What Are Some No Carb Snacks?

A strictly zero-carb diet is anything but easy-- carbs lurk everywhere in natural foods. Even healthy foods like fruits and vegetables contain hefty amounts of both sugars and complex carbohydrates. Going low-carb can be done simply by reading labels. Low carb would be less than 15 grams per serving. It is still possible to eat pasta, bread, dairy, and fruits and veggies when on a low-carb diet. The hard-core no-carb approach can be a challenge.

Nuts

Almonds, peanuts, cashews and pistachios are no-carb options for a quick snack. Nuts are high in protein, contain essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and oils, and--like all high-fiber foods--help control overeating by creating a feeling of fullness. However, because of their high fat content, limit daily intake to about 1/4 cup. A 1-cup serving of almonds provides a diet-busting 550 calories and 47 grams of fat.

Seeds

Pumpkin, squash, sunflower, and flax are good seed choices for a quick snack. Seeds contain less calories and fat than nuts and still provide essential amino acids, protein and healthy omega-3 fats. Seeds are a good source of magnesium and zinc. Moderation is still the word when consuming seeds, especially if weight loss is one of your goals.


Jerky

Beef jerky or turkey jerky is another no-carb snack option. Both are very low in calories and high in protein. However, unlike most nuts and seeds, jerky is highly processed and often high in sodium and saturated fat. Turkey jerky contains less saturated fat than beef jerky as it comes from a leaner meat. Again, moderation is best.

Soybeans

Soybeans are a great source of fiber, protein, and folate and are low in cholesterol and sodium. When steamed, known as edamame, soybeans are even more nutrient-rich and lower in calories and fat. The USDA rates this food 4 out of 5 stars in terms of weight management and optimal health.

Cheese

All cheese can make a good snack if you pay heed to serving size. Even one ounce of cheese can be high in calories and fat. Cottage cheese is low in calories (average 110 per 4-ounce serving) and is a great source of selenium and protein. Another cheese you can snack on is mozzarella, especially the handy string-cheese form. If you choose the part-skim variety, a serving provides a mere 150 calories, 0 grams of fat, 2 grams of fiber, and approximately 36 grams of protein.

How to lose Weight and Lose Belly Fat Eating Every Three Hours, Three Hour Diet

For many people the task of losing weight and toning belly fat can be a long hard struggle. The good news is that weight loss can be easy and less stressful with the right diet. The three hour diet is a great plan. It requires you to eat every three hours so you will not feel hungry as you lose the extra weight and work on achieving a flat stomach.
Now you are probably wondering how this works, how someone could eat so often and lose weight, right? Well its simple actually. The three hour diet uses timing methods to trick your bodies metabolism into burning stored fat. For more details see the tips below.

When you skip meals it actually slows your bodies metabolism. It tells your body that food is scarce and it places itself in starvation mode storing up all of the extra fat. When you eat often the exact opposite takes place. Your body decides that there must be plenty of food available and it starts using the stored fat. So you need to make healthy food choices and eat often.


Start with a healthy breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating first thing in the morning jump starts your metabolism and tells it to get busy burning stored fat.

Next you want to make sure that you have a snack or healthy meal every three hours for the rest of the day. Keep your snacks at around 100 calories. Have a healthy lunch and dinner.

Stop eating three hours before bed time. This will prevent your body from turning late night snacks into fat as you sleep.

Eating small meals often will prevent you from feeling hungry. It will also prevent you from over eating at meal times. Incorporate this diet plan with at least 30 minutes of exercise a day and you will be on your way to a more healthy and thin body. As well you will eliminate unwanted love handles and belly fat. You will feel better, look better, and be over all more happy.

The Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss

Protein shakes can be made with several intended uses in mind. Many people tend to categorize them as tools to help people gain weight and build lean muscle mass. However, protein shakes can also be used effectively for weight loss when made with the right ingredients. If you combine several different healthy ingredients, you'll get a healthy, quick beverage that can greatly assist your weight loss goals.

Benefits

There are many benefits to using protein shakes as a weight loss tool. The protein in the beverage will help to keep your body feeling full, preventing snacking later in the day. Some of the other ingredients for protein shakes will help provide your body with other essential nutrients, such as antioxidants and vitamins. Additionally, starting your day with a protein shake will kick your metabolism into a high gear immediately, allowing you to burn as many calories as possible all day long.

Protein Powders

With weight loss in mind, it's always important to eat plenty of protein that will help keep your body feeling full. However, you will not require the large doses of protein that those looking to build new muscle need. Therefore, adding in protein powder is entirely optional if you have other sources of protein in your shake. A half scoop of protein powder, which will provide upwards of 10 grams of protein while adding less than 100 calories, is more than sufficient if you so choose. Additionally, protein powders come in various flavors that can help add to the taste of your shake.

Fruit

Fruit is an essential ingredient for protein shakes. The fruit you use will in large part determine the flavor and consistency that you end up with. Additionally, adding fruit will provide a huge boost of vitamins and antioxidants that your body needs for overall health. The fruit you use can be either fresh or frozen, but you should avoid fruit salads or other mixes that contain sugary syrups. Include one to three servings of fruit in your protein shake.


Liquid Ingredients

The liquid ingredients for protein shakes will provide you with plenty of variation. Any kind of fruit juice can be used, such as orange juice or pineapple juice. Additionally, low-fat or skim milk can be used in place of the juice for a different spin. For a thicker shake, add several handfuls of ice.

Other Ingredients

There is no limit to the kinds of ingredients for protein shakes that you can use. For a different twist you can include a tablespoon of peanut butter along with a cup of milk and a banana. For an additional boost of protein and a thicker consistency, you can add in a small serving of low calorie yogurt into your protein shake.

