides more energy for your day
•Provides antioxidant and polyphenol protection comparable to a diet super-rich in fresh fruits and veggies
greens+ ORIGINAL is available in three flavours: original, mixed berry, and tangerine, and can be found at your local health food, grocery and drug retailers. Visit www.genuinehealth.com to find a store near you.
VEGAN greens+ O:
VEGAN greens+ O was formulated especially for those who are both passionate and sensitive about the foods they eat. Genuine Health kept the foundation of the award-winning, research-proven and phytonutrient-rich greens+ formula, and removed the allergens, replacing them with equally effective, innovative ingredients - such as organic spirulina, broccoli sprouts, chia seeds, and sunflower lecithin - to ensure that consumers will continue to feel the difference… and experience the BEST tasting greens+ yet!
Key Benefits:
•Rich in phytonutrients
•Provides antioxidant protection
•Improves cardiovascular health
•Improves mood & cognitive Function
•Boosts energy & vitality
•Improves digestive health
•High pH Acid/Alkaline
•Gluten-free, soy-free, non-GMO and vegan
VEGAN greens+ O is available in three flavours: Acai Mango, Unflavoured and Vanilla, and can be found at your local health food, grocery and drug retailers. Visit www.genuinehealth.com to find a store near you.
About Genuine Heath
Genuine Health makes natural supplements that people are passionate about and because they work. Founder and CEO Stewart Brown’s love for natural health started early in life when he suffered with health issues and found solutions through holistic modalities and supplements. After opening his own chain of natural supplement stores and witnessing first-hand how some products work and some didn’t for his customers, Stewart met Sam Graci, the formulator of the now infamous greens+ and experienced firsthand the effects of taking a product that makes a difference to your health. Today, Genuine Health has over 170 products sold in both Canada and the US, and is focused on empowering people to live life with passion by embracing natural health through products that improve their lives – every day! |
Thanksgiving may be a holiday that we share with our neighbours to the south, but the way we celebrate it is all our own. We don’t give thanks in November (October’s where it’s at!) and it’s not all about football, turkey pardoning and parades with Canadians. We simply like good friends, good family, and good food.
So if you are looking for a new pumpkin pie recipe. I suggest to give this Carnation Classic Pumpkin Pie a try! You can substitute any of the ingredients you want if you want to give it a healthy twist! For more information about Carnation or recipes visit their website: http://www.carnationmilk.ca
Carnation Classic Pumpkin Pie
Makes: 8 servings
Ingredients:
• 1 can (354 mL) Carnation regular or 2% evaporated milk
• 1 pastry for 10-inch (25 cm) single-crust pie
• 1 3/4 cups (425 mL) pumpkin pureé
• 1 cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) Robin Hood original all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp (2mL) ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp (2mL) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 (1 mL) ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). On floured surface, roll out pastry to 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness.
2. Fit pastry into 10-inch (25 cm) pie plate; press into bottom and up sides of plate. Trim overhang and flute edges.
3. Whisk together pumpkin purée, sugar, eggs, flour, spices, and salt in large bowl until smooth and well combined; gradually whisk in evaporated milk. Fill pie shell with evaporated milk mixture. Bake in bottom third of oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until set. Let cool completely on rack.
Tip: Pies can be covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen up to 1 month.
Are you like me and crave sugary treats? I grew up with my grand parents. My great grand parents lived next door. I definitely was spoiled. You can curb those cravings.
Knowing why and when your cravings occur can help you prepare to deal with them. Whether you are changing your environment to experience them less often or are developing ways to respond differently, it is possible to overcome most junk food desires. Here are a few ways to set yourself up for success:
1. Get enough sleep Getting enough sleep is very important. When you are tired or bored you tend to reach for a snack to keep you entertained or to satisfy you. If you are well rested you are more likely to make a better decision.
2. Plan Your Meals and Prep them. Prepping your meals in advance can keep you from reaching for bad foods. Having meals every 2-3 hours also ensures you never go too long without eating and never leaves you in a pinch grabbing something quickly from a store.
3. Don't Keep Junk In The House. First identify the foods you are reaching for when you are snacking. Then make sure to rid your house of them. You don't need to keep them around if you can't control yourself. You are more likely to reach for a healthier alternative if they aren't in your house.
4. Drink Water. Often times we confuse hunger with dehydration. Next time you feel snacky, grab some water and chug it down. This may fill you up and you may have just been thirsty and not hungry for a snack.
