Choose Health and Happiness

How Sleep Effects Weight Loss

2015-07-27T15:12:00.001-05:00

If you're like most people in today's modern life, sleep is not really something that you think about often, and you likely do not get enough. Despite the obvious effects of too little sleep; diminished strength, impaired reflexes, faulty decision making and broken spirit, studies show that nearly 3/4 of adults in the U.S. get less than 6 hours of sleep a night. (Katherine Harmon, "How Slight Sleep Deprivation Could Add Extra Pounds," Scientific American, October 24, 2012)

For years I've tried to force myself to bed earlier, but with the busy lifestyle and lack of family time available, I tend to always fall back on the old habit of staying up later than I should just to squeeze in a few more minutes with family and friends all at the expense of my health. Burning the candle at both ends and using work and responsibility as my excuse to reboot with sugary snacks and caffeine only served to exacerbate the problems with excessive weight gain and continual exhaustion. So what exactly are the benefits of getting enough sleep and how can we use that to our advantage when it comes to our weight loss goals?

A good night's sleep means a stronger ego with greater powers of concentration and self-control. These are exactly the traits needed to follow through on any kind of behavioral change. Any self-improvement goal will be much easier to achieve if we get a good night's rest. Trying to lose weight while cheating on sleep is nearly impossible because starting your day already energy deficient only leads you to compensate your lack of energy with food cravings in the absence of hunger. We mistake it for hunger, but what's really happening is you're not hungry, your tired.

Two recent studies published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition studied the caloric intake of participants after 8 hour and 5.5 hour sleeps. Both studies found that after reduced sleep the participants consumed a significantly higher caloric amount (almost 500 more in men). The worst part was that they were mostly snacks and carbohydrates. An additional study by Stanford University showed that people who get less than 8 hours of sleep per night have a significantly higher Body Mass Index than those who slept 8 or more hours per night. Additionally, the study found that sleeping less than 7.7 hours per night caused a hormonal imbalance that led to increased appetite and reduced satisfaction. Yikes, that's a pretty lethal combination for anyone wishing to decrease their weight.

So what are some things we can do to help us get more sleep?

1. Plan Ahead. One of the biggest things that I was able to change was my nightly routine. I noticed that falling asleep on the couch had a huge effect on my sleep levels because it was easier than facing the daunting tasks I needed to do prior to going to bed. Once I got up off the couch and finalized everything that needed to be done like brushing my teeth, cleaning the last bit of supper from the kitchen and getting the dogs settled I was wide awake again and struggle getting to sleep when my head actually hit the pillow. By preparing all of those things in advance and getting things done prior to sitting down for my nightly glass of wine and TV time I was able to be more disciplined in getting up and going straight to bed when I began to feel drowsy.

2. Know the difference between hunger and fatigue. Often times I would feel myself craving a nightly snack loaded with sugary carbs. After I became aware of this I was able to measure based on the absence of hunger pangs that my cravings were based more on wanting something to give my body energy to stay awake rather than true hunger. By choosing to turn off the lights and go to sleep instead of eating to stay awake I was able to significantly increase my sleep time by almost and hour and a half per night and reduce my caloric intake a great deal. This added up to a huge amount of extra sleep over the week and savings on weekly calories.

3. Think ahead for the next day. Often times I caught myself having to wake up extra early to get prepared for my day. By choosing to prepare my clothes for the next day, preparing lunches and other items needed in advance, I was able to give myself some additional sleep time in the mornings and an additional advantage was that my mornings were much less stressful which led to better moods and a more productive feeling of accomplishment. Being empowered by these benefits gave me a better ability to face the temptations throughout the day when it came to food choices.

Sleep is so undervalued in our workaholic culture, but it can be a true secret weapon for those of us who appreciate it's advantages. Sleep is the the main ingredient to productive waking hours and it is obviously one of the most important parts of any weight loss program. I mean who wakes up rested and breaks a resolution? No one. It's only when we get tired and our defenses are low that we tend to lose our willpower over temptations so remember to rest up because life is waiting.

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

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Why Do We Fail At Our Goals?

2015-07-13T11:56:00.003-05:00

Why is it so hard to complete our goals? We are motivated and full of determination but yet it always seems that we eventually falter and fall short of the mark. The really bad part is that every time we fail we feel more powerless that we will actually ever accomplish what we want to do. We begin to believe that we will never find success in reaching our goals. Sound familiar?

Even highly successful, disciplined people fail at self-improvement goals. I consider myself to be pretty determined and I’ve accomplished a lot in my life. I’ve authored a book that took 10 years for me to write, I built a successful gym from the ground floor that is still going after 25 years, I’ve spoken before congress and successfully convinced the Governor of Texas to veto a bill that was against his best interest politically, I’ve raised a beautiful daughter that is now hugely successful and I’ve had a loving and successful marriage for 24 years. I really don’t know how to fail. Everything I do in my life is a commitment I make to be ALL IN, but yet I fall short of my goals for self-improvement all the time. I try as hard as I can and I use all the willpower I can muster up to accomplish what I told myself I was going to do, and yet I eventually fall short.

What if instead of suffering a collapse of willpower after weeks of exhausting effort we could strategically plan small, measurable steps daily that could keep us on track without having to fight our obvious habits that are ingrained in our DNA? Would that be something that you would consider?

Let’s look at how habits create our behaviors.

British Researchers recently summarized in a study published in Health Psychology, “[habit] automaticity may be broken down into a number of features: lack of awareness, mental efficiency, lack of control and lack of conscious intent.” In other words, we don’t think before we act. We just do. We are unaware that there is an autopilot of habits built in us from continuously repeating the same actions based on a specific mental or visual cue that prompts us to take a certain action. Most of the time we aren’t even aware that is what we are doing, but it is still true, nonetheless. For us to break this cycle of habitual behavior it takes real effort and most of the time causes serious mental stress that eventually cause our willpower to lose out to our habits and patterns. It’s only natural that we are going to fail when it comes to vague goals that are really more like long-term projects rather than short goals that can be measured daily.

“I am going to lose weight.” Hmm, well lets see that requires you to change your exercise habits, eating habits and your vitamin regimen, which you may have had from childhood. What if instead, we were able to choose one thing that we could do daily for 30 days that would actually make a dent in that long-term goal? Suppose you examine your life and realize that for the past 10 years you have been skipping breakfast and then by 10am you are grabbing a donut out of the break room because your hunger pangs are just too much to resist. What if you could, instead, commit to eating a healthy breakfast at home daily and forego the sugary donut. Just that one change could potentially save you hundreds of daily calories. It’s simple, it’s measurable and your success is guaranteed every day you get up and eat from home. Yes, you will face some obstacles along the way, but with the right mental cue when you see the donut, you can create a habit that will last and over time make a huge impression on your goal to “lose weight.”

Today examine how your habits are creating you, and determine which ones are causing you to fall short of your goals. Write them down because when you are aware of your habits you can actually begin to choose small, measurable daily goals to create change instead of feeling defeated by your huge project goal.

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

For more information on health and happiness go to www.coachellen.idlife.com and take your FREE, HIPAA compliant health assessment and lifestyle report.

The Benefits of Creatine

2015-07-02T17:15:00.001-05:00

Creatine has long been utilized by those serious about weightlifting, strength training and athletics as a supplement to maximize their performance. Many people erroneously believe that it is a muscle building supplement in the same vein as whey protein isolate. While studies show that creatine does exhibit traits that assist the building of muscle, it most directly increases athletic performance by providing skeletal muscles with additional energy in order to increase maximum power and performance in high-intensity anaerobic work.

Creatine is actually produced by the human body - it occurs naturally in vertebrates, helping to provide energy to cells especially in the muscle. It achieves this through a relatively simple reaction. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) transports chemical energy - however, when muscles are at rest, the concentration of ATP therein is only enough to provide a few seconds of contraction. When there are increased energy demands, however, phosphocreatine reacts with adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to create additional ATP. These bonds are temporary, and the compounds eventually return to their normal state.

As early as the beginning of the twentieth century, scientists discovered that ingesting creatine can greatly increase the body’s natural stores of the compound. Then, in the 1990s, successes in high-visibility events such as the Olympics by athletes that had begun using creatine proved that the supplement has a positive effect on athletic performance. Studies done since then have shown just how dramatic those benefits can be. One review of 22 studies showed an 8% gain in maximum strength and 14% increase in number of repetitions during resistance training with sub-maximal loads. Another review showed that 70% of creatine studies reported seeing a beneficial effect on high intensity training. In one case, creatine supplementation was seen to increase anaerobic power output by as much as 18%.

These impressive gains seem to be particular to the short, intense bursts of activity that anaerobic activity consists of. Weight lifting seems particularly well suited to reaping the benefits of creatine supplementation. In the steady and longer duration aerobic activities such as endurance sports and training, there is little evidence that creatine has an advantageous effect. This would make sense, as ATP production in the aerobic system occurs through a different process altogether.

In normal doses and in healthy adults, studies indicate that short term creatine supplementation is entirely safe. Side effects such as muscle cramps and upset stomach have been reported (mostly when too large a dose has been ingested) but are not the norm. And while studies show no evidence of creatine supplementation causing damage to healthy kidneys, studies suggest that the supplement may exacerbate the symptoms of particular kidney diseases such as polycystic kidney disease and kidney disorders characterized by tissue swelling. As a result, it is suggested that individuals with compromised kidneys refrain from using creatine supplements, as well as those with serious renal disorders. By and large, however, it seems that creatine is a legitimate and safe method for increasing high intensity anaerobic performance.