How to Use Water with Lemon for Weight Loss

Some fad diets claim that you can lose a lot of weight and melt away fat simply by drinking lemon juice mixed with water. Some of these "detox" diets even recommend going without food for days or weeks, and make other potentially unhealthy recommendations, such as the use of herbal supplements and laxatives.

But lemon water doesn't have any magical fat-burning properties, and fasting isn't a healthy or sustainable way to lose weight. However, as a virtually calorie-free beverage with a little zing to it, it makes a great diet drink, and staying hydrated is key to losing weight. Always consult your doctor before changing your diet.

Replace Sugary Sodas

Losing weight is all about controlling your calorie intake. To shed pounds, you need to remain in a calorie deficit, meaning you're taking in fewer calories than you're expending each day. By reducing your calorie intake by 500 each day, you can shed about a pound a week. Water is, of course, calorie-free, and lemon juice is virtually calorie-free -- the juice of one whole lemon only has 11 calories. If you typically have two sodas a day, just by replacing them with a glass of lemon water, you can shave 300 calories off your daily intake.


Stay Hydrated, Eat Less

If you've ever felt hungry and then drunk a glass of water only to notice that you're not hungry anymore, you've experienced firsthand that thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Instead of reaching for a snack the next time you feel peckish, gulp down a glass of water with fresh lemon juice. Then, wait a few minutes to see if you really need those extra calories or if the lemon water was enough to satisfy you.

Drink It Before Meals

Drinking a glass of lemon water before a meal might help you eat less at that meal to reduce your daily calorie intake. Researchers from the American Chemical Society conducted two studies on drinking water as a weight-loss strategy. In the first study, they found that participants who drank two glasses of water just before eating a low-calorie meal consumed 75 to 90 fewer calories at that meal.

In their second study, the researchers divided 48 adults into two groups, both of which followed a low-calorie diet for 12 weeks; one group drank 2 cups of water before meals and the other group didn't. At the end of the study, the water drinkers lost almost 5 pounds more than the water drinkers. The researchers presented their findings at the 240th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society.

A Twist on Lemon Water

You can drink your lemon as a soothing hot drink or as a cold refreshing drink. Use fresh-squeezed lemon, or buy bottled lemon juice for convenience. Just be sure whatever you buy doesn't contain added sugar. If you get bored with lemon water, try jazzing things up with fresh mint, cucumber slices, watermelon cubes or crushed berries. Fresh fruit will add a little sweetness to your water while contributing negligible calories.

How to Eat Healthy at Taco John's

It's hard eating healthy at a fast food restaurant and Taco John's is no different. There are so many delicious, fried foods to choose from. But if you would like to eat healthy at Taco John's you need to make better choices.

Eat a side salad before you eat your main dish to fill up your stomach so you don't eat as much. A side salad has 80 calories, 5g of fat and 6g of carbs. Instead of the fatty dressings they have, put salsa on your salad instead.

Choose a main dish from one of the items from their "10g or Less of Fat" list, which includes: Crispy Taco, Softshell Taco, Chicken Softshell Taco, Taco Burger without cheese, Bean Burrito without cheese, Chili without cheese and Steak softshell Taco. The Crispy Taco has the least carbs (13g) and the Chili and Steak Softshell Taco has the least fat (each has 8g). The Crispy Taco has the least calories (180).


Order the Grilled Chicken Fajitas and share it with a friend. The meal has 850 calories a serving and 31g of fat and 99g of carbs. However, the serving size is very large and if you eat half or less, it isn't that bad.

Have the refried beans without cheese if you desire a side dish with your meal. With cheese a 9.5 oz serving has 400 calories, 14g of fat and 50g of carbs. Without cheese the same serving size has 340 calories, 9g of fat and 49g of carbs. The super Potato Oles are the most fattening side dish at 1060 calories, 67g of fat, and 91g of carbs per 16.8 oz serving.

Eat a bag of Taco John's Giant Goldfish Grahams if you crave something sweet. They have 120 calories per bag with 5g of fat and 19g of carbs. The Choco Taco is the most fattening dessert on the menu at 300 calories per 4.0 serving and 15g of fat and 38g of carbs.

Eat breakfast at Taco Johns and order a Breakfast Bacon Taco, which has 260 calories, 14g of fat and 25g of carbs per 3.8 oz serving. This item is the least fattening on the breakfast menu.

How to Eat Right

Eating right doesn't have to be difficult and it doesn't have to be a special diet. It can be a lifestyle, and you can eat right for life! Check out the following...

Eat breakfast, lunch, dinner - often times we don't have any problem with remembering dinner and lunch either, but breakfast is often the problem! In the USDA's Nutrition Newsletter, Nibbles for Healthy 6, they state that it gives energy, helps maintain a healthy weight, and gets us ready to learn for the day. Try whole grain cereals, fruit, oatmeal, or whole-wheat toast with peanut butter. Stay away from stuff with high sugar content.

Make sure to eat breakfast (emphasizing the above point!). An old saying is that we should eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper. Follow that guideline and it will help you with losing weight as well. Eating breakfast helps our metabolism start at the beginning of the day and helps us to not overeat throughout the rest of the day.

Have fruit for breakfast and an easy morning snack.
Get vegetables in at lunch with easy meals like a veggie wrap, salads, or vegetable sandwich.

Add salads and/or a variety of fresh or frozen vegetables to any dinners.
Slow down! Take your time to converse and connect with those around you while eating. Make dinners as much about the people you're with than nourishment to your body.


This will help you to chew your food better allowing for better digestion and will help you to know when you become full!

