Showing posts with label avoid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label avoid. Show all posts

Saturday, March 21, 2015

Feeling Sleepy after Lunch How to Avoid it especially in Office

Have you ever felt sleep in your office especially after Lunch ? I felt it several times. Sometime i sip a cup of coffee to feel awake. I often wondered if i was the only one feeling sleepy or there is some one else also. Sometimes i found some of my colleagues saying the same thing. Then i found that its a common thing to feel sleepy after having lunch. But what causes it. Because if you know the reason of feeling sleepy after lunch then you can avoid that thing especially in office, because its really awkward to yawn at your office desk.

Feeling Sleepy after Lunch


There are several reasons behind feeling sleepiness after lunch. But most common is heavy lunch.
Most Common Reasons:
  • If you are having heavy lunch then your digestive system demands more blood, so that it can get energy to digest the food. If causes lack of blood supply to your brain, which causes feeling sleepy after lunch.
  • Insufficient Sleep: Insufficient sleep during night can also make you sleepy after lunch. Some of us watch late night TV shows and need to wake up early to go to work. If you are in 20s and have a healthy body then it is the most common reason for feeling sleepy.

There may be some other reasons as well. Some of them are related to what you are eating and some of them are related to some diseases.
  • Sugary Food: Sugary Food increases the blood sugar levels. It makes your pancreas to release insulin to control blood sugar. Insulin triggers tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which makes you feeling sleepy. So avoid sugary food in lunch.
  • If you are feeling excessive sleepiness after lunch then you may be suffering from medical conditions. It may include iron deficiency, mineral deficiency, insulin resistance or Diabetes, hypoglycemia or some other disease. Doctor can tell it better. So if its excessive sleepiness then consult a doctor.

How you can avoid feeling sleepiness after Lunch

  • Avoid Overeating
  • Avoid Food rich in sugar
  • Avoid Fast Food, as its rich in sugar, fat and carbohydrate. Try to have protein rich diet.
  • Exercise regularly in the morning
  • Have a good breakfast, so that you can eat less during lunch and maintain energy level
  • Consult a doctor if you are feeling that you are feeling excessive sleepiness.

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Sunday, March 8, 2015

Why You Should Avoid Using HCG for Weight Loss






What is HCG? 

HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin is a protein-based hormone that supports the normal development of an egg in a womans ovary, and stimulates the release of the egg during ovulation. HCG is used to cause ovulation and to treat infertility in women, and to increase sperm count in men. HCG is also used in young boys when their testicles have not dropped down into the scrotum normally. This can be caused by a pituitary gland disorder.

HCG for Weight Loss… More recently, HCG has been in the news as a weight loss “aid.” Ads claim it “targets the fat” and “reduces cravings.” However, HCG providers prescribe a 500-calorie diet, too. A very-low-calorie-diet (defined as 800 cal/day or lower) alone would result in significant weight loss. However, there are risks associated with a VLCD, and medical monitoring is suggested as a standard of medical care. The American Society of Bariatric Physicians Position Statement on the use of VLCDs is an informative resource. http://www.asbp.org



Why do people claim they are not hungry? 

The decrease in hunger emphasized in HCG ads is likely attributed to the dietary emphasis on higher protein intake and/or carbohydrate restriction resulting in ketosis. These dietary regimens are associated with diminished hunger sensation. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18175736


What about HCG drops? 

HCG is sold as drops to be absorbed “under the tongue” or sublingually. There is a “ceiling” with regard to the size of a molecule that can be absorbed orally, and that is approximately 1500 daltons, a measure for molecular weight. HCG’s molecular weight is approximately 30,000 daltons—about six times larger than insulin, which, by the way, has to be injected. Neither insulin nor HCG can be absorbed orally.

What about homeopathic or chiroHCG sold by chiropractors? 

Homeopathy is based the belief that disease symptoms can be cured by small doses of substances which produce similar symptoms in healthy people. All HCG drop formulations are inert, or having no pharmacological action, due to high molecular weight. Moreover, it is the specific shape and structure of a molecule on which the hormone’s action depends. In other words, it has to fit like a “key into a lock” or nothing happens. Therefore, it would be impossible to “take a small dose” or “a segment” of a hormone and expect to cause any kind of biological action.

What if I swallow HCG? 

Even IF drop formulations actually contained HCG, the protein molecule would pass into the stomach where it would be broken down into small peptides and amino acids by gastric acid—just like your dinner portion of chicken—again, no potential for biological action!

What about HCG injections? 

HCG can be given by injection by a licensed physician under “off-label” use. However, doing so is not risk free. This medicine can increase chances of a multiple pregnancy. Some women using this medicine have developed a condition called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), especially after the first treatment cycle. You should NOT use this medicine if you are at risk for a hormone-related cancer such as tumor of the breast, ovary, uterus, prostate, hypothalamus, or pituitary gland.

