The Printed Owl Health and Fitness

Mini workouts

2011-12-24T09:38:00.001-08:00

Mini workouts. Several mini workouts can be as effective as one extended workout. For busy people it may be much easier to split a workout into several smaller sessions. Breaking up the day with several 10-minute workouts can wake you up and make you more productive during low energy parts of your day. Split exercise sessions may also make your workouts more efficient.
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Fatigue

2011-12-21T17:50:00.001-08:00

Fatigue. Fatigue is a normal signal for your body to slow down. Persistent fatigue interferes with your daily life. Beside the normal causes of fatigue, other factors include depression, high stress, sleep deprivation, poor nutrition, alcohol use, allergies, medications, viral infections and chronic pain. Rid fatigue by getting enough sleep, exercise, stress management and good nutrition.
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Processed meat

2011-12-20T16:53:00.001-08:00

Processed meat. Eating cured meats such as hot dogs, smoked turkey, bacon or salami may double your risk for lung disease, according to a recent Columbia University Medical Center study as published in Ladies Home Journal. Researchers believe the preservatives used in processing these meats may cause lung disease and damage lung tissue.
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Grapes

2011-12-19T16:07:00.001-08:00

Grapes. At 100 calories per serving, grapes are loaded with nutritional value. Grapes contain Vitamins A, C, and B6, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, as well as fiber and protein. The nutrients found in grapes have been found to prevent a number of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and age-associated diseases like Alzheimer’s.
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Swimming

2011-12-17T12:02:00.001-08:00

Swimming. The health benefits of swimming are almost unmatched by any other sport. Swimming works your whole body, improving cardiovascular conditioning, muscle strength, endurance, posture, and flexibility, all at the same time. Your cardiovascular system in particular benefits because swimming improves your body’s use of oxygen without overworking your heart.
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Agonist and antagonist

2011-12-16T18:54:00.001-08:00

Agonist and antagonist. An agonist muscle is generally the muscle we are exercising. An antagonist muscle is the opposing muscle and acts in contrast to the agonist. For example, the biceps and triceps muscles act as the agonist and antagonist muscles during a barbell curl weight lifting exercise.
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Colds

2011-12-15T17:58:00.001-08:00

Colds. Cough and colds are most common during the winter months when indoor germs are contained and spread more easily. Use the following tips to avoid cough and cold: wash your hands often; avoid putting your hands near your eyes, nose and mouth; make sure shared items are cleaned frequently; get enough rest; drink more water; limit alcohol consumption; and eat healthy.
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Low sodium

2011-12-13T17:58:00.001-08:00

Low sodium. Some foods are marketed and sold as “low in sodium”. The Food and Drug Administration defines the term "low sodium" as a food serving with less than 140 mg of salt per serving. Most Americans consume more than double the recommended daily amount of sodium (1,500 mg to 2,000 mg).
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Lactic acid

2011-12-12T17:21:00.001-08:00

Lactic acid. Lactic acid is characterized as a muscle fuel. Muscle cells convert glucose to lactic acid, which is taken up and used as fuel by mitochondria, the energy factories in muscle cells. Increased muscle mitochondria allow athletes to burn more lactic acid, which makes muscles work harder and longer. Lactic acid was once considered a waste product.
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Coffee

2011-12-11T06:44:00.001-08:00

Coffee. There are nearly 110 million regular coffee drinkers in the U.S. Some of the adverse health affects of drinking coffee include stained teeth, bad breath, increased stress level, and inducement of stomach problems. Some positive affects of coffee are short-term body stimulant, natural diuretic, and increased short-term memory retention.
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Incomplete protein

2011-12-10T07:28:00.001-08:00

Incomplete protein. Our bodies need protein for good health. Incomplete proteins are labeled so because they lack the adequate essential amino acids found in complete proteins. Complete proteins are contained in foods such as meat, eggs and dairy products. Incomplete proteins are found in vegetables, beans and other plant products.
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Static stretching

2011-12-09T17:36:00.001-08:00

Static stretching. This type of stretching consists of slowly moving into an extreme range of motion and holding that position for a certain amount of time. You stretch to the farthest point and hold the stretch. Static stretches are recommended for a workout cool down.
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Circuit training

2011-12-08T16:50:00.001-08:00

Circuit training. Circuit training combines strength training exercises along with endurance exercises. Circuit's fast-paced methods are designed to work all muscle groups as well as heart and lungs. The term circuit represents the method's quick rotation of exercises.
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The President's Challenge

