Josh Perez Fitness

Studies show that up to 70 percent of the U.S. population is overweight or obese; and as you probably know all about how being overweight or obese has been linked and targeted to the following health conditions:

• Cancer
• Gout
• Heart disease and stroke
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Gallbladder disease and gallstones
• Osteoarthritis
• Breathing problems

But do you know how much America’s weight problem is costing us financially? A recent study tallies the bill as high as $150 billion annually, and the toll doesn’t end there: from research showing that obese workers earn $4.41 less per hour due to higher travel costs for heavier passengers on the roads and in the air. So in essence – a heavier body with higher body fat leads to a lighter wallet.

So if, as research proves, losing just 7 to 12 percent of total body fat can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, taking medications and more – just think what it can do for your checking account.

In light of this research study, the Duke Diet and Fitness team is offering a free evaluation to everybody who is willing to get on the right track for health and fitness.

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Here are some common misconceptions about this Valentine’s Day or any other chocolate loving holiday, along with some facts to set the record straight.

A daily serving of dark chocolate, which contains more antioxidants than milk chocolate, can also help lower blood pressure and improve insulin resistance according to a joint study between Tufts University in Boston and the University of L’Aquila in Italy. The findings do not suggest that people with high blood pressure consume dark chocolate in lieu of taking their prescribed medication, but that the flavor in dark chocolate may have a positive effect on blood pressure and insulin resistance.

Myth: Chocolate is high in caffeine.
Fact: While eating chocolate may perk you up, chocolate is actually not very high in caffeine. A 1.4-ounce chocolate bar or an 8-ounce glass of chocolate milk both contain 6 mg of caffeine, the same amount as a cup of decaffeinated coffee. (For reference, regular coffee contains about 65-135mg of caffeine.)

Myth: Chocolate is loaded with saturated fat and is bad for your cholesterol.
Fact: Stearic acid, the main saturated fat found in milk chocolate, is unique. Research has shown that it doesn’t raise cholesterol levels the same way that other types of saturated fats do. In fact, eating a 1.8 ounce chocolate bar instead of a carbohydrate-rich snack has been shown to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

Myth: Chocolate lacks any nutritional value.
Fact: Chocolate is a good source of magnesium, copper, iron and zinc. It also contains polyphenols (an antioxidant also found in tea and red wine) that have been associated with a decreased risk of coronary disease. An average chocolate bar contains about the same amount of antioxidants as a 5-ounce glass of red wine.

Myth: Chocolate causes cavities.
Fact: Candy alone is not responsible for cavities. Cavities are formed when bacteria in the mouth metabolize sugars and starches from any type of food (soda, candy, juice, bread, rice and pasta) to produce acid. This acid then eats through the enamel of the tooth, causing a cavity.

Myth: Chocolate causes headaches.
Fact: While sited as a common cause of migraines, a study by the University of Pittsburgh has shown no link between chocolate and headaches. The results of that double-blind study of 63 participants known to suffer chronic headaches were published in the neurology journal Cephalalgia. Chronic headaches were once thought to be caused by amines in foods (including histamine and beta-phenylethylamine) such as cheddar cheese, peanuts, cured meats, chocolate and alcohol, but this study eliminated chocolate as a possible headache cause.

Myth: Chocolate causes acne.
Fact: Regardless of what your parents or grandparents may still say, studies in the past twenty years have eliminated chocolate as a cause of acne. In fact, many dermatologists doubt that diet plays any significant role in the development of acne. Acne is now believed to be caused by a combination of high bacterial levels and oil on the skin.

Myth: Chocolate causes weight gain.
Fact: Any food can be part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation. An average chocolate bar contains 220 calories, which is low enough to be a part of a weight control diet if other high-calorie foods are eliminated. Enjoying the occasional piece of chocolate may reduce the risk of severe bingeing, which can occur when you feel deprived of your favorite foods.

Chocolate’s bad reputation is slowly changing and research now shows that chocolate can be a part of an overall healthy lifestyle, when consumed in moderation. If you keep your portion sizes small and select dark chocolate whenever possible, the occasional treat can be a guilt-free part of your nutrition plan.

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Compare The Top 7 Diet Plans For 2010

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 diet plans 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: New! Free Bonus! JUMPSTART KIT featuring: NEW FlavorFulls fiber drinks, personal weight loss coaching, Quick Tips, and 24/7 hotline!

   




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: Jan31G good until 1-31-10

   




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: 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.

   

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Thanks Mark for the article and thanks to Dr. Mao and his team for the research!

Soda, pop, cola, soft drink — whatever you call it, it is one of the worst beverages that you could be drinking for your health. As the debate for whether to put a tax on the sale of soft drinks continues, you should know how they affect your body so that you can make an informed choice on your own.

