Mind Exercises to Strengthen Your Memory

Our minds define and control who we are. A sharp and active mind adds to your personality. Just as physical exercise is necessary for keeping our body healthy and physically fit; similarly any form of mind exercise challenges your brain and sharpens thinking level and cognitive abilities. Mind exercises improve brain functions such as memory, concentration, attention span, processing and other brain skills that also help you stay alert and delays or prevents old-age dementia. It is truly said, “it is the mind that makes the man”.

To unlock the full potential of your brain, you need to keep it active and acute. Weave healthy mind improvement exercises in to your daily routine to challenge your memory and stay sharp.

 

Crossword puzzles

Crossword puzzles are the most popular brain games that help in strengthening the brain power and strengthening memory. Studies have shown that puzzles stimulate the mind and enhance the brain’s circuitry. Puzzles exercise your brain cells and keep them active. Research has shown that playing crossword or other puzzles on a regular basis reduces the risk of developing Dementia (memory related disorder) in old age. So pick up your daily newspaper and work on that crossword puzzle.

Video games

Several studies have shown that video games increase the efficiency of processing auditory and visual information for better response in the game. They are the most entertaining way to enhance your memory skills. Video games improve your focus and concentration, and boost problem solving ability.

While puzzles and games are the best ways to improve our memory, there are several innovative ways that can prevent shrinking of the brain cells and improve brain cell connections:

Shop without a list

One of the reasons our memory fades with time is because we do not challenge our mind enough. Try going to the store without your grocery list, and try to remember everything that you need  to get. Your goal is to find everything without writing it down on paper.

Recall your day activity

When you are ready to go to sleep, go over in your mind what you did that day from the time you got up 'till the time you get into your bed. Try to recall as much detail as possible. Even visualize the activities of the day. This will exercise your mind and strengthen your memory. In the beginning, you may not remember everything in detail, but gradually over a period of time, you will start remembering even the minute details of the day.

Indulge in new activities

Research has shown that trying out new activities pushes our mind to go beyond its comfort zone and learn something new. This keeps your brain focussed on accomplishing new, challenging tasks and strengthens your memory. For example, you can try a different route from your office to home, or play a new sport for couple of weekends in a month.

Read More Often

Studies have shown that reading improves learning and boosts memory. In fact, reading material aloud significantly improves memory of the material and the understanding of the concepts and information.

Are Sugary Drinks Really To Blame for Obesity?

It seems that all across the country municipalities are launching an assault on sugary beverages as a way of curbing the obesity epidemic.  But, are sugary drinks really to blame for obesity?  It's not just a soft drink problem as much as it is a consumption issue.  However, when you run the numbers from the nutrition label it is clear to see why soda and other soft drinks rich in sugar are being targeted.  A 16oz. bottle of Coke, for instance, contains 54 grams of carbohydrates. That's a lot of carbs for such a small serving. 

All carbohydrates are composed of sugar. When you add up all of the sodas and other carb-loaded foods that are consumed in a day, you begin to understand why obesity and diabetes have become such a big health concern today. While carbohydrates are a necessary source of energy, whatever amount that is not burned by the body gets stored as fat.  As this fat accumulates, people get bigger and bigger.

To be fair, soft drinks are not the only culprit.  Juices and even some fruit have a high sugar content.  An apple can contain as much as 25 grams of carbohydrates.  However, the fiber in apples acts like sort of a fail stop mechanism that fills you up. To help people make healthier choices restaurants and fast food places have begun listing nutrition information on their menus.  You can also visit nutritiondata.self.com to see how your favorite foods stack up and to find healthier alternatives.

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What Is P90x?

Ever since Rep. Paul Ryan was selected as Mitt Romney's VP pick, there has been plenty of talk around the water cooler about Ryan's exhaustive fitness regimen which is a workout program from fitness trainer Tony Horton called P90x. Since its release in 2004, more than 2 million individuals have used P90x to reach their fitness goals.

About Tony Horton

Tony Horton didn't plan on becoming a fitness instructor, he initially wanted to become an actor. However in Hollywood, possessing a good physique can help you get your acting career started. To remain fit, he started transforming his body. He was successful in transforming himself and constructing a better image and insight to life that Hollywood began to notice. He eventually became one of the most preferred celebrity fitness trainers.

