Detoxification or detox is a popular buzzword in the world of health and fitness. You probably have seen a lot of people popping pills and gulping colourful drinks in the name of detoxification. But in reality, our body does not need all these things to detoxify itself. As per dietitian Lavleen Kaur, detoxification is a natural process that is carried out by our internal organs like kidneys and liver throughout the day. "Our body is designed in a way that it can eliminate the toxins from the system naturally with the help of internal organs. There is no need to follow any special diet for this," she said. She added that detoxification is a natural process that cannot be initiated or stopped. All we can do is support the internal system to carry out the process more efficiently and smoothly. She listed down some important habits that can prove to be beneficial to detox the internal system. Set your eating window Lavleen suggests that when you eat your food is as important as what you eat. Limiting your food for a certain interval of time can help you detox your body. "The interval of fasting may vary from person to person. But remember in the name of detoxification it is not good to starve yourself," she added.

Consume raw and fermented food Add nutrient and fibre-rich foods in your diet. This can ease the process of digestion in the body and can support the process of detoxification. Even fermented food items like curd, idli, dhokla, kefir and pickle must be a part of your diet. Fermented food helps in the formation of good bacteria, which improves gut health and eventually improves your overall health.

Cautious with fat-soluble vitamins The dietitian also advises being careful while consuming fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, D, E and K. "Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body for a long time. They can pose a greater risk of toxicity when consumed in excess," she asserted. Having a well-balanced diet does not lead to toxicity, but including supplements can be harmful.

Focus on a plant-based diet Lavleen supports a plant-based diet as it is better for the gut and organ when trying to detoxify. Non-vegetarian diet has the most toxins. So, it is important to limit the intake of animal-based foods. Have a well-balanced diet that contains both animal and plant-based foods.

Avoid processed food Refined and processed foods only contain calories and zero nutrients. The high-calorie foods increase the chances of diseases like obesity, diabetes and heart problems. Lavleen advises excluding these food items from your diet for better health and body activity.

Stay hydrated Water is essential to support healthy body function. Drinking an adequate amount of water every day is paramount for health. The dietitian recommends drinking cumin and carom seeds water to detoxify.

Read more:
Dietitian reveals how to naturally detox your body - Times of India

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Luxor Nursing and Rehab at Sayville on the CICO Diet and if It Can Work for You

You're probably aware of the dizzying amount of diets available, and perhaps you have tried one or more of themto varying degrees of success.

If you're looking for a simple one to follow, consider the CICO diet, which stands for the calories-in, calories-out method.

Luxor Nursing and Rehab at Sayville discusses the theory behind it and how you can succeed at it.

A Diet That's Based on Math

If you're a person who likes numbers, the CICO diet may be for you. At its root, all diets come down to eating better (or less) and exercising regularly. This diet breaks down those habits into pure numbers.

The numbers suggest that a pound of body weight is equivalent to 3,500 calories per week. Thus, if you want to lose a pound per week, you'll need to consume 3,500 fewer calories per weekor 500 calories per day.

Calculate Your Calorie Intake and Output

For this, an app like LoseIt or MyFitnessPal will help greatly because it does the math for youjust input everything you eat (meals and snacks) and record your exercise (distance walked and the amount of time it took, for example). Do the first week as a baseline week under your normal habits. You'll then, through a combination of diet and exercise, want to get to 500 fewer calories than your baseline number for the following week. Assuming you lose a pound per week, if you find the diet sustainable, you're on your way to a successful weight loss plan!

All Calories Aren't Created Equal

You'll want to watch for high-calorie foods like avocados and nuts, and also be aware that 300 calories from an avocado are better than the 240 calories you would eat from a candy bar. This doesn't mean the candy bar is healthier than an avocado! Be wise and use common sense with your meal and snacking choices; an occasional splurge is okay, but keep it sporadic.

To learn more about Luxor Nursing and Rehab at Sayville and all of the services they offer, visit http://www.sayvilleluxor.com/.

Read more from the original source:
Luxor Sayville on the CICO Diet and if It Can Work for You - Long Island, NY Patch - Patch.com

Visceral fat, or belly fat, is stored deep inside your body. It surrounds and protects your internal organs. You cant see visceral fat, as its underneath your abdominal muscles. Besides the fact that visceral fat doesnt look great, carrying too much visceral fat is linked to a higher risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers. By increasing the amount of aerobic exercise, you do, however, you could get rid of your visceral fat.

Aerobic exercise is the kind of activity which burns fat everywhere, particularly though, in the belly.

Health experts agree that anything which raises the heart rate and makes a person work up a sweat will help reduce visceral fat.

Regular aerobic exercise is one of the best ways to shed your visceral fat and burn belly fat.

Commonly known as cardio, it burns a lot of calories and helps to lose belly fat.

READ MORE:How to get rid of visceral fat - foods to help burn the belly fat

In astudywith the National Library of Medicine, a review of the effect of aerobic vs resistance exercise on visceral fat was investigated.

The study noted: Exercise therapy is an integralcomponent of obesity management, but the most potent exercise prescription for visceral fat benefit is unclear.

We aimed to evaluate the independent and synergistic effects of aerobic exercise and progressive resistance training and to directly compare the efficacy of aerobic and resistance training for beneficial visceral fat modulation.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to assess the efficacy of exercise interventions on visceral fat content/volume in overweight and obese adults.

