Josh Perez Fitness

An exerciser or athlete’s expectations of meal replacement formula’s are often unrealistic. This is completely understandable considering the barrage of advertisements that one encounters in the popular media (magazines and television). Like in Flex magazine, Muscle and Fiction whoops I mean Muscle and Fitness and other notable popular magazines. What meal replacement formulas are, as exactly as the name implies, meals designed for a quick absorption. I created this meal replacement formulas buying guide for the understanding of the everyday exerciser and athlete.

Currently in vogue is the high protein, low carbohydrate meal replacement. The implied or stated use and its pre- and post workout aid in creating an anabolic (muscle building) environment. All sports and exercise research shows that carbohydrates are necessary in a higher proportion than protein to facilitate recovery. Carbohydrates are absolutely necessary to replace glycogen lost during high – intensity exercise.

Additionally, the presence of carbohydrates via post workout stimulates the release of insulin, which basically is a anabolic signal, starting the cascade of events leading to protein synthesis (The rate your muscles rebuild themselves after being broken down by intense training). Protein should always be present in the meal replacement formula (but shouldn’t be the highest percentage) to supply the amino acids necessary to rebuild and increase muscle. Remember the more muscle we have – the more calories we will burn at rest and will have a smaller percentage of bodyfat.

The proper ratio of proteins, carbohydrates and fats can also optimize the anabolic environment by supporting favorable testosterone levels. Many exercisers and athletes consume high protein diets in the hopes of stimulating muscle anabolism (the process in a plant or animal by which food is changed into living tissue) yet this will actually impair ultimate muscle growth through a reduction of serum testosterone (A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood.).

For Females:

If your a female exerciser or a athlete competitor – look for “Lite Meal Replacements Powders.” Each serving typically contain less than 200 calories with smaller amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. This still works well because it is nutritionally packed with essential amino acids, minerals and vitamins. Here are my top picks for meal replacement formula’s for the women exerciser and athlete.

Click on the following Meal Replacement Formulas image for a full description:

For Males:

If you are a male exerciser or a athlete competitor – look for “High Carbohydrate/Protein Meal Replacements Powders.” These meal replacements formulas contain the highest amounts of protein ranging from 39 grams of protein per serving up to 60 grams of protein per serving. These meal replacement formulas cater to men who also seek to elevate their protein intake and performance. Here are my top picks for meal replacement formulas for the male exerciser or a athlete competitor.

Click on the following Meal Replacement Formulas image for a full description:

Refer to my Fitness Products – Deals and Fitness Products – Store for your savings on all major fitness brands.

Compare The Top 7 Online Diets For 2009

According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s report obesity is responsible for 300,000 adult deaths in the United States each year and are attributable to unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity. Therefore you need a specific plan of attack to understand what your body needs to eat. Your eating habits and proper percentages of carbohydrates, proteins and fats are unique as having your own “thumbprint.” That’s why online dieting is becoming the most effective and efficient method of getting introduced to a diet that works for you. I’ve reviewed all the major dieting sites targeted for the U.S. population. I welcome you to read all the reviews on this site and make your own decision. A great dieting service will not only give you a very comfortable and enjoyable experience, it will also increase your success in finding the results you need.

Below are the 7 of the best, reliable, and affordable online diet sites ranked according to the number of people who sign up, customer service reviews, online features, and maximum weight loss in the shortest amount of time. Follow our links to visit the sites we recommend and read a more in-depth review of each diet site. Are you ready to have your body back?

1. 5 Factor Diet

   The 5 Factor Diet online provides a multitude of options and preparation for success. This plan is designed to give you results in five weeks! And it’s so easy and effective that you may naturally turn your five-week plan into a lifestyle and is proven successful by Hollywood stars. Harley Pasternak has worked with stars of song and stage for years, aiding them with weight loss and maintenance. Familiar clients include Jessica Simpson, Kanye West, John Mayer and Alicia Keys. If you’ve ever dreamed of having the well-cared-for bodies that they have, 5-Factor Diet is your chance. What’s included with the 5 Factor Diet program: Daily Meal Planner – Hundreds of Recipes – Personal Recipe Box – Shopping List Tool – Food Log – Cooking Shortcuts – Eating Out Guide – Custom Fitness Plan – Activity Calculator – Weight Tracker – Online Journal – Ideal Weight Calculator – Daily Inspiration Message Boards.
   Read my complete review of The 5 Factor Diet.
   Current Promotion: Start now with 5 free diet tips! See why celebrities love this plan. Easy & effective. Subscribe now!

