Free Weight Loss Info

Weight Loss: Secrets To Losing Weight Without Much Efforts

2006-09-21T10:07:00.000-07:00

Weight Loss: Secrets To Losing Weight Without Much Efforts

Are you overweight?
Most people are afraid to admit they are.
It may not be a crime to be overweight, but it can be harmful to your health and life, if you fail to take action to reduce your weight.
Nobody wants to be overweight and ugly.
If you're overweight, are you interested in learning about the positive approach to taking action to deal with it?
Here are some weight loss insights to help you lose weight effortlessly.
It has been reported that one out of every seven Americans may be overweight.
So, being overweight is a problem facing millions of Americans today.
If you are overweight, you can begin today to do something about it.
Once you have made up your mind to lose weight, you should make that commitment and go into it with a positive attitude.
We all know that losing weight can be quite a challenge. In fact, for some, it can be downright tough.
It takes time, practice and support to change lifetime habits.
This is why having the right attitude is of paramount importance.
One well known actress, Kirstie Alley who became overweight has just created a TV show labeled Fat Actress show!
Instead of being at home and feeling sorry for herself for becoming overweight, she decide to create a show about it!
It is an example of having a positive attitude towards a problem and turning a misfortune into a good fortune that will yield millions of dollars.
The discipline required to modify and control your eating habits and to lose weight is a process you must learn in order to succeed.
You and you alone are the one who has the power to lose unwanted pounds.
Think like a winner, and not a loser - - remember that emotions are like muscles and the ones you use most grow the strongest.
If you always look at the negative side of things, you'll become a downbeat, pessimistic person. You'll fail.
Even slightly negative thoughts have a greater impact on you and last longer than powerful positive thoughts.
Negative thinking doesn't do you any good, it just holds you back from accomplishing the things you want to do.
When a negative thought creeps into your mind, replace it reminding yourself that you're somebody, you have self-worth and you possess unique strengths and talents.
Contemplate what lies ahead of you. Losing weight is not just about diets. It's about a whole new you and the possibility of creating a new life for yourself.
Investigate the weight loss programs that appeal to you and that you feel will teach you the behavioral skills you need to stick with throughout the weight-loss process.
First you should look for support among family and friends. It can be an enormous help to discuss obstacles and share skills and tactics with others on the same path.
You might look for this support from others you know who are in weight loss programs and you can seek guidance from someone you know who has lost weight and kept it off.
There are success stories across the country today. On television and in newspapers, magazines and tabloids about people who have miraculously lost untold pounds and kept it off.
In all instances they say their mental attitude as well as their outlook on life has totally changed.
Diets and weight loss programs are more flexible now than they once were and there are many prepared foods already portioned out.
They are made attractive and can be prepared in a matter of minutes.
Low-fat and low-calorie foods are on shelves everywhere.
You will probably need to learn new, wiser eating skills. You will want a weight loss regimen that gives you some control, rather than imposing one rigid system.
Look for one that offers a variety of different eating plans, so you can choose the one that's best for you.
Keep in mind, too, that your weight loss program will most likely include some physical exercises.
Look at the exercising aspect of your program as fun and recreation and not as a form of grueling and sweaty work.
The fact is that physical fitness is linked inseparable to all personal effectiveness in every field.
Anyone willing to take the few simple steps that lie between them and fitness will shortly begin to feel better, and the improvement will reflect itself in every facet of their existence.
Doctors now say that walking is one of the best exercises. It helps the total circulation of blood throughout the body, and thus has a direct effect on your overall feeling of health.
There are things such as aerobics, jogging, swimming and many other exercises which will benefit a weight loss program.
Discuss the options with your doctor and take his advice in planning your exercise and weight loss program.
Warmly,
I-key Benney, CEO
Visit Maychic's website at: http://www.maychic.com
And also Maychic's Amazon.com Store at: http://www.maychic.com/amazonstore
Download free "TMT Power Secrets" Book-1 at: http://www.tmtworldwide.org

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Weight Loss: Secrets To Losing Weight Without Much Efforts

Simple Exercises To Lose Weight Fast!

