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How Functional Fitness Benefits Seniors

Functional fitness is all about teaching your body to handle real-life activities. It is a way of exercising that helps your body be strong in those areas that the body needs to be strong in your everyday life. This type of fitness can benefit anyone but can benefit seniors perhaps more than others.

The Idea Of Functional Fitness For Seniors

Functional fitness involves putting your body through the paces that are necessary for everyday life. As a senior, you can lift weights or use a weight lifting machine to strengthen certain muscles of your body to the exclusion of others and may find that you are strengthening certain muscles, which leaves a deficiency in others.

Without functional fitness, you can strengthen your arms in a biceps machine but still throw out your neck when reaching for something out of your reach or throw out your back while lifting your grandchild.

Seniors especially make the mistake of exercising their arms or legs in ways that may strengthen those muscles but avoid exercising their back, for example. This can lead to back trouble that could have been avoided if you had recognized that your arms and legs are intricately connected to your back and are useless without a strong core.

As a senior, you need to use all your muscles and joints in concert with one another and not just isolating out certain muscles to the exclusion of others.

Helping Your Muscles Work Together

Many seniors make the mistake of using weight machines or free weights while at the gym. They are isolating out certain muscle groups for strengthening, strengthening some muscles more than others. They may believe that to have a good biceps bulge is a sign of good health when their triceps muscles are not exercised at all. This means that the muscles cannot work together to do the everyday lifting and stretching that needs to be done as part of your regular day.

Everyday movement is not idealized. You don't lift or move things by isolating out your muscle groups and in fact, it takes a strong back, strong legs, and strong-arm muscles to move a box or carry groceries. If you isolate out a muscle group to the exclusion of all others, you can set yourself up for injury to those muscles you have neglected.

How To Make Functional Exercise Work For You

Functional exercise is all about integration of muscle parts. It is about showing the muscles how to work together to accomplish a task rather than isolating muscle groups that may be exercised out of proportion to the rest of your muscles.

If you like rowing machines, for example, think about the posture you are in when you do that exercise. Your back is stiff and your arms are bent repeatedly with your legs doing very little. This strengthens some muscles and not others.

A better activity is to use a free weight standing up. First, you bend over and strengthen your back in picking up the weight. Then you strengthen your legs by holding the weight with your entire body. Finally, put the weight in various motions around your body so that your latissimus dorsi muscles are activated, along with your biceps and triceps muscles. Even the small muscles of your hands are strengthened by holding the weight.

All your muscles are working in concert by that simple exercise. If you repeat it on the other side of your body, the muscles of your back, sides, legs, and arms are exercised for the other side of your body and you haven't missed any muscles in the process.

This type of exercise better mimics the regular activities you do every day and you will have fewer injuries because your muscles have learned to work in concert.

Balance And Control

Functional exercise is all about using your body to balance yourself while having control over your muscles. For seniors, it may mean skipping lifting weights completely and instead working on things like squats and lunges that use all your muscles and help your balance. You don't need bulging biceps to have good functional use of your body.

Can you stand on one foot for any amount of time without falling?

If you have questions about functional exercise, talk to a trainer about those exercises that will best mimic those things you are doing in everyday life. It is a different way to exercise that will keep you balanced, strong, and free of injury.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Moataz_Elzieny/321206

You Really Can Take Care of Your Child's Health and Here's How

One of the major issues that concerns a parent is the health of his/her child. Being the most important duty of a parent is to motivate a child to lead a healthy life, parents can have a positive impact on the health of their children simply by setting a beneficial example.

Being a single person or in a relationship without children, it would probably be a tough task to sort out the difficulties other people of your age have when it comes to ensuring good health to a Child. But all we think about is how stressful it is and how to allocate quality time being around them. However, if you are a parent, it becomes even more stressful to look after them while you have to go to work!

But, the most wonderful experience one could get in a lifetime is just about being a parent.

To watch your child prosper daily with good nutrition and self-independence is quite a thrill. On reading a couple of Child care literature material which provides you with tips on child care and parenthood, the role of being a parent can prove to be an amazing one. With some families, it could be more effective for one parent to stay home and look after the child.

Encouraging your child to take part in physical activities on a regular basis is very essential. Parents should also convince them to imbibe this activity as a part of their lives. It becomes even safer to accompany your children on a daily walk as it is an exercise that is considered to keep them in good shape.

It is very important to consult a physician whenever a child is likely to have a problem related to the health. However minor the problem seems it is advisable to seek a physician's help since, they are delicate and require special attention.