   




2. Nutrisystem

   Live counseling, both online and via telephone, replaced the embarrassing traditional customer visits and now they can avoid the sales pitch process, and created a new and extremely private way for people to deal with difficult weight loss issues! Additionally, by way of online ordering, NutriSystem could now deliver its quality food and meal programs directly to consumer doorsteps, providing them with a convenient and streamlined way to learn more sensible eating habits and can concentrate on their weight loss. Clients just log-in, decide on a recommended meal plan, order their food, and once it arrives, they’re ready to eat. NutriSystem also offers vitamins and dietary supplements to clients, to ensure that their customers receive proper nutrition while concentrating on weight loss. What’s included with the Nutrisystem Diet: Mindset Makeover A 13-Week Interactive Strategy Tool – Weight & Measurement Log – Progress Tracker – Food Diary – Exercise Log.
   Read my complete review of The Nutrisystem Diet.
   Current Promotion: Get two weeks of free food with NutriSystem! and Introducing NutriSystem Flex™, the program that gives you weekends off while still losing weight for $7 a day

   




3. Duke Diet & Fitness

   The website is easy to navigate and very attractive. Many people have seen weight loss on this diet. The Duke Diet and Fitness team really breakdown your behavioral habits and realize what you are more to prone too with eating habits and exercise. The program is extremely precise on breaking down every single component that is necessary for you to get towards your weight loss goal. The Duke Diet and Fitness team make it as specific solution as possible for your own body, goal, and daily habits. I highly recommend this diet for anyone who wants to lose weight, or perhaps start a solid workout routine that works for your own body! The Duke Diet online program comes at a low cost at $4 per week! Get your customized online program now, which is based on your goals and body. Learn More.
   Read my complete review of the Duke Diet & Fitness program.
   Current Promotion: Get the Weight Off: Learn the 4 principles of proven weight loss. Free evaluation!

   




4. Medifast Diet

   Medifast teaches you to eat well. I believe in the body’s natural ability to heal itself with proper nutrition and I believe in you and your ability to achieve real results with Medifast. Medifast offers you a choice rich menu of nutritionally complete products, support services and new opportunities to create a life of health, hope and happiness. Medifast is here to serve you, because you matter and the success of our clients truly inspires us to be your life-long and trusted partner in health. Medifast products are formulated with a High Fullness Index™ so you don’t get hungry. You lose weight quickly — up to 20 pounds a month — while learning how to eat healthier. Medifast Meals are formulated with low-fat protein and fiber, and fortified with vitamins and nutrients, so you lose pounds and inches without losing out on essential nutrition. The Meals’ low glycemic formula makes them perfect for people with type 2 diabetes. What’s included with the Medifast Diet: Message Boards – Order Form – Daily Success Tracker – Plateau Tips – BMI Calculator – Nutrition Details – Diabetic Guide.
   Read my complete review of The Medifast Diet.
   Current Promotion: Medifast – $50 off any purchase of $275 or more! Use Coupon Code: APR30C good until 4-30-09

   




5. eDiets

   The eDiets Weight Loss Meal Plan and The Low Glycemic Impact Diet is our most popular meal plan because of its flexibility and convenience. It is a balanced approach to eating, providing 3 meals and 1 snack daily. Using familiar favorites, it never feels like a diet and is easy to follow. It helps teach lifelong eating habits based on portion sizes and moderation. Also, the Weight Loss Meal Plan is customized to your preferences. Based on the food pyramid, as well as recommendations from the American Heart Association, it provides 50-65% of your calories from carbohydrates, 20-25% of your calories from protein and less than 30% of your calories from fat. eDiets focuses on flexibility, convenience, and a healthy balance of your favorite foods. You will surely not get bored with this diet because your meals are adjusted weekly and designed with you in mind. The eDiets program follows a low calorie diet. If you are looking for a more specific kind of diet, just re-submit your eDiet free profile analysis. All of the Diets at eDiets include: Customized menus – recipes and convenience food options – A personalized fitness plan designed by trainers – live phone support from registered dieticians – plus 24/7 online member support – online community – motivating member challenges – eDiets Weight Loss Guarantee – if a customer’s weight loss goal isn’t reached in 6 months or less, eDiets will give them the next 6 months FREE!
   Read my complete review of The eDiets Program.
   Current Promotion: Use Promo Code SAVE25 to Save 25% at eDiets!

