Vegetarian Means Vegan, Right?

Actually vegetarians tend to differ from what Vegans consider themselves to be. The exact reasons for why, evade me at the moment.

I eat plenty of vegetables but also enjoy eggs so I think this means I may be a vegetarian but I am not a vegan because eggs are not on their menu. I need to watch my calories and weight.

Veganism, if I may, seems to be more like a religion than just a healthy eating regime. I think the term is applied to not only eggs but even to wearing things that may have once been alive, like leather.

I have no feelings on this one way or another and think our life choices are just that, our life choices.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Side Step Nutrition Scams and Frauds; Eat Broccoli

By Isaac Robert Toussie

People have said that it is of course important to watch out for food scams, as fraud could exist on food labels. I, Isaac Toussie, pardon the thought, think that today, when so many people are concerned about issues like housing and work place discrimination, fashion, entertainment, real estate, mortgages, vacations and the like, issues like food quality and food awareness may become unnecessarily overshadowed. My (Isaac Toussie) opinion is that Broccoli is an excellent nutritional resource.

A cruciferous vegetable that originally came from southern Europe, in the regions by the Mediterranean Sea, broccoli can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was developed from wild broccoli that resembled collard greens. The name "broccoli" comes from the Latin word brachium, or branch. Broccoli is a very popular vegetable and it is a staple of healthy diets around the world, especially in the United States. It is often called a super-food because scientific research continues to discover nutritional benefit after nutritional benefit. First, broccoli contains one of the highest concentrations of health promoting sulfur compounds like sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, increasing the livers power to make enzymes that neutralize potentially toxic substances in the body. Broccoli is also rich in the powerful phytonutrient antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which are carotenoids concentrated in the lens of our eyes. Furthermore, broccoli provides Vitamins A and C along with folic acid for a healthy heart. Broccoli that is dark green contains more chlorophyll, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, while those with more purplish heads contain more flavanoids.

Being from the cruciferous family of vegetables places broccoli among the likes of cauliflower, kale, collard greens, cabbages, mustard greens, and Brussels Sprouts. Some of the more easily available varieties of broccoli include green broccoli, broccolini, broccoflower, broccoli raab, and broccoli sprouts.

I, Isaac Toussie, have my own favorite, which is green broccoli. Green broccoli, also known as sprouting broccoli but called Italian Green or Calabrese Broccoli (named after the famous geographical area of Italy where its reputed to have been first grown ) as well, is the most popular kind of broccoli and the most commonly seen in supermarkets today. Its light green stalks are topped with clusters of dark green, often purplish florets. The word broccolini is an Italian diminutive for baby broccoli, but its actually a cross between green broccoli and kale, and is the best kind of broccoli to serve raw. Broccoflower is a cross between broccoli and cauliflower, being more like cauliflower than broccoli. Broccoli raab is intensely flavorful, and has a pleasant though slightly bitter taste. It has more leaves and a longer stem than common green broccoli, and though its stem is tender and needs no peeling the bottom last inch or so should be discarded because it can be rather wood-like and tough. Otherwise, broccoli raab is just similar enough to regular broccoli to serve as a substitute, usually. Broccoli sprouts are actual sprouts from broccoli seeds, and are popular due to their high volume of healthy phytonutrients.

This article posted by Isaac Toussie, has been posted only for informational and human interest purposes and not for medical or advisory purposes. It does not necessarily constitute the opinions or conclusions of the provider, and the reader should not rely upon the validity of any of the information contained herein. The reader should consult a doctor, nutritionist, and similar medical professionals when seeking advice about food, nutrition, diet, and physiology.

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Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Pardon Me, But Did Someone Say Broccoli?

By Isaac Toussie

People are saying that food scams are important to watch out for and fraud could also exist on food labeling. I, Isaac Toussie, pardon the thought, think that in these times when so many people are concerned about matters like housing and work place discrimination, fashion, entertainment, real estate, mortgages, vacations and so forth, things like food quality and food awareness may become inadvertently sidestepped. I, Isaac Toussie, feel that Broccoli is a great nutritional resource.

Broccoli is a cruciferous plant that originally came from southern Europe, in the regions by the Mediterranean Sea. Broccoli goes all the way back to ancient Rome, where it was developed from wild broccoli that looked like collard greens, and its name comes from the Latin word brachium for branch. It is one of the most popular vegetables ever, and forms a regular part of most healthy diets around the world, especially in the United States. It is often called a super-food because scientific research continues to uncover one nutritional benefit after another. To begin with, broccoli contains one of the highest concentrations of health promoting sulfur compounds like sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, which increase the livers power to make enzymes that neutralize potentially toxic substances in our bodies. Broccoli is also rich in the powerful phytonutrient antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which are carotenoids found in the lens of our eyes in high concentrations. Furthermore, broccoli provides Vitamins A and C along with folic acid for a healthy heart. Broccoli that is dark green contains more chlorophyll, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, while more purplish heads contain more flavanoids.

Being from the cruciferous family of vegetables places broccoli among the likes of cauliflower, kale, collard greens, cabbages, mustard greens, and Brussels Sprouts. Some of the more easily available varieties of broccoli include green broccoli, broccolini, broccoflower, broccoli raab, and broccoli sprouts.