The study found that aerobic exercise is central for exercise programmes aimed at reducing visceral fat, and that aerobic exercise below current recommendations for overweight/obesity management may be sufficient for beneficial visceral fat modification.

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Physiologist Cris Slentz, Ph.D. said: Numerous studies have sought to identify the most effective form of exercise to get rid of that unhealthy fat.

If you want to lose belly fat, aerobic exercise is the better choice because it burns more calories."

One study revealed aerobic exercise burned 67 percent more calories than resistance training.

What really counts is how much exercise you do, how many miles you walk and how many calories you burn," Slentz said.

If you choose to work at a lower aerobic intensity, it will simply take longer to burn the same amount of unhealthy fat."

Dr Louise Wiseman said: We think about 90 per cent of our fat is subcutaneous and the remaining 10 per cent is visceral or inside the abdomen.

It stands to reason if you are carrying excess fat it is likely you are carrying excess visceral fat.

Having belly fat does not always mean there is a large amount of visceral fat as this can still be subcutaneous, but a larger waist can indicate deep fat beneath.

The only way to definitively diagnose the amount of visceral fat someone carries is by aCT or MRI scan which is just not feasible.

A simple tape measure may be the best guide to use at home.

The rest is here:
How to get rid of visceral fat: Including a certain exercise in your day may burn the fat - Express

Both animal-based and plant-based foods contain protein, and protein powder is just a broken-down version of that. These are the three most common forms:

A 2017 study found that supplementing with whey protein hydrolysates reduced exercise-induced muscle damage symptoms and improved recovery of muscle function. This could help enhance muscle growth after exercise.

Whey isolate and concentrate are both high quality proteins and will produce similar effects. A 2016 research review found that people who took whey protein containing both isolate and concentrate improved their lean muscle mass and strength. You may want to opt for isolate rather than concentrate if youre aiming to limit carbs and fats.

Many protein powders contain a blend of the different forms.

Depending on your goals, one type of protein powder might be better for you than another. What do you definitely need from your protein? Are you looking to build muscle, to lose weight, or just to consume more protein?

Also consider your specific dietary needs. If you have a milk allergy, you obviously need a dairy- and lactose-free option. If youre vegan, plant-based is the only way to go.

To pick the best protein powders, we looked at the following criteria:

You just cant look past these flavor options! What tastes better than that last gulp of milk from the bottom of your cereal bowl?! Many reviewers mention that it satisfies sweet cravings without all the sugar.

A bonus for those with a soy allergy is that this brand uses sunflower protein. All flavors are soy- and gluten-free (except blueberry toaster pastry, because it has actual toaster pastry inside ).

Considerations: Theres one downside that may or may not impact you the product contains artificial sweeteners, specifically sucralose. Even though its an FDA-approved non-nutritive sweetener, some people who are more sensitive to artificial sweeteners could experience gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume too much.

Price: $$$

Buy Ghost Whey online.

This gold standard meets our standards as the best whey protein powder. With more than 30 flavors to choose from, youre bound to find the protein of your dreams. Plus, it contains BCAAs, which have been shown to reduce exercise fatigue and muscle soreness.

Considerations: This protein powder wont be a good fit if youre allergic to milk or soy, since it contains both.

Price: $$ (for 2 pounds) or $$$ (for 5 pounds)

Buy Gold Standard 100% Whey online.

Casein is the other type of protein found in milk, next to whey. Its slower-digesting than whey, taking 6 to 8 hours to completely break down. That allows a slow release of essential amino acids, which can help you recover while you sleep! The addition of essential amino acids is also important since your body cant produce them.

This specific casein protein powder makes the list because it has no artificial ingredients or flavors and is gluten-, soy-, and hormone-free. Plus, this powder has BCAAs and is Informed Sport Certified (third-party tested to ensure the absence of banned substances).

Considerations: One downside is that this powder comes in only three flavors, but theyre all classics!

Price: $$$

Buy Ascent Native Fuel Micellar Casein online.

This plant-based protein is made from the highest-quality European peas. Its also naturally sweetened with a plant called the Katemfe fruit (aka African serendipity berry). It contains a fruit protein called Thaumatin, which gives it a sweet flavor without creating a spike in blood sugar.

Reviewers rave about the limited non-GMO ingredients and say its easier to digest than other whey proteins. Nuzest Clean Lean Protein naturally contains all nine essential amino acids, is a good source of iron, and is allergen-free.

Considerations: Keep your wallet open and ready for this protein powder. The cost is on the higher end, and the larger serving size means youll go through a lot, depending on how much protein powder you use.

Price: $$$

Buy Nuzest Clean Lean Protein online.

In addition to being vegan, gluten-free, and available in many flavors, this powder contains greens! To bump up the amounts of iron and vitamin K you get in, it has ingredients like spinach, kale, and broccoli powder. These additions make it stand out from many other protein powders while still providing great flavors.

Considerations: Because of that added vitamin K, people who are on blood thinning medication (such as warfarin, aka Coumadin) need to be careful. According to the Cleveland Clinic, vitamin K intake needs to be consistent because it can decrease the blood thinning effect.

Price: $

Buy Vega Protein & Greens online.

Beyond pea protein, Garden of Life contains 13 organic sprouts to really bump up that protein. What makes us really love it is the addition of probiotics, BCAAs, and enzymes. With 3 billion live probiotics and 13 different enzymes, this protein powder will be easy on your belly.

