Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Love handles: How to Remove and Get Rid of It Once and For All

How to Get Rid of Love Handles or "Belly Fat"

source: freedigitalphotos.net

Got a lot of side baggage? Want to trim down your waistline? Are you ready to lose your love handles once and for all? 

For some reason fats love to accumulate in certain areas of the abdomen. A lot of people find fat in this area very difficult to manage. 

Sadly, people have lots of wrong notion when it comes to losing side flabs. It is important to know which methods are really helpful in making your tummy firm or fit. We do like to get rid of or remove love handles effectively without wasting time and effort. 


Three methods to remove love handles

Fitness trainers would agree that there is no single way of losing fat. We did some research on how to get rid of love handles and we came up with three effective ways. Three is far better than one, and it also bring faster and effective results. Here are the three methods to remove love handles.

1. Do couple of exercises that focus on the obliques

Oblique muscles help us turn and do twisting motions. They are located on either side of the abdomen starting from the waist to hips. Love handles are actually fats that cover the oblique muscles. People believe that ab workouts can burn side flabs but it does not work that way since it target a different group of muscles. 

Focusing on the obliques will tighten the abdominal muscles and reduce belly fat. Recently, the American Council on Exercise highlighted the following exercise for the obliques:

· Captain’s chair
· Bicycle crunch
· Reverse crunch
· Hover
· Vertical leg crunch

The five exercises were found to produce the highest level of activity for the waist and hips. Although you can also try other exercises like wood chopper or side planks. Remember that there is no single exercise that can get rid of fats. So the more oblique exercises you do, the faster you can say goodbye to your love handles. It is likewise important to breathe with every contraction and increase the number of repetitions as your lower abdomen gets stronger.

2. Eat food that lessens belly fat

Food is a major cause of love handles (admit it) and you have to do something about it. Sweets, carbs, and fried foods go directly to your belly, but, and thigh. When you monitor your food intake, belly fat or love handles also goes away. Including fiber in your diet detoxifies fat and other impurities in the abdomen. You can also snack on avocados, yogurt, bananas, and berries. These foods naturally fight off belly fat and overall body fat that could definitely remove and get rid of love handles. 

Protein is also helpful since it stimulates fat-burning and appetite-reducing hormones. You can try protein rich healthy foods like low-fat cheese, chicken, lean meat, eggs, and nuts. We also recommend reducing consumption of alcoholic beverages especially beer.

3. Lose overall fat

When you lose body fat you also lose the love handles this is because body weight is proportional to waist line. Researchers from University of Connecticut say targeted or isolated exercise is not enough. They found out that tennis players have the same amount of fat in their dominant and non-dominant arm.

You can do cardio exercise, strength training, resistance training or high intensity interval training. We recommend five 30-minute cardio exercises in a week. A 10-minute intense training three times a week can also help you remove and get rid of the love handles.


References:

· Perry, E. (2011) Targeted Fat Loss: Myth or Reality? Yale Scientific: The Nation’s Oldest College Science Publication. [Online] Accessed 16 March 2015.
· Turner, N. (2012) Reset Your Hormones to Beat Belly Fat. The Dr. Oz Show. [Online] Accessed 16 March 2015.
· CBSNews. (2011) Eight Delicious Foods That Help Fight Belly Fat. CBSNews. [Online] Accessed 16 March 2015.
· [No Author] (2001) American Council on Exercise (ACE)-sponsored Study Reveals Best and Worst Abdominal Exercises. ACE Fitness: Press Releases. [Online] Accessed 16 March 2015.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Top Five Benefits of Having a Sauna Bath

Benefits of Sauna Bath

Sauna is commonly used for relaxation or a recreational activity during winter. Ever since then many health benefits of sauna bathing emerged. It uses the concept of gentle and persistent heat to promote overall wellbeing. People use sauna for different reasons, and most probably those reasons are for a good cause. Learn the different benefits of sauna and have more reasons why you should have a sauna bath.


source: freedigitalphotos.net

Why you should have a sauna bath once in a while

1. Relieves stress

Stressors in life harm both mental and physical health resulting to anxiety, depression, or disease. This is why most people use sauna as a relaxation technique to relieve stress. It is the most common and immediate benefit of using sauna. The quiet and warm space clears the mind from any distraction and gives you more time to focus on yourself. It promotes mental health effectively that it even promotes quality of sleep.

