Healthy Living 101 - All You Can Eat Fad Diets

All You Can Eat Fad Diets

With weight loss on the rise, so are those trying to turn a profit in the health and diet industries. Many companies say to have found the way to lose weight quick and effectively. However, with all these fad diets there are tons of risks. There are many all you can eat fad diets however there is one that stands out about the rest. The 7 day all you can eat diet offers individuals who are unwilling to make long term lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy body a quick and easy fix for fast weight loss. The 7 day all you can eat diet also known as the cabbage soup diet, the GM diet, the Sacred Heart diet or just simply the all you can eat diet restricts you to a certain food or foods. However you can often eat as much as you like of it for that day. This diet is just a fad diet. It has been circulating around the World Wide Web for years. The all you can eat diet is unhealthy and dangerous.

Metabolism Damage

The all you can eat fad diets work by restricting the number of calories consumed each day. At times, the diet reduces your caloric intake to a dangerously low level and causes your body to go into starvation mode. Starvation mode lowers your metabolism. Lowering your metabolism causes your body to burn calories slower and store it as fat. It is possible to lose weight on this diet however you will immediately gain all the weight back as soon as you go off the diet. Possibly gaining more weight than before you started the diet because of the damage to your metabolism.

Muscle Mass & Malnutrition

Two other major health risks of all you can eat fad diets include loss of muscle mass and vitamin/nutrient deficiencies. Because your body goes into starvation mode it try to find other way to lower the amount of calories needed to function. Therefore, your body will attack your muscles. Muscles burn calories even when they are not in use so burning muscles will save those calories. By the end of you’re the all you can eat diet, you are weaker than you were before. Without the energy to exercise you will not be able to maintain a healthy body or healthy weight loss. Secondly, the all you can eat diet does not provide a balanced meal plan. Your body needs a balanced diet for all its major vitamins and nutrients. With the drastic weight loss your body is bound to suffer vitamin deficiencies due to the poor diet. Vitamin deficiencies lead to a vast majority of serious health conditions.

All you can eat fad diets such offer quick solutions for weight loss followed by a variety of consequences. What good is it to lose weight if you are destroying it in the process? The best way to lose weight is maintaining a proper diet and exercise. There are no magic weight loss solutions. Weight loss is a gradual process. Time your time to give your body what it needs and you will be pleased with the final result. Consult your physician when attempting weight loss for helpful tips and advice to ensure a healthy body.

Healthy Living 101 - Hormonal Cravings

Hormonal Cravings

Hormonal cravings are the effects of changes in our hormones. Hormones are chemicals released by cells or glands that send messages to other parts of the body and contribute largely to our body’s composition and health. There are hormones that stimulate or inhibit your growth, control mood swings, activate or inhibit the immune system, regulate metabolism, prepare the body for activity such as mating or fighting, new phases of life such as puberty or menopause, and control the reproductive cycle. Hormones are largely responsible for spikes in appetite or odd food combinations also known as hormonal cravings. Cravings are mostly temporary and come from time to time, depending on the situation or change. For instance, some of the most noted hormonal cravings are related to women who are approaching their menstruation date or during pregnancy.

Cravings and the Woman’s Body

Research suggests that hormonal cravings are caused by changes in our body that may be affected or that may affect your hormones. In times of stress, menstruation and pregnancy women tend to find that they feel compelled to eat foods that sometimes not in their regular diet. Some women may want to snack excessively on sweets or foods that are salty to taste. This is said to happen because change in hormone levels affect the brain to produce chemicals such as serotonin which can cause women to desire certain food as a way of presenting themselves. For example, women have been known to crave pickles during pregnancy. Pickles are commonly salty to the palette. During pregnancy a woman’s blood volume and will require extra sodium to ensure proper fluid balance. Therefore woman will take to salty foods such as pickles to satisfy this need for sodium. Old wives tales suggests that women crave ice because their bodies are deficient in iron. However, some cravings are symptoms of a serious condition known as “pica”. When cravings begin to include items such as laundry starch, clay, baby powder or pencils it may be sign to see a medical professional. Pica is a condition among children and the mentally handicapped. Pica can sometimes be overlooked in children as children often put things in their mouth as a sign of curiosity.