I, Isaac Toussie, have my own favorite, which is green broccoli. Green broccoli, also known as sprouting broccoli but called Italian Green or Calabrese Broccoli (named after the famous geographical area of Italy where its reputed to have been first grown ) as well, is the most popular kind of broccoli and the most commonly seen in supermarkets today. Its light green stalks are topped with clusters of dark green, often purplish florets. The word broccolini is an Italian diminutive for baby broccoli, but its actually a cross between green broccoli and kale, and is the best kind of broccoli to serve raw. Broccoflower is a cross between broccoli and cauliflower, being more like cauliflower than broccoli. Broccoli raab is intensely flavorful, and has a pleasant though slightly bitter taste. It has more leaves and a longer stem than common green broccoli, and though its stem is tender and needs no peeling the bottom last inch or so should be discarded because it can be rather wood-like and tough. Otherwise, broccoli raab is just similar enough to regular broccoli to serve as a substitute, usually. Broccoli sprouts are actual sprouts from broccoli seeds, and are popular due to their high volume of healthy phytonutrients.

This article has been posted by Isaac Toussie, just for informational and human interest purposes and not for any medical or advisory purposes. This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions or conclusions of the provider, and the reader should not rely upon the validity of the information contained herein. The reader should consult a doctor, nutritionist, and/or other medical professionals for advice about food, nutrition, diet, and physiology.

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Acai Berry Juice Is Good Stuff

By Pete Marks

Acai has gotten the attention of many athletes, trainers the news media and people who take supplements. Most people who try acai say they enjoy the flavor and its many benefits. To enjoy this beneficial berry you owe it to yourself to try acai berry juice.

Acai berry juice has often been promoted as a weight-loss product and often as a free trial to help lose weight. There are a lot of skeptics that believe acai has no weight loss benefits or will aid in losing weight.

It is very possible that acai may help with weight loss because of the fiber it contains not to mention the essential fatty acids that help the body function at a cellular level. Fiber is often used to help one feel fuller therefore requiring less food. Also many trainers and athletes use acai as part of their daily routine to help them feel more energized. Many would even go as far as to say it is a natural energy drink.

However, there are many things you should know about acai berry juice. It does contain lots of antioxidants which are known to help the body function at a cellular level. Aside from the antioxidants acai fruit contains it also contains many essential compounds, proteins and vitamins and trace elements that may be beneficial to your body.

Acai berry juice is relatively new but has been around for several years. The indigenous population of Brazil has used it for hundreds if not thousands of years and the locals enjoy it and drinks recipes and acai bowls. The natives not only enjoy its benefits but it has been used as a staple in their diet when available. Regardless is quite popular and considered a favorite by many people in Brazil and internationally.

You will find that not all acai berry products are created equally. There are many brands that have added sugars fillers. Fillers can also come as less expensive juices are even filtered water. You should always look for a berry juice is 100% organic pure and reasonably priced.

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Foods That Make You Young

By Dr. Mathias Wikenslop

A study done by scientist for the USDA to determine foods that contained the highest level of antioxidants found that the acai berry, artichokes, and beans had the highest levels recorded.

It was also confirmed that already well-known high antioxidant foods such as cranberries and blueberries--the researchers also found that Russet potatoes, pecans and even cinnamon are all excellent--although lesser-known, sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants are thought to fight cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.

"The bottom line is the same: eat more fruits and veggies," says Ronald L. Prior, Ph.D., a chemist and nutritionist with the USDA's Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center in Little Rock, Ark., and lead author of the study. "This study confirms that those foods are full of benefits, particularly those with higher levels of antioxidants. Nuts and spices are also good sources."

The new study is more complete more accurate than previous USDA antioxidant data and includes more foods than the previous study as high tech equipment was used by the researchers. They analyzed antioxidant levels in over 100 different foods, including fruits and vegetables--the new study also includes data on spices and nuts for the first time.

The foods were analyzed and measured for the concentration levels of antioxidants and the capacity per serving of the antioxidants. Research showed the top fruits were the acai berry, cranberries, blueberries, and black berries. The highest levels found in the nut category were walnuts, hazelnuts, and pecans--Russet potatoes, beans, and artichokes were found to have the highest level antioxidant concentration in the vegetable category.

ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and oregano were found to have high amounts of antioxidants. Spices are usually consumed in small amounts, even though many are high in antioxidants.

A study such as this proves very helpful for those looking to increase their antioxidant intake in their foods. However, caution must still be applied as foods that are high in antioxidants does not equate into health benefits--that process is determined by how the body absorbs and utilizes the antioxidant rich foods.

At the moment, there are no government guidelines for people to know many antioxidants to take and what kinds of antioxidants to consume in their daily meals--this is also the case with vitamins and minerals. A major barrier to such guidelines is a lack of consensus among nutrition researchers on uniform antioxidant measurements.

It is encouraged for the time being to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables that have a high concentration of amino acids like acai berry.

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How To Use Dairy Produce: Part 4 - Eggs (cont).

By Owen Jones

Preparation Of Foods: Dairy Produce.

Eggs: Part 2

Poaching: boil 1.5 inches (40mm) water in a frying pan; add a teaspoon of salt and 5ml of vinegar. Crack an egg into a cup, check and pour into boiling water. Reduce the heat. Gather the white around the unbroken yolk with a spoon and continue to simmer for another 3-4 mins. Lift out with a fish slice, drain and serve on hot buttered toast.