2006-09-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

People looking to lose weight are always looking for new ways to exercise. It is widely known now that dieting alone wont always solve the problem. Healthy dieting and weight loss happens by replacing the wrong foods for the right ones, daily exercise, and extra help from an herbal weight loss supplement. Exercise can quickly become a healthy habit that will make you feel more active, feel less hungry, and eat less all by itself. While you should avoid strenuous exercise, and starvation diets, a healthy balance is what is needed to burn the fat off and keep your foot intake to a good level. Combine this with a healthy herbal weight loss pill like ProShapeRx and you will feel less hungry, and more focused on your weight loss goals. When most people think of losing weight, what comes to mind are expensive gym memberships and strenuous workouts. It does not have to be that way though, and as we will see, there are many no cost ways for you to add that exercise into your day. As long as you dont overdo it, you should have no trouble at all mixing simple activities like jumping rope, running around the park, situps, pushups, quat thrusts, and stair sprinting in your weight loss efforts. Let us take a look and see just how simple these exercises can be, and what a huge effect they can have on your ability to lose weight naturally. Jumping rope is something that anyone can do with a little time and effort. Any old rope will do, just hold each end with either hand and spin it around you as you hop along with it. Jumping rope makes the heart stronger and tunes up the cardiovascular system. It is what boxers do to keep their legs strong and looking great, and the shoulders also get a workout from keeping the rope moving. Jumping rope for 30 minutes straight is the equivalent to running a mile in 8 minutes, and you can burn 1,300 calories if you keep jumping for a full hour. You can jump rope in places like your home or in your backyard. If you think about it, those treadmills and steppers you get access to for that expensive gym membership really cant match what simple stair sprinting can do. Beginners or overweight people can start by running up and down four flights of stairs two times. If you cannot do two reps at first, then just do one. Do this every other day for two weeks. Endurance builds with time. Try working up to the two reps for the next two weeks. After two weeks have passed, try doing three reps. Do this until you can get to four reps. If you feel like you can do four flights of stairs four times, then do it. Doing a few floors of stair sprints can work out more muscles in your lower body, giving you perfect legs and ass. Carrying your own weight up those stairs instead of the flat surfaces you get at the gym makes your muscles work harder and helps you gain more endurance. Be careful with stair sprinting though, as it is easy to trip or sprain an ankle. Careful stair sprinting should be combined with other exercises too like situps, pushups, and squat thrusts. Everyone knows how to do situps and pushups, but squat thrusts will really help define and shape your legs, as well as the triceps. Situps and pushups are quick exercises to work the upper body while squat thrusts work the lower body. To do squat thrusts, you get into the pushup position with your body already pushed up off the floor. From this position you bend your knees and with both feet thrust forward underneath you and stop them near where your hands are, then thrust them back with the same quick powerful movement. Another way to perform squat thrusts is to start with bringing your right forward, in the runners position at the starting line. Then thrust both legs at the same time, one pushing back and the other leg pushing forward. This exercise works the glutes and hamstrings and quads, and is great for the lower body. Just be careful to keep the arms fixed to the floor, firmly keeping the body in the correct position. Repeat this exercise 15-20 times in your workout routine, and you will be showing off some great legs to anyone who cares to notice. Women find men who take care of their physical appearance very attractive. Defined muscles and shapely legs and thighs are a big turn on and you will notice the difference in the attention you get. I dont even have to tell you how men feel about good looking women who stay active and take care of themselves. Staying active with your workouts can grow into a habit that you can use to reach your weight loss goals fast. Switch junk food, soda, and chips for fruits and vegetables alongside a good herbal weight loss supplement and you will be seeing the results come even faster. Remember also to keep a close eye on the food intake. Dieting and herbal weight loss supplements can only lower your intake of fatty foods, and reduce the feeling of hunger. These techniques must be combined with exercise to burn off the extra fat. Losing weight is no big deal, anyone can do it, you just have to have the right formula to make it happen.Michael Johnson is a partner at Fat-Solution.com who has researched and tested the best herbal dietary supplements on the market. Learn weight loss tips and see consumer reviewed herbal dietary supplements at his website, http://www.Fat-Solution.com

The Thermogenic Fat Burner

2006-09-18T21:27:00.000-07:00

The Thermogenic Fat Burner

The term 'thermogenic' refers to a group of drugs or herbs, which have the ability to stimulate the central nervous system and thyroid gland. The idea behind thermogenics is to decrease the appetite with a thermogenic fat burner while increasing the fuel burning capacity of the body. The body heat and energy levels are raised and thermogenic capacities accelerate to burn up calories.

Due to the decreased appetite that a thermogenic brings about fewer calories will be consumed, resulting in a loss of body weight. The calories that are eaten while using a thermogenic will be utilized as energy and not stored as body fat. Many people who want to lose weight find using a thermogenic fat burner extremely effective and there are many thermogenic products available.
The development of the thermogenic fat burner marks a true milestone in the ongoing battle many individuals have with their weight. Being able to control the appetite with a thermogenic fat burner makes it easier to reach and maintain a goal weight.

The body metabolism is greatly affected by the thyroid gland and stimulation with a thermogenic product speeds up metabolic fat burning activity resulting in thermogenic weight loss. When a thermogenic product is taken before a physical workout it gives an extra boost of energy to the body allowing for increased activity. The compounds found in a thermogenic fat burner usually include stimulants such as caffeine and ephedrine. While ephedrine is the subject of much debate, opinion indicates that it is relatively safe when used as intended and for short periods of time.