A lot of planning and coordinating occurs no matter which phase your child is in. So, always make sure you are prepared to provide them the best of everything, watching them prosper healthy and fit.

There is no mandatory rule as doing a lot of research when it comes to the wellbeing of your child. Take your own quality time researching, without failing to get an early start so as to feel fresh and healthy as they grow along with you for a lifetime. It is one of the important things to remember.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Aman_Tumukur_Khanna/1972047

Money Can't Buy Fitness, You Gotta Earn It

It's long been said that money can't buy everything and most will agree if they are truly being honest throwing silliness aside. Money can't buy you true love. Money can't buy back your youth or bring back loved ones that have passed on. And additionally, money can't buy fitness no matter how much you shell out of your pocket.

To make that point clear, all the money in the world cannot automatically create that perfect physique regardless of how much you are willing to pay. Sure money can pay for a private gym membership or even allow you to build your own gym in your backyard. Money will also allow you to hire a 24 hour a day personal trainer along with a chef to be at your beckoning call whenever you need a healthy meal prepared.

Money can also pay for weight reduction surgeries or "tummy tucks" which can give the appearance of a reduction in weight. However even in this case the person is not fit, they just have less fat - completely different case.

However even with these things that money can potentially buy, they will not magically get you fit. The sweat and effort will still have to come from you and that is something money cannot buy.

You have to earn fitness and that is the beauty of it. No matter how rich or poor a person is, fitness is something that judges not on how financially well off you are.

If you've ever seen Brad Pitt in the movie Troy, Henry Cavill in Man of Steel, or Chris Hemsworth as Thor in the Avengers, these famous actors had to workout constantly and eat nutritiously for a number of months in order to develop the physique needed for their roles.

Don't believe me? YouTube or Google their workout and nutritional regiments and you'll see what they had to do in order to get in shape. Even these rich, famous actors had to put in the time to get fit.

Once you come to terms with this fact, you will see that money cannot buy fitness, it is something that has to be earned. If it helps motivate you, just maintain the mantra "If Brad had to do it, I can do it!"

Take it upon your shoulders and commit yourself wholeheartedly to a fitness plan. Be willing to exercise 4-6 days per week for a certain amount of time even if it's just for 20-30 minutes when beginning.

Everyone has to start somewhere, but the point of the matter is to start.

Naturally this habit will take some getting used to, but the better you stick with your fitness plan, the quicker this will truly become an important part of your life. Once you adhere to your workout routine for a certain amount of time, you will realize that money really can't buy fitness. You'll only get fit through hard work and determination.

Don't forget about the importance of tying healthy nutrition into your fitness plan so your weight loss results will be amplified even more so. Once you are able to combine both of these healthy habits regularly, losing weight and getting fit will come much more rapidly than you ever thought possible.

So with each running stride you take, lap in the pool, or mile on an exercise bike, keep in mind that you can't buy fitness, you have to earn it. As tough as that may sound right now at this moment, know that at the end of this journey you will revel in what you will have accomplished, proud that you did it all on your own.

Gregory L. Gomez, a LAUSD teacher who's also on journey to develop a healthy life in an effort to lose weight and get in shape. Follow his progress on http://HealthyChoicesInLife.com as he strives to lose nearly 100 pounds by eating healthy and maintaining a consistent exercise routine. Get a FREE monthly Healthy Choices Newsletter along with a Healthy Eating eBook just for stopping by athttp://healthychoicesinlife.com/healthy-eating.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregory_L_Gomez

Importance of Staying Hydrated in Fitness

More than half of your body weight is made up of water. Each cell in your body has to have water in order for it to function correctly. Water is essential for your body to remain healthy, and be able to function as it was designed to function.

What happens if I do not stay properly hydrated?
If you do not stay properly hydrated then your body cannot work as it is designed to work. Different things within your body will overheat and begin to shut down to conserve water. You can even die from improper hydration. The following signals are sent out by the body to remind you that you need to hydrate:
• Confusion or disorientation
• Dizziness or the feeling of being lightheaded
• A dry mouth
• Headache
• Extreme thirst
• Sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps
• Reduced urine output
• Dark urine that may have a foul odor
• Lack of tears

How often should I drink to stay hydrated for physical fitness?
By the time that you feel thirsty your body is already in the beginning stages of dehydration. You need to get in the habit of drinking regularly so you do not experience any dehydration symptoms.

Each person needs to consume between six and eight glasses of water each day. Those glasses need to be eight ounce glasses. This is just a guideline because there are people who can function normally with slightly less water intake and there are people who need more than eight glasses per day. People who perspire profusely normally have to have more fluid than people who never seem to sweat.