As with all supplements, locating high quality, well researched examples is a must. One such example is IDLife’s Pre Workout formula. As with many premium formulas, the creatine monohydrate within is combined with other ingredients to create an effective and well-balanced supplement. It is also included in formulas meant to be taken following athletic activity (e.g. IDLife Post Workout) to take advantage of its traits that promote muscle building. To get the most out of your workouts, seeing if creatine is right for you would be highly recommended.

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve!

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www.coachellen.idlife.com

Are Sports Drinks Safe for Your Child?

2015-06-12T16:39:00.001-05:00

Every day, we are bombarded with advertisements for a plethora of sports drinks. Though Gatorade and Powerade overwhelmingly dominate the landscape, there are many more lesser known brands with similar compositions. As these drinks have been studied and their ingredients more closely looked at, health professionals have begun to warn consumers about their possible dangers and negative side effects. It turns out that they may not be the best choice of hydration in most situations and can be especially harmful to children.

What may surprise many is that one of the main culprits is an astounding amount of sugars and/or artificial sweeteners. One 32 oz bottle of a sports drink can contain as much as 200 calories, many of which come from up to 52g of sugar. That’s not far behind the amount found in soda pops such as Coca-Cola and well above the American Heart Association’s recommended daily allowance.

Why so much? This amount of fast-burning sugar taken before and during the intense exertion of professional athletes and others doing lengthy high intensity activities - the individuals these drinks were initially designed for - can be necessary. However, for most this is overkill - especially when considering more than one will often be consumed. When used as simply a thirst quencher, these drinks can actually contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes. This is especially true in children. The inclusion of High Fructose Corn Syrup in many of these drinks exacerbates the problem. So then low-calorie sports drinks are the way to go, right? Not at all - these come with their own dangers.

Low calorie sports drinks are no less sweet than their counterparts (and often even more so) - this is due to the use of artificial sweeteners. Sucralose may be the most popular - it is many hundred times as sweet as natural sucrose and as the majority of it is not broken down by the body, it is non-caloric. That also means, however, that it does not provide any energy. Some studies have also shown sucralose to be linked with weight gain, to affect glycemic and insulin responses and to remove beneficial intestinal bacteria. Concerns about the possibly carcinogenic nature of other artificial sweeteners such as acesulfame potassium persist as well as research suggesting some may affect prenatal development.

Another ingredient of sports drinks that can have negative side effects is the artificial coloring that gives them their distinctive hues. Considered ‘food grade,’ they are cleared for use by the FDA. However, many European countries have banned a number of food dyes still used in the United States and certain dyes have been linked to hyperactive behavior in children, asthma and other allergies, insomnia, thyroid tumors, chromosomal damage and cancer.

Many other causes for concern have been raised about the make up of sports drinks. Their acidic nature throws the mouth’s pH balance off, with the acid destroying tooth enamel and contributing to dental erosion (Harvard Public School of Health). Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO), used solely to prevent separation of ingredients can negatively affect the thyroid and is banned in many countries across the world other than the United States. Monopotassium Phosphate, used as a potassium source, carries the risk of upsetting the calcium/phosphate balance which can over time result in weakened bones.

Quite simply, the consensus seems to be these sports drinks should be drank sparingly by those doing long sessions of very intense athletic training - and preferably, not at all. The advertised necessity to ‘prevent thirst’ by drinking large amounts of the sugary and additive-filled beverages before and during exercise is a fallacy. If you believe you need an electrolyte booster, look into ones with natural ingredients and without added sugars. It may not taste like candy or be neon blue, but it’ll definitely be better for you!

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve!

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Customized Supplementation vs. Buying Over the Counter

2015-06-08T13:05:00.001-05:00

Perhaps the most important factor in maintaining a healthy lifestyle is proper nutrition. The foremost way to do this is, of course, ensure that your are purchasing and preparing healthy foods rich in all necessary nutrients. However, busy schedules, budget constraints and a myriad of other reasons can make it difficult to ensure that you are always receiving all nutrients and in sufficient amounts.

Nutritional supplements are widely recognized as an effective way to augment one’s diet - either through single-nutrient supplements (Iron, Vitamin C etc.) or compound supplements like multivitamins. However, in order to ensure you supplementation is both yielding optimal results and is completely safe, matching your nutritional supplements with your lifestyle, medical conditions and any medications that you may take is extremely important. Previously considered an opulent luxury, a customized supplement plan based on standardized testing should be strongly considered as it is not only beneficial to your health but now affordable as well.

Regardless of our best intentions and attempts, it is not possible as laymen to accurately pinpoint where our nutritional shortcomings are and what appropriate supplement dosages should be. Attempting to do so and address deficiencies by purchasing over-the-counter supplements is often at best inefficient and at worst, dangerous. With incorrect assumptions on deficiencies, large sums can be spent on vitamins and other supplements that are providing no help whatsoever. And by ingesting incorrect doses of supplements, needed or not, we may actually make ourselves ill, in extreme cases causing damage to our bodies and increasing our risk of cancer [University of Colorado Cancer Center ].

This is where testing comes in. A comprehensive nutritional assessment in the form of a questionnaire designed by medical professionals is the first step. It covers basic information such as sex, age, weight/height etc. as well as medical history, medications currently and previously taken, lifestyle and activity levels, habits, nutritional and sleep patterns and any other information deemed pertinent. Always ensure that any such health assessment is certified as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ) compliant as this act protects the public from, among other things, health care fraud and privacy violations [Tennessee Department of Health]. Following this, the information is plugged into an algorithm that takes over 7500 peer reviewed, third party scientific studies to recommend a customized nutritional supplementation program that will be specific to the individual and construct a complete profile. No more guessing. The report can be downloaded and used to make lifestyle changes and your supplements can be ordered, if you choose, and come shipped to you in a convenient strip pack with your name on each pack for evening and morning dosing.

Armed with this information, you can now be confident in what you are taking. Not only does the plan specifically target the areas where you most need nutritional fortification, there is no danger of interaction with prescription medications or exacerbation of medical conditions. Often overlooked, but equally important is the removal of the risk of over supplementation - a very real hazard with certain nutrients.

A customized nutrition supplement plan helps ensure that the level of vitamins, minerals, and all other nutrients in our bodies are at an optimum level, that our organs and vital systems are being properly supported and regulated and that, quite simply, we are nutritionally as healthy as we can possibly be!

Until next time keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve!

ELLEN MAY
INTEGRATIVE NUTRITIONIST AND EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Take your FREE HIPAA compliant health assessment at: http://www.coachellen.idlife.com/IDNutrition

You Know You Are "Next Gen" When….

2015-05-27T09:59:00.001-05:00

Those of us over 30 are just now coming around to accepting a world that doesn't include a 9 to 5 job and a Corporate America pension. We were trained as children to go to school then to college, get a job and work 40 hours a week only to find out after 30 years that our retirement isn't going to hold us over. Over 60% of the people who retire have to go back to a part time job just to make ends meet. The younger generations figured it out. Millions have been made from dorm rooms in colleges all over the country so today I thought I would give you 6 ways to tell if you are truly "Next Gen" or at least have the mindset of that generation.

You know you are "Next Gen" when….

1. You've watched as your roommate made his half of the rent from his mobile phone at starbucks.

2. You've listened to your professors speak of pensions, retirement plans and investments and thought of how ridiculous it is to worry about any of those things when you can generate enough income to retire working from your laptop in your p.j.'s in the time it takes for your professor to reboot his dinosaur computer.

3. You've had at least 3 business meetings over the beer pong table in the common room of your apartment complex.

4. You can generate more in 3 hours on the computer than your parents combined income for the year.

5. A 40 hour work week isn't even in your vocabulary and 9 to 5 is a Dolly Parton song.

6. Your parents think network marketing is a pyramid scheme, but you bought their last three Christmas gifts, birthday gifts and anniversary gifts with your check from your network marketing business.

I'm not so sure that the next generation has such a bad idea. We could learn a lot from their laid back, work from home mentality. So to the beer pong business meetings I say "Cheers!"

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

Are you a "Next Gen" looking for an opportunity? Go to www.satisfied.idlife.com to get started today.

Divine Motivation

2014-10-01T18:25:00.002-05:00

As I was speaking to a friend today, she inspired me to write today's blog topic on "Divine Motivation." Now I know some of you may not have the same Christian back ground that I have, however, this can still be applied to your belief system wether you believe your success comes from a desire that was already in you at birth, a higher power that operates in your life or from the people who influence you. The point is that we all have something that keeps us going. Some inner motivation that pushes us to be better.

In the book of Romans, the bible says, "The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by the same Spirit living within you."

We all have dead places in our life. It may be feelings of inadequacy, feelings of fear, lack of good health, past failures or an entire host of other things. We lock them away in a sort of tomb so that we can pretend they don't exist, but the truth is THEY DO, and the longer we avoid identifying those things the longer we will stay stuck in our current life, health and relationships.

But what if we actually took the time to identify the places and things in our life that are feeling flatlined? It is at this point that we can clearly see where God, or whatever you identify as your inner voice, is waiting to bring a resurrecting work. God longs to fill you will overcoming power that can only come from him. Those things that are holding you back don't have to stay buried in a tomb. They can be released and in doing so it will bring on a freedom and motivation to change and fix the things that we need to face.

I don't mean someday, I mean NOW! Someday is a curse word from now on. Simple and plain profanity. If we want to truly transform our lives, our health, our relationships and our finances then we must stop hiding behind the "maybes" and "somedays." Too many dreams have died on the altar of someday. Aren't you sick of waiting? Aren't you sick of looking back at yesterday and saying, "I'll start today instead" and then the next day saying the same thing?

Jesus only stayed in that tomb for 3 days. We have to let the things that are keeping our dreams and hopes buried out of the tomb and begin to live the life that Jesus died to give us. What dreams and hopes have you been keeping buried out of fear or lack of belief? Start taking action today to make them happen and stop focusing on your fears that you can't do it. YOU CAN!

