Showing posts with label Diet Benefits. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Diet Benefits. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Good Health From a Potassium-Rich Diet

Life would be impossible without potassium, because it is a part of every single cell in your body. However, most people take potassium for granted and don't give it another thought when planning their diet. Despite the fact that it helps retain fluid balance, and helps your brain, heart, nerves, and muscles to function normally, millions of people each year fall short on their potassium intake, sometimes without even knowing it until a chronic condition occurs as a result. Suffering from potassium depletion can jeopardize long-term health in many ways.

Potassium in the diet helps to lower blood pressure, thereby lessening the chance for stroke and heart disease. The way in which potassium helps is by making arteries more flexible, and helping the body eliminate excess sodium. Sodium promotes retention of fluid, which may cause high blood pressure. Potassium also may bolster stronger bones by guarding against bone loss, and it also helps lower the risk of kidney stones.

Experts suggest that as a part of a balanced diet, adults should ingest 4,700 milligrams of potassium each day. But average intake on the whole is lower for Americans; men average about 3,200 milligrams per day, and women, only 2,400 milligrams. Many people don't get enough potassium because they rely on convenience and restaurant foods, and they don't eat enough fruits and vegetables. Home cooking can destroy potassium benefits in produce, because boiling removes significant amounts of potassium. For example, a baked potato has about twice the potassium of a boiled potato. So to get the most amount of potassium from vegetables, eat them raw, or roast or lightly steam them. When eating out, you can increase your intake of potassium by ordering a salad, steamed vegetables, fruit cups, and dishes with beans.

Some of the best food sources of potassium are also some of the most delicious foods available. The best sources, in order of potassium levels, are:
  • Winter squash (butternut, acorn, etc.)
  • Sweet potatoes and white potatoes
  • White beans, canned or fresh, and lentils
  • Yogurt
  • Orange juice
  • Halibut, salmon, and tuna
  • Broccoli
  • Cantaloupe and bananas
  • Pork tenderloin
  • Pistachios and raisins
Potassium levels in the body are linked to several internal processes such as kidney function, hormonal changes, and prescription medications. Because of these outside influences, sometimes people may not be able to get enough potassium from diet alone. In such cases, there are potassium supplements and mineral-rich multivitamins that can be taken to increase your potassium intake to appropriate levels.

One of the keys to improving your health may be as simple as grabbing a piece of fresh fruit or a salad rather than a candy bar or bag of chips. The next time you have regular blood work done, ask your doctor to check your potassium level to be sure you are getting enough. If your longevity depends on your diet, then eat up - as long as you're eating potassium-rich foods.

Good Health From a Potassium-Rich Diet

Life would be impossible without potassium, because it is a part of every single cell in your body. However, most people take potassium for granted and don't give it another thought when planning their diet. Despite the fact that it helps retain fluid balance, and helps your brain, heart, nerves, and muscles to function normally, millions of people each year fall short on their potassium intake, sometimes without even knowing it until a chronic condition occurs as a result. Suffering from potassium depletion can jeopardize long-term health in many ways.

Potassium in the diet helps to lower blood pressure, thereby lessening the chance for stroke and heart disease. The way in which potassium helps is by making arteries more flexible, and helping the body eliminate excess sodium. Sodium promotes retention of fluid, which may cause high blood pressure. Potassium also may bolster stronger bones by guarding against bone loss, and it also helps lower the risk of kidney stones.

Experts suggest that as a part of a balanced diet, adults should ingest 4,700 milligrams of potassium each day. But average intake on the whole is lower for Americans; men average about 3,200 milligrams per day, and women, only 2,400 milligrams. Many people don't get enough potassium because they rely on convenience and restaurant foods, and they don't eat enough fruits and vegetables. Home cooking can destroy potassium benefits in produce, because boiling removes significant amounts of potassium. For example, a baked potato has about twice the potassium of a boiled potato. So to get the most amount of potassium from vegetables, eat them raw, or roast or lightly steam them. When eating out, you can increase your intake of potassium by ordering a salad, steamed vegetables, fruit cups, and dishes with beans.

Some of the best food sources of potassium are also some of the most delicious foods available. The best sources, in order of potassium levels, are:
  • Winter squash (butternut, acorn, etc.)
  • Sweet potatoes and white potatoes
  • White beans, canned or fresh, and lentils
  • Yogurt
  • Orange juice
  • Halibut, salmon, and tuna
  • Broccoli
  • Cantaloupe and bananas
  • Pork tenderloin
  • Pistachios and raisins
Potassium levels in the body are linked to several internal processes such as kidney function, hormonal changes, and prescription medications. Because of these outside influences, sometimes people may not be able to get enough potassium from diet alone. In such cases, there are potassium supplements and mineral-rich multivitamins that can be taken to increase your potassium intake to appropriate levels.