Cravings and Your Diet

Some hormonal cravings may include large amounts of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are linked to obesity. Carbohydrates are foods that should be eaten in moderation. However, there are food alternatively that have been known to satisfy the carb craving. Substitute starchy for with foods that are rich in whole grains. Whole grains contain the fiber and protein necessary to boost your metabolism and prevent cravings for carbs and some sweet. Whole grain foods are a complex carbohydrate and take longer for our bodies to process therefore it helps to maintain a constant blood sugar level. Do not avoid your cravings. Avoiding your body’s need for certain nutrients can lead to consumption of otherwise unhealthy foods to provide a quick satisfaction for those cravings. Also, people that ignore their cravings tend to eat more than normal. Instead of ignoring your cravings find healthy alternatives. For instances, if you desire more sweets try snacking on fresh fruits.

Hormonal cravings are a big issue for those trying to maintain a healthy diet and avoid snack foods described as “junk foods”. Be sure to avoid overeating by satisfying those needs with healthy alternatives. Sometimes eating several small meals a day will help ease the cravings as you are constantly providing your body with the fuel and nutrients needed to stay healthy and strong.

Metabolism Booting Vegies.

Incorporating these vegetables will help get a leaner and sexy look for the new you.

Metabolism Boosting Vegetables:

Asparagus:

Asparagus is one of those foods that should be added to every dieter’s meal plan. Your body burn more calories just trying to break down asparagus than asparagus contains. This is a great way to boost your metabolism and get those vitamins that your body needs to stay healthy. Asparagus is rich in nutrients and antioxidant. Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamin B. B vitamins are responsible in DNA synthesis, the central nervous system, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein. Vitamin B is also a source of energy production. Individual that may not take in an adequate amount of B6, B12, folic acid, thiamin and niacin often feel depressed and easily fatigued. Having vitamin deficiency also slows your body metabolism which can increase your risk for developing chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and other heart diseases. Beside asparagus vitamin B can be obtained from a host of other vegetables. Just one cup of asparagus provides Vitamin A (29% of RDA), Vitamin C (73% of RDA), Iron (6%) and Calcium (3%). Asparagus contains 32 calories, 6 calories from fat in one cup (8 ounces) as well as 5g of protein and 3g of dietary fiber.

Cabbage:

Cabbage is one of the many vegetables in which contain vitamins and enzyme that aide in burning calories. Metabolism boost come from proteins, vitamins and enzymes stimulators. Cabbage, a member of the brassica family, is known as stimulators of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. P450 enzyme system is involved in the metabolism of a wide range of compounds, including drugs. Most studies of dietary effects on the P450 enzyme system have been shown in the effect of short-term intake of Brassica vegetables. Including 200 grams cabbage in two or three successive meals can increase metabolism. There have been many diets that have included cabbage because of its rapid effects on your metabolism. However cabbage must be paired along with a protein in order to promote healthy weight loss. Cabbage is also a natural laxative therefore it is imperative to replenish the nutrients and vitamins that are being excreted. Plan meals that with cabbage and/or other members of the brassica family to include 2 to 4 ounces of protein for a balanced diet. Balanced meals promote healthy weight loss. In one whole head of cabbage there is only 290 calories, 6 calories from fat. Cabbage contains 70g carbohydrates, 16g protein and 0g cholesterol. According to the % of RDA, cabbage provides 20% Vitamin A, 61% Calcium, 12% Iron and 789% Vitamin C.