Until next time keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

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The Daniel Plan - Eliminate Negative Self-Talk

2014-02-13T18:33:00.000-06:00

Click Here for Original post ===>>>>The Daniel Plan - Eliminate Negative Self-Talk

By Rick Warren - June 3, 2013

"Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts."Proverbs 4:23 GN

Long before psychology came around, God said your thoughts determine your feelings and your feelings determine your actions. If you want to change your life, you have to control the way you think.

You're constantly talking to yourself — all the time. Your mind is talking to you! You're talking to yourself right now. Research indicates that most people speak at a rate of 150 to 200 words per minute, but the mind can listen to about 500 to 600 words a minute. That's why you can listen to me and plan today's dinner at the same time.

In fact, our internal dialogue — the conversation we have with ourselves — is at a rate of 1,300 words per minute. How? Because our mind sees in pictures, and you can see a thought in a nanosecond!

The problem is that a lot of us are like Job, who says, "Everything I say seems to condemn me" (Job 9:20 GN). He's saying, in effect, "Everything I say puts me down." If you are typical to the human race, you are your own worst critic.

We're always putting ourselves down. We walk into a room, smiling, but inside we're thinking, "I'm fat. I'm dumb. I'm ugly. And I'm always late!"

God wants us to stop putting ourselves down. When you put yourself down, who are you really putting down? When you say, "I'm fat. I'm dumb. I'm ugly. I'm no good. I have no talent," you're really pointing to the Creator who made you. When you say, "God, I'm worthless. I'm no good. I can't do anything," you're saying, "God, you blew it with me." That's why God says it's wrong to put yourself down.

How do you eliminate negative self-talk so you can become a more confident person?

The Bible teaches the principle of replacement.

"Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right … Think about all you can thank God for and be glad about"Philippians 4:8 LB

In other words, don't think about all those weaknesses in your life. Focus on who God wants you want to be and on what God wants to do in your life.

There isn't a better thing you can do to raise your confidence level than to start believing what God says about you. As I read through the Bible, chapter by chapter, and find a verse that speaks to me, I write it down on a card, memorize it, and then I affirm it back to God: "Father, thank you that I am valuable; I am significant; I am forgivable; I am capable." Let God renew your mind because "your life is shaped by your thoughts" (Proverbs 4:23 GN).

Talk About It

I don't know any better antidote to low self-esteem (or to facing your hurts, habits, and hang-ups) than to read God's Word every day: Study it, memorize it, meditate on it, and apply it in your life.
How are doing with self-discipline in your daily quiet time with God?

Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and most influential churches. Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life. His book, The Purpose Driven Church, was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for pastors.

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

LOOKING TO CHANGE YOUR HEALTH? TAKE YOUR FREE HEALTH ASSESSMENT TODAY AT www.satisfied.idlife.com

Enjoy Your Vacation While Eating Healthy

2013-07-01T22:28:00.002-05:00

Absolutely nothing should get in the way of your vacation enjoyment! You’ve worked hard, and now it’s time to play hard. Sometimes, even pleasurable travel can be stressful. I’ve learned that one of the best ways to minimize travel stress and enjoy a vacation to the fullest is by finding ways to carry healthy-eating habits with me on my trip.

Several aspects of travel present challenges to healthy eating. First, your regular routine changes when you travel. Second, away from home you will face different types of foods as well as temptations that you know how to avoid at home. A little advance planning will help you navigate the labyrinth of unhealthy and processed foods you will encounter on vacation and keep you eating healthy through the duration of your trip.

Before you leave, take the time to learn about your destination. Doing a little research into the hotel and restaurants in the area can go a long way. I have found reviews be extremely helpful in my travels because they provide the most unbiased and true information. I recently found a great site that listed the hotels in Las Vegas I was interested in with reviews regarding restaurants, amenities, and things to do. This information made it extremely helpful to maintain a healthy lifestyle while away. Find out all you can about local restaurants. Locate a health food store in the area where you can stop for snacks to keep in your hotel room, and look for a hotel that has in-room refrigerators so you will be able to stock fruits and veggies there to ward off late-night cravings.

If you plan to fly, consider what you will eat on the plane. I always pack some healthy snacks like raw almonds and some fruit or fresh veggies in my carry-on bag to keep me from succumbing to high-sodium or sugary refreshments served on the plane. If an in-flight meal will be served, take the time to order an alternative to the regular meal. Low-sodium or vegetarian options are best.

Drink plenty of water throughout your trip. This may be easier at home, but it’s just as important when you travel. I like to carry a water bottle along with me that I can refill anywhere. This will save you money at tourist attractions where bottled water can be very expensive. It will also help you avoid the temptation of drinking soda or other sugary and caffeinated beverages.

On vacation, you will probably be eating at several restaurants. Follow the same guidelines you do when eating out near your home. Before heading to a nice dinner, eat a handful of raw carrots or an apple to take the edge off your hunger and keep you from filling up on bread before your meal arrives. Read the menu carefully. Find healthy selections under words such as “broiled” and “steamed.” Avoid words like “battered,” “smothered” or “bottomless.” Speaking of bottomless, avoid all-you-can-eat restaurants as well. It’s too easy to keep eating after you are full when you’ve paid to eat all you possibly can.

Of course, when you get away on vacation, you may want to splurge a little. Feel free to enjoy some local delights. The key to vacationing healthy is moderation. If you eat a healthy breakfast, go ahead and enjoy that world-famous corn dog at lunchtime. Just be sure to follow it with a healthy afternoon snack if you get hungry later.

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

GUEST AUTHOR: Cole Millen

Ready to get your health or weight under control? Take your FREE health assessment at www.satisfied.idlife.com and get a plan of action in place to reach your goals.

Practical Tips On Building A Healthy Meal

2013-03-07T17:22:00.000-06:00

A healthy meal starts with more fruits and vegetables and smaller portions of breads and starchy foods. Think about how you can adjust your portions on your plate to get more of what you need without too many added calories. And don't forget the dairy -- make it the beverage with your meal or add fat-free or low-fat dairy products to your plate.

1. Make half your plate fruits and veggies. Vegetables and fruits are full of nutrients. Choose red, orange and dark green vegetables when possible like tomatoes, sweet potatoes and broccoli.

2. Add lean protein. Choose protein foods, such as lean beef and pork, or chicken, turkey, beans, or tofu. Try to make your foods seafood at least twice each week.

3. Include whole grains. Aim to make at least half your grains whole grains. Look for 100% whole grain or 100% whole wheat in the label. Whole grains are much more nutrient dense and have more fiber than refined grains.

4. Don't forget the dairy. Pair your meal with a cup of fat-free or low-fat milk. You get the same amount of nutrients as whole milk, but less fat and calories. If you prefer, you can try soy milk or include fat-free or low-fat yogurt in your meal.

5. Avoid extra fat. Using heavy gravies or sauces will add extra fat and sodium to your diet. For example: Steamed broccoli is great, but avoid topping it with cheese sauce. Try substitutes like low-fat parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon.

6. Take your time. Savor your food. Eat slowly and enjoy the taste and texture of your foods. Being mindful of your eating and taking your time helps you to avoid overeating, and helps with better digestion.

7. Use a smaller plate. By using a smaller plate, you can help with portion control. That way you can finish your entire plate and feel satisfied without overeating.

8. Take control of your food. Eat at home as often as possible. That way you know exactly what you are eating rather than guessing at how it was cooked. If you do eat out, check and compare the nutrition information and choose baked over fried.

9. Try new foods. Keep it interesting by trying out new foods and recipes that you have never tried before. You may find a new favorite food. Try a recipe exchange with friends and encourage each other to try them out.

10. Satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthy way. Indulge in a naturally sweet dessert dish -- FRUIT! Serve a fresh fruit cocktail or a fruit parfait made with yogurt. For a hot dessert, bake apples and top with cinnamon.

Remember that small changes can add up to big gains in health. Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

Want to know what steps to take to get your health under control? Contact me at www.coachellen.idlife.com to set up your FREE health assessment.

Juice Drinks - The Worst Drinks for Your Body - Shape Magazine

2013-02-28T09:20:00.000-06:00

This is a great eye opener on drinks that we might think are "healthy." Remember, read labels and know your ingredients before you drink.

Juice Drinks - The Worst Drinks for Your Body - Shape Magazine

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

Looking for a health alternative to sports drinks or sugary juice drinks?

Hydration is all about water and electrolyte replacement. Hydrate supplies your body with the essential electrolytes Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium and Calcium that are most often lost during workouts or athletic events. Hydrate also supplies the complimentary nutrients, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2 and Taurine, which aid in the transportation of electrolytes through the body. Replenishing these electrolytes and minerals helps you recover and prepare for your next adventure. Get yours at www.coachellen.idlife.com

Ten Tips To Eating Healthy On A Budget

2013-02-26T09:01:00.000-06:00

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

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Greens blends 38 herbs and nutrient-rich "superfoods" to provide vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and enzymes in their naturally-occurring, bio-active, bio-available form.

Detoxifying, alkalizing drink powder
Promotes pH balance within the body
38 herbs & nutrient-rich “superfoods”
Equivalent of 8+ servings of fruits and vegetables in each serving

Greens is a pleasant tasting, orange-flavored powder. Simply add to water or juice. Click Here for more information or to purchase.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Any link or ads that take you to an outside party indicates that I likely have an affiliate relationship and benefit in some way either by reciprocal links or financially. I make all product recommendations and affiliate ad choices based on what I feel will most benefit my readers, not how much my commission or benefit is from that affiliate.