Side effects are usually a result of thermogenic product misuse by individuals seeking large weight loss in the shortest possible time. After using a thermogenic fat burner for 4 weeks, it is advisable to take a short break so as not to compromise the adrenal system. Thermogenic studies also show that after 6 weeks of using a thermogenic product, the effectiveness may begin to slow down.

Weight loss from a thermogenic fat burner may seem to take a longer time. Taking a break from thermogenics will balance the system again, allowing further thermogenic usage to be effective when resumed. A rest of about 4-8 weeks is usually recommended in which time the system should be restored.

A thermogenic fat burner should always be used responsibly and as indicated. For best results, a thermogenic fat burner should form part of a complete healthy lifestyle plan. Under these conditions, a large thermogenic weight loss can occur and be maintained by the body.
A balanced diet and physical exercise should be adhered to in order to experience the full benefits of a thermogenic fat burner. Healthy weight loss should be the goal when using a thermogenic fat burner.

Forcing a sudden thermogenic weight loss by starving the body or taking too much thermogenic fat burner can lead to health problems. Be sure to eat several small meals during the day to prevent your metabolism from slowing down. Using a thermogenic responsibly would also include discussing it with your doctor if you have hypertension, thyroid, prostate or cardio respiratory problems.

The Thermogenic Fat Burner
Copyright 2005 Health-Focus

Weight Loss And Nutrition Myths! What You Need To Know!

2006-09-17T17:36:00.000-07:00

Weight Loss And Nutrition Myths! What You Need To Know!

MYTH: Fad diets work for permanent weight loss.

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

Fad diets may be unhealthy because they may not provide all of the nutrients your body needs. Also, losing weight at a very rapid rate (more than 3 pounds a week after the first couple weeks) may increase your risk for developing gallstones (clusters of solid material in the gallbladder that can be painful). Diets that provide less than 800 calories per day also could result in heart rhythm abnormalities, which can be fatal.

TIP: Research suggests that losing ½ to 2 pounds a week by making healthy food choices, eating moderate portions, and building physical activity into your daily life is the best way to lose weight and keep it off. By adopting healthy eating and physical activity habits, you may also lower your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

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

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

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

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

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MYTH: Starches are fattening and should be limited when trying to lose weight.

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FACT: Many foods high in starch, like bread, rice, pasta, cereals, beans, fruits, and some vegetables (like potatoes and yams) are low in fat and calories. They become high in fat and calories when eaten in large portion sizes or when covered with high-fat toppings like butter, sour cream, or mayonnaise. Foods high in starch (also called complex carbohydrates) are an important source of energy for your body.

TIP: The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating 6 to 11 servings a day, depending on your calorie needs, from the bread, cereal, rice, and pasta group-even when trying to lose weight. Pay attention to your serving sizes-one serving is equal to 1 slice of bread, 1 ounce of ready-to-eat cereal, or ½ cup of pasta, rice, or cooked cereal. Try to avoid high-fat toppings and choose whole grains, like whole wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal, and bran cereal. Choose other starchy foods that are high in dietary fiber too, like beans, peas, and vegetables.

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MYTH: Certain foods, like grapefruit & celery, can burn fat and make you lose weight.

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FACT: No foods can burn fat. Some foods with caffeine may speed up your metabolism (the way your body uses energy, or calories) for a short time, but they do not cause weight loss.

TIP: The best way to lose weight is to cut back on the number of calories you eat and be more physically active.

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MYTH: Natural or herbal weight-loss products are safe and effective.

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FACT: A weight-loss product that claims to be "natural" or "herbal" is not necessarily safe. These products are not usually scientifically tested to prove that they are safe or that they work. For example, herbal products containing ephedra (now banned by the U.S. Government) have caused serious health problems and even death. Newer products that claim to be ephedra-free are not necessarily danger-free, because they may contain ingredients similar to ephedra.

TIP: Talk with your health care provider before using any weight-loss product. Some natural or herbal weight-loss products can be harmful.

For free advice, tips and education about weight loss, fitness and dieting visit Weight Loss Information at http://www.effective-weight-loss.info

Weight Loss And Nutrition Myths! What You Need To Know!

I Lost The Weight So Why Am I So Miserable?

2006-09-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

I Lost the Weight So Why Am I So Miserable?

I was overweight at my age. It's not a pretty sight, but it's also not the center of my universe, either. As a woman in my 40's I don't worry about my weight. I eat whatever tickles my fancy because I can. Also when you're in your 40's you don't think about dating; you think about being alone for the rest of your life. I guess you think your dating antics are over, and you don't have to worry about how you look.