Spinach:

Leafy vegetable such as spinach provide a high amount of magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral required by every cell in your body. Magnesium is responsible for proper heart, nerve and muscle function as well as energy, metabolism. Children often symbolize spinach as a source of strength based on the Popeye character. However, spinach in fact is a great source of strength as it enhances muscles performance and the transmission of energy throughout the body. The better your muscle perform the more calories you burn. Increase your consumption of spinach and other high magnesium foods to give your metabolism a boost and burn calories. Spinach is packed full of other important vitamins and nutrients such as potassium, iron, and antioxidants such as vitamin C. Vitamin C fights toxins in your body, builds the immune system and prevents cell damage. Spinach also contains fiber, which is difficult for your body to break down. Therefore your body uses up more energy to process it. Spinach is in season from May to October. Still spinach can be purchased year round both fresh and frozen. One portion of spinach is about 300 grams. Spinach can be enjoyed raw or cooked. One cup of raw spinach contains 7 calories, 1 calorie from fat, 0g saturated fat, 24mg sodium, 1g dietary fiber and 1 g of protein. Spinach provides Vitamin A (56% RDA), Vitamin C (14%), Calcium (3%) and Iron (5%).

Celery:

Celery is believed to be a negative-calorie food. A negative-calorie food is defines as food that burn more calories by digestion than it actually provides. However, celery is NOT a negative calorie food. The thermic effect of food (TEF) causes your body to burn up calories as it processes meals, snacks, and beverages. This process is explanations for anywhere from 0 to 30 percent of the calories you eat. A medium-sized rib of celery has only about six calories and its TEF is approximately half-a-calorie therefore your body actually takes in 5.5 calories and burns .5 calories. Celery is used in weight-loss diets, where it provides low-calorie dietary fiber. Celery seed are also a reliable source of calcium. Some individuals may prefer to snack on celery sticks between meals to subside hunger. Celery is also a way to boost your metabolism is it does provide energy. Celery seeds have been stated to reduce high blood pressure and improve circulation. The USDA suggests that 100 grams of raw celery will only contain as much as 16 calories and only 2 calories from fat. Celery is a good source of riboflavin, Vitamin B^, Calcium, Magnesium, Dietary fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Potassium.

Cucumbers:

Fresh cucumbers are mostly composed of water yet they still provide a great source of nutrition. The flesh of the cucumber alone is full of vitamins such as vitamins A, C and folic acid. Cucumbers are also known for their high fiber content. Fiber is responsible for our body natural processes. Having a daily serving of fiber is important when trying to achieve a healthy body and lifestyle. Cucumbers also contain minerals such as magnesium, silica and potassium. Silica is a mineral that contributes to out connective tissue strength. Connective tissue is what holds our body together. Cucumbers are effective in use for correction of various skin problems, such as swelling under the eyes and sunburn. Cucumbers also contain ascorbic and caffeic acids which are acids that prevent water retention and explain why cucumbers are great for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis. Raw foods contain more enzymes than cooked food. Eating raw cucumber assists in the body's natural metabolism. Cucumber juice is a diuretic which encourages the body to rid itself of toxins and stimulates the body natural processes boosting your metabolism. One half cup of sliced raw cucumber has only 8 calories, 0 fat calories and 1mg Sodium. Cucumbers are a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Magnesium and Potassium.

Carrots:

The sweet and tasty carrot is known for being rich in anti-oxidants, vitamins and dietary fiber. Carrots provide only 41 calories per 100 g, insignificant amount of fat and no cholesterol. Carrots are a very good source of carotenes and vitamin-A. In addition, the vitamin-A in carrots also have been noted to improve vision, reproduction (sperm production), maintenance of skin integrity, growth and development. Carrots contain 1.7 grams of fiber which aides in booting your metabolism. It is recommend consuming up to 25 grams of fiber per day to maintain healthy body and organ functions. Studies also suggest that eating up to 25 grams of carrots, equivalent to a quarter of cup, could decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. Fresh roots such as carrots are a significant source of vitamin C. They also provide approximately 9 percent of the recommended daily value (RDA). Vitamin C is essential in maintaining healthy connective tissue, teeth and gums. Carrots contain good amounts of vitamin B-6, thiamin which help improve energy and boost metabolism. Potassium can also be found in carrots which are great for reducing high blood pressure. One cup of chopped carrots contains 52 calories, 3 calories from fat, 4g dietary fiber, 88mg sodium and 1g protein. Based on the recommended daily allowance, carrots provide 428% Vitamin A, 13% Vitamin C, 4% Calcium and 2% Iron.