Talking around the table will also help you to know when you are full. It takes some time for your brain to realize that you've had enough to eat. Most of us are still shoveling our food in and don't give time for the stomach to let the brain know that!

Stop eating when you are satisfied. This is usually the first sigh at the dinner table. Stopping at this point will help you to stop over-eating and be able to lose weight.

Don't eat when you are stressed. When we are stressed we are sometimes eating for reasons other than hunger. Also, you eat faster when you are stressed and may not pay attention to your body signs as mentioned before.

Don't eat in front of the television. This has become more and more common. Do not pick up this trend. You will not notice how much you are eating and you may eat faster depending on what you are watching (something that is intense or stressful).

• Stick with the great basics. Eat of variety of food within these basic food groups. Check out resource section to find the "healing food pyramid" by the University of Michigan. It gives a great way to eat healthy.
The basics are...
o Fruits
o Vegetables
o Whole Grains
o Legumes
o Fats
o Some dairy
o Some lean meats

Give meal planning a try! This allows you to plan ahead to eat healthy. Check out the resource section for information on meal planning and to get your ready made meal plan today!

Diet for People With Very Slow Metabolism

People who have a slow metabolism can be overweight because their bodies stores the majority of the food they eat as fat. When a person has a fast metabolism, he doesn't gain weight easily because the body utilizes food more efficiently. Having a slow metabolic rate can also slow digestion and cause fatigue.

However, you can speed up your metabolism and burn fat. Incorporating certain foods into your diet and avoiding other foods make your body a more effective machine within a short period (usually about two to three weeks).

Metabolism-Boosting Foods

Eat foods that speed up your metabolism. There are a wide variety of healthy foods that increase your metabolism. Eat foods that contain whey protein, or drink whey protein shakes. Protein is beneficial because it contains iron and B vitamins, which are needed for energy. Rolled oats are another great choice because they're good carbohydrates with added vitamins and minerals. Other foods known to boost metabolism are beans, green tea, natural yogurt, almonds, spinach, eggs, turkey, chicken, whole grains, olive oil, peanut butter, steak and salmon.

Healthy Fats and Oils

Eat healthy fats and oils daily. Healthy fats and oils are important because they improve how the body functions and assist with the fat-burning process. These good fats also reduce inflammation and improve joint health.

Good fats are also called omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats can be found in many foods such as sunflower seeds, almonds, pumpkin seeds, eggs, salmon, peanuts and other types of fish. You can also supplement your diet with good fats by taking cod liver oil or flaxseed oil, or by adding olive oil to your salads.


Avoid bad fats that are found in junk foods, processed foods, salty foods, fried foods and other packaged foods. Do not eat frozen dinners, canned soup or other foods that are high in salt and additives.

Raw Vegetables and Fruit

Eat five to eight servings of raw vegetables and fruit every day. Raw fruits and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals and enzymes that are needed for cell repair and metabolic function. Most people do not consume enough raw foods in their diet. Center your diet around these foods---you can even grow your own vegetables if you have a yard.

Adding metabolic boosting foods can dramatically improve your health, but it is also vital to eat your food a certain way. Chew your food slowly and take your time eating. Eat three small meals per day and three to four snacks. Eating more often will also boost your metabolism. Do not eat after seven pm at night.

Hydration

Drinking plenty of pure water each day will also help boost the rate in which you burn fat. Water is the transport system for nutrients and a hydrated body functions better. Most people need eight glasses of water per day, but you may need more if you spend time in the sun or work out. Avoid sodas, sugary drinks and teas. Coffee has also been shown to boost metabolism, but only in moderation.

One Week Weight Loss Diet Plan

How many times have you tried to jump-start your diet only to give in to temptation after few weeks? A 1-week weight loss diet commits you to a manageable length of time. It will be easier to plan for week before going the extra distance with a longer-term plan. The simplest way to get fast results is to go through a detox from processed foods and to do light exercise. Giving yourself 1 week to reap the benefits will motivate you for the long haul.

Detox Meal Plan

Treat your body to a break from toxins and chemicals by following a detox meal plan void of processed food. Create a shopping list of your favorite vegetables, fruits, yogurt, unsalted nuts and lean protein. Stay away from high-carb vegetables like potatoes.

Start your morning right with a well-rounded meal of fruit salad with drizzled yogurt, egg white omelet filled with vegetables, and coffee. A meal high in protein and low in carbohydrates will fill you up and leave you full for hours.

Three hours after breakfast, grab a quick snack of a handful of nuts. Only eat nuts in moderation, because they are high in fat. For lunch, throw a couple of ounces of lean meat or tofu on a bed of lettuce. Use only extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar as your dressing. About 2 to 3 hours later, eat another snack of fresh fruit.

Prepare a healthy dinner by cooking 3 oz. of low-fat meat or fish and unlimited vegetables. Season with any spice, but avoid salt. By eating three meals and two snacks daily, you avoid the blood sugar fluctuations that cause binging, headaches and fatigue.


Water

It is vitally important during your week diet plan to drink daily at least 10 glasses of water. Dehydration can be misinterpreted as hunger pains. By drinking a tall glass of water, you fill up your stomach, leaving less room for food. If you need extra motivation, flavor your water with tasty non-sugar sweetener. Staying hydrated will help prevent the typical tiredness associated with diets.

Exercise

The 1-week diet plan is most likely less calories than you are used to eating. Keeping exercise to a moderation will decrease your chances of getting too hungry. It is essential to stop exercising if you begin to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Great exercise options include walking, Pilates, yoga and bike rides. Next time you feel the urge to cheat on your diet, get out of the house. A brief break away from temptation will likely take your mind off eating. The week diet plan is only recommended for short-term use, because of the intense calorie restrictions. Take some of the suggestions and apply them to a regular eating schedule. You will be amazed by how much better you feel.