One of the keys to improving your health may be as simple as grabbing a piece of fresh fruit or a salad rather than a candy bar or bag of chips. The next time you have regular blood work done, ask your doctor to check your potassium level to be sure you are getting enough. If your longevity depends on your diet, then eat up - as long as you're eating potassium-rich foods.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Jenny Craig Diet

Jenny Craig weight management program was launched way back in 1983 in Australia. It came to the US a little later, in 1985. Jenny Craig weight management program offers a 3 step guide to losing weight and staying healthy. The program is conducted in two different ways, physically, through their 650 centers around the world, and through telephonic support through their 24/7 Jenny Direct program. This is a helpline for those members who cannot be physically present. The Jenny Direct program offers advice, consultation, motivation to the members through telephone and mails. Let us see what is the Jenny Craig diet planand how it works in reality.

Jenny Craig Diet

Jenny Craig weight loss diet works at three levels, food, mind and body. In the first phase of the program the person is encouraged to eat smaller, healthier portions of food. In the second phase, he is motivated to increase his energy levels, whereas in the third phase, the members are advised regarding maintenance of overall physical and maintain health. The program helps the members in weight loss, or rather, maintaining a healthy weight. Support is available to members in various forms. Jenny Craig centers offer seminar, lectures to the members, throughout the program. The same consultation can be offered to distant members either online or through telephone. The program also comes with a guide, complete with Jenny Craig diet recipes to assist members at every phase.

Jenny Craig Foods

Jenny Craig program is inclusive of prepackaged meals, which are delivered to every members doorstep. Jenny Craig foods come in frozen form, and include 60% carbohydrates, 20% protein and 20% fat. In the first phase of the program the member completely relies on the Jenny Craig menu for their daily nourishment. However, a person is also encouraged to eat fresh fruits, low starch vegetables and low fat dairy products. In the second phase, the person is slowly weaned from Jenny Craig diet. This is called as transition phase and it lasts for 4 weeks. During this period the person can indulge in other foods, however he must still stick to small portions. Surprisingly, even greasy foods like French fries can be consumed in the transition phase. After this phase, the person goes back to his normal diet, along with exercises.

Jenny Craig Diet: Pros and Cons

Jenny Craig is a clinically tested and approved weight loss program, the biggest advantage of this program is that the members are relieved from cooking their meals and counting calories. The diet plan is customized to suit every member's needs. Besides, it also offers a wide variety in terms of menu. The program guides the members on how, and what, to eat in a restaurant. The members need not give up their favorite foods, as the whole principle of this program revolves around eating in moderation and not on eating exclusively healthy foods. Also, the members are allowed to occasionally indulge themselves.

Some of the pitfalls of these program include the inability of dieters to stick to small portions when they resume their normal diet. People feel that eating normal food is far different than eating prepackaged portions, as normal food does not come in such small packets. Low calorie food may leave the dieters hungry and low on energy. Also, many people altogether hate eating frozen foods, and the taste of the food may not go down well with everyone. The program does not offer special diet menu for vegans. The most important drawback is Jenny Craig diet cost. Jenny Craig cost is far more than other weight loss programs.

Jenny Craig diet reviews can be found on the official website for Jenny Craig. The membership subscription can be made through this website. You can also get various offers and Jenny Craig coupons on the web.

Jenny Craig Diet

Jenny Craig weight management program was launched way back in 1983 in Australia. It came to the US a little later, in 1985. Jenny Craig weight management program offers a 3 step guide to losing weight and staying healthy. The program is conducted in two different ways, physically, through their 650 centers around the world, and through telephonic support through their 24/7 Jenny Direct program. This is a helpline for those members who cannot be physically present. The Jenny Direct program offers advice, consultation, motivation to the members through telephone and mails. Let us see what is the Jenny Craig diet planand how it works in reality.

Jenny Craig Diet

Jenny Craig weight loss diet works at three levels, food, mind and body. In the first phase of the program the person is encouraged to eat smaller, healthier portions of food. In the second phase, he is motivated to increase his energy levels, whereas in the third phase, the members are advised regarding maintenance of overall physical and maintain health. The program helps the members in weight loss, or rather, maintaining a healthy weight. Support is available to members in various forms. Jenny Craig centers offer seminar, lectures to the members, throughout the program. The same consultation can be offered to distant members either online or through telephone. The program also comes with a guide, complete with Jenny Craig diet recipes to assist members at every phase.

