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Official Slowdown Notice – HART-Empire Network

If you didn’t know this .. offline I am an accountant, bookkeeper and income tax preparer (besides “consultant and blogger and pet owner” titles) .. and here in Canada, personal income tax returns (T1) are due April 30th. That is, of course, unless one is self-employed .. then the deadline to file a return is June 15th, but payment is due by April 30th. Corporation income tax returns (T2) are due six months after the year end, although payment is usually due by the end of the third or second month following the company’s year end (depending on circumstances).

As I look at my TO DO LIST … it would seem that I’ve got 87 items in my “To Do” list to be completed before April 30th .. and every day new items are being added! The biggest problem is NOT the actual work or workload .. it’s the scheduling of the meetings and getting the work out of my (home) office and out to the client!

As I look on my Pre-posting Schedule of Blog entries that I have coming due this week .. I suddenly realize that I have ABSOLUTELY NO PRESCHEDULED POSTS available for the next 10 days!

Quite honestly, this is just too time consuming for me to catch up with the postings for the remainding month of April, so I’m officially on SLOWDOWN NOTICE – TEMPORARILY – UNTIL MAY 1, 2007.

Although I may or may not be posting periodically during this time on PetLvr.com/blog/ or 1800HART.com/blog/ these will strictly be for “instant blogging” reasons such as “income tax news” or “if I don’t post it now it well get lost in my email” reasons or my weekly “fat blogging summaries”.

Unfortunately, I can’t quit “my day job” yet from blogging 😀 … so, I just HAVE to concentrate on my “Meat and Gravy” .. which is accounting and income tax.

But my blogs do not have to be deadspace …

If anybody is interested in GUEST POSTING articles in ANY of my blogs in my sidebar ON ANY TOPIC, please contact me at …. hart (at) PetLvr (dot) com ..

Just provide me the following:

* Let me know which blog you would like to guest author for
* Please provide a write-up about yourself to describe you to my readers
* Don’t forget to include resource line for end of article to promote your site or product/links!

I figure .. it never hurts to ask, right? Anybody interested?

Thanks!

HART (1-800-HART)
Google Talk: 1800hart (at) gmail (dot) com

PS:

cc HART-Empire.com
cc PetLvr.com/blog/
cc 1800HART.com/blog/
cc Battling-Obesity.com

But, I will not be cc’ing this anywhere else .. so I don’t seem to spam any services with similar posts, like Outpost-Earth.com etc etc etc

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Simple Exercise For A Bad Day

By Brett Riesenhuber

Some mornings I wake up, or just get up out of bed because I never slept that night. What I did was spend the whole night tossing, just trying to sleep. Motivation leaves a bit to be desired due to the fact that my eyes are half closed and drooping towards the floor.

So the question of a workout comes to bear. Do I even want to exercise? I tell you, I don’t want to get out of bed. Sleep is desired, but it isn’t happening anyway. Well since I still have an extra 15 pounds of ‘winter fat’ that I want removed from my abdominal area…guess I should do something. What does one do in this kind of situation? Keep it simple and move your body.

Get out of bed, kill a couple double espressos, and go do something. Obviously I probably am not going to hit it like I would with the elusive full nights’ rest, but something here is better than nothing…calorie intake will probably be the same for the day, if not more. So burning extra calories is the way to go. Being one of the top Fitness Professionals in the South Bay Area, I know that I need to burn an extra 3500 calories per week just to drop ONE pound of body fat. Based on that information, I should do something, anything!

Here is some good news in this case: an easy cardiovascular workout will burn a greater percentage of fat calories than a hard cardio session will. Wait, did I say that? Oh yes, that is right…and that is why we use target heart rate during aerobic exercise!

Notice on the charts that your target is not 80-100% of your max, but 60-80%? That is because it has been shown that a higher percentage of the calories burned from fat during exercise can be obtained at the lower heart rate levels, and more carbohydrates (and even muscle) can be burned at higher heart rate levels!

Now about the length time to exercise…yea, you got it, have to go longer. We need to go a bit longer time length because we will be burning fewer calories at the lower level heart rate, but higher percentage of fat. BUT on this day the goal is just to do it! Just getting the lower intensity level session will burn a higher percentage of fat versus carbohydrates, as well as just burning something! Remember that burning something on a bad day is better than burning nothing due to the bad start. PLUS you will feel better from the endorphins released during exercise!

So what to do? How about a walk? Take the dog out for a walk, or hit the park, par course, track, or neighborhood streets. Raining? Get an umbrella. Bored? Get an iPod. Cold? Wear a jacket or sweatshirt. Don’t make the excuse, after all, you already are getting past the ‘I’m tired’ excuse!

The bottom line is that just getting out an doing some form of exercise on a bad day is better than doing nothing when it comes to health, fitness, and sustained weight loss.