People with certain health conditions are more prone to dehydration than other people are. As you age your risk of dehydration increases.

The best rule of thumb is to have a drink of water every hour or two throughout the course of a day. If you place a cup in your bathroom you can get a drink of water every time you go to the restroom.

Do I have to drink water to stay hydrated for physical fitness?
Many people do not like to drink water. Water is the best liquid for your body, but there are other foods and drinks that can help you to maintain the proper hydration levels.
• Low sugar fruit juices
• Herbal teas
• Vegetable juices
• Coffee as long as your daily caffeine intake is less than 300 milligrams
• Sports drinks that are low in sugar and sodium. Be careful with sports drinks because you can be taking it a lot more sugar than you need, and you may have a false sense of hydration security because you are drinking, but your body may still be starving for water.

Zero Gravity Fitness has professionals who can help you reach your physical activity goals, and help you to learn how much to drink, and what supplements to take in order for you to be the best that you can be.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ador_Talukdar

The Effect of Computers on Our Health

It's difficult to imagine our day-to-day life without computers - laptops at home, computers in the offices. Work and leisure of a modern person are closely linked to computers. Many people sit in front of their computers in rather uncomfortable and unhealthy positions and that negatively affects the work of their cardiovascular system. It's worth mentioning that a long-term sitting in an uncomfortable position may easily lead to circulatory problems and stagnation in the vertebral arteries systems resulting in:

• increased blood pressure
• headaches
• irregular heartbeats because of the overstimulation of the nerves located along the spine
• memory problems
• increased fatigue
• false angina - pains in the chest caused by prolonged compression of the intercostal nerves.

According to the recent study, people who spend over 5 hours per day in front of their computers or TV are more prone to serious health problems; they are even more likely to die. Those working at the computer for more than 4 hours a day are 125% likely to have main cardiac diseases than those that spend less than 2 hours for this type of work. Other research has shown that after 1 hour of sitting the production of fat-burning enzymes is reduced by as much as 90%, moreover, extended sitting at the computer or in front of a TV slows body metabolism and affects such things as levels of good cholesterol in the blood (so fat gets accumulated in the bloodstream). This lack of physical activity is directly linked to 6% of the coronary heart disease cases.

Besides uncomfortable sitting position in front of a computer that has negative effect on the heart, there is another issue about computers that still brings up many questions - radiation. There is a lot of inaccuracy, vagueness and myths concerning computer radiation. The general consensus among researchers and medical specialists is that modern computers are manufactured in accordance with all safety requirement; therefore, they are not dangerous to individuals. But, like other electronic devices, laptops and computers do produce electromagnetic fields (EMF). So, to avoid any influence of the EMFs one should sit at least 12 inches away from the monitor and system unit of the computer. The same is true for laptops, in spite of their name it's better to keep them off the laps.

Now, that we've sorted out the negative effects of computers on the human heart, another question arises - how to reduce these negative effects?

There are two main rules:

• Change your sitting position as often as possible
• Control your muscle tension

Here are some tips that will help you follow these rules:

• Check your position (how you sit, whether your back is strained or shoulders are raised, etc.) every 10-15 minutes. Change it, shake your hands and arms, shrug your shoulders and get back to work.
• Drink a lot of water. This trick will help you make a break and divert your attention from your computer - going to the water cooler or toilet will make you move more.
• Keep your wastepaper basket away from your work desk so that you have to stand up when you need it.

Jason J Mitchell is a freelance content writer who specializes on health issues and at this moment writes articles for http://www.ok-pharmacy.com/blog

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_J_Mitchell

10 Reasons for You to Gain Weight to Look Good!

If you think external beauty does not matter at all, why do you like Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez and Kate Winslet? Aren't these celebrities good looking and charming? Don't their personalities attract you? Don't you love them from the core of your heart?

Beauty does matter. But what is this beauty? If you say it is something that comes as a gift, you're absolutely wrong. Beauty is something that lies in your hands. You can make yourself the way you really want to look. I have personally seen so many people who are not blessed with sharp and beautiful features, yet they manage to attract the crowd by their personalities.