What Can I Eat on a No Carb Diet?

A no-carb diet is sometimes referred to as the Atkins diet, but you do not have to follow the Atkins food plan in order to consume low-carbohydrate foods. With a no-carb diet, it is important to stay away from starches such as potatoes, rice, pasta and bread. All of those foods are loaded with carbs and should be replaced with zero or low-carb foods instead. Some foods contain a lower concentration of carbohydrates per serving and are allowed in small portions.

Salads and Vegetables

Cucumbers have zero carbohydrates, while lettuce, radishes and celery have one carbohydrate. Broccoli, brussels sprout, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower and asparagus are also low-carb vegetables that can be included in your diet.

Eggs and Dairy

Raw egg white and egg yellow contain no carbohydrates and can be cooked in a variety of ways. A cooked egg, such as an omelet or hard-boiled egg, has one carbohydrate. It is okay to eat cooked eggs on a no-carb diet. A hard-boiled egg can be eaten with a fresh garden salad. An omelet can be paired up with sausage links for a high-protein, no carb breakfast.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, many cheese varieties such as Camembert, cheddar, Munster and parmesan have zero carbohydrates. Italian cheeses, including provolone and mozzarella, have one carbohydrate and can be eaten on a no carb diet.


Meat

Most meats are high in protein and low on carbohydrates. The U.S. Department of Agriculture states that beef such as steak tips and hamburger meat can be eaten on a zero-carb diet. Poultry, veal, venison, bison meat, lamb and pork are all meat varieties that contain no carbohydrates, but can be high in calories, fats, sodium and cholesterol.

Fish such as salmon, Alaskan halibut, sardines, anchovies, trout and mackerel are low in carbohydrates and can be eaten on a diet that restricts carb intake. Protein from meat can be eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and can be prepared any way you'd like. Grilling meat is a great way to get flavor without extra seasonings or oil. Breakfast foods such as ham and sausage links can be eaten as part of a no carb diet, but they do contain a lot of sodium.

Oil and spices

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, olive oil, peanut oil and safflower oil have 0 carbohydrates. These oils--but not canola oil--are allowed for food preparation. Add low-carb herbs such as dill, oregano, turmeric, sage and thyme to prepare diet food and add some flavor. Butter has no carbohydrates and can be used for cooking as well.

How to Eat Fruit for Breakfast & Lunch to Lose Weight

Eating moderate amounts of fruit is effective in losing weight, as fruits are high in nutrients and fiber. Although you can lose weight by only eating fruits for breakfast and lunch, you may find that you lose more weight if you add carbohydrates and protein to these meals. For example, instead of eating only berries, an apple and a banana for lunch, try eating berries, an apple and 5 oz. of low-fat chicken breast. The combination of fiber from the fruit and protein from the chicken will help you to feel fuller longer, ultimately helping you to lose those extra pounds.

Eat Fruit Along With a Healthy, Balanced Diet

Incorporate fiber-rich foods into your breakfast and lunch. They will require more chewing and they may take longer to eat. They are also generally lower in calories than other foods. These factors are believed to assist in the control of overall body weight, according to the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts.


Eat fruits that are highest in fiber, so that they may help you stay full longer. These include oranges, apples, berries (especially blueberries, blackberries and raspberries), pears, grapefruit, melon, dried apricots and prunes.

Eat a well-balanced dinner that includes protein, vegetables and whole grains. For example, a balanced dinner could include grilled chicken or salmon with 1 cup of asparagus and 1/2 cup of couscous or whole-grain rice. The balance of these other food groups along with your fruit intake will make for a healthier diet.

Devise a diet plan and stick with it. Here is a sample menu for one day:
Breakfast: 1/2-cup soy milk poured over 1-cup berries, sprinkled with 1-tbsp. flaxseed
Lunch: 2-cups fruit salad (including grapes, cantaloupe, blueberries and strawberries). Optional addition: 10 almonds
Dinner: 5-oz. grilled fish, low-fat steak, grilled chicken or tofu, 1-cup broccoli and 1/2-cup whole-grain rice
Optional snack: mixture of dried apricots, dried cranberries and dried mango

Healthy Diet to Tone & Strengthen Abs

It's important to eat healthy and exercise to lose weight. When it comes to having flat abs, it's almost all about the diet. The Abs Diet is a healthy diet that was created specifically to help you lose the fat over your abdominal muscles.

Superfoods for Your Abs

While exercising does help strengthen your abdominal muscles, losing the fat over those muscles is more about what you eat. The Abs Diet is a 6-week plan that involves both healthy eating and exercise. It recommends 12 power foods that help get rid of your fat in no time.

Those 12 power foods are berries (in particular, raspberries), dairy products, oatmeal (don't add sugar), whole grain cereal and bread, natural peanut butter, nuts (especially almonds), eggs, protein powder, greens and green vegetables, olive oil, legumes and beans, white-meat chicken and turkey, and other lean meats.

To eat better for healthy abs, eat six small meals throughout the day and include at least three of the previously mentioned power foods at each of these meals. Another option is to eat three medium-sized meals and three snacks. Be sure to use variety with these power foods to get benefits from all of them.

One great difference about the Abs Diet is that it works well and doesn't require you to starve yourself. The focus is about feeding the body and optimizing health.


