Smart Snacking – Cinnamon Banana

This is a great mid-afternoon snack. It is under 200 calories, sodium and cholesterol free, and a good source of potassium, phytonutrients, and fiber.

In a plate, mash 1 medium banana (about 7 inches long). Sprinkle it with ground cinnamon. Add 1 Tbsp of raisins (about 20 raisins) and 2 Tbsp of sliced dry-toasted almonds (about 11 g).

Nutrient of the Week: Essential Fatty Acids

You must be wondering what on earth are fatty acids. Well, fatty acids are the simplest form of lipids found in the body and in foods. When you consume dietary fats or oils[1], your body breaks down the large lipid molecules into smaller units that can be absorbed and used by the cells. The most common type of lipid is the triglyceride, which is composed of fatty acids and glycerol[2].  There are many types of fatty acids in nature, and their combinations provide distinct tastes and smells to foods.

Form Follows Function: The Specificity Principle

Have you been working out really hard but lacking results? If so, you might want to reconsider your training routine. The problem is that the human body responds to stress (and believe me, exercise is a type of stress) by suffering distinct physiological adaptations which are highly specific to the type of stimulus. This means that your training outcomes depend on the type of activity you choose to perform, the training volume, and the exercise intensity. Thus, in order to obtain the results you desire, your training program should stress the right physiological systems.

Keeping Track of Your Progress

Perhaps the number one reason why people abandon an exercise program is the lack of visible results. It’s not that they are not getting any results; they just can’t notice them. Most people pursuing weight-loss goals feel discouraged after a few weeks of training because they don’t seem to be losing weight fast enough.

Lifelong Learning – A Survival Strategy

Human beings go through several physical and mental changes during their lifetime. From the moment we are born, we are constantly learning new skills that enable us to adapt to our ever-changing body, mind, and environment. This means that as we grow older, our bodies’ needs and limitations suffer considerable modifications. In addition, our interests and priorities continue to evolve throughout our life. Things that were important to you when you were a teenager will probably become irrelevant as you grow older.

What Is Binge Drinking and How May It Harm You?

Binge drinking is defined as having more than four alcoholic drinks (for women) or five alcoholic drinks (for men) in one sitting. Even though it may sound strange to most people, it is a common behavior among college students. You probably had at least one episode of binge drinking in your lifetime: a bachelorette celebration, a college party or a “girls’ night out.” I’m sure you still remember how bad you felt the day after. Headache, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to sound and light, dry mouth, and irritability are a few symptoms of a hangover. Besides causing serious temporary impairments, consuming large amounts of alcohol at once may also lead to alcohol abuse and addiction in the long run.

The Qualities of a Successful “Loser”

We live in times where everything is fast: fast-food, fast money, fast delivery, fast weight-loss… In the information era, people are used to getting what they want with the snap of their fingers. No one wants to wait; we want it and we want it now. Unfortunately, this attitude reflects on many aspects of our lives, from simple purchases to lifestyle choices. No wonder there are so many people in trouble financially or in poor health. We are constantly driven by instant pleasure and satisfaction. The problem is that more often than not, the state of happiness lasts only for a few moments. As it fades, it leaves a feeling of emptiness, creating the need for more.

Diabetes Unveiled

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that affects 8.3% of Americans[1]. It is a serious disease that if left untreated, can cause cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, and death. Diabetes is more prevalent in certain populations such as Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans.

Household Workout – Part II

In the last article, we discussed the importance of maintaining good posture and body alignment when performing household chores. Now, we will apply those safety principles to some of these day-to-day activities.

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