That scenario is for the birds in the 21st century. I know women in their 70's and 80 are who are getting married, so age is only just a number. Romance comes in all shapes, ages, and it just doesn't matter.

I have to admit that my doorbell wasn't ringing bells of joy with men trying to take me out; my telephone wasn't ringing off the hook either. I don't get a lot of looks like I used too when I was petite, and men certainly aren't whistling at me. It's not easy being invisible when you were still alive, and trying to survive in a world for the young people with the gorgeous petite bodies.
This was a state of depression for me so I ate. Some people smoked, starved themselves to death, drank, but I ate. Food became my best friend, and before I knew it I was appalled at the way I looked when I was naked. I wanted to shoot myself, but food was the ruination for me. I loved my food from ice cream to potato chips. Food was considered my companion.

I always had this fantasy that I'd find the man of my dreams, and he'd accept me just the way I am, an unconditional man. It took almost ten years of my life, but I met Larry. He had a gut and was big himself, so it didn't matter to him that I was overweight. He just wanted someone with meat on their bones, and I met all his qualifications.

Larry was funny, and he complimented me all the time. He was a man that was so proud of himself, he did everything he could to please me. Larry treated me like a queen.

Our relationship continued for two years, and then I broke up with Larry. He was 53 and settled in his ways. He caught the mice, so he didn't see the need to continue to impress me. He started to take me for granted, and I couldn't have any of that. I was very disappointed that I had to end our relationship, but girls got to do what a girl's got to do.

Of course my best friend was food so I had my man. I made sure that I drank water and walked on a daily basis, so I ate, but I didn't gain any unnecessary weight. Of course I didn't lose any either.

It was another year later and I was still overweight. I wasn't looking for a man because there wasn't a man out there who wanted an overweight woman, so I had to come to that sad realization. Men say they want women with meat on their bones, but that was just a line to get a booty call. Most of the time men were masters at lying, and they had it down to a science in an art form.

Anyway, I was taking a walk down my block in Oak Lawn, Illinois when I stopped to take a five minute break. I was determined to walk a few more blocks and then return home. "Are you okay?" the man asked.

I stared at the handsome man. "I'm fine. I was just taking a break."
"Me too," he replied. "I usually walk when the weather gets into a cooler normal mode."
The man was skinny, and he looked athletic to me. Why did he need any kind of exercise? He was black, tall, dark, and handsome. He looked to be in his late forties, but I was never knowledgeable on the age factor.

"My name is Ben," he replied. "I don't remember seeing you walking at this time of day."
It was the afternoon around three. "I don't either, but I was just in the mood to get my exercising going on and then some. Besides, I like walking because it gave me the time to think about the issues in my life, and find some healthy solutions for them. I think walking is the most beneficial exercise for losing weight."

"Walking is the best exercise and dancing," Ben said. "You look fine to me, but we all can't afford not to be healthy. How about going dancing with me? There's a stepping contest coming up and with the right partner, we could win one thousand dollars. I love stepping."
I stared at the man. "Are you inviting me out on a date?"

"I am," he incredibly replied. "Is something wrong with my manners?"
"No," I cried. "I was just surprised."
"Do you know how to step?" he asked.
"It's one of my favorite dance moves," I laughed. "I won a contest about two years ago."
"Then you and I will win again because I won last year."
"Then we have a date."
"We should set up some practice sessions. I want to become the stepper champion for this year."
We did have that concept in mind. "Me too!"
"Why don't we meet here, and then go to the park? I'm sure we can find a secluded area, and practice some of our dance moves."
"I'll be here at three," I smiled.
"It's a pleasure," he laughed. "I don't even know your name."
"It's Carolyn Rains."
"Again it's a pleasure."

Ben and I practiced for three weeks, and I was so out of shape I thought he was going to find another partner. Ben had a lot of energy at 48, and he wanted to keep going for hours. I knew the steps, and we might have the chance to win. I was going to get some rest because the competition was tomorrow and we had to win.

Of course we won first prize, and Ben was all over himself. We congratulated each other, divided up the money, and then went out to dinner. Ben told me he was eager to have a relationship with me, but I wasn't his type. He usually dated petite women. I was so offended by his words, but I really liked him. I decided at that moment to go on a diet. I was going to lose one hundred pounds.