Other Recommended Foods

The Abs Diet also recommends some other foods that you should consume regularly. These foods aren't power foods, but they are great for your body and your abdominal muscles. Eat fruit including apples, melon, citrus fruits, peaches and bananas. Eat vegetables and starches such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, peppers and asparagus. Other foods you should also include in your diet are garlic, peanut oil, Canola oil, shellfish, lentils, mushrooms, Canadian bacon, non-fat popcorn and low-fat (broth-based) soups.

Abs Diet Meal Plan

If you don't want to buy the Abs Diet book, Men's Health Magazine online provides a very helpful Abs Diet weekly meal plan (see Resources). Some of the suggested snacks are 1 oz. of almonds and 1/2 cup of cantaloupe, three slices of deli turkey and one large orange, one string cheese and as many raw vegetables as you want, and 1 oz. each of almonds and raisins.

Foods to Avoid

Despite the theory behind the power foods and feeding the body, you still need to eat sensibly. Avoid saturated and trans fats. You should also avoid refined sugar (think white sugar) and processed foods. Taking these simple steps will help you eat sensibly without having to count calories.

How Often Should One Cleanse the Bowel?

Bowel cleansing, also known as colon cleansing, is essential, if not foundational, to any natural-healing protocol. Regular bowel cleansing causes people to lose unwanted weight and increases circulation. It relieves pressure from other internal organs and aids in their proper function. The natural ingredients found in good colon-cleanse products draw out old fecal material, metals like mercury and aluminum, and even old prescription-drug residue. If you are willing to spend the time and effort to do a really good colon cleanse and then keep your body "clean" afterward by adopting a healthy lifestyle, you will have more energy, will look and feel better, and many diseases can be prevented.

An alternative to herbal cleanses is colon hydrotherapy. The procedure is different from colon-cleanse products, but the results are no less effective.

Please seek the advice of a trusted health-care professional before attempting any form of self-treatment.

How Often for Herbal Cleanses?

Obviously, you will do a colon cleanse at least once. The best, and most effective bowel cleanses on the market take at least a month to do properly. Once you have completed your initial bowel cleanse, you have a choice of either repeating the same cleanse immediately, or doing it seasonally for "maintenance." You will have to change your diet and lifestyle along with cleansing, or you will not see any benefit of colon cleansing at all.

How Often for Colon Hydrotherapy?

Colon hydrotherapy, or colonic irrigation, is usually performed in a series of ten visits to be really effective. Clients can make appointments daily, two or three times a week, weekly, or whenever they can find the time. Each visit takes about an hour to complete.

Which Is Best?

This is entirely up to you. There are benefits to both forms of colon cleansing, and you may find that doing both in tandem is most effective. Try one type of colon cleansing and then the other, and see which one you like best.

About Herbal Cleanses

Really great herbal cleanses usually take a month to do, and include two parts: an intestinal stimulant, which causes an increase in the peristaltic action of the large intestines, and a series of shakes, which combine herbs and bentonite clay, which draws old, dried fecal material and toxins out of bowel pockets where they can become trapped.


One company describes the stages in a thorough bowel cleanse this way:

Stimulate peristaltic action of the large intestines. Assist the breaking up of waste material. Rid the body of mucoid plaque. Cleanse the blood, tissues, lymphatic system. The person moves to a high fiber, high raw fruit and vegetable, preferably vegetarian diet, eats three meals a day, and begins drinking at least a half gallon of water daily. This stage takes one-to-two weeks to accomplish.

Balance energy. During colon detoxing, many old toxins are released that can go into the bloodstream. Many people report feeling tired or having low energy on a colon cleanse, and they quit. The top colon cleanses use herbs to give more energy during the detox.

Add probiotics to nourish and balance the digestive tract. L. acidophilus, L. salivarius and bifidobacterium strains attach better to human cells.

A "P and B shake" is essential to "vacuum" old, dried fecal material out of bowel crevices and pockets. The "P" stands for psyllium husks and seeds, which act like an herbal scrub brush. The "B" stands for bentonite clay, which is a form of volcanic ash. It acts like a sponge to soak up toxins. Some companies substitute herbs in the place of clay. Other herbs are added to the shake to soothe and heal the colon during the detox.

How to Increase Vitamin B17 Intake

Vitamin B17 or laetrile was discovered in 1830. It has been said to prevent the growth of cancer, but this claim is not backed by the Food and Drug Administration. For this reason, B17 does not have a Recommended Dietary Allowance. Follow these steps if you are considering taking vitamin B17.

Eat Apricot seeds. Some companies manufacture naturally-dried seeds that taste like an apricot spice. It was thought 35 years ago that if one ate 7 apricot seeds a day, they would never acquire cancer for as long as they live. Some people still believe this theory today.

Include flax in your diet. Flax seed and flax seed oil are good sources of B17. Flax seed oil isn't good for cooking, but you can add it to salad dressing recipes and smoothies. Put flax seed in your bread and muffin recipes.


Eat barley to increase your B17 intake. Make barley soup and include barley in all kinds of other recipes from chicken to fish dishes to add a nutty flavor to your food.

Eat bitter almonds, not the common sweet almonds, garbanzo beans and lentils which also are good sources of B17.

Remember you can also choose to take a B17 supplement instead. Since B17 isn't acknowledged as a supplement by the FDA, you won't typically find it in most daily vitamins. You can find it in health food stores and online.

Eat foods rich in vitamin C, other B vitamins, vitamin A, manganese, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. Eating foods rich in B17 will help your body absorb B17 more efficiently.

How to Eat Healthy at White Castle

The words "healthy" and "White Castle" may not always go hand in hand, but if it's your only restaurant option, you don't have to ruin your diet to eat there. Planning ahead and knowing your best options before you order can make a big difference. It's important to note that the menu and nutrition information change, so check the website for the most current information.