Such people have one thing - a beautiful body! They surely know how to maintain themselves in order to win the hearts of all those who lay eyes upon them. Now you may think that this is about losing weight, but no, we are here to talk about gaining weight with the help of herbal medicines and supplements to look better. Following are the top 10 reasons that prove why gaining weight is so important to build your personality:

If you are a man and you have a good body, women feel protected while walking along your side.
Every man has a dream of having a beautiful girl in his life. Being a girl does not mean being skinny. Curviness attracts a lot of men!
In today's world of glamour and beauty, being curvy is the new slogan!
Herbal weight gainers make you gain sufficient weight, but do not make you obese! Having a healthy body is what we all desire to have!
You may have heard this one - dogs go for bones; real men go for the meat!
If you have been bullied by a lot of people all your life, it is time for you to bully them in return by gaining weight and being appealing!
Who does not like being beautiful? If you want to be beautiful, you need to work on your body first!
Weight gainers make you strong and strong bodies are loved by each of us!
If you have a strong body, you don't have to be worried even if you walk alone on the streets at 1 at night.
No matter what kind of clothes you wear, you always look good if you have a good and strong body! For an instance, look at how well maintained people look in tuxedoes!

We provide more information on Herbal Medicine Online. To know more about the same, click on the given link.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bhairavi_Sharma

Drink More Water and Start Losing That Extra Weight

Who hasn't heard the idea that drinking water can contribute to you diminishing your weight? Much more than usual! But is this affirmation true? The answer is yes! When you drink more water, you boost your metabolism, suppress that wild appetite, and clean your organism of waste. At the same time, you stop the body from retaining water and thus lose some extra pounds. How can you make sure you drink the right amount of water (8-10 glasses every day), maintaining yourself hydrated and losing weight? Here are a couple of great tips that will help you out!

Drink before eating

Water suppresses the appetite, so it is an excellent idea to drink it before you eat. As a result, you will feel full faster and eat less. Specialists say that drinking water before eating can reduce the calories intake with 75 calories/meal. Thus if you do this each meal daily for one year, you would cut the calories ingestion by 27,000. According to my math, you would be losing 8 pounds/year only by drinking water.

Drink water instead of calorie drinks

Forget all about sodas or juices, and drink water instead. Add a bit of lemon if you think this is too boring for you. You know for sure that a glass of water with a bit of lemon in it can really contribute to you losing weight and cut your food cravings. Don't believe it? Why don't you just start drinking water and convince yourself of the result?

Drink it cold

When you drink cold water, you boost your metabolism by forcing your body to work more in order to warm the water. This will also burn down calories and help you lose weight. Not to mention that cold water tastes better than normal temperature water.

Go to the gym

When you drink water, you prevent the muscles from cramping and you maintain your joints lubricated. This means that you can work out for a longer period of time. The key is to remain hydrated and those extra pounds will disappear quickly.

Get enough

The best trick when it comes to drinking water is to follow a rule called "8x8". Most nutritionists recommend it. You have to drink 8 glasses of 8 ounces with water daily. This will help you lose weight and keep your ideal figure. Keep in mind that you if exercise more, you will sweat more. This requires more water intake, or the same amount of water but completed with other type of drinks, like herbal teas.

What's the best way to know if you receive sufficient water? A good, but somehow weird rule, is to verify the toilet before going to the bathroom. When you are properly hydrated your urine gets light yellow and clear in color. If case your urine is dark, then you will know that you need to drink more water. Remember: drink water if you want to remain healthy and lose weight!

Can you really lose weight by drinking water? Come and visit our website to learn more on this topic!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karina_Popa

This Is The Plan To a Healthy Lifestyle!

We all live extremely fast paced lives with little or no time to think or consider our health could be affected by it. For years we eat and do what we like, most of the time we are totally oblivious of what is going on around us.

One day when those dark clouds appear on the horizon we may start to wonder, why are they coming closer and encircling me? Last time I could see only blue skies, yet everything has changed today and is different. Nobody is safe from the poisonous environment around us, such as fumes of car engines, or that lovely interior smell of a new car, smog, unhealthy mattresses, greasy fast foods and easy-to-make processed foods that have become such a concern of our lives today. When we finally recognise our health has become an issue, it is best to consider the food consumption first. And rightly so, this is where the first changes in our diet must take place. But be aware not only bad or unhealthy foods are the only things to consider. We must look at all options, not only food; there are many other factors as well that can attack our health.

A Closer Look on the Inside!

Just as important to change to healthier diets, there are some of the hidden culprits most people don't consider or even know about. How safe is the house on the inside you live in? By doing some stock-take of the everyday items you use may give you the answers to the things that seem harmless. As small as they may seem, but over time the totals can have a most unhealthy outcome. Such things as cleaners, cosmetics, toiletries, soaps, even the mattress you sleep on be as safe as you think it is. Why a mattress? We spend on average 25 percent of our life sleeping in a bed that could be unhealthy. By inhaling toxic chemicals from flame retardants in the mattress, this is similar to a new car. That clean fresh smell of the interior in fact has toxins and are not healthy to breath in.