Scrambling: beat eggs well; add salt, pepper and a dash of milk. Melt enough butter to cover the bottom of the pan. Cook eggs slowly, stirring continuously. Cook in a basin floating in boiling water, if preferred. Serve when almost completely set, in about 5 mins.

Frying: Melt enough fat to easily cover the base of the pan. Tip egg in gently and gather white around the yolk. When the white has set, baste the yolk to taste and remove whole with a fish slice.

Baked: lightly grease an oven-proof dish and slide the eggs gently into it. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and butter to taste. Bake in a medium oven and serve in the same pan after the whites have set.

Omelettes: buy a pan and keep it solely for omelettes! The base should be smooth and clean. Allow two eggs per serving; whip lightly and add salt and pepper to taste. Heat enough butter to cover the bottom of a frying pan. When the butter is fairly hot, pour in the beaten eggs; as it sets, lift the handle and draw the set mixture up towards the handle, allowing the liquid egg to run down onto the hot pan. When all the liquid has set, tilt the pan forward and roll the omelette over. Serve immediately on a warm plate. The omelette can be filled with almost anything, before being rolled over.

Pouring Custard: lightly beat 2-3 eggs for every pint of milk. Heat the milk and gradually add to the eggs; add sugar and flavouring to suit your taste; cook in a double pan or jug and hot water until the required consistency has been reached. If it is not to be served up immediately, pour a thin layer of water onto it's surface to prevent a skin forming on top.

Baked Custard: proceed as above and then pour the custard into greased dish; sprinkle with nutmeg; and place dish in water to halfway up its sides. Bake at 350 F for 35-45 mins; test by inserting a knife - it should be clean on removal.

Steamed Custard: as baked custard, but cook in a steamer or pan of boiling water. The cooking time is about the same too.

Custard Tarts: pour pouring custard into unbaked pastry cases and bake in the oven for 40-50 mins. A little jam can be placed in the bottom of the case first, if desired.

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Monday, August 17, 2009

Gout Home Remedy: Eat Your Way to Good Health

By Rashel Dan

If you're looking for a gout home remedy, you may need not look further than your very own kitchen. You no longer need to jump from one pharmacy to another to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by gout. Commonly used gout home remedy are fruits, herbs, vegetables and roots. These have several benefits and are generally safe to use. They can also be used simultaneously and together with your medication.

The best remedy for gout can do the following:

- Relieve pain. - Reduce swelling - Eliminate stiffness - Detoxify and rid uric acid crystals from the body - Boost healthy blood circulation to aid in the flushing away of toxins - Speed healing of joint tissues to prevent uric acid build-up.

Fruits as gout home remedy:

Acid crystals are turned by potassium into a solution that is easily flushed out by the body. Fruits that are especially high in potassium are your best bet when it comes to curing gout. These high-potassium fruits include dried peaches, avocados, cantaloupe, oranges, bananas, tomatoes and dried prunes.

Other fruits have their benefits as gout home remedy too.

Lemon fuels the production of calcium carbonate, which balances acids in the body. Take the juice of lemon, dilute in water and drink as a gout home remedy.

Another gout remedy from the kitchen are berries and cherries. You can start by purchasing blueberries, cherries and strawberries from your local supermarket as fresh produce or concentrated juices. These fruits are rich with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and enzymes that neutralize uric acid in the body. Grapes are good, too, since they contain Alkalines that neutralize acidity.

Bananas and apples are also effective against gout. Maintaining a gout-preventing diet is as easy as eating 1 apple a day and 2-3 bananas per day for 4 days.

Herbs as gout home remedy:

People from ancient times have been using turmeric for medicinal treatment. Now it is known to be a potent antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant and blood strengthener. It is also considered to treat inflammation just like cortisone. Another herb, cayenne pepper, is known to have the same effect.

Also try artichoke, which contains cynarin. Cynarin is a compound known to prevent liver impairment and joint problems, thus benefiting those with gout.

Herbal teas such as buchu tea is also another effective gout home treatment. Other gout-fighting herbs include parsley and saffron, which can be a natural diuretic and acid neutralizer.

Some of the vegetables you can use against gout are spinach, potatoes and carrots since these are rich in potassium. As mentioned earlier, foods high in potassium detoxify the body from uric acid crystals. Also try eating more garlic as a gout home remedy-popularly known to be good for the heart, garlic has also been found to relieve gout symptoms. Finely chop fresh garlic and add to salads and other dishes as a natural gout home remedy.

Consulting your doctor is still an important step in curing gout.

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Designing Restaurant Menu Covers

By Charles Effron

If you have eaten at a restaurant, you might have noticed the restaurant menu cover design as you prepared to order. You might also have wondered to yourself, what makes it unique? How do the designers decide what to place inside the menu cover? What makes a menu cover beautiful for a customer? And are they really needed, when one has a restaurant?

If you are planning to start a small restaurant of your own, you must have already thought of your restaurant?s name and its logo. Thinking of a nice design for your menu cover should be complementary to your restaurant?s theme; are you creating a restaurant that is meant for the whole family to enjoy? Then make sure that your design is something that will appeal to people of all ages. Creating a separate kid?s menu is nice, as it will make children feel special, while at the same time creating a fun menu which lists only children?s food. Make sure it has bright colours and fun images for the delight of children.

If you know how to design, you can go ahead and make your own logo. If you want a logo that looks professionally done but do not know how to create one, then you should see a professional. Make sure that you tell him or her what kind of logo you want, so that the designer can make one that is right for your restaurant. This might cost some money, so be prepared for it.

