"Why You Should Use A Treadmill... Or Run Outside"
"Can't find what you are looking for? Try Google Search" Calorie Feature Article "Why You Should Use A Treadmill... Or Run Outside"Author: Paul Johnson There's a distinct difference between running outside andon treadmill, and they both have their positives andnegatives. The top notch benefit of using a treadmill isthat you will never have to contend with the elements ofbeing outside, which depending on where you are in worldcan get bitterly cold or sizzling hot. There's a cushioned surface on the treadmill that willlessen the impact of running, which can reduce the numberof shin splints that occur from outside running. There aremotivational factors that make a treadmill a very appealingform of exercising where you have the power to manuallyadjust your terrain with different speeds, all controlledby you and your fingertips. Depending on where you are, it may be extremely difficultto find such terrain differences to ensure that you have adiverse running path, something that a treadmill can offerat all times.The downside to the treadmill if there is one is that itconfines you the size of the treadmill, which in turn willlimit the amount of capable movement you can perform. Running, jogging, or walking outside can maximize theamount your muscles are impacted through the movement inyour body caused by the terrain and this has been known tocause more calories to be burned as a result. So theability to limit your body's natural running movement isthe only drawback to using a treadmill. If you do use a treadmill, it is highly advised not to useit more than 30-45 minutes per session as your body will bemaxed out at that point. If you do not feel that your body is getting enough out ofit, then you are encouraged to begin some type of intervaltraining on the machine, which will vary your length andterrain as you see fit. It is also recommended that youshould use some form of weight training with cardioexercises to reap total benefit.If you are looking to burn some calories a treadmill, orany cardio machine for that matter, will give you themaximize desired benefits. It is not about how long youuse this machine but the variance of your workout that willdetermine the effectiveness of what you are doing that willshow you how great the treadmill is.===========================================================Find out why treadmills can burn fat more efficiently thanalmost any other exercise. See reviews and usefulinformation. Click==> http://www.treadmills-easy.com/ About the Author Paul Johnson works tech support for New York basedInternet Publishing company, DigiLectual Inc. He's lost alot of weight with a fitness regime that includesTreadmills. He shares his knowledge and research ontreadmills in a series of articles.... Low Calorie Food RecipeFood Calorie CountCalorie Counter Guide
Decaf may not be as De as you think
Filed under: Diet, Daily news
Let's face it, Americans are addicted to caffeine. We love our coffee, just as much as our neighbors across the 
pond love their tea. So, I suppose it's safe to say that the British are addicted to caffeine, as well. And then if you consider how popular coca cola is in so many other countries around the world, there's clearly an argument to be made that the people living in these countries are also addicted to caffeine. And though the verdict is still out on whether or not caffeine is truly good for you or not (I've personally come across evidence suggesting both), this legal, mood altering substance clearly remains part of a shared world culture.
But, what happens when you stop consuming caffeine? Some people complain of experiencing headaches, while others also complain of feeling sluggish and tired. Others still claim that it has a slowing effect on their heart rate. Soon enough, however, those feelings typically go away. At or around this point, some people opt against drinking caffeinated beverages altogether, especially coffee. But, others who enjoy the 'ritual' of drinking coffee, or perhaps even the taste, will go unleaded. That is, they will begin drinking decaffeinated coffee. However, what most people do not realize is that many so-called decaf coffees still contain some caffeine. As a matter of fact, some contain quite a bit -- to the point that drinking five cups of decaf could equal drinking a cup of regular coffee. The biggest culprits of the decaf myth are the franchises; with Krispy Kreme, Starbucks, McDonald's and Dunkin Donuts all having at least 10g of caffeine in their 16oz serving of decaf coffee.
So, if you really want to stay 'on the wagon' and not consume ANY caffeine, you can either stick to Folgers Instant, which truly does not contain any caffeine, or maybe empty that kettle into a glass of ice. Last I checked, water is still caffeine free.
Regular napping may reduce risk of heart disease
I feel like garbage right now. My nose is running, my throat is sore, and a general malaise has taken control of my body like it has a point to prove. Cold season is here, and I have officially fallen victim. The remedy? Who knows, really. Chicken soup, echinacea, vitamin C, rest. Wait, what was that last one? Rest. Yes, now that one, that one seems to actually work. Well, it turns out that getting adequate rest, particularly taking regular naps, can do far more than just expedite the duration of your cold. In fact, researchers from Greece have found that taking a regular "siesta" may help markedly reduce one's chances of developing cardiovascular disease.