Ben and I continued to chat on the phone. He wanted to go out, but I was determined to lose the weight before he saw me again. I was on a mission to be with this man. I never thought about his antics. Why should I lose the weight to be with him? If he didn't like me the way I was, then he needed to move on. There were millions of petite women in the Chicago area, so he'd be able to find his mate. What was wrong with me? Didn't I have any self-esteem about myself?
I was desperate for a man and it didn't matter about how I was feeling. I had this chemistry with Ben, and it felt good to be with him. I wanted to do everything in my power to date him.
After five weeks of practically starving myself, I lost fifty pounds and agreed to go out to dinner with Ben. He was eager to see me because we had been talking on the phone for hours on end.
He came to my house, and he almost fell out. I was wearing a mini dress, and my gorgeous legs were showing. Ben was all over me, and he couldn't believe how gorgeous I looked.

We went out that night, and then we went back to his place to make passionate love. The excitement Ben was giving me was worth losing the weight because my body was intimated by all the pleasure it was receiving. It had been a long time since my body saw this much passion and pleasure. Ben knew how to please a woman with his ravaging and raging lovemaking techniques. I was in a zone of heaven and loving every minute of it.

Ben and I continued to make love for another week, and I finally had a man I could call my boyfriend again. I was also skinny so men were knocking down my door, and trying to get my telephone number. This was definitely new to me.

I was a little worried today because I hadn't heard from Ben. He usually didn't go a day without calling me. Where was he? I didn't want to call him because I always believed the man was the one who did all the calling. I waited patiently and when it was ten, I knew something was going on.
I picked up my cell phone. It wouldn't hurt me to call him. I dialed his number and waited. I was nervous for some reason.
"Hello," the woman said.
I was stunned, and about to hang up, but something kept me from doing just that. "May I speak to Ben?" I calmly replied.
"Is this his sister, Carolyn? I'm Lacy his girlfriend. I can't wait to meet you. Ben is in the shower right now. Can he call you back?"
I was speechless for the moment, and then I became angry. "How long have you been dating my brother?"
"About two years now. We're getting married next month."
I thought I was going to faint from the excitement. "I see. I'll talk to him later." I quickly disconnected the call and then the tears blinded me into a rage of madness. Ben was about to get married. The man was playing me for a fool. I couldn't believe I had given myself to him. Men were dogs!
I thought Ben would call and apologize, but that wasn't happening. It was two weeks later, and men were banging their heads up against the wall to talk to me. I called a few, and went out, and they were all over me. I didn't like the way the brothers were attacking me. I wanted to get to know a man before I got into bed with him. I wasn't making that mistake ever again.
I thought about Ben every day hoping that he'd call, or ring my doorbell, but it wasn't happening. He was too busy planning his wedding. I was never going to stab myself in the heart with a man again.
I had the body now, but I was miserable as sin. I couldn't trust any man, and I wasn't just going to be a booty call for them. I was going into my three month rule I learned from watching an episode of GIRLFRIENDS. There would be no sex for me until after three months. If I had someone still in my life at that time, I knew the relationship might be moving into a serious direction.
I met ten men along the way, and when I informed them about my three month rule, they ran for the hills and didn't look back. Most of the time I spent my time working, and then watching cable alone. I never thought I'd be in this boat being a size 6 now. I was lonelier than ever. I had the look, but the men weren't going to change their stripes for another skinny woman. I was learning a valuable lesson. I had lost all this weight, but I was still a miserable human being.
I wanted to go to the supermarket and buy a gallon of chocolate ice cream, but I refused to defeat the purpose of losing the weight. Of course I didn't lose the weight for me, but Ben. I wanted to spend my entire life with him, but he was only playing games with me. I felt sorry for his fiancé because eventually she was going to find out that her man was a cheating dog.
Three months later I was walking down my block when I heard a car horn blow. I knew they were probably honking for me because my looks demanded attention when I took my walks now. It was summer time, and most of the time I wore shorts and a halter top. I was making up for lost time.
I followed the honking and then I stopped dead in my tracks. I knew the car. It was Larry. I walked over to his car. "Hi. How are you doing?"
"I saw you passing by, but I couldn't believe it. Where is all the weight, Carolyn?"
"All of my walking has paid off," I lied. I wasn't about to tell him the truth about losing weight for a man.
"I was going to the park. Why don't you join me?"
I didn't want too, but I was still feeling so lonely so it couldn't hurt. I got into Larry's Cadillac and smiled. He still looked the same with his gut, but he was also a good looking man. I was sorry we couldn't have the kind of relationship that we both wanted.
"I'm sure you have men all over you, but you attracted them when you were overweight too," Larry pointed out.
"That's in my past, and I do. I'm just enjoying being able to wear shorts and mini skirts."
"You could have worn them all along, Carolyn. I told you that you had gorgeous big legs, and men die for big legs on a woman. You always wore long skirts with me. Why?"
"Larry, you didn't appreciate me when we were dating, so let's not dwell in the past. I'm on another planet in my life, and it's time to relate to the future. I'm sure Madeline is in your life. She was a constant pain in our relationship. I wish the two of you sheer happiness."
"Madeline got married to her high school sweetheart last month. I went to the wedding, and it was great. Everyone asked about you. I have to admit, Carolyn that I miss you like crazy. I wanted to call you so many times, I lost count. I know you wouldn't give me the time of day with that gorgeous body of yours now, but I'm sorry. I'd give anything to have a second chance with you."
I couldn't believe his words. I was miserable being skinny, and no one would believe this plight of mine. I couldn't trust men now, and they just wanted to sleep with me. I wanted someone I could trust, and have a conversation with. Larry and I had that in common. "I don't know what to say."
"Just think about it," Larry said. "I made so many mistakes with you by taking you for granted. I caught you, so I didn't see the need to keep you. Everyone told me that I was a fool for letting you go, and I prayed about us. When I saw you walking, I knew God had just answered my prayers. I love you, Carolyn, and that will never change."
I stared at him, and he was telling the truth because I knew him like I knew myself, and he was being very honest and sincere with me. "I have this three month rule."