Reference: ‎www.choosemyplate.gov/foodgroups/downloads/TenTips/DGTipsheet16EatingBetterOnABudget.pdf

Discover How To Get Passed Your Workout Excuses

2013-02-21T14:10:00.001-06:00

fitnessgurutraining.wordpress.com

I know, I know, you would never miss a workout if only.....

We all have our excuses for not working out, and granted, some of them are legit. We are nursing an injury, working late or whatever, but many times we are simply talking ourselves out of it. By making an excuse it allows us to be less uncomfortable about not following through on our commitment to our goals. It's our natural human nature to avoid cognitive dissonance. It's not that your lazy, it's just our natural response.

So what's the secret to countering it? Make a habit of working out. This allows your brain to flip and cause you to create a "healthy obsession." This makes you want to move! Now I know that this is easier said than done, until then, here are some tips to overcome those excuses.

Excuse #1: I'm too tired!

This is the number one reason we blow off our workouts, however, studies show that regular physical exercise actually increases our energy levels and improves our ability to function at a higher level. Don't believe it? Just try committing to one week of workouts and see if you don't notice a difference. If you don't feel like you can follow through for even a week, enlist an exercise buddy to hold you accountable for a week which will make it harder to skip your workout session.

Excuse #2: I don't have time!

I'm sure you're busy, but trust me, the time is there. If you work 50 hours a week and sleep 8 hours a night, that leaves 62 hours for other things. According to the American Heart Association, you only need 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week to improve your health. To find your unused time, keep a 24 hour log of your time for one day. This will be a huge eye opener for you to be able to find the time for your workouts.

Excuse #3: I don't want to have to shower again!

Post workout primping can be done very quickly by giving your sweaty spots a once over with an antibacterial wipe. Do the same on your face, using an all-in-one cleansing pad. Apply beauty balm, which is similar to a tinted moisturizer but it contains blemish control and primer. Touch up your mascara and use a three in one shimmer to eyes, cheeks and lips. To top off your primping, use a dry shampoo on the crown of your head to freshen up your hair. Whalaa, you are done. It's that simple.

Excuse #4: Exercise makes me hungry!

Actually, hormones released during a vigorous workout actually work to suppress your appetite immediately post-workout. A recent study by researchers at Brigham Young University showed that the neural response to food was less than it was on non-exercise days for women who workout. Additionally, it found that women did not eat more on the workout day to make up for calories burned. The key is to eat 150 to 200 calorie snack immediately following your workout. Make sure to have a good balance of proteins, carbs and healthy fats. This will help you to stay full longer so you won't eat back all those calories burned.

The true reality is that by committing to an exercise program and pushing past your excuses, you will find yourself more energized, healthier and happier than you have ever been. Go ahead, try it! I dare you.

Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION: Click here to purchase or for more Information.

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Antioxidant benefits of acai berry
Promotes increased calorie burning
Helps boost metabolic rate
Reduces appetite
Provides energy

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Any link or ads that take you to an outside party indicates that I likely have an affiliate relationship and benefit in some way either by reciprocal links or financially. I make all product recommendations and affiliate ad choices based on what I feel will most benefit my readers, not how much my commission or benefit is from that affiliate.

THIS ARTICLE IS MEANT FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT OR CURE ANY DISEASE. PLEASE ASK YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE BEGINNING ANY SUPPLEMENTATION PROGRAM. ANY HEALTH PROGRAM SHOULD BE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN AND INVOLVE HEALTHY EATING, EXERCISING AND GOOD SUPPLEMENTATION.

References: Summarized from Health Magazine, March 2013. p. 62-64

Secrets To Making Meals Healthy And Quick

2013-02-07T13:54:00.001-06:00

Just a few good tips to eat healthier on the go or when you are in a hurry....

On the run? Healthier fast food or drive-through choices

Skip the meal deals and size upgrades
Calories can really add up when you get the larger size sandwiches, fried foods, and soft drinks.

Check off what you will try to cut the calories when eating out:
❑ Get the regular or child-sized hamburger and load it with lettuce, tomato, and onions.

❑ Cut a larger burger or sandwich in half. Eat half now, and refrigerate half for tomorrow’s lunch.

❑ Get the small size turkey or grilled chicken sub instead of the large one. Load it with veggies—spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers,
and onions.

❑ Drink water, or low-fat or fat-free milk, instead of whole milk, fruit drinks, or a soft drink.

Hearty, healthy lunches in a snap

❑ Sandwich lover? Choose lean protein fillings, such as grilled chicken or tuna. Make nonmeat sandwiches with peanut butter, low-fat cheese, sliced hard-boiled eggs, or fat-free refried beans.

❑ Load your sandwich with veggies. Along with the standard greens a tomatoes . . . try sliced cucumbers, green peppers, or zucchini strips for added crunch.

❑ Pick whole grains! Try whole-grain or 100% whole-wheat breads, tortilla wraps, English muffins, and pita pockets instead of white brea or buns.

❑ Green salads, anyone? Add lean meats along with fruits, beans, and nuts to your green salads. Try dried cranberries, cut-up fruit,
kidney beans, walnuts, and almonds.

Until next time keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve.

Information based on

Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010

Take your FREE, HIPAA compliant health assessment today at www.coachellen.idlife.com.

What Are Empty Calories And How Do You Avoid Them?

2013-02-05T16:29:00.001-06:00

When sifting through the countless diet, health and fitness articles on the internet and in the magazines everyday, you have undoubtedly come across the term "empty calories." These are defined as calories that come from foods that offer little to no nutritional value for your body. Things like sodas, candy and processed foods. They generally consist of processed carbohydrates and fats. Yuck! Well at least that's what we should say, but we tend to gravitate towards these types of foods because of the taste. The problem is that they contain large quantities of calories that tend to be sugar and nothing else. Beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages also fall into the category of empty calories. Another really bad thing about "empty calorie" foods and drinks are that they tend to leave you hungry very quickly after consumption. In short, without moderation, these foods and drinks can quickly add up to large amounts of weight gain.

Eating foods with lots of "empty calories" cause you to experience blood sugar spikes that fall just as quickly which leads to the "crash" of fatigue. These blood sugar swings can drive the need for an additional pick-me-up of, you guessed it, another "empty calorie" source. It's a never ending cycle of ups and downs that becomes a very hard habit to break.

Our fast food, convenience world has created a society of people who want things fast and quick. Unfortunately it has also lead us to become a society of overweight, unhealthy and disease infested humans. As I have stated before, despite the education and information available on health and wellness, 90% of us will die of a preventable disease. That sounds crazy, but it's true. We have the information, we just don't use it. Why? Because we have been conditioned to follow convenience over health. There are, however, things that we can do to develop better habits and make better choices to break the cycle of constant "empty calorie" consumption.

Know What You Are Eating...Read Labels.

We all know the general "yuck" foods like sodas and jelly beans, but even so-called "healthy" foods like protein bars and energy drinks can be full of large amounts of "empty calories." Avoid foods that contain high-fructose syrup, monosodium glutamate (MSG), enriched bleached flours, sodium nitrates and nitrites and artificial colorings. If a food has more than 10 ingredients, it's likely that it should be avoided.

Avoid Deep Fried.

Instead of deep-frying, use other methods of cooking. For instance, have a baked potato with skin instead of fries, or a piece of baked skinless chicken breast instead of fried chicken. Use olive oil in place of vegetable oil if you must have something fried, and remember to use oat flour in place of regular bleached flour as a good substitute for battering a food.

Watch Out For Condiments.

Pancake syrup, Ketchup and other condiments can add a significant amount of sugar calories to your diet. Be aware of what you are using to flavor your foods to avoid these extra calories. 1/4 cup of ketchup can contain as much as 60 extra calories and 4 tsps. of sugar.

Food Swap.

We all want something sweet every now and then. Avoiding empty calories doesn't mean you have to give that up. Instead of having that chocolate ice cream, replace it with some yogurt and mixed fruit or an all natural frozen fruit bar. Not only will it quench your sweet tooth but it will provide you with some great nutritional energy for your body. With a few creative swaps you can have your sweets and eat them too.

As always, take it slow and gradually introduce new items into your diet to replace old habits. You may discover it's not only tasty, but your energy levels will increase too. Until next time, keep reaching for that health, happy life you deserve!

For more information on health and wellness join my mailing list at http://www.easyfatburnnow.com

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION:

Greens blends 38 herbs and nutrient-rich "superfoods" to provide vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and enzymes in their naturally-occurring, bio-active, bio-available form.

Detoxifying, alkalizing drink powder
Promotes pH balance within the body
38 herbs & nutrient-rich “superfoods”
Equivalent of 8+ servings of fruits and vegetables in each serving

Greens is a pleasant tasting, orange-flavored powder. Simply add to water or juice.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION

3 Top Tips For Health

2013-02-01T12:19:00.001-06:00

I know many of you will agree that what we call "health care" today is really little more than "disease care." Let's face it; medications are just poisons with a desirable side effect, and sometimes additional undesirable side effects come along for the ride. We've all seen the commercials that tell you about this great new drug that can cure your ailments for the first 10 seconds of the advertisement and then spend the remainder of the time quoting the disclaimer that explains how your arm may fall off or your liver may explode but "hey, you won't have heartburn anymore." I can't help but laugh every time I see one.

The reality is that by the time we are at the doctor and getting a prescription for a problem then we are already sick. What we should be doing is taking measures ahead of time to avoid getting sick to begin with. I'm not talking about your average cold or bug you pick up at the office, but true chronic disease that could have been prevented with a few simple steps. We need to change our mindset to "preventative care." We must ask ourselves, "what can I do now that will help me avoid chronic disease later?"

Of course the answer to that question is vast, but for today, I'm going to just cover 3 simple steps that can help you improve your health, and maybe avoid some of the problems that our overmedicated, overweight society has created because of our unwillingness to take our health into our own hands.