Discussing your logo is very important, as you want the designer to create one that is as close as possible to the logo you have in mind. Explaining it in a detailed way will assure you of a logo that is close to what you are thinking of. If you have no idea what kind of logo you want, you can just give the designer some specifics about your restaurant, and leave him or her to create a nice and attractive logo for your restaurant.

All restaurant menu covers are different, except for the restaurant?s name and logo printed on them. That?s why make sure that you have a unique one and not just a copy of some other restaurant; you do not want to remind your customers of your competitors! Though it may cost you good money, designing a logo is a good investment that will draw customers in.

As for the design of your menu cover, the background colour is usually light, so that the text you will put in can be easily read. If you want the reverse, you can have a dark-coloured background with white or light-coloured text. The pictures you will place inside should be very sharp and detailed. The text size should not be too small as to not be readable, or too large as to occupy too much space in the cover.

You don?t want to confuse your customers with so much detail, so keep it short and direct to the point. A detailed description of the food you offer might sound nice, but most customers just actually want to order right away and eat. You should only put the right amount of text to help your customers order. Pictures of food you serve are nice additions, to give the customers an idea of what the food looks like, should they wish to try it.

A menu cover?s purpose is to help customers order the food they want. Make it unique and creative to reflect your restaurant?s specialties, but make it serve its purpose as well.

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Your Anti Gout Diet Tips

By Rashel Dan

If you want to prevent gout for life, start with your diet. This is not such an impossible task. Diet does play a large role in controlling and preventing gout, so depending on your daily intake, you can either increase or reduce your risk of gout.

Gout can be congenital (present at birth), occurring in family history or caused by obesity and other health factors. It is also more prevalent among men and those who are 40 to 60 years of age. If you can relate to any of these then you may want to focus on preventive measures.

An anti gout diet primarily consists of low-purine foods.

Purines are mostly found in foods which are high in protein and fat content. Vegetable oils, greasy burgers and fatty fish are all high in purines, so you should avoid fried foods and naturally fatty produce. Basically, high purine content is found in almost all kinds of food: pork, beef, chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna, oysters, scallops, creams, eggs, peas and beans. But there are ways to have a low-purine diet and are illustrated below:

Eat more fruits and vegetables as part of your anti gout diet.

Most fruits and vegetables are high in potassium. Potassium regulates electrolytes in the body and has the ability to get rid of uric acid crystals from the blood. Potassium-rich fruits are bananas, avocados, apricots and cantaloupe. High-potassium vegetables include spinach, potatoes, asparagus, beets and pumpkin.

Begin your anti gout diet now.

For breakfast, take low-fat protein foods. For example, drink low-fat milk and utilize only egg whites when cooking. Add onions and garlic for taste and use low-fat butter or margarine. High-protein foods that are low in fat have been found to be safe. Quench your thirst with vegetable juice or concentrated blackberry juice.

For lunch, prepare a cleansing lemon juice. Lemon juice is filled with vitamin C and antioxidants to help flush your body from unwanted uric acids. Couple the drink with a hearty salad and meal using tofu to replace red meat or chicken, finely chopped fresh garlic and extra virgin olive oil.

For dinner, grill or bake lean meat in a foil to retain moisture. Pair with potatoes and steamed spinach. After dinners make sure to have a bowl of cherries, berries or grapes on the side.

Other tips for your anti gout diet:

Be careful about your weight. Gout has been linked with health problems such as diabetes and obesity. Slowly restrict calories by introducing more of the gout preventing foods mentioned earlier. Avoid crash diets as these can actually trigger gout flare-ups. A good anti gout diet is always a balanced diet.

Drink lots of water - around 8-10 glasses per day. Water dilutes uric acid (a cause of gout) and rids them from the body. Cloudy urine means you have high acid content in your body and this is not a healthy sign. Clear urine suggests that you are properly hydrated and well on your way to good health.

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Hard Facts About What Cause Shingles

By Rashel Dan

Anyone from both genders can get shingles. In fact, it is estimated that about a million Americans get shingles each year. Understanding the facts about what cause shingles can get you on the right track to medication and treatment.

Fact #1: You don't get the shingles virus from a person who has it - the virus just gets reactivated.

Varicella zoster virus is the real cause behind shingles. It is also the same virus that causes chicken pox. When a person gets chicken pox, the virus can hide itself in the body and can be reactivated once the immune system becomes weak.

It is a fallacy to say that you have caught the shingles from someone suffering from it. You can only get chicken pox from someone who has the shingles virus and who has fresh blisters. Shingles therefore is like another belated but more severe bout of chicken pox.

Facts #2: Shingles may or may not occur.

Those who have had chicken pox do not automatically get shingles. It is estimated though that one in every ten individuals will develop shingles at a later age. It is still not clear whether what cause shingles can cause repeated episodes of shingles. It is believed though that shingles usually happens only once and that a repeat of it is possible but is not always the case.

Fact #3: The shingles virus is different from other herpes viruses.

Understanding cause of shingles will lead to the fact that it is caused by a type of herpes virus. This is why shingles is also known as herpes zoster. This does not mean though that what cause shingles can also cause genital herpes or mouth sores. The only reason why they all belong to the herpes group of viruses is because herpes viruses have the ability to infect an individual once and then become dormant for a span of time. They can reactivate only when a there is a trigger.