Best Breakfast Options

The breakfast menu features a number of slider sandwiches, and this helps keep portions small and calories low. The breakfast slider with egg and cheese is the lowest-calorie option on the breakfast menu with 160 calories, 7 grams of total fat, 3 grams of saturated fat, 13 grams of carbs and 320 milligrams of sodium. The breakfast slider with hamburger and eggs is the lowest carb and sodium option with 190 calories, 12 grams of carbs and 200 milligrams of sodium, but it is a little higher in fat with 11 grams of total fat and 4 grams of saturated fat.

White Castle also offers wheat toast with 140 calories, 2 grams of total fat, 28 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fiber and 300 milligrams of sodium, and the maple and brown sugar oatmeal yields 160 calories, 2 grams of total fat, 32 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber and 230 milligrams of sodium. This makes it one of the healthier breakfast options on the menu.

You can also get a breakfast toast sandwich with eggs and cheese and request wheat toast to up the nutrition and make it more filling, but that's higher in calories, carbs and sodium, with about 230 calories, 9 grams of total fat, 3 grams of saturated fat, 29 grams of carbs and 500 milligrams of sodium per sandwich.


Meat and Chicken Sliders

As is the case with breakfast sandwiches, the size of the White Castle sliders helps keep calories low. The key is to try to limit how many you eat. Whether you're watching calories, carbs or sodium, the simpler you keep your slider, the easier it is to stick to your diet. One Original Slider contains 140 calories, 6 grams of total fat, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 13 grams of carbs and 360 milligram of sodium. Unless your White Castle is in New York or New Jersey, the carbs and sodium in your Original Slider increase to 15 grams of carbs and 410 milligrams of sodium.

The plain Savory Grilled Chicken Slider makes the best choice no matter what you're counting. One of these sandwiches contains 180 calories, 7 grams of total fat, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 13 grams of carbs and 570 milligrams of sodium.

Veggie Sliders

White Castle offers meat-free options too. The Plain Veggie Slider with 150 calories, 5 grams of total fat, 20 grams of carbs and 270 milligrams of sodium is the lowest in calories, carbs and sodium.

Also, to really save on calories, consider the traditional bun with cheese option, which has 90 calories, 3 grams of total fat, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 12 grams of carbs and 260 milligrams of sodium.

Sides and Drinks

The White Castle menu does not offer any nonfried side options, making it difficult to round out your meal. Like your burgers, your side order should be small, without any extras, to save on calories and carbs. On a positive note, the french fries at White Castle are low in sodium, but they're high in fat and saturated fat. One small order of fries contains 330 calories, 21 grams of total fat, 4 grams of saturated fat, 32 grams of carbs and 50 milligrams of sodium. The clam strips are low in carbs and the lowest calorie side option with 210 calories, 17 grams of total fat, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 5 grams of carbs and 620 milligrams of sodium.

Unsweetened iced tea and water make good drink choices to go with your White Castle meal. The restaurant also offers 1-percent-fat milk, a low-calorie source of protein and calcium.

How to Eat Healthy at Red Robin

Eating healthy at restaurants is tough, but Red Robin offers some relatively diet-friendly options. The casual dining restaurant offers an interactive tool called The Customizer that helps you modify meals to fit your diet plan. While using the tool requires you to do a little work before your visit to Red Robin, it may help you enjoy your dining experience more.
Menu items and ingredients may change, which may affect nutrition information.

Burger With Adjustments

If you're trying to eat healthier, the Keep It Simple or Simply Grilled may be your best burger-style option at Red Robin. The Simply Grilled Chicken Burger is lower in calories than the Keep It Simple Burger but is high in sodium and carbs.

One serving of the Simply Grilled Chicken Burger without margarine has 355 calories, 6 grams of fat, 51 grams of carbs and 985 milligrams of sodium. To save calories, carbs, fat and sodium, order the chicken burger without the bun. The bunless chicken has 115 calories, 2 grams of fat, 8 grams of carbs, 19 grams of protein and 495 milligrams of sodium.

For comparison, the Keep It Simple Burger without the bun, margarine or Red Robin Seasoning has 306 calories, 20 grams of fat, 4 grams of carbs, 27 grams of protein and 304 milligrams of sodium.

Customize a Salad

Like the burgers at Red Robin, the Simply Grilled Chicken Salad makes a good choice when trying to eat healthy. Make some modifications to lighten the calories, carbs and sodium content by asking for the salad without the garlic bread, croutons or cheese. This customized salad has 324 calories, 6 grams of fat, 42 grams of carbs, 7 grams of fiber, 31 grams of protein and 628 milligrams of sodium.

The Avo-Cabo Salad without the bacon, blue cheese or garlic bread also makes a good choice, especially for carb counters, but it is high in fat and sodium. One order of this customized salad has 327 calories, 17 grams of fat, 18 grams of carbs, 9 grams of fiber, 30 grams of protein and 535 milligrams of sodium.


Soup and Side Salad

Consider making a meal using the Soup and Side Salad menu at Red Robin. A cup of either the Chicken Tortilla Soup or Chili make low-calorie choices, although they are high in sodium.

For example, a cup of Chicken Tortilla Soup with a House Salad without dressing has 378 calories, 18 grams of fat, 38 grams of carbs, 4 grams of fiber, 20 grams of protein and 1,160 milligrams of sodium.

You can save a lot of calories and fat and a little sodium if you omit the sour cream and cheese from your order. Soup and salad without the sour cream or cheese has 249 calories, 6 grams of fat, 12 grams of protein and 974 milligrams of sodium. For your salad, ask for the low-cal or fat-free dressing on the side.

