ChrysanthemumWritten by Patricia Valle
~Chrysanthemum~Chrysanthemum (chrysanthemum sinese and chrysanthemum indictum) are from Asteraceae (compositae) family, and are related to marigolds, zinnias, dahlias and sunflowers. Originally cultivated in China, this remarkable flower is now grown all over world. There are over 200 species in genus. The name Chrysanthemum is derived from Greek, (chyros), meaning "golden and anthos", meaning "flower". The flowers come in every color except blue, and are mainly used for ornamental purposes in United States. They are, however, used as a food in salads, cooking, beverages, and can be found in many markets. The Chinese use chrysanthemum as a cooling beverage to help alleviate headaches and fever, and also to remove toxins from body. The flowers are also known to act as a blood purifier, counteracting
| | Setting Realistic Goals for Weight LossWritten by Larry Denton
There are many reasons for people who are overweight or obese to lose weight. To live longer. To look better. To have more energy. To feel better. No matter what reason, successful weight loss and healthy, sustained weight management depend on sensible goals and realistic expectations. If you set achievable goals for yourself, chances are you'll be more likely to meet them and have a better chance of keeping weight off. You shouldn't strive to lose 50 pounds in a month. In fact, losing even five to 10 percent of your weight, over a matter of time, is kind of goal that can improve your health.Most people who are successful at losing weight and keeping it off, have a "oh goodness" moment, when something clicks and they don't want to be this size any longer. Motivations vary. Some people worry about chronic diseases like diabetes or coronary problems. Others are preparing for a special event--a wedding, reunion, or special birthday, such as their 40th or 50th. Some people find in embarrassing to have difficulty fitting into theater seats or behind steering wheel of their vehicle. Having to buy extra large clothing from special shops is a psychological motivation for others. Whatever reason, pick a plan. One diet does not fit all. And for obvious health concerns, overweight people should try to lose weight gradually. Try not to exceed two pounds per week. Fad diets which ignore principles of U.S. government Dietary Guidelines may result in short term weight loss, but may do so at risk of your long-term health. And many of fad diets--like infamous Cabbage Soup Diet--can undermine your health and lead to psychological despair and disappointment when you regain weight shortly after you lose it. Doctors, dieticians and other health experts agree that best way to lose weight is to eat fewer calories and increase physical activity so you burn more energy. There are no "super foods" that either cause you to gain weight or help you lose it. That's reason to ignore products or programs that promise quick and easy results, or that promise permanent results without permanent changes in your lifestyle. Any ad that says you can lose weight without lowering calorie intake and/or increasing your physical activity is selling a fantasy dream, "magic bullet" which simply does not exist.
|