Fact #4: The crucial trigger for shingles is a weak immune system.

Eating chicken and other allergy-inducing food do not cause or worsen your shingles and chicken pox. The real trigger for what cause shingles is a weak immune system. This is the reason why understanding what cause shingles is important for the elderly.

People 50 or 60 and above have a higher risk of manifesting shingles because their immune systems are no longer in top shape. It is also possible though that people with immune deficiencies and those sick with cancer and other serious ailments are also at high risk of developing shingles. Anyone with a weak immune system and has had chicken pox before can also have shingles.

Fact #5: Stress is another trigger for shingles.

Stress does not cause shingles. Stress however can increase the chances of an individual who is prone to shingles to develop it. This is because stress can affect the immune system which can lead to a reactivation of the virus. Normal stress actually serves to activate the immune system. Too much stress however can increase the level of work of the immune system that it may stop responding to ailments like shingles.

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Sunday, August 16, 2009

Tips On Losing Body Fat

By Mark Wilson

The need to lose body fat is both a cosmetic and fitness requirement. Those who are overweight are more prone to medical problems like paralytic strokes and heart conditions.

Dieting is definitely a short cut to losing weight but not a lasting way to it. Body fat which is lost can come back in lesser time than in which it was lost. Body does become thinner by eating less, but the rate of metabolism will also decrease by it. What happens is that when you return to your earlier eating pattern, the body is not able to burn calories at the same pace, which results in weight gain. Dieting with the help of appetite suppressors also decreases the metabolism rate so that the weight that was lost returns quite fast.

The weight loss managed through dieting will neither be lasting nor safe. When the body does not get its necessary quota of nutrients, what it loses is liquids and muscle weight and not flab. The eating disorders so caused are harmful to the body, to the immune system and for the metabolism.

Since too many Americans have eating related problems as a result of overeating or insufficient eating, therapy for eating is available. This helps the people to manage their eating patterns so that they can keep their weight where they want it to be. Eating therapy is managed through four stages, which are, reviewing ones present style of eating, understanding the reasons that goad one into overeating, training oneself into controlling the yearning for food, and replacing unhealthy eating routines with healthier ones.

Most often it is not hunger that spurs a person to overeat, but only the need to divert attention from stress, or the need to overcome ennui. Though it is difficult to understand why they do so, people tend to eat more when they are unhappy, hassled, or anxious. Some may eat just because the aroma of food wafting across is irresistible, or because a food item looked very delicious in a commercial. To keep off such temptations, one can avoid going to richly laid out buffets, or refrain from serving oneself large portions of food while eating.

It is best to keep only healthy food at home if you want to avoid eating unhealthy food and makes losing body fat much easier. Make a shopping list at home with only healthy food on it. When you go to the grocery store make sure you only but the items on the list. Be sure to read the labels on the food before you bring it home so you can see how healthy it actually is.

Planning meals, and then sticking to the planned menu, will free you from the tendency to munch snacks in between. Even while you are preparing dinner, to avoid overeating, take care not to have small bites of things that you enjoy.

What you drink is also important in your diet plan. Sugar is a high calorie food item, so try to use low calorie sweeteners instead of sugar for your coffee. Natural tea, without sugar, will be a far better choice than coffee. Both matcha and green tea contain antioxidants which can increase body metabolism and expedite the process of eliminating the body fat.

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The Role of Supplements in Weight Loss

By Rodney Morris

The question as to what part weight loss supplements should play in the fight against the bulge - as the individual weight loss endeavor is called - is one that is being increasingly asked by many people, experts and laymen alike, in weight loss circles. The question is coming up more frequently nowadays in response to the intensive marketing efforts employed by the makers of the various weight loss supplements, with a core message which tends to leave people with the impression that one can actually lose weight through the use of these weight loss supplements only, that is, without the need for any effort on their part.

But the truth of the matter is that even as their name suggests, weight loss supplements are supposed to, and can only play, a supplementary role in the weight loss endeavor, which is naturally bound to lead to a question of what exactly then it is that weight loss supplements are supposed to 'supplement.'

And as it turns out, these weight loss supplements are supposed to supplement the user's efforts at losing weight, the very effort that most of us are so averse to being told that we will have to apply. The effort in question here, by the way, involves only following a proper diet and a proper exercise regime, with the weight loss supplements only playing a 'supplementary role' to these efforts.

The term proper diet, as used in the weight loss context refers to measures like avoiding foods that aggravate the problem of the bulge (as the weight problem is also called) - these being foods like those that are too high in fat and foods that are too high in sugar. The term proper diet, as used in the weight loss context also refers to measures like ensuring that you only eat when you are hungry, and even then ensuring that you stop eating immediately you sense that 'you are full.'

To lose weight in a healthy and sustainable way, one also has to ensure that they are giving their body adequate physical exercise, as our bodies were definitely not designed for the sedentary life styles we are leading today.

It is only when we are pursuing a proper diet and exercising adequately that we can consider seeking the 'helping hand' of a true natural supplement, to help us get where our effort is not reaching - with a quick reminder that that the use of such a weight loss supplement might not even be necessary in some cases; as the use of a proper diet regime and exercise is often enough in fighting the problem of the bulge.

