Archive for the 'Hard Body Nutrition' Category

Compare The Top 7 Diets For 2009

April 27, 2009
By Josh Perez

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!

    Five Factor Diet - Learn How Celebrities Lose Weight


  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

    NutriSystem, Inc.


  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!

    Duke Diet - Get Your 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

    Medifast - lose the weight


  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!

    Click Here to Lose Weight with 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.

    South Beach Diet - Start Losing Weight Today


8 Healthy Aphrodisiacs

April 24, 2009
By Josh Perez

man-and-woman-intimate

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!

oysters-on-ice

  1. Oysters
  2. 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.

    strawberries

  3. Strawberries
  4. 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!

    ginseng

  5. Ginseng
  6. 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.

    chili-peppers

  7. Chili Peppers
  8. 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.

    avocado-image

  9. Avocado
  10. 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!

    green-asparagus

  11. Asparagus
  12. 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.

    honey-image

  13. Honey
  14. 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.

    chocolate-image

  15. Chocolate
  16. 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.

Duke Diet & Fitness Review

April 5, 2009
By Josh Perez

The Duke Diet:

The DukeDiet & Fitness center has been helping people lose weight and lead healthier lives since 1969. And now, for the first time ever, Duke Diet & Fitness is online to help you. The experts at the world-renowned center are thrilled at this opportunity to share their weight-loss knowledge with you. For more information, please visit the official Duke Diet website.

How the Duke Diet works:

The Duke Diet & Fitness Online program is based on a proven weight-loss plan made up of four components for success: a personalized diet, a fitness routine, behavioral strategies, and medical expertise. As a member, you will receive guidance and information from a renowned expert in each of these four areas. You will get daily encouragement, a customized Meal Planner, exercises that you can do in the comfort of your own home, and advice based on recent weight-loss studies and findings.

Studies show that people who diet online have great success. As a member of Duke Diet & Fitness Online, you will be provided with the tools you need to lose weight — such as an interactive Weight Tracker, 400 recipes, an online community, online support, expert weight-loss information, and 16 online weight-loss tools.

Duke Diet - Get Your Evaluation

The Mental Block:
The Duke Diet online program comes at a low cost at $4 per week! Its great knowing that your program is supported by doctors and professionals at Duke University, you have the support system available at all times, and all the tools you need to get skinny and stay fit. Your credit or debit card is billed quarterly, with a charge of $65 every 13 weeks. If you are not satisfied with the program, you can receive a full refund with the exception of the minimum 5-week charge of $20. This gives you a chance to see results while not feeling locked in for a full 13-week period, but the proven methods and long track record of success, you’ll want to keep going well beyond the first five weeks.

The Result:
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.

Back to Fitness Diets – Reviews

Functional Foods

February 11, 2009
By Josh Perez

This is a great way to make your diet work for you especially if your goal to lose some stubborn bodyfat – that just won’t go way. Of all of the functional foods out there, ginger has arguably the most functions and benefits. It’s used to settle the stomach, reduce pain, and it has antibiotic/ anti-inflammatory properties. The most important function of this food, is that studies show that ginger can boost metabolism in 2 outlets:

  1. By causing muscle tissue to use more oxygen, which increases the amount of calories you burn
  2. Increasing the lactic acid production, which also increases your fat burning potential

One more note, I’ve been receiving quite a few questions regarding coffee and how it is suppost to burn fat. Well that is completely false. Caffeine is a stimulant and causes a surge of energy to the nervous system and causes the body to release catecholamines, which target fat cells and use bodyfat for fuel. This is why coffee is a noted fat-burner.

Here is the problem: when coffee is combined with carbohydrates (mainly the sugar you dump in) the fat-burning potential is stunned and causes a subsequent rise in the fat-storing hormone called insulin. The only way to burn fat from this, is by the absence of insulin, and then the catecholamines can burn more fat.

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

13 Reading Food Label Tips

November 14, 2008
By Josh Perez

food-label-pic

In 1994 the U.S. government began requiring manufacturers to put nutrition information on food labels. You can use this information to make better choices about what you buy and eat. Look for the following:

  1. Look for foods with lower or zero levels of saturated fats.
  2. Pay close attention to serving sizes.
  3. Products labeled “light,” or “lite,” must have a third fewer calories or half the fat of the foods with which they are compared. “Light” can also mean that salt has been reduced by half.
  4. Calcium is important for bones, teeth, and prevention of Osteoporosis.
  5. The “sodium” amount tells you how much salt is in the food.
  6. Look for products that have more fiber and less sugar.
  7. Vitamins and minerals will help your body function properly.
  8. Use the “percentage of daily value” section as a guide for daily planning of servings.
  9. The number of calories a person needs each day depends on many factors, including amount of exercise.
  10. Look for calories first and then grams of sugar.
  11. The lower the cholesterol the better.
  12. Any food labels with high amounts of protein is great.
  13. Look to see how the product is made, in particular, why should food contain high fructose corn syrup.

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

Eat Fast Food And Stay Healthy

November 8, 2008
By Josh Perez

big-burger

With the holidays around the corner and the stressful shopping ahead, most Americans will have the urge to dine out on fast food. With a little bit of know-how, you can “occasionally” enjoy fast foods while maintaining a healthy weight-loss program and stress free holiday shopping experience. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:

  • Avoid supersize combo meals, or split one with a friend.
  • Sip on water or fat-free milk instead of soda.
  • Use only small amounts of high-fat, high-calorie toppings, like regular mayonnaise, salad dressings, bacon, and cheese or none at all.
  • Choose salads and grilled foods, like a grilled chicken breast sandwich or small hamburger.
  • Try a “fresco” taco (with salsa instead of cheese or sauce) at taco stands.
  • Fried foods, like french fries and fried chicken, are high in fat and calories, so order them only once in a while, order a small portion, or split an order with a friend.

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

Key Menu Words

October 8, 2008
By Josh Perez

The key menu words below are a general guide for eating out or grocery shopping. Although, food items can be very healthy or unhealthy regardless of the use of any of these key menu words. There are times when these words are used to mislead you (which is why we call them “key menu words” and not “guarantees”). So use this guide along with your best judgment and stay clear of the bad stuff.

SAY “NO” TO THESE:

  1. Breaded
  2. Fried/Deep Fried
  3. Creamed/Creamy
  4. Béarnaise or hollandaise
  5. White Sauce
  6. Crispy
  7. Cheesy
  8. Buttery
  9. Loaded
  10. Bottomless
  11. “Bet you can’t finish it…”
  12. Au gratin
  13. Country-style
  14. Volcano

SAY “YES” TO THESE:

  1. Steamed
  2. Reduced
  3. Baked
  4. Marinated
  5. Seasoned
  6. Fat Free
  7. Whole Wheat
  8. Multi-grain
  9. Vegetarian
  10. Light
  11. High Fiber
  12. Fresh
  13. Red sauce
  14. Vinaigrette

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