Such chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries are containing hundreds of cancer-causing agents that cannot be ignored. Women would be wise to use less or stop their use of deodorants and antiperspirants because of chemicals called parabens used as preservatives. In under arm products used by women the very same chemicals were found in breast tumours. Products such as tooth paste, conditioners, cosmetics, lotions, soaps, shampoo, fly sprays, insect repellents, bubble bath, all contain harmful chemicals. One of the chemicals Triclosan is also used in many of the products, such as anti bacterial soaps, household cleaners, toothpaste etc. This is a concern, especially for children. Should we assume when children brushing their teeth some of that wouldn't be swallowed? All of these amounts as small as they seem can add up quickly if used on regular or even daily basis. Use natural alternatives toxin and chemical free instead, they are available. Living in this world of today, it is your job to make sure you keep your body free from the toxins present in the air around you, what touches your skin and body, and the food you eat.

Without Going to Any Extremes!

To protect or regain your health, being prepared to make changes but not necessarily to the extreme, this is where many people go wrong. Make the changes slowly and allow to adjust; this is important towards a lifestyle change suited for a long life expectancy. Planning a healthy program for yourself must suit for the long distance and most of all, keep it simple. Once you decide, and you are mentally prepared to make a healthy diet menu, make sure it is lenient enough for you to follow and continue. This does not only mean your intake of good nourishing food stuff, but it also means for you to cut down on the stuff that is harming your body from the outside. You cannot expect yourself to live on vegetables for the rest of your life. Add some different flavours and taste so that you don't get bored of the idea and revert to the easy way out. That path takes you back to a rough road filled with problems, diseases, ailments, and lower life expectancy. Although you should not deny yourself some of the food you really like but in smaller portions and not as often. Give yourself sometimes a treat for the good work you've done, without overdoing it. Not only does this healthy lifestyle cleanses your body and makes it healthier, it also helps you lose weight, improves the skin, and develops a vigorous, flowing personality.

My name is Josef Bichler. I have a passion for wellness and showing others how to live healthy lives. I have corrected my own health problems with the use of alternatives only and helping others to achieve their health objectives through lifestyle changes, detoxifying their body and through understanding the benefits of eating healthy. For more ongoing health information subscribe to my free weekly newsletter; this also gives you the opportunity for comments, suggestions and questions you may have, as well download my free e-book report to help making better choices: http://www.healthythenaturalway.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josef_Bichler

Tips for Planning a Healthy Diet

The subject of 'nutrition' is highly interesting and stimulating, the vastness of the subject includes advanced knowledge and studies of the human body and its reactions to various foods, the assimilation process and the do's and don'ts of maintaining proper health through a proper lifestyle.

The key to a healthy lifestyle is very obviously a diet that is balanced in every way; one that suits an individual's metabolism and enhances energy, vitality and well-being. The term 'diet' generally refers to the amount of food consumed by an individual, human or animal; 'dietary habits' refer to the individual decisions and choices made by a person in choosing what food to eat. In specifics, diet also refers to a particular intake of nutritious food consciously chosen for health and weight management reasons, whether by the concerned individual or by practiced health experts. Therefore, a person's health, longevity and quality of life is reflected through dietary choices and preferences made with reference to geographical region, culture, ethnicity and availability of food choices.

A proper diet for humans requires ingestion, digestion and absorption of needed energy, minerals and vitamins from the types of foods chosen - carbohydrates, fats and proteins among them.

Weight Management is the area of nutrition where a diet is chosen or put together to help with weight gain or weight loss. To meet specific needs of nutrition, energy and well-being some foods are recommended while some may be avoided so as not to upset the equilibrium of the body and prevent imbalance. However specific a diet is, it has to be in conjunction with an exercise regimen or fitness program, even the most basic ones as walking, cycling, swimming or body workouts. But in spite of many advancements and researched studies, there are many diets and weight-loss programs that are harmful to the human body as they neglect to promote good health. This is because some diets are singularly focused on weight-loss and advise quick schemes and programs that may or may not guarantee weight-loss but cannot guarantee good health.

As we know, in the developed world, random and unhealthy food choices and habits mainly dictated by affluence have led to large populations suffering from ill-health, obesity and sicknesses. Yet, there is no one singular diet or nutrition program that can be called a healthy diet; moderation is the key to consumption and a diet that is well-rounded with healthy food choices and a minimum fitness schedule can work wonders for everyone.