Considerations: This product uses stevia and erythritol to sweeten things up. Erythritol is a sugar alcohol, which provides sweetness without the calories. But sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues for some people.

Price: $$

Buy Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein online.

Soy gets a bad rap, but its actually a myth that it affects hormones. Many studies, including this one from 2018, have kicked that claim to the curb. This specific soy protein is low in fat and carbs, so it fits into many different eating styles. Its also affordable, organic, and gluten-free!

Considerations: This product does have some artificial flavors (and natural ones too) and doesnt provide much else beyond the protein and low carb/fat deal. And it only comes in the basic flavors.

Price: $

Buy Puritans Pride Soy Protein Isolate online.

Its difficult to find a rice-based protein that comes in flavors other than plain. Thats why this tops our list as the best rice protein, with three flavor options in addition to unflavored. The ingredient list is simple: enzymatically processed rice protein from whole grain, sprouted brown rice, and natural flavors. Plus, its gluten- and GMO-free.

Considerations: This powder is on the cheaper end but doesnt contain as much protein as some others. Its also very low in calories, so if you wanted to use it as a meal replacement, you would need to bulk it up with other foods like fruits, vegetables, or nuts.

Price: $

Buy NutriBiotic Rice Protein online.

Hemp protein comes from hemp seeds that are harvested from the Cannabis plant. Yes, the same one marijuana comes from but without the THC (the psychoactive part).

Hemp is a great source of fiber, which is important since only 5 percent of adults get the recommended amount of dietary fiber each day. The combo of fiber and omega-3s is beneficial for several aspects of your health, including digestive and heart health.

Considerations: This one comes in only two flavors. It also has much less protein than many other brands, sitting at 9 grams of protein per serving.

Price: $

Buy Hemp Yeah! Max Fiber Protein Powder online.

Whey protein isolate is one of the highest-quality whey protein options out there. A small 2017 study on young men found that whey protein enhanced whole-body protein metabolism and improved recovery after strenuous exercise.

One hundred percent of the protein comes from whey, and with the 5.7 grams of naturally occurring BCAAs, youll be seeing those muscles grow!

This product is also NSF-certified, which means all the raw materials used in it are FDA-approved and that whats listed on the label is exactly whats in the product.

Considerations: The pros outweigh the cons, but one con is that there are only two flavors to choose from.

Price: $$$

Buy Bodylogix Natural Isolate online.

Dont fall for marketing and reach for a protein powder thats specifically advertised to women. This one meets our standard because it contains 40 percent of the daily iron females need. Women who have a heavy flow can be at greater risk of iron deficiency (iron is in blood, so blood loss = loss of iron).

This product is soy-, dairy-, and gluten-free. And it contains good amounts of macro- and micronutrients, so it could easily be used as a meal replacement. Were looking at you, ladies on the go!

Considerations: This protein powder contains tree nuts, so steer clear if you have an allergy. It also has a small amount of added sugar and is a bit higher in total fat and carbs than some other powders.

Price: $$$

Buy KOS Organic Plant Protein online.

This USDA certified organic protein tops our list because, in addition to being organic, it meets the needs of a wide variety of people and eating patterns. Its kosher, vegan, and free of soy and gluten. And it comes in six delicious flavors.

Considerations: This powder has more carbs than some others. And it contains the sugar alcohol erythritol, which could cause stomach issues for some people.

Price: $$

Buy Orgain Organic Protein online.

This product says its from grass-fed cows and means it. The brands website claims the cows it uses are from Northern California and spend more than 300 days per year and 19 hours per day grazing in the pasture. This in is comparison to some brands that use cows from Wisconsin, where grazing is possible for only part of the year (because, ya know, snow).

The ingredient list is super short the unflavored has only one ingredient, and the other flavors have no more than three. This product is also gluten-free, contains 5.9 grams of BCAAs, and has no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors.

Considerations: The biggest ding is the serving size. Although the cost is on the lower end, this powder comes in only a 1-pound package with 15 servings. If youre using this on the reg, youll need to stock up.

Price: $

Buy Naked Whey online.

Instead of eating six eggs, just add one scoop of this powder to your favorite drink or food to get in 23 grams of protein. The consistency of egg white protein also avoids that chalky texture and makes the powder easy and smooth to mix.

This product also includes vegetarian digestive enzymes that support healthy digestion and may limit gas and bloating.

Considerations: Were a little bummed that there are only two flavors, but many egg white protein powders dont even have flavors!

Price: $$

Buy MRM Nutrition Egg White Powder online.

Vital Proteins gives you a good combination of protein and collagen with interesting flavors. We know whey protein helps build and repair muscles, and collagen can lend a hand by keeping bones strong and relieving joint pain. The addition of coconut water provides electrolytes, which can prevent dehydration.

Considerations: You need two scoops per serving, and there are only 15 servings per container. That means if you use this every day, you need another container after about 2 weeks. That can really add up!

Price: $$$

Buy Vital Proteins Collagen Whey Protein online.

Theres always a debate on which type of protein powder helps build muscle. Instead of picking one, why not have them all?

Apollo contains a 2:2:1 ratio of whey, casein, and egg white proteins. The combination of the three allows you to feel fuller for upwards of 6 hours. That means more time for your body to heal and prepare for the next weightlifting sesh.

