Vegetarian Diet Benefits

Millions of people around the world have a vegetarian diet - some by choice, some by religion, some for health, some for the love of animals. The following article elaborates upon the vegetarian diet benefits.

Conventionally, a vegetarian person is often defined as a person who does not eat animal flesh. The modern definition of a person following vegetarianism, is a person who does not consume meat, poultry and fish. Many of the health and medical associations around the world, have defined three different types of vegetarians:

Vegans: The vegans are the vegetarian people who do not consume any kind of animal derived food. This may also include products like milk and honey. The vegan society is an organization that promotes the spread of veganism. This society was founded by Donald Watson Elsie Shrigley, in order to promote the concept and also expand the domain of vegetarianism.

Vegetarian Cooking is Scrumptious and Nutritious

There are lots of people who consider that vegetarian cookery is dull, but nothing could be further from the truth. There are countless people who have sampled vegetarian cooking and appreciated just how good it tastes. Vegetarianism is a natural way of life that is available for everyone who wants to eat healthily.

Oddly, there are some people cannot appreciate the value of vegetarian cooking. Vegetarian cooking is as old as the hills and it is mouth-wateringly tasty. Luckily, traditional vegetarian diets have not been lost in time, and are available to all who feel like trying them.

Vegetarian cooking is so extensive that it is able to suit almost everybody's tastes and diets. The wide range of dishes make it hard to decide which aspect of vegetarian cooking to try next. The various recipes are not only scrumptious but wholesome and nutritious as well.

Vegetarian Candida Diet

Candida diet offers many options for vegetarians. Here is a list of foodstuffs which could be consumed when on a vegetarian Candida diet.

Candida is a type of fungus. Its overgrowth results in infection in our body. Candida is present in the human body in the skin, regions of the mouth and the genitals. Sometimes, it grows uncontrollably and results in Candidiasis.The major factors causing this are- excessive use of antibiotics and excessive intake of sugar.

Antibiotics help to eliminate the harmful bacteria in our body. Along with this, sometimes, they also kill the useful bacteria that help in keeping Candida growth under control. As Candida is said to grow on sugar, it is the major cause of Candidiasis.

5 Things I Learned From the Fantastic New Healthy Living Book "Do It Gorgeously"

I had a chance to check out Sophie Uliano's new book "Do It Gorgeously: How to Make Less Toxic, Less Expensive, and More Beautiful Products," and I was so fascinated! Here are five healthy things I learned ...

Loving the new book from Sophie Uliano (who you may recognize from her first book, the New York Times bestseller "Gorgeously Green." The new title is out on June 1! Here are five things I learned:

1. Store-bought mouthwash kind of sucks. I knew that already (some health experts worry that the high alcohol content may be bad for the PH of your mouth and possibly contribute to oral cancers--eek), but didn't know how easy it was to make your own. (Mix one cup of aloe vera juice, 1/2 cup of distilled water, 1 tbsp of witch hazel, 2 tsp. baking soda and 20 drops of peppermint essential oils. Voila!)

Lexiva

Lexiva

Generic Name: fosamprenavir (FOS am pren a veer)

Brand Names: Lexiva

What is Lexiva?

Lexiva is an antiviral medication in a group of HIV medicines called protease (PRO-tee-ayz) inhibitors. Lexiva prevents human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cells from multiplying in your body.

Lexiva is used to treat HIV, which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.

Lexiva may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Lexiva

Do not take Lexiva with cisapride (Propulsid), pimozide (Orap), midazolam (Versed), triazolam (Halcion), or an ergot medicine such as Ergomar, Cafergot, Wigraine, D.H.E. 45, Migranal, Methergine, and others. Lexiva should not be taken together with ritonavir (Norvir) if you are also using a heart rhythm medication called flecainide (Tambocor) or propafenone (Rythmol). Ask your doctor about taking a different medication for your heart rhythm disorder. These drugs can cause life-threatening side effects if you use them while you are taking Lexiva.

15 Common Myths About Weight Loss, Nutrition, And Diet

Myth #1: Fad diets work for permanent weight loss.

Fact: Fad diets are not the best way to lose weight and keep it off. Fad diets often promise quick weight loss or tell you to cut certain foods out of your diet. You may lose weight at first on one of these diets. But diets that strictly limit calories or food choices are hard to follow. Most people quickly get tired of them and regain any lost weight.

Fad diets may be unhealthy because they may not provide all of the nutrients your body needs. Also, losing weight at a very rapid rate (more than 3 pounds a week after the first few weeks) may increase your risk for developing gallstones (clusters of solid material in the gallbladder that can be painful). Diets that provide less than 800 calories per day also could result in heart rhythm abnormalities, which can be fatal.
Tip: Research suggests that losing ½ to 2 pounds a week by making healthy food choices, eating moderate portions, and building physical activity into your daily life is the best way to lose weight and keep it off. By adopting healthy eating and physical activity habits, you may also lower your risk for developing:

    type 2 diabetes
    heart disease
    high blood pressure

Myth #2: High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are a healthy way to lose weight.

Fact: The long-term health effects of a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet are unknown. But getting most of your daily calories from high-protein foods like meat, eggs, and cheese is not a balanced eating plan. You may be eating too much fat and cholesterol, which may raise heart disease risk. You may be eating too few fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which may lead to constipation due to lack of dietary fiber. Following a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet may also make you feel:

    nauseous
    tired
    weak

Eating fewer than 130 grams of carbohydrate a day can lead to the buildup of ketones (partially broken-down fats) in your blood. A buildup of ketones in your blood (called ketosis) can cause your body to produce high levels of uric acid, which is a risk factor for gout (a painful swelling of the joints) and kidney stones. Ketosis may be especially risky for pregnant women and people with diabetes or kidney disease.

Tip: High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are often low in calories because food choices are strictly limited, so they may cause short-term weight loss. But a reduced-calorie eating plan that includes recommended amounts of carbohydrate, protein, and fat will also allow you to lose weight. By following a balanced eating plan, you will not have to stop eating whole classes of foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—and miss the key nutrients they contain. You may also find it easier to stick with a diet or eating plan that includes a greater variety of foods. Phentermine Adipex Online Pharmacy

You Are What You Eat… the Importance of Rethinking Your Food Purchases

To get a clue of what’s in your body, take a look in your refrigerator and pantry. If what you see is not as healthy as you’d like, it’s up to you to fix it. There is no way you are going to be healthy with nothing but chips and cheese dips living in your pantry.

Preferably, shop at the farmers market. The produce is fresher, which also means it’s healthier and tastier, especially if it’s grown locally.

At the supermarket, shop the perimeters for your food. That’s where you’ll find “real” food, such as fruits, veggies, dairy, baked goods, and meats (opt for lean cuts).

If fruits and vegetables are foreign to your diet, try a new one each week until you’re familiar with them. Be sure to include dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and arugula. If you’re like me and have a hard time getting used to eating fruits, try making them into a smoothie. Combine berries, pineapple and bananas with ice and a little bit of yogurt. A delicious and nutritious way to start the day while boosting your immune system!

Your Personal Guide to Adding Super Foods to Your Holiday Meal

Many of us have heard about ‘super foods’, foods that can significantly improve your health and well-being due to their high vitamin and mineral content.

Guess what? The holidays are a great time to incorporate super foods into the meal plan and give your family and friends the gift of health!

