Women+Belly Fat = Not good

May 23, 2009 
Filed under Diet & Fitness

 

Belly Fat Doesn’t Bode Well for Women

Large Waists Linked to Higher Death Rates in Women, Regardless of Weight

Having a big waist may raise women’s death rates, even in women who aren’t overweight.

That news comes from a study of 44,600 female nurses enrolled in a long-term health study.

The bottom line: Waists mattered more than weight.

Being in the normal weight range was less important than having a waist less than 34.6 inches and a waist-to-hip ratio of less than 0.88 .To calculate your waist-to-hip ratio, divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement.

"Although maintaining a healthy weight should continue to be a cornerstone in the prevention of chronic diseases and premature death, it is equally important to maintain a healthy waist size and prevent abdominal obesity," the researchers write in the April 1 edition of Circulation.

Belly Fat Study

When the nurses were 40 to 65 years old, they measured their waists and hips for the study. At the time, none had had heart disease or cancer.

Every two years, they updated their health and lifestyle records for the study, including their physical activity, smoking, alcohol use, and menopausal status.

The nurses were followed for 16 years. During that time, a total of 3,507 of the nurses died, including 751 who died of heart disease and 1,748 who died of cancer.

Regardless of other factors, including BMI ( body mass index, which relates height to weight), women with larger waists and greater waist-to-hip ratios had higher death rates from all causes, including heart disease and cancer, which are the top two killers of U.S. women.

For example, among women of normal weight, those with a waist larger than 34.6 inches were three times as likely to die of heart disease, compared to women with smaller waists.

Large hips weren’t a problem, if the waist wasn’t also large. In fact, having large hips and a small waist was associated with lower risk of death from heart disease.

 

Waist Check

Simply measuring the waist will do. The waist-to-hip ratio wasn’t a better predictor of death rates and is more cumbersome, note the researchers, who included Cuilin Zhang, MD, PhD, of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Zhang’s team used the definitions for abdominal obesity recommended by the American Heart Association and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Those cutoffs are waist circumference of 34.6 inches for women and 40 inches for men.

The study doesn’t prove that abdominal fat is lethal. Observational studies like this one don’t prove cause and effect.

Guide To Body Fat (Adipose Tissue)

May 23, 2009 
Filed under Fitness

 

Body Fat Explained

What Is The Purpose Of Storing Body Fat?

Storage of fat on the body is a critical defence mechanism. Remember, the human body has not changed essentially since the Stone Age. At that time starvation and famine were ever-present dangers to survival, while over-consumption and obesity were unheard of. To enable Stone Age humans to survive periods of food scarcity, the human body was designed to store energy which could then be drawn upon in times of famine. Thus for example, people could overeat during the hunting season, or when food was plentiful, and the surplus would be stored as fat tissue (adipose tissue). And when food was short, the body would burn the deposite fat as energy. Of course Stone Age life and body chemistry was/is much more complicated than this simple explanation suggests, but it suffices to explain why we have a built-in fat storage facility.

How Are Carbs, Protein And Fat Absorbed And Stored?

The human body needs energy to power muscles and to fuel the millions of chemical and biological reactions which take place throughout our system every day. This energy comes from the food we consume in our diet. Food consists mainly of water and three types of nutrient – protein, dietary fats and carbohydrate – which are found in varying proportions in most foods. These nutrients are broken down, digested and absorbed by the body in the gastrointestinal tract, running from the mouth to the anus. Each of these macronutrients is processed and absorbed by the digestive system in different ways.

How Are Surplus Carbs Used And Stored?

Carbohydrate is the major source of energy for the body. This is because, of all nutrients, it converts most readily to glucose which is the body’s preferred fuel. When we eat carbohydrate, it is converted to glucose in the digestive tract and distributed via the liver to cells throughout the body for use as energy. Once our immediate energy needs are satisfied, the remaining carb glucose is handled in one of two ways. Either it is converted to liquid glycogen (a temporary source of readily available energy) and stored in the liver or muscles. Or, it is converted into fatty acids by the liver and stored in adipose cells (fat-cells) around the body.

How Is Surplus Protein Used And Stored?

Protein is broken down into amino acids in the stomach and small intestine, then distributed via the liver to cells throughout the body for a variety of uses included cell formation and repair. Some surplus protein amino acids are kept circulating in the bloodstream, the remainder is either converted into a type of simple sugar and used as energy, or (like carbohydrate) is converted to fatty acid and stored in adipose cells.