Considerations: Better keep your wallet full if you want to commit to this protein. Its one of the most expensive on this list, and with 27 servings per container, you could blow through this faster than your muscles use it.

Price: $$$

Buy Apollo Pure Protein Powder online.

Not only does Truefit provide 25 grams of protein per serving, it also contains 12 non-GMO fruits and vegetables. The addition of these fruits and veggies along with 1 billion live probiotics means its packed with fiber, which can help you feel full longer. This powders balance of protein, fats, and carbs allows for an easy meal on the go!

Considerations: If youre lactose intolerant, youll need to skip this powder. It still contains milk, which will get that tummy rumbling (in a bad way). If youre following a low carb diet, the carbs per serving may push you over your daily limit.

Price: $$$

Buy Truefit online.

See more here:
17 Best Protein Powders of 2020: Whey, Casein, and Plant-Based - Greatist

Menopause diet tips: A woman's body goes through several changes during menopause. It is advised to consume a healthy diet to reduce its symptoms. Read here to know some diet tip for women straight from expert.

Menopause can bring many changes to a woman's body

Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycle in women. It usually begins between 45 to 55 years of age. This signifies that women cannot get pregnant naturally after menopause. During this period a woman's body goes through several hormonal changes. Irregular menstrual cycle is the most significant sign of menopause. It can lead to some unpleasant symptoms like vaginal dryness, hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, slow metabolism, night sweats, hair fall and much more. A healthy diet and lifestyle can help manage these symptoms of menopause. In this article, Ms. Edwina Raj, senior dietitian at Aster CMI hospital shares some diet tips to manage menopause symptoms.

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Symptoms of Menopause: One of the most effective tips to ease menopause symptoms is to eat a healthy and balanced diet which includes a generous mix of all food groups. Here are other tips that can also be helpful.

Menopause is a normal part of every woman's life. Weight gain during menopause is a common problem that one may experience. There are many reasons behind it. Here are the reason behind weight gain during menopause and ways to tackle it.

Diet, nutrition and lifestyle collectively influence menopausal symptoms. Due to a drop in oestrogen hormone menopause is quite challenging for most of the women.

Ms. Edwina explains, "This is commonly observed that most women pay less attention to their diet due to their busy schedule. High consumption of caffeine, alcohol, smoking, lack of exercise and nutritional deficiencies such as zinc and vitamin B6 are major culprits for early menopause. Furthermore, eating processed, refined foods such as maida/white bread/baked goods, sugar, junk food and white rice can impact one's body fat percentage, metabolism and also increases the risk of insulin resistance which could interfere with hormone production."

Also read:Menopause Symptoms: 5 Tips That Can Make Menopause Easy For You

A healthy diet with exercise can help manage symptoms of menopause Photo Credit: iStock

Menopausal symptoms can be extremely distressing and painful but can be tackled in most women through lifestyle modifications, therefore it is necessary to restrict intake of caffeine such as coffee, tea, aerated drinks, chocolates, to limit alcohol, unhealthy trans-fat sources like packed foods, ready to eat, baked goods, sugar and limiting saturated fat such as red meat, rich desserts and outside food. It is also important to watch out the intake of Vitamin A in supplements used routinely and salt intake as high intake of salt often increases the risk of calcium deficiency. Hence it is necessary to limit the hidden sources of sodium in our diet and to consult Nutritionist before you supplement yourself.

Also read:Weight Gain And Menopause: Reasons Why You Gain Weight During Menopause; Know Some Weight Loss Tips For Women During Menopause

Avoid too much caffeine consumption during menopause Photo Credit: iStock

Foods which are promising to help women during menopause are:

1. Mindful and healthy eating with right balance in nutrients will not only delay but ease the symptoms of menopause and prevent you from nutritional deficiencies. Get personalized diet advice today!

2. According to research data consumption of foods containing antioxidants, zinc and vitamin B6 is beneficial by including daily intake of fruits, vegetables, leafy, nuts, oilseeds and fish.

3. Phytoestrogens that have oestrogen-like activity such as isoflavones present in soya bean/soya paneer, legumes, beans, dals and sprouts. Also, women can include flaxseed, cereals, fruits and vegetables.

4. Vitamin E rich foods such as sunflower seeds, vegetable oils, leafy vegetables, nuts or supplement will help to relieve you from perimenopausal symptoms

5. Choose healthy fats rich in omega 3 such as fish, nuts, oil seeds etc. and avoid unhealthy saturated fats.

6. Focus on Vitamin D sources like mushroom, fatty fishes and from fortified foods like milk, cereals, oil etc. This helps your body to utilise the intake of calcium.

Also read:Can Early Menopause Affect A Woman's Health? Know Symptoms, Causes And Complications Of Premature Menopause

Other herbs which are commonly used to treat menopause lack adequate data to prove its efficacy but most of them can be toxic to your liver, therefore, do not supplement yourself without consulting your gynaecologist or qualified dietician.

Promoted

(Ms. Edwina Raj, Senior Dietitian, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Continue reading here:
Menopause Diet Tips: Know What To Eat And Avoid To Reduce Symptoms - NDTV Doctor

Heart attacks are serious medical emergencies that require immediate attention from a doctor. You could lower your risk of a deadly heart attack, which is also known as a myocardial infarction, by regularly going walking, swimming, or dancing.