Low fat yogurt:  Yogurt is considered a super food due to its numerous health benefits. The probiotics in yogurt help regulate the digestive system and promote immune system health. Yogurt is also an excellent source of calcium, iodine, riboflivan Vitamin B12 and phosphorus. It’s also a healthy source of protein.

Your Happiness: What's Your Favorite Season? (What It May Say About You!)

Do you feel most content bundled up in a sweater during the winter months? Or is being in a bikini on the beach during summer your thing? I've always wondered what our favorite season says about our personalities, so I consulted with an expert to get the really interesting scoop...

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I love fall (and winter, too). The season takes my breath away with its crimson and orange leaves and clear cold days (at least in my part of the country). Also, as corny as it may sound, I love getting reacquainted with my sweaters, Uggs, fireplace, and apple cider. But most of all, I crave the "change" that fall brings--when everything seems to go through dramatic changes. Best of all, fall signals new beginnings for me (remember the thrill of a new school year and the scent of freshly sharpened pencils?).

Your Food Is Alive! And That's a Good Thing

You've probably heard a lot lately, about the "good bacteria" in certain foods. They're called probiotics, and as the pro prefix indicates, they are indeed good for you. (This doesn't mean that antibiotics are bad for you-but more on that later.) "Probiotics are microorganisms found in food or supplements that are health-promoting," explains dietician Amy Campbell, M.S., R.D., C.D.E., education program manager for the Disease Management Division at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. These tiny bacterial organisms are alive can be seen only under a microscope.

Don't say "yuck" just yet, though! Trillions of bacteria already live in your body--many of which protect you from disease. When the balancing act between the good and the bad gets thrown off, your health and well-being can suffer. There are two chief ways this upset occurs: antibiotic use, which kills off the friendly along with the unfriendly bacteria and causes gas, cramping and diarrhea; and exposure to disease-causing organisms. The reason the health community is so "pro" on probiotic foods is because they help replace the good bacteria in your body that have been destroyed by medications or illness.

Yoga for Weight Loss

Did you make a resolution this year to lose weight? Did you know that yoga can help you do that?

Yoga has so many benefits, such as reducing stress, building strong muscles and increasing flexibility.

Yoga can actually help you lose weight, too! However, some poses do not raise your heart rate enough to help you slim down.

If you want yoga to be your major source of exercise, there are some specific poses you need to include in your practice to help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Yoga poses that help you lose weight include warrior, boat, hover and chair. Most instructors, whether teaching through a gym, studio or even a DVD, include these postures in their routines. These yoga poses help you lose weight by invigorating and restoring balance in the body.

Write Your Way to Good Health!

This year, along with your to-do lists, maybe it’s time to start keeping track of your health as well. Starting a health journal can help you remember any past surgeries, allergies you may have and medications you could and couldn’t take.

This is especially important for people who were prescribed a particular medication and unable to continue the dosage due to an allergic reaction.

Also, year after year, sometimes around the same time of the year we seem to feel ill or even exhibit symptoms of depression. Keeping a health journal can help you deter from those old behaviors and steer clear of feelings of sadness or illness. Just think, the next time you feel ill or depressed it could be due to seasonal changes.

Would You Like to Make Your Booty, Uh, Pop?

I admire women with plump rumps as much as the next girl-and sometimes wish mine had a little more, shall we say, oomph to it. But do I care or feel badly enough about it to wear the latest body-altering underthings with built in fake buns? No way. Read on to see the hilarious infomercial- and weigh in.

The body image blogosphere is abuzz about these new undies.

What do you think about them: sexist, man-pandering and sad? Or just another useful fashion tool for womankind?

Winter Health Care – Save Your Pennies and Prevent Winter-Related Health Issues Naturally!

Let’s face it: it’s not uncommon to suffer from common cold, flu and ear infection symptoms like a runny nose, scratchy throat, earache and even sinus pressure during the winter months. Some families spend hundreds of dollars on doctor visits in the winter time, but learning how to prevent viruses and heal the body naturally can save you time and money this season.

Colds

Most adults tend to catch the common cold 3-4 times a year, and unfortunately for children, those numbers are even higher. With statistics like these, it is important to know what you can do naturally for you and your loved ones to prevent recurring colds.

Why Sweet Potatoes May Boost Your Immune System (and My Recipe for Sweet Potato Gnocchi)

OK, don't laugh: I was listening to the 24-7 Christmas music station here in Seattle over the weekend (so far, I'm not sick of Jingle Bells!), and I heard an announcer talking about the amazing health benefits of sweet potatoes (random, I know). Of course, I listened up! We already know that they're loaded with potassium, thanks to this piece by Glamour.com's Lindsey Unterberger, but who knew they could ward off the cold and flu viruses? Read on for the details...

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So, according to several past studies, sweet potatoes are a fall power food you should eat year round. Yep, don't just save them for the holidays. Here's why: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene, which scientists believe may help increase T cell activity in the body. T cells are known as the "helper" cells that fight infection.

Why Do We Call Dogs “Man’s Best Friend”?

I am a new dog owner, and even though I had dogs as a kid, now that I am older I am starting to realize the “real responsibilities” that come from owning a pet. My dog Atticus is now 9 months old, and I couldn’t help but wonder, why are dogs considered “man’s best friend”?

Atticus (Atti for short) always greets me at the door, is always excited to see me, and is always willing to overlook the small little imperfections about me (like leaving the dishes in the sink for too long). So when I researched “Why are dogs man’s best friend?”, I found a mountain of information about how humans acquired a relationship with dogs. It turns out that 16,000 years ago, men used wolves as guard dogs and to help herd livestock. We as humans have evolved tremendously, and now we also play, kiss, and hug our dogs… But still, after thousands of years, dogs are still known as “man’s best friend”.

Why Does My Pet Have Gas?

It’s completely normal for your pet to have gas just like humans do, however if your pet has excessive amounts of gas, unwanted side effects can occur for both pets and owners.

The occurrence of gas varies from breed to breed and can cause not only some embarrassing moments for pet owners, but may also be the result of a medical condition. Boxers in particular are prone to excessive gas due to their short muzzles.

Pets generally develop gas from swallowing air while drinking water or eating food. There are two types of gas that may develop in pets, gastric and intestinal. Gastric gas involves the accumulation of gas in the stomach which can cause belching. A lot of times, animals develop stomach gas which can be remedied by belching or even vomiting, which although completely safe is not a welcomed sight by pet owners.

Why Are Some Parents Not Vaccinating Their Children?

The recently released State of Health Care Quality report created by the National Committee for Quality Assurance found an interesting trend when it comes to vaccinations.

Researchers found the number of childhood vaccinations, including MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), decreased almost 3 percent between 2008 and 2009. Diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough vaccination rates also fell from 87.2 percent to 85.4 percent in the same one year period, and a similar decrease was seen in chickenpox vaccinations which dropped from 92 percent to 90.6 percent.

The yearly report is based on voluntary reporting from 1,000 health plans covering 118 million Americans, in addition to Medicaid data. Although the reasons for the decrease have yet to be explored, according to Sarah Thomas, vice president of public policy and communication for the National Committee for Quality Assurance " the one leading hypothesis is that parents have decided not to get their children vaccinated because of concerns about the potential for side effects and even autism."

When It Comes to Your Health, What Have You Flip-Flopped On?

I have this theory--and maybe you do, too--that we're all works in progress. When it comes to making healthy choices, it's a journey, and we're likely to "flip flop" now and then (remember that overused phrase from the 2004 elections?). Take the fact that I used to be a vegetarian, and now eat meat (and love it)--total flip flop. What health-related things have you changed your mind about over the years?