Good luck in your program and go exercise!

By Brett A. Riesenhuber

©2007 PrimePhysique, LLC

SanJoseBootCamp.com/

PrimePhysique.com/

Brett A. Riesenhuber is the owner of Prime Physique Fitness Specialists and San Jose Adventure Boot Camp and is a certified personal trainer of more than 16 years. holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Fitness and Business from San Jose State University. He is referred to as San Jose’s Top Fitness Professional. His credentials also include Core Conditioning Specialist, Biomechanics Specialist, Functional Training Specialist, and Golf Fitness Pro.

Brett has authored numerous fitness articles including “The Wakeboard Workout” which has been published online through WakeWorld.com and WaterSkiMagazine.com, “Brett’s Fitness Recipe Report,” and “Golf Secrets Revealed.” He also co-authors the popular bi-monthly e-publication “Prime Physique Online Magazine” which is packed with great information and recipes.

An avid home chef (and wine connoisseur), Brett has helped numerous clients design and implement not only a solid diet and nutrition plan, but a flavorful one!

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brett_Riesenhuber

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Be Aware Of The Symptoms Of Breast Cancer

By Jon Arnold

In today’s world, is it that occurrences of breast cancer are growing much more than it was years ago, or it is just that breast cancer is getting more visibility in the press and medical journals? It appears that the answer is a little bit of both. The population is increasing and therefore the actual number of cases is more, although the actual percentage of people diagnosed with breast cancer is not significantly different (although it is higher) than in years past.

One of the things that many people fail to understand is that anyone can get breast cancer. Although it is thought to be tied somewhat to being hereditary, that does not mean that you will not get breast cancer if there is no occurrence of it in your family history.

Another thing that is equally puzzling is why more people, particularly women where breast cancer is most likely to happen, do not get regular checkups from their doctor to check for it. I know of multiple people who were diagnosed with breast cancer, and when asked when the last time they had a mammogram done to check for the presence of breast cancer, they indicated it had been a number of years. This is truly unfortunate because like most things, if breast cancer is caught as early as possible, the chances of beating it become incredibly greater.

You should be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer, sometimes also known as inflammatory breast caner so that you can see your doctor as soon as possible if these symptoms exist. These symptoms include:

* A breast that appears bruised, or is pink or purple.
* If your breast is feeling tender or firm and enlarged.
* A consistent warm feeling in the breast.
* Pain or itching in the breast that is constant.
* A ridged or dimpled skin texture, kind of like an orange peel.
* Flattened, retracted, swollen or crusted skin around the nipple.
* Lumps or enlarged lymph nodes under the arm or around the collarbone.

This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms but if you are experiencing any of these symptoms or signs, you should see your doctor as soon as possible to get checked out. Most health insurance companies will pay for this examination, because they realize that it is going to cost them much more if the cancer is allowed to grow instead of being diagnosed, caught, and remedied early on in its development stages.

Many of these same symptoms can also indicate the presence of a breast infection called mastitis. This type of infection most frequently (although not exclusively) occurs in younger women, usually under age 35, who are breast feeding young children. This is not breast cancer but is a simple infection that is most easily treated with prescription antibiotics. It is frequently accompanied by fever. The difference here is that breast cancer does not cause a fever, nor does it respond to antibiotics.

The bottom line is that you need to be aware of the classic symptoms of breast cancer, since the earlier it is diagnosed and treated, especially with the advances in today’s medicines, the better your chances of beating it.

Jon is a computer engineer who maintain a variety of web sites based on his knowledge and experience. For more information about Breast Cancer, please visit his web site at Breast Cancer Explained.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Arnold

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Link Between Stress and Frequent Headaches

By Kristi Patrice Carter

The link between frequent headaches and stress is a serious one and needs to be thoroughly understood to be avoided. Stress can be caused by many things: physical, environmental and emotional factors all play a part. Stress causes tension which causes pain, and all too often that pain comes in the form of a stress-and-tension-induced headache.

Physical stressors include hunger, cold, extreme tiredness, atmospheric conditions created by change in the seasons and remaining in the same physical position for too long at a time, as well as walking or standing in the hot sun for long hours, eye strain due to lots of reading and watching TV for too long at too close a range. Most of the time we can control these, yet too often we don’t. So if you forget to take your allergy meds, or you’re bent on studying all night for a final, dropping those extra few pounds in too much of a hurry, or just plain determined to finish the project before you without a respite, you’re setting yourself up for physical stress—and probably a stress-caused headache as well.

Inhaling cigarette or fireplace smoke or otherwise being in a room with insufficient oxygen and spending time outside when pollen is active are all good examples of environmental stressors.

Emotional tensions such as an argument with your spouse, dealing with a teenager bent on doing something you are equally bent on not allowing or suffering the loss of a loved one are all excellent examples of emotional stress.