Jenny Craig Foods

Jenny Craig program is inclusive of prepackaged meals, which are delivered to every members doorstep. Jenny Craig foods come in frozen form, and include 60% carbohydrates, 20% protein and 20% fat. In the first phase of the program the member completely relies on the Jenny Craig menu for their daily nourishment. However, a person is also encouraged to eat fresh fruits, low starch vegetables and low fat dairy products. In the second phase, the person is slowly weaned from Jenny Craig diet. This is called as transition phase and it lasts for 4 weeks. During this period the person can indulge in other foods, however he must still stick to small portions. Surprisingly, even greasy foods like French fries can be consumed in the transition phase. After this phase, the person goes back to his normal diet, along with exercises.

Jenny Craig Diet: Pros and Cons

Jenny Craig is a clinically tested and approved weight loss program, the biggest advantage of this program is that the members are relieved from cooking their meals and counting calories. The diet plan is customized to suit every member's needs. Besides, it also offers a wide variety in terms of menu. The program guides the members on how, and what, to eat in a restaurant. The members need not give up their favorite foods, as the whole principle of this program revolves around eating in moderation and not on eating exclusively healthy foods. Also, the members are allowed to occasionally indulge themselves.

Some of the pitfalls of these program include the inability of dieters to stick to small portions when they resume their normal diet. People feel that eating normal food is far different than eating prepackaged portions, as normal food does not come in such small packets. Low calorie food may leave the dieters hungry and low on energy. Also, many people altogether hate eating frozen foods, and the taste of the food may not go down well with everyone. The program does not offer special diet menu for vegans. The most important drawback is Jenny Craig diet cost. Jenny Craig cost is far more than other weight loss programs.

Jenny Craig diet reviews can be found on the official website for Jenny Craig. The membership subscription can be made through this website. You can also get various offers and Jenny Craig coupons on the web.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

3 day Tuna Diet Menu

If you eat fish, then you must surely be knowing the importance, more precisely, the nutritional value of tuna fish. Tuna fish is known to be very high in proteins and being an oily fish naturally, owes to the high levels of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids present in it. Tuna is also rich in many other vitamins and phosphorus. It is a healthy diet choice since it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improves brain function and more recently, helps weight loss. Canned tuna is very popular in market and a good source to get tuna fish, easily. One would not believe that a 3 day diet menu can work? But tuna fish diet helps you lose 3 pounds in 3 days if one follows it regularly in that format. The 3 day tuna diet menu is a 3 day fad diets, as you'd expect, but it does not require you to exclusively eat tuna for the three days. It works because it consists of a low fat diet plan and involves minimum salt intake.



3 day Tuna Diet Plan

Day One
Breakfast: One cup black tea or coffee, half cup grapefruit/orange juice or any fruit juice, one slice toast smeared with peanut.
Lunch: Tuna (100-150 gms), one slice toast, one cup black coffee or tea.
Dinner: Broiled meat (100 gms), green beans, carrots (200 gms), vanilla ice cream/frozen yogurt (100 ml), one medium sized apple, one cup black coffee or tea or water.

Day Two
Breakfast: One cup black tea or coffee, one boiled egg, one slice toast, a banana.
Lunch: Tuna (200 gms), 5 saltine crackers, one cup black coffee or tea or water.
Dinner: 2 slices of beef (200 gms) or hot dogs, carrots/beets (100 gms), one banana, broccoli or cabbage (200 gms), Vanilla ice cream (50 ml), one cup black coffee or tea.

Day Three
Breakfast: One cup black tea or coffee, 5 saltine crackers, cheddar cheese (30 oz.) (a replacement for tuna), one medium sized apple.
Lunch: One egg cooked in a steep, one slice toast, one cup black coffee or tea.
Dinner: Tuna (200 gms), Carrots (100 gms), Cauliflower (100 gms), melon (100 gms), Vanilla ice cream (50 ml), one cup black coffee or tea.

Day Fourth-Seventh
  • You can resume your daily diet to complete a weeks' diet plan, but do not overeat. You can alternatively continue the 3 day tuna diet menu, if you wish to.
  • Addition of herbs, salt pepper, lemon, cooking spray, vinegar, soy sauce, mustard or ketchup to the foods will make your taste buds feel better since you might get bored of eating the same stuff again and again.
  • Drinking 4 glasses of water or diet soda with the 3 day diet plan is recommended.
  • This plan is flexible so you can replace foods according to your convenience and choice.
3 day Tuna Diet Reviews

Does the 3 day tuna diet really work? Well, the 3 day diet reviews claim that the 3 day tuna diet menu is effective in losing 10 pounds in 3 days, which is highly impractical, honestly since no testimonials have been recorded on the net proving this statement. Also, one has to remember that this one's a fad diet which leaves the dieter cranky and hungry rather than being satisfied. Also, the whole day calorie intake is less than 1000 calories which is not enough for any individual. The fact is that, when people go on a low carbohydrate diet they can create an adverse affect on their normal basal metabolism which means promotion of weight gain rather than healthy weight loss. The prime reason for it's ineffectiveness is because of it being a starvation and very low calorie diet which affects people's health negatively. Statistics have proven time and again that most people gain the weight back and usually more within a matter of only a few weeks.