2. Detoxification

Detoxification is one of the benefits of sauna because it produces sweat by opening the pores and promoting vasodilation. Sweating is a natural process where the body releases heat and accumulated toxins. You actually sweat out what you don’t need like fat and harmful chemicals.

3. Relaxes the muscles

This is one popular reason why people use sauna after a workout. Heat promotes vasodilation and blood circulation. As the body temperature increase, blood circulation gets even better. More oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the muscles causing relaxation. Heat also stimulates the release of endorphins which produces a natural tranquilizing effect to the muscles.

4. Relieves almost all body pain

Heat is a natural remedy to diffuse any kind of pain because of vasodilation. When blood vessels are dilated the body becomes less sensitive to painful stimuli. Heat also enhances the healing process of the body. This is the reason why health professionals recommend hot compress for wounds.

5. Promotes weight loss

Weight loss is another benefit of sauna. The persistent heat generated from sauna increases the body’s core temperature. The principle of metabolism is based on thermogenesis. Increased body temperature also increases metabolic processes in the body.

Some would not believe that sauna promotes weight loss, but they cannot explain why the heart rate increases. Perspiration and increased heart rate are actually signs of increased metabolic processes. The effect of sauna is like a mild exercise where you burn 350-500 calories in one session.


Tips to maximize the benefits of your sauna bath:

  • During a sauna bath, brush the skin on your belly, thigh, and arms using upward strokes. This stimulates the pores to open more and further improves blood circulation.
  • Drink plenty of water before and after your sauna bath. Also, don’t go into the sauna after a heavy meal.
  • The best time for sauna is late in the evening. It is also better to use sauna after exercise or playing sports.
  • Clothes decrease the effectiveness of the sauna bath, so don’t hesitate to go with less – it’s more effective.
  • Shower after 10-15 minutes or as necessary to help you cool down. Have a cool shower after to close your pores. Don’t use soap initially because it may clog the pores.
  • Rest after your sauna session and let your body adjust with the change in temperature.

Safety Precautions:

There are benefits of a sauna bath but there are also precautions needed. Spend less time in the sauna if you have a medical condition. People with hypertension, congestive heart failure, and chronic health problems are allowed to use the sauna for a maximum of 15 minutes only. It is safe to use sauna for 15-20 minutes but don’t go more than 30 minutes because it will make you lose more water and electrolytes. People are also advised to avoid drinking alcohol before entering the sauna. Most sauna adverse events are associated with alcohol consumption.

How to Get Rid of Stubborn Callus

Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Calluses for Good

Calluses are patches of hard and dead skin usually noted at the surface of the toes. Ignoring them might lead to bigger problems like pain and irritation. If you want to remove and get rid of calluses for good then you're reading the right article. People develop calluses when they expose their feet to constant pressure and friction. Using tight footwear causes too much friction, while heavy footwear increases the pressure around the skin.

There are people who are more prone to have calluses because of their work or lifestyle. Calluses initially form that develops into corns with prolonged trauma to the skin. Luckily, there are proven effective remedies to cure them. People can choose from different methods to get rid of these stubborn corns or calluses. We do recommend starting with natural remedies first before considering extreme procedures.


source: freedigitalimages.net

Easy remedies to get rid of callus & corn:

1. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar or any kind of vinegar could also get rid of calluses because of its acidic content. Soak a cotton ball into the vinegar and apply it over the hard skin patches. Wrap it with gauze or a clean fabric and let it stay overnight. The following day, rub the corn away using a pumice stone.

There is also an alternative method if you’re not comfortable sleeping with vinegar on your toes. Mix one cup of apple cider vinegar and soap in a basin of hot water. Soak your feet for at least 15 minutes and file the callus or corn with pumice stone. This should remove the corn after 10 days of treatment.