Sharing your Talents in Alaska through Fairs and Festivals

By Jeremy Davis

Some make sumptuous pastries from recipes traditional to the family or even from new recipes made on their own. Some make intricate crafts through needlework, quilting, knitting and crochet. Some even make solid works of art out of wood. There, of course, are other hobbies taken up in the home aside from these. But talents are meant to be shared. And what other better way to share than by participating in venues where one can showcase these talents and even earn a little from them. Crafts and trade fairs and festivals are perfect for these things.

But how do you begin without any contact with people who are into attending such events? How would you know how far it is from where you live or how to participate? To find these out, you would need a source for fishing out data about the upcoming crafts and trade fairs and festivals in the country or even just in your own state.

You could network efficiently with other people participating and organizing these fairs to get wind of what's new but this is tedious work and sometimes, it isn't perfectly reliable. There are other ways of knowing, though.

Thankfully, there are databases of all crafts and trade fairs and festivals all over the country, in every state. And for Alaska, there is also a handy calendar for all these events.

By attending these events, you would be earning a little extra from doing what you enjoy doing best. Maybe you could even become known there in Alaska. There is always a sort of charm attached to everything homemade and handmade: Homemade preserves, homemade cookies, hand-knitted scarves or handcrafted lawn ornaments. They all carry a sort of warmth that attracts all sorts of people. Surely they would appreciate your skills being shared with them.

Make your life simpler by joining a service that keeps you updated on all these fairs and festivals happening in Alaska. You'd be able to share your talents easily and make some profit out of it, too.

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How To Buy Discount Restaurant Furniture Online

By Sam Bousack

Owning a business of your own is hard work and you may not always have the best deals when you need them. With a business like a restaurant you will have to find the best deals on your furniture if you hope to keep your expenses down. Finding discount restaurant furniture is pretty easy nowadays with the internet here to help.

When you looking for discount restaurant furniture you should take a look at some catering stores and factory outlets. These places almost always stock tons of chairs, tables, bar counters, and more specifically for restaurants. They will also offer you a discount for bulk orders and you can even get great deals on other items you might need like table lamps and other accessories.

Discount Restaurant Furniture On Sale All Year Long

Finding discount restaurant furniture could be as simple so looking on a classified website. Here you could come across someone wanting to sell their old restaurant stock or someone with a lot of the same item. These private sellers are always willing to bargain and will probably give you a really good deal if you purchase a lot of items.

Home decor stores are normally quite pricey for a restaurant and you will have to get so many items that it will not be worth it. That is unless you can find a store that has a special policy for businesses. There are some places that offer discounts for restaurants, hotels and guest houses and other businesses. The great thing about this is that you can get some really nice furniture for cheaper than at other places.

You do get other places where you can buy you discount restaurant furniture. These are not factory stores and they are not home deco stores, but they are stores that sell almost everything and anything, and the best parts if that you can buy in bulk here.

The other thing about these stores is that you will have to register with them to prove that you are a business, as they do not allow you to buy without a membership card, a lot of the time these registrations will cost you nothing.

Some of these places could offer you discounts based on the number of items you purchase. Otherwise you can save money on the materials used and you have total say over the sizing and features.

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Saturday, August 15, 2009

Weight Reduction - Losing 10 Pounds Now - Updated

By Scott Edwards

Modern lifestyles that pile on the stress, and shrink down the sleep might just be making us fat! Most of us would put our hand up and admit that we really need a thirty six hour day to fit everything we do into twenty four hours. We become anxious and overwrought sorting through all of our challenges. And so we turn to eating, to counteract the pressure.

But now it seems there's a scientific reason why we reach for the most fattening foods at times high stress and exhaustion. This is the thinking behind weight gain that is stress related: When the human body undergoes enduring tension, it exudes the stress-hormone cortisol.

This stimulates insulin release, as an attempt to stabilise our blood-sugar. This insulin release makes us feel hungry- particularly for carbohydrate and fat-rich foods. And so we give in to our cravings, and our energy picks up again.

Momentarily, we benefit from a lowering of stress, and we're satisfied. Although within the merest hint of time the high has gone. This is due to the insulin taking the glucose from the blood, and storing it in fatty parts of the body such as the waist and thighs.

Thus if weight loss is your objective, first try to create a more harmonious lifestyle! It's also thought that there could be a relationship between the amount of sleep we have each night and our weight. There was a time when the average person slept eight hours a night. This is no longer the case, with seven being optimistic for many today.

Respectively, the level of obesity in our society has risen. There could be a hormonal link to the two factors. Poor sleep patterns stimulate an increase in our appetite hormones. Since we have a longer 'day time', the body's logic is that it needs more food.

Evidently our longing for food rises as we become more tired, and again we veer towards carbohydrates and fatty food. Having eight hours of quality sleep may be just what's needed to retrain our hunger hormones.

And so to our conclusion. If we aim to reduce the tension in our lives, we might just find it easier to reduce our weight as well. Try saying 'No' sometimes to other people's requests. And when the chores of the day come to a close, what better than to treat ourselves to a long relaxing bath before heading off to the land of nod...

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Home Remedies For Dry Skin

By Linda Robison

Home remedies for dry skin have been around forever and some are pretty effective. Here Ill list a few easy to use and safe dry skin remedies. While a treatment for dry skin is not necessarily a cure for dry skin, many people found relief from extremely dry skin conditions using one or all of the home remedies outlined on this page.