2011-12-07T17:06:00.001-08:00

The President's Challenge. The President's Challenge encourages all Americans to make being active part of their everyday lives. Since 1966, the program has been motivating and rewarding kids, teens, adults and seniors to improve their lives through physical activity and fitness efforts. President Bush reinvigorated the initiative in 2002 with the President's Challenge Awards Program.
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Super Size Me

2011-12-06T16:45:00.001-08:00

Super sized. The documentary film "Super Size Me" chronicles director and star Morgan Spurlock's one month exclusive diet of McDonalds food. Spurlock's 5,000 calorie per day diet results in drastically higher blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, while affecting his psychological well-being. Spurlock gained 25 pounds. The film grossed nearly $29 million worldwide.
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Pilates

2011-12-05T16:29:00.001-08:00

Pilates. The Pilates method is a physical fitness system that encourages the use of the mind to control the body's core postural muscles. Joseph Pilates developed the system as a rehabilitation program for returning World War I veterans. Pilates is one of the fastest growing exercise programs and is associated with improving core strength, flexibility and agility.
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Flu-free

2011-12-04T05:58:00.001-08:00

Flu-free. The best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu vaccination. Almost two-thirds of the population is recommended to get the shot. This includes people over age fifty, children ages six-months to five years, people in close contact with children, people with chronic diseases, and health care workers.
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Take a break

2011-12-03T06:38:00.001-08:00

Take a break. Taking breaks during an exercise regimen may burn more fat and yield more weight loss than not taking a break. According to a recent article in the Journal of Applied Physiology, Japanese researchers conducted the first known comparison between the two exercise methods and found taking a break in the middle of a workout metabolized more fat than exercising with no break.
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Vitamin D

2011-12-02T16:34:00.001-08:00

Vitamin D. Vitamin D refers to a group of prohormones that regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in blood; promote bone formation; help regulate the parathyroid gland; and help the immune system. Food sources of Vitamin D include fish, such as salmon and mackerel, mushrooms, whole eggs and yeast. Natural sources include exposure to sunlight.
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Stress

2011-11-29T03:32:00.001-08:00

Stress. Research shows that stress is linked to increased risk for heart attacks, depression, cancer and the progression of H.I.V. and AIDS. Workplace stress may be as bad for your heart as smoking and high cholesterol. Another negative of stress is that it can trigger bad habits like overeating, lack of sleep, and smoking and drinking, which cause further health issues.
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SHAPE

2011-11-28T14:49:00.001-08:00

SHAPE. SHAPE magazine is the source for women's health and fitness. From diet and exercise to psychology and health, SHAPE presents scientifically sound and research based articles. Each issue offers a wide range of tools designed to help the reader become healthier, more energetic, confident, motivated, and less stressed. Learn more as Shape.com.
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Secondhand Smoke

2011-11-27T07:04:00.001-08:00

Secondhand Smoke. Secondhand smoke comes from the smoke that smoker’s exhale and from the end of the cigarette, cigar, or pipe. Secondhand smoke contains chemicals that are toxic or cause cancer. Secondhand smoke significantly increases a person's risk for respiratory infections, asthma, coughing, sore throats, sniffling, sneezing, cancer and heart disease.
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Diet Online

2011-11-26T07:39:00.001-08:00

Diet Online. eDiets.com is one of the Internet's top diet sites. Dieters get a free diet profile and choose a plan with the help of eDiets professionals. The site also provides diet news features, diet plans, fitness tools and plans, a shop and a diet community chat room. There are over two million worldwide members enrolled on eDiets.com.
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Lower back stretch

2011-11-25T14:49:00.003-08:00

Lower back stretch. This exercise works the abs, back and chest. Start by lying face down, legs together, arms bent with your hands resting together behind your back. Using your back, lift your head and chest about 1 foot off the floor, hold for two seconds, and lower to the start position. Do ten of these for one set of this exercise.
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Lower back stretch

2011-11-25T14:49:00.001-08:00

Crunches

2011-11-24T09:06:00.001-08:00

Crunches. This classic exercise was designed solely for the abs. Start by lying flat on your back, elbows bent with hands behind your head, and knees bent. Using your abs bring your right elbow forward to touch your left knee, pause and return to the start position. Repeat for the left elbow to complete one repetition. Start with a set of ten crunches and work up as desired.
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V stretch