He laughed and I laughed with him. "That's fine with me because I'm going to live on Viagra to keep up with you. I'm also going to cook for you again, Carolyn. You're to skinny for me."
I hysterically laughed. You just couldn't win with a man. "Okay, Larry. Why don't you cook something for me now? I've been starving myself to death to keep this body, and I'm hungry as a cat with no food.

"It'd be my pleasure," Larry said.
I smiled at him.

You might find this difficult to believe, but I'm happy as a lark now. I gained some of my weight back, and I was now a size 16. I had no intention of going beyond this weight, and Larry and I were officially engaged. We'd be getting married at the end of the year in December. I always dreamed of a Christmas Eve wedding.

I guess I learned in this episode of my life that I had to be careful for what I wished for because I might just get it. I had the chance to be a size 6, and meet all the men in Chicago, and then some. I met, Ben remember, and he turned out to be a cad in wolf's clothing.

Being skinny isn't going to make a man respect you, and treat you like a woman should be treated. I have to respect myself first, and then the rest will come along with the program. I gained the weight back, and I was the most contented woman today. Not only did I learn a valuable lesson, but I got my man back too. My unconditional man and Larry were that and then some.

My name is Carol Ann Culbert Johnson. I am a grandmother of two gorgeous grandchildren, Alexis and Jordan. Please check out my debut book, I CONFESS at http://www.publishamerica.com. My second novel, EVERYTHING AND MORE, will be published in 2006.

I Lost The Weight So Why Am I So Miserable?

Rapid Weight Loss-Is It Healthy and Does It Work?

2006-08-24T22:44:00.000-07:00

Rapid Weight Loss - Is It Healthy and Does It Work?

It is important that the public not only understand the right ways to lose weight, but also equally understand the wrong ways!

There have been many FAST weight loss systems that have come and gone over years. The Cambridge Diet and Slim Fast are two that spring to mind. "LighterLife" is the latest meal replacement diet to tempt the public. This rapid weight loss programme is intended for those people who need to lose 3 stone or more. Why 3 stone or more you may ask? Well, one simple reason is that the programme FORCES the body to break down its own tissue at such a rate (they advertise a stone a month), that anyone without enough fat and tissue on the body, really wouldn't last long on the programme at all, and of course Lighter Life wouldn't earn as much money from them!

LighterLife is a very low calorie diet. Now, there are low calorie diets and there are LOW calorie diets this is one of those LOW varieties if you get my drift! It provides at best 450 calories per day I know because I have seen the nutritional breakdown of the sachets and food bars that are used in place of 3 standard meals per day.

Aside from the issues and pitfalls (both socially and psychologically) of living on 3 sachets of synthetic nutrient powder everyday, let me explain further what this does physically and chemically inside the body.

Fast, or rapid and extreme weight loss via hypocaloric (very low calorie) feeding happens because the body rapidly loses water (due to loss of glycogen and protein, both of which contain water), as the body quickly begins to break down muscle, and then fat. It is thought that around 25% of the weight lost on a very low-calorie diet (or low-carb diet) is actually lean muscle tissue.
"So what" you may thinking!

Well, the downside is that it damages metabolism. Long-term, the metabolic rate is driven DOWN to an all-time low, as the body thinks that it is being starved, which it is! FEWER calories are burned on a daily basis, as the body tries to conserve as much energy for "survival". When calorie intake is increased (which it has to be at some point), although this lifts the metabolism again, it doesn't increase it to the same levels as before. The body fails to burn the same amount of energy (calories) as it once did, and weight gain (in the form of fat) is faster than it was before. In order to avoid this happening at its very worst, calorie intake must be increased very gradually, and at the same time, physical activity (including resistance exercise to build back lean tissue) must be increased, and maintained. There are still many people desperate to lose weight that will not except that exercise and healthy "intelligent" eating is the key to long-term successful weight loss and weight maintenance.