Lots of stars have flip flopped on the road to getting healthy. Oprah correspondent Lisa Ling was once a fan of colonics (you know, colon cleansing--eeew!), but not anymore. Lots of stars tried the Atkins Diet before ditching it, including 24's Marisol Nichols. And, let's not get started on all the wacky fitness trends out there.

When Does Your Brain Function Peak?

Brain ability peaks at age 22 and mental powers begin to dwindle at age 27, Virginia University researchers found.

Professor Timothy Salthouse found reasoning, speed of thought and spatial visualization all decline beginning in the late 20s, the British Broadcasting Corp. reported.

Therapies designed to stall or reverse the aging process may need to start much earlier than middle age, Salthouse said.

To test mental agility, Salthouse had 2,000 healthy people ages 18-60 solve puzzles, recall words and story details and spot patterns in letters and symbols.

The researchers found that the first marked decline was at age 27 in tests of brain speed, reasoning and visual puzzle-solving ability. However, memory stayed intact until age 37, while abilities based on accumulated knowledge, such as performance on tests of vocabulary or general information, increased until age 60.

What Are You Eating This Weekend?

Happy weekend, my dears! What's on the menu this weekend? Pregnancy cravings are in full effect now that I'm plowing through my second trimester, and here's what I'm dying to eat ...

I made crepes at home last weekend, but this weekend, I'm still on a crepe kick (blaming the baby), so I'll be checking out the new crepe restaurant in Seattle that's supposed to be really good. I think I'll get something savory, like a veggie and cheese crepe. Yum.

Oh, and I have to confess: I can't get enough pepperoncinis! You know, the spicy, pickled peppers that come in Greek salads? I am eating them by the jar. Craziest pregnancy craving yet.

What Are Your (Kind of Goofy) Health Rituals?

Do you ever take a step back and look at yourself and think, like Erin over at Life With Cancer wrote about today, "coo coo"? Her post about the sometimes-goofy weight-loss rituals we keep made me think of all the other quirky health rituals we (me included) pack into our days.

For instance, I'm a major germaphobe (not a word, I know). So I keep hand-sanitizing gel everywhere! And I mean, everywhere. I recently added a pump-top container of germ zapper to the cup-holder in my car, so every time I leave a germy store I slather my hands in the stuff. My husband, I'll add, thinks I'm nuts.

What are your borderline-crazy health rituals? Do you take a Vitamin C supplement at the mere sound of someone coughing at work? Swear that singing through a shot or blood draw makes it sting less?

What's With Jon Gosselin's Sudden Smoking Habit?

I will admit, I don't have much patience for smokers. Even the smokers I know don't have much patience for smokers (seriously, I know women who loathe themselves for their habit). And, after all the news about Jon and Kate Plus 8 of late (hey that rhymes!), I guess I wasn't that surprised to see Jon Gosselin puffing on a cig with his new gal pal over the weekend. But I'm still going to give him a hard time about it ...

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Jon Gosselin, once the cherubic family man--and let's not forget, father of 8--has suddenly gone bad boy. He was spotted over the weekend smoking with this gal-pal Hailey Glassman in France (P.S. Hailey's the daughter of the doc who gave Kate a tummy tuck--crazy, I know). To see photos of their smoky escapade, click here. (If he smoked before, TLC did a good job concealing it.)

We Live in A Very Sugary World, Don't We?

Guys, I recently scanned the label of my favorite jar of marinara sauce and found sugar in the ingredient list. Sugar! You should have seen me. I almost dropped the jar. OK, so a little bit isn't going to kill us, but here's my rant: Do they have to add it to everything? Can some things remain sacred no-sugar zones? Like marinara sauce for crying out loud? New warnings about sugar to tell you about...

When did everything suddenly get so darn sweet? If it seems like sugar makes an appearance in everything you eat these days, it's true. According to reports, Americans are now eating 19 percent more sugar than they did in the 1970s. We're on a sugar high, people. And, citing sugar's role in weight gain and obesity, the American Heart Association wants to do something about it.

Weird Science News: Too Much Caffeine Might Make You Hallucinate

Hey, you with the latte! New research from Durham University in the UK reveals that people who guzzle too much caffeine might end up with a spooky side effect: They could start hearing strange voices or see ghosts. Read on for the trippy details...

People who drink at least 330 milligrams of caffeine per day were three times as likely to have hallucinations as those who consumed less than 10 milligrams a day, according to the study published in Personality and Individual Differences. That's about the amount of caffeine in seven 8-ounce cups of black tea or 3.5 cups of black coffee.

When you consume caffeine, your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol. Researchers suggest that this flood of extra hormones may cause some people to start seeing things that aren't there. Another explanation may be that people under stress are more susceptible to hallucinations, anyway, and the coffee intake is just a coincidence. But coffee fiends shouldn't fret--this news doesn't mean you need to give up your morning joe. "There would be no real reason for me to stop drinking tea," lead researcher Simon Jones told Bloomberg News. "I don't see a reason to change a moderate intake."

Touting the Benefits of Fish

The debate over the relative risks and benefits of eating seafood veered toward the benefits recently. Two authoritative scientific assessments concluded that for most people, the health benefits of eating finfish and shellfish clearly exceed any risks from contamination by toxic chemicals, heavy metals or microbes. Even vulnerable groups, like pregnant women and young children, could benefit by eating more fish if they avoided the most contaminated species. Both studies were financed by U.S. agencies, insulating them from commercial influences. The Institute of Medicine of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences judged seafood to be a good source of high-quality protein that is low in saturated fat and rich in many vitamins and minerals. It found that eating fish can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Tips to Promote Immunity in Pets

While your pet may initiate certain behaviors regarding eating habits and exercise, through the evolution of domestication, many of these normal processes fall under the influence of our hands. Therefore, making just a few tweaks in routine may greatly benefit your pet’s overall health and well-being.

There is much that can be done to support a healthy immune system in pets. Here are a few tips:

Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals as much as possible.

Don’t expose your pet to second hand cigarette smoke.

Give your pet a healthy varied diet – making sure to include lots of raw meat, fresh vegetables and fruit.

Tips to Help Reduce Holiday Stress and Lose Weight Naturally

Holiday stress has become so rampant that it has become increasingly hard to associate this time of the year with heart-warming traditions like caroling and nutmeg.

Thankfully, there are a few things you can control by planning ahead.

* On a tight budget? Opt for a gift exchange or do some online research on how to create unique, yet inexpensive homemade gifts.

* Do holiday crowds at the mall make you cringe? Shop online. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time, or you’ll be stressed your packages won’t make it on time!

* Worried you’re going to pack on the pounds? Schedule realistic times to exercise and stick with your plan. Physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce holiday stress. Even a short brisk walk will do wonders.

Tips for Keeping the #1 Resolution: Weight Loss

Weight loss is the number one resolution for Americans! According to the National Center for Health Statistics, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death (which is directly linked to obesity). It is therefore no wonder that each year more and more people attempt to get healthy.

With all the advertising for mouth-watering dishes joined with time-crunched schedules, resisting quick, unhealthy food can be extremely difficult.

Combine our societal influences with a new research study funded by the National Institutes of Health on dieters who struggle with emotional eating, and resolution commitment becomes harder and harder and may explain why so many people who lose weight gain it all back.