However it was when he met the CEO of Beachbody, that his cardiovascular routine, that's helping him and also other Hollywood stars and clients transform their bodies, was recognized. This signified the beginning of a profitable business relationship and more successful calisthenic workouts. He helped in creating the Great Body Guaranteed in 1998. Until the P90x, the strength 90 was possibly one of the original home training training videos.

Does P90x Work?

After Power 90, Tony Horton created a more aggressive and intense program, the P90x. It is not only those who were fighting their heaviness and curious about buffing their body more, fitness professionals, athletes and celebrities started making use of or using the P90x workout principles.

The P90x functions on a simple principle: muscle confusion. It's all about using different muscles through different workouts and routines. Before your body could conform to the workout, the person will just be shifting to a different workout method. The principle could deliver results within 90-days. In addition, it incorporates a nutritional and diet plan which balances and compliments the results of the workout.

The success of the P90x was not just dependent on luck. Tony Horton has also been studying and practicing  the best approach to further improve one's physique and overall health.

P90X is the Most Extreme Home Fitness Training System Ever! Click here to get your DVDs

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Heat Stroke On The Rise This Summer, Preventable

July 2012

Most of the country is experiencing record heat conditions and heat related illnesses, due to prolonged exposure to heat, are on the rise.  Those with breathing problems, children and the elderly are especially at risk.  Those in affected areas need to take caution and consume an adequate amount of fluids. Sweating is the natural action of the body and cooling mechanism to counter heat and is often the first sign of dehydration before the onset of heat stroke. Many people simply ignore these warning signs without proper hydration and continue with their normal physical activities.



Heat Stroke - The Warning Signs (one or more signs may be present)

• Throbbing Headache
• Rapid pulse
• High body temperature (103°F+)
• Skin appears red and dry
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Unconsciousness

What to Do?

1. Call for medical assistance as soon as possible.
2. Get individual to a shady area.
3. Apply cool water or wrap individual in a cool towel to bring down body temperature.

How to Prevent Heat Stroke?

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid the sun
• Apply sunblock daily
• Limit intake of caffeine and alcohol
• Check on children and the elderly
• Don't leave children or pets in the car (even with the windows down)

Heat strokes are very much preventable if certain precautions are taken like drinking adequate water during hot days, avoiding alcoholic and caffeine drinks, wearing light clothes, exercising in cooler time of the day, wearing sunglasses and applying sun block.

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Part Time Workers May Be First Casualties of ObamaCare

As businesses work to figure out the best way to implement the new health care law into the workplace, many part time employees may lose their hours.  That's because the law requires that part time employees in some businesses who work more than 30 hours per week be entitled to health insurance from their employer.  When you have minimum wage part time workers and a business suddenly has to spend up to $10,000 per year to provide health insurance for each worker, it is the equivalent of doubling their salary.  Therefore, many employers may be forced to cut their part time workforce or reduce their hours in order to remain competitive.  Those employers that do extend health insurance to part timers will almost certainly have to pass on the cost to the consumer which will result in higher prices in an economy that is already facing increased inflation.  The retail, grocery, tourism and hospitality industries employ some of the largest numbers of part time workers. This could also have a devastating effect on the part time worker that depends on their hours to make ends meet and would otherwise not be able to afford to comply with the individual mandate.

With the individual mandate, health insurance carriers no longer have an incentive to work with businesses or consumers to lower premiums.  In fact, just the opposite is happening.  Recently, WellPoint, Inc. announced its acquisition of AmeriGroup.  More consolidation is expected and there will likely be less competition and fewer choices for businesses and consumers that may ultimately have the unintended consequence of higher premiums and reduced benefits.  However, you can't really blame the insurance providers either.  After all, legislation requires them to insure everyone regardless of health.  There are also no more lifetime caps on benefits and individuals can't be dropped from their policy when they become sick. These are welcomed changes, for sure.  As a result, insurance providers need to be able to comply with the law and remain solvent in order to provide the benefits that the law mandates.

Unfortunately, as timing would have it, our economy is teetering on the verge of a double-dip recession.  Employment numbers have been steadily declining since January 2012 and June's job numbers reported only 90,000 new jobs.  The U.S. economy needs to generate a minimum of 200,000 new jobs each and every month just to stay above water.  In 2013, businesses will have to pay a new health care tax.  This will almost certainly result in fewer employees getting raises going forward.  With less cash in their pockets to spend, our economy may begin to decline at a more rapid pace.  While we are in the early stages of implementing the new health care law, it will certainly take some time for it to be absorbed into the economy.

Many penalties face businesses under Obamacare
The hours worked by part-time employees (those working less than 30 hours per week) are included in the calculation of a large employer, on a monthly basis, by dividing their total number of monthly hours worked by 120.

7 Simple Ways To Relieve Stress

With all of the pressures of daily life, the build-up of stress can have a detrimental effect on one's health if left untreated.  However, there are many ways that one can deal with the stress head-on and reduce its negative effects without having to resort to medication.

1. Get at least 7 hours of restful sleep each night. Research studies have shown that sleep deprivation can become a major health issue. Our body needs a good 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.  If you're unable to get enough sleep and you frequently wake up feeling tired, its time to make an appointment with a health care professional to rule out any medical issues that may be interrupting your sleep pattern.

2. Limit caffeine intake. With caffeine being so widely available its easy to forget that it is a drug.  Large doses of caffeine can cause headaches and heart palpitations.  You can reduce your caffeine intake by 50% by mixing half decaf  with your morning ritual.  Also, try switching to decaf in the afternoon if you are in the habit of drinking coffee during the day.  Drinking caffeinated beverages within four hours of bedtime can make it difficult to fall asleep. Yes, caffeine gives you a burst of energy to enable you to feel more alert but the effect is limited.

3. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Your body needs a certain amount of vitamins and minerals everyday. Make sure each meal has at least one serving of both fruits and veggies.  Apples and bananas are very healthy. Bananas are not fattening and apples help the immune system. Carrots make great afternoon snacks.

4. Watch your salt intake.  Salt raises your blood pressure, so keep an eye on salty foods being consumed. Fast foods, pre-packaged meals and processed foods contain extremely high levels of salt.  Even those foods labeled as low-sodium contain very high levels. When eating out, ask preparers to reduce the salt when preparing your meal.  Higher blood pressure can be very dangerous if left untreated which is why it is known as the silent killer.

5. Reflect on your positive accomplishments. Review the past week and concentrate on those positive aspects that made you feel good. Did something occur that attracted an experience of joy and laughter? Spend some time thinking about that moment and what you can do to continue feeling positive.

6. Find a hobby. Spend some time doing things you enjoy.  It may be photography, bird watching, hiking or anything that you like to do.  This will take your mind off the daily grind while you spend some quality time with yourself, family and friends.

 7. Take a nap. A short 15-20 minute nap in the afternoon can give you the rejuvenation you need to feel more rested and energized to finish your daily tasks.  If you work from home, or are on the road a lot,  scheduling a few minutes of downtime during the day to relax can be very beneficial.

Try one or more of these tips to relieve stress each day and you will be on the road to a more healthy body and mind.

Are Artificial Flavors In Foods Making Us Fat?

It is common knowledge that foods rich in trans-fats, high GI carbohydrates and junk foods have contributed to rising obesity. However, most people don't realize the chemicals and other ingredients that make up artificial flavors also have significant consequences on our health and ability to stay fit. These "secret" ingredients that are summed up on food product labels as artificial flavors have invaded a majority of the food products in the entire market, but recently there are increasing debates about artificial flavors; whether they promote fat gain and the main differences between them and natural flavors.

First of all, let’s try to understand the mechanism that makes our body store fat, and then we will move on to the artificial flavors and artificial ingredients, and see how these can actually catalyze this fat storing mechanism. Insulin is a hormone that helps in the metabolism of sugar. Also, whenever we consume any carbohydrate, it causes an insulin spike in our body, to metabolize the sugar from the carbohydrate source. It’s been found that this insulin spike is higher in cases of high GI (processed) carbohydrates.  This insulin spike is directly related to fat storage. A higher insulin spike will increase the fat storage capacity of our body. Some artificial flavors are found to cause this insulin spike. That’s why, whenever we eat something that contains artificial flavoring ingredients, we are effectively putting our body in fat storage mode.