5. Stay Accountable. Put a dollar into a jar every time you crave something but don't give into the craving. At the end of the week, month etc cash it in and do something nice for yourself like a movie or some shopping!
You got this! Be strong young grasshopper! Don't give in to the cravings.
PMS DIET: 8 DO’S AND DONT’S
www.drcalapai.net
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is such a regular occurrence for many women that they consider it a normal part of getting their period. The Mayo Clinic estimates about 75 percent of women get at least some form of PMS. Although the causes of PMS aren't well understood, “fluctuating levels of hormones and brain chemicals are thought to play a role. What a woman eats and drinks can also have an effect, “ says Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. a Manhattan Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. He shares with us 10 do’s and don’ts for getting through PMS as pain free as possible.
1)Do get more calcium
Some studies have shown that calcium levels are lower in women with PMS, and that those with the highest intake of calcium reported the mildest PMS symptoms. Dr. Calapai suggests sourcing your calcium from foods such as low-fat milk and dairy, calcium-fortified breakfast cereals and orange juice, and leafy greens.
2) Don't consume excessive salt
Salt increases water retention, so if you suffer from premenstrual bloating, do limit the amount of sodium you consume in the run up to your period. Eliminate the salt shaker, and cut back on the canned foods, processed foods and condiments, all of which are overflowing with sodium.
3) Do drink more water
“Although this sounds counter-intuitive,” says Dr. Calapai, “Water can actually alleviate PMS-related fluid retention. Drink plenty of H2O -- aim for 8 to 10 glasses a day; more when you exercise -- to flush toxins out of your system and reduce premenstrual bloating.”
4) Do Eat Dark Chocolate
Craving the sugary confections like chocolate and cupcakes is totally normal. Try and reach for dark chocolate when you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. A bonus is, it will boost your mood.
5) Don’t Consume Coffee
While you may need that daily cup (or two) to be functional, studies show that caffeine increases levels of anxiety. Dr. Calapai explains that, “Your blood vessels contract when caffeine is present in your body, which worsens menstrual cramps. Also, for those with loose stool while on their periods, adding caffeine to your diet will make it difficult for your body to retain water and worsen diarrhea.”
6) Do Eat Greens
Losing a lot of blood can cause iron deficiency, which can cause lightheadedness or nausea. To counteract this problem, Dr. Calapai recommends stocking up on darker greens, like spinach, kale and broccoli to get your iron levels back up, but avoid eating them raw. For spinach, sautée with minced garlic and olive oil for a warm, flavorful bundle of nutrients!
7) Don’t Drink Alcohol
It will only worsen feelings of depression and moodiness. One study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology also found that regular alcohol consumption increased length of and severity of cramps in women who experience cramps during PMS.
8) Do Eat Bananas
Sleep disturbances right before your period are the norm for many women. Plus, experts at John Hopkins University in Baltimore found that too little sleep made women more susceptible to pain (meaning those cramps will feel even worse). So make sure to get your z's by eating bananas, which contain melatonin—a sleep-aid hormone that's secreted at night and helps regulate our body's natural rhythms.
Dr. Christopher Calapai D.O.
Anti-Aging Physician and "The Stem Cell Guru"
www.drcal.net
Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed as the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S.
His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's.
Dr. Calapai started his practice in New York City in 1986 and for over 25 years he has hosted nationally syndicated radio shows, including his two weekly call-in shows on WABC 770-AM, where he offers health and medical advice. He has a show on Saturday morning 8-9am and Sunday evening from 6-7pm. He has consulted with numerous high-profile individuals including Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Fox series Gotham's, Donal Logue and worked as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers hockey team as well as various modeling agencies.
Dr. Calapai received his medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and he consults in Manhattan with practices on Long Island, in East Meadow and Plainview. He has appeared on News12 and in the pages of 25A Magazine and Social Life Magazine.
Foolproof Ways To Boost Your Motivation To Get Physically Fit
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It could be the case that you have access to a safe place to run or cycle or can even afford a gym membership. You also have the time to work out, even if it is on the evenings or on weekends. You even have a drawer of the right clothes and sneakers. But what you lack is motivation.
So, how can you boost your motivation levels, in order to get physically fit? Let’s take a look at a handful of foolproof ways….