In a six-year study of over 24,000 Greek adults, researchers from the University of Athens Medical School found that those who took regular, mid-day naps lowered their chances of heart disease by more than a third. Unlike previous studies on the benefits of napping, this study was the first to control for outside variables (i.e. smoking, diet, exercise). All subjects studied entered into the research process with a clean bill of health, thereby ruling out the chances that their development -- of lack of development -- of heart disease was or was not caused to factors outside of napping.
The researchers believe that by taking regular naps, adults are able to reduce much of their workday stress. This belief is supported by the supplementary discovery that employed men seem to benefit more from naps than do unemployed men -- suggesting a link between workplace stress and sleep-induced stress reduction.
Whatever. I feel like crap. I'm going back to bed. Let the healing begin.
Exercise of the Week: The Lunge
Filed under: Exercise
It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another installment of The Exercise of the Week here at TheCardioBlog. All
previous Exercise posts can be found in the archives of the site, so feel free to do some digging if you're just tuning in now. But, before you begin your search for older posts, maybe you can first join in with us this week as we examine the Lunge, a fantastic lower-body exercise that will help tighten and tone your legs, calves and butt.
The Lunge involves balance and a little bit of coordination; so in exercise terms, that means that you'll also be using your stabilizing or core muscles, as well. The primary muscles you'll hit are your hamstrings, glutes, calves and quadriceps -- basically, your leg muscles. To perform the Lunge, start by thinking of the movement itself as nothing more than a large, deep step. By conceptualizing such a movement, you're actually already halfway there. Now, to actually do it, start off with your feet together. Keep your hands on your hips, akimbo in stance. Next, take a long, step forward with one leg, landing your foot securely on the floor. Then, you want to lower your body in a squatting motion, bringing your back leg forward to meet the front leg as you do. By the end of this motion, you should be standing completely erect again, and with both feet again side-by-side. Continue by then leading with the opposite foot, with the motion recapitulating from there.
There are several variations to the Lunge, but beginners may want to stick to what's known as the Walking Lunge (which is the version described above). As you progress, you can carry small weights in your hands, making the movement more difficult by adding additional resistance. From there, you can later move on to Reverse Lunges, the Lunge Press (which involves pressing weights over your head as you reach the extended portion of your Lunge), Side Lunges, and several other variations. The best part about the Lunge -- particularly the Walking Lunge -- is that the exercise is aerobic, so you will benefit your heart, as well as your leg muscles.
P.S. Here's a good video to demonstrate the Lunge.
Note: The content presented in this post is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or fitness professional before starting a physical fitness program.
6 Simple Steps To LifeLong Weight Loss
"Can't find what you are looking for? Try Google Search" Low Calorie Feature Article 6 Simple Steps To LifeLong Weight LossAuthor: Dianne Villano If You are sick of losing the same weight over and over, and feeling like a failure because your last "diet" didn't work, try these tips to not only lose weight, but lose it for good. I have watched hundreds of clients over the years and almost without exception, those that lose their weight once and for all have these six basic habits as a part of their lives. 1. Keep a food diary For at least five days and up to a week, keep a pen and paper handy and write down everything you eat, how much, where and when you ate it and who you ate with. try to write it down as you eat it. Most people find that when they try to remember everything at the end of the day, they leave something out. I have also had clients tell me that they didn't eat something because they knew they were going to have to write it down. Be completely honest with yourself. You don?t need to show anyone the results, but most will be very surprised by them. Particular environments and people can often trigger certain eating behaviors that are redily apparent when you use a food log. free fitness journal/food log. 2. Don?t eat too little Very low calorie diets will, in the short term, help you lose weight but they?re extremely difficult to maintain. You?ll gradually become tired and irritable, lack the energy to exercise, and people won?t want to eat with you because the long list of ?taboo? foods renders restaurant menus, and even family meals at home, unsuitable for your overly strict diet. For a more detailed description of the effects of low calorie diets click here. 3. Neither feast nor fast - They weren't kidding when they said "breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Studies show that those who skip the first meal, end up eating more total calories throughout the day and tend to make less healthy choices. Try to eat at least 3 meals a day. Optimally you should spread your calories throughout 6 small meals per day. This will keep your metabolism bustling and yuor blood sugar level even to help avoid binging. 4. Freshness Counts - The packaging and processing generally found in "convenience" foods generally reduce the nutrient values of foods and substantially raise the caloric content. The American Dietetic Association recommends at least 3 - 5 servings from the fruit and vegetable group per day. no time to prepare "home made meals? Try preparing in bulk on the week ends to make healthy choices readily available. Cut up a large bowl of fresh fruit, (1c = 1 serving) or pre make a large bowl of salad or cut up veggies. I usually prepare a weeks worth of chicken or pork so i can quickly re heat it and add it to any recipe. 