Having said this, you can give this 3 day tuna diet menu a try since this is one of the probable 3 day diets that work. But, it's always better to choose a healthy diet and stick to long term basis rather than to indulge in such unsafe diets. A balanced diet coupled with exercises works best!

3 day Tuna Diet Menu

If you eat fish, then you must surely be knowing the importance, more precisely, the nutritional value of tuna fish. Tuna fish is known to be very high in proteins and being an oily fish naturally, owes to the high levels of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids present in it. Tuna is also rich in many other vitamins and phosphorus. It is a healthy diet choice since it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improves brain function and more recently, helps weight loss. Canned tuna is very popular in market and a good source to get tuna fish, easily. One would not believe that a 3 day diet menu can work? But tuna fish diet helps you lose 3 pounds in 3 days if one follows it regularly in that format. The 3 day tuna diet menu is a 3 day fad diets, as you'd expect, but it does not require you to exclusively eat tuna for the three days. It works because it consists of a low fat diet plan and involves minimum salt intake.



3 day Tuna Diet Plan

Day One
Breakfast: One cup black tea or coffee, half cup grapefruit/orange juice or any fruit juice, one slice toast smeared with peanut.
Lunch: Tuna (100-150 gms), one slice toast, one cup black coffee or tea.
Dinner: Broiled meat (100 gms), green beans, carrots (200 gms), vanilla ice cream/frozen yogurt (100 ml), one medium sized apple, one cup black coffee or tea or water.

Day Two
Breakfast: One cup black tea or coffee, one boiled egg, one slice toast, a banana.
Lunch: Tuna (200 gms), 5 saltine crackers, one cup black coffee or tea or water.
Dinner: 2 slices of beef (200 gms) or hot dogs, carrots/beets (100 gms), one banana, broccoli or cabbage (200 gms), Vanilla ice cream (50 ml), one cup black coffee or tea.

Day Three
Breakfast: One cup black tea or coffee, 5 saltine crackers, cheddar cheese (30 oz.) (a replacement for tuna), one medium sized apple.
Lunch: One egg cooked in a steep, one slice toast, one cup black coffee or tea.
Dinner: Tuna (200 gms), Carrots (100 gms), Cauliflower (100 gms), melon (100 gms), Vanilla ice cream (50 ml), one cup black coffee or tea.

Day Fourth-Seventh
  • You can resume your daily diet to complete a weeks' diet plan, but do not overeat. You can alternatively continue the 3 day tuna diet menu, if you wish to.
  • Addition of herbs, salt pepper, lemon, cooking spray, vinegar, soy sauce, mustard or ketchup to the foods will make your taste buds feel better since you might get bored of eating the same stuff again and again.
  • Drinking 4 glasses of water or diet soda with the 3 day diet plan is recommended.
  • This plan is flexible so you can replace foods according to your convenience and choice.
3 day Tuna Diet Reviews

Does the 3 day tuna diet really work? Well, the 3 day diet reviews claim that the 3 day tuna diet menu is effective in losing 10 pounds in 3 days, which is highly impractical, honestly since no testimonials have been recorded on the net proving this statement. Also, one has to remember that this one's a fad diet which leaves the dieter cranky and hungry rather than being satisfied. Also, the whole day calorie intake is less than 1000 calories which is not enough for any individual. The fact is that, when people go on a low carbohydrate diet they can create an adverse affect on their normal basal metabolism which means promotion of weight gain rather than healthy weight loss. The prime reason for it's ineffectiveness is because of it being a starvation and very low calorie diet which affects people's health negatively. Statistics have proven time and again that most people gain the weight back and usually more within a matter of only a few weeks.

Having said this, you can give this 3 day tuna diet menu a try since this is one of the probable 3 day diets that work. But, it's always better to choose a healthy diet and stick to long term basis rather than to indulge in such unsafe diets. A balanced diet coupled with exercises works best!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

IBS Diet

IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome. This problem is associated with the functioning of the intestines. During digestion, the food that we eat moves from the stomach to the small intestine and then it passes on to the large intestine or colon. To ensure smooth passage of the food through the digestive tract, the intestinal walls need to squeeze a bit. Irritable bowel syndrome is one such condition where the intestines contract abnormally. Sometimes, it is too hard and at other times, it is not adequate. As a result, people with IBS tend to get frequent bouts of diarrhea and constipation alternately. An IBS diet should have all such foods that can prevent both these symptoms and restore normal bowel movements.