   




6. The Zone Diet

   The Zone Diet works by working the right ratio of carbohydrates to proteins and fats in order to control the insulin in the bloodstream. Too much of the hormone (insulin) can increase fat storage and inflammation in the body (conditions that are associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease). Dr. Sears asserts that by using the Zone Diet you are actually optimising the body’s metabolic function. Through the regulation of blood sugar, you allow your body to burn excess body fat. Also, The Zone Diet is precisely in line with the dietary guidelines developed by the Joslin Diabetes Center and The Harvard Medical School for overweight and obese adults with Type 2 diabetes, prediabetes or at high risk for developing diabetes. What’s included with The Zone Diet: Zone Block & Body Fat Calculator – 7-Day Meal Planner – Quick Start Guide – Healthy Recipes – Dr. Sears blog – Fitness and Motivation blog.
   Read my complete review of The Zone Diet.
   Current Promotion: FREE 7 Day Meal Planner Kickstart Your Health & Wellness Regimen and SAVE 20%

   




7. South Beach Diet

   The South Beach Diet is not low-carb or low-fat. Instead, the South Beach Diet teaches you to change the balance of food you eat to emphasize health and weight-loss! You’ll do away with bad carbohydrates and bad fats, and start eating good fats and good carbohydrates. Once you sign up and start losing weight, they will customize your success plan and guide you through each of their three phases of weight loss. The South Beach Diet itself has some scientific flaws and many nutritionists and fitness professionals like myself would argue that its promise of losing 8-12 pounds in 14 days is a bit aggressive and may not be able to stand up against the test of time. While cutting out white flour, sugar, and processed foods from your diet is a great idea, the South Beach Diet is actually one of the most dangerous diets out there. I would use this diet for the protein rich healthy tasting recipes and as a crash diet! With the meals you should add in your own complex carbohydrates. By adding an additional 150-300 calories to each recommended meal, your are teaching yourself a healthy balanced way of eating. Whats included with The South Beach Diet: Meal Planner – Food preferences – Diet phase – Weight Tracker – Journal Tool.
   Read my complete review of The South Beach Diet.
   Current Promotion: Get exclusive access to recipes, advice, support. Free diet profile.

   

For hundreds of thousands of years, people have been using healthy aphrodisiacs (a drug or other agent that stimulates sexual desire) from herbs, spices, fruits, vegetables, insects, and animal organs to enhance their sexual love lives. How effective are these healthy food aphrodisiac stimulants? According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), not very effective at all. In fact, in 1989 the FDA asserted that there was no scientific evidence that aphrodisiacs have any effect on libido whatsoever. Still, many people claim that certain foods put them in the mood. Here’s a list of 8 legendary healthy aphrodisiacs that are safe for you and your partner to use!

1. Oysters

Some people say it’s because they’re high in zinc, while others say it’s because they resemble a woman’s vulva — either way, oysters are among the world’s oldest reputed aphrodisiacs. Try some fresh oysters on the half shell with a squirt of lemon juice and some hot sauce. Or make it more interesting and try some oyster shooters with your partner.



2. Strawberries

These delicious summer berries are considered erotic because of their likeness to nipples. They’re also a rich source of vitamin C, fiber, and water. Eat them on their own, or add them to your favorite salad, smoothie, or dessert. If you want to multiply the berries’ “aphrodisiac” powers, dip them in warm chocolate or hot fudge!



3. Ginseng

Many aphrodisiacs gain their reputation because of their resemblance to sexual organs. This is true for ginseng, an Asian herb used to boost immune function, whose name means “man root.” According to the FDA, “Ginseng has been looked on as an invigorating and rejuvenating agent for centuries in China, Tibet, Korea, Indochina, and India.” Studies have shown that ginseng may sexually stimulate animals, but there is no conclusive evidence that it has any effect on a human’s sexual response.



4. Chili Peppers

Chilies contain capsaicin, a compound that makes the peppers spicy. Which is also a natural diuretic. Capsaicin will also raise your heartbeat, cause you to perspire, and release endorphins that may trigger feelings similar to those experienced during sexual arousal. Chili peppers are good for you too — they contain antioxidants, flavonoids, and double the amount of vitamin C found in citrus fruits.



5. Avocado

The avocado has long been considered an aphrodisiac. Its ancient Aztec name, ahuacatl, actually means “testicle,” and the fruit was associated with fertility. Avocados are also considered to be a super food because they are high in antioxidants, fiber, and monounsaturated fat. This “good” fat has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Remember, you need positive fat to burn fat!



6. Asparagus

Known in the world of erotic foods for its phallic form, asparagus is also rich in vitamins and minerals and high in fiber. There are many ways you can take advantage of this tasty veggie — steam it, grill it, roast it, or throw it in some pasta or a stir-fry. After 15 minutes or so after you consume this vegetable your urine develops a strange odor — it’s just a natural chemical reaction that will go away once the asparagus has been fully digested.



7. Honey

Ancient customs encouraged newlyweds to drink mead, a fermented drink made with honey, to increase fertility and add sweetness to the marriage. But you don’t need mead to sweeten your relationship — enjoy honey on its own, dissolved in tea, or in place of sugar. Honey is also known for its cancer-fighting antioxidants and wound-healing powers.