Heart attacks are caused by a lack of blood reaching the heart.

Without enough blood, the heart could become seriously damaged - and it may even be life-threatening.

A heart attack could also be a symptom of coronary heart disease, which is where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, which limits the amount of blood reaching the heart.

One of the best ways to protect against heart attacks and heart disease is to take up certain exercises.

READ MORE: Heart attack symptoms - the major signs you're having a heart attack

Walking, swimming and dancing are ideal activities to protect your heart, according to the NHS.

They're aerobic exercises, which makes your heart beat faster, which is crucial to keeping it strong.

Exercising improves the efficiency of your circulatory system, while also lowering your cholesterol.

Everyone should aim to do at least 150 minutes of exercise every week.

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"There are several ways you can reduce your risk of developing coronary heart disease, such as lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels," said the NHS.

"Exercising regularly reduces your risk of having a heart attack.

"The heart is a muscle and, like any other muscle, benefits from exercise. A strong heart can pump more blood around your body with less effort.

"Any aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming and dancing, makes your heart work harder and keeps it healthy."

You should exercise until you raise your heart rate to reap the benefits.

It should also make you breathe faster, and you should be feeling warmer.

You should be able to still talk while exercising, but not sing.

To protect your heart, you should try combining your aerobic exercise with strength workouts.

You can lower your risk of a heart attack by making some small diet or lifestyle changes.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet will lower your chances of fatty deposits in your arteries.

Meanwhile, the most common heart attack symptoms include chest pain, anxiety, and having a radiating pain in your arms.

If you think you, or someone you know, may be having a heart attack, it's crucial that you dial 999 straight away.

See original here:
Three of the best exercises to lower your risk of a deadly heart attack - Express

Many Chinese people used to greet each other with "Have you had your meal?" to show their friendliness. Recently, a new greeting has emerged in many Chinese cities, namely "Have you lost weight?"

Chen Xin, a mid-level manager of a media company in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou, has surprised his friends after successfully getting slimmer. "Following instructions from my nutritionist, I went on a diet and lost 10 kg," Chen said with a satisfied smile.

In recent years, food-delivery services have been growing fast and entering every corner of Chinese cities. Also, Chinese people can easily get access to foods from all over the world. But people are paying more and more attention to their health.

On food-delivery platforms, food labeled with "low calories" and "light food", including wholewheat bread and coarse grain products, are becoming popular. More people are becoming familiar with various terms, such as "sugar cut-off" and "low-calorie Fast Diet plan".

"I used to eat a lot of unhealthy food, which brought me much trouble. My blood lipids, uric acid, and other indicators used to be far higher than normal levels," Chen said. "Now my health indicators are becoming normal, and I can feel that my body is in good condition again."

Chen is not alone. Many Chinese are troubled with "diseases of affluence", including obesity and hypertension, as the quality of life for most has greatly improved over the past decades. Most people no longer need to worry about if they have enough food, but rather if they have a healthy diet.

According to statistics from global market research firm Euromonitor International, the global meal replacement market reached $66.16 billion in 2017, of which the Chinese market contributed 57.17 billion yuan (about $8.45 billion). The Chinese market is expected to reach 120 billion yuan in 2022.

Despite healthier diets, many people believe, to lose weight, it is not enough if you only control your food intake. Exercise is also of vital importance.

Jiang Yichen, a consultant at a foreign consulting firm in Beijing, trains in the gym if he finishes work early. "Doing sports provides me with energy, and dopamine gives me a lot of pleasure after I sweat," Jiang said.

Like Jiang, many people are fond of various sports, and some even take fitness equipment home. Products such as body fat scales, fascia guns, and treadmills are among the best selling products on various e-commerce platforms.

Over the past two years, the online consumption of fitness equipment has increased significantly, particularly among women who attach great importance to body management, according to statistics on 2019 fitness equipment consumption on Tmall, an online e-commerce platform of Alibaba.

Many people even like to run marathons. In China's major cities, holding marathons has become a fashion. According to the China Marathon Annual Report, released by the China Athletics Association in 2019, 1,828 marathons were held nationwide in 2019, covering 31 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, with 7.12 million participants.

Health is an important manifestation of a state's soft power, and the improvement of overall health conditions can have a positive impact on economic development, said Wang Hufeng, a professor at the School of Public Administration of the Renmin University of China.

"China will succeed in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects this year, with health becoming a huge industry," said Li Hua, deputy director of the Zhejiang Provincial Sports Bureau.

"Health is a major issue of concern for the Chinese people. It is also an important part of the public's sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security," said Wang.

See original here:
Chinese eat healthier, exercise more over health concerns - Chinadaily USA

Immunity tips: Regular exercise can ensure a strong immunity

Building immunity is no rocket science, but surely requires some dedication and discipline. The immune system plays the important role of protecting body from harmful substances like bacteria, viruses and germs that causes illness. If you have a weak immune system, not only will you fall sick more often and easily, but it will also make it difficult for you to recover from them. The immune system fights disease-causing germs like virus, bacteria or fungi and help in removing them from the body. It recognises and neutralises effect of harmful substances in the environment and also fights disease causing changes in the body like abnormal growth of cells.