If there is a need to draw up or follow a particular diet for health reasons, there are some important issues involved that will help in the long run; after all, a diet is followed to achieve some amount of success in attaining the end-results or goals.

The most important thing to remember about imposing dietary restrictions is not to aim to become unrealistically thin or by self deprivation of favorite foods. Rather it is about healthy eating, about feeling positive regarding the choices made, being more energetic and having a balanced mood or attitude always. There is no doubt a surplus of information that one can have about diets; no two are alike and there are several contradictions. However by working around foods that suit an individual and making a plan which is practical and wholesome, anybody can create a tasty and healthy diet that has a balanced mix of all nutrients without overdoing or under-doing any food element.

Following and maintaining a diet can be achieved if some simple rules are observed.

1. Make a practical measure of the success to be achieved
2. Moderation is Key
3. It's 'how' foods are consumed not 'what' foods are consumed
4. Have a colorful mix of natural foods - good portions of vegetables and fruits
5. Consume healthier options like whole grains, healthy carbohydrates and proteins

To know more about diet, please check our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Urvi_Tandon

Health Tip - Planting "SSEEDs" for Healthy Adolescents

If you think your child isn't listening to you, think again. During the adolescent period from age 10 through 26, the College of Medicine's Dr. Lisa Barkley*, says parents have a tremendous opportunity to plant the "SSEED" for healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

Sleep - Never underestimate the power of sleep, especially for adolescents. Teens need at least eight hours of sleep per night, and sometimes more during growth periods. This also is a time to help your child establish good "sleep hygiene" habits like nightly routines that signal the body to prepare for restful sleep. Most important for this age group is turning off all electronic devices, from cell phones to televisions.

Stress - Ask any parent and they'll tell you that kids are more stressed out than ever before. It's the plague of modern times that can lead to chronic diseases if not handled appropriately. As parents, it's important to teach your child good stress management skills. Many kids relax by playing music or participating in sporting activities, while others release tension by talking with friends or journaling. Talk with your child to see how they handle stress, and make sure there's enough downtime. In fact, consider reserving one day a week where there are no plans at all.

Exercise - With so many ways to stay connected with friends through technology, it's no wonder that kids don't exercise as much as they used to. However, their body's need for exercise hasn't changed. Experts recommend that adolescents younger than 18 years of age get an hour of vigorous physical activity a day, and those 18 and older need 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. And who knows, as your child exercises more, his or her stress levels may decrease.

Environment - Take a close look around your home and really analyze how your adolescent is spending his or her time. Consider limiting the amount of time interacting with technology-from cell phones and computers to video games and television-to two hours per day. Also consider taking a holiday from electronics. For example, try going for an entire Sunday afternoon with no electronics of any type... parents, too. This may be easier to implement when you consider that by age 20, most adolescents have been exposed to 500,000 deaths through electronic media. By limiting their "screen time," you're also helping to prevent them from being desensitized to violence.

Diet - Getting your adolescent to eat at least five fruits and veggies per day may be a tall order, but it is important for their overall health. Also limit sugary beverages (or at least reserve them for special occasions) and encourage them to drink more water. And think "farm to table" when it comes to food selections, trying very hard to avoid processed foods and artificial sweeteners whenever possible.

According to Dr. Barkley, parents don't have to be perfect. However, they should be good role models for the types of healthy lifestyle habits they're trying to instill in their adolescents.

* Dr. Barkley treats patients and is the Assistant Professor and Assistant Dean of Diversity and Inclusion at the UCF College of Medicine.

As part of the UCF College of Medicine, UCF Pegasus Health was developed as a way to provide individualized, multidisciplinary health care based on the latest medical advancements. Staffed by faculty physicians, patients can receive primary and specialized care at our medical facility located at 3400 Quadrangle Blvd., Orlando, FL 32817. Specialties include adolescent medicine (age 16+), cardiology, endocrinology, geriatrics, internal medicine, nephrology, rheumatology and sports medicine. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (407) 266-DOCS or visit http://www.UCFPegasusHealth.org. Coming in 2015 - UCF Pegasus Health will open a second location in Lake Nona's Medical City. Stay tuned for more details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_W_Phillips

15 Ways to a Healthier and Happier You in 2015

It's just about 2015 and you are determined to start the year with a fresh new start towards becoming a healthier and happier person. Well you are not alone! I believe that in 2015 we can all experience more Health, Healing and Hope for ourselves and our families, but where do we begin because this is more than just a New Year's resolution? Health is a journey, a plan towards wellness that is intentional and a new way of life. Change is not easy, but it is doable one step at a time, one day at a time. Real health is about addressing our physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing, because all three are connected and affect our physical health every day. So let's begin.