What is the FDA’s stance on HCG? 

Since 1975, the FDA has considered the use of HCG for weight loss to be fraudulent and requires labels for HCG to state: HCG HAS NO KNOWN EFFECT ON FAT MOBILIZATION, APPETITE OR SENSE OF HUNGER, OR BODY FAT DISTRIBUTION. HCG HAS NOT BEEN DEMONSTRATED TO BE EFFECTIVE ADJUNCTIVE THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF OBESITY. THERE IS NO SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE THAT IT INCREASES WEIGHT LOSS BEYOND THAT RESULTING FROM CALORIC RESTRICTION, THAT IT CAUSES A MORE ATTRACTIVE OR “NORMAL” DISTRIBUTION OF FAT, OR THAT IT DECREASES THE HUNGER AND DISCOMFORT ASSOCIATED WITH CALORIE-RESTRICTED DIETS.

Has the Federal Trade Commission taken action? 

In 1976, the FTC ordered the Simeon Management Corporation, Simeon Weight Clinics Foundation, Bariatrics Management Corporation, C.M. Norcal, Inc., and HCG Weight Clinics Foundation and their officers to stop claiming that their HCG-based programs were safe, effective, and/or approved by the FDA for weight-control. Although the order did not stop the clinics from using HCG, it required that patients who contract for the treatment be informed in writing that:
THESE WEIGHT REDUCTION TREATMENTS INCLUDE THE INJECTION OF HCG, A DRUG WHICH HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION AS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE IN THE TREATMENT OF OBESITY OR WEIGHT CONTROL. THERE IS NO SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE THAT HCG INCREASES WEIGHT LOSS BEYOND THAT RESULTING FROM CALORIC RESTRICTION, THAT IT CAUSES A MORE ATTRACTIVE OR "NORMAL" DISTRIBUTION OF FAT, OR THAT IT DECREASES THE HUNGER AND DISCOMFORT ASSOCIATED WITH CALORIE-RESTRICTIVE DIETS.

What is the opinion of physicians trained in obesity management? 

In 2009, the American Society of Bariatric Physicians issued a position statement which stated:

Numerous clinical trials have shown HCG to be ineffectual in producing weight loss. HCG injections can induce a slight increase in muscle mass in androgen-deficient males. The diet used in the Simeons method provides a lower protein intake than is advisable in view of current knowledge and practice. There are few medical literature reports favorable to the Simeons method; the overwhelming majority of medical reports are critical of it. Physicians employing either the HCG or the diet recommended by Simeons may expose themselves to criticism from other physicians, from insurers, or from government bodies. http://www.asbp.org/resources/uploads/files/HCG%20Position%20Statement.pdf


What have the studies on HCG revealed? 

A meta-analysis of eight controlled and 16 uncontrolled trials that measured the effect of HCG in the treatment of obesity shows no benefit to using HCG. It was concluded that there is no scientific evidence that HCG is effective in the treatment of obesity; it does not bring about weight-loss of fat-redistribution, nor does it reduce hunger or induce a feeling of well-being.

Source: http://www.jcmg.org/jcmg.nsf/web/Why-You-Should-Avoid-Using-HCG-for-Weight-Loss
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Saturday, March 7, 2015

Vegan Sugar Free Gluten Free Palisades Peach Crisp Or Make It With Nectarines To Avoid Peeling!

This warm and delicious peach crisp makes the perfect dessert! And its less than 150 calories per serving!

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My Visit to Grand Junction, Colorado
My good friend, Dr. Christine Gallagher, who is a Natural Health Practitioner at Journey4Wellness, invited us to visit her and her family in Grand Junction, Colorado. Doug and I had never been there so we were excited to visit. They live right at the base of the Colorado National Monument which is one of the most beautiful sites Ive ever seen. 
Christine practices a modality that is quite interesting and amazing. Its called Acutonics® which is similar to acupuncture but instead of using needles, she uses special tuning forks! Its very cool. 


Me (left) and Dr. Christine Gallagher during my Colorado visit

"Coke Ovens" - dome-shaped sandstone monoliths in the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction, Colorado

Colorado Grows Amazing Peaches!
Christine introduced me to Palisades peaches, one of the best tasting peaches Ive ever had! Since she had a big box of them, and Doug and I LOVE crisp, we made the family Palisades peach crisp several times during our visit. Her son is allergic to sugar (a mixed blessing) so we made a sugar free version using stevia. We realized that peaches, like most fruit, is so sweet, sugar is entirely unnecessary!
When we got home, we made it again only this time we used nectarines, instead of peaches, and gluten free flour. Since nectarines have such thin skin, we decided not to peel them. It came out great! So if you arent in the mood to peel peaches, try making nectarine crisp! The gluten free flour also worked very well so this makes a good gluten free dessert if you buy gluten free oats. Oats are naturally gluten free but sometimes they can get contaminated in the processing plant. If you have celiac or are especially intolerant to gluten or wheat, buy "certified" gluten free oats

Palisades peaches are amazing!