Home Remedies For Dry Skin

Of all the home remedies for dry skin that are effective, the most important one is to stop using soap. In fact, this tip is for everyone, regarless if they have normal skin, oily skin, or dry skin because most soaps are not pH balanced. All skin cleansers should be pH balanced. This means it should have a pH of around 7 which is neutral. If your skin care cleansers dont list the pH balance, dont buy it.

Normal healthy skin should be in the pH range of 4.2 to 6.5 pH.....this is sort of in the middle of not being too acidic or too alkaline. And your facial cleanser cream should also be within this range. At this level, the acid mantle (the skin surface) is in good condition and is able to protect the skin from damaging elements of the environment like wind, sun, dehydraton, or bacteria.

One of the best things you can do to cure dry skin is to massage emu oil into the skin. Emu oil has been around for thousands of year and has been used by the Aborigines. They had to brave the harsh sun of Australia and knew that not only can emu oil moisturize the skin; it has been known to heal and protect it. You should apply the Emu Oil each time you wash your skin and every night before you go to bed. Its best to apply the oil while the skin is still damp, not wet, and just slightly damp like right after drying it with a towel.

Dry Facial Skin Mask

Once or twice a week or so give yourself a great hydrating facial for dry skin. This treatment for dry skin will also help exfoliate and clean pores " so consider using it before going out for big night. Your skin will look fabulous! Here is what youll need for the Dry Skin Mask:

- 2 egg yolks - 1 teaspoon of honey

First beat the egg yolks well, then add the honey and mix again. Apply this mask to your whole face, neck, and even backs of your hands. Leave on for 30 minutes and rinse well. Then blot dry and apply a good high quality, therapeutic moisturizer.

Dry Skin Treatments and Diet

A poor diet is quickly reflected on your skin and many people have found that changing their diet can really help cure dry skin. Consider getting more essential fats into your diet. These types of fats will not only help with dry skin, but for many people helps keep their weight in balance. Studies show that diet plays a crucial role in a variety of skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis. So try to concentrate on eating more olive oil, flax seed oil, or avocados. You dont have to eat a ton, a little goes a long way in improving the condition of your skin. Fish oils is also important not only for skin but for reduce weight, cholesterol, arthritic conditions and even improve mood for those suffering from depression. If you dont like fish oil, consider taking a good quality fish oil supplement.

Home Remedies for Dry Skin - Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Sometimes even the best home remedies for dry skin need a little help with a therapeutic moisturizer for dry skin. It is important that this therapeutic treatment for dry skin be100% noncomodegenic, so it wont clog pores and protect against sun damage. It should also contain natural soothing botanicals so as not to irritate sensitive dry skin. After many months of reviewing clinical research papers looking for the best dry skin lotion, we have found a excellent therapeutic moisturizer that is clinically tested and guaranteed to meet pharmaceutical standards.

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Delicious Comfort Food - Meat Lasagna

By Mike Sasaki

I absolutely love comfort food. Comfort food makes you feel awesome, but why? I think it is because it reminds you of being a kid and eating great and delicious meals with your family after an afternoon of playing with your friends.

What are your favorite comfort foods? Here is a list of the Top 25 Comfort Foods: Apple Pie, Baked Beans, Banana Pudding, Beef Stew, Brisket Pot Roast, Chicken & Dumplings, Chicken Pot Pie, Chicken Soup, Chili, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Corn on the Cob, Fried Chicken, Gelatin, Green Bean Casserole, Hot Dogs, Ice Cream, Macaroni & Cheese, Mashed Potatoes, Meatloaf, Potato Salad, Pumpkin Pie, Shepherd's Pie, Spaghetti, Tomato Soup, and Tuna Casserole.

Now, this list contains a lot of foods that I'd never eat, but it is a good list of comfort foods. The one comfort food that seems to be missing is: Meat Lasagna. I don't know anybody that dislikes a good meat lasagna. The ingredients are so delicious individually and when combined in a meat lasagna, it's the ultimate comfort food.

Served with a slice of garlic bread, you'll be full and happy in no time. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey and you can add more cheese or less depending on what you prefer. You can also add red pepper flakes to give your meat lasagna a nice kick.

The great thing about lasagnas is that you can eat it for lunch the next day and it seems to just get better because the lasagna squares come together and the ingredients combine nicely.

It is surprisingly easy and quick to make and it looks like you've been in the kitchen for hours. Also, with 1 large meat lasagna you can feed a family of 6, easily.

Stop delaying and get into the kitchen? Grab your ingredients and you'll be done in no time.

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Bring Some Color to Your Kitchen with a Juice Extractor

By Aaron Benjamin

Numerous juice makers may be used to help with getting juices out of fruits and vegetables. There are many physical advantages of a juice extractor that you can enjoy. These include a stronger immune system, additional vitamins and minerals in one's daily life and a more effective weight loss plan. This is all because of the natural benefits of the juice that the extractor makes.

One of the main features of these juice makers is that these are used to for getting juices out of fruits and vegetables without a hassle. With this, it is possible to get the juices to be totally natural, without any artificial ingredients that can be found in typical juices. Because of this fact, there will be many excellent health benefits that can be gotten thanks to the juices that are made in a Breville juice extractor.

A strong immune system may often be developed thanks to a juice extractor. This works in that the vitamins that occur naturally in fruits can be used to assist with bolstering the immune system; as a result, they can help the body to be less likely to fall ill.