Lifestyle coach Luke Coutinho, in one of his recent posts on Instagram, talks about a few simple ways that can help you build a strong immunity. Following these tips can be especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's what you need to know:

1. Eat a wholesome and balanced diet: Eat fresh and homemade food, most of the times. Include lots of seasonal fruit and vegetables in your diet. Make sure your diet includes wholegrains, nuts, seeds, lentils and legumes.

Also read:Balanced Diet Essentials: Here's A List Of Expert Recommended Nutrients You Should Add To Your Diet

2. Adequate exercise: Exercising regularly can be your gateway to good health, healthy weight and strong immunity. Along with exercising for one hour or half an hour regularly, make sure that you are also physically active throughout the day. Pranayama, breathing exercises, yoga, squats, walk, climbing stairs or doing household chores are all ways to keep yourself physically active throughout the day.

3. Get good quality sleep: Sleeping well is important for a strong immunity. Getting good quality of sleep is important than the quantity of sleep, informs of Coutinho. Align your body according to the circadian rhythm. Avoid drinking caffeine after 4 pm, make your bedroom comfortable and cosy to sleep well and drink a cup of turmeric milk at bedtime.

Also read:These Soothing Yoga Poses Will Help You Sleep Better

4. Take less stress: Stressing too much can disrupt your sleep, digestion, weight loss goals and immune function amongst others. Meditation, deep breathing and spending some time in nature can help you relax and calm down.

Take less stress if you want a healthy functioning immune system Photo Credit: iStock

5. Work on your gut health: A healthy gut is an important prerequisite for a strong immune function. 80% of immunity resides in the gut, says Coutinho. Include probiotics and prebiotics like curd, yogurt, kefir, kimchi and kombucha in your diet. They feed the good bacteria in gut, improve gut flora and overall gut health.

Also read:Gut Health And Strong Immunity: Know The Surprising Link

A healthy and disciplined lifestyle which includes regular exercise, balanced diet, good sleep, less stress, little or no intake of alcohol and no smoking can help strengthen your immune system and enable it to function effectively.

(Luke Coutinho, Holistic Lifestyle Coach - Integrative Medicine)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Read more from the original source:
Immunity Tips: 5 Simple Tips To Strengthen Your Immune Function - NDTV

With an approximate one in five Indian women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), doctors say that more awareness is needed about the condition, especially because it can be controlled by proper diet, exercise and lifestyle changes. A major side effect of the hormone disorder? Acne and hair loss. These are also the symptoms that most patients present with first. We spoke to a dermatologist and a gynaecologist for their take.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where women produce higher-than-normal amounts of male or androgen hormones. This manifests as small cysts on the ovaries, which disrupt hormone levels and then cause irregular (or delayed periods) due to an ovulation imbalance. But what shows on the outsideacne, thinning hair and excess facial hair, is what patients usually consult their physicians for first.

PCOS disrupts your skin and hair texture. Because there is too much testosterone in the body, there is an increase in sebum and skin cell production, leading to acne. PCOS-induced acne shows up on the jawline, cheeks, chin and upper neck, shares Dr Gupta. Not only is hormonal acne uncomfortable, but it also can be painful, as the cysts and nodules can be hard and long lasting. In some cases, the skin texture becomes dry and there is darkening of the neck and underarms observed, adds Dr Mayur Das, consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi.

Hair growth is also thrown off balance. PCOS causes excess hair growth on face, chest or back. This is called hirsutism, and is a very common symptom. In a lot of cases, there is thicker hair growth on the face and body, but thinning of hair or hair loss near the frontal hairline, states Dr Das. Due to an overabundance of testosterone or androgen, hair may become thin or brittle, and begin to fall out without being immediately replaced.

The underlying cause is the hormonal imbalance, and the treatment for it is multifaceted. Doctors may prescribe oral contraceptives to decrease androgen production and regulate oestrogen, or may treat each symptom (like the hair loss or extreme acne) separately through medications or topicals.

Over-the-counter acne medications typically rely on benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulphur to help treat acne. Although these ingredients can help with mild breakouts, they usually aren't enough to treat hormonal acne, says Dr Gupta and adds that the prescription treatment isotretinoin (a type of retinol) may be required in case of severe cystic acne and acne. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics and spironolactone which helps lower testosterone levelswhich then reduces acne."

These same medications are used to reduce testosterone induced hair loss too, so it all works in tandem. In addition, doctors may suggest other therapies to kickstart hair growth once the hormonal imbalance is in control. PRP, mesotherapy and Progenra help to stimulate cell growth in the scalpan important addition to oral medicines.

Dr Gupta says that tamping down inflammation is important to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. Include leafy greens, seasonal fruits, high fat foods, nuts and seeds. Switch to a nutrient-rich diet with whole foods, less of refined and processed foods which are also heavy on preservatives. Stay away from carb-laden foods like white rice, potatoes, cakes and milk chocolates and cut down on sugar consumption to see a marked difference in your skin and hair texture, she says. Since weight gain and insulin resistance is another byproduct of PCOS, reducing these markers can go a long way in reversing the end result. Exercise is key tooit can lower blood sugar levels and prevent insulin issues. Reducing stress through exercise, meditation and other forms of mindfulness helps to deal with microstressors, which help to control the adrenal and cortisol levels of the body too.

Experts recommend supplementing the diet with omega acids, zinc and biotin to facilitate hair growth from within. Inositols are carbohydrates that can influence the body's insulin response, and when taken as a supplement may help improve metabolic and reproductive aspects of PCOS, explains Dr Gupta.