8. Chocolate

Lastly we have chocolate! Full of disease-fighting antioxidants, chocolate is now considered a super food with potential health benefits. But through the ages, it’s been linked to love and romance thanks to its effect on neurotransmitters and endorphins (the “feel good” chemicals) in the brain. When indulging, try to choose dark chocolate with at least 60 percent cacao — the more cacao the better, since this is probably the source of chocolate’s health benefits. Don’t overdo it, though, because this sweet treat is still high in calories! You can enjoy another post of mine titled the “7 Misconceptions Of Chocolate.“

Refer to my Fitness Products – Deals and Fitness Products – Store for your savings on all major fitness brands.

During an athletes competitive career or an average person fitness routine, an anti-oxidant formula that complements your multivitamin is paramount. The goal of taking an antioxidant is to decrease some of the deleterious oxidative effects of exercise.

We are all susceptible to harmful environmental chemicals, aging, intense exercise, and the rays of the sun on a daily basis. This increases our already delicate but normal free radical production and protection balance from increasing damage to our bodies. In other words, this will accelerate our aging process and possibly speed up the start of certain diseases.

Though moderate exercise can increase free radicals, high intensity exercise may exceed the body’s natural ability to protect against long-term damage. Many antioxidant studies on exercise focus on aerobic training (cardio). Some latest research examined weight training and antioxidant supplements, they found that the weightlifters who supplemented with vitamin E at 1200 IU/d, significantly reduced the markers for muscle damage. Also, taking vitamin C also resulted in reduction of cortisol (catabolic hormone/ natural human toxin) following training. Lastly, it increased the post-workout testosterone to cortisol ratio in weightlifters and is showed to enhance the anabolic (muscle growth) environment.

With the majority of evidence, it supports that taking vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta-carotene supplements (antioxidants) will lower your fatigue rate, and will bolster your workouts. Also, the supplementation of an antioxidant will enhance recovery, and the length of time for optimal performance (productive years of competition)!

Below, I put my recommendation of the best time release antioxidants for vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene supplements.

Refer to my Fitness Products – Deals and Fitness Products – Store for your savings on all major fitness brands.

There really is no 100% way to avoid getting sick or preventing the common cold. But one of the best ways to avoid it is to wash your hands before eating, when preparing food, even after using someone else’s phone at work. Or even when your done working out, touching the machines, someone else’s sweaty dumbbells and laying on drenched sweaty stretch mats. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen grown men leave the bathroom without washing their hands – even after going number 2!

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, colds can occur any time of year, but they mostly affect people during winter. When someone has a cold, their nose is teeming with a virus that is spread when they cough, sneeze or touch something. People are most contagious during the first two or three days of a cold. So take in plenty of vitamin C and drink plenty of water to keep your body clean and germ free.

One of the best ways to care for your feet is to invest in a good pair of workout shoes. There is nothing worse than trying to workout when you’re experiencing pain and risking possible injury. To improve your workouts, look for a high-quality shoe with a good fit that is made to support the activities you do.

Here are a few simple tips to follow along with the best shoemaker that fits each category:

Running Shoes:

Have additional cushioning to absorb shock as your foot hits the ground, which helps to reduce blisters. They are flexible and light. Running shoes are designed for forward motion, so they don’t support you well when you move in other directions (like during basketball or step aerobics). Look for New Balance Shoes or try Road Runner Sports as they rate top of the food chain for running shoes.
See current promotion for New Balance and Road Runner Sports.

Trail Shoes:

Have added traction for running and walking in grass, mud, or trails. Walking shoes tend to be stiffer and heavier than running shoes. These provide more support since your foot rolls from heel to toe more slowly than when you run. Look for Adidas trail shoes!
See current promotion for Adidas.

Cross Training Shoes:

Are great for people who have a varied workout routine or play different sports. This is the most versatile athletic shoe, designed to give more support for changes in direction and impact, making them an economical choice. They’re heavier and less cushioned than running shoes and not recommended if running is your main mode of training. Look for the Nike cross training shoe.
See current promotion for Nike.

Specialty Shoes:

They exist for weight lifting, cycling, hiking, tennis, basketball, and soccer. If you engage in these activities multiple days a week, consider buying a sport-specific shoe to fit your needs. Puma shoes are a great fit here.
See current promotion for Puma.

Lifestyle shoes:

Are not made for athletic activities, even though they are made by the same manufacturers who make running and workout shoes. These shoes have flat soles and a sporty look, but not enough support for a workout or recreational activity. They’re fine for running errands or casual wear, but don’t make them part of your exercise gear. For the lifestyle shoes, Nike has everyone beat.
See current promotion for Nike Lifestyle.

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