Of course, there are many other stressors in all three categories. The point here is that the root cause of the stress is also the root cause of the headache, so the degree to which you can reduce or eliminate the stress in your life is the same degree to which you will reduce or eliminate your stress headaches. Get rid of the stress and you will get rid of the headache.

Any kind of stress can create a headache, though the dividing line between stress and headaches is so thin that it can sometimes be difficult to ascertain whether stress is the cause of the headache or the headache is the cause of stress. Whichever it is, having a headache will increase your level of stress, which in turn makes your headache even worse.

Caffeine can be a major inducer of headaches. Although we reach for a nice cup of hot coffee or tea believing it will boost our energy, the caffeine in coffee and tea actually drives our adrenal glands to produce stress hormones that are still our blood for as much as 18 hours later. Caffeine boosts the “fight or flight” response nature provided to help save our lives when every bit of energy was required to survive.

A shot of caffeine may be helpful to increase your speed when escaping from physical danger; however, most of the time we ingest caffeine at our desks, in our cars, or sitting down and eating, which is why caffeine can create a chronic state of stress without a way to relieve it. So the next time you find yourself in line at your favorite coffee bar, go for a walk instead. Exercise raises circulation, spirits and lowers stress all at the same time.

Learn more about stress and Frequent Headaches at www.frequent-headaches.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristi_Patrice_Carter

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7 Tips For Fat Loss

By Craig Ballantyne

Cardio is not the best fat loss workout. To lose fat, you have to boost your metabolism and burn fat while you rest. Strength and interval workouts help you shed fat the best.

Here are 7 fat loss tips, one for each day of the week. This will be a big week coming up for you, right? With these instructions, you’ll lose fat and gain a little more muscle if you want.Remember, take baby steps each day to healthier, lifelong habits and you’ll burn fat.

Here’s your guideline to stick to those goals…

Monday

Do a strength and interval workout. Strength training and interval training boost your metabolism after exercise. Something that cardio doesn’t do very well at all. That’s why strength and interval workouts burn fat better.

“I lost 14 pounds this month and the weight is just falling off me. My wife says I now look like when we first met and I still have more to go. I can fit into my old jeans again which is a big deal for me. I just cut back on starches and bread and do strength and intervals 2-3 times a week. I never thought in a million years that just 10-20 minutes of weight training followed by some cardio would get me such steady results. I even cheat a bit on the weekends,” says Billy Williams.

Tuesday

Do 30 minutes of activity. Do something fun. Walk the dog. Walk with your spouse. Do some yard work. Run some errands. Whatever you do, don’t feel like you have to do a cardio workout in the gym.

Wednesday

Do another strength and interval workout. You can do these at home with only a dumbbell, a bench, and an exercise ball. No fancy equipment or expensive gym memberships needed.

Thursday

Have fun with another 30 minutes of activity. After, review your liquid calorie intake. Take note of how much alcohol, juice, soda, and other sweetened beverages you drink each week. Then make plans to reduce your liquid calorie intake. Substitute no-calorie beverages such as Green Tea or filtered water.

Friday

Finish the week with another strength and interval workout. Try a new low-glycemic vegetable today such as squash, a yam, green beans, or spinach. The more vegetables you eat, the leaner you will get.

Saturday

Meet a friend for 30 minutes of activity. Then have a healthy lunch with your friend and swap stories and tips about how to stay on track each week. Give each other social support.

Sunday

Start your day nice and early with 30 minutes of activity followed by your planning, shopping and preparing. Pick up extra vegetables at the grocery store and commit to trying a new lean protein source.

There you go. Seven fat loss tips for the week so you lose weight and burn fat all week long. Stay lean!

You have permission to publish this article in your web sites, ezines or electronic publication, as long as the piece is used in its entirety including the resource box, all hyperlinks (HTML clickable) and references and copyright info.

Craig Ballantyne is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and writes for Men’s Health and Oxygen magazines. His trademarked Turbulence Training for Fat Loss have helped thousands of men and women with weight loss and fat burning in less than 45 minutes three times per week. Turbulence Training for Fat Loss workouts help you burn fat without long, slow cardio sessions or fancy equipment. Craig’s bodyweight workouts for fat loss help you lose fat without any equipment at all.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Ballantyne

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Drug Abuse – Much More Common Than We Might Believe

By Trevor Kugler

In this country the term “drug abuse” is a very often misused term. When you hear or read the term “drug abuse”, what pops into your mind? Things like cocaine, heroine methamphetamines, marijuana, and crack, right? And you think of completely out of touch ‘junkies’ living on the streets, selling whatever they can for money, right? Or, at least the types of drugs listed here to be the ‘real’ drugs, right? These are the drugs that people abuse, right?