While the FDA and other organizations, which are related to the supervision of food products, have strict guidelines and procedures in place to inform the general public that artificial flavors exist in food items; however, companies do not have to list these additives as separate ingredients. For instance; everybody knows that Mono-Sodium Glutamate or MSG is related to various health problems and obesity is one of the most prominent of these. No wonder it is also sometimes referred to as a slow poison, as it is known to triple the insulin amount and thus promoting weight gain. However, companies are still using these artificial flavors under different names, like hydrolyzed vegetable protein, for example. In fact, many recipes from the famous food chains and restaurants contain artificial flavors, and MSG is one of them.

 One of the best ways to avoid artificial flavors in food is to consume only natural or organic foods. Organic foods are prepared without the use of artificial flavors and colors or any other preservatives. While there is no doubt that artificial flavors promotes weight gain, but artificial flavors and other additives can lead to a variety of other health complications such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), cancers and many types of gastrointestinal problems, among others.

In conclusion, despite so many campaigns against the artificial flavors, they are still very much part of the food we eat on a daily basis.  Perhaps some day we will be able to convince food companies to list all of the additives and ingredients that goes into their products instead of labeling them simply as artificial flavors.

Fish Is More Than Just Brain Food

It’s no secret that fresh fish is one of the best foods that people can eat for positive health results. It's low in fat, high in protein and contains other important nutrients.  However, millions of people don't have enough fish in his or her diet and are lacking important nutrients.

Fish oil contains omega-3 essential fatty acids that are beneficial to health. While there is no recommended daily allowance, the Food and Nutrition Board suggests total fat intake ought to be in the range of 20% to 30% of calories. Among the better sources of Omega-3 include Alaskan wild salmon, Arctic char and Atlantic mackeral. You are able to prepare fish in a number of ways including baking, grilling and broiling. Frying fish or topping it with rich sauces will not only negate the health rewards, nonetheless it increases the exposure to cardiovascular disease.

Also, eating too much fish is not advised.  This is due to contaminants from mercury and other industrial chemicals from ocean pollution and poor farming practices.  Whenever possible, it is best to source wild-caught sustainable fish instead of farm raised. 

If you don't eat fish for any particular reason you can still obtain the benefits.  According to the National Institutes of Health, fish oil supplements provide a number of health benefits like improving the heart and circulatory system. Indeed, research indicates that fish oil does lower the bad cholesterol and may prevent heart disease and stroke. A primary reason that fish oil is often called brain food is because it has helped many individuals with Alzheimer’s, ADHD and other brain conditions.

There is a sign that fish oil can promote weight loss. Preliminary research does show that eating fish decreases blood sugar levels and has improved weight loss in some overweight individuals. Because of this, some fish oil supplements can decrease weight with exercise.

In general, fish oil supplements are safe when taken as directed. However, those who have seafood allergies may also be allergic to fish oil supplements. Other possible unwanted effects include halitosis, heartburn and nausea. Taking fish oil supplements with food can reduce possible unwanted effects. Also, overdosing can cause a stroke. So be sure you go over dosing instructions and check with a health care professional.

There are A Number of CoQ10 Benefits That Can Enhance Health

CoQ10 is an enzyme that is organically produced by our body. Its principal role is the production of energy along the cellular level, however, it also happens to have necessary antioxidant benefits. For example, it can help prevent the destruction of cells that occurs from free radicals.

In women, there are CoQ10 benefits at every stage of life. An all-natural energy vitamin with efficient antioxidant abilities, CoQ10 supplements certainly play a key function in maintaining health for many women's challenges. Research studies worldwide have indicated that females who took supplemental CoQ10 through their pregnancies had lower effects of complications.

One of the most extremely exciting results of the continuing research on CoQ10 benefits is the role it plays in maintaining and restoring heart health. In the past few years numerous studies have investigated the benefit of co-enzyme Q10 supplementation to enhance cardiovascular function. The compound has been confirmed to boost energy production and improve the strength of heart muscles.

The most promising research with CoQ10 benefits is in the area of anti-aging. An increasing range of studies indicate powerful anti-oxidant properties could make it a key player in preventing or reducing a number of age-related disorders including Alzheimer's disease. It also been shown to substantially enhance Vitamin E's known anti-inflammatory effect. This can help in minimizing the problems of age-related vascular diseases including heart disease, the world's biggest killer.