Here are 15 ways to get started TODAY for a Healthier and Happier you in 2015:

Get a physical and get your hormone levels checked. So many cancers today are caused by an imbalance of hormones.
Begin to eliminate junk food, sweets, soda, boxed foods as much as possible. There is so much research that says that these alone are causing many of our diseases and remember that cancer grows in sugar.
Try to buy organic food and avoid all Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) or genetically modified seed. Much of the soy, corn, cotton and canola sold today are now from GMO seed.
Start eating healthier: more fruits and vegetables, beans, nuts, seed and berries. Avoid all meats that have hormones, antibiotics, etc. Introduce coconut into your diet which gives the body needed ketones and helps with memory issues.
Drink organic milk, coconut and almond milk, organic tea only. Teas are like spices, they have so many nutritional benefits for the body, but avoid regular teas with hidden pesticides.
Drink filtered water with lemon to balance your body's pH level. Apple cider vinegar also balances the pH levels, but don't forget to add the cinnamon and honey!
Exercise. This isn't necessarily always big workouts, rather daily walks, stretching, weights, bicycling, jump roping, etc.
Detoxify. Consider a detox regime to rid your body of toxins and take fiber for daily elimination. Detoxing doesn't have to be difficult and it can bring the body back to health. Remember toxins brings disease.
Take salt baths, get massages and maybe see the chiropractor. Some salts have over 83 minerals and can regulate close to 325 enzymes which helps the body detox and heal. Massages and chiropractic adjustments also allows the body to rid the body of toxins.
Drink a smoothie everyday. Some of the things I put in mine are: organic fruits, vegetables, coconut milk, an omega 3 source, brewer's yeast (B vitamins), gelatin (collagen), and green powder with all kinds of adaptogens, herbs, plant enzymes, extracts and superfoods.
Take a good multi vitamin if you are not consuming a green powder every day. Research says that most of us are not getting the required vitamins and minerals that our bodies need.
Take a strong probiotic daily for the gut, especially if you have been on a lot of antibiotics or have yeast. Most diseases start in the gut and then proceed into the bloodstream to every organ. Probiotics build up the good bacteria.
Cook with a lot of spices. Research indicates that spices can change blood pressure, blood sugar and heal some diseases.
Get more sleep and try to reduce your stress. Meditation on God is a great way to bring your stress levels down.
Lastly, start reading about health. Today's changes will determine tomorrow's health. It is NEVER too late to get started!

The easiest changes occur when we work one day at a time chipping away at what seems to be an incredibly large mountain in front of us. However, today's changes will make tomorrow a better day with a quality of life that is happier and brighter for each one that meets the challenge. If we take today's health a little more serious, hopefully tomorrow's pain will be a little less, doctor visits a bit fewer and a life more full to enjoy with those we love. Wishing you all a healthier and happier 2015!

Christina Hall is an educator, writer and speaker on all things health. If you would like to learn more about starting your own health journey in 2015, visit http://homeremedies4mom.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christina_M_Hall

The Biggest Fitness and Health Trends of the Year 2014

Because of lifestyle choices, more and more people are becoming prone to developing chronic, debilitating diseases or facing increased risk for early mortality. For instance, statistical data reveal that the numbers of Americans that are obese are increasing year after year. There are various information drives and health-oriented campaigns targeted at the public, with the main objective of promoting healthier food options and lifestyle modifications. People who want to lead healthier lives were given numerous options, as one health trend came after another. The year 2014 is almost over. It is now high time for us to look back at three of the biggest fitness and health trends that became popular during the year.

Locally sourced food for economic and environmental gains

This year, there has been a lot of buzz about the numerous benefits of patronizing locally sourced foods to to individuals and communities. This entails buying grocery items, including meat and fish, from the local farmers' market. It also involves planning the daily menu based on the fruits and vegetables that are in season. Eating locally produced foods is not only good for your health. It is also friendlier to the environment, and definitely helpful to the local economy. Since the raw ingredients are not transported a long ways, and are not subjected to too much handling, their freshness and quality are retained. The end user benefits from the nutrients more. By purchasing locally, consumers also have the assurance that the foods they eat are not contaminated.

"Superfoods" for better health and longer life

If you believe the experts, then "superfoods" do not only provide you with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. They also ward off potentially fatal illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and heart disease. The foods also lower the risk for depression and promote a stressful lifestyle overall. No, these are not foods that have been manufactured in laboratories. These are regular supermarket fare that are "nutrient powerhouses," especially when eaten raw.