Order the Right Side

Burgers typically come with french fries, but if you're trying to eat healthy, you're better off skipping them. In addition to a side salad substitution, Red Robin also offers Steamed Broccoli as a side, which has 32 calories, 6 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein and 31 milligrams of sodium.

Or to satisfy your sweet tooth, consider the Freckled Fruit Salad, which has 110 calories, 31 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein and 2 milligrams of sodium.

Both of these side dishes are fat-free.

Avocados for Weight Loss

Avocados may be higher in fat and calories than other fruits, but that doesn't mean you should avoid them when you're trying to lose weight. In fact, they may be able to assist your weight-loss efforts. But like everything you eat, when you're cutting back to lose weight, portions count. Consult your doctor before starting any weight-loss diet.

Avocados and Your Diet

When restricting the calories in your diet, it's important to eat foods rich in nutrients. Not only do avocados act as a source of fat on your weight-loss diet, but they also contain other nutrients you need for good health, including potassium, magnesium, vitamins A, C and E, folate, a variety of B vitamins and phytonutrients such as phytosterols, lutein and zeaxanthin.

Additionally, a study published in 2005 in Nutrition found that including avocados as part of a reduced-calorie diet in place of other sources of fat did not impede weight loss.

Nutrients for Satiety

Avocados may aid in weight loss by helping control hunger. A review article published in 2013 in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition said that even though avocados have a higher calorie density, their fiber, water and fat content make them a filling and appetite-satisfying food.

A standard serving of an avocado, which is one-fifth of the fruit or 30 grams, contains 2 grams of fiber. People who get more fiber in their diet eat fewer calories without trying, according to a review article published in 2001 in Nutrition Reviews. Adding avocados to your weight-loss diet may help you feel more satisfied while eating less.


Calories Still Count

Although they may assist with weight loss, avocados are still a source of calories. The standard serving of an avocado contains 44 calories. However, according to Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, most people tend to eat half of an avocado at a time, which contains 100 calories.

Being mindful of the amount you eat and tracking your intake is important when following any weight-loss plan, especially when including a more calorie-dense food like the avocado.

Tips for Adding Avocados

A good way to control calories when adding avocados to your weight-loss diet is by using them in place of other foods. For example, instead of cheese or mayonnaise on your sandwich, add a couple of slices of avocados for moisture. Or, mash a few slices in a bowl and use it as a spread for your toast or bagel or even a baked potato. You can also add a small amount of avocado to your fruit smoothie to help control hunger.

Avocado Extract

Avocado extract is a supplement made from the sugar in the fruit. According to RxList, there is preliminary evidence that the extract may help prevent the breakdown of sugar and block the effects of insulin. It is touted as an aid to weight loss, but there is very little evidence to support the claims, according to RxList. Talk to your doctor before adding any dietary supplements to your diet.

How to Eat Healthy at Golden Corral

Eating out is tough enough when you're ordering off of a menu, but when it's a buffet, it's even tougher. Golden Corral is known for its bountiful buffet. The key to dining out at Golden Corral is to not go too hungry and stick with the veggies and lean proteins.

Menu and nutrition information changes. Check the website for the most up-to-date menu.

Salad Buffet

The Salad Buffet at Golden Corral is a good place to start when trying to eat healthy. This part of the buffet is loaded with a number of low-calorie, nutrient-rich choices. Stick with the fresh fruits and veggies and steer clear of the cooked and mayonnaise-based salads. Good choices include leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, mushrooms, onions and zucchini.

For protein, try the boiled eggs, chickpeas or kidney beans. The beans are a source of sodium, however, with 180 milligrams per 1/4 cup. You may also find soy nuts on the Salad Buffet at Golden Corral, which is also a good source of protein and low in sodium with 50 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 35 milligrams of sodium, 4 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber and 5 grams of protein per 2-tablespoon serving.

Add a touch of the Lite Vinaigrette and thin it out with vinegar to add a bit of flavor with less calories, fat and sodium.

Hot Buffet

Fill at least half your plate with steamed vegetables to limit calorie, carbs or fat in your diet. Good options include the steamed baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, onions and peppers and steamed squash.

Some of the vegetable items on the buffet are high in sodium, such as the collard greens and green beans, with 330 milligrams and 520 milligrams of sodium per 1/2-cup serving, respectively.

Round out your meal with a healthy protein such as the chicken breast, which has 100 calories, 2.5 grams of total fat, 390 milligrams of sodium, 3 grams of carbs and 17 grams of protein per serving. A 3-ounce portion of the fajita steak also makes a good protein choice with 150 calories, 6 grams of fat, 3 grams of saturated fat, 210 milligrams of sodium, 1 gram of carbs and 24 grams of protein.

Even if you're packing your plate with healthy foods, you could still be taking in several servings -- and more calories than you intended. Use a small plate to help keep portions reasonable.


Soups and Potatoes

Although high in sodium, many of the soup options at Golden Corral are low in calories. Combine a soup with a garden salad from the Salad Buffet for a low-cal meal. One cup of the Chicken and Gumbo soup has 70 calories, 1 gram of fat, 750 milligrams of sodium, 17 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber and 5 grams of protein.

The baked sweet potato is fat-free and low in sodium and makes a healthy side dish option, with 110 calories, 70 milligrams of sodium, 26 grams of carbs, 4 grams of fiber and 2 grams of protein.