CoQ10 may well be a crucial tool for protecting our skin. Free radicals can damage skin cells which has long been implicated as a causal factor in lots of illnesses, including most age-related diseases and disorders. The CoQ10's neutralizing, healing, and cell repair ability make it an indispensable preventative measure along with help for sun-damaged skin.

Finally, The National Cancer Institute says that the coenzyme may improve the level of immunity as a therapy in the course of treatment for cancer. On top of that, its antioxidant properties may protect cells against free radical damage which could result in cancer in the first place. Both animal studies and clinical trials have indicated that increasing quantities of the coenzyme stimulates the immune system, making the body more resistant to disease. In addition, animal studies show that CoQ10 helped protect the hearts of animals given anti-cancer drugs capable of damaging the heart and decreasing cardiac function. You can be sure that more studies will continue so we can learn more about the CoQ10 benefits on improving overall health.

Many Dietary Supplements Supply Essential Nutrients

There are numerous problems that can influence your health unless it is corrected. Moreover, eating the same kinds of foods repeatedly may cause a lack of fundamental nourishment. Therefore, a more balanced approach at meal time should really be incorporated in your regular diet. However, when this is not possible, for a variety of reasons, dietary supplements may be beneficial.

Some of the most common natural diet supplements contain organic herbs with antioxidant properties, vitamins and minerals. These natural supplements are best for individuals who want to abstain from formulas that are made with synthetic fillers along with other elements. Before making a purchase, always review the manufacturer's information so that you understand what you are buying. Choose a brand which has been available for some time and is known to be safe and effective.

Dietary supplements provide an outstanding way to obtain important nourishment to our body by using vitamins, minerals, proteins, and amino acids. Every one of these nutrients may help to restore your system, boost your natural energy levels and help prevent a vitamin deficiency. Moreover, many natural supplement products contain nutrients in higher concentrations. These types of supplements, albeit more expensive, are usually absorbed faster providing more immediate benefits. Some of the less expensive ones aren't as easily absorbed and are quickly excreted providing limited benefits, so you will want to take this into consideration. 

Dietary supplements can include many powerful natural antioxidants which can aid in removing free radicals and toxins that may cause cellular damage. So, ensure your body has the proper levels of the right nutrition and enjoy living a healthy lifestyle.

The Link Between Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease

Oral care is such a basic activity that a number people are not aware of potential heart problems that can occur for not taking proper care of their teeth and gums. Researchers have recognized for years that there is a link involving periodontal disease and heart disease. It is routinely known that the build up of plaque surrounding the gingival tissues and the teeth can get into the bloodstream contributing to plaque that ends up constricting arteries. Additionally, oral troubles that remain neglected can develop into bacterial infections.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for both men and women. Analysis from scientific tests affirmed that heart patients with deprived oral health possess a substantial higher danger of heart disease. More results from different research studies confirmed  a significant linkage involving tooth loss and also prevalence of heart conditions. As stated by the American Periodontal Association, individuals with oral problems are as much as twice as vulnerable to having coronary artery conditions. Not only that, but, gum conditions can make current heart issues even worse. Newer studies show that oral problems can be a risk for stroke too. Sometimes brushing alone is not enough and a trip to the dentist is needed to help keep your gums and teeth healthy. Upon taking proper care of your teeth, you are also caring for your heart and mind.

It is easy to overlook dental problems, however, dental hygiene is important to prevent gum disease and heart disease. This consists of flossing regularly, brushing two times each day using a dentifrice, and stopping by your dental professional not less than two times per year. If you follow healthy eating habits and some exercise in your lifestyle, you really can be working in the direction of greater heart health and fitness.

Two Things To Avoid For A Healthy Diet

Regardless of the type of diet you may be on, or what your current lifestyle is, there are definitely some healthy eating facts that always stay the same. Saturated fat, for example, is not healthy for you, and it doesn't matter how active or sedentary you are, nor does it matter how much you weight or how many calories you eat per day. Facts are facts. Man-made trans fats are always unhealthy. Another fact is that restricting your calories too severely can take its toll on your body.