Paradoxically, exercising while ON a very low calorie diet is NOT healthy in fact it is dangerous! This is because the body is already in an acidic state (due to the use of ketone bodies as fuel ? see below), and exercising without enough carbohydrate as a fuel increases levels of acidic by-products even more. This increases the risk of metabolic acidosis ? which can lead to coma and death! SO?. Those on the LighterLife programme should be advised NOT to exercise all the time they are on this starvation diet. Their bodies are too busy breaking down their own tissue to cope with much else!

We need at least 1000 kcals/day just to maintain our normal metabolic rate and most physiological functions ideally 1500 kcals to ensure we are meeting all our basic nutrient requirements. Existing on such few calories and forcing the body into starvation mode, means the body must begin to break down it's own tissue for fuel, and to provide the body with the necessary amino acids (i.e. protein) for many bodily functions. By the way, the heart is a muscle, so there is a danger of losing heart muscle too on such a low calorie regimen which is not something anyone would knowingly want to do especially if there is a risk of any form of heart disease in the family.

Being so low in energy (calories) is one reason that LighterLife (LL) works. But another reason for the speed of weight loss has to do with the fact that is very low in calories from carbohydrate (CHO). Remember carbs are our main source of energy. Restricting intake of carbohydrates forces the body to make and use "ketone bodies" as an energy source. Ketones are formed in the liver, mainly from fat, and transported to tissues, as well as the brain.

Blood levels of 2 main ketones (beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate) rise, along with the by-products acetone and acetol. You can smell acetone on the breathe of people on very low CHO diets, and it is not very pleasant! These by-products go on to make a substance called glycotoxin methylglyoxal, which consequently also rises in the body. It is THIS substance that can cause blood vessel and tissue damage something that has been shown in scientific studies. So those people on very low carb diets for a long time (and using ketones as energy) may well be at a far greater risk of vascular damage. This is something everyone should understand when they are considering these extreme forms of weight loss.

Now, not even the Atkins is quite as low in CHO as LL! Three LL sachets provide a mere 24g CHO a day. We need AT LEAST 140-150g carbohydrate to maintain our lean tissue and stop the body breaking down it's own tissue for energy. However, we need a lot more than this if we exercise or are active regularly. If you try and maintain an exercise programme, while eating a low carbohydrate diet, you'll find you won't get very far in terms of increased fitness and increased lean tissue. In fact you'll lose tissue as the body breaks down muscle to a) use as a potential fuel, and b) to repair the exercise-induced muscle damage. You'll only be able to sustain a certain intensity, as above a certain threshold the body can only "go up a gear" by making quick-fire energy from glycogen (carbohydrate) stores and of course if nothing is there ? you simply feel "flat", weak and unable to sustain the workload.

I'd like to move onto another important issue, which is never discussed with regard to these weight loss programmes.

The issue of calcium is something that I am concerned about. LL says it provides 900mg of calcium in 3 meal replacement sachets or bars. The first problem is the FORM of calcium used. Calcium carbonate is one of the cheaper forms of calcium, and many reputable supplement companies don't now use a lot of calcium carbonate at least if they do it is usually combined with a chelated form such as citrate to improve absorption. There are much more absorbable and better forms of calcium now available. We absorb about 40% calcium carbonate. Those with compromised gastrointestinal function, and especially low levels of hydrochloric acid may not even absorb that much.

The second problem or "flip-side" of the coin is that you can NEVER rely on supplementation alone to meet your daily nutrient requirements, and assume that the body will utilise these just as well as it would from food. Ironically 900mg calcium may be TOO much for the body to effectively utilise in this form, with little else to help its utilisation.

LighterLife provides NO FOOD but seems to think that's OK because the sachets give you all the nutrients you need!

NOT TRUE...

There is next to no fibre (see below) in a daily intake of LL food powder, and of course no phytonutrients and the array of antioxidants that we find in fresh food all of which have their own wonderful properties and health benefits many of which by the way are important for a healthy metabolism!

Calcium plays a vital role in dental health. Not only is it the main mineral constituent of teeth, it also plays a role in saliva, where it has been implicated in remineralising tooth structure after acid attack form plaque bacteria. Whether or not a lack of calcium over 6-12 months significantly effects gum and tooth health is not conclusive, but Dental Practitioner, Dr Rob Endicott had some other interesting things to say about LighterLife.