2. Vitamin A or E

These vitamins rebuild the skin by removing dead skin cells and restoring skin health. Vitamin A is also used for the treatment of acne and other skin problems. Use vitamin A or E capsules for a sufficient and effective dose. Prick or cut the capsule to release the oil content. Before going to bed, rub the oil into the callus and cover with a cotton sock. Do this every night until the callus disappears.

3.Castor oil and plain pads

Castor oil is also a popular remedy to naturally get rid of and remove calluses. Dab a few drops of castor oil over the corn and place a pad around the callus. You will need an O-shaped corn pad to let the castor oil stay. If necessary, you can cover the pad with an adhesive tape to keep it from moving.

4. Lemon paste

Make a lemon paste and apply it over the corn as needed. Lemon also has an acidic content which can help soften hard patches of skin. Olive oil is used to moisturize the skin and enhance the effect of lemon. Baking soda is added to the paste for gentle skin exfoliation.

How to make a lemon paste:
Mix lemon juice with 2 teaspoon of olive oil. Gradually add baking soda until a paste is formed. Apply the paste over the corn and cover it with gauze or a thin fabric.


5. Salicylic acid medicated pads


Pads alone are great but using over the counter medication for callus is better. There are lots of medicated pads available in local stores that contain salicylic acid. The medication works by softening the patches of hard and dead skin.

Salicylic acid is recommended since it is inexpensive and easy to apply. It is also less painful that other methods. Medicated pads direct the salicylic acid to the corn. It reduces the risk of irritating healthy skin surrounding the callus.


How to prevent further callus formation

The things mentioned are the easy and natural ways on how to remove calluses. To maximize the treatment, use cotton socks and a proper fitting footwear. If you go to the gym, use footwear with enough cushions. The type of shoes will also depend on your activity. The footwear for basketball players is different from runners or hikers. Proper fitting shoes do not mean it has to be exact, it means giving enough space for the toes. Medical advice is recommended for persistent or repeated callus.




Reference:

· Salicylic Acid for Calluses and Corns. Web MD. [Online] Accessed 17 March 2015.
· Laliberte, M. 8 Reliable Home Remedies for Corns and Calluses. Reader’s Digest. [Online] Accessed 17 March 2015.



Monday, November 16, 2015

Top Five Benefits of Being a Vegetarian

Top five fun benefits of being a vegetarian.

Source: freedigitalphotos.net

People are being curious why a lot of people including celebrities are going vegetarian. There are great advantages and fun benefits of being a vegetarian. There's basically more than just having a healthy weight and body. Eat healthy and enjoy these health benefits.

Benefits of being a vegetarian


1. Having a healthy and fit body weight.

Munch on fresh veggies and you’ll surely have a lower body weight. Grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, and other vegetarian food do not contain fat. In the other hand, meat products contain saturated fats, triglycerides and cholesterol. Several studies have shown that vegetarians lose weight and maintain a healthy body as they get older. Switching to vegetarianism can trim down body weight for as early as 10 days.


2. Vegies are energy boosters.

Whole grains, vegetables, legumes and fruits are rich sources of complex carbohydrates, providing energy stores for a longer time. These foods are also rich in fibers that are able to detoxify the body and eliminate toxins. Vitamins and minerals are obtained from a nutritious food group that boosts energy throughout the day.


3. Vegetarians have better mood.

A study was made on 2012 where the participants were divided into three categories: all meat diet, fish only diet, and the vegetarian diet. Results show that people on the vegetarian diet have testified improvement in their mood.


4. Having lesser risks of developing diseases.

Meat contains saturated fats, triglycerides, and cholesterol which make people at risk of developing hypertension, cardiac problems, and stroke. There are also a lot of food-borne diseases that are acquired through meat intake. The vegetarian diet is rich in fiber that is why vegetarians are exempted from having gastric cancer.


5. Being able to enjoy more years.

This is the long term benefit of consuming vegetables and healthy food. This is because vegetables help fight diseases. Vegetarians also have a better quality of life because they have the lowest risk of developing diseases. Mood improvement is also experienced by a vegetarian that is why they can have a fun, healthy, and longer life.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

The Harmful Effects of Skipping Meals for Weight loss


The Effects of Skipping Meals

Most people choose to skip meals in order to lose weight. Meal alternatives are safe for as long as you put something in your stomach but never go on a day without even eating a single meal ever! Skipping meals involves the famous yo-yo diet where people don't eat meals in order to lose weight. There are various harmful effects noted when you skip meals and it does cause rebound weight gain. Know the harmful effects of skipping meals before you it's too late for your health.