Breakfast Buffet

You may have a more difficult time sticking to your diet at the Breakfast Buffet. Many of the morning options are high in carbs, sodium or fat. The Blueberry Pancakes make a good choice if you can limit your portion. One pancake has 80 calories, 4 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat, 15 milligrams of sodium, 10 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber and 2 grams of protein. Use a fruit topping for sweetness instead of the maple syrup to save calories. A 2-tablespoon serving of a fruit topping has about 35 calories to 40 calories, 15 milligrams of sodium and 9 grams to 10 grams of carbs.

Carb counters should consider the Turkey Canadian Bacon, which has 50 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat and 6 grams of protein per two pieces, although it is high in sodium with 310 milligrams per serving.

How to Explain to Children the Importance of Nutrition

Children are motivated to learn about the world around them. Food and nutrition can be exciting topics of conversation for your children if you make them so. Plenty of resources are available to aid in the discussion of healthy foods and vitamins. Many of these resources are free, available for download from the Internet, and come from reputable sources such as the United States Department of Agriculture. You can also engage your children in conversation around the dinner table by using your own knowledge of healthy foods.

Keep it simple. You must gauge the level of explanation that is appropriate for your child based on age, curiosity and interest. One method that is widely used by health professionals to teach children about nutrition is the "Go, Slow, Whoa" method, in which foods are categorized based on green, yellow and red lights. The healthiest foods are green "go" foods, foods to consume in moderate amounts are yellow "slow" foods, and sweets and fatty foods are considered red light "whoa" foods. Quiz your children on what category they believe certain foods should be in. For example, cookies are red light foods, white breads are yellow light foods and vegetables are green light foods.


Use real food. Have these discussions over dinner. Point to the foods on their plates and say "Carrots are good for your eyes." Just like adults, children absorb more information when they have first-hand experience with something. Plan meals with your children, take them to the grocery store with you and let them help you prepare meals. The more hands-on experience they have with food, the greater their understanding will be about where foods come from, how they are made and how they will benefit their health.

Use games. Children are playful and competitive, so use these qualities to your advantage while teaching them new things. Video games are available online that teach children about nutrition. One such game, Nutrition Blast Off, is free to access from the United States Department of Agriculture's website. Your children will be entertained and educated at the same time. Promote these activities, along with fun quizzes, homemade crossword puzzles and word finders. You will likely find that your children are having fun and enjoying the process of learning about nutrition and health.

Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Their names are often used interchangeably, but the sweet potato and yam are two different types of root vegetables. A sweet potato has orange-colored flesh, while the yam has white flesh, and in most cases you may have been calling the sweet potato a yam. No matter what you call it, know that when you eat the sweet, orange root vegetable you're doing your body a wealth of good by upping your nutritional intake.

Rich in Antioxidants

If you're trying to get more antioxidants in your diet, you can't go wrong with sweet potatoes. They're an excellent source of vitamin C, beta carotene and manganese. Antioxidants from foods like sweet potatoes serve as a defense mechanism against cell-damaging free radicals. This protection may help prevent aging and lower your risk of certain illnesses such as heart disease and Alzheimer's.

Good for Vision

One of the reasons the sweet potato makes such a healthy addition to your diet is because of its vitamin A content. One cup of a baked sweet potato with the skin meets almost 800 percent of the daily value for vitamin A. Also known as retinol, vitamin A helps you see better because it produces the pigments in your retina, which is especially helpful for seeing at night. In addition to helping your vision, vitamin A also helps maintain healthy skin, teeth and bones.


Better Bowels

If you're having a tough time meeting your daily fiber needs, sweet potatoes can help. A 1-cup serving has nearly 7 grams of fiber, meeting more than 20 percent of the daily value. Getting more fiber in your diet is a good way to help keep your bowels regular and prevent constipation. It also fills you up, which means it makes a good option for those trying to limit their calorie intake to lose weight.

Even Good for the Bones

Sweet potatoes are also rich in a number of nutrients that you need for healthy and strong bones. In addition to the vitamin A, sweet potatoes are a source of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. One cup of a cooked sweet potato meets 8 percent of the daily value for calcium, 14 percent of the daily value for magnesium and 11 percent of the daily value for phosphorus. All three of these minerals are needed for bone structure and strength.

Loaded With B-6 and Potassium

Sweet potatoes are also an excellent source of vitamin B-6 and potassium, meeting more than 25 percent of the daily value for both in a 1-cup serving. Vitamin B-6 helps you fight off disease, make hemoglobin and break down proteins. Potassium assists in the communication between your nerves and muscles and is need to get nutrients in and waste out of your cells.

How to Lose Weight By Eating Fruits

Losing weight includes eating a healthy diet and exercising. Eating a variety of fruits is beneficial to the body. Fruits provide the essential vitamins that the body needs. There are many fruits that can be eaten to make you lose weight. Eating fruits that contain a lot of water will fill your stomach, reducing the need for high calorie food.

Add grapefruit to your daily diet. Eating grapefruit will not only supply your body with essential vitamins, but can also help to lose weight. Grapefruit does not only contains vitamins and minerals, but is also a low calorie fruit.

Eat an apple a day. Eating an apple a day is recommended to promote good health and digestion. Apple is low in calories and is considered to be one of the most effective weight loss fruit.


Prepare a fruit salad using watermelon or it can be eaten alone. Watermelon is rich in antioxidant, which is essential to the body. Watermelon is also a low calorie food, that can help you to lose weight.

Eat kiwi to naturally lose weight. Kiwi is rich in fiber and vitamin C, including many other health benefits. Eating kiwi regularly can help to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight.

Include a few strawberries to your grocery basket, on your next trip to the grocery store. Strawberries are tasty and delicious. Strawberries can be eaten alone or can be prepared with other fruits to make a fruit salad. These tasty fruits are great for losing weight.