Detoxify

Detoxification is a very popular subject among the natural health community these days, and there is a good reason for that. We've talked in length on this subject in the last few blog posts, but not to reiterate some of what we learned from those posts would be a disservice to my readers. Anything we can do to reduce the toxic load our bodies endure from the foods we eat, the water we drink and the skin care products we use is going to be greatly appreciated by your internal and external body systems. And hey, many of those toxins are fat soluble, so by reducing the toxins in our fat cells it stands to reason that we can reduce the size of our fat cells in the process. So one of the desired side effects to detoxification is reduced fat cell size and weight. Pretty cool.

Alkalize

Your body is either acidic or alkaline, and if it's acidic then it is set up for just about every kind of disease. Free radicals love acidic environments. This means that all the chronic diseases and degenerative conditions that come along with aging will also thrive in an acidic environment. This type of environment in our body is caused by junk foods, excess sugar, fried foods and even stress.

You can avoid acidification by having a diet high in plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables along with "superfoods" like greens. Green foods are loaded with alkalizing power, minerals, magnesium and potassium which in our current society are not consumed in adequate amounts most of the time.

Today is as good a day as any to become a "lean, green, disease fighting machine." Choose salad every chance you get and use the darker green lettuces like romaine when possible. Staying hydrated is another way to maintain alkalinity in the body, so drink at least 1/2 your body weight in ounces every day of water. When your body stays alkaline, it is much easier for the immune system to do it's job of keeping you healthy.

Supplement

Unless you are eating 2-3 fruits, 4-6 vegetables and 5-11 servings of whole grains that were grown in non-depleted soils without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers, everyday of the year it is unlikely that you are getting all the essential nutrients that your body needs to maintain optimal health. There are certain essential nutrients and vitamins that your body cannot make and must receive from your diet. Thanks to modern farming and food processing, the nutrients in many of the foods we eat are void of the necessary components to truly fuel our body for optimum health. For me supplementation isn't optional. It's a necessity!

How do you even begin to know where to start supplementing your diet with all the vast amounts of products and brands on the market? The answer is simple. Begin by taking a balanced, complete multi-vitamin and mineral supplement everyday. This is not an option if you want to enjoy great health.

All too often, doctors try to treat simple nutrient deficiencies with dangerous drugs and pharmaceuticals that can even cause greater nutrient loss and actually require vitamins and minerals to clear the medication from the system. If you are currently on medications, then taking a multi-vitamin can be an effective way to avoid or decrease many of the side effects associated with medications. Additionally, if you aren't on medication and want to decrease your chance of having to take medications then giving your body all the nutrients it needs each day is one of the best ways to do that.

So make a decision today to DETOXIFY, ALKALIZE and SUPPLEMENT everyday. Your body will thank you for it. Until next time, keep reaching for that healthy, happy life you deserve!

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DISCLAIMER

It Works! and its Independent Representatives Make No Curative Claims These Statements Have Not Been Evaluated by the FDA These Products are Not Intended to Diagnose, Treat, Cure, or Prevent Any Disease

The Secret To Seeing External Body Changing Results

2013-01-29T15:18:00.002-06:00

Up until now we have been talking about cleansing and balancing the body from the inside out, but I want to shift gears a little and talk about how to do that from the outside to see almost immediate results that include tightening, toning and firming in as little as 45 minutes and without exercise or dieting. I’m talking about a major cleanse to kickstart the cleansing process, and the manufacturer we use has the only product on the market that can do that.

You see, many companies develop products that when you read the label, it’s not really what’s in the product. It’s important to go with the companies that choose integrity over profits. The product development team uses cutting edge nutrients and the best, concentrated whole foods on the planet to create each product that they offer including the signature product that sets them apart from any other health and wellness company out there.

It is an infused mesh wrap that can be used on any part of the body to see immediate results in as little as 45 minutes. While many body wraps simply cause water loss, this applicator uses a botanically based cream formula that, when applied to the skin, gives you cleansing, tightening, toning and firming results that last. The botanical ingredients help to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin while reducing the appearance of cellulite and redefining the appearance of your body’s contours. Some of these cutting edge ingredients work to give you visible results in just 45 minutes, while other ingredients in the formula continue to work over the next 72 hours, leading to progressive results, so it continues to work for you over a three day period of time for amazing tightening, toning and firming results, and if used in conjunction with the other products that are designed to work together for maximum results such as the defining gel and other supplements designed to boost your metabolism, inhibit your carbohydrate absorption and balance your internal system, the results are quick and permanent.

Now I want to bring this information full circle to explain to you how you can use these products to get you to where you want to be with your weight loss and health.

Really quick, let’s talk about the importance of caring for your internal and external systems for maximum health, wellness and weight loss. Have you ever purchased deodorant, shampoo or maybe toothpaste for you or your family?

Well after what you’ve learned in this series of blogs, hopefully you understand that all of these products can actually contribute to the decline of our immune system, and even put our families at risk. We know you care about your loved ones, so would you knowingly give them RAT poison to brush their teeth? Of course you wouldn’t. Would you knowingly give them an industrial chemical degreaser to put on their skin or scalp? Of course not...and would you knowingly give them a commercial grade antifreeze compound to rub on their body? Again, I don’t think you would, but you MAY BE DOING ALL of these things if you’re allowing them to use your average store bought products. Of course, the solution is to stop using deodorant and shampoos right? No, that’s crazy. We have to use and have good personal hygiene for optimal health also, so that’s really not an option. That’s a tough pill to swallow, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

I know how much I have gained from these products. My belly is flatter, my digestion is better, my metabolism is faster than ever before, my energy levels are through the roof, and my skin has cleared up, and is tighter and firmer than it’s ever been. I decreased my body fat by 14% in just 90 days time, and the best part is my family is benefiting in the same way from the products. I know that they will continue to grow up using natural products to help their bodies function at their peak, and be regularly cleansed from these unavoidable toxins. It seems outrageous that these benefits are so vast and easy to achieve, but after all my research and using them for myself and my family, I can say that in the 25 years I have been an exercise physiologist, they are the only products I have ever recommended to my clients, and I highly recommend that if you want to see immediate, progressive results, you give them a try.

RESULTS FROM MY ACTUAL CUSTOMER!

(This was over the course of 3 weeks, wrapping once each week)

Either way you decide, I hope you will take the knowledge you have gained from this series on cleansing and health and use it to better yourself and the lives of your family. Until next time, keep reaching for the healthy, happy life you deserve!

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Tightens, tones, & firms
Minimizes cellulite appearance
Improves skin texture & tightness
Mess-free and simple to use
Results in as little as 45 minutes
Progressive results over 72 hours
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Includes 4 Applicators.

Directions: Apply one Applicator to one area of your choice (such as the abdomen, back, sides, legs, arms, or buttocks) and leave on for 45 minutes. Remove and discard. Repeat after 72 hours.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

For more information on health and weight loss visit my website at www.easyfatburnnow.com

DISCLAIMER

THIS ARTICLE IS MEANT FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT OR CURE ANY DISEASE. PLEASE ASK YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE BEGINNING ANY SUPPLEMENTATION PROGRAM. RESULTS OF WRAPS ARE DEPENDENT ON THE INDIVIDUAL AND ARE NOT TYPICAL ANY WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM SHOULD BE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN AND INVOLVE HEALTHY EATING, EXERCISING AND GOOD SUPPLEMENTATION.

An Amazing Secret About Weight Loss

2013-01-28T11:57:00.003-06:00

Its pretty amazing to realize that a clogged, toxic colon could be responsible for why a person feels tired, and lethargic all the time. Many experts believe that the average person has 5-20 pounds of accumulated waste matter in their colon. While a person with a toxic colon can have 40 pounds or more. If we abuse and neglect our colon and hinder the elimination process, the toxins that should be removed will continue to build up and be reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This creates a serious health issue known as autointoxication or self-poisoning. It can be the cause of excess weight and many other health issues we may face.

Autointoxication is the process in which the body literally poisons itself by maintaining a cesspool of decaying matter in its colon. This inner cesspool can contain as high a concentration of harmful bacteria as a cesspool under a house.

The toxins released by the decay process get into the bloodstream and travel to all parts of the body. Every cell in the body gets affected, and many forms of sickness can result. Because it weakens the entire system, autointoxication can be considered a cause for nearly any disease.

Many experts believe that all diseases begin in the colon! Not only does the decaying food produce toxic substances and provide a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, but it also blocks the intestine from absorbing good nutrients. This all leads to an unhealthy body.

I mean stop and think: have you ever taken prescription medications or antibiotics? How about anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen? How about birth control pills, steroids or hormonal drugs? Perhaps you’ve ingested fluoride from toothpaste, chlorine from our water supply or pesticides from your food. Maybe you’re a coffee, tea, or soda drinker, maybe you take synthetic vitamins? Maybe you are exposed to radiation via the microwave, the television, or your computer? and maybe you stress a lot. Well, folks, any of these things will kill off your friendly bacteria, upset your pH balance, and weaken your defenses to disease and block your ability to lose weight and find optimal health. And in case you’re wondering if your current multi-vitamin or nutrient-rich super juices will be enough to protect you, let me remind you of this; here in the United States as well as in Canada we prescribe more durgs and ingest more vitamins and mineral supplements on average...per person than any other educated population in the world. Yet, 90% of us will still die from a PREVENTABLE disease!

Ok, so if you are thinking you can just run to your local health food store and pick up some body cleansing products or supplements to help balance your system because one supplement or detox program is as good as the next right? Then I would say to you that isn’t exactly the case, and this is important to understand.