Source: freedigitalphotos.net 


The harmful effects of Yo-Yo dieting illustrated

Malnutrition like overweight and obesity are part of the current issues faced by the society today. The world has set a standard that the being skinny is more accepted and more beautiful. That is the reason why many people are dieting just to lose weight. Advertisements and endorsements make the yo-yo diet look so effective and easy. What the audience fail to see are the risks that accompanies the yo-yo diet. I have tried the famous yo-yo diet before; it gave me peptic ulcer disease and more weight gain. Here are some friendly reminders to avoid being a victim of this fad diet.


1. Skipping meals can cause diseases

People who do the yo-yo diet are not eating in a healthy way. Frequent skipping of meals will lead to diseases like ulcer formation, anemia, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. Inadequate intake of nutritious food will likewise cause the cells to starve rendering the body vulnerable to infection and disease.

2. Starving yourself will increase your food intake.

The body needs food so that it can function well. The brain is responsible for detecting low glucose levels in the body. This is a normal mechanism of the body to prevent hypoglycemia. When the body is starving, the brain will send a signal to the stomach to release high amounts of Ghrelin, a hormone which initiates meal and increases appetite. Food intake will consequently increase due to the effect of the hormone.


3. Yo-yo diet brings a rebound effect.

Starvation will cause the cells to shrink, which will get bigger after food intake. It becomes a cycle of shrinking and enlarging of fat cells within the body. Research has proved that starvation will not eliminate or destroy fat cells. The problem with yo-yo diet is that the body will demand for more calories to compensate for the meals that were skipped. This will make the person gain more weight compared to what was lost.



There's nothing wrong with wanting to have a normal and healthy weight. But be sure that the weight loss method you choose is one that is effective and safe for your overall health.

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Top Seven Herbs with Healing Properties


Top Seven Herbs with Healing Properties

Herbs have long been a part of our society and are used as ingredients and as a part of natural alternative medicine. According to several studies and researches there are herbs that are more superior than others because of its noted healing properties. There were seven herbs ranked to be at the top of natural alternative medicine. These seven herbs cover almost all of the common illnesss and disease condition. Read through the article to know more about these seven powerful herbs.


Herbs to add in your grocery list:

1. Turmeric powder

Image source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Turmeric powder has been featured as one of the world's healthiest foods. It contains vitamins and minerals that can boost your immune system and enhance other enzymatic processes in the body. It also has ingredients that can protect the heart and reduce blood cholesterol.

Turmeric powder has an active component known as Curcumin. This active ingredient basically works in the body as a potent anti-inflammatory ingredient that is why it could effectively reduce inflammation in Arthritis and Colon Cancer. Curcumin was also found to be useful in Alzheimer's disease since it promotes the removal of brain plaques.

It is popularly used as an ingredient in curry, while others try to incorporate it to their drink.You could also do the same and try this powerful herb. However, I do advise to use in small amounts first because using too much turmeric powder all at once could cause hyperacidic symptoms.

2. Cinnamon

source: freedigitalphotos.net
Cinnamon is also included as one of the top herbs with healing properties. It is easy available in the market plus it contains a lot of vitamins and minerals that could help boost the immune system. It has active ingredients that help clean the body system and regulate processes. It is basically used to add flavor in beverages and in pastries. 

One of the most claimed therapeutic use of cinnamon is its ability to lower blood sugar levels. That is why a lot of health experts recommended its use for people living with diabetes. It has a sweet and distinct taste that could substitute sugar. In addition, other studies also show that cinnamon could also lower down blood cholesterol levels in moderate amounts.

3. Ginger

source: freedigitalphotos.net

Ginger is a widely distributed natural medicine that is easily bought in grocery stores. Ginger is very potent in curing nausea and vomiting. Ginger is very effective in curing and preventing gastric diseases. Different causes of stomach upset like motion sickness and vomiting can be cured by ginger. Ginger is a very potent antioxidant that can soothe and calm the lining of the stomach. Ginger is a wonder medicine for stomach upset that can also reduce blood pressure and joint problems.