What exactly are the benefits of superfoods? Well, instead of taking drugs to lower the risk for various health conditions, including foods such as yogurt, soy, walnuts, hemp seeds, quinoa (ancient grain), freekeh (young wheat), amaranth, oats, broccoli, beans, spinach, tomatoes, blueberries, buffaloberries, pumpkin, oranges, kale, salmon, turkey, as well as green tea and black tea. They are affordable, delicious, and there are no side effects, unlike some medications of food supplements that may have adverse effects on the body in the long run. These superfoods come highly recommended by nutritionists because of their nutritive and protective qualities.

Functional fitness programs for health-conscious adults

Lastly, "functional fitness" became the go-to workout program this year. The approach is rather simple, incorporating strength training for specific muscles with a more generalized fitness program. Older adults in particular became more interested in trying this out because it helps to improve a person's capacity to perform activities of daily living. Aside from developing strength, the program has been shown to improve balance and coordination and promote weight loss as well.

Check out more information on 101 Health Advice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Gilbertson

Top 8 Tips to Achieve All Round Health and Wellness

The body works under rules that govern it. Just like any machine, when the rules are broken, the body will break down before achieving its best. The eight tips or laws that govern health can be summarized in the acronym NEWSTART. These are Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sunshine, Temperance, Air, Rest and Trust in divine power.

Nutrition is the most observed and at the same time the most abused. Surveys have proven that the secret to longevity is subsistence on a vegan diet. The people of the Mediterranean regions and the Adventist of Loma Linda are among the longest living people in the world. Their diet is majorly plant-based and as wholesome as possible. Eating at least five portions of fruits per day with almost an equal number of vegetable portions keeps free radicals away from your body. Plants also have HDL lipids that are good for the body in contrast to animal LDL fats that are associated with most of the lifestyle degenerative diseases. Decomposers such as yeast and mushrooms take energy from the body rather than giving you energy.

Exercise comes next in hand. This is yet another law that has been broken especially by the rich and wealthy. Exercise involves doing workouts, farming, walking, swimming, bike riding among others. Mental exercise includes singing, humming, meditation, appreciation of nature and so on. We need to exercise so that we can develop lean muscles that are essential for doing work and also for increasing the rate of metabolism. Those who do not exercise regularly are less productive in both their sedentary and physical activities.

Water is a necessity of life. The body is over 70% of water. All the muscles, bones, nerves, cells... need water. The brain which is at the center of the central nervous system is also almost 90% of water. This means that when the body is deprived of water, the body functioning will be compromised. When the body is deprived of water there is thickening of blood. Blood carries oxygen to the whole body. If it is thickened, there is less supply of oxygen and other nutrients to the whole body. Metabolic wastes and carbon dioxide will also not be removed effectively from the cells. Such environment is very conducive for cancer and other diseases.

Sunshine is good for the mood. If someone is moody, take them out rather than confining them in doors. In addition, sunshine is rich in vitamin D. this is a vitamin that helps in the absorption of calcium into the bones hence healthy bones. Sunshine also kills some germs.

Temperance should be accompanied with everything. There are those who are eating the healthiest of foods but they eat too much of it. Overeating is a major cause of stomach upsets together with blood poisoning. In addition to this, when working, either mental work or physical work, never over do it.

Air is also good for the moods. It is necessary that we do some deep breathing on the natural environment where there are lots of plants. Air is also rich in oxygen which is an important fuel for our cells. The body cells need abundant oxygen for optimum functioning. If possible, you should live in the countryside rather than in the city because the former has cleaner air than the polluted air within the cities.

Rest is yet another law that has been broken by almost all adults. People are more concerned about making wealth rather than their wellbeing. We tend to overwork ourselves to make wealth that we will not enjoy later on because our lack of rest comes with its own cons. Lack of rest can lead to disease and even pre mature death. In addition, someone who gets enough rest is more productive than the person with little rest. Eight hours per day of sleeping together with a 45 minute afternoon nap are good enough for us.

Trust in divine power comes on the base. This is because if you follow all the laws above but fail in the last one, all the other seven may not work. Meditating on spiritual matters is medicine on its own. The creator knows our bodies well and that's why trusting our health to him is the wisest thing for us.

Japheth Kagolla is a trained medical health missionary. He is trained to treat people using simple natural remedies and foods. He also does lots of freelance writing on health related subjects

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Japheth_Kagolla