Time Outdoors Helps Settle ADD/ADHD Children

With summer vacation in full swing, many families are still planning last-minute getaways or making final preparations for well-awaited vacations. However, for parents with a child that has ADD/ADHD, there are some recently discovered considerations to factor into travel itineraries.

Studies conducted at the Landscape and Human Health Laboratory at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign by Frances Kuo, Ph.D., suggest that ADD/ADHD children show less hyperactivity and distractibility when in natural surroundings.

Whether planning a vacation around a natural setting or incorporating greenery into everyday activities, exposure to nature has shown to be effective in reducing ADD/ADHD symptoms.

Ticked-Off Tuesday: What's Bugging You Today (and What's Your Fave Way to De-Stress?)

Ticked off about something today? In another round of Ticked-Off Tuesday, I'm opening up this post to hear your rants, and more importantly, to hear about all the healthy ways you deal with your stress (because we all could use some new coping techniques, right?) ...

Today, I'm totally peeved that my dog rolled in something gag-inducing on the lawn outside--again--and I'm going to have to give her a bath (or else deal with this gross smell all day--she's an indoor dog). Did I mention that she's an enormous, 90-pound golden retriever?! Bathing her is an event!

So yes, a small gripe today--nothing huge, which makes me count my blessings, for sure. But, I'll tell you, when my husband gets home today, I'm going to hand off the baby and toddler and go on a herculean jog--it's my favorite way to deal with stress!

Think Your House Is Messy? Check This Out

My house is on the real estate market right now (want to buy a cute house in Seattle--call me!), which means I'm obsessively cleaning--constantly. But, if it wasn't, I'd be letting the dishes pile up, and I'd be feeling bad about messes. You too? Here's a Web site that will make us all feel better...

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The messiest apartment in America? MyApartmentMap.com is on a mission to find it via their (brilliant!) "Messiest Apartment in America" contest. Click through some hilarious photos (and frightening ones too ... bloody pillows, what?), like the ones below, which should make you feel better about the state of your household:

The Hottest Butt in the World (According to One Contest), and Some New Butt-Toning Advice

Today's fitness news? It's about your bottom. Let's talk fit rear-ends and oh my goodness, have you seen this crazy "Best Bottom in the World" contest?

Apparently "Boom Boom" has the distinction of being American Apparel's current top-rated bottom. Their, sort of crazy, contest is looking for the "Best Bottom in the World." (Funny, and maybe a clever marketing stunt, yes, but it also bugs me the way contests like this dissect women's bodies--you know? Sorry, just irks me!)

Speaking of bottoms, have you noticed that butt-blasting fitness and "get back into your skinny jeans" fitness programs are everywhere? (Sort of makes me think I need to pay more attention to my rear-end!) One way to trim your tush? Sign up for Body by Glamour, of course! WebMD also took a look at butt fitness recently (yes, butt fitness), and shared some pointers on improving your rump. Here's what they had to say:

The Hidden Health Issue He’s Not Talking About: Male Eating Disorders

While clinical reports say that one out of ten patients with an eating disorder is male, many researchers and clinical psychologists estimate that number to be much greater, largely due to cultural differences between men and women. Generally speaking, the media portrays the societal ideal for men as muscular, strong, and athletic, emphasizing body mass and definition versus weight loss, the primary focus for women.

Along with striving to attain this highly desired masculine physique, maintaining “masculine behavior” is also often highly valued, which would stereotypically dismiss freely discussing emotions and psychological problems and shun the idea of seeking help. However, these behaviors perpetuate the perhaps false notion that anorexia and bulimia are predominantly female issues.

The Health Benefits of Yogurt

One of the most commonly eaten snacks is also one of the healthiest foods available, if you pick the right one. Yogurt's nutritional content includes vitamin B12, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), zinc, potassium, protein and molybdenum.

Because of these ingredients, yogurt has numerous health benefits, including providing protection against ulcers, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and regulating cholesterol levels. That's not all; yogurt contains healthy bacteria which have been proven to boost immune system response and promote digestive regularity.

Choosing the best yogurt for you

The easiest rule of thumb to follow when choosing a yogurt that will provide the most health benefits is to look for the least processed types, with no added flavors or sugars. Greek yogurt is a great option. It is typically plain and available in a low-fat version.

The Health Benefits of Fish Oil

Every time I read the statistics about fish oil or see headlines such as “Fish Oil Helps ADHD”, “Survive Depression with Fish Oil”, and “Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease with Fish Oil”, I begin to think, is fish oil really that great? To get the answer to this question, first we have to understand what fish oil contains that can purportedly help all these ailments.

Fish oil comes from the tissues of an oily fish and is recommended for a healthy diet because it contains omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid, all of which reduce inflammation in the body. The funny part is fish do not actually produce omega-3- they eat it! Predatory fish like albacore tuna, salmon and mackerel eat microalgae, which contain the fatty acids, and we in turn eat those fish.

The Health Benefits of Dry Skin Brushing

Did you know the skin is the largest organ in the human body and is responsible for ? of the body’s detoxification each day?  It is also the most important elimination organ and gets rid of approximately two pounds of waste acids a day.

The skin receives one third of all the blood that circulates in the body and is the first organ to show signs of imbalance. For this reason, dry brushing is one of the most simple at home methods of promoting overall health.

Dry brushing benefits:

Helps to shed dead skin cells to eliminate clogged pores, improve skin texture and promote cell renewal

Increases circulation and lymph movement to encourage metabolic waste elimination

The Healing Power of Nature

"Within each of us, nature has provided all the pieces of the puzzle necessary to achieve exceptional health and wellness then let it up to us to put them all together."

~ Diane McLaren

Following this principle includes getting enough sleep, exercising, feeding the body nutritional food and, if needed, additional ‘earth food’, such as herbs.

Herbal plants can gently assist the body without the side effects posed by some synthetic chemicals in modern pharmaceuticals. The emphasis in holistic health is on building health, not only on fighting illness.

This is achieved by creating a healthy lifestyle and healthy relationships.

The Effects of Diet on ADHD

While prescription medications are often used for their fast results, ease of use and availability, studies show that nutritional intake can have significant effects on behavior—without the drugs, which can cause side effects and mask symptoms, rather than address the problem itself.

Making changes in diet may be a trial and error process to uncover the best approach. People may be affected differently from additives to sugar, which can cause mixed behaviors, from hyperactivity to cognitive functioning.

Most of us can relate to the effects food can have on behaviors from comparing how we feel after eating a meal consisting of fresh, unprocessed foods like vegetables or broiled fish versus a high-fat, sugar-laden meal from a fast food chain. Often after eating the latter, our body feels sluggish, weak, and often plagued by indigestion. For someone suffering from symptoms of ADD/ADHD, it can thus be seen how increasing intake of substances that alter behaviors in a negative way is thus detrimental. Furthermore, since food is such a factor that we have relatively high control over, why not consider experimenting with it?

The Downside of Fad Diets – How to Lose Weight the Healthy Way

It seems that every week, especially during the summer months, the latest celebrity weight loss ‘secrets’ or fast-track diets are promoted. However, the consequences and long-term results of these often risky weight loss methods are rarely mentioned. While it may seem tempting to try these fads to slim down for swimsuit season, it certainly isn’t worth compromising your health!

False Positives

Many of these lose-weight-quick schemes result in the shedding of water weight, which is quickly gained back once regular eating is resumed (one cannot live on grapefruits or a liquid diet forever!). In addition, starvation-type diets that may offer quick results are very detrimental to the metabolism and lead to subsequent weight gain- often leading to not only gaining back the weight that was lost, but increasing the original number on the scale!