One thing that people didn't need to concern themselves with several years ago was trans fats; to be more specific, man-made trans fats, as there are some naturally occurring trans fats which aren't a major health issue. The good news is that trans fats are easy to spot on food labels, but only when you know how. The most recent labeling guidelines say that food manufacturers have to show how much trans fats are in each serving of their food. However, if it's under a certain amount, thy are allowed to show it as 0 grams of trans fat, even if there is some of it in the food. While this is playing dirty with your health, there is a way you can know for sure. Simply read the full list of ingredients. If you see the word 'hydrogenated', then it contains man-made trans fats and you should leave it on the shelf.

Researchers first brought hydrogenated fats and oils to the market in 1911. At the time they solved a big problem: spoilage. Refrigeration was still fairly new, and a lot of homes had no way of keeping their food cool. This meant that most foods that contained fats would turn rancid on the shelf. Trans fats changed that. All of a sudden, people could have margarine, shortening, instant cocoa and various mixes at home.

Refrigeration is no longer a problem, but trans fats are. That's because researchers have found a link between hydrogenated fats and various diseases. This is most likely due to the fact that hydrogenation changes the molecular properties of otherwise natural fats. Even the government is starting to change the way it looks at trans fats.

Healthy eating facts don't end with trans fats, though. Another thing to avoid is carbonated soft drinks. Sodas, for example, contain as much as 3 tablespoons of sugar in a 12 ounce can! And it's all empty calories. Even those soft drinks that have added nutrients aren't that great for you, because you are still getting way too many simple carbohydrates.

Most such beverages also contain artificial flavors, caffeine, artificial colors and other things that aren't any good for you. But what about sodas that use artificial sweeteners? They aren't good for you either. The jury is still out on various sweeteners, but so far it looks they are not worth the risk. Even if they aren't that bad for you, there are enough other bad things in carbonated beverages to make steering clear of them another one of the healthy eating facts you can rely on.
   

Spicy Black Bean Chili

This is a healthy and delicious chili that is super easy to prepare in less than 30 minutes. It's got a little kick to it which is sure to be a hit while watching the Superbowl.

What you will need:

1 15 oz can Tex Mex style fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 14 oz can black beans
2 patties veggie burgers
7-1/2 ozs (1/2 can) tomato sauce
2 tsp. crushed garlic
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika

Directions: Defrost and set aside 2 veggie burger patties.  In a medium saucepan, pour in the black beans (including the liquid), diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.  Heat until it starts to boil and reduce heat.  Crumble in veggie patties and remaining ingredients.  Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve with corn tortilla chips. Top with cheese if desired. Yields 4 servings. From the kitchens of Healthy Lifestyles eZine. © 2012, ITC Media Publications, LLC.

Fitness Exercises for Kids

Fitness exercises can prove to be very helpful for kids as they can help them to stay healthy and fit in the long run. With the changing trends, the kids are living more of a sedentary lifestyle these days. The kind of lifestyle they are leading presently can result in varied health-related problems for them as they grow older.

Sitting in front of the television or computer for long hours is one of the major reasons of kids becoming unhealthy and obese. Consumption of junk food while watching television is another major contributor to this. Their lack of physical activity results in the necessary calories not being burnt and this makes them overweight leading to early problems with obesity.

Fitness, as an essential part of overall health, is extremely important for kids. There are various ways in which the fitness levels of children can be raised. Traditionally, exercises and a healthy diet were considered necessary only for the adults but these days obesity levels are also increasing among the children. Thus the importance of exercises cannot be ignored.

Advantages of regular exercising for kids

Exercise can make the muscles as well as the bones of the children stronger and result in overall fitness. Along with making them strong, the children also learn how they can control the body fat so that the chances of becoming obese later in their life can be avoided.

The chances of getting Type 2 diabetes are also reduced among the children if a regular exercise regimen is followed by them. Children who undergo regular exercising also have low blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Importance of exercising for kids

If exercises are not made a part of the daily routine along with a nutritious diet, it can lead to obesity in children. It is the parent’s duty to pay adequate attention for ensuring fitness of their children.

Parents should encourage their children to perform exercises such as cycling, swimming, running and walking. This will strengthen their cardiovascular systems and also establish the healthy habits of regular exercising which will benefit them and have definite positive effects on their health.