Try making the crisp with sliced nectarines. If they have a thin skin, there is no need to peel them. A real time saver!
Another wonderful peach recipe is Raw Vegan Peach and Blueberry Crisp 

Peach (or Nectarine) Crisp
Vegan, Sugar Free, Gluten Free
[makes 8 servings]

For the topping
3/4 cup (gluten free) rolled oats
1/2 cup (gluten free) all purpose flour
3 packets Sweet Leaf stevia
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 tablespoons Earth Balance buttery spread
For the fruit
7 cups thinly sliced, (about 9) peeled peaches or un-peeled nectarines
1 - 2 teaspoons fresh fruit protector or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 packet Sweet Leaf stevia
1/4 t cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees C and take out a 7" x 11" or 8" x 8" baking pan. 
Make the topping by mixing all topping ingredients with a fork until well blended and crumbly. Set aside.
Place all fruit in baking pan and stir in fruit protector (or lemon juice), stevia and cinnamon.
Spread the topping evenly over the fruit and bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from oven, let sit for 15 minutes and serve. Top with dairy free, vanilla ice cream or just eat as is!

Per serving: 132.2 calories, 4.1 g fat, 1.0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 2.7 g protein, 24.1 g carbohydrates, 3.3 g dietary fiber and 26.7 mg sodium.
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Best Raw Vegan Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian Sources of Iron How to Help Avoid Iron Deficiency Anemia and Toxicity



Why Iron is Important
The World Health Organization claims that iron deficiency is the number one nutritional disease in the world affecting 30% of the population. Although many of the 2 billion affected are women and children in third world countries, iron deficiency is also prevalent in industrialized countries. Children, young girls and women of childbearing age are most “at risk” in the United States.

The most important use of iron in our bodies is to form hemoglobin – a molecule in our red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout our system. If there is not enough iron in your diet, you run the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, brittle nails, irritability, sore tongue, paleness of the skin, dizziness, weight loss and unusual food cravings.

Heme and Non-Heme Iron
Heme iron is the most easily absorbed form and only comes from animal products. Non-heme iron comes from plants and animal products. Plant sources contain 100% non-heme iron and animal products contain 40% heme and 60% non-heme iron. Because non-heme iron is less easily absorbed, vegetarians have a higher Recommended Daily Allowance of this nutrient. Even so, iron is so prevalent in the plant kingdom, with dietary care, vegetarians are no more at risk for iron deficiency than meat eaters.

Factors that Reduce Iron Absorption
Phytates, commonly found in nuts, beans and grains, can reduce the absorption of iron. Soaking or sprouting these foods, which is commonly done in the raw food community, can reduce phytic acid making the iron more bio-available. If buying bread or cereal, choose “sprouted” grain when available.
Tannins also decrease the absorption of iron and are found in black tea, coffee and wine. You may want to have that glass of wine before your iron-rich meal and skip the tea and coffee until much later.
Calcium should also be avoided when trying to optimize iron absorption. Calcium supplements should be taken several hours before eating an iron rich meal and calcium rich beverages such as milk should also be avoided during the meal.
Low stomach acid and antacids reduce iron absorption.
Phosphates in soft drinks can also reduce absorption of this important mineral. Here is one more reason not to drink soda with a meal (or ever, actually).

Factors that Enhance Iron Absorption
Vitamin C significantly enhances the absorption of non-heme iron. Citrus fruits, being high in vitamin C, improve iron absorption. When vegans and vegetarians eat many vitamin C rich fruits and vegetables, their absorption of non-heme iron can equal the absorption of heme iron by meat eaters. High vitamin C foods include: guava, kiwi, papaya, berries, citrus, orange juice, peppers, spinach, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and greens to name a few. Don’t forget, this vitamin is very heat sensitive, so it’s always better to eat the fruits and vegetables raw or cook them “crisp tender”.
Stomach acid also enhances absorption.