The Best D-fense against Colds

Forget C. It's vitamin D that appears to mount the strongest defense against the common cold. When investigators from the University of Colorado in Denver asked 19,000 people of all ages about their health habits and then took blood samples, they discovered that those with the lowest level of vitamin D reported 40% more respiratory problems, including more frequent colds, than those who had normal D levels. D-deficient asthmatics really struggled: They were five times more likely to have had a recent respiratory infection -- and among those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who were also low on D, respiratory infections were twice as common.

The Beautiful Side of Avocados

Ranked by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's most nutritious fruit, avocados offer a wealth of health and beauty benefits. Beloved around the world for their buttery richness and subde nutty flavor, avocados are the fruit of Persea americana, a tall evergreen tree native to the subtropical Americas.

Health Benefits Galore

Until fairly recently, avocados were shunned because of their high fat content -- almost three-quarters of an avocado is pure fat. But the fat found in avocados is of the healui-protective monounsaturated variety, primarily oleic acid. Avocados contain more than 20 beneficial nutrients, including potassium, folate, copper, and vitamins C, B6, E and K.

The Artery-Clogging Menace: Trans Fat

Trans fat has become the toxic waste of our heart-smart, weight-watching world.

Dr. Nate E. Lebowitz, a cardiologist at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center (N.J.), even goes so far as to compare artificial trans fat cooking and baking oils to arsenic.

"There literally is not much difference," said Lebowitz, associate chief of cardiology. Trans fat "is just a slower killer" than arsenic, he said.

He tells his patients to read ingredient labels and look out for trans fats, also called trans fatty acids, as well as partially hydrogenated oil. "This stuff is literally poison," he said. "If you see it, put it back on the shelf, run away and wash your hands."

The Anatomy of Arthritis

The numbers can rattle you down to your bones if you let them. Millions upon millions of adults now suffer from arthritis from all around the globe. The numbers are much worse when you consider that arthritis pain and other arthritis symptoms are so hard to live with.

Arthritis symptoms can include debilitating pain in your joints and in your bones. It can lead to the inability to move certain limbs or extreme stiffness in others.

Arthritis pain could steal your ability to feed yourself with utensils, to be able to pick up your grandchildren, or to even get out of bed in the morning.

Teens and Weight Management

Adolescence is unquestionably a difficult time for most teens, from the emotional to the physical changes that accompany growing up. Of these changes, one of the biggest challenges for kids and teens today is weight management. According to the CDC,  childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years.

This should be of great concern to parents, as obesity frequently becomes a lifelong struggle, often leading to other serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Helping your child establish healthy relationships with food and exercise are key to successful weight management in both the short and long-term, and set the foundation for healthy adult habits. Preparing healthy meals and encouraging time for physical activity can help overcome some of  these challenges, and can also help you stay on track, too!

Supersize This: Some More Susceptible to Obesity Than Others

If you'd bumped into nursing student Adde Karimi last September, he probably wouldn't have had much time to chat. He was too busy stuffing his face with burgers, cola and milkshakes. It takes a lot of planning to get 6,600 calories of junk food down you in a day, he explains.

If you're not a born glutton, serious overeating also requires a high level of commitment. Karimi's motivation was commendable. "I did it because I wanted to hate this type of food," he says. He also did it for science.

Karimi was a volunteer in an experiment based on the 2004 documentary "Super Size Me." In the movie, filmmaker Morgan Spurlock spent 30 days eating exclusively at McDonald's, never turning down an offer to "supersize" to a bigger portion, and avoiding physical exertion. Karimi followed a similar regime, gorging himself on energy-dense food and keeping exercise to a minimum.

Superfood News: Strawberries Fight Cold and Flu

One serving of eight medium strawberries contains 84 milligrams of Vitamin C and a boost against colds and flu, says a U.S. expert.

Considered a superfood, strawberries are loaded with nutrients, are low in sugar, and contain more Vitamin C than oranges, according to Dr. Navindra Seeram of the University of California Los Angeles Center for Human Nutrition.

Most people associate vitamin C with oranges, but if you look at oranges versus strawberries, ounce per ounce, strawberries actually contain more vitamin C than oranges, says Seeram.

Step-By-Step Guide to a Stroll

Just 30 minutes of moderate walking five days a week can have dramatic long-term health benefits -- reducing blood pressure, body fat and cholesterol levels, and our risks of developing heart disease, cancer and dementia -- according to Dr. Mark Hamer, an expert in exercise physiology at University College London.

"When we start to walk, the adrenal glands, situated close to the kidneys, release adrenaline into the blood, pushing up the heart rate and increasing blood supply to the major leg muscle groups, the quadriceps (thighs) and the calves (the backs of the lower legs)," he says.

"Breathing increases as the activity demands more oxygen supply to the muscles. The average person has a resting heart rate of around 75 beats per minute.

Stay Away High-Calorie Coffee Drinks

A cup of black coffee is almost calorie-free.  But, watch out.  Gourmet coffee drinks can pack more calories than a platter of deep-fat-fried onion rings, according to a new study from New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

A survey of customers at 42 Starbucks and 73 Dunkin’ Donuts in New York City found that servings of coffee or tea averaged only about 63 calories, even with the addition of milk and sugar -- so if you stop there, you are fine. However, blended drinks averaged 239 calories (approximately 90 more calories than found in a can of soda pop).

A large ice-blended drink contained 750 calories, and large blended drinks topped out at up to 880 calories - which is more than two Quarter Pounders at McDonalds! I don’t know about you, but I’d rather save my extra calories for a bite of delicious dark chocolate or glass of red wine ... which by the way comes in at a fraction of the calorie cost ... than a platter of onion rings disquised as a cup of coffee!

Spider Bites Have Unexpected Sexual Side Effects

If your guy gets freaked out by the sight of a big spider, he’s got a good reason.

The bite of the rather large banana spider, with a leg span that can be four to five inches long, causes hours-long erections. (Add your own joke here if you want.) But that’s not actually good news, because the condition, priapism, can be quite painful.  Other effects of the spider bite can be difficult breathing, loss of muscle control, and even death by oxygen deprivation.

The spider gets its name from the fact that it hangs out on banana plantations in the tropics. It can then hitch a ride on bunches of bananas that end up in supermarkets, assuming the crawlies aren’t spotted in transit. And you’re not safe just because you don’t live near banana-boat unloading docks.  Banana spiders have been spotted in stores in Oklahoma and Canada.

Spicy Ways to Fight Arthritis

For centuries, spices have been used to preserve food and enhance its flavor, and as remedies for a long list of ailments. With the rise of allopathic medicine, much of that folk wisdom fell out of favor, and spices were replaced with prescription drugs.

Today the pendulum is swinging back, and researchers are confirming what herbalists have known all along -- the spice rack can be as potent as a medicine chest. Spices are rich sources of antioxidants and phytochemicals, both of which help our cells repair damage while easing symptoms of many common conditions. "They're powerhouses of pleasure and health," observes Victoria Zak, author of The Magic Teaspoon (Penguin Group, 2006).

Spice Up Your Life With Curry

As National Curry Week starts we show you how your favorite spicy meal can boost your health.

Tumeric: The yellow spice that gives curry its color has long been used worldwide as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial agent, thanks to a chemical in it called curcumin. Curcumin is also thought to be able to protect liver and kidney function, ward off Alzheimer's disease and even kill cancer cells.