4. Rosemary

source: freedigitalphotos.net
Rosemary is popular for its anticarcinogenic properties. Rosemary contains natural phytochemicals that can fight off cancer cells. It is a widely studied herb used for the management of cancer. Because of its high levels of phytochemicals and antioxidants, it can cure and even prevent the formation of cancer. The herb is most widely used as a spice but could also be incorporated in aromatherapy.


5. Holy Basil

source: freedigitalphotos.net
Basil is found in various areas of the world and is probably one of the herbs that is easily accessible. Holy basil is very popular for fighting off stress. Basil can treat indigestion and headache especially those that are caused by stress. 

Aside from that, Holy basil can also stop the formation of breast cancer in female patients. It is also found to contain different vitamins and minerals, but is more popurlalry known to contain high amounts of vitamin K. Vitamin K is an important cofactor for the formation of blood clots in the body. That is the reason why it can help in the wound healing, bleeding and other clotting disorders.

Other studies show that Basil is also effective in curing symptoms of dizziness and light headedness. This is truly a wonder herb that can cure a lot of disease and relieve various symptoms. The leaves of Holy Basil are commonly used as a spice in different dishes like pesto and pizza for example. You could also incorporate it in your meals to get the different health benefits from the herb.

6. Ginger

source: freedigitalphotos.net
Garlic is one of the most widely used herb in the kitchen but most people are still not aware of its healing properties. According to studies, the increased consumption of garlic can decrease the risk of having colon and ovarian cancer. It can even stop the formation and growth of cancer tissues in the body. 

In addition, it is also rich in phytochemicals, specifically Allicin, which can lower down blood pressure. That is the reason why moderate consumption of garlic protects the heart and prevents the occurrence of heart attack and stroke. With these combined, it makes garlic one of the most powerful herb and is a must have ingredient in your grocery list.


7. St. John’s Wort

This natural medicine is widely known for its ability to combat anxiety and relieve symptoms of depression. St John’s Wort is a wonder medicine that can calm the mind without causing harmful side effects. St. John’s Wort can also cure insomnia and other sleeping disorders due to its relaxing and calming effect to the brain. St. John’s Wort is a very effective natural medicine for curing mood and sleep disturbances.

Conclusion

Health experts recommend the use of turmeric powder, cinnamon, ginger, holy basil, rosemary, garlic, and St. John's Wort for various illness and disease condition. Having these seven powerful herbs in your kitchen could make a lot of difference in your health and in your family's health as well.

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

5 Foods Proven to Boost Metabolism

Food that Naturally Increase Metabolism

Image Source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Metabolism pertains to all of the chemical reactions that occur in the body. There are various reasons that can slow down or speed up one's metabolic rate. What most people go for, is a faster metabolism because it is known to aid and support any weight loss program.
There are several ways of speeding up the body’s metabolism. Exercise has the most dramatic effect on a person's metabolic rate.  However, you can also try other options like the diet-induced thermogenesis if you don't have time for a workout program. Food intake also has a certain effect to the body's metabolism.

Five foods that boost metabolism

After eating a meal, there will be a natural increase in the metabolic rate. This occurs because of chemical processes and heat production involved with digestion, absorption, and storage. Food intake is a dynamic factor that directly increases metabolism.
This is the reason why people who skip meals will eventually have a slower metabolism because they eliminate this dynamic process. Instead of skipping meals, try these food and drinks that can naturally increase metabolism.

1. Caffeine

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There are lots of  clinical trials showing that caffeine does affect the body's metabolism. According to a recent study conducted, people who drank caffeinated beverages had a higher metabolic rate than those who drank decaf.
Coffee offers a maximum of 16% increase in the body’s metabolic rate because of its stimulatory effect  to the sympathetic nervous system. Keep in mind that the caffeine I am referring to are those contained in coffee beans and not the instant coffee version. Also don’t splurge on frappe and other drinks with added sugar and whip cream.

