The Zone Diet ExplainedWritten by Helen Laxton
Developed by Barry Sears PhD, 'Zone Diet' is latest in a long line of attempts to get a fresh angle on weightloss, and is currently among 5 most popular diets in States, partly because dieters report losing up to 5 pounds in first week, and up to 1.5 pounds each week thereafter. Dr Sears main thrust is that food is 'medecine' for body, and not just 'fuel'. He proposes an "ideal" ratio of carbohydrates, proteins and fats - namely 40% carbs to 30% protein and 30% fat, which is supposed to keep body within a healthy 'zone' determined by hormones. Slightly complicating matters is concept that some carbs are good, and some are bad. Refined Carbohydrates such as pasta, potatoes and bread are bad, and need to be strictly controlled.Dr Sears believes human body's digestive system works best by eating only 2 main food groups, namely Lean protein and natural carbohydrates (from fruits and fiberous vegetables). The good Doctor also advises disciples to eat small but regular meals, at least times 5 per day. Added to this are other key parts of diet (there are 4 components in all) - diet itself, use of monounsaturated fats, Omega-3 fish oil dietary supplements and of course exercise. This combination is said to burn excess body fat while increasing energy. Adherents report increased vitality not to mention improved mental abilities and fewer health problems. To follow Zone Diet, you create 'zone meals' or snacks based on 40% 30% 30% ratio of carbs, proteins, and fats. In terms of portion size, use your own hand as a guideline (for example, a protein portion will be approximately size and thickness of your palm). As for carbs, it depends on whether they are good or bad carbs. You can have 2 "big, loose fists" of good carbs, but only 1 "tight fist" if you prefer a bad carbohydrate like pasta, potatoes or bread.
| | Menopause and ProgesteroneWritten by Cathy Taylor
Do women going through menopause have lowered levels of progesterone? Recent research tells us that women do suffer from decreased levels of progesterone and also experience other symptoms such as unexplained weight gain (particularly in stomach area), depression, fatigue, hair loss, memory loss, mood swings, migraines and loss of libido. A natural cream can balance estrogens without side effects. Progesterone and estrogen are two main hormones made by women’s ovaries when they are menstruating. Smaller amounts of these hormones are also secreted by adrenal glands. It's necessary for survival of fertilized ovum, its embryo as well as fetus during gestation. Progesterone's primary functions include: acting as a precursor to estrogen and testosterone; it maintains uterine lining and aids in gestation; protects against fibrocystic breasts, endometrial and breast cancer; acts as a natural diuretic, helps use fat for energy; can be a natural antidepressant; aids thyroid hormone action; normalizes blood clotting; restores sex drive; normalizes blood sugar, zinc and copper levels; restores proper cell oxygen levels, has a thermogenic effect; builds bone and helps to protects against osteoporosis.
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