2011-11-23T04:18:00.001-08:00

V stretch. This exercise works the lower back, groin, hamstring and hips. Start by sitting up with your legs stretched out in front like a V. Stretch each arm to touch each foot, hold for four second and return to the start position. Start with a set of ten and work up as desired.
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The talk test

2011-11-22T15:06:00.001-08:00

The talk test. The American College of Sports Medicine specifies the "talk test" as way to gage your activity level. People who are able to comfortably converse during exercise are likely working out at an acceptable intensity, probably somewhere around the low-middle range of their heart rate zone. Studies show that maximum benefits are achieved when we exercise at our target heart range.
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Averages

2011-11-21T16:12:00.001-08:00

Averages. What is your height and weight? In the United States, the average female is about 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighs about 140 pounds. The average male is about 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs 162 pounds. Between 1960 and 1990 the average American male grew 2 inches taller and 27 pounds heavier, while the average American woman grew 2 inches taller and 1 pound heavier.
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Peanuts

2011-11-20T08:37:00.001-08:00

Peanuts. Peanuts contain the same amount of nutrients as strawberries. They are good source of protein, vitamin E, and niacin. Peanuts are high in the bioflavonoid "resveratrol", which is believed to help prevent the formation of arterial plaques. Studies show that peanuts can help raise good cholesterol, lower bad cholesterol, and factor in the prevention of heart disease.
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An apple a day

2011-11-19T06:21:00.001-08:00

An apple a day. Apples provide us with Vitamin C, fiber and minerals. One medium apple at about 80 calories supplies about 15% of a day's worth of vitamin C as well as plenty of fiber. Eat it with the skin on and get twice as much fiber, about four grams. From Adanac to Yellow Newton, apples provide a sweet snack with vitamins and minerals.
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Breakfast

2011-11-17T15:08:00.001-08:00

Breakfast. A recent Harvard Medical School study re-enforced the notion of breakfast being the most important meal of the day. The study found people who ate breakfast every day were a third less likely to be obese compared to those who skipped the meal and were half as likely to have blood-sugar problems. The researchers believe eating first thing in the morning helps regulate appetite and energy.
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Health clubs

2011-11-16T15:48:00.001-08:00

Health clubs. The health club industry in the U.S. is a $16 billion industry, according to the International Health, Racquet and Sports Club Association, a national health and fitness trade group. There a nearly 30,000 health clubs in the United States with over 40 million members. Since 1987, the growth in numbers of health clubs and members in the United States has more than doubled.
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The Great American Smokeout

2011-11-15T16:37:00.001-08:00

The Great American Smokeout. The first Great American Smokeout was held on November 15, 1977. The annual Smokeout event is intended to get smokers to quit for a day, taking the first step toward quitting all together. This event is credited with some of the dramatic changes toward tobacco promotion and tobacco use over the past thirty years.
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Anorexia

2011-11-14T19:32:00.001-08:00

Anorexia. Anorexia nervosa is a complex psychological and physical eating disorder mainly affecting young people. Anorexics have an intense fear of gaining weight and severely limit the amount of food they eat. Experts suggest this condition may be due to a mix of family history, social factors, and personality traits. With treatment, a person with anorexia can return to and stay at a healthy weight.
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Low cholesterol

2011-11-13T08:19:00.001-08:00

Low cholesterol. Some food products are marketed and sold as “low in cholesterol.” The Food and Drug Administration defines the term "low cholesterol" as food having less than 20 mg of cholesterol and two grams or less of saturated fat per serving.
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Health insurance

2011-11-12T13:09:00.001-08:00

Health insurance. A record number of Americans are without health insurance, according to recent U.S. Census Bureau statistics. Recent figures count about 47 million Americans without health insurance coverage, or about 15.8 percent of the U.S. population. According to the report, some of the trend can be explained by employers curtailing coverage or making it too costly for lower income workers to afford.
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Smoking

2011-11-11T16:29:00.001-08:00

Smoking. A number of companies are requiring employees who use tobacco to pay higher health insurance premiums, hoping that will motivate them to stop smoking, according to a published USA Today article. A benefits survey of 950 US-based employers showed at least 41% used some form of financial incentives or penalties in their health care plans.
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Protein