Great Music
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Hearing is one of our most valuable senses, and it allows us to hear and enjoy a whole universe of wonderful music. Well, science has proven time and time again that music with certain qualities can be great at helping with motivation. After all, there has to be a reason why so many gyms pump out loud dance music in their fitness halls! And spin classes have the music on so loud that the leader needs a microphone or loudhailer to be heard! Usain Bolt was just one pro-athlete seen at the Rio Olympics warming up with his headphones in! Follow in his footsteps by using music to motivate you! Make a playlist the length of your workout, and aim to get right through to the end of the last track. If you lift weights, for example, music also acts a great distraction to help you push through the pain. feelingfit.info lists some great workout songs to add to your playlist!
Consider Supplements
If you lack motivation for fitness within yourself, it could well be linked to your testosterone levels. Many parallels have been drawn between motivation and testosterone by sports scientists and researchers. If you think that boosting your levels of testosterone will help you- as it likely will- be sure you do ample research first. If you want to supplement your levels, it is so crucial that you are well-informed. Being so means that you can give yourself this boost safely. Take a look at information sites HealthandFitnessVitality.com like and take in the insights there.
Water Intake
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It’s as simple as this; if you are dehydrated, you simply can’t feel as energized and motivated as you could if you were properly hydrated. If, an hour before the end of work you simply can’t be bothered to go to the gym afterward? Down a couple of pints of water! You’re sure to feel much better afterward. That’s because water is directly linked to things like how awake and alert we feel. familydoctor.org explains more about the importance of good hydration.
Breath!!
This might sound like the most obvious point in the world. But actually, it is incredibly common for people to hold their breath when exercising, or pushing themselves further. However, if you are not breathing properly, you won’t maintain the energy you need to keep going. As a result, you simply won’t be motivated to do as many reps, or miles, or strokes. Remembering to breathe- and to breath correctly- isn’t something you can learn in a second. It takes time to build up the skill, and then to do it naturally, resisting the urge to hold your breath. Try saying it to yourself in your head for your exercise routines for the next few weeks. After a while, you’ll stop holding your breath and breath properly all the way through your routine. greatist.com is a guide to breathing correctly for all types of exercise.
I had the chance to sit down with nutritionist Jessica Tong. The registered dietitian that works with Zespri Kiwifruit. At the time I was very inspired by the Olympics so a lot of my questions have to do with training nutrition. I hope you all can take away a bit of new knowledge about how great Kiwifruit is from the questions that I asked her.
- If I am planning a tough training day when is the best time to have my fruit like a kiwi?
The best time to have kiwifruit is prior to a tough workout. Packed with potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, antioxidants, and natural sugars, Zespri SunGolds are a nutrient-dense snack of choice to fuel your body, optimize immune function, and ensure proper muscle function during your workout.
- What major nutrients are in a kiwi that will contribute to my health?
Zespri SunGold kiwifruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. They contain 2 times more vitamin C than oranges, which is important for immune function and the growth and repair of bones and tissues. Zespri SunGolds are also a good source of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant. Potassium is crucial for heart function and plays a key role in muscle contraction. One serving of Zespri SunGolds provides as much potassium as a medium banana. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium are all essential micronutrients that are especially important when you are training.
- What is a good go-to recipe for kiwis?
Zespri SunGold kiwifruits can be blended into shakes for a juicy, tropical taste. Or, they can be cut up into smoothie bowls or yogurt. This Sunrise Smoothie Bowl is an excellent recipe rich in fibre, heart-healthy fats, and protein that can be enjoyed for breakfast, snack, or dessert! http://www.zesprikiwi.com/kiwifruit-recipes/breakfast-recipes/sunrise-smoothie-bowl/
- Are kiwis high in sugar? What is the glycemic rating?
Kiwifruits are relatively low in sugar, especially Zespri SunGold Kiwifruits. They are low on the glycemic index (Zespri Green: 39, Zespri SunGold 38) and are appropriate for people with diabetes or impaired blood sugar control.
- How many kiwis are one serving size?
One serving of Zespri SunGold is 162 g or 2 kiwifruits.
- How much more vitamin C does a Kiwi have than an orange?
Based on 100 g, Zespri SunGolds contain 2 times more vitamin C than oranges.
- What is the PH balance of a kiwi and how can it help my athletic performance?
Acid-base balance, or pH balance, affects the body’s metabolic process. It is important that blood pH stays within the range of 7.35 and 7.45, which is on the basic/alkaline side. When blood pH levels become too acidic, an environment is created for bacteria or viruses to enter and to thrive, leading to illness, aches, and lack of energy. This can worsen muscle soreness, create a feeling of fatigue, and compromise athletic performance.