Daily Requirements for Non-Vegetarians
Adult men and post-menopausal women: 8 mg
Women of childbearing age: 18 mg
Pregnant women: 27 mg
Lactating women: 9 to 10 mg

Daily Requirements for Vegetarians
Adult men and post-menopausal women: 14 mg
Women of childbearing age: 33 mg
Pregnant vegetarian women: 48.6 mg

Can you get Too Much Iron?
The upper limit for iron is 45 mg a day which isn’t difficult to reach if your multi has iron, you cook with cast iron cookware and you eat fortified foods such as Total or Multigrain Cheerios. Excess iron has been known to cause constipation and GI distress. Iron toxicity symptoms include fatigue, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, weight loss, dizziness, and a gray hue to the skin. A hypothesis exists that suggests excess stored iron may lead to heart disease in men and post-menopausal women. Younger women, who regularly decrease their iron store during menstruation, enjoy a lower rate of heart disease. This would explain why women’s rate of cardiovascular disease after menopause increases. Many health professionals now suggest that adults avoid iron supplementation unless they are anemic. Many multi-vitamins are available "without iron".

Raw Food Vegan Sources of Iron: (source, NutritionData.com)
Raw Vegetables (Per 1 cup serving)
Asparagus, 2.9 mg
Mustard spinach, 2.3 mg
Leeks, 1.9 mg
Kale, 1.1 mg
Dandelion greens, 1.7 mg
Spring onions, 1.5 mg
Fruits (Per ½ cup serving or as noted)
Dried Apricots, 3.8 mg
Dried Peaches, 3.2 mg
Dried currants, 2.3 mg
Sun dried tomatoes, 2.5 mg
Avocado (1 cup pureed), 1.4 mg
Raw Nuts and Seeds (Per 1 ounce serving or as noted)
Pumpkin and squash seeds, 4.3 mg
Sesame seeds, 4.1 mg
Organic raw Tahini (1 tablespoon), 3.0 mg**
Cashew nuts, 1.9 mg
Pine nuts, 1.6 mg
Flax seeds, 1.6 mg
Hemp seeds, 1.3 mg
Grains
Unfortunately, very little data exists on raw, sprouted grains.
Crude rice bran (2 tablespoons) 2.7 mg
Sprouted wheat (1/2 cup) 1.2 mg
Raw Beans (Per 1 cup serving)
Peanuts, 6.7 mg
Sprouted lentils, 2.5 mg
Snow peas, sugar snap peas, 2.0 mg
Other
Dried spirulina (1 tablespoon), 2 mg
Parsley (1/2 cup fresh), 1.9 mg
Cumin seed (1 teaspoon), 1.3 mg
Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon), 1.2 mg

Cooked Vegan Food Sources of Iron (Source: NutritionData.com)
Cooked Vegetables (Per 1 cup serving or as noted)
Spinach, 6.4 mg
Swiss Chard, 4.0 mg
Potato (1 large baked), 3.2 mg
Beet greens, 2.7 mg
Collards, 2.2 mg
Brussels sprouts, 1.8 mg
Turnip greens, 1.2 mg
Kale, 1.2 mg
Broccoli, 1.0 mg
Cooked Grains (Per 1 cup serving)
Kellogg’s Oat Bran Flakes, 25.2 mg
General Mills Whole Grain Total, 24 mg
Multigrain Cheerios, 18.6 mg
Spelt, 3.2 mg
Quinoa, 2.8 mg
Multigrain bread,(2 slices), 1.4 mg
Brown rice, 0.8 mg
Cooked Beans (Per 1 cup serving)
Soybeans, 8.8 mg
Lentils, 6.6 mg
Black beans, 3.6 mg
Pinto beans, 3.6 mg
Garbanzo beans, 3.2 mg
Kidney beans, 3.0 mg
Peas, 2.4 mg
Other
Blackstrap molasses (2 tablespoons), 7.2 mg**

Sources of Heme Iron (Per 3 oz. serving or as noted)
Chicken livers, simmered, 9.9 mg
Chicken, thigh meat, stewed, 1.2 mg
Beef liver, braised, 5.4 mg
Beef, lean top sirloin, 1.5 mg
Egg, hard-boiled (2 large), 1.2 mg
Pacific oysters, raw, 4.3 mg
Tuna, light, canned in water, drained, 1.3 mg
Salmon, wild Atlantic, cooked dry heat, 0.9 mg

(**) source, manufacturers information

Summary
Iron is plentiful in both the animal and plant kingdoms.

Vegans can get sufficient iron from plants by eating those high in iron and eating foods like fortified cereals. Iron absorption will increase with the consumption of foods high in vitamin C at the same meal. To optimize iron consumption, grains and beans can be soaked to lessen phytate content. Tannins, antacids and soda should be avoided and calcium supplements should not be taken at mealtime.

Raw food vegans (especially pregnant women or women of childbearing age) may have a harder time getting sufficient iron, especially if on a 100% raw food diet. If you are 80% raw or less, consider supplementing your diet with high iron foods like cooked beans and taking all of the other precautions listed above.

Men and post-menopausal women should be careful not to supplement or eat too many iron-fortified foods unless they have iron deficiency anemia.

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