2. Protein

After eating a meal loaded with protein, the metabolic rate naturally increase after one hour. The effect of protein to metabolism can reach a maximum of 30% above the normal. A protein meal can effectively boost your metabolism which can last for 3 - 12 hours.
3. Cinnamon
Image Source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Cinnamon is not just a regular spice, it can also help you lose more weight and increase your metabolism. It works by directly affecting the regulation of insulin in your body. Insulin is the hormone which influences the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates. During the process, it also increases the body’s metabolic rate and energy expenditure. One-fourth to one teaspoon of cinnamon can significantly increase your metabolism by 20 percent.

4. Green Tea
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that reduce free radicals in the body. It also contains catechin which is the active ingredient that is responsible in boosting metabolism. Nutritionists explain that catechin works by promoting fat oxidation and enhancing thermogenesis. It also helps promote and maintain weight loss by improving digestion. Drinking three cups of green tea can boost metabolism by 10 percent.
5. Red Chili Pepper
Image Source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Red chili pepper and ginger are spices that can speed up metabolism. According to the New York Times, red chili pepper contains capsaicin; this chemical component of chili generates heat in the body. Eating a spicy meal can naturally increase metabolism by eight percent.

One Canadian research claim that appetizers with hot sauce results to fewer food intake throughout the day. This was due to the effect of capsaicin in prolonging one's satiety. Do take caution when eating spicy foods especially on an empty stomach, since it can worsen heartburn and ulcer symptoms.

Summary

Those are the top five foods that can naturally burn fat and boost metabolism. Keep in mind that metabolism is affected by different factors. It is also important to seek expert/medical advice before starting any diet program.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Natural Remedies for Ovarian Cyst

10 Natural Remedies for Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian Cyst Overview

Ovarian cysts are abnormal tissue growths occurring in one or both ovaries. They resemble fluid filled sacs that can have different size. Although most of the ovarian cysts tend to resolve spontaneously, some of the ovarian cysts persist through time causing signs and symptoms. In some patients, their ovarian cyst can become so large that it causes ovarian torsion.
Persistently large ovarian cysts can also cause compressive symptoms to the adjacent organs like the bowel and bladder. Large ovarian cysts are prone to rupture causing severe ovarian damage. There are various natural treatments for ovarian cyst offering relief of symptoms.

Image source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Natural Remedies for Ovarian Cyst

1. Watchful Waiting
Ovarian cysts that are diagnosed are mostly benign conditions. Most ovarian cysts would resolve spontaneously with few signs and symptoms. Thus waiting for the ovarian cyst to naturally disappear is an acceptable treatment option. Watchful waiting is termed as a treatment hoping that the ovarian cyst will disappear through time. Medical treatment is advised for enlarging ovarian cyst occurring for more than three months. Watchful waiting requires constant monitoring of the ovarian cyst.
2. Herbal Teas
Herbal teas provide a lot of therapeutic benefits to the body. Herbal teas contain xanthine substances which produces a relaxing and soothing effect. Herbal teas can calm the body thereby relieving pain and discomfort. Herbal teas are also natural antioxidants which improve blood circulation and enhance elimination of toxin from the body. Regular intake of herbal tea can help in treating the ovarian cyst naturally.
3. Warm Compress.
Warm compress are widely known to relieve symptoms of pain and discomfort caused by ovarian cyst. Warm compress improves blood circulation to the painful area by dilating the blood vessels. Warm compress successfully lessen inflammation in the affected area. It enhances the disappearance of the ovarian cyst and improves the healing process of the ovaries. A warm bath or a hot shower can also help in treating the ovarian cyst naturally.

4. Eat foods rich in fiber
Changes in the diet can relieve the signs and symptoms of ovarian cyst. A high fiber diet is encouraged for women with ovarian cysts. Fiber has the ability to attract toxins from the body. A low fat diet is also preferred for women with ovarian cysts. Processed food should be eliminated in the diet.
You should also have adequate food intake to help cleanse the body of certain impurities that contributes to the ovarian cyst. Other studies have shown that a vegetarian diet can shrink the ovarian cyst.