How Is Surplus Dietary Fat Used And Stored?

Dietary fat is broken down into fatty acids and glycerol by the stomach and small intestine. It is then distributed (in the form of triglycerides) via the lymphatic system and bloodstream to the cells for a variety of specialized uses or, in the absence of sufficient carbs, for energy. However, since dietary fat cannot be converted into protein and only about 5 percent (the glycerol part) is convertible into glucose, and because dietary fat is not the body’s preferred choice of fuel, a significant amount ends up being stored as body fat in the adipose tissue.

Conversion Of Body Fat To Energy

If energy is required suddenly, the body first uses up its glycogen reserves. After this, it converts the body fat in the adipose cells into energy by a catabolic process called lipolysis. During lipolysis, triglycerides within the adipose cells are acted upon by a complex enzyme called hormone sensitive lipase (HSL). This converts the triglyceride into fatty acids and glycerol. The fatty acids are then transported via the bloodstream to tissues for use as energy, or (along with the glycerol) taken to the liver for further processing.

Adipose Tissue

Adipose cells which make up adipose tissue are specialized cells which contain and can synthesize globules of fat. This fat either comes from the dietary fat we eat or is made by the body from surplus carbohydrate or protein in our diet. Adipose tissue is mainly located just under the skin, although adipose deposits are also found between the muscles, in the abdomen, and around the heart and other organs. The location of fat deposits is largely determined by genetic inheritance. Thus it is not possible to affect where we store fat. Nor is it possible to influence from which area the body burns fat for energy purposes.

Why Do We Get Fat?

Most of us develop body fat because we eat more calories than we burn in exercise. Given a culture which emphasises "value for money food portions" and "super-sizing", along with an steady increase in serving size, an upsurge of new tasty high-calorie foods and energy drinks, such over-consumption is perhaps only to be expected. Lack of exercise is also a major contributory factor. However, overeating and lack of fitness is not the whole story.

Why Are So Many People Obese?

The prevalence and incidence of obesity (the disease of excess body fat) has risen considerably over the past 25 years, both in the developed and undeveloped world. Why is this? We don’t know for sure. Despite extensive research into the causes and predictors of obesity, they remain unquantified. In other words, although we know that (eg) excessive calorie intake, lack of exercise, metabolic disorders and genetic inheritance all impact on the incidence and symptoms of obesity, experts still don’t know the relative contribution of these causal factors. The only thing that most experts agree on, is that the recent upsurge in obesity cannot be attributed in any major way to the influence of genes, since genetic changes typically take millennia to appear, not two decades. Even so, the connections between type 2 diabetes, raised blood fats, obesity and insulin insensitivity – a cluster of symptoms which form the condition known as insulin resistance syndrome – is evidence of a progressive deterioration in the body’s metabolic efficiency, which may be a growing underlying factor in the development of excess body fat among many people.

What You Must Appreciate About Slimming Down Using The Walking Method

Walking to burn calories is the most straight forward but most helpful cardiovascular fitness there is. Walking for a complete mile at a continual standard rate burns up as much calories as jogging for quarter of an hour – lacking the pressure on the knees and ankles too. Still, a quantity of individuals come across walking to be too much of an sweat, merely as they feel pains in their joints or do not take pleasure in the exercise routine at all.There are techniques on how to create this form of fitness both harmless and pleasing at the same time. All it requires is a little planning previous to venturing out.

1. Attain comfy walking shoes. There are running shoes, there are tennis shoes, there are all varieties of rubber shoes – although of course, the individual who wants to walk on a daily basis needs to make use of snug walking shoes. Walking shoes must be flat, with a somewhat undercut heel, and ought to be bendable enough to bend and twist with the actions of the foot. The shoe ought to fit a bit loosely and thin socks ought to be used. If the walking shoes are very constricting, walking will happen to be hurting in a matter of time in view of the fact that this will constrict the blood circulation to the toes. It is in addition important for the individual to trim toe nails so that these will not hold back the walking stride.

2. Locate the best speed. A individual who is in very good shape ought to walk a quick pace with no glitch. In spite of this, there are individuals who do find this difficult. The best solution to this is to agree to the individual hit upon the most contented pace first (at least for the first few weeks.) If the individual requires to make use of a cane for the period of the first few days, then he or she must do so. Sooner or later, the leg and lung muscles increase stronger endurance. The cane can be dispensed with after a time. The rate must also be picked up a little more so everyday.