Causes and Symptoms of IBS

So far, the exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not clearly known. It often arises when the contraction of the muscles present in the lining of the intestine is not proper. In some people, it is found to be genetic. Some get it after eating certain kinds of food such as fatty foods, caffeine substance, etc. Side effects of some medicines and psychological stress are the other factors often held responsible for this. A few typical symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are abdominal pain and cramping, constipation, inconsistent bowel movements, gas, bloating, diarrhea usually after eating, etc.

IBS Foods to Eat

When you are diagnosed with IBS, medicines are prescribed to treat the symptoms of IBS. Along with the medicines, a suitable irritable bowel syndrome diet is recommended. The foods to be included in this diet largely depend on the symptoms that you show. When you are having diarrhea, then the choice of foods will be slightly different from that of constipation. A list of suitable foods for IBS is given below.

Foods with Soluble Fiber Content
This kind of dietary fiber dissolves easily in water and forms a thick jelly like substance. Hence, it can be safely used during constipation as well as diarrhea. Foods that contain good amount of soluble fiber are rice, oatmeal, pasta, corn tortillas, carrots, potatoes and so on. These foods should be included in larger quantity in your meals and snacks. You can take these foods even on an empty stomach.

Foods with Insoluble Fiber Content
Wholewheat bread, cereals, bran, seeds, nuts, beans, fruits and vegetables are some of the foods that have insoluble fiber. Insoluble dietary fiber improve bowel movements when you have constipation. For this reason, such foods are included in IBS constipation diet. However, you should be a bit careful while eating such foods, they are not suitable for empty stomach and should be eaten only in small amounts.

Foods with Low Fat Content
High fat foods are not at all suitable when you have bowel problems. Therefore, opt for those foods that are low in fat content. The total fat intake should not be more than 25 percent of your diet. Use monosaturated oils like olive oil for cooking. While buying packed foods like potato chips or soups, read label to check fat content.

Bland Foods
When you are going through an episode of diarrhea caused by IBS, then you have to eat bland foods to control upset stomach condition. The main component of bland foods are bananas, white rice, applesauce and white bread. These foods are suitable because they do not cause any kind of stomach irritation.

IBS Foods to Avoid

There are some IBS trigger foods that tend to aggravate its symptoms. Hence, they have to be eliminated from the IBS diet. Some foods to avoid with an irritable bowel syndrome are as follows:
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Onions
  • Red meat
  • Egg yolk
  • Fried foods
  • High protein foods
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Chocolate
  • Processed foods
  • Artificial Sweeteners
  • Dairy products particularly if you have lactose intolerance
General Dietary Advice for IBS

To achieve maximum benefits from IBS diet, you have to follow some healthy eating habits. A few suggestions in this regard are given below:
  • Avoid eating large meals as they can cause abdominal cramping. Rather, eat small meals more frequently. Ideally, you should have six small meals throughout the day.
  • Eat your meals on time. Do not skip any of the meals.
  • Do not eat in a hurry. Sit in a relaxed position and enjoy the food that you are eating.
  • Drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday.
  • You are aware of the IBS foods to avoid. Stay away from all those foods.
  • If you are not sure whether a food item is among the IBS trigger foods or not then it is better to avoid that to be on safe side.
The characteristics of IBS is quite unique in every individual's case. Some of the foods for IBS that are recommended in this article may not suit you but they may work for other patients. Therefore, it is advisable that you monitor the foods that you are eating and the IBS symptoms for 2 weeks. If you find that you cannot tolerate any of the foods given in the IBS diet then you can stop that food or cut down on its intake.

IBS Diet

IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome. This problem is associated with the functioning of the intestines. During digestion, the food that we eat moves from the stomach to the small intestine and then it passes on to the large intestine or colon. To ensure smooth passage of the food through the digestive tract, the intestinal walls need to squeeze a bit. Irritable bowel syndrome is one such condition where the intestines contract abnormally. Sometimes, it is too hard and at other times, it is not adequate. As a result, people with IBS tend to get frequent bouts of diarrhea and constipation alternately. An IBS diet should have all such foods that can prevent both these symptoms and restore normal bowel movements.

Causes and Symptoms of IBS

So far, the exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not clearly known. It often arises when the contraction of the muscles present in the lining of the intestine is not proper. In some people, it is found to be genetic. Some get it after eating certain kinds of food such as fatty foods, caffeine substance, etc. Side effects of some medicines and psychological stress are the other factors often held responsible for this. A few typical symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are abdominal pain and cramping, constipation, inconsistent bowel movements, gas, bloating, diarrhea usually after eating, etc.