Chili: Chilis raise the heart rate, increase perspiration and release endorphins due to capsaicin, a substance which gives chilis their "heat." Capsaicin is commonly used as a painkiller to help manage arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, shingles, postmastectomy pain and headaches as it depletes the level of pain-perception molecules in the bloodstream. But the pepper component also dilates the blood vessels, thereby increasing blood circulation and reducing blood pressure. It may also help stave off cancer. Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center discovered capsaicin can kill off prostate cancer cells in the laboratory, although further human trials are needed. 

Soy Products: What You Need to Know

Soy foods are turning up in more forms, in more markets. Some soy foods bear government authorized labels noting that soy protein can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by lowering blood cholesterol.

In order to claim the healthy effects of soy, a product must meet the following criteria (per serving):

6.25 grams soy protein or more

Low fat (less than three grams)

Low saturated fat (less than one gram)

Low cholesterol (less than 20 milligrams)

Foods made with whole soybeans may also qualify for the health claim if they contain no fat in addition to that present in the soybeans. These would include soy foods such as tofu, a white bean curd that can be marinated and saut

Soy Milk Makes a Splash

Consumed in China for centuries, soymilk can be found in the refrigerated section or on dry shelves in all sorts of forms and flavors. And whether it comes plain or flavored, as a liquid or powder, or even in aseptic packages, which will keep for along time, soymilk can provide a host of health benefits -- and add a little jazz to your diet.

Tallying Up the Benefits

"Soy can definitely be a healthy addition to almost any diet," says Winnie Yu, author of "What to Eat for What Ails You." The plant protein is naturally low in saturated fat and contains a healthy dose of magnesium, riboflavin, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. Regular consumption of soy has been linked to the following:

Soy Diet May Ease Menopause

Leading researchers suggests that soy products may offer a gentle, safe and effective means of easing the hot flashes, depression and mood swings of menopause.

Dr. Dale Prokupek of the Division of Nutrition and Gasteroenterology at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles explains that soy foods contain high concentrations of plant estrogens with powerful hormone-balancing effects.

Prokupek recommends that women over age 40 consume four ounces of soy every day to ensure a healthier, easier change of life. He cited research showing that Japanese women, who regularly consume tofu, soybeans and soy milk rather than animal protein, report markedly fewer menopausal symptoms than American women. Prokupek and other experts contend that -- in certain cases -- a soy diet may provide an alternative to hormone replacement therapy, which remains a prime treatment method for menopausal women.

Soybeans Promise Pain Relief

Soybeans promise still another medical benefit. Recent studies have shown products from the multi-use plant can lower cholesterol and may lessen some symptoms of menopause. Now comes a report that soy derivatives may bring pain relief.

Scientists from Johns Hopkins and two Israeli universities say lab rats on a diet containing soy meal developed far less pain after nerve injury than rats on soy-free diets. The scientists say that's significant because of the similarities in the way humans and rats experience pain.

And, too, pain seems to have a variety of sources within the body, which explains why aspirin may work for inflammation but not for pain from a nerve injury.

Some People Should Just Keep Their Mouths Shut, Don't You Think?

Jenny McCarthy is outraged by comments that actor Denis Leary made in his new book Why We Suck: A Feel-Good Guide to Staying Fat, Loud, Lazy and Stupid. (Um, you could be outraged just by the title!). But when Denis wrote that people with autism are "... stupid. Or lazy. Or both," Jenny, who's the mother of an autistic child, let loose ...

"This community has been through so much and to compare and use the world 'dumb-a** lazy' with autism, it's just not fair," Jenny said to Access Hollywood's Billy Bush, explaining that the "autism community" has received more than 10,000 emails about Denis' comments, which have stirred up quite a bit of anger.

Soba Noodles with an Italian Twist

If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to spaghetti, try this garlic soba noodle recipe from 101cookbooks.com. This delicious dish puts an Italian twist on soba noodles, a staple in the Japanese diet.

Soba noodles are made with buckwheat and they're bursting with antioxidants that promote healthy digestion and prevent bad cholesterol from clogging blood vessels.

Ingredients

8 oz. dried soba noodles

3/4 cup bread crumbs

1/4 cup Parmesan freshly grated

big pinch of salt

12 ounces extra firm organic tofu, cut into 6 rectangular slabs

2 eggs, lightly beaten

a generous splash of olive oil

Sniff a Ripe Mango

One summer joy is the abundance of fruit in the markets. But if you're looking for exotics, how do you pick the best? When it comes to the more luscious, click to Mango, the site of the South African Mango Growers' Association.

Of course, mangoes are a summer fruit, and summer in South Africa is mid-winter in North America, but the wealth of information about the fruit applies wherever your market's mangoes grow. In addition to help in choosing a ripe mango, the site will give you nutrition information and tips for including mangoes in your menu.

Since mangoes vary in color from green to purplish red, determining ripeness can be a problem. Experts say mangoes are ready to eat if the flesh gives way slightly when you squeeze them gently. Growers suggest you ask your market's produce manager or greengrocer for help, because mangoes won't survive endless prodding and poking.

Sex Question: Could I Get Pregnant if My Boyfriend Pulls Out Before Ejaculation?

Dear Dr. Kate,

My boyfriend pulls out every time we have sex, but he ejaculates on or near my vagina. Could this make me pregnant?

Yes, though the chances aren't high. It is possible that when semen comes into contact with your own bodily fluids-even outside on your vulva-sperm could swim inside and head up towards your cervix. This is one of the reasons why the withdrawal method of birth control has such a high failure rate. Consider another form of birth control that will give you greater protection (condoms will also protect you against STDs). If you are relying on the pull-out method (which, let me say it again, I don't recommend!), have him ejaculate on your belly or off to the side instead of near your vagina.

Keeping Your Cognitive Abilities Intact

If you think living to be 100 or older is a long shot, think again.

Thanks to medicine and research, people are living to be much older by being a bit wiser and taking better care of themselves physically and mentally.

Nutrition experts recommend foods full of nutrients, antioxidants and minerals, often referred to as "super foods." Examples are berries, leafy greens, nuts, legumes and omega-3 fish available at stores such as Wild Oats. The natural and organic foods retailer is launching a campaign called Eating Well for Healthy Aging, to encourage people to engage in healthy nutrition.

A simple way to find healthy foods is by sight, said Sharon Stroud, certified nutritionist at Wild Oats in Tulsa, Okla.

Just Wondering: Do You Love It or Hate It When Your Yoga Teacher "Adjusts" You?

Charlotte over at The Great Fitness Experience wrote about the good, bad and just plain weird "touches" at the gym--the creepy guy who brushes up against you, the honest mistakes (like when you step off the treadmill and accidently collide with the gal behind you, grabbing her butt in the process), and the legitimate: your yoga teacher adjusting your form. But when it comes to teacher-student interaction, are you hands-off or hands-on?

Charlotte posted a good question: "My instructor never adjusts me. Is it appropriate to ask her to do so? She seems to be 'hands off' in general but otherwise a good teacher."

"I Survived the Gyno Visit"--Reader Update

Remember the recent health confession from a woman who is 31 and has never seen an OBGYN? She confessed that she was thinking of canceling her appointment this week, but thanks to the encouragement she got from all of you, she went! And, she's here to report back on the experience ...