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How to manage and treat PCOS-induced acne and hair loss - VOGUE India

Pre-workout supplements are created to pump up your next sweat sesh. Most formulas come as a powder to mix with water and chug 30 minutes before your workout.

Pre-workout formulas are standard for professional athletes, but theyve also caught on in the mainstream.

Since theyre a dime a dozen on the market, it can be tough to figure out which ones are legit. It also takes time to find the one thats best and safest for your goals.

The ketogenic diet calls for high fat, low carb eating to encourage your bod to use its fat stores for fuel. The basic keto eating breakdown is 55 to 60 percent fat, 30 to 35 percent protein, and 5 to 10 percent carbohydrates.

When your body doesnt have carbs for energy, your liver steps in. It converts your fat into something called ketones, which can be burned for energy instead. Once your body starts this fat-torching process, its called being in a state of ketosis.

For folks on the keto diet, its important to choose a pre-workout that will *keep* their bodies in ketosis.

TBH, the answer varies wildly from product to product. You will see some common ingredients in both mainstream and keto-friendly pre-workouts.

Exactly what you think: Boost your energy to improve your performance.

From thiamine (B1) to cobalamin (B12), the B vitamins = brain and blood cell juice to help your body run on all cylinders.

Stevia. Saccharin. These guys make your jolt juice tasty.

Beta-whaaat? Keto pre-workout formulas differ from other formulas in two ways: They typically have no more than 1 carb per serving *and* they include beta-hydroxybutyrate.

Recent research suggests that pre-workout formulas with electrolytes and beta-hydroxybutyrate boost exercise performance by more than 10 percent for folks in ketosis.

Most pre-workout formulas include salts to replenish electrolytes lost to sweat, natural or artificial flavors, and sometimes a blend of herbs or vitamins.

This is perhaps the biggest issue with pre-workout powders and pills. The FDA doesnt evaluate the safety, effectiveness, or quality of dietary supplements or their ingredients. That includes the *amounts* of ingredients in so called proprietary blends. So, you could be getting more (or less) of a vitamin, mineral, or other ingredient than you bargained for. Pretty murky stuff, huh?

The best way to verify the nitty-gritty of pre-workouts with proprietary blends is to shop for products that have been certified by a third-party company.

Of course! Like most supplements, pre-workouts come with a side of research-backed results and personal claims.

Because of the caffeine content, most pre-workout supplements make your energy soar. And being wired AF increases your chances of going harder, faster, stronger.

Caffeines benefits go beyond the obvious too. Research indicates that it boosts exercise performance and decreases post-workout muscle soreness.

The ingredients listed above essential amino acids and performance-boosting beta-hydroxybutyrate will also increase pump and help you smash your workout goals.

Well, theres that whole proprietary blend thing. These blends are merely FDA-regulated, so theres the potential for mystery types and amounts of ingredients.

Pre-workout supplements will never be as straightforward as a simple pre-workout egg, avocado, or other whole-food snack. And even when dosing on essential amino acids and vitamins, you run the risk of getting too much of a good thing.

Finally, theres always a chance that your pre-workout wont mix well with your other supplements or prescription meds. Err on the side of caution and talk to your doctor before taking a new pre-workout formula.

Maximizing your workout is all about preparation.

Most pre-workout formulas are designed to be taken 20 to 30 minutes before exercising. This gives the ingredients time to take effect.

If youre craving a caffeine jolt, timing gets a bit trickier, because caffeine takes effect 45 to 60 minutes after you consume it.

Your best bet? Chug that pre-workout drink 30 minutes before your warmup. The amino acids and vitamins will already be surging through your system, and the caffeine will kick in soon after.

Youll typically choose a pre-workout supplement that has the right ingredients for your specific goals. Some ingredients give you major pump for lifting, while others boost your endurance.

Pick a pre-workout that fits your exercise style and goals.

Wanna support your pump during ketosis? Look for beta-hydroxybutyrate.

Need major jolt juice for HIIT? Go for the caffeine and B complex.

Hoping to beat your lifting record? Grab a pre-workout with creatine, athletes favorite ingredient for boosting strength and power.

Its a big deal that pre-workouts arent FDA-approved. If yours is stuffed with pointless fillers, youre wasting your cash at best. At worst, you could be harming your body instead of pumping it up for peak performance.

To be safe, professional or student athletes should get their pre-workout supplements approved by a coach or dietitian.

Not a pro? Ask your doc about any harmful interactions with your other supplements or prescription meds.

Keeping safety in mind, we searched for pre-workouts that are rated highly for keto-friendly ingredients, workout impact, reliability, and taste (when applicable).

Full disclosure: We used Amazons bestseller list and highest-rated products as a guide.

Our search turned up 11 classic pre-workout powders. But we also found a killer variety of pre-workout nibbles to rev up your next sweat sesh.

These supplement and powder formulas are classic pre-workouts but in keto form! Mix em up with water and chug about 30 minutes before your workout.

Need an a.m. pick-me-up? This citrusy pre-workout offers up caffeine from green tea extract. Its also dairy-free and gluten-free ideal for touchy tummies.

If the tame packaging worries you, leave those fears behind: This pre-workout has powerhouse ingredients like beta-hydroxybutyrate and MCTs.