First, you need to find a potent WHOLE FOOD replacement, not a supplement, not a pill, not a drug. This is important so that it will not interact with or compromise any medications or special diets you may be on. I honestly believe that our diets should be the FOUNDATION for good health, and by adding super foods that bridge the gap to that diet offers us the ability to make that happen. Living Greens and super foods like Spirulina, barley and wheat grasses, which are extremely high in phyto-nutrients and Chlorophyll. It also contains Alfalfa grass which according to a study published in the journal of the National Cancer Institute, collects and binds cancer-causing agents in the colon...and then assists in their removal. On top of that, Greens contain an abundance of free-radical- fighting nutrients, and it helps restore your body to its appropriate pH balance. With restored alkalinity, your body is better equipped to fight off sickness.

You can also find a natural Greens formula with beetroot which acts as a gallbladder and kidney cleanse; and broccoli, black walnut hull, blackberry fruit, blueberry fruit, cabbage, kale, lemon and the list goes on and on.

Now I know a lot of those sound like foods we used to give our dogs secretly under the dinner table, but we know that we should be eating these for good health everyday anyway. How fantastic is it that we can get them all from one source without having to graze on vegetables and greens all day long? It Works! Greens give it to us in a concentrated source all in one dose.

Now normally when you eat these foods, your body only has a certain amount of time to process and absorb the nutrients; and the rest -- up to 80% of these nutrients-- will pass right through unused. But when you ingest the whole foods in this formula, you’ll absorb up to 5 times the nutrition than you would if you were to eat these foods cooked or raw because they are made to be very bioabsorbable and bioavailable to the body. That’s the key...we must be able to absorb what we take in, or it’s just being wasted.

Next time, I'll be talking about external cleansing and things that can be done to enhance both internal and external cleansing. Until then, keep reaching for the healthy, happy life you deserve!

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION:

Greens blends 38 herbs and nutrient-rich "superfoods" to provide vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and enzymes in their naturally-occurring, bio-active, bio-available form.

Detoxifying, alkalizing drink powder
Promotes pH balance within the body
38 herbs & nutrient-rich “superfoods”
Equivalent of 8+ servings of fruits and vegetables in each serving

Greens is a pleasant tasting, orange-flavored powder. Simply add to water or juice.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

For more information on health and weight loss visit my website at www.easyfatburnnow.com

DISCLAIMER

THIS ARTICLE IS MEANT FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT OR CURE ANY DISEASE. PLEASE ASK YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE BEGINNING ANY SUPPLEMENTATION PROGRAM.

How Toxic Are You?

2013-01-09T14:26:00.002-06:00

So think to yourself...have you ever had difficulty losing weight, or do you experience fatigue or poor mental concentration on a regular basis? Maybe you experience constipation or diarrhea. Chronic yeast infections, extreme menstrual or menopausal symptoms, or even frequent colds, flu or infections?

Alright...well I know it seems hard to believe, but these are all interrelated, they’re all symptoms of the same kind of imbalance. Many contemporary microbiologists and medical researchers agree that imbalances in the body are not only the underlying cause of premature aging, but they can also be the root cause of weight gain, and weight loss difficulties, health disorders such as asthma, attention deficit disorder, autism, Candida, Crohn’s Disease, Diverticulitis, Fibromyalgia, Heart Burn, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and even Premature labor in pregnant women...to name a few.

Ten’s of thousands of man-made chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides and synthetic drugs are interfering with our health and wellness and threatening our children’s future. They were first created during the time of WWII, with the intent to make more products...better...faster..and cheaper. Unfortunately, scientists were more focused on success than on long term safety. It’s no coincidence that since WWII and the gradual creation of more than 100 thousand man-made chemicals added to our food, skin-care, water and other household products...the chances of us getting sick and becoming unhealthy have exponentially increased from a rare 1 in 8,000 to a now common 1 in 3.

These chemicals are everywhere; in our food supply, so we eat them. They’re in our water supply, so we drink them. They affect the habitat of fish, frogs and all aquatic life, right down to the plankton. As humans at the top of the food chain, how do you think this affects us? Our skin absorbs 60% of what we put on it, so the chemicals ever-present in the cosmetics, skin care and personal care products we use seep right into our blood stream, and accumulate in our bodies. Pregnant women pass them on to their fetuses. Nursing mother pass them on to their newborn babies. Dr. Evon Ho, an infant toxicologist stated: “Each of us has over 500 accumulated toxic compounds in our body.” Our grandparents didn’t have these chemicals in their bodies because they didn’t even exist. The gradual build-up of these chemicals in our system wears on us and makes us vulnerable to disease, genetic weakness and even excess weight. They put us at risk for a host of disease and premature death. Because these toxins make our system weaker, and therefore multiplies our chances of getting genetic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer, or even other illnesses that are not genetic simply because our system is in a weakened state.

Basically, folks, what I hope all of you realize is the undeniable correlation between these chemicals building up in our bodies and the decline in our personal health; therefore it is vitally important that we not only make healthy choices by using healthy, organic and natural products, but it is also critical that we heal the imbalances and the damage we have already undergone.

A periodic cleansing program of the internal environment can help you feel refreshed and reduce the risk of potential problems brought on by an accumulation of toxins which can eventually make you quite ill. Because of all the toxins we are exposed to daily, a regular cleansing program is very necessary to keep our bodies and systems working properly. Also, the toxins can re-circulate in the body if the eliminatory functions are not working effectively and fat-soluble toxins can be stored in fatty parts of the body for many years which can cause increased fat cell size and cellulite build up in our skin. Many people simply don’t drink enough water, eat healthy foods or have a natural diet which is high in fiber, which can cause irregular or infrequent bowel movements, potentially harming the colon and adding to the toxic load in the body. Eating fruits and vegetables along with drinking a good antioxidant drink, such as green tea will help with your fiber intake and help to cleanse the body.

In my next post, I will be discussing this in further detail and give you some things that you can do to help combat this world induced toxic state you may be in. Until then, keep working on the healthy, happy life you deserve.

For more information on health, weight loss and wellness, please visit my website at www.easyfatburnnow.com

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DISCLAIMER

A Little Bit Of Exercise Motivation

2013-01-02T20:07:00.002-06:00

Discover Something to Motivate You to Exercise

Even though most people are aware of how significant exercise is to weight reduction, many have trouble making themselves do it. There are others who never can seem to find the time. Reality is that developing an exercise routine can be difficult when you are starting out. The key is developing a lifestyle that is accommodating to an exercise routine.

One thing is for sure: you need to get involved with an exercise plan that will keep your attention. In other words, I want you to be involved in exercises that you enjoy. This will make it natural to get into the daily routine since you want to do it.

You can even stay home and exercise. For many people this is key because the time and effort it takes to go to a gym often precludes participation in an exercise program. I sometimes use a spare bedroom, but I don’t have fancy equipment as you might expect. I don’t need it and neither do you. What you do need is a balance ball and weights that can be adjusted. A mat helps as well as a stationary bicycle or treadmill. That’s it. You don’t need a lot to get a fat loss program going. By having a way to exercise at home, you will find that it is easy to work out when you don’t have to go across town. The truth is that many people don’t exercise because they don’t like where they exercise.

What I want you to think about is what might make your exercise time more fun. Whatever you do, you will find that building it on the foundation of activities you enjoy is the key to developing a lifetime of fitness.

You can begin your fitness program together with a good diet. You can find tips for both in the Fat Loss Factor.

Until next time, keep working on the healthy, happy life you deserve.

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Secrets To Staying Committed To Your Plan

2013-01-01T13:30:00.002-06:00

Every January, on average one in three people commit to better themselves in some way, and though most make it through the first week, only about 46% of those people are still on track six months later. Months after the confetti has been swept up and the parties have ended, so has the emotion to change. So I thought it would be a great way to start the New Year by talking about resolutions for health and happiness that will stick.

When taking on any healthy lifestyle change, it's important to look at it in a positive way. By thinking of things to ADD to your life rather than giving things up, we can change our perspective to that of excitement and confidence.

Add A Vegetable To Your Lunch And Dinner Each Day

One small but healthy change you can make is to commit to getting more vegetables in your diet. By adding just one serving to your lunch and dinner each day, you can significantly increase your nutrients and vitamins. So instead of having those fries with your burger, add some green beans or squash instead. Not only will this reduce your intake of bad foods, but it will highly increase your consumption of the good foods our body needs for optimum health.

Add An Extra Glass Of Water To Your Day

Studies show that very few people get the adequate water that their body needs on a daily basis. By consciously choosing to add just one glass of water a day to your current fluid intake will greatly increase your bodies ability to stay hydrated. By staying properly hydrated, your body is able to rid itself of toxins through our natural elimination process much better than if we are not consuming a proper amount of fluids. Water also helps your body fight illnesses because water is part of lymph fluid in our immune system. Additionally, if you are trying to lose weight, it is imperative that you remain hydrated because the body needs to flush the byproducts of the fat it's breaking down.

Add Whole Grains To Your Menu

By adding whole grains to your diet instead of refined grains, you are able to lower your risk of many chronic diseases. Studies show that whole grains reduce your risk of stroke by as much as 36%, reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes by 30%, reduce your risk of heart disease by 28% and also helps you maintain a healthier weight.

Add Daily Exercise

Pick any exercise you want and add it to your day. Even if it's just 20 jumping jacks or 10 push ups, any exercise is better than none. Take 15 minutes of your day and commit to using it for some type of exercise no matter what it is. After you have created a habit of adding this to your day, you can slowly work your way up to longer, more productive workouts.

So, no matter what your new year's health goals are, it is best to not consider it as a plan of giving things up. By adding healthier options daily, you will automatically begin to feel better, be more motivated to succeed and eventually WANT to give those unhealthy things up. For now, just add health and the rest will take care of itself.