Drug abuse in the form of alcohol, nicotine, and prescription drugs is actually much more prevalent in our culture, but no one wants to talk about that. If you have a six pack in the comfort of your own home, you don’t abuse drugs, right? If you smoke cigarettes, while disgusting, you’re not thought of as a drug abuser are you? If you take a pill everyday, that a doctor told you that you could take, and that pill alters your ‘reality’ somehow, is that drug abuse?

No none of these things are considered ‘drug abuse’, but the reality is that they all are. Alcohol, nicotine, and prescription drugs are all just what this article is about…drugs. And if you practice any of them everyday or use them to alter your reality at all, you abuse drugs, its as simple as that. Many people don’t want to admit to this, but it is the truth. When I used to smoke, I would say that I’m no different from someone who uses cocaine on a regular basis. The fact was that I abused drugs.

I obviously abused nicotine because I smoked every hour of so. I abused alcohol because I drank beer everyday. I was as much of a drug abuser as the guy who uses heroine everyday. That’s the cold hard truth that most people don’t want to face up to. Then when I quit both practices, and my head finally cleared up, I realized that I was engaging in both practices to escape reality in some small way. I used to say things like, “a cigarette relaxes me.” Through quitting, I realized that this was a lie. And the exact same thing was true with alcohol. The bottom line is that I was abusing both of them and knew a lot of other people who were as well. Bit since my behavior was looked upon as ‘normal’ by society, it was okay.

My point to this entire article is that drug abuse is much more prevalent than we want to believe, and just because we’re told that some things are normal, that doesn’t mean that those things are the right thing for us to do. Remember what Bo Bennett said and let it ring in your heart, “Every day, people settle for less than they deserve. They are only partially living or at best living a partial life. Every human being has the potential for greatness.”

Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com. He has more than 15 years of business experience and 25 years of fishing experience. He currently raises his 3 year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country…..Montana.

A JRWFishing Must Have For Any Fisherman!

Start Catching More Fish!

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kugler

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Battle Depression with a New Outlook on Life

By Chris Robertson

Depression is a serious condition that can affect a person in all areas of their life. About 25% of all people experience some form of depression at some time in their life. Statistics show that women are affected slightly more often than men. Depression can be caused by different contributing factors. These can include physical problems, lifestyles, behavior, and relationship problems.

Recognizing Depression

Everyday life can cause ups and down in emotional health, which are completely normal. Elation comes from good experiences and happiness from joyful events. Normal sadness and grief come from loss and disappointment. But a person who suffers from depression doesn’t just feel down for a while. It is a distressing illness that causes a person to feel lonely, trapped and incapacitated.

Many times a person does not know how to battle depression because they are not aware that they are suffering from it. The common symptoms include changes in appetite, sleeping habits, lethargy, and loss of interest, fatigue, lack of concentration, feelings of worthlessness, and maybe thoughts of death or suicide.

When you have been diagnosed with depression or recognize that you have it, you need to do something about it. Sometimes doctors will prescribe a prescription to help but the side effects and dependency may not be worth it. It may be up to you to battle depression and find a new outlook to help yourself.

Battle Depression

Besides emotional causes, physical deficiencies and bad health can also contribute to depression. If you really want to battle and overcome depression you may need to take charge of your fate. A healthy diet will improve your outlook and exercise will give you renewed confidence.

Another way to battle depression is to do something nice for someone else. This takes your mind off yourself and your problems and makes you feel better. Even if you feel unhappy you can make someone else feel happy because of your thoughtfulness. Your heart and mind will be comforted as well. As we do things for others we might see deeper into ourselves and discover things we did not know.

Staying busy is also a good way to battle depression. When you are depressed, you don’t feel like doing anything, but you should make yourself do something. You may not feel like finishing a task but it is better than being idle and having too much time to think self-defeating thoughts.

Seek Help from Others around You

Trying to figure out the answers to questions such as “who are we” and “why are we here” without help from others will not encourage healing thoughts. Sometimes we need others to shed light on our situation and to help us get through the depression. This may be a friend, spiritual mentor, or someone else. There are even self-help books to help you overcome moments of depression such as the Human Operations Manual that was written by Lyndon Allicock (distributed by NUCOM Systems).

Don’t Give in to Depression

In our modern civilization there are many ways to get help. We can do our part to bring peace and goodwill to others and help redesign civilization. If we battle depression in our lives, we may make a difference in someone else’s life or future. Find a way to be productive and have a purpose for living each day. Who knows which one of us could contribute to peace on earth and alter the fate of the world?

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Battle Depression – New Outlook or Majon’s New Age directory.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson

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Addiction Recovery: Ten Simple Steps to a Strong Aftercare Plan

By Larry Smith

In the last article, I discussed why it is imperative to have an aftercare plan to help you recover from addiction. So, what needs to be included in your aftercare plan?

My friend Donny has graