People like to think that men’s brains and women’s brains are fundamentally the same. But research indicates that men and women do in fact have different structures and wiring in the brain, and men and women may also use their brains differently.
Men do score better at tasks that involve orienting objects in space, while women do better at language tests.
Scientists have known for a while now that men and women have slightly different brains, but for many years they thought the changes were limited to the hypothalamus -- the part of your brain that controls sex drive and food intake.
In 2001, researchers found that certain parts of the brain were differently sized in males and females. The study found that parts of the frontal lobe, responsible for problem-solving and decision-making, and the limbic cortex, responsible for regulating emotions, were larger in women. In men, the parietal cortex, which is involved in space perception, and the amygdala, which regulates sexual and social behavior, were larger.
Men also have approximately 6.5 times more gray matter in the brain than women, and women have about 10 times more white matter than men do. This difference may account for differences in how men and women think -- gray matter is full of active neurons, while white matter consists more of connections between the neurons.
A woman's brain is a bit more complicated in setup, but those connections may allow a woman's brain to work faster than a man's.
However, average IQ scores are the same for both men and women.
Watch this video and find out who's smarter http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/11/27/who-are-smarter-men-or-women.aspx
Friday, November 28, 2008
Irritating Throat
As the flu begins to attack we must be ready for anything that may happen, so here are some folk remedies for an irritating throat.
That difficulty swallowing and the feeling ofburning throat is often the first symptom of a cold or the flu.
Folk remedies
Remedy popular # 1:. Boil three leaves of lemon in a cup of water for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add a teaspoon of honey. Slowly drinking tea when it is still warm.
Remedy popular # 2: Add a tablespoon of baking soda in a large glass of water. Take, for sips during the day.
# 3: Mix one teaspoon of table salt in half a liter of water at room temperature. Then, gargle made approximately every hour.
Recommendations
Place a humidifier in the room.
Increase consumption of fluids.
Discard your toothbrush.
Raise your head if you have problems with reflux
Visiting a doctor if one or more of the following symptoms
Irritation of the throat for a long time or a recurring
Shortness of breath
Joint aches, ear, or a tumor in his neck.
Fever above the 38.3 ° C
Hoarseness for more than two weeks.
Saliva or phlegm bloody.
That difficulty swallowing and the feeling ofburning throat is often the first symptom of a cold or the flu.
Folk remedies
Remedy popular # 1:. Boil three leaves of lemon in a cup of water for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add a teaspoon of honey. Slowly drinking tea when it is still warm.
Remedy popular # 2: Add a tablespoon of baking soda in a large glass of water. Take, for sips during the day.
# 3: Mix one teaspoon of table salt in half a liter of water at room temperature. Then, gargle made approximately every hour.
Recommendations
Place a humidifier in the room.
Increase consumption of fluids.
Discard your toothbrush.
Raise your head if you have problems with reflux
Visiting a doctor if one or more of the following symptoms
Irritation of the throat for a long time or a recurring
Shortness of breath
Joint aches, ear, or a tumor in his neck.
Fever above the 38.3 ° C
Hoarseness for more than two weeks.
Saliva or phlegm bloody.
10 Foods that actually bring Pain
So I love food and to find out that there is some food that can cause pain to some people is very upsetting to me. ( Maybe all that pain your feeling is from the food your eating)
10 Foods That Bring on Pain
An estimated 40 million Americans live with what they describe as chronic pain, and many more suffer from acute bouts of pain. But for some, pain-free living could be a dietary change away.
When people eliminate certain foods from their diets, their symptoms are often eliminated or reduced. Here are some of the worst pain-inducing offenders for headaches, acid reflux and arthritis.
However, results may vary -- reactions are different for every person.
Tomatoes
For the millions of Americans who suffer from heartburn and acid reflux, tomatoes are a chest pain waiting to happen. When you ingest tomatoes or spicy foods, your lower esophageal sphincter has an abnormal relaxation, and it allows the acid contents of the stomach to splash back up into the esophagus. This causes the discomfort known as heartburn.
And although everyone experiences small amounts of reflux every day, some people's acid reflux is so severe that the excessive amount of acid actually breaks down the lining of the esophagus, leading to extraordinary pain.
Citrus Fruits
The acid reflux-inducing nature of citrus fruits can vary from person to person, but the most common offenders are oranges, grapefruits and lemons. As with tomatoes, it is the high acid content of these fruits that causes the pain. The aggravation is the same as well; eating citrus-y foods affects the lower esophageal sphincter in much the same way as tomatoes.
Bacon
Bacon can be the cause of arthritic pain, especially when the meats are deep fried. Bacon may form the internal substances that are responsible for inflammation, and it's this inflammation that leads to increased arthritic pain. And if the prostaglandins and leukotrienes don't get to you, the extra weight you'll put on by eating too much bacon will -- the greatest effect of diet on arthritis is weight control.
Eggs
Eggs contain the same pro-inflammatory agents as bacon. Eggs contain arachidonic acid, and as this acid is broken down by the body, it can lead to the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins. These inflammatory prostaglandins can lead to increased swelling and joint pain.
Cheese
Excess cheese consumption can cause pain in several ways. One may be a reaction to the protein found in the cheese -- very similar to an allergic reaction. This can lead to inflammation.
Soft Drinks
Soft drinks are among of the most consumed beverages in the United States. This "liquid candy" is so ubiquitous that it contributes to about 10 percent of the calories consumed in the average American diet. And diets that are high in sugar have been associated with inflammation, since excess sugar consumption can lead to obesity, which is known to cause joint pain and swelling.
The average 12-ounce can of soda contains 136 empty calories and 33 grams of sugar -- the equivalent of 11 sugar packets or more in every can.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains the chemical phenylethylamine, and too much of it may affect concentration and can cause a nasty "chocolate hangover" for some. Different kinds of chocolate affect people differently, which could be due to the amount of cocoa or caffeine found various kinds of chocolate in chocolate.
Wine
Drinking too much wine can cause just about anyone to get a headache, but for some people drinking even a tiny amount of wine will bring on a vicious migraine, nausea and flushing. It was previously believed that red wine headaches were caused by sulfites in the wine, but it is now thought that the only people who have a reaction to the sulfites in red wine are people who already have sulfite allergies.
Instead, wine headaches may be caused by the amino acid tyramine, which have been shown to induce migraines in many people. Wine headaches could also be caused by the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
Processed Meat
Processed meats such as lunch meat, hot dogs and sausages contain chemicals such as nitrites that are associated with increased inflammation and chronic disease. This is partially due to the unhealthy fats used in preparing and processing these foods, especially trans fats.
Potato Chips
Potatoes are part of the nightshade family. Members of this family of plants has been associated in the past with increased inflammation and arthritic pain. Certain proteins in potatoes may also trigger a bad reaction in some people, quite similar to an allergic reaction. This reaction could cause painful migraines or arthritic flare-ups.
10 Foods That Bring on Pain
An estimated 40 million Americans live with what they describe as chronic pain, and many more suffer from acute bouts of pain. But for some, pain-free living could be a dietary change away.
When people eliminate certain foods from their diets, their symptoms are often eliminated or reduced. Here are some of the worst pain-inducing offenders for headaches, acid reflux and arthritis.
However, results may vary -- reactions are different for every person.
Tomatoes
For the millions of Americans who suffer from heartburn and acid reflux, tomatoes are a chest pain waiting to happen. When you ingest tomatoes or spicy foods, your lower esophageal sphincter has an abnormal relaxation, and it allows the acid contents of the stomach to splash back up into the esophagus. This causes the discomfort known as heartburn.
And although everyone experiences small amounts of reflux every day, some people's acid reflux is so severe that the excessive amount of acid actually breaks down the lining of the esophagus, leading to extraordinary pain.
Citrus Fruits
The acid reflux-inducing nature of citrus fruits can vary from person to person, but the most common offenders are oranges, grapefruits and lemons. As with tomatoes, it is the high acid content of these fruits that causes the pain. The aggravation is the same as well; eating citrus-y foods affects the lower esophageal sphincter in much the same way as tomatoes.
Bacon
Bacon can be the cause of arthritic pain, especially when the meats are deep fried. Bacon may form the internal substances that are responsible for inflammation, and it's this inflammation that leads to increased arthritic pain. And if the prostaglandins and leukotrienes don't get to you, the extra weight you'll put on by eating too much bacon will -- the greatest effect of diet on arthritis is weight control.
Eggs
Eggs contain the same pro-inflammatory agents as bacon. Eggs contain arachidonic acid, and as this acid is broken down by the body, it can lead to the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins. These inflammatory prostaglandins can lead to increased swelling and joint pain.
Cheese
Excess cheese consumption can cause pain in several ways. One may be a reaction to the protein found in the cheese -- very similar to an allergic reaction. This can lead to inflammation.
Soft Drinks
Soft drinks are among of the most consumed beverages in the United States. This "liquid candy" is so ubiquitous that it contributes to about 10 percent of the calories consumed in the average American diet. And diets that are high in sugar have been associated with inflammation, since excess sugar consumption can lead to obesity, which is known to cause joint pain and swelling.
The average 12-ounce can of soda contains 136 empty calories and 33 grams of sugar -- the equivalent of 11 sugar packets or more in every can.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains the chemical phenylethylamine, and too much of it may affect concentration and can cause a nasty "chocolate hangover" for some. Different kinds of chocolate affect people differently, which could be due to the amount of cocoa or caffeine found various kinds of chocolate in chocolate.
Wine
Drinking too much wine can cause just about anyone to get a headache, but for some people drinking even a tiny amount of wine will bring on a vicious migraine, nausea and flushing. It was previously believed that red wine headaches were caused by sulfites in the wine, but it is now thought that the only people who have a reaction to the sulfites in red wine are people who already have sulfite allergies.
Instead, wine headaches may be caused by the amino acid tyramine, which have been shown to induce migraines in many people. Wine headaches could also be caused by the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
Processed Meat
Processed meats such as lunch meat, hot dogs and sausages contain chemicals such as nitrites that are associated with increased inflammation and chronic disease. This is partially due to the unhealthy fats used in preparing and processing these foods, especially trans fats.
Potato Chips
Potatoes are part of the nightshade family. Members of this family of plants has been associated in the past with increased inflammation and arthritic pain. Certain proteins in potatoes may also trigger a bad reaction in some people, quite similar to an allergic reaction. This reaction could cause painful migraines or arthritic flare-ups.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Best Kept Secret for Treating Depression
Best Kept Secret for Treating Depression
Every year, 230 million prescriptions for antidepressants are filled, making them one of the most-prescribed drugs in the United States. Despite all of these prescription drugs being taken, more than one in 20 Americans are depressed, according to statistics that came out from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier this month. Of them, 80 percent said they have some level of functional impairment, and 27 percent said it is extremely difficult to do everyday tasks like work, getting things done at home or getting along with others because of the condition. Why are so many people feeling so low, even though antidepressants -- the supposed “cure” for depression -- are so widely available? Because antidepressants are barely effective, and they increase your risk of many serious side effects. Watch this video and find out the best kept secret for treating depression.http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/09/30/best-kept-secret-for-treating-depression.aspx
Every year, 230 million prescriptions for antidepressants are filled, making them one of the most-prescribed drugs in the United States. Despite all of these prescription drugs being taken, more than one in 20 Americans are depressed, according to statistics that came out from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier this month. Of them, 80 percent said they have some level of functional impairment, and 27 percent said it is extremely difficult to do everyday tasks like work, getting things done at home or getting along with others because of the condition. Why are so many people feeling so low, even though antidepressants -- the supposed “cure” for depression -- are so widely available? Because antidepressants are barely effective, and they increase your risk of many serious side effects. Watch this video and find out the best kept secret for treating depression.http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/09/30/best-kept-secret-for-treating-depression.aspx
A laugh a day keeps the doctor away
A hearty laugh a day may keep the doctor away, say the findings of a unique study. Whereas previous studies have examined how negative emotions can adversely affect our health, this study took a new spin--they measured the affect of watching a funny movie on the ability of heart blood vessels to expand. And they found some surprising results--laughing increased blood flow as much as a 15- to 30-minute workout.
The ability of blood vessels to expand is known as vasodilatation. Poor vasodilatation means that passageways may be blocked and blood flow may be cut off. The result is an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Blood flow decreased by about 35 percent after experiencing stress
Blood flow increased by 22 percent after laughing, which is equivalent to what happens after a 15- to 30-minute workout
Blood flow decreased by about 35 percent after experiencing stress
Blood flow increased by 22 percent after laughing, which is equivalent to what happens after a 15- to 30-minute workout
Past studies have found that stress hormones like adrenalin and cortisol, which is released when a person is stressed, may harm the body by suppressing the immune system and constricting blood vessels. On the other hand, the researchers believe laughing causes the body to release beneficial chemicals called endorphins, which may counteract the effects of stress hormones and cause blood vessels to dilate.
In a similar manner, laughing may also boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, which is thought to increase the risk of various health problems. The researchers say they have a long way to go before their hypothesis will be proven, but they point out that there's no downside to laughing and they have no problem recommending it to their patients.
STRESS
We have all suffered at some point in our lives to stress.
However, what is really stress? What effects does stress have on our health? What folk remedies exist to counter it?
Many people think that stress the word itself carries a negative connotation, but in truth, it is not. Stress that stays at acceptable levels, impels us to respond to the needs and demands of the environment which gives zest for life, liberates our creativity and encourages the use of our resources. However, when the stress exceeds or surpasses by far the skills and capabilities to respond to the environment, it becomes negative stress or distress in that case it is a health risk.
The most immediate signs of stress are fatigue, the emergence of problems sleeping and irritability. It may even cause physical reactions in the body such as granite, sweating, dandruff, hair loss and even affects the digestive system.
With the passage of time, stress can affect the immune system of the person making it constantly cold. It can cause, headaches, and even high blood pressure.
Folk remedies
1. Flowers of orange blossom
2. Prepare a juice of a banana, half pear, five strawberries and a tablespoon of brewer's yeast. To prepare it, you should peel the fruit, chop and put in a blend
Recommendations
Take time for yourself.
You are therefore advised to save an hour each day to read a book or go for a walk. The latter activity is excellent, especially in a park, and that contact with green and fresh scent helps fight stress. It is important to choose an activity that does not involve an effort; it must be something pleasant rather than raise it as a bounden duty.
Setting priorities and not try to do everything at once
Learn to say no.
Monitor our diet.
Getting enough sleep
Exercise is fundamental
Learn relaxation techniques.
Find an advisory council
Comply with any reward from time to time
See the situation that produces stress from another point of view other than
However, what is really stress? What effects does stress have on our health? What folk remedies exist to counter it?
Many people think that stress the word itself carries a negative connotation, but in truth, it is not. Stress that stays at acceptable levels, impels us to respond to the needs and demands of the environment which gives zest for life, liberates our creativity and encourages the use of our resources. However, when the stress exceeds or surpasses by far the skills and capabilities to respond to the environment, it becomes negative stress or distress in that case it is a health risk.
The most immediate signs of stress are fatigue, the emergence of problems sleeping and irritability. It may even cause physical reactions in the body such as granite, sweating, dandruff, hair loss and even affects the digestive system.
With the passage of time, stress can affect the immune system of the person making it constantly cold. It can cause, headaches, and even high blood pressure.
Folk remedies
1. Flowers of orange blossom
2. Prepare a juice of a banana, half pear, five strawberries and a tablespoon of brewer's yeast. To prepare it, you should peel the fruit, chop and put in a blend
Recommendations
Take time for yourself.
You are therefore advised to save an hour each day to read a book or go for a walk. The latter activity is excellent, especially in a park, and that contact with green and fresh scent helps fight stress. It is important to choose an activity that does not involve an effort; it must be something pleasant rather than raise it as a bounden duty.
Setting priorities and not try to do everything at once
Learn to say no.
Monitor our diet.
Getting enough sleep
Exercise is fundamental
Learn relaxation techniques.
Find an advisory council
Comply with any reward from time to time
See the situation that produces stress from another point of view other than
Thursday, November 13, 2008
The amazing power of music
Music
Music is a great mood regulator, whether it’s used in conjunction with exercise or not. Loud, upbeat music generally has a stimulating effect, whereas slow music can act as a sedative.
It’s very encouraging that more and more health professionals are beginning to realize the value of simple techniques such as music, using it as an adjunct to promote healing even in more conventional medical settings. As pediatrician Linda Fisher stated in the article above, it’s the music’s rhythm, melody and tonal quality that puts the patient in that “special place of peace” where healing can be achieved faster.
For example, harp music might be particularly helpful for people who have heart trouble. Harvard researchers have shown that the rhythms of healthy hearts may be similar to those found in classical music, and that certain rhythms, such as that of harp music can cause your heart to beat more normally.
Other studies from the early 1990s concluded that music significantly lowered the heart rates and calmed and regulated the blood pressures and respiration rates of patients who had undergone surgery.
Music therapy has also been shown to:
Improve motor skills in patients recovering from strokes
Boost your immune system
Improve mental focus
Help control pain
Create a feeling of well-being
Reduce anxiety
Read this article to find out more information about music http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/11/04/the-amazing-power-of-music-revealed.aspx
Music is a great mood regulator, whether it’s used in conjunction with exercise or not. Loud, upbeat music generally has a stimulating effect, whereas slow music can act as a sedative.
It’s very encouraging that more and more health professionals are beginning to realize the value of simple techniques such as music, using it as an adjunct to promote healing even in more conventional medical settings. As pediatrician Linda Fisher stated in the article above, it’s the music’s rhythm, melody and tonal quality that puts the patient in that “special place of peace” where healing can be achieved faster.
For example, harp music might be particularly helpful for people who have heart trouble. Harvard researchers have shown that the rhythms of healthy hearts may be similar to those found in classical music, and that certain rhythms, such as that of harp music can cause your heart to beat more normally.
Other studies from the early 1990s concluded that music significantly lowered the heart rates and calmed and regulated the blood pressures and respiration rates of patients who had undergone surgery.
Music therapy has also been shown to:
Improve motor skills in patients recovering from strokes
Boost your immune system
Improve mental focus
Help control pain
Create a feeling of well-being
Reduce anxiety
Read this article to find out more information about music http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/11/04/the-amazing-power-of-music-revealed.aspx
A Cure for Your Cough
The cough is the form used by the body to expel sharply from the respiratory tract damaging substances like dust, excess mucus or other foreign matter.
There are several types of coughs. A cough that appears at the end of a cold or flu which is a thick expectoration. Another non-productive, dry, which only serves to irritate the airways and lead to more coughing. There are also occasional cough and cosquilleante without sore throat and is caused by smoking.
The causes of cough are varied:
Bronchitis,
Smoking
Stress
Allergies
Moisture-free environments.
Irritants
Side effects of medications.
Folk remedies
Remedy popular # 1: macerate for several hours, the grated radish mixed with an abundant sugar o miel. or honey. Take several tablespoons a day.
Remedy popular # 2: Mix ¼ cup of water with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and drinking it slowly.
Remedy popular # 3: Do gargle with salt water
Remedy popular # 4: Prepare a syrup mixture of cherry juice or fresh carrots with honey in equal parts.
Remedy popular # 5: Boil a rate of milk with a teaspoon of honey and sesame oil.
Remedy popular # 6: Eat a clove of garlic every three hours can be beneficial.
Recommendations
Spray room with the person who suffers a cough.
Strive to drink a lot to release the mucus.
Consult a physician if the cough does not refer at the end of a week or intensifies and becomes more complicated with fever, chest pain and nausea to rule out the possibility of another physical problem.
In the case of infants or young children, you should consult a doctor en cuanto sea posible.as soon as possible.
There are several types of coughs. A cough that appears at the end of a cold or flu which is a thick expectoration. Another non-productive, dry, which only serves to irritate the airways and lead to more coughing. There are also occasional cough and cosquilleante without sore throat and is caused by smoking.
The causes of cough are varied:
Bronchitis,
Smoking
Stress
Allergies
Moisture-free environments.
Irritants
Side effects of medications.
Folk remedies
Remedy popular # 1: macerate for several hours, the grated radish mixed with an abundant sugar o miel. or honey. Take several tablespoons a day.
Remedy popular # 2: Mix ¼ cup of water with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and drinking it slowly.
Remedy popular # 3: Do gargle with salt water
Remedy popular # 4: Prepare a syrup mixture of cherry juice or fresh carrots with honey in equal parts.
Remedy popular # 5: Boil a rate of milk with a teaspoon of honey and sesame oil.
Remedy popular # 6: Eat a clove of garlic every three hours can be beneficial.
Recommendations
Spray room with the person who suffers a cough.
Strive to drink a lot to release the mucus.
Consult a physician if the cough does not refer at the end of a week or intensifies and becomes more complicated with fever, chest pain and nausea to rule out the possibility of another physical problem.
In the case of infants or young children, you should consult a doctor en cuanto sea posible.as soon as possible.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Love Your Pet its Good for Your Health
Most households in the United States have at least one pet. Why do people have pets? There are many reasons.
Some of the health benefits of pets are listed below.
Pets can decrease your:
Blood pressure
Cholesterol levels
Triglyceride levels
Feelings of lonelinessPets can increase your:
Opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
Opportunities for socialization
Health Benefits Of Having A Pet
More and more studies are beginning to show evidence that children who live in homes with animals that have fur (cat, dog, guinea pig,etc) and large animals are less at risk for allergies, eczema (skin rash condition) and asthma. There is also some discussion that children in those homes may have stronger immune system activation.
Heart attack patients who have pets survive longer than those without, according to several studies.
People with pets actually make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical conditions.
Pets help fight depression and loneliness-The antics of animals at play keep you lighthearted. The presence of a dog prompts the daily walk you otherwise might postpone. Having a cat means regular exposure to contented purring, with its guaranteed-to-be calming effect on your psyche. Furry critters encourage life-critical social interactions and feeding and grooming routines offer structure and purpose to a life lived alone.
Pets can help lower your blood pressure-Dr. Karen Allen, a researcher at the State University of New York at Buffalo, showed that people with hypertension who adopted a dog had lower blood pressurereadings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a pet.
Dr. Meredith Wells, an assistant professor of psychology at Eastern Kentucky University, surveyed businesses that allow pets in the workplace and found that employees believe that the animals reduce stress and improve their mental and physical health.
Pets promote social interaction; decrease the feeling of loneliness and isolation, and increase morale and optimism.
Pets satisfy the need for touch and to be touched, and give nonjudgmental warmth and affection.
Pets encourage playfulness, exercise, and laughter.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Burn More
Looking for a few easy ways to burn more calories and lose more weight. Making a few small, smart changes to your everyday routine can make a big difference in the long run.
1. Just park the car. When you go to the grocery store-or whatever your destination may be-park a little farther away from the door rather than driving around in circles trying to find a spot a little closer to the door. You'd be amazed at the extra calories you'll burn by taking those few extra steps.
2. Walking lunch breaks. When lunch time rolls around, allow time for a couple of laps around the parking lot. Start keeping a pair of tennis shoes in your vehicle and after you eat your lunch, throw on your shoes for a quick couple of laps around the parking lot. Walking is a great way to burn calories quickly. Extra tip: Walk in spurts. Speed walk for 2 minutes, and then walk at a moderate pace for 2 minutes. Alternate until you have about 5 minutes left of your lunch break for an easy cool-down. Walking at 3 mph (20min/mile) will burn 159 calories in 30 minutes.
3. Be a kid. 30 minutes of playing vigorously with the kids-your own, your nieces and nephews, the neighbor's....whomever-will help you burn 242 calories. Now that's worth running around the yard and playing tag for a little while, right?
4. Get some sleep. Sleeping burns 43 calories per half hour, so try to get in a full 7 to 8 hours every night. Some people only get a few hours of sleep. every night-you know who you are-and it's not very healthy. You awake in the morning tired and dragging behind for the whole day. A good night's sleep will burn calories as well as give you the energy to get into a more active schedule-which will, in turn, burn more calories. Sleeping is good in moderation!
5. Clean the house. Okay, everyone hates to clean, but here's the realization on how many calories you can burn in 30 minutes by cleaning:
Vacuuming: 169 calories per 30 minutes
1. Just park the car. When you go to the grocery store-or whatever your destination may be-park a little farther away from the door rather than driving around in circles trying to find a spot a little closer to the door. You'd be amazed at the extra calories you'll burn by taking those few extra steps.
2. Walking lunch breaks. When lunch time rolls around, allow time for a couple of laps around the parking lot. Start keeping a pair of tennis shoes in your vehicle and after you eat your lunch, throw on your shoes for a quick couple of laps around the parking lot. Walking is a great way to burn calories quickly. Extra tip: Walk in spurts. Speed walk for 2 minutes, and then walk at a moderate pace for 2 minutes. Alternate until you have about 5 minutes left of your lunch break for an easy cool-down. Walking at 3 mph (20min/mile) will burn 159 calories in 30 minutes.
3. Be a kid. 30 minutes of playing vigorously with the kids-your own, your nieces and nephews, the neighbor's....whomever-will help you burn 242 calories. Now that's worth running around the yard and playing tag for a little while, right?
4. Get some sleep. Sleeping burns 43 calories per half hour, so try to get in a full 7 to 8 hours every night. Some people only get a few hours of sleep. every night-you know who you are-and it's not very healthy. You awake in the morning tired and dragging behind for the whole day. A good night's sleep will burn calories as well as give you the energy to get into a more active schedule-which will, in turn, burn more calories. Sleeping is good in moderation!
5. Clean the house. Okay, everyone hates to clean, but here's the realization on how many calories you can burn in 30 minutes by cleaning:
Vacuuming: 169 calories per 30 minutes
Chocolate
Is Chocolate Actually Good for You?
The answer is a qualified “yes”
Good news for chocolate lovers. It’s OK to indulge those “forbidden” cravings. In fact, it may be downright healthy—if you stick to dark chocolate and don’t overdo it. “Chocolate can be eaten every day if done responsibly,” says registered dietitian Janet Zusi of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network.
More than divinely delicious, chocolate contains powerful plant antioxidants called falconoid. Found in cocoa, the dark part of the cacao bean, falconoid protect cells and promote heart health by lowering blood pressure and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. The other healthy ingredient from cacao beans is cocoa butter. Its fat is highly saturated, but falls into the “good fats” category because it doesn’t elevate LDL and may lower it.
The darker the chocolate, the more cocoa and falconoid, so look for “dark” or “semisweet” chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa content. Milk chocolate has less cocoa and white chocolate none at all, and both have added sugar and high-fat milk.
There are people who should avoid chocolate, even the healthy dark kind. If you have reflux disease, PMS, migraines; the fat, sugar and small amounts of caffeine in chocolate may aggravate your symptoms. And never give chocolate to a pet. It contains a chemical toxic to animals.
One final caution—when it comes to chocolate more isn’t better. “A single ounce contains 150 calories from the fat and sugar,” Zusi says. To keep your consumption no higher than an ounce a day, make the most of that luscious chocolate taste by using it with other, healthier foods. “Sprinkle a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips on fat-free yogurt,” Zusi says, “or mix them into trail mix with nuts, high-fiber cereal and raisins.”
The answer is a qualified “yes”
Good news for chocolate lovers. It’s OK to indulge those “forbidden” cravings. In fact, it may be downright healthy—if you stick to dark chocolate and don’t overdo it. “Chocolate can be eaten every day if done responsibly,” says registered dietitian Janet Zusi of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network.
More than divinely delicious, chocolate contains powerful plant antioxidants called falconoid. Found in cocoa, the dark part of the cacao bean, falconoid protect cells and promote heart health by lowering blood pressure and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. The other healthy ingredient from cacao beans is cocoa butter. Its fat is highly saturated, but falls into the “good fats” category because it doesn’t elevate LDL and may lower it.
The darker the chocolate, the more cocoa and falconoid, so look for “dark” or “semisweet” chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa content. Milk chocolate has less cocoa and white chocolate none at all, and both have added sugar and high-fat milk.
There are people who should avoid chocolate, even the healthy dark kind. If you have reflux disease, PMS, migraines; the fat, sugar and small amounts of caffeine in chocolate may aggravate your symptoms. And never give chocolate to a pet. It contains a chemical toxic to animals.
One final caution—when it comes to chocolate more isn’t better. “A single ounce contains 150 calories from the fat and sugar,” Zusi says. To keep your consumption no higher than an ounce a day, make the most of that luscious chocolate taste by using it with other, healthier foods. “Sprinkle a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips on fat-free yogurt,” Zusi says, “or mix them into trail mix with nuts, high-fiber cereal and raisins.”
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