2011-11-10T17:39:00.001-08:00

Protein. Our bodies need protein for good health. Protein is a nutrient made up of essential and nonessential amino acids. It helps maintain and replace body tissue, creates red blood cells and manufactures antibodies that fight infection and disease. Protein is found in meat, eggs and dairy products.
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San Francisco

2011-11-09T18:48:00.001-08:00

San Francisco. The city by the bay ranked highest among all U.S. cities in terms of men's longevity and health according to a study compiled by Men’s Health magazine. The magazine based the city's rank on calculated death rates for heart disease, stroke, and cancer, exercise frequency and body weight, smoking habits and higher education.
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Anaerobic threshold

2011-11-08T03:10:00.001-08:00

Anaerobic threshold. Muscles burn energy in two ways, aerobically (with oxygen) and anaerobically (without oxygen). Your body's anaerobic threshold represents the point at which you begin working your muscles without oxygen, usually in response to bursts in activity such as a fast sprint. Anaerobic threshold varies but is generally lower for less active people versus more active people.
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Fitness failure

2011-11-06T08:03:00.001-08:00

Fitness failure. Surveys have shown that more than half of all new exercisers quit their program within the first six months. Adopt the following methods to avoid fitness failure: set a series of realistic short-term goals; include exercise and diet variety; workout with a partner; and develop a backup plan.
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Overeating

2011-11-05T07:57:00.001-07:00

Overeating. A recent study conducted at Sam Houston State University found that people tend to overeat when eating with others versus eating alone. The study tracked five hundred participants and found those eating with one other person ate 44% more on average. Those eating with a group of twelve ate 76% more than when eating alone.
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Heart beats

2011-11-04T18:11:00.001-07:00

Heart beats. A normal heart beat rate for a human falls within the range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. People in excellent condition may have heart rates as low as 40, as a well-conditioned heart does not need to work as hard to circulate blood. Heart rates above 100 may be a sign of heart disease, infection or arthritis.
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Healthy states

2011-11-03T16:50:00.001-07:00

Healthy states. Minnesota is the healthiest state in America, according to the most recent United Health Foundation health study. The study ranked the health of each U.S. state based on twelve health factors, such as smoking, obesity and health insurance coverage. The states of Vermont, New Hampshire and Hawaii were also top health performers.
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National Diabetes Awareness Month

2011-11-02T14:56:00.001-07:00

November. November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. The American Diabetes Association estimates that about 41 million Americans, age 40 to 74, are pre-diabetes, and that many others are and do not realize it. The physical impact during pre-diabetes is damage to the heart and circulatory system. Diet and exercise are the keys to diabetes prevention.
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November

2011-11-01T16:18:00.001-07:00

November. Freshly picked fruits and vegetables provide more nutrients and more flavor than canned or stored fruits and vegetables, and usually cost less as well. Try adding one or more of the following fruits or vegetables that are ripe and at their natural peak during the month of November: beets, bosc pears, cranberries, rutabagas, sweet potatoes and yams.
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Aging population

2011-10-31T14:48:00.001-07:00

Aging population. Since 1900, the percentage of Americans 65 and over has more than tripled, increasing from 3.1 million to 34.5 million. According to the World Health Network, by the year 2025, there will be more than 50 million older Americans. Seniors over 65 will outnumber teenagers by more than two to one.
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Walking neighbors

2011-10-30T08:06:00.001-07:00

Walking neighbors. Some researchers believe neighborhoods with pedestrian-friendly amenities such as sidewalks and walking and running trails make healthier residents. University of BC researcher Lawrence Frank is among a group of scientists who have shown that people who live in walkable neighborhoods tend to weigh less than people who live in more isolated and car-dependent areas.
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Stress city

2011-10-29T05:23:00.001-07:00

Stress city. Tacoma, Washington has the distinction of being the most stressful city in the United States. A recent study from Sperling's Best Places ranked Tacoma first based on nine factors associated with stress: unemployment rate, divorce rate, commute time, violent and property crime rates, suicide rate, alcohol consumption, self-reported "poor mental health," and the number of cloudy days.
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Health

2011-10-28T14:02:00.001-07:00

Health. Health magazine provides its readers with credible, useful, and up-to-date information on how to live healthier, happier lives. The magazine covers well-being, fitness, nutrition, and beauty. Its real-world perspective helps readers make sense of conflicting news, trends, and studies. The magazine was established in 1987 and has more than 6 million readers. Learn more at Health.com.
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Hernia