3. Find the best time. Depending on where the person actually lives, temperature plays a central position in making the walks more comfortable. A number of persons who live in exceptionally hot or dry places could find walking in the break of day more appropriate, instead of walking during the afternoon or at nighttime. For people who live in exceedingly cold places, afternoon walks or before dinner walks might be more desirable. Other individuals simply find it more convenient to squeeze in walking period during lunch time or even after dinner.

4. Find a flat walking surface. An sloping road makes it specially challenging for a number of walkers to maintain the exercise schedule, so finding a more smooth route is sensible. Walking paths may possibly be perfect, although the not level routes and stone littered walkways may not be good for individuals with bad knees or folks who have aches and pains in their joints. A level, flat surface is always fantastic, even if it means merely walking around the block some times.

5. Discover a companion. A companion, a spouse or even a animal to escort the individual for the period of his walks can make this exercise an pleasing thing. Conversing during the walk or purely taking in the sights assists to keep the person’s mind off the work out regimen and he or she may walk a longer distance without realizing. This increases the probability of losing weight faster than before.

Perhaps walking isn’t actually you’re thing or you desire to understand more about slimming down, you ought to therefore read about how much can an obese person lose on a liquid fast and healthy ways to loose fat.

Aerobic Exercise

May 19, 2009 
Filed under Fitness, Indoor Activities

 

 

What Is The Best Type of Aerobic Exercise?

There is no wrong choice. The benefits to your heart are the same as long as you are exercising within the range your doctor or exercise physiologist has prescribed for you.

 

Your aerobic exercise program should have four goals:

1. It is aerobic. It uses large muscle groups repetitively for a sustained amount of time

2. You perform it for 30 to 60 minutes, three to five days a week

3. It meets the cardiovascular goals your doctor or exercise physiologist has prescribed for you

4. It is something you will enjoy doing for an extended period of time

Safety First!

The type of exercise you choose is a personal decision, but you should take certain factors into consideration to reduce the risk of injury or complications and make exercise more enjoyable.

1. Always speak to your doctor first before starting any new exercise program

2. Chose a type of exercise you are more likely to stay with over the long-term

3. Perform your activity at a level in which you can carry on a conversation or speak clearly while exercising. This "talk test" provides a general rule of thumb to help you determine if a particular activity is too strenuous for you. It is especially helpful if you have not been given a "heart rate (pulse) zone" to stay in during exercise.

Exercise Options

The type of exercise you choose is a personal decision, but you should take certain factors into consideration to reduce the risk of injury or complications and make exercise more enjoyable.

Cycling

Cycling is ideal for individuals that due to arthritic or other orthopedic problems are unable to walk for an extended period of time without pain or difficulty. You can use a stationary or regular bike. People with lower-body circulation problems (claudication) who experience significant calf pain during walking usually find cycling less difficult although a monitored walking program may help reduce the claudication . A program that combines walking and cycling may provide cardiovascular benefits without inducing the limiting pain as quickly. Cycling is also a good choice for people who are 50 to 100 pounds overweight. It helps the heart without the mechanical stress on the back, hips, knees and ankles that walking causes. One drawback – if you cycle outdoors, the weather may limit your activity.

Ski Machines, Stair Climbers, Steppers, Ellipticals

These types of machines can provide a good aerobic workout but have many drawbacks. First, exercise on these machines is usually too strenuous to be safe and enjoyable for the beginner or person of low fitness level, even at the lowest settings. To determine if this type of machine is within your capability, give the machine of your choice a trial run at the store or fitness center. You should be able to pass the "talk test" while exercising at a moderate pace. People with knee or hip problems should avoid stair climbers and steppers as these machines put extra stress on these joints. Ski machines require above-average coordination to master. The advantage to the machines is that they are indoor activities that can be pursued regardless of the weather.

Swimming Activities

Swimming is an excellent aerobic exercise, but considerations should be made before starting a program. For the exercise beginner, low-fit, or non-swimmer it might be a difficult activity to maintain for the recommended 30 to 60 minutes. Also, due to the full body motion, one can easily exceed their target heart rate range with swimming. Therefore, those with heart conditions, should address a swimming program with their physician before starting. Water aerobics and water walking are good alternatives for those with joint pain. The buoyancy provided by the water eases stress on the joints.