Depending on its ripeness, the pH value of a kiwifruit varies between 3.1 and 3.96, classifying it as a “high-acid” food. However, while kiwis are naturally acidic, they become alkaline after digestion, promoting alkaline balance. Also, kiwifruits are not acid-forming. When acid-forming food is consumed, such as artificial sweeteners, meat, and alcohol, all of which are common in the North American diet, it produces toxins that impact the pH balance of the body and makes the blood more acidic.
- We know that fibre is important and especially with muscle. How much fibre does a kiwi have and how does it help my fitness goals?
1 serving (2 kiwifruits) contain 4 g of fibre. Fibre is slow to digest so it keeps you fuller for longer. This is crucial if you are trying to control calories. Fibre also prevents a blood sugar spike as it causes glucose (sugar) to enter your bloodstream in a slow, controlled manner. This helps to stabilize energy levels and prevent a “sugar crash”. Fibre is also important to promote digestive health and regularity.
- Is there anything else you would like to share? Where can we find more information about you?
Kiwifruit is considered a superfood/superfruit. It is a versatile fruit that is nutritionally superior to apples, oranges, and bananas.
Please feel free to reach Jessica via www.jessicatongrd.com and to learn more about Zespri check out there website HERE.
Texas A&M research shows standing desks lead to improved BMI
(COLLEGE STATION, Texas) — Texas A&M researchers have shown, for the first time, evidence that standing desks in classrooms can slow the increase in elementary school children’s body mass index (BMI)—a key indicator of obesity—by an average of 5.24 percentile points. The research was published today in the American Journal of Public Health.
“Research around the world has shown that standing desks are positive for the teachers in terms of classroom management and student engagement, as well as positive for the children for their health, cognitive functioning and academic achievement,” said Mark Benden, PhD, CPE, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at the Texas A&M School of Public Health and an author of the study. “It’s literally a win-win, and now we have hard data that shows it is beneficial for weight control.”
Twenty-four classrooms at three elementary schools (eight in each of the three schools) in College Station, Texas, participated in the study. At each school, four classrooms were outfitted with stand-biased desks (which allow students to sit on a stool or stand at will) and four classrooms in each school acted as a control and utilized standard classroom desks. The researchers followed the same students—193 in all—from the beginning of third grade to the end of fourth grade.
The researchers found that the students who had the stand-biased desks for both years averaged a three percent drop in BMI while those in traditional desks showed the two percent increase typically associated with getting older. However, even those who spent just one year in classrooms with stand-biased desks had lower mean BMIs than those students in traditional seated classrooms for their third and fourth grade years. In addition, there weren’t major differences between boys and girls, or between students of different races, suggesting that this intervention works across demographic groups.
“Classrooms with stand-biased desks are part of what we call an Activity Permissive Learning Environment (APLE), which means that teachers don’t tell children to ‘sit down,’ or ‘sit still’ during class,” Benden said. “Instead, these types of desks encourage the students to move instead of being forced to sit in poorly fitting, hard plastic chairs for six or seven hours of their day.”
Previous studies from Benden’s lab have shown that children who stand burn 15 percent more calories, on average, than those who sit in class, but this is the first study showing, over two years, that BMI decreases over time (versus controls) when using a stand-biased desk.
“It is challenging to just measure weight loss with children,” Benden said, “because children are supposed to be gaining weight as they get older and taller.”
At the beginning of this study, which was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), roughly 79 percent of the students were of normal weight category, 12 percent were overweight and nine percent were obese, according to height and weight measurements made by the researchers. These are better numbers than nationally, where 14.9 percent of children were overweight and 16.9 percent were obese in 2012. The fact that the students who started at a healthy weight benefited from stand-biased desks as much as they did might indicate that these desks help students who aren’t overweight maintain their BMI, while at the same time help those who start out overweight or obese get to a healthier weight.
These desks, designed by Benden and his team, are called stand-biased, not “standing” because they do include a tall stool the students can perch on if they so choose. They also include a footrest, a vital feature because it allows children to get their lower backs out of tension and reduce leg fatigue to stand more comfortably over time. These United States-patented desk designs are now licensed to Stand2Learn, which has commercialized the products through translational research focused on moving university studies to publicly available solutions.
“Sit less, move more,” Benden said. “That’s our message.”