2011-10-27T15:39:00.001-07:00

Hernia. A hernia is an opening or weakness in the wall of a muscle, tissue, or membrane that normally holds an organ in place. If the opening or weakness is large enough, a portion of the organ may be able to poke through it. Hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. They occur more frequently in the abdomen, groin and belly button area.
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Active.com

2011-10-26T16:20:00.001-07:00

Active.com. Active.com is an online community for people who want to participate in activities about which they are passionate. Millions of active individuals visit the site each month to search and register for races, team sports and recreational activities; interact with others who have similar interests; start training programs; and access nutrition, fitness and training tips.
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Body arches

2011-10-25T14:54:00.001-07:00

Body arches. This exercise works the back and buttocks. Start by lying face down, legs straight and arms extended out straight in front of your head. Using your back, slowly lift your arms and legs toward the ceiling, hold for twenty seconds, and lower to the start position for one repetition of this exercise.
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Energy cycle

2011-10-24T15:16:00.001-07:00

Energy cycle. Every person has a daily energy cycle. For most, energy is low after waking up in the morning, peaks in late morning to early afternoon, drops in late afternoon, rises again in the early evening and is lowest just before bedtime. Plan around your body's energy cycle. Take on exercise or more difficult tasks during high energy times while resting when your energy is low.
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Advanced plank

2011-10-23T08:15:00.001-07:00

Advanced plank. This version of the plank exercise works the upper abs. Start this exercise lying face down with your arms stretched out in front and your toes touching the mat. Lift your body using just your forearms, abdomen and toes. Hold this position for three seconds and rest to the floor to complete one repetition.
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Orange juice

2011-10-22T03:02:00.001-07:00

Orange juice. Orange juice contains more than 60 phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are natural bioactive compounds that work together with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to promote good health by protecting our cells. Research has shown that antioxidants in phytonutrients help support a healthy cardiovascular system and immune system.
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Soup is good food

2011-10-20T08:13:00.001-07:00

Soup is good food. Eating a soup can cut your calorie intake by about 20%, according to a recent Penn State study published in Men's Health magazine. Soup eaters ate an average of 135 fewer calories when they started their meal with a 150 calorie serving of vegetable soup. Researchers believe the soup forces your body to slow down allowing it to recognize it is becoming full.
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Popcorn

2011-10-19T03:31:00.001-07:00

Popcorn. Popcorn is a fun, healthy snack that is a convenient way for you to eat more whole grains. Whole grains provide antioxidants, Vitamin B, fiber, carbohydrates, proteins and minerals. Dietary Guidelines recommend at least three daily servings of whole-grain foods. Three cups of popped corn provide one serving of whole grains.
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Athletic shoes

2011-10-18T04:03:00.001-07:00

The origin of the modern athletic shoe dates back to the late 18th century when people wore rubber soled shoes called pimsolls. In 1915, Converse made the first athletic shoes for tennis. Two years later they designed the first basketball shoe. The U.S. Rubber company began selling "sneakers" in 1917, a name the company coined from the quiet walk of the shoe.
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Bread

2011-10-17T05:39:00.001-07:00

Bread. The diet editors at iVillage.com suggest the following tips for selecting the healthiest breads. Look for whole grain or whole wheat on the label. The first ingredient listed for the bread should include the word “whole”. Avoid products that are “made with whole grains”. If you are looking to reduce your calorie intake, check the bread’s serving size.
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Marriage penalty

2011-10-16T06:50:00.001-07:00

Marriage penalty. Married men and women out gained their single counterparts by 6 to 9 pounds over five years, according to a recent study by the Obesity Society, a group of weight-loss scientists and professionals. To avoid post honeymoon weight gain, try to keep old habits, schedule regular exercise, and eat lighter fare over heavy family style meals.
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Healthy fast food

2011-10-15T07:53:00.001-07:00

Healthy fast food. The editors at HelpGuide.org suggest the following menu choices as the healthiest alternatives when eating fast food: grilled chicken or fish sandwich, baked potato with vegetables, salad with low-fat dressing, single hamburger, deli sandwich on wheat bread or pita, and wraps on whole wheat tortilla.
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Floral healing

2011-10-14T03:55:00.001-07:00

Floral healing. In 1930, English scientist Edward Bach proposed that sickness resulted from imbalances in the soul. To restore spiritual and physical health, Bach developed floral and flower-infused essences designed to quell emotions such as stress, despair, anxiety and apathy. The floral medicine was taken as drops under the tongue or added to a bath.
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High-Fructose Corn Syrup