IBS Foods to Eat

When you are diagnosed with IBS, medicines are prescribed to treat the symptoms of IBS. Along with the medicines, a suitable irritable bowel syndrome diet is recommended. The foods to be included in this diet largely depend on the symptoms that you show. When you are having diarrhea, then the choice of foods will be slightly different from that of constipation. A list of suitable foods for IBS is given below.

Foods with Soluble Fiber Content
This kind of dietary fiber dissolves easily in water and forms a thick jelly like substance. Hence, it can be safely used during constipation as well as diarrhea. Foods that contain good amount of soluble fiber are rice, oatmeal, pasta, corn tortillas, carrots, potatoes and so on. These foods should be included in larger quantity in your meals and snacks. You can take these foods even on an empty stomach.

Foods with Insoluble Fiber Content
Wholewheat bread, cereals, bran, seeds, nuts, beans, fruits and vegetables are some of the foods that have insoluble fiber. Insoluble dietary fiber improve bowel movements when you have constipation. For this reason, such foods are included in IBS constipation diet. However, you should be a bit careful while eating such foods, they are not suitable for empty stomach and should be eaten only in small amounts.

Foods with Low Fat Content
High fat foods are not at all suitable when you have bowel problems. Therefore, opt for those foods that are low in fat content. The total fat intake should not be more than 25 percent of your diet. Use monosaturated oils like olive oil for cooking. While buying packed foods like potato chips or soups, read label to check fat content.

Bland Foods
When you are going through an episode of diarrhea caused by IBS, then you have to eat bland foods to control upset stomach condition. The main component of bland foods are bananas, white rice, applesauce and white bread. These foods are suitable because they do not cause any kind of stomach irritation.

IBS Foods to Avoid

There are some IBS trigger foods that tend to aggravate its symptoms. Hence, they have to be eliminated from the IBS diet. Some foods to avoid with an irritable bowel syndrome are as follows:
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Onions
  • Red meat
  • Egg yolk
  • Fried foods
  • High protein foods
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Chocolate
  • Processed foods
  • Artificial Sweeteners
  • Dairy products particularly if you have lactose intolerance
General Dietary Advice for IBS

To achieve maximum benefits from IBS diet, you have to follow some healthy eating habits. A few suggestions in this regard are given below:
  • Avoid eating large meals as they can cause abdominal cramping. Rather, eat small meals more frequently. Ideally, you should have six small meals throughout the day.
  • Eat your meals on time. Do not skip any of the meals.
  • Do not eat in a hurry. Sit in a relaxed position and enjoy the food that you are eating.
  • Drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday.
  • You are aware of the IBS foods to avoid. Stay away from all those foods.
  • If you are not sure whether a food item is among the IBS trigger foods or not then it is better to avoid that to be on safe side.
The characteristics of IBS is quite unique in every individual's case. Some of the foods for IBS that are recommended in this article may not suit you but they may work for other patients. Therefore, it is advisable that you monitor the foods that you are eating and the IBS symptoms for 2 weeks. If you find that you cannot tolerate any of the foods given in the IBS diet then you can stop that food or cut down on its intake.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Pre Diabetic Diet

Normal blood sugar ranges between 70 and 150 mg/dL in adults. As this is normal, there is no restriction in the daily diet of a person. But if the blood sugar is measured above or below the normal value then it may be a matter of concern. The pre diabetic value range from 150 mg/dL to 200 mg/dL. Any value above this is considered as established diabetes. If you are diagnosed with pre diabetic conditions then you have a chance to convert this condition into normal. You just have to concentrate on the pre diabetic diet and some exercises to get over pre diabetic conditions.

A healthy diet can keep you away from lots of diseases and switching to a healthy diet is always considered as the best way to overcome any disease. If you have been detected with pre diabetic conditions, this means you need to bring it to its normal value. So, we are here to give you few of our pre diabetic diet recommendations which will help you to get back into your normal blood sugar level.

Pre Diabetic Diet Guidelines

Pre diabetic condition can be easily overcome by following a pre diabetic diet plan. You just have to concentrate on some of the healthy food and prepare a proper diet to avoid diabetes. By this and few exercise routine you can get back to your normal blood sugar level. Following are some of the tips to get yourself out of pre diabetes.