Soft drinks are hard on your health
Soft drinks contain little to no vitamins or other essential nutrients. However, it is what they do contain that is the problem: caffeine, carbonation, simple sugars — or worse, sugar substitutes — and often food additives such as artificial coloring, flavoring, and preservatives. A lot of research has found that consumption of soft drinks in high quantity, especially by children, is responsible for many health problems that include tooth decay, nutritional depletion, obesity, type-2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Why the sugar in soft drinks isn’t so sweet
Most soft drinks contain a high amount of simple sugars. The USDA recommendation of sugar consumption for a 2,000-calorie diet is a daily allotment of 10 teaspoons of added sugars. Many soft drinks contain more than this amount!

Just why is too much sugar so unhealthy? Well, to start, let’s talk about what happens to you as sugar enters your body. When you drink sodas that are packed with simple sugars, the pancreas is called upon to produce and release insulin, a hormone that empties the sugar in your blood stream into all the tissues and cells for usage. The result of overindulging in simple sugar is raised insulin levels. Raised blood insulin levels beyond the norm can lead to depression of the immune system, which in turn weakens your ability to fight disease.

Something else to consider is that most of the excess sugar ends up being stored as fat in your body, which results in weight gain and elevates risk for heart disease and cancer. One study found that when subjects were given refined sugar, their white blood cell count decreased significantly for several hours afterwards. Another study discovered that rats fed a high-sugar diet had a substantially elevated rate of breast cancer when compared to rats on a regular diet.

The health effects of diet soda
You may come to the conclusion that diet or sugar-free soda is a better choice. However, one study discovered that drinking one or more soft drinks a day — and it didn’t matter whether it was diet or regular — led to a 30% greater chance of weight gain around the belly. Diet soda is filled with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, or saccharin. These artificial sweeteners pose a threat to your health. Saccharin, for instance, has been found to be carcinogenic, and studies have found that it produced bladder cancer in rats.

Aspartame, commonly known as nutrasweet, is a chemical that stimulates the brain to think the food is sweet. It breaks down into acpartic acid, phenylalanine, and methanol at a temperature of 86 degrees. (Remember, your stomach is somewhere around 98 degrees.) An article put out by the University of Texas found that aspartame has been linked to obesity. The process of stimulating the brain causes more cravings for sweets and leads to carbohydrate loading.

Carbonation depletes calcium
Beverages with bubbles contain phosphoric acid, which can severely deplete the blood calcium levels; calcium is a key component of the bone matrix. With less concentration of calcium over a long time, it can lower deposition rates so that bone mass and density suffer. This means that drinking sodas and carbonated water increases your risk of osteoporosis.

Add in the caffeine usually present in soft drinks, and you are in for even more trouble. Caffeine can deplete the body’s calcium, in addition to stimulating your central nervous system and contributing to stress, a racing mind, and insomnia.

Skip the soda and go for:

Fresh water
Water is a vital beverage for good health. Each and every cell needs water to perform its essential functions. Since studies show that tap water is filled with contaminants, antibiotics, and a number of other unhealthy substances, consider investing in a quality carbon-based filter for your tap water. To find out more about a high-performance filtration system, click here.

On the go? Try using a stainless steel thermos or glass bottle, filled with filtered water. Enhance the flavor of your water with a refreshing infusion of basil, mint leaves, and a drop of honey.

Fruit Juice
If you are a juice drinker, try watering down your juice to cut back on the sugar content. Buy a jar of organic 100% juice, especially cranberry, acai, pomegranate, and then dilute three parts filtered water to one part juice. You will get a subtle sweet taste and the benefit of antioxidants. After a couple of weeks, you will no longer miss the sweetness of sugary concentrated juices.

Tea

Tea gently lifts your energy and has numerous health benefits. Black, green, white, and oolong teas all contain antioxidant polyphenols. In fact, tea ranks as high or higher than many fruits and vegetables on the ORAC scale, the score that measures antioxidant potential of plant-based foods. Herbal tea does not have the same antioxidant properties, though it is still a great beverage choice with other health benefits, such as inducing calming and relaxing effects.

If tea doesn’t satisfy your sweet tooth, try adding cinnamon or a little honey, which has important health benefits that refined sugar lacks. For a selection of healthy teas that promote total body wellness, click here.

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(HealthDay News) — Insomnia — the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep — can occur once in a while, or become chronic. It affects more women than men.

For treating insomnia the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these suggestions to help overcome insomnia:

• Talk to your doctor about identifying any underlying medical problems or mental health issues.
• Examine your daily routine for activities that may be affecting your sleep, including drinking alcohol or caffeine.
• Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using sleeping pills for a short time.
• Try working out in the morning, at least a solid hour of weight training and cardio conditioning.
• Try methods such relaxation therapy, sleep restriction therapy and reconditioning.

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