5. Hydrate your way to quicker weight loss Drink water ahead of coffee, tea, or soft drinks. Including the ?hidden? water we consume in food, we need 64 oz. per day. More is recommended to counteract the dehydration caused by caffeinated beverages and intense exercise or excessive heat. How much do we need to drink? In general you should be drinking enough water per day so that your urine is nearly clear. 6. Eat less, exercise more The great thing about food diaries is they show you much where you can cut the number of "extra" (calories). Many people eat out of habit when they are not even hungry. you may also need to make dietary changes if you begin or increase the intensity of a fitness program. I know, you are going to say, "I don't have time because ...(insert your favorite excuse here) Ask yourself this..."how much more energy will I have when I am not carrying around this extra _____ pounds? How many more things will I enjoy and feel god while doing when I am in a fit healthy body? Is it worth a few minutes a day to incorporate these simple habits into your day? About The Author Article by Dianne Villano. Dianne is a personal fitness instructor certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine with over 17 years experience. Dianne specializes in weight loss programs and programs for beginners. For more articles or free fitness tools visit www.custombodiestampabay.com... Free Fast Food Calorie CounterLow Calorie Fat Free RecipeLow Calorie Apple Crisp Recipe
Exercise of the Week: the Bench Press
Filed under: Exercise, Exercise of the Week
If there's any one exercise that everyone seems to use as a show of pure strength and power, it is certainly the 
bench press. "How much ya' bench?" is a popular question thrown around weight rooms, and the answers are almost always inflated so as to match the ego of the responder. But, throwing around as much weight as possible may not exactly be the best way to see and feel results from this exercise. That's why I am highlighting the proper form, execution and target muscles of this gym workout staple.
The bench press targets the development of the pectoral muscles (aka the chest muscles), but also calls upon help from your triceps (located on the back of your arms) and deltoids (aka shoulders). To properly do this exercise, you first have to lie flat on your back on a bench (or sturdy alternative -- remember my makeshift bench idea with milk crates and a long, thick plank of wood?). You will then place an equidistant grip on the bar with your hands, lifting it off the support rack. Once you have the bar securely above your sternum and with your arms fully extended, you can now begin. Slowly lower the bar until it touches the chest or stops only an inch from the chest (this is up to you), but be sure to not let the weight "bounce" off of you. Once you've reached the bottom of the movement, hold for one second and then press the weight back up to the starting position. Tip: when you raise the bar, be sure to exhale the air you took in while you were lowering it. Also, when you press the weight upward, try to avoid completely locking your elbows to full extension. This will ensure that there is constant pressure and also help avoid elbow injury). Continue this motion for the desired number of repetitions and sets.
There are several variations to the bench press, including the incline bench press, the decline bench press, the dumbell bench press, etc. Also, you can try mixing up the amount of reps you do from one set to the other, or even the amount of weight you place on the bar. Bear in mind that if your goal is size and strength, fewer reps/longer rest in between sets/fewer sets/heavier weight is the combination you want to go with. If muscle tone and a bit of cardiovascular effect are your desired results, I would stick with a combination of more reps/shorter rest in between sets/more sets/lighter weight.
For a good video demonstration of the bench press, click HERE.
Note: The content presented in this post is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or fitness professional before starting a physical fitness program.
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | CommentsExercise of the Week: the Bench Press
Filed under: Type 1, Type 2, Exercise
If there's any one exercise that everyone seems to use as a show of pure strength and power, it is certainly the 
bench press. "How much ya' bench?" is a popular question thrown around weight rooms, and the answers are almost always inflated so as to match the ego of the responder. But, throwing around as much weight as possible may not exactly be the best way to see and feel results from this exercise. That's why I am highlighting the proper form, execution and target muscles of this gym workout staple.
The bench press targets the development of the pectoral muscles (aka the chest muscles), but also calls upon help from your triceps (located on the back of your arms) and deltoids (aka shoulders). To properly do this exercise, you first have to lie flat on your back on a bench (or sturdy alternative -- remember my makeshift bench idea with milk crates and a long, thick plank of wood?). You will then place an equidistant grip on the bar with your hands, lifting it off the support rack. Once you have the bar securely above your sternum and with your arms fully extended, you can now begin. Slowly lower the bar until it touches the chest or stops only an inch from the chest (this is up to you), but be sure to not let the weight "bounce" off of you. Once you've reached the bottom of the movement, hold for one second and then press the weight back up to the starting position. Tip: when you raise the bar, be sure to exhale the air you took in while you were lowering it. Also, when you press the weight upward, try to avoid completely locking your elbows to full extension. This will ensure that there is constant pressure and also help avoid elbow injury). Continue this motion for the desired number of repetitions and sets.