Vegetables in Pre Diabetic Diet
When you are in a pre diabetic condition you need to have lots and lots of vegetables which are rich in fibers and are nutritious. Following is a pre diabetic food list which can help you to plan a pre diabetic diet menu for yourself.
  • Carrots
  • Spinach
  • Lettuce
  • Onion
  • Cucumber
  • Mushrooms
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Tomatoes
  • Green and fresh beans
  • Broccoli
  • Beets
  • Lettuce
  • Okra
Fruits in Pre Diabetic Diet
Fruits are also very helpful in curing pre diabetic condition. Both fresh fruits and dry fruits are good for a pre diabetes diet. Fruit juices of the below given fruits can also help you if they do not have added sugar in it.
  • Apple
  • Oranges
  • Grapefruit
  • Lime
  • Peaches
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Dried Apricots
  • Purines
  • Pears
Sea Food and Meat in Pre Diabetic Diet
You can have sea food and meat when you are suffering from pre diabetic conditions but you need to restrict the daily intake to a weekly basis and have to choose the options from the below given list.
  • Sea food may include fishes such as sardines, tilapia, tuna, haddock, cod, halibut, catfish herring, etc. It can also include shellfish.
  • Poultry product may have egg, chicken, turkey, duck, etc. but all without skin.
  • Other meat may have beef, pork and lamb but they should be fat free.
Grains and Legumes in Pre Diabetic Diet
Concentrate more on whole grains than on processed grains. Following list may help you with pre diabetic conditions.
  • Grain bread, such as buckwheat bread, oat bran bread, multi-grain bread etc.
  • Other product may include oat bran cereal, muesli, wild rice, brown rice, whole barley, buckwheat, whole wheat spaghetti etc. You can go through cereals for diabetics to get a detailed information.
  • Legumes may include kidney or pinto beans, soybeans, garbanzo beans, split peas etc.
There are a number of diabetic foods to avoid from the pre diabetic diet. The food products which contain high amount of cholesterol and fats should be avoided at this stage. You should avoid fried and oily things. Concentrate more on nutrients than on the taste of the food product. Avoid having desserts like ice creams, sweets, pudding, etc. at least till you achieve a normal blood sugar level. There are many pre diabetic diet recipes by which you can get better taste in a healthy way.

Apart from all these things, you should also include some exercises in you daily routine, which will help you to stay fit and away from pre diabetic condition. So, prepare a menu out of the pre diabetic diet guideline given in this article and have something healthy and nutritious. Follow it daily and very soon you will observe your blood sugar coming back to its normal value.

Pre Diabetic Diet

Normal blood sugar ranges between 70 and 150 mg/dL in adults. As this is normal, there is no restriction in the daily diet of a person. But if the blood sugar is measured above or below the normal value then it may be a matter of concern. The pre diabetic value range from 150 mg/dL to 200 mg/dL. Any value above this is considered as established diabetes. If you are diagnosed with pre diabetic conditions then you have a chance to convert this condition into normal. You just have to concentrate on the pre diabetic diet and some exercises to get over pre diabetic conditions.

A healthy diet can keep you away from lots of diseases and switching to a healthy diet is always considered as the best way to overcome any disease. If you have been detected with pre diabetic conditions, this means you need to bring it to its normal value. So, we are here to give you few of our pre diabetic diet recommendations which will help you to get back into your normal blood sugar level.

Pre Diabetic Diet Guidelines

Pre diabetic condition can be easily overcome by following a pre diabetic diet plan. You just have to concentrate on some of the healthy food and prepare a proper diet to avoid diabetes. By this and few exercise routine you can get back to your normal blood sugar level. Following are some of the tips to get yourself out of pre diabetes.

Vegetables in Pre Diabetic Diet
When you are in a pre diabetic condition you need to have lots and lots of vegetables which are rich in fibers and are nutritious. Following is a pre diabetic food list which can help you to plan a pre diabetic diet menu for yourself.
  • Carrots
  • Spinach
  • Lettuce
  • Onion
  • Cucumber
  • Mushrooms
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Tomatoes
  • Green and fresh beans
  • Broccoli
  • Beets
  • Lettuce
  • Okra
Fruits in Pre Diabetic Diet
Fruits are also very helpful in curing pre diabetic condition. Both fresh fruits and dry fruits are good for a pre diabetes diet. Fruit juices of the below given fruits can also help you if they do not have added sugar in it.
  • Apple
  • Oranges
  • Grapefruit
  • Lime
  • Peaches
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Dried Apricots
  • Purines
  • Pears
Sea Food and Meat in Pre Diabetic Diet
You can have sea food and meat when you are suffering from pre diabetic conditions but you need to restrict the daily intake to a weekly basis and have to choose the options from the below given list.
  • Sea food may include fishes such as sardines, tilapia, tuna, haddock, cod, halibut, catfish herring, etc. It can also include shellfish.
  • Poultry product may have egg, chicken, turkey, duck, etc. but all without skin.
  • Other meat may have beef, pork and lamb but they should be fat free.
Grains and Legumes in Pre Diabetic Diet
Concentrate more on whole grains than on processed grains. Following list may help you with pre diabetic conditions.
  • Grain bread, such as buckwheat bread, oat bran bread, multi-grain bread etc.
  • Other product may include oat bran cereal, muesli, wild rice, brown rice, whole barley, buckwheat, whole wheat spaghetti etc. You can go through cereals for diabetics to get a detailed information.
  • Legumes may include kidney or pinto beans, soybeans, garbanzo beans, split peas etc.
There are a number of diabetic foods to avoid from the pre diabetic diet. The food products which contain high amount of cholesterol and fats should be avoided at this stage. You should avoid fried and oily things. Concentrate more on nutrients than on the taste of the food product. Avoid having desserts like ice creams, sweets, pudding, etc. at least till you achieve a normal blood sugar level. There are many pre diabetic diet recipes by which you can get better taste in a healthy way.