Until next time, keep working on that health, happy life you deserve.

Would you like to speak with me and my team directly so you can get personalized help to lose the weight?

Call now to set up your FREE weight loss consultation.

(641) 715-3900 Extension 755346# www.easyfatburnnow.com

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Greens is a pleasant tasting, orange-flavored powder. Simply add to water or juice. Click Here for more information or to purchase.

Common Nutrition Myths And Mistakes

2012-12-19T15:03:00.001-06:00

Common Nutrition Myths And Mistakes

We know nutrition is one of the main components of any healthy lifestyle change, however, with all the information out there, we must be careful to make sure we know the myths from the facts. This report has been written to help you sort through the common myths and mistakes we make in our nutrition planning and implementation.

Myth #1: Carbohydrates At Night Make You Fat

Not True! Carbohydrates by themselves will not make you fat. It’s important to remember the simple fact that calories are what will ultimately cause or reduce your weight. The fact is that if you burn more calories than you take in, you will lose weight, if you eat more calories than you burn you will gain weight, and if you consume and use the same amount then you will maintain your weight. It is not about eating carbs at night, it’s your overall calorie intake throughout the day compared to your overall calorie usage that will determine how your body responds.

Myth #2: Sodas Are Bad, Drink Fruit Juice Instead

True, sodas are bad for you. However, fruit juices, although they provide much of the needed vitamin C and other vitamins, they are very high in calories and sugar. I recommend keeping your fruit juice intake to before or after workouts and at breakfast. By doing this, you are getting fueled and recovered from workouts well, but you are not overdoing it on the overall calories and sugar. Additionally, because of the high level of sugar, and because the body absorbs fruit juice very well, it causes an insulin spike in the blood stream that triggers fat storage and increases your appetite. My best suggestion on this is to drink water as a substitute for sodas and fruit juice.

Myth #3: Egg Yolks Are Bad For You Because They Are High In Cholesterol And Fat

Not True! Well they are high in both of those, however, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are bad for you. All of the eggs vitamin D, E and A are located in the yolk. The yolk portion also contains more manganese, copper, phosphorus, iodine, iron, calcium and zinc than the egg white itself. The reason why so many people avoid the egg yolk is because of the high cholesterol level. However, recent studies show that humans do not absorb much cholesterol from the egg yolk (University Science article on eggs and cholesterol). With that said, why would you toss away such a perfectly nutritious food?

Myth #4: A Fat Free Diet Is Good For You

Um NO! Let’s start with the fact that it’s almost impossible, plus we all need good fats in our diet. We need dietary fats to carry fat-soluble vitamins such as D, E, K and X. Our body also needs essential fatty acids found in plants and fish in order to properly function. Those essential fatty acids keep our cell membranes watertight. By making sure we get these essential fatty acids, we help our body avoid symptoms of inflammatory problems like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and we also help support heart health and joints. Fats are not your enemy. We just want to make sure we consume the right amounts and the right kinds.

Myth #5: Water Makes You Gain Weight

Really? Our body is made of 80% water. Even a 2% drop in that level can cause our bodies to dehydrate. Do not skip on water. It is very important for our well-being. I recommend you drink ½ your body weight in ounces everyday for optimum health. Just like a car cannot run without gasoline or oil, we cannot run without water. Drinking enough water can help reduce your risk of colon cancer by 45% and bladder cancer by 50%! Just keep in mind that if you are doing cardiovascular exercises that cause sweating, we need to replace that water on top of what we normally need. Consuming water will not cause your body to retain it. If you don’t drink enough water then your body will think it is scarce and then it will want to retain it. So the bottom line is drink more water to avoid water weight so your body will know that it does not need to retain it and it can flush it out, cleansing your entire body in the process.

Myth #6: Sea Salt Is Better Than Table Salt

Salt is Salt. Sea salt is made from evaporated seawater, but the amount of sodium per teaspoon is the same as table salt that comes from a mine. They both contain about 2300 milligrams of sodium per teaspoon. Plus, table salt is regularly fortified with iodine, which plays an important role in regulating the hormones in the body. Sea salts have virtually zero iodine, so unless you have an allergy to iodine, you are simply wasting your money if you choose sea salt over regular table salt.

Myth #7: "Trans Fat Free" Foods Are Really Trans Fat Free

False! The guidelines from the FDA allow companies to claim “trans fat free” as long as the level of trans fats in the product is not more than 0.5 grams per serving. Due to their link to heart disease, the World Health Organization recommends keeping them to a level of less than 1 gram per 2000 calories consumed. This means if your cupboard is full of products that claim to be free of trans fats, but they actually have 0.5 grams per serving, then you will easily exceed the recommended dosage. Your best bet is to read labels. Avoid any foods or products that state, “partially hydrogenated oil” (meaning trans fat) anywhere on their ingredients list. This will help you stay within the recommended dosage.

Myth #8: Chocolate Is Bad For You

False again. Cocoa is a plant-based food full of flavonoids. These help to increase blood flow and release endorphins, which are our body’s feel good neurotransmitters. They also contain stearic acid, which is a healthy saturated fat that has shown to increase your good HDL cholesterol. Keep in mind however, chocolate doesn’t mean “milk” chocolate. Milk chocolate contains far more sugar than actual cocoa. Look for 60% or more of cocoa when choosing your chocolate so that you can receive maximum health effects and still curb your sweet tooth.

Myth #9: Oranges Are Your Best Source Of Vitamin C

You guessed it. Not true. Vitamin C is far more than a simple immune booster. It is an antioxidant that strengthens the skin by helping to build collagen. It helps improve your mood by increasing the flow of norepinephrine and it boosts the metabolic ability of the body by helping to transport fat cells into the body’s energy-burning mitochondria. However, your body can neither store nor create vitamin C, so you need a rich supply all the time. While oranges claim to fame is vitamin C, and it is a good source, it is by no means the best. Papayas, brussel’s sprouts, strawberries, broccoli and red bell peppers are all sources of just as much vitamin C as an orange, but with fewer calories. So, next time you are looking to get your C vitamin, reach for one of these instead.

Myth #10: Meat Is Bad For You

We need meat. Among the world’s best sources of complete protein are pork, beef and lamb. A Danish study found that dieting with 25% of your calories from protein could help you lose up to twice as much as dieting with only 12% protein. And don’t forget about B12, which is essential for building red blood cells. B12 is only prevalent in animal-based products. Adequate intakes of B12 help protect against brain shrinkage, according to British researchers. So don’t skimp on the meat. Make sure to get an adequate amount in your diet so that your body can perform at its peak.

So the next time you hear someone talking about nutrition, don’t believe everything you hear. If you are skeptical, do some research. Even if you aren’t skeptical, it’s always best to confirm something before accepting it as fact. Many people read health magazines and the like, but the truth is they have an agenda. They make profits as many ways as they can, and this includes advertising from nutritional product suppliers. These manufacturers are biased, and we cannot take their word for it.

Always do your homework and ask people you trust. If you don’t have anyone you can ask, there is always that beast at the gym that seems to always be doing it right. Keep in mind that any nutrition information should be used only as a guideline and not as absolute truth because every individual is unique in his or her own way. Experiment and see what type of diet and nutrition plan works for you. Let’s face it, we’ve all fallen for nutritional myths, so the best advice is to listen to logic and do some research, because the sooner you realize if it’s a myth or truth the better off you will be.

Would you like to speak with me and my team directly so you can get personalized help to lose the weight?

Call now to set up your FREE weight loss consultation.

(641) 715-3900 Extension 755346#

or go to my website: www.easyfatburnnow.com

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Promotes pH balance within the body
38 herbs & nutrient-rich “superfoods”
Equivalent of 8+ servings of fruits and vegetables in each serving

Greens is a pleasant tasting, orange-flavored powder. Simply add to water or juice. Click Here for more information or to purchase.

Discover Motivation...

2012-12-17T09:49:00.005-06:00

Discover Something to Motivate You to Exercise

You can even stay home and exercise. For many people this is key because the time and effort it takes to go to a gym often precludes participation in an exercise program. I use a spare bedroom, but I don’t have fancy equipment as you might expect. I don’t need it and neither do you. What you do need is a balance ball and weights that can be adjusted. A mat helps as well as a stationary bicycle. That’s it. You don’t need a lot to get a fat loss program going. By having a way to exercise at home, you will find that it is easy to work out when you don’t have to go across town. The truth is that many people don’t exercise because they don’t like where they exercise.

You can begin your fitness program together with a good diet. You can find tips for both in the Fat Burning Furnace. I highly recommend watching this unique and fun, free video to help you get started on your journey.

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The Hidden Dangers of Your Excess Abdominal Fat

2012-12-16T17:50:00.000-06:00

I felt this article would be great for my readers. It was written by Guest Author Mike Geary. Hope you enjoy it.

The Hidden Dangers of Your Excess Abdominal Fat - It's More Serious Than a Vanity Issue!

by Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer

Did you know that the vast majority of people in this day and age have excess abdominal fat? The first thing that most people think of is that their extra abdominal fat is simply ugly, is covering up their abs from being visible, and makes them self conscious about showing off their body.

However, what most people don't realize is that excess abdominal fat in particular, is not only ugly, but is also a dangerous risk factor to your health. Scientific research has clearly demonstrated that although it is unhealthy in general to have excess body fat throughout your body, it is also particularly dangerous to have excess abdominal fat.

There are two types of fat that you have in your abdominal area. The first type that covers up your abs from being visible is called subcutaneous fat and lies directly beneath the skin and on top of the abdominal muscles.

The second type of fat that you have in your abdominal area is called visceral fat, and that lies deeper in the abdomen beneath your muscle and surrounding your organs. Visceral fat also plays a role in giving certain men that "beer belly" appearance where their abdomen protrudes excessively but at the same time, also feels sort of hard if you push on it.

