Friday, June 29, 2012

How Does Stress Affect Our Weight?


Stress either physical, mental or emotional is ubiquitous in our lives. In fact, its impossible to avoid it. Stress is the natural response of the body to extreme situations that demand some action.
Good stress can improve the immune system. However, bad stress weakens the body's immune system and can cause intestinal disorders. It can also have a huge impact on our metabolism and weight. Fear, anxiety, anger and depression are some of the stressors that can be detrimental to health.
The Effects Of Stress To Our Weight
Stress stimulates the production of adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol. These hormones are produced by the adrenal glands as a response to tension. Increased heart rate, blood pressure and metabolism are the effects on the body.
When the hormones are released in the bloodstream, they stimulate conversion of a stored form of energy glycogen into glucose and increase production of free fatty acids. These occur within the liver and used as a source of energy in the body. The body is designed to produce these hormones to aid in response to stress.
During emergency situations, this response known as "fight or flight" is beneficial for the body to cope with short-term situations. Conversely, chronic stress is harmful to health as the body will continue to release these hormones which stimulates more production of glucose in the body.
The demand for insulin increases in order to metabolize the glucose to energy. When the body produces more insulin it will signal your body to feel hungry and you will crave more food. It has been observed that stress increases your weight because of this involuntary response in your body when it occurs.
Managing Stress
Though it is inevitable, finding ways to alleviate the pressure in life is vital to stay fit and healthy. It is common during these situations we seek food as our outlet to relieve our tension and yet it can add to your weight issues.
Physical activity, relaxation techniques, meditation and other diversion methods are good alternatives for coping. Exercise is the best outlet to combat stress because it will improve insulin sensitivity thus, increases your metabolism.
Take a break from work and have vacation with your family. Revitalize yourself from your busy bustling environment. Go to beach and enjoy a moment in peaceful and calm surroundings free from stressors.
Undeniably, these negative pressure can positively influence your weight, emotions and total being. High blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and obesity are also results of stress. So the next time you feel you are under pressure, take a break, inhale deeply, relax and pause for a moment. Don't risk your health because of stress.

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Best Tips: Diets for Quick Weight Loss


With the increasing problem of obesity in some parts of the world, especially in the United States, more and more people are looking at diets for quick weight loss as solutions. Though it is not a bad thing to lose weight fast, there are concerns about the overall health while on such diet programs. That is why it is important to know the ins and outs of any weight loss plan that you intend to undergo. Remember, your health comes first.
Are Diets for Quick Weight Loss Safe?
A number of programs that promote rapid weight loss rely on lessening the amount of calorie intake. This is not safe since the calorie amount may reach dangerous levels, which is almost always what happens with famous fad diets. Some diets for quick weight loss also require you to take in a pill or kind of food that contains certain ingredients that are not necessarily safe. These kinds of diet plans are only in for the money and not entirely about weight loss and especially not about your health. Also, people who undergo such diets tend to gain the weight back real quick. There are many cases that more weight is gained on top of those previously lost. Thought the best way to lose weight and keep them off is to undergo a slow but progressing diet program, there are a few diets for quick weight loss that are considered safe.
The Dangers of Fad Diets for Quick Weight Loss
You hear about them from infomercials, over the Internet, and from your favorite celebrities. Fad diets are everywhere and it seems like they're sprouting like mushrooms. You have to remember that these famous people who go under such drastic dieting need to look great to earn their keep. That's maybe why they will do anything just stay beautiful and that includes diet programs that require fasting, killer exercising and consuming laxatives, detox pills and others that contain ingredients that are suspicious.
How to Lose Weight Fast But Safe
In order for you lose those unwanted fat, you need to burn around 500 more calories than what you take in a day. Maintaining that 500 calorie level is important because more than that can do more harm than good. Of course you'll need to exercise regularly. A one hour-session every day is enough for you to lose around 2 to 5 pounds in just one week.
Another way to lose weight fast is to eat healthy by cutting back on starch and salt. Doing so will result in fluid loss. Controlling the consumption of added sugars, dairy and meat fats and increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables is another way to hasten weight loss and improve health. Instead of eating too much or snacking on junk food, eat more fruits and vegetables to fill your tummy or satisfy that mini hunger.