"I went to the doctor, thanks in part to your readers," says the nervous patient. The veredict? Bad and good news, she says. "I hated every second of it. It was just as intrusive as I imagined it would be, and a little bit more painful. I can't say it was unbearable, or even truly painful, but I honestly felt attacked (and yes, I am a woose). Something I was not expecting was to have not only the doctor, but also a nurse involved in the pelvic exam. She was nice, but yikes! I don't even know her name and barely even saw her, but she definitely knows way too much about me now."

How Many Diets Have You Been on in the Past 5 Years?

A lot of my fitness clients over the years, including contestants on The Biggest Loser, had tried to lose weight or shape up so many times in the past before they finally made the change for good. Failures like that can be really hard to get over--you start to feel bad about yourself and expect that you're going to mess up. But I believe failure is an integral part of success. Find out why, take our poll and get a plan that works.

If you don't fail at least once (and this could be in your work life, in love, in weight loss) then you're probably not aiming high enough! If you are really living and really reaching for what you want, it's going to happen. It's happened to me so many times I've lost count! But here's how to use those flops to help you succeed:

Hot Fitness Gear: The Humble Foam Roller--Do You Have One?

Do you own a foam roller? It's one of those little fitness gadgets that might make you think, "hmm, do I really need that?" But, women who use them swear by them. Here's why ...

I'm kind of fascinated by foam rollers these days. Ever since I started running, my hips have been bothering me (likely IT band issues), and running gurus have advised me to stretch them out on foam rollers.

This fitness gadget can also help tone your abs (see the photo above), and can give a pretty good massage (just roll sore muscles over the roller). (The gals over at The Stir recently shared their love of foam rollers, too.)

Have You Ever Had an, Um, Accident?

In a recent post about laughter and happiness, one Vitamin G reader admitted that she laughed so hard that she accidentally peed her pants. Have you ever done that? If so, here's why you're not alone...

"Lily100" had this to say: "I made myself laugh so hard last night that I peed myself does that count? LOL! On my moms fine leather couch too! I was laughing so hard that it just...happened. I hate when that happens! I haven't wetted myself for so long since the last time I was at a slumber party..."

Haven't we all been there? According to this article, leaking while laughing is pretty common. When I was pregnant, sometimes a simple sneeze would lead to an almost-accident (a common complaint in the latter half of pregnancy).

Greens Hold the Vitamin Edge

The fad these days seems to be to turn to the pill bottles to replenish the body's supply of vitamins and other nutrients. But health expert Angela Dowden says good old common Brussels sprouts and other green vegetables can do the job even better -- and help keep you weight down in the process.

Admittedly, sprouts aren't everyone's favorite food, but Dowden says they supply more Vitamin C than oranges as well as "a wealth of anti-cancer compounds," including indoles, which may help protect against breast and ovarian cancers. And at only 31 calories for an average portion, the oft-castigated vegetable is an ideal addition to any weight-losing diet.

Get Britney Spears' Comeback Body

Britney Spears is back! After having a "hell of a year," the star has bounced back healthier, happier and fitter than ever. She talks about her long journey in an exclusive Glamour interview--along with just how she changed her Cheeto-eating ways. Planning your own comeback? Then you'll love these Britney-inspired moves to get your body back...

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There's something about Britney's road to recovery (and I use that term universally here) that is inspiring to me. After two kids, a very public divorce and some questionable personal decisions, she has reclaimed her life and pulled herself back up. Haven't we all been there in some way?

Gardening: A Boon for Bones

Lots of ThirdAgers enjoy getting their hands dirty while pulling up weeds and planting flowers. Well, a University of Arkansas study says they are on the right track, specifically when it comes to their bones. The researchers found that women 50 and older who gardened at least once a week had higher bone density than those who jogged, walked, swam or did aerobics.

Lori Turner, assistant professor of health sciences at the university, has spent many years researching ways to prevent loss of bone density in older women. She told ThirdAge News the results initially surprised her. "I had just started doing gardening myself," she said. "I just thought it wasn't as involved as it is." But, she said, landscaping gave her a "new appreciation for all the hard physical work that goes into gardening."

Fruits and Veggies: Mom Was Right

Occasionally, a scientific study will confirm what common sense -- and your mother -- told you all along. In this case, Italian researchers, writing in the May issue of the journal Epidemiology, say eating plenty of fruit and vegetables can keep you healthy.

The study of more than 4,500 people with breast, colon or rectal cancer and 5,000 cancer-free patients found that certain vegetables are more healthy than fruit and even other vegetables. The research found that raw carrots offered the greatest amount of protection against all three cancers.

The researchers say vegetables are higher than fruit in cancer-fighting vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and folic acid. They add that dipping raw vegetables in vegetable oil may additionally reduce the risk of some cancers.

Fats That Heal

We all know that too much fat can kill us. But what we may not know is that there are fats that are beneficial for our health, if taken in an appropriate manner.

Canadian nutritionist Udo Erasmus is a firm believer that humans need to avoid fats that kill -- the trans fatty acids. But he also believes we need to increase our intake of fats that heal -- the essential fatty acids.

"Humans need the right amount of fats and oils in their diet -- between 15 and 20 percent -- and these fats must be of the right kind," he explained.

In comparison, trans fatty acids raised the risks of cardiovascular disease, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, premenstrual syndrome, cancer, weight increase and a host of other degenerative diseases.

Did Your Parents Let You Eat Junk Food as a Kid?

When I was growing up, my parents had the "fun" house. Translation: We had every kind of junk food imaginable. My friends loved to come over and raid the cabinets for cookies, soda, candy and chips. And that's why I'm convinced I'm a healthy eater today. Bear with me...

Yes, I still have a soft spot for orange junk food. But I have developed strategies (like hiding bags of chips) to keep overeating in check. Plus, because junk food was never banned growing up, my sister and I never binged on cookies like our other friends.

Yesterday, I came across this hilarious essay in The New York Times Magazine about a kid who has to sneak junk food because his parents won't let him have it. He trades homework for Pringles, goes to sleepovers so he can have chocolate and secretly devours entire tubs of cheese puffs with his dad on the way home from the grocery store. But with all things taboo, the allure of pizza, fries and ranch dressing wore off when he was an adult and could make his own food choices.

Crazy Attempts to Satisfy a Food Craving--Have You Done This?

Recently I caught a rerun of the Oprah Show--an episode where she was talking about this quirky thing she does when she has a craving for something (let's say chocolate cake) and there's none of it in the house and (and her personal chef has gone home for the night). The thing she admits to doing is something I think many of us have done--and it spells trouble for our waistlines ...

OK, so back to Oprah (and I really can't remember what it was she was craving that she described on the show, so let's stick with the chocolate cake example). So, there she is standing in her kitchen dying for chocolate cake, which she doesn't have--so she tries to recreate it. And I'm not talking about baking.

Concerned About Carbs

For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting medical studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

4. The Italians drink excessive amounts of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

Break Away From Junk Break

Do you get a gnawing feeling about 3:30 p.m. that sends you to the candy machine by 4? Would you like to break the junk food break habit?

Let Healthy Living help. According to Ted Spiker, author of "Break That Habit: Eating Junk at 4 p.m.," you start by eating lunch.

Even if you're trying to lose weight, you must eat breakfast and lunch to avoid feeling famished in the afternoon. Since your body needs to eat every three to four hours, be prepared for an afternoon slump, says Spiker.

Load your desk with healthy snacks -- he recommends a few -- and take your time eating them. Eating in a leisurely way communicates to your brain that you are full.

Breakfast at Your Desk: The New Research That Makes Bacon Look ... Healthy?