Jogging, Aerobic Dance

These can be safe and beneficial exercise for the highly fit person. Both can be done indoors, which makes them year-round activities. Anyone with orthopedic problems or who experiences symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath should not engage in these activities.

Find Out The Amazing Health Benefits With Natures Best Acai Berry

May 18, 2009 
Filed under Weight Loss Tips

The Acai berry has been used since centuries in Brazil and other Amazonian countries. People here are extremely healthy, have better stamina and live upto a ripe old age. If you want to experience what real health is all about then natures best Acai berry is the perfect solution.

What It Consists Of

What makes the Acai berry so very popular as a health remedy is its huge concentration of antioxidants. It has 10 times more antioxidant power compared to grapes and twice more what blueberries have. Thus, the Acai berry is one of nature’s most potent remedies against a host of problems. Rich in Omega fatty acids, this berry further proves that they help in building protein levels in the body. Acai berry is rich in vitamins and minerals such as B2, B1, B3, A, E and C. The large fiber content in this berry is good for our digestive system. Most people write-off the Acai berry as being horrible in taste because its health benefits are so many. However, this is far from reality. In truth, the Acai berry has a lovely combination of chocolaty and berry-like flavors, which makes it great to be used in deserts, smoothies or eaten in its natural form.

Powerful Antioxidant

One of the biggest reasons why the Acai burn is so popular is because of its rich concentration in antioxidants. As we all know, antioxidants help neutralize free radicals within the body, flush out deep-seated impurities and promote better health. Acai berries have 10 times more antioxidant power as compared to grapes. They possess twice the amount of antioxidants as found in blueberries. In addition, they also taste great, which means they are the perfect health choice!

How to Consume

Acai berries are available in their natural fresh form, dried or frozen and you can purchase them in the form that you prefer. Many manufacturers also sell Acai burn pills, which are available in capsule form. These are very easy to take provided you incorporate them as part of your regular diet. Acai berry formulae are also available in liquid form, which is great because the body readily absorbs it so you get to see benefits sooner.

Health Benefits

The Acai burn is known to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, increase stamina, fight infections, cancer and arthritis, reduce pains and soreness in the body, improve blood circulation, digestion and libido while also reducing weight. With so many benefits rolled into one berry, it comes as no surprise that the Acai burn is fast becoming the most sought-after supplement among celebrities. Female celebrities love the Acai burn because of its ability to help the body lose weight and promote healthier hair and glowing skin. Since their career depends on their looks, it is no wonder that celebrities are looking for natures best Acai berry through this natural form.

The acai burn reviews has several health benefits it can boast. Get free trial by clicking here : safe weight loss pills.

Yoga is Beneficial for Health

March 24, 2009 
Filed under Indoor Activities.

If you're set on loosing weight and becoming more flexible with yoga
Then this may be the most important letter you'll ever read!

Who Else Wants To Quickly Get Into Shape,

Lose Weight, And Become More 'In Tune' With

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It doesn't matter if you've never exercised a day in your
life, or your the most fit person in the world… This Yoga
guide will help you not only get MORE fit, but make
you feel more energized after each workout!
 

Dear Friend,

Are you planning on getting in shape/fit or simply want to ?  If so, pay attention!

There's finally a new, breakthrough book created just for people just like you!

And, if you really want to get the best results possible without putting in countless hours in at the local gym, then this book is definitely for YOU!

I myself have been doing yoga for 3 years now, but it wasn't easy for me when I first started!  I mean, information on this is pretty hard to come across.  Especially the kind of information I wanted to know more about.  To be quite honest with you, I got tired of looking and searching all over the place, so I decided to create the definitive book on yoga!
 

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This book covers everything there is to know about yoga. In fact, some people have called it the "Beginners Yoga Guide"!

It's like having your very own Yoga expert that you can reference and ask questions anytime that you need to!

You'll uncover a wide array of tips, including interesting facts that made them what they are today!

You're going to discover so many different things on yoga, workouts, stretches and more!  Not only will you find new tips and tricks, but you'll also learn *extra* bonus tips to help you lose weight, get more fit and more… Without spending hours and hours at the gym!
 

Here's Just a "Sneak-Peak" At What You'll
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