5. Therapeutic oils and massage.
There are various herbal oils in the market that can help treat the ovarian cyst naturally. Herbs can either be ingested or applied topically to the affected area. Herbal oils are used to massage the affected area in the ovaries. Massage needs a certain amount of pressure that can relieve the signs and symptoms of ovarian cysts. Too much pressure is not recommended because it could worsen the pain.
Massaging the area has a calming and relaxing effect to the body that can reduce inflammatory processes. The therapeutic effect of massage in the body can enhance blood circulation and elimination of toxins from the body. Further, massage provides therapeutic warmth that can help treat the ovarian cyst naturally.

6. Maintain a healthy weight
Women who are obese or overweight have a high production of estrogen because of the excessive fat synthesis in the body. Increased estrogen production causes abnormality in the hormonal balance between estrogen and progesterone. Women should have a body weight that is within normal range to maintain the balance between estrogen and progesterone. Weight loss is a helpful natural remedy for obese women with ovarian cyst.
7. Vitamins and food supplements
Vitamins can also help the body eliminate the ovarian cyst. Diindolylmethane supplement is a natural remedy that is readily available and accessible in the market. Vitamins and supplements like Diindolylmethane works by maintaining the balance between estrogen and progesterone within the body. Diindolylmethane has the ability to dissolve and eliminate excessive levels of estrogen. Vitamins and food supplements are also found in nutritious foods. Fruits and vegetables can also prevent the formation of ovarian cysts in the future.
8. Choose organic dairy products
Meat from chicken and cows are usually injected with exogenous estrogen. Eating chicken and cow meat will result to cumulative buildup of excess estrogen that can cause the formation of an ovarian cyst. Organic dairy products like milk, cheese, and meat are preferred to avoid ingesting excessive estrogen. Increased growth hormones in the body will likewise cause ovarian cyst development because it has the same structure with estrogen.
9. Avoid soy and soy derivatives
Soy derived products are rich in phytoestrogen, an exogenous source of excess estrogen. After phytoestrogen is absorbed in the body, it will be synthesized and broken down to more estrogen. Eating soy derived products will increase the levels of estrogen in the body that can cause the development of ovarian cyst.
10. Use proper food storage
Avoid using containers or food storages that are made up of plastic. Plastic in food storages contain several harmful chemicals that have the same structure with estrogen. Avoiding food containers made of plastic will lessen the risk of ovarian cyst development. Chemicals contained in the plastic act as an artificial estrogen which is harmful for the ovaries. Avoiding plastic containers is a natural remedy to treat and prevent ovarian cysts.

Monday, May 11, 2015

How to Maintain Weight Loss

How to maintain weight loss

Trying to lose weight is already a struggle to go through, especially for a lot of people. Either people don't get effective results or they regain the weight. What most people don't seem to understand is that maintaining weight loss is a different process. The body's metabolism slows down after you have lost weight, it is an adverse effect and a compensatory mechanism. 



Image source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Reasons why people cannot maintain weight loss

Our eating behavior is difficult to change and most people would go back to their unhealthy eating habits after they have reached their target weight. This is one reason why people gain kilos after dieting.
Aside from the psychological aspect, the body also compensate with the significant loss in weight. The body adapts to your new body weight by slowing down your metabolism to protect the body from losing too much weight. 


Isocaloric low-fat diet maintains weight loss

A study published in the Journal of American Medical Association stated that an isocaloric low-fat diet is effective in maintain weight loss. Author Cara explains that people should follow the recommended caloric intake especially after losing weight. Avoid going back to your old eating habit because it will lead to rebound weight gain. The result of the study showed that an isocaloric low-fat diet for one month can prolong your weight loss.

Isocaloric low-fat diet means that people can eat equal amounts of calories from carbohydrate and protein. To follow this diet you need to allot 40% calories from carbohydrates, 40% from proteins, and 20% from fats. This calorie distribution is basically hassle-free and easy to follow.

It also allows your body to recover from the severe food restriction. A lot of articles talk about how to start a diet program but only few would actually inform dieters on how to properly end the program. In exercise, there is a "cool down" phase to let the muscle cope with the workout. Dieting is the same, you also need to follow a regimen which allows your body to adjust with your new weight. 


Image source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net