Tomatoes:

Tomatoes have been considered one of the top 10 foods to boost the body’s metabolism. An important fact to remember is that in order to boost your metabolism is eating the right foods that encourage your metabolism to work for you. Foods containing the right amounts of fiber, protein, carbohydrates, sodium and cholesterol all play a part in increasing your body’s energy levels and burn calories. Tomatoes are one of these vegetables that are naturally high in fiber and low in calories. The high fiber content is good for satisfying hunger and aiding in proper body functions, especially in the digestive system. Tomatoes contain antioxidants which fight the bad free radicals that are presents during metabolism. Antioxidants are also good for the body’s protection against cell damage. Researchers have found a link between the consumption of foods that contain high amounts of antioxidants and the decrease in the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Tomatoes contain 32 calories per 1 cup serving. Also, a total of 3 calories from fat, 9mg sodium, 2g dietary fiber and 2g protein. Tomatoes provide Vitamin A (30% RDA), Vitamin C (38%), Calcium (2%) and Iron (3%). They are also a good source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Potassium.

Habanero Peppers:

Hot peppers such as habaneros are a low-calorie food that helps boost metabolism by thermogenesis. Thermogenesis means to produce heat and metabolic stimulation. The habanero pepper is rated as the hottest pepper on the Scoville scale. Habaneros can aide in burning calories. 45 calories can be burned in just 3 hours if 6 grams of peppers are eaten. Some of the other benefits of habaneros are based in their vitamins and nutrients. Habanero peppers contain amino acids. Amino acids also help regulate body functions. Tryptophan helps generate serotonin. Serotonin is what regulates our mood and sleep. Habanero peppers also contain lysine which is not produced by our bodies. All lysine must come from our food. Lysine is instrumental in changing fatty acids into energy. Lysine also helps with the absorption and storage of calcium in the body. Habanero chili peppers also provide vitamin C, vitamin A and folic acid. Vitamin C is used in building collagen for bones, teeth and connective tissues. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy eyes, hair and skin integrity. Folic acid aides in the change of carbohydrates into glucose also known as the fuel for your body. An added benefit of habaneros is the spicy heat boosts perspiration. Perspiration is necessary for maintaining your body temperature. A half cup of raw habanero pepper contains 15 calories, 0.7g protein, 3.5g carbohydrate, 0.1g total fat and 0.6g fiber.

Jalapeno Peppers:

Jalapeno peppers are a sure way to boost your body’s metabolism and burn calories. In some culture, jalapeno peppers are favored vegetable or spice. Jalapenos are spicy in flavor and been stated to quickly raise your metabolism. Raw jalapenos is low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Jalapenos are a good source for riboflavin, niacin, iron, and magnesium. Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, Thiamin and dietary fiber are also found in jalapenos. In published studies, 3 mg of dihydrocapsiate (a compound found in chili peppers similar to jalapenos) can raise your metabolism to burn about up to 75 calories a day. It is suggested to plan meals to include up to 10 jalapenos a day. Eating jalapeno peppers will increase your body temperature, a process known as thermogenesis. Once your body’s temperature is increased, your metabolism boosts. Your metabolism must now work harder to get your body’s temperature back to normal. You will begin to perspire at this time as perspiration also aides in cooling your body. Jalapeno peppers as well as other spicy peppers help to burn fat. Jalapenos and other peppers are only a temporary burn and are suggested to be a part of a healthy diet to promote weight loss. One cup of sliced jalapenos only contains 27 calories, 5 calories from fat, 1mg sodium, 3g dietary fiber, and 1g of protein.