"I am not a fan of LighterLife and am interested in your comments about the problem of the calcium delivery methods in the product. The problem I have with LighterLife is the lack of chewing, allowing plaque and tarter to build up more readily, having a very direct effect on gum and tooth health, and we have seen this in practice". Mmmmm... now there's a thought!
By the way there is the small issue of fibre! There is less than half the necessary requirement for fibre in a "days nutrition" from Lighter Life. Basically bowel function shuts down after a while ? the brain doesn't get any signalling that the bowels are full! Toxins can't move out through the system so I imagine they are re-absorbed back into the bloodstream, and there is a lot more work for the kidneys to do to excrete waste from the blood. Of course the bowels don't get a good daily clean either, which is one of the major roles of fibre in the diet!

I shall leave you all with this final comment...
"IT IS FAR SAFER, AND IN THE LONG RUN, MORE EFFECTIVE TO LOSE WEIGHT AT A SLOWER RATE WITH ENOUGH CALORIES, FIBRE, NUTRIENTS, AND CARBOHYDRATE TO PRESERVE HEALTH, AND MUSCLE TISSUE. GLUCOSE IS OUR PRIMARY FUEL, FOR THE MUSCLES AND BRAIN, NOT KETONES. THE ACIDIC STATE OF KETOSIS IS NOT HEALTHY TO PRESERVE BONE HEALTH".

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Rapid Weight Loss-Is It Healthy and Does It Work?

Weight Loss

2006-08-19T18:34:00.000-07:00

Weight Loss

Lose Weight Naturally and Safely - Fighting Obesity with Natural Weight Loss by Victor Lensora

Due to the huge health hazards associated with obesity, it is important for those who are overweight to try and lose weight, and get back into shape. Arguably more importantly is that when doing this, they do it in a safe manner. Through this article, I will try and guide you in ideas and methods to lose weight safely!

Okay, to lose weight, calories used per day by the body needs to be greater than calories consumed per day. Below is a variety of ways to help you on your way!

* Firstly, during your everyday life, you can take lots of small easy steps to help burn some extra calories. Rather than taking the lift/elevator/escalator, take the stairs, although this is minor, through the week, it all adds up. This is probably the easiest of all methods to implement into your day to day life. This method itself is unlikely to help you shed lots of pounds, but in conjunction with other small ideas for example get off at a bus stop ahead of your desired destination, and walk the final leg of your journey, or even better, cycle the whole of your journey while following a few of the tips on eating below, and you should find yourself losing weight in no time.

* This is obvious, but you should try to cut down on fatty foods, fast food is a huge culprit for clogging up your arteries with cholesterol and piling on the pounds. For example, there are several fast food meals that contain over a whopping 1000 calories, to put this into perspective, women should eat 2000 calories a day, and men 2,500! So that's nearly half of your daily calorie allowance in one meal that is not even likely to sustain your hunger for more than a couple of hours and so should be avoided. Also when shopping, when buying low-fat products, you should be careful to look at the nutritional information, quite commonly the food manufacturers replace the fat with sugar. Excess sugar that is not needed by the body is converted into glycogen and is stored as fat.

* Avoid fizzy drinks e.g. coca cola, these drinks are packed with sugar and as a result contain loads of calories, replace these with healthier drinks such as water and you'll find yourself cutting back on lots of calories, as well as saving your teeth and some extra cash.

* Try and do at least 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days of the week, this could just be a walk round the local park, football in the garden with friends, or a gentle game of tennis. The goal for losing weight is to use more calories than you consume, this exercise will help you on your way.

* Around 50-60% of your daily calories are recommended to come from carbohydrates. Try to make as many of these from foods that are high in complex starchy carbohydrates, opposed to sugary carbohydrates.

* Be sure to watch you portion size, often portion sizes are much smaller than you'd expect, if you are counting calories, be sure to only eat the portion size that it recommends, otherwise take into account the extra calories that will be consumed by the large serving.

* When you feel you need a snack, rather than reaching for a snickers or a couple of biscuits, replace these high calorie snacks with some fruit. Not only will you eat fewer calories, but you will also consume vitamins and minerals which the body requires.

* Personally, I do not recommend diet pills; this is due to negative side affects that some will produce. Furthermore there is no guarantee that you will lose a noticeable amount of weight, and there is a good chance that you will just put it straight back on.

Implement a number of the above points, and you should start to burn more calories and consume less, and in turn, lose weight! Remember the golden rule that is, to lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume! A happier and healthier life awaits you.

About the Author
Victor Lensora - Owner of the Awesome Health Website http://health-fitness4life.blogspot.com. Along with the brand new blog http://easy-natural-weight-loss.blogspot.com helping you with loads of tips to lose weight without endangering your health!

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Weight Loss