There are several variations to the bench press, including the incline bench press, the decline bench press, the dumbell bench press, etc. Also, you can try mixing up the amount of reps you do from one set to the other, or even the amount of weight you place on the bar. Bear in mind that if your goal is size and strength, fewer reps/longer rest in between sets/fewer sets/heavier weight is the combination you want to go with. If muscle tone and a bit of cardiovascular effect are your desired results, I would stick with a combination of more reps/shorter rest in between sets/more sets/lighter weight.
For a good video demonstration of the bench press, click HERE.
Note: The content presented in this post is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or fitness professional before starting a physical fitness program.
Edmonton Protocol on Hold
Filed under: Type 1, Childhood, Drugs, Research, Daily News, Events
The Edmonton Protocol has been temporarily put on hold due to fears the human form of mad cow disease might infect patients.
The source of an enzyme used in transplants was reported to derive from cow brains. Transplants of these treated islets have been put on hold until a source for this enzyme can be found that doesn't use cow brains. Dr. James Shapiro, the surgeon who developed the Edmontol Protocol said, "we just decided to put the program on hold". Shapiro and his team transplant healthy islet cells into the pancreas of people with Type 1 diabetes. The healthy cells allow recipients to again begin producing insulin crucial to the body's ability to regulate sugar digestion.
The National Institutes of Health was creating a similar program in the United States when it discovered that one of the biomedical compounds that Shapiro's team has been using depends on cow brains. Roche Applied Sciences was selling the team an enzyme that allows doctors to extract healthy islet cells. But Roche was buying the bacteria that secretes the enzyme from a third company, which grew the bacteria using fat from cow brains. Roche spokeswoman Michele Beaubien said from Montreal that the enzyme is sold for research purposes only.
The more I learn these days about medicine and how it is applied to diabetes - the more I feel as though everything is for research purposes only. Don't you? As Yogi Berra said, "it ain't over till it's over". A big thanks to Dave of No Sugar Tonight for bringing this story to my attention.
Early prevention of Type 1 diabetes human trials
Filed under: Type 1, Childhood, Drugs, Research
ImmunoMod has received an FDA Orphan Drug Grant award to pursue human trials focused on preventing the onset of Type 1 Diabetes by protecting beta cell function in early-stage diabetic youth.
When diabetes is first diagnosed, a short window of time known as "the honeymoon stage" exists to preserve the body's ability to create insulin. During this critical stage an individual has the best chance to protect the beta cells and stop the onset of the disease. Studies have shown that regeneration of damaged cells can occur if beta cells can be preserved. The problem to date has been the inability to prolong the preservation of these beta cells.
While some treatments have decelerated beta cell destruction, their effects have been temporary, caused toxic effects and required continuous treatment. ImmunoMod appears to effectively and safely protect beta cells for prolonged periods of time. The goal is to retard or reverse the destruction of these cells during the honeymoon phase, when cells first begin to lose function, which typically lasts about six months. I wonder if it's possible to reintroduce the honeymoon stage for Type 1 diabetics who have already been diabetic for decades?
High Blood Sugar Increases Cancer Risk
Filed under: Type 2, Adult Onset, Lifestyle, Research
A Swedish study has found that elevated blood sugar in women is linked with increased risk of developing cancer.Researchers identified 2,478 incident cases of cancer from records of 33,293 women and 31,304 men who participated in the study. Participants were recruited in the mid-1980s at age 40, 50 and 60 and the study covered a 13-year period. The records included levels of glucose in the blood when fasting and after receiving an infusion of glucose. Researchers calculated the cancer risk relative to blood glucose while adjusting for: age, year of enrollment, fasting time and smoking status. Women with blood sugar levels higher than normal have a total higher risk for cancer while for men the risk was unchanged at higher blood sugar levels. The overall risk of developing cancer for women in the top 25% of fasting blood glucose levels was 26% higher than those in the bottom 25%. Women with high fasting glucose levels had a higher risk of pancreatic, breast and endometrial cancers, while the increase in risk for malignant melanoma was two times higher.
While previous studies have shown that cancer risk for some cancers is higher for people with type 2 diabetes, this study suggests that something could be happening to trigger cancer much earlier, as glucose levels begin to rise. The scientists also found that the blood sugar levels gradually rose over the period of the study, which they suggest means that cancer risks would also continue to rise unless glucose levels were brought down by some means. The results were no different when they took Body Mass Index (BMI) into account.
The study provides further evidence for an association between abnormal glucose metabolism and cancer. If you ask me - I think this has to do with the pH levels of the blood. It is well known that cancer manifests in blood levels of higher acidity. Poor diabetic control can result in higher acid levels in the blood. The catch 22 is poor diabetic control leaves your entire blood chemistry off kilter and it cannot defend any rogue cells - especially those associated with malignant growth (i.e. cancer!)