OK, so the headline's a tad misleading--sorry. I couldn't resist using "bacon" and "healthy" in the same sentence. But, the saturated fat in bacon, and other foods, is at the center of a debate among health experts right now after one study seems to say that saturated fat doesn't contribute to heart disease. I know, confusing! I have details ...

It's Heart Health month, and here we are getting some conflicting information about saturated fat and heart disease. The American Hearth Association has long warned that adults should get no more than 7 percent of their daily calories from fat--no more than about 16 grams of saturated fat a day. But wait, a new analysis of 21 previous studies seems to hint that saturated fat isn't the big evil monster we thought it was. In fact, researchers found "no clear evidence" that higher saturated fat intakes led to higher risks of heart disease or stroke.

Breakfast at Your Desk: These Yummy Bananas Prove That All Bananas Are Not Created Equal

A banana is a banana is a banana, right? I beg to differ. For the last 8 years, I have been smitten with a certain variety of banana that you can find at most grocery stores, but may not have noticed until now ...

Ever since my honeymoon in Tahiti, I've been crazy for miniature bananas (I'm sure they have an official name, but I don't know it!). You can find them at almost any grocery store, and while they may be a little pricier than regular, full-sized bananas, these are worth a few pennies more. They are sweeter and tastier, and if I had to describe the flavor difference, I'd say that they taste like they have notes of lemon and vanilla. They are really a treat! (And you know how much we love bananas on this blog!)

Breakfast at Your Desk: It May Sound Odd, But Scrambled Tofu Is Really Good!

Have you ever scrambled tofu? I happen to love this for breakfast. And you don't have to be a huge fan of tofu to enjoy it. I promise, it's good! Here's how ...

Here's how:

*Cube up some firm tofu and break it up in a frying pan with a wooden spoon. Be sure you coat the pan with a little bit of olive or canola oil.

*Add in some diced onions, tomatoes, green peppers or other veggies.

*Mix in some light soy sauce (I like tamari), garlic powder, and black pepper if you like.

Serve whit whole-grain toast. Yum!

Enjoy!

P.S. More healthy breakfast ideas: baked eggs (fancy, easy!), goat's milk yogurt (I tried it!), and a tasty to-go smoothie for busy mornings ...

Breakfast at Your Desk: Is Your Cereal "Healthy or Crappy?" One Blogger Has the Perfect Test

When it comes to breakfast, a lot of women get fooled by so-called healthy cereals. If you're scratching your head about what constitutes a healthy bowl, check out one food blogger's fab cheat sheet that we all can use ...

I love Lisa from Snack Girl. Her posts are always so informative, like the recent post she did on cereal. She devised the "healthy or crappy cereal test" to help her readers, and herself, sort through the muck on the cereal aisle, and I agree with her criteria entirely (though, you can still find some terrific low-sugar raisin brans hovering around 10 grams of sugar--I wouldn't count those out):

A Victoria's Secret Model Admits to Loving Fried Chicken--What's Your Unhealthiest Fave Food?

Do you know someone who can eat whatever she wants and not gain weight? Recently, a Victoria's Secret model spoke out about her favorite snack food--fried chicken. I think we can all be a little envious. File this one under the category "not fair"...

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She's gorgeous and in great shape, but not because she gets an A+ for healthy eating. Victoria's Secret model Miranda Kerr says she's a fiend for fried chicken! "My favorite snack is fried chicken," she said, adding "I make it myself!"

OK, so maybe her recipe is a low-fat version? Other self-described fried chicken lovers include 50 Cent, Rihanna, Michael Jackson and Jennifer Lopez.

Appetites Grow for Organics

Organic -- it's a lifestyle and rallying cry for devout environmentalists and alluring to high-end suburban shoppers, yet somehow reminiscent of a barefoot hippie standing ankle-deep in mud. But what does it mean?

"Organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones.... Conventional pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bio-engineering, or ionizing radiation."

That's the legal definition formulated by regulators at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Simple, right?

"'Local' to many people, they think it's organic, but it's not," says Annie Malka, owner of Annie's Buying Club, a Tavernier, Fla.-based cooperative purveyor of organic fruits and veggies. "There is a certification."

Anti-Gravity Therapy Benefits Baby Boomers

Physical therapy can be a long and grueling process, especially for people recovering from a serious injury. But a new treatment, anti-gravity therapy, takes the stress of gravity out of the equation, making it safer and more efficient than traditional physical therapy -- or even water therapy.

When Sheldon Woller fell from a ladder and broke his pelvis and right thigh bone, the 66-year-old feared weeks of cold parallel bars and painful physical therapy.

Instead, Woller used an anti-gravity treadmill that made him almost weightless as he rebuilt his strength and balance. Seven months after his fall, Woller walks without crutches.

5 a Day: Weird Health News Roundup

Yesterday we learned that brainy men have better sperm (I know, whoa), but just when you thought news couldn't get any more weird/surprising/whatever--wait until you see these headlines...

Snoring sucks, but it has a benefit: According to researchers, people who are intense snorers burn 374 calories more per day than people who don't snore. Nuts!

Bad news for romantic comedy lovers: You've Got Mail, Notting Hill, Maid in Manhattan, While You Were Sleeping--all cute rom-coms, but they could ruin your love life, say researchers, by setting you up for false expectations about relationships, sex and true love.

5 a Day: Five Good Things to Know--Now!

Hi everyone! Here's an interesting roundup of health news for you as you finish up the day. Enjoy!

Is Strictly Fat-Free Ever a Good Idea? Ever wonder if choosing zero-fat foods will really help with your weight loss efforts or just backfire and make you hungrier? Check out this FitSugar post.

Lose Your Power? Beware of the Fridge. As we welcome stormy weather season, many of us deal with occasional power flickers and all-out outages. So how long is too long for mayo to sit in a warm fridge? Here's an article that might give you some help.

The Food Poisoning You've Never Heard of. You know about E.Coli and salmonella, but how about scombroid poisoning? Yep, didn't think so. Check out Health.com blogger Amy O'Connor's post about her bout of scombroid after eating tuna.

5 a Day: 5 Tips for New Runners

At some point every year, I renew a vow to myself that I have broken more times than I can count. I tell myself, "I'm going to start running again!" Do you get his way, too? Whether you're a non-committed runner (um, me) or newbie, there are some things you should keep in mind before hitting the pavement.

Get new shoes: Actually, splurge on them. Appropriate shoes will help prevent injury. And, kind of like changing the oil in your car, some experts even say to replace them every 300 miles.

Set a schedule: Want to stick to your new running goals? Then set aside time for running and make it part of your life, and don't deviate. Soon, it will become "like brushing your teeth" as one running guru puts it.

Breakfast At Your Desk: Don't These Little Egg Cups Look Tasty?

Morning guys! I was sleuthing around for a new twist on eggs and toast recently and found this yummy creation--had to share it with you!
Have a muffin pan? Then you can easily make this fun breakfast, which I read about over on Martha Stewart's EverydayFood.com (don't you love this magazine? I'm obsessed!). Egg and toast fans, you're going to love this: Baker's Dozen Eggs!
The easy how to? In a muffin pan that's been sprayed with cooking spray, fold a piece of whole wheat bread into each opening, then crack and egg in each, sprinkle some cheese and herbs and bake! The bread gets toasty, the egg gets over-easy, and the result is yum. (OK so the original recipe does call for heavy cream and pancetta, but we'll keep things light, right?)
Such a good idea!
Enjoy, and happy Monday morning to you!