2011-10-13T03:09:00.001-07:00

HFCS. High-Fructose Corn Syrup is a food additive that was developed over 30 years ago. It is derived from corn and is many times cheaper and sweeter than simple sugar. Unlike regular sugar, HFCS does not quench the body's appetite, thus allowing people to drink a two-liter bottle of soda without feeling "full". The average American consumes sixty-two pounds of HFCS each year.
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Emotional eating

2011-10-12T03:54:00.001-07:00

Emotional eating. A common issue among dieters is emotional eating. This eating occurs as a way to suppress or soothe negative emotions, such as stress, anger, anxiety, boredom, sadness and loneliness. To deter emotional eating, give yourself time to gain control before reaching for food. If you fail, be persistent and try again next time.
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Health care

2011-10-11T03:54:00.001-07:00

Health care. U.S. employers pay significantly higher employee health care costs relative to all other industrialized nations. Employers are doing two main things to address higher health care costs. They are reducing or eliminating health care costs through changes in coverage levels or eligibility and/or they are reducing the number of individuals covered through layoffs or outsourcing.
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Muscle

2011-10-10T04:37:00.001-07:00

Muscle. Our bodies are built to naturally retain only the necessary amount of muscle mass it needs to perform on a daily basis. Bodies add muscle reluctantly and shed it rather easily. Adding and maintaining body muscle requires added muscle building exercise and up to fifty calories a day per extra pound of added muscle mass.
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Reps and sets

2011-10-09T08:07:00.001-07:00

Reps and sets. Exercise is a physical activity that develops or maintains fitness and health. A repetition is the number of times a motion for an exercise is completed, for example, one pushup. An exercise set is the number of times an exercise repetition is performed, for example, a set of ten pushups.
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Basal Metabolic Rate

2011-10-08T08:11:00.001-07:00

BMR. Basal Metabolic Rate measures the minimum calories necessary to sustain life in a resting individual. Calories are burned by bodily processes such as respiration, the pumping of blood around the body and maintenance of body temperature. BMR can be responsible for burning up to 70% of a person’s total calories expended.
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Aerobics

2011-10-07T03:16:00.001-07:00

Aerobics. In that late 1960s, Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper developed a form of exercise to monitor astronauts for pulse rate and oxygen consumption. He called his new excise regimen "aerobics". The new exercise method was also found to help prevent coronary artery disease. Aerobics spawned different forms, such as dance aerobics, step aerobics and water aerobics.
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Cancer

2011-10-06T04:02:00.001-07:00

Cancer. Nearly half of all cancer deaths are related to obesity or the use of tobacco. The latest report from The President's Cancer Panel suggests that many instances of cancer could be prevented by exercising, eating right, maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking. The report cited challenges in what motivates people to live a healthier lifestyle.
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Diabetes

2011-10-05T04:03:00.001-07:00

Diabetes. Insulin is needed to convert sugar, starches and other foods into energy used by our bodies. Diabetes is present when the body fails to produce the insulin or becomes insulin resistant. Diabetes can lead to blindness, heart and blood vessel disease, stroke, kidney failure, amputations, and nerve damage. Prevent diabetes through proper nutrition and regular exercise.
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Audio trainer

2011-10-04T04:03:00.001-07:00

Audio trainer. People with busy schedules or those looking for further motivation are turning to audio workouts. Audio workouts are played on iPods and MP3 players. They feature celebrity trainers that coach you with everything from stretching to marathons. Download digital workouts from itrain.com, cardiocoach.com and beitfit.com.
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Organic foods

2011-10-03T04:18:00.001-07:00

Organic foods. Nearly 25% of Americans purchase organic foods once a week, up from 17% in 2000. The National Organic Program defines organic crops as those grown without pesticides, artificial fertilizers, and processed without ionizing radiation or food additives. Organic meats come from animals raised without antibiotics and without the use of growth hormones.
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Workplace stress

2011-10-02T07:52:00.001-07:00

Workplace stress. There are ways to prepare for handling workplace stress. Stay healthier by eating more fruits and vegetables; make friends that you can vent and discuss your stress issues; take necessary breaks from your work; choose your workplace battles wisely; plan and prioritize your work with to-do lists and realistic due dates.
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October fruits and vegitables