Apart from all these things, you should also include some exercises in you daily routine, which will help you to stay fit and away from pre diabetic condition. So, prepare a menu out of the pre diabetic diet guideline given in this article and have something healthy and nutritious. Follow it daily and very soon you will observe your blood sugar coming back to its normal value.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Alkaline Diet Benefits

Foods are said to have alkaline and acidic properties. Our body needs a balance of acidic and alkaline foods in order to function smoothly. In cases where the acids in the body have increased, people switch to alkaline diet. This alkaline diet is made up of certain fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, etc. However, there are no scientific studies conducted to ascertain the alkaline diet benefits. Some believe that this diet is another fad diet followed by some people.

What is Alkaline Diet?

When we talk about alkaline diet and alkaline food, what do we mean? What determines if the food item is acidic or alkaline in nature? It is the pH of the food item that determines the nature of the food. The ideal pH level is 7. Any food with the pH greater than 7 is alkaline and the ones that fall below the pH 7 are known as acidic food items. If the body has an acidic pH level, there are chances of suffering from stroke, obesity, high blood pressure, etc. This makes normalization of the body's pH level, mandatory. In order to do so, it is believed that food items alkaline in nature need to be consumed.

When alkaline food is consumed, it burns in the body and leaves ash or alkaline residue. This residue contains minerals and helps the body restore itself and balances the acids in the body. Cabbage, lettuce, cauliflower, chives, broccoli, celery, garlic, cucumber, radish Brussels sprouts are the foods that are alkaline in nature and are a part of the alkaline foods list. Avocados, olives, coconut oils are also said to be alkaline. These are the food items that are included in the alkaline diet plan. But what are the alkaline diet benefits?

Benefits of Alkaline Diet

Alkaline diet is believed to prevent some kinds of cancers, obesity and allergies. However, the authenticity of this is yet to be determined by the experts. Still, there are several other benefits of alkaline diet. As mentioned above, alkaline diet consists of fresh vegetables, low sugar foods and meat, dairy, alcohol and fungi needs to be consumed in a very less amount. The important point to remember here is that there are no medical evidences to prove the alkaline diet benefits. The benefits mentioned below are based on the reports of the people who follow and believe in alkaline diet.

Health Problems
Due to the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet, the body flushes out the toxins. This prevents the body from suffering from other complications. By consuming alkaline foods, the acidic nature of blood is also controlled. This also prevents further illness caused because of high acidity levels. However, eating too many alkaline rich foods cause high alkaline phosphatase in the blood level.

Acid Reflux
Alkaline diet benefits the people suffering from acid reflux. This condition is normalized by consumption of alkaline rich foods. The alkaline foods for acid reflux, helps relieve the acid reflux in our body.

Loss in Weight
It is believed that alkaline diet results in weight loss. As you consume fresh fruits and vegetables regularly and the meat consumption is low, weight loss is natural. It is believed that increase in the acidic pH of the body is responsible for weight gain. As the acid consumption is low, weight loss takes place. The processed foods and sugars that you otherwise consume, are avoided in this situation and this contributes towards reducing your weight, considerably. Hence, alkaline diet for weight loss is desired.

Energy Levels
Fatigue is a side effect of increased level of acidity in the body. Alkaline food helps you to remain energetic for a longer duration of time. People believe that following an alkaline diet has made them more energetic than the high protein diet that they otherwise follow.

Eating too many high alkaline foods may create problems in the working of the liver, bone conditions, and other health related issues. People have claimed that by following alkaline diet, they have also experienced relief from arthritis pain. As mentioned earlier, there are no experts claiming any specific alkaline diet benefits. Hence, it remains to be seen if following this diet really helps the human body to eliminate painful diseases. However, experts believe and have always said that our diet should be a healthy diet and a balanced diet, a combination of both - acids and alkaline food items. Both are necessary for our body and we cannot claim that acidic diet is harmful nor can we claim that alkaline diet is beneficial.