Ways of achieving health for kids

In order to ensure weight loss and maintenance of an ideal weight for their children, parents and guardians should encourage them to participate in various physical activities. The kids should regularly take part in physical education classes in order to keep themselves fit. They should also be encouraged by their parents to take part in extra-curricular activities in school or in the local community.

Since children generally get bored with routine exercises, parents can help in making physical exercise fun by organizing dancing programs and games. They can also encourage their children to undergo sport fitness programs or play various games such as softball, baseball, tennis, football and soccer. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that kids are bound to enjoy. Initiating the kids in these games is one of the best ways of helping them to stay fit.


Article is the courtesy of: Fitness Watchers

Heart Healthy High Fiber Foods

Heart disease has become a global problem. Many people are not aware of the effect that foods can have; especially, when they are young not really recognizing that their favorite take out dinners could be gradually contributing to heart disease. It is far better to follow a healthy diet now, in order to avert cardiovascular ailments in the coming years.  People with a family history of heart disease are more prone to having heart problems. Sadly, many people don’t find out that there exists a history of these issues until they are in danger. Thus, you should make healthier choices for your heart today by increasing your intake of high fiber foods to prevent heart disease.

Often, when we talk about a heart diet, we mean high fiber foods. These ingredients have the nutrition you need to help lower the level of bad cholesterol and maintain a healthier heart. On top of that, they can also help your digestive tract to function better.

Always include one serving of both fruits and vegetables with every meal. Apples and pears are examples of delicious fibrous fruits that contain a lot of fiber. For veggies, you can try artichoke, peas, and broccoli. Another way to increase your fiber intake is to change to the whole wheat varieties of rice, cereals, and pasta. Whole wheat pasta, for instance, has a lofty content of fiber. For those of you who are more of a rice eater, you could choose brown rice as an alternative. Moreover, try including more legumes, nuts and green leafy vegetables like spinach. Also, lima beans, black beans and barley, are all very good for the heart.

There are quite a lot of foods that you can eat to support a heart friendly diet and still enjoy every meal. This is not a recommendation for a 100% fiber diet because that could potentially contribute to other health problems. At all times, it is recommended to have a well-balanced meal. However, you can boost your fiber intake a bit to help prevent heart disease.

Always bear in mind that every little thing you take in will have an impact on your entire health. For that reason, you might try to adapt to more nutritious food groups so you can have a prolonged and a more comfortable lifestyle.

Healthy Spinach Bean Salad Recipe

This is a quick and delicious salad that is packed with nutrients and is extremely easy to prepare. 

Ingredients:
12 oz package, fresh spinach
2-5 oz cans, White Albacore Tuna
15 oz can, Three Bean Salad
10 oz can, Mandarin Oranges

1 pint, Cherry Tomatoes
3 oz finely shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions: Empty spinach into large mixing bowl.  Pour entire contents of three bean salad and mandarin oranges, including the liquid (this will become the salad dressing). Add both cans of tuna.  Toss well. Serve in a bowl topped with cherry tomatoes and Parmesan. Yields 4 servings.

Some Interesting Natural Pain Relievers You May Not Have Heard About

Relieving pain is something that everyone will need at some point.  Some more than others.  Most of us just reach for the medicine cabinet without giving much thought even if there are some unpleasant side effects.  There are many individuals who may never considered bee venom as a therapy, but this uncommon natural pain reliever works for some people. It often comes in a cream and is used to relieve chronic pain including arthritis.

Another natural pain reliever is an interactive metronome which is used to minimize the pain associated with a sinus infection.  Many people take advantage of acupuncture as a natural treatment in comparison to medications. A lumbar stabilization program could lead to benefiting lots of people. Some agree that the pairing of lumbar stabilization with fish oil supplements is something that might help a person get on the road to beneficial health within 6 months.

Vitamins can even help you feel better. For instance, Vitamin D is something that generally helps many people feel alive with more gusto. This is really beneficial if you happen to live in a place that has many cloudy days. Meanwhile, Vitamin B-12 is a nutrient that helps some deal with depression. Also, a person with digestive issues may even want to consider taking a B-12 shot.  These shots are often suggested for those having difficulties with the end result of gastric bypass surgery.

There are a number of natural topical pain relievers available that can improve your quality of life less the side effects commonly encountered in medications.