2011-10-01T07:17:00.001-07:00

October. Freshly picked fruits and vegetables provide more nutrients and more flavor than canned or stored fruits and vegetables, and usually cost less as well. Try adding one or more of the following fruits or vegetables that are ripe and at their natural peak during the month of October: acorn squash, parsnips, persimmons, pomegranates, pumpkins and radishes.
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Video workout

2011-09-30T05:14:00.001-07:00

Video workout. In an effort to broaden the appeal of working out, some fitness centers are incorporating video game consoles, such as Nintendo Wii, with other traditional workout methods. Customers use Wii to punch, run and jump with the system’s movement-sensitive controller. Estimates say one session of Wii boxing, tennis or bowling equates to going for a brisk walk and can burn up to 125 calories.
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Healthy gift

2011-09-29T04:07:00.001-07:00

Healthy gift. A great gift for those who enjoy fitness and gadgets is the Timex Bodylink System. The Bodylink System is four devices in one: a global positioning system for calculating distance and pace, a heart rate monitor, a data recorder, and a watch. All saved data from the BodyLink can be uploaded to a personal computer.
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Fitness Magazine

2011-09-28T04:02:00.001-07:00

Fitness Magazine. Fitness Magazine is dedicated to helping its readers learn more about exercise, health, and nutrition. The magazine provides expert advice on topics such as healthy eating, optimizing your workout routine, and managing stress, as well as comprehensive reports on health issues such as breast cancer, asthma, and heart disease. Learn more at FitnessMagazine.com.
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Bursitis

2011-09-27T03:11:00.001-07:00

Bursitis. Bursitis is joint pain that occurs from repeated use of a particular joint or trauma from a direct hit. Our joints each have a fluid sac called a bursa that provides cushioning for movement and pressure. If a bursa becomes irritated either by a direct hit or from repeating the same movement, bursitis can occur. The most common areas for bursitis are the elbow, knee, hip and ankle.
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KidsHealth.org

2011-09-26T04:27:00.001-07:00

KidsHealth.org. KidsHealth is a popular website providing doctor-approved health information about children from before birth through adolescence. The award-winning site provides families with accurate, up-to-date, and jargon-free health information they can use. KidsHealth has been on the Web since 1995. More than 500,000 visitors access KidsHealth on a daily basis.
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Pushups

2011-09-25T08:15:00.001-07:00

Pushups. This classic exercise works the chest, shoulders and triceps. Start by lying face down on the floor. Keeping your body straight, look straight ahead and lift your body with your toes and the palms of your hands. Lower your chest, touch the floor while bending your arms, and raise back up to the start position. Do eight to ten pushups for one set and work up as desired.
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Side leg raise

2011-09-24T05:55:00.001-07:00

Side leg raise. This exercise works the buttocks. Start by lying on your side with your body straight and raise the top leg about 1 foot off the floor. Slowly raise your lower leg to meet the top leg, hold for two seconds and return to the floor. Each leg lift from the floor is one repetition.
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Phytochemicals

2011-09-23T04:11:00.001-07:00

Phytochemicals. The stimulating colors and flavors in fruits and vegetables result from thousands of phytochemicals found in them. These compounds help prevent diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, and may also prevent cancer and boost the immune system. Phytochemicals are found in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, soy, herbs, seeds, and green tea.
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Orthorexia nervosa

2011-09-22T04:00:00.001-07:00

Orthorexia nervosa. Orthorexia, a recent term coined by Dr. Steven Bratman, refers to the obsession with eating healthfully. Orthorexics spend excessive amounts of time thinking about, planning and preparing healthy meals and snacks. Orthorexia is different than anorexia or bulimia. In those disorders people are focused on the quantity of food, while orthorexics are strictly focused on the quality.
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Cardio Karaticise

2011-09-21T04:02:00.001-07:00

Cardio Karaticise. Cardio Karaticise is a relatively new exercise program that utilizes soft fluid motions of ancient Mandarin Kung Fu to provide gentle exercise and a great cardio workout. Cardio Karaticise gives an intense workout without stressing the joints and back. Even those that are severely overweight or those that need to protect their knees and back are able to do Cardio Karaticise.
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Mindless eating