Another excellent feature is that it will be easier to be able to drink the vitamins and minerals that come in these juices. A major factor about artificially-made juices is that many of them are sure to have artificial ingredients that can easily get in the way of the vitamins and other important nutrients. By taking the juices in their complete natural forms, it will be easier to get the vitamins and minerals that these juices can provide.

Another benefit is that it will be simpler for the body to gain strength. Although beverages such as coffee and soft drinks are a popular choice for staying awake and energized, individuals can easily wind up tired after a period of time. With the juices created by juice extractors, it will be easier to feel more awake and vigorous all day.

The last of these health benefits that can be made by Breville juice fountains is that a weight loss plan will be less unpleasant. The vitamins contained in juices can help to handle one's body and appetite so that it will be easier to lose or control one's weight. Because the juices will taste delicious, it will be far easier to stick to a diet and get these benefits.

The health benefits of a juice extractor are excellent for any individual who is wanting to buy one of these juice makers. The body will gain the ability to build a stronger immune system and will be able to absorb the vitamins and minerals that must be obtained. It will also be less difficult to control one's weight and to get more energy for the day.

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Friday, August 14, 2009

Current News - Healthy Ways To Lose Fat Quickly

By Scott Edwards

When you decide to change something in your life, setting goals and making a plan is vital. If you're aiming to lose weight, targets and goals must be incorporated into the plan. Successful people from all walks of life don't just wake up one morning as high achievers!

Before you embark on your weight loss regime, you'll find it valuable to set yourself a series of goals or targets to help you complete the course. Targets that take a bit of effort, but certainly can be done will keep you on track. Keep your goals easy to understand and measure. They should always be specific, and start reasonably short-term.

Five D's can form the outline of a contract that you should write down - to get a more emotional tie to reaching your goal: Attempt to define what you wish to get out of your soon to be acquired new body, to keep you motivated along the way. Be specific or you won't know when you've achieved it. Re-enforce it with photographs and put them up around where you plan to be.

Desire - explore your emotions for this one and dig deep to discover why your weight is important. Pin point whether it's the admiration of others, the challenge, or the fitness etc. that drives you.

Next comes Dedication (the commitment)... Plan your time each week so you know exactly when you're dedicated to exercising. Have it written on a calendar planner that you can cross off once you've completed it.

It helps to establish a routine, which in turn helps you to remain committed. Establishing your timetable helps you cope better mentally. It's mentally easier for you too, because you don't feel tempted to do other things.

A contract illustrates your Determination to see this thing through. Having a written document about the positive direction of your life makes it harder to bottle out of it. Discipline (to overcome the hard times) - the resolve to work around challenges and not allow them to stop you achieving your goals.

Once you've done this, sign your contract and do not put it away in a drawer. Write down your goals in a specific and realistic manner, then work diligently and consistently to achieve them. Your successful weight loss regime will depend on it.

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Special Wedding Venues In Essex

By Helen Braithwaite

Lovely and fantastic, that's one way you could describe a wedding venue in Essex. Dreams of a fairytale wedding held in a castle, with a nice medieval look to it. Or maybe that former royal palace as a princess who is marrying a prince.

All of this can come true all you need to do is plan a wedding venue in Essex. There are other venues you can choose from besides the examples above. But those are two fabulous ways in which you can start a life with your new spouse.

Since Essex is such a fabulous location, many people will try and reserve a wedding venue. That's why you need to call as early as possible. Though you do have several choices in venues, you can still run into problems with other weddings that have already been planned.

A person who doesn't mind giving some control up can think of hiring a wedding consultant. In planning a wedding venue Essex, this consultant will take on a lot of the responsibility to make sure everything is lined up correctly. Of course they will need to check with you for final preparations, but any help is great.

If you don't mind the winter time, think of a wedding in Essex at that time. Venues will normally run special prices during this time of year. It's a great way to have your wedding where you want it, and save a bit of money. That money you can use on your honeymoon!

A unique way of having your wedding vows held, check out a wedding venue Essex. The setting is one that will truly have you feeling as if you are in heaven.

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Slow Cooking Crock Pots Save Time in the Kitchen

By Mike Sasaki

Tired of spending too much on your monthly food budget? Don't you want to save money by cooking at home and spend less time in the kitchen?!

With the crock pot you'll save time in the kitchen. You can prepare your meal the night before and just flip a switch in the morning before you leave for work. By the time you get home, your meal is done and ready.

The top reasons to buy yourself and your family a crock pot.

1. Save money. Starting a meal in the crock pot in the morning can save you from the temptation of grabbing fast food during the evening family rush hour. Save those fast food bucks for a meal out at a nice restaurant on the weekend when you have time to sit and enjoy it.

2. Save money. This reason's so nice we said it twice. Crockery cooking can make less-expensive cuts of meat tender and delicious.

3. Save time. Cook when you have more energy and less stress. Have your food ready and waiting for you rather than the other way around. Youll also save time on clean up. After the meal, you'll have just one pot to wash. If you have a crock pot with the removable crockery liner (and you really should), clean up is extra easy.

4. Eat healthy. It doesnt take a nutritionist to know that a meal of meat and veggies with a green salad on the side is going to be better for your body than another frozen pizza.

5. Keep your kitchen cool and your food hot. You won't have to heat up the whole house just to roast a chicken or cook a pot of stew. The crock pot also frees the oven and stove for other foods when you're cooking a big meal. Whatever you do, don't peak inside your crock pot by opening up the lid. That'll ruin your meal!

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