The refreshing flavor comes courtesy of stevia, meaning theres less than 1 gram of carbs per serving. #winning

Price: $$$

Buy Perfect Keto Perform online.

The amino acids! The vitamins! The steady supply of caffeine! TBH, Kino Octane is one of the most well-rounded ways to boost your energy, replenish electrolytes, and generally pump up your muscle capacity.

Peep these ingredients: 6,000 milligrams of L-citrulline, 300 micrograms of vitamin B7, 100 milligrams of thiamine (vitamin B1), and no sugar.

Price: $$

Buy Kino Octane online.

Say hey to one of the first pre-workout supplements designed specifically for keto folks!

With fatty MCTs for fuel, BHB salts to keep blood sugar in check, and all the beta-hydroxybutyrate keto gym rats know and love, this third-party-tested lemon ice shake-up delivers.

Have texture issues? Beware. Reviewers say this one gets hella clumpy.

Price: $

Buy BPI Sports Ketogenic Pre-Workout Supplement online.

Want a true blue pre-workout? This one is Americas #1 selling pre-workout and swole idol Mat Frasers preferred formula. Thats why we also named it one of the best overall pre-workout supplements of 2020.

But wait theres more! Its third-party tested. Clocking in with less than 1 gram of carbs, its also keto-friendly AF.

Three cheers for transparent products that work!

Price: $

Buy C4 Original Pre-Workout Powder online.

With its A+ ingredient rundown no carbs, no caffeine, no sugar! Keto Drive is damn tasty. Take your pick from two flavors: black cherry or matcha lemonade.

Packed with the usual arsenal of pre-workout supplements, Keto Drive is also formulated with a patented beta-hydroxybutyrates (BHB) blend, supporting a rapid rise to ketosis.

Sensitive stomach? Ease into this one some reviewers say it gave them the runs and abdominal pain.

Price: $$

Buy Keto Drive online.

Not many pre-workout supplements are vegetarian or vegan. Thats because theyre packed with collagen or animal-based amino acids. So we were amped when we found Vega Sport, which is plant-based *and* gluten-free.

The formula comes in vanilla, mocha, or berry flavor, so its perfect for mixing with your fave plant milk or blending into a keto smoothie.

Price: $$

Buy Vega Sport online.

Weve got another BHB in the house! Reviewers back up this cherry-flavored pre-workouts claim: It supports pump so you can crush your next workout.

No carbs in sight, but Crush on Keto does include 2,000 milligrams of beta-alanine, 400 milligrams of L-taurine, a proprietary keto blend that includes L-arginine AKG and BHBs, and a whopping 250 milligrams of caffeine. So if caffeine hits you hard, start with half a scoop of this one.

Fans usually pair this pre-workout with the brands Burn on Keto supplements, but its always best to check with your doc before adding pills to your routine.

Price: $

Buy Crush on Keto online.

As the name suggests, this is as basic as a pre-workout gets. It has no sugar, no carbs, and no caffeine, so you might be wondering what *is* in these little packets of pre-workout.

One hundred percent pure MCT oil powder. Thats it.

Reviewers say the MCTs will get you focused AF and science says MCTs help folks reach peak performance in the gym.

Price: $$

Buy Stupid Simple MCT2GO online.

Though electrolytes are marketed for post-workout hydration replenishment, pumping your body with minerals pre-workout also revs up your energy and stamina and, ultimately, your pump.

Since its basically a hydration jolt, Electrolyte Recovery Plus wins the award for Most Tame Pre-Workout. But dont let the power of electrolytes fool you!

As one reviewer puts it, I just feel absolutely amazing. I feel so much stronger. Easing into pre-workout formulas? Give this a whirl!

Price: $

Buy Electrolyte Recovery Plus online.

With zero carbs or calories, Old School Labs Real Keto is the real deal. The caffeine and mushroom adaptogens are just the cherry on top.

Fans rave about this pre-workouts ability to accelerate workout intensity without sacrificing keto compliance.

Looking for a crash-free formula? Give this a whirl and let us know what you think!

Price: $$

Buy Old School Labs Real Keto online.

Mixed up in an FDA-regulated facility (*swoon*), Keto Rises organic caffeine formula could turn any night owl into an early riser.

Refreshing OJ flavor? Check. Vitamins A, C, D, and K to kick off your day? Check. Salts for optimum hydrate? Of course.

This supplement is also loaded with L-carnitine, which is known for improving workout recovery and fat-burning capabilities.

Price: $$

Buy Keto Rise online.

Need a break from the chugging? Load up on these keto-friendly bars for an occasional pre-workout snack instead.

With whole-food ingredients and 10 grams of protein per serving, Perfect Keto Bars live up to their name. The jolt of pure, fatty energy just might be worth the chunk of change.

Price: $$$

Buy Perfect Keto bars online.

What Stoka Bars lack in caffeine or amino acids, they make up for in delicious protein and fatty fuel. And we dare you not to love the ketolicious sweetness of the PB&J flavor!

Price: $$$

Buy Stoka bars online.

Remember that time we swooned over these keto grilled cheese bars? Yep, still loving them. These low carb, high protein, gluten-free, sugar-free snacks are a tasty way to kick-start your weekend workout.

Price: $$

See the article here:
29 Best Keto Pre Workout Snacks and Supplements - Greatist