2011-09-20T04:02:00.001-07:00

Mindless eating. Noted nutrition author Professor Brian Wansink's recent book "Mindless Eating: Why we eat more than we think" spells out a multitude of factors why we overeat. Wansink suggests our kitchens play a large role. Factors such as bright lights, TVs, see-through containers, platter-sized plates, and snacks in easy-to-grab places put us at risk of eating much more than necessary.
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Healthy weight gain

2011-09-19T04:06:00.001-07:00

Healthy weight gain. There are about 45 million underweight Americans. Older adults often lose weight due to less appetite. People coming off a serious illness lose weight. Others are underweight by nature. Healthy steps to gain weight include: eat 500 more calories a day; snack throughout the day; eat healthy, high-calorie foods; eat larger portions at mealtime; eat more healthy fats.
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Calories and pounds

2011-09-18T07:58:00.001-07:00

Calories and pounds. It takes about twenty walking steps to burn one calorie. To burn one pound, you need to burn 3,500 more calories than your body consumes over a given period.
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Fortified foods

2011-09-17T05:06:00.001-07:00

Fortified foods. Fortified foods are food products to which extra nutrients have been added. Foods are fortified for three main reasons: to replace nutrients lost during processing and storage; to compensate for missing nutrients; and to further enrich existing nutrients. Common fortified foods include orange juice, milk, salt and breakfast cereal.
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The hamstring

2011-09-16T03:52:00.001-07:00

The hamstring. The big group of muscles and tendons in the back of the thigh are called hamstrings. Hamstrings function by pulling the leg backward and by propelling the body forward while walking or running. Hamstring injuries are common. Treatment of a hamstring injury calls for “rice”: rest, ice, compression and elevation.
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Fast food nation

2011-09-15T04:30:00.001-07:00

Fast food nation. America has been dubiously labeled the "fast food nation". Everyday, one out of four Americans (about 75 million people) eats a fast food meal. Most choose fast foods for the convenience as well as the expense. Fast food restaurants offer the fastest, cheapest, and usually least nutritious, dining alternative.
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Atkins diet

2011-09-14T04:01:00.001-07:00

Atkins diet. Introduced by Dr. Robert C. Atkins, this diet is a high-protein, high-fat, low-carbohydrate plan that allows for unrestricted amounts of meat, cheese and eggs while restricting carbohydrates, such as sugar, bread, pasta, milk, fruits and vegetables. Atkins dieters use stored fat for energy versus burning glucose from carbohydrate digestion. Burning fat for energy causes weight loss.
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FDA definition of healthy

2011-09-13T03:47:00.001-07:00

Healthy. For food servings, the Food and Drug Administration defines the term "healthy" as having decreased fat, saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol and at least ten percent of the daily values of vitamins A and C, iron, protein, calcium and fiber.
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Pulled muscle

2011-09-12T05:40:00.001-07:00

Pulled muscle. The most common sports-related injury is a pulled muscle. A muscle pulls when a sudden, severe force is applied to the muscle and the fibers are stretched beyond their capacity. It is a muscle pull if only some of the fibers tear. If most of the fibers tear, it is a muscle tear. Prevent muscle pulls by stretching before rigorous activity and work your muscles on a regular basis.
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Sleep

2011-09-11T07:15:00.001-07:00

Sleep. Sleep experts say about ten percent of us are "morning people", twenty percent are "night owls", and the rest are somewhere in between. Some tips to become a morning person include: accommodate to how much sleep you require, get sunlight exposure as soon as you wake up, and adopt a consistent sleep schedule.
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Ballistic stretching

2011-09-10T03:49:00.001-07:00

Ballistic stretching. Most fitness experts advise against ballistic stretching exercises for amateur athletes. Ballistic stretching involves repetitive swinging or bouncing motions during the stretch. The vigorous nature of ballistic stretching is only suitable for conditioned athletes such as gymnasts and martial arts athletes.
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Ectomorphic

2011-09-09T03:26:00.001-07:00

Ectomorphic. Ectomorphic refers to one of three body classes defined according to different digestive, muscular, and tissue types. Those in the Ectomorphic class are characterized by a light build and slight muscular development. The other two classes are endomorphic and mesomorphic.
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Reiki

2011-09-08T04:00:00.001-07:00

Reiki. Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is an ancient hands-on technique for stress reduction and relaxation that aims to promote the body’s innate healing abilities. Reiki methods are designed to integrate and balance one's physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual centers in order to reduce illness and provide speedier recovery.
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