Both subcutaneous fat and visceral fat in the abdominal area are serious health risk factors, but science has shown that having excessive visceral fat is even more dangerous than subcutaneous fat. Both of them greatly increase the risk your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnea, various forms of cancer, and other degenerative diseases.

Part of the reason visceral fat is particularly dangerous is that it apparently releases more inflammatory molecules into your body on a consistent basis.

If you care about the quality of your life and your loved ones, reducing your abdominal fat should be one of your TOP priorities! There's just no way around it. Besides, a side-effect of finally getting rid of all of that excessive ugly abdominal fat is that your stomach will flatten out, and if you lose enough stomach fat, you will be able to visibly see those sexy six pack abs that everyone wants.

So what gets rid of extra abdominal fat? Is there actually a REAL solution beyond all of the gimmicks and hype that you see in ads and on commercials for "miracle" fat loss products?

The first thing you must understand is that there is absolutely NO quick fix solution. There are no pills or supplements of any sort that will help you lose your abdominal fat faster. Also, none of the gimmicky ab rockers, rollers, or ab belts will help get rid of abdominal fat either. You can't spot reduce your stomach fat by using any of these worthless contraptions. It simply doesn't work that way.

The ONLY solution to consistently lose your abdominal fat and keep it off for good is to combine a sound nutritious diet full of unprocessed natural foods with a properly designed strategic exercise program that stimulates the necessary hormonal and metabolic response within your body. Both your food intake as well as your training program are important if you are to get this right.

I've actually even seen a particular study that divided thousands of participants into a diet-only group and an exercise/diet group. While both groups in this study made good progress, the diet-only group lost significantly LESS abdominal fat than the diet & exercise combined group.

Now the important thing to realize is that just any old exercise program will not necessarily do the trick. The majority of people that attempt getting into a good exercise routine are NOT working out effectively enough to really stimulate the loss of stubborn abdominal fat. I see this everyday at the gym.

Most people will do your typical boring ineffective cardio routines, throw in a little outdated body-part style weight training, and pump away with some crunches and side bends, and think that they are doing something useful for reducing their abdominal fat. Then they become frustrated after weeks or months of no results and wonder where they went wrong.

Well, the good news is that I've spent over a decade researching this topic, analyzing the science, and applying it "in the trenches" with myself as well as thousands of my clients from all over the world to see what works to really stimulate abdominal fat loss.

The entire solution... all of the nutritional strategies, as well as training sequences, exercise combinations, and more have all been compiled in my Truth About Six Pack Abs Program.
Keep in mind that the point of this whole program is NOT abdominal exercises (that is only a very small portion of it). The main point of this program is showing you the absolute most effective strategies for losing your stubborn abdominal fat, so you can get rid of that dangerous health risk, as well as get a flatter more defined midsection.

If you follow the guidelines, you WILL lose your belly fat that has been plaguing you for years. This is not guesswork... it is a proven system that works time and time again for all of my clients on every corner of the globe that actually apply the information I teach. If you apply it, the results will come. It's really that simple.

The only reason most people fail in their fitness goals is that they have good intentions at first to adopt a new lifestyle, yet after a few weeks or months, they abandon their good intentions and slip right back into their old bad habits that gave them the excess body fat in the first place.

I want to help you succeed in finally getting rid of that extra abdominal fat that is not only UGLY, but also DANGEROUS.

Don't waste another day allowing that nasty abdominal fat to kill your confidence as well as contribute to your risk for MAJOR diseases.

Get the solution to rid yourself for life of this problem at...

http://www.truthaboutabs.com/

Train hard, eat right, and enjoy life!

Mike Geary
Certified Nutrition Specialist
Certified Personal Trainer
Author - The Truth about Six Pack Abs

Goal Setting For The New Decade: Beyond The New Year's Resolution

2012-12-15T15:17:00.001-06:00

Goal Setting For The New Decade: Beyond The New Year's Resolution
By Tom Venuto
www.BurnTheFat.com

When you pause and reflect on the past decade as you look ahead to a new one, it makes you appreciate how short life is, how valuable time is and how quickly the time can pass you by - with nothing to show for it, if you don’t plan otherwise.

That’s why the passing of another decade can feel like a wakeup call as much as a fresh start: Looking at the technological wonders that surround us in 2010, I can’t help thinking it feels like science fiction.

In fact, modern technology is one of the reasons why some people have succeeded at body transformation while others have failed.

I’m still in awe of the web. The satellite navigation system in my car amazes me every time I drive. I can store a library of books in a device that fits in my pocket. It blows my mind that we can speak to each other face to face through the internet live on video. That’s straight from Star Trek! And those are just the everyday little things. It’s the greatest time to be alive in all of human history! Unfortunately, today’s modern conveniences have brought a dark side upon us.

Rising obesity has paralleled the march of technology. The chair-bound, desk-job, computer, car, elevator, television based society of today is helping to make millions of people fat and lazy.

Our current way of life is less than a century old, yet our biology hasn’t changed in tens of thousands of years. Our bodies were designed to move and work, not sit and click.

We’ve become spoiled. Complacent. Dependent. And we are paying a price for it. We are fatter than ever before in all of human history. More than two thirds of Americans are now overweight. One third are obese. People are dying because they‘re too fat.

Ironically, none of our new technology can solve our body fat problems. There’s no easy way. No pill. No machine. No drug. More knowledge isn’t going to help. We already have most of the answers. We know more about the human body than ever before. But it’s all academic.

The problem lies in the doing. You have to do the work – in the gym and in the kitchen. Hard work.

We are a quick fix society. It’s partly human nature, but technology is making us more impatient. We can have products delivered to us with one click and even do it from our cell phones. We have instant downloads, movies on demand, and drive through coffee shops. We get our food made and delivered in just minutes while we are sitting in our cars, and it’s still not quick enough. The internet is blazingly fast, but most people will abandon a web page in seconds if it hasn’t loaded. It’s no different with fat loss. We want six pack abs yesterday.

Simultaneously fighting the pull of human nature and the convenience of new technology is no easy task. But there is a solution: Future Orientation.

The most successful people in the world today are those who have a long term perspective. They plan 5-10 years in advance and beyond. They know how to enjoy and live in the present moment, but they take action and make decisions based on their future vision.

The passing of another decade makes you take stock of yourself and your achievements, or lack thereof. “What did I accomplish in the last 10 years? Am I a better person today than I was in 2000?”

If you don’t like the answers, then it’s time to finally get serious about your future because the next 10 years are going to fly by even faster than the last 10 as the pace of life and society gets even faster.

To succeed in the new decade, think beyond new year’s resolutions. Think beyond the 12 week fitness goal. As you write your goals this year, don’t stop with 3 month or even 1 year goals.

Project yourself into the future: 3, 5 and 10 years from now. For each point, dream, fantasize, visualize: if your body, your health your physical performance were perfect in every way, what would that look like? Describe it in vivid detail.

With our ingrained penchant for quick fixes, we often overestimate what we can achieve in the short term and set unrealistic deadlines on our short term goals. But the flipside is that we often underestimate what we can achieve in the long term, so we set our long term goals too low. Do you realize that people have gone from broke to billionaire in 10 years? In this internet age, some have done it even faster.

My challenge for you this year is to start thinking about your body and your life with the same type of creativity that has led to our greatest technological advances: Not the same thoughts as yesterday. Not just positive thoughts. just bigger thoughts. NEW THOUGHTS! Creative thoughts! Inventive thoughts! From new thoughts will spring new goals, new actions and new achievements.

Fitness goals should not take over your life, they should enhance every other part of it. So take this opportunity to achieve balance by setting long term goals for every area of your life – health, fitness, finances, career, relationships, experiences, travel, possessions and spiritual growth. Most people didn’t set any goals 10 years ago. They’re among the masses who are in the same place today as they were a decade ago.

Some people only set short term goals, so they accomplished a few little things, but then stopped, as if a goal were a final destination rather than a stepping stone along a path. Other people set goals but didn’t follow through on them. They forgot that goal setting and goal achieving are two different things.

Don’t fall into these traps.

If you need coaching in the goal setting process – from the daily and weekly baby steps to the long term goals and dreams that span a decade – read chapter one of Burn The Fat, Feed the Muscle. If you already have it. Now is the time to revisit it.

If you don’t own a copy yet, you can get the program at:

www.BurnTheFat.com

Most people make resolutions. Some people set well-formed goals. But long term goals are the goals that almost everyone forgets to set. If you didn’t do this exercise 10 years ago, do it now. If you do, I guarantee that in 2013, 2015, 2020, you’ll not only find yourself living at a whole new level, you’ll find yourself living in another world - one of your own creation.

Happy New Year!

Tom Venuto, author of
Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle
www.BurnTheFat.com

PS. Remember, goal setting is just the start. Goal ACHIEVING requires a nutrition and training plan. Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle is the most comprehensive fat loss program of its kind because it teaches you every element necessary to succeed: nutrition, cardio training, weight training and "mental training" (goal setting and mindset).

Learn more about the Burn The Fat program at:
www.BurnTheFat.com

About the Author:

Tom Venuto is a fat loss expert, lifetime natural (steroid-free) bodybuilder, independent nutrition researcher, freelance writer, and author of the #1 best selling diet e-book, Burn The Fat, Feed The Muscle: Fat-Burning Secrets of The World’s Best Bodybuilders & Fitness Models (e-book) which teaches you how to get lean without drugs or supplements using secrets of the world's best bodybuilders and fitness models. Learn how to get rid of stubborn fat and increase your metabolism by visiting: www.burnthefat.com

For more information on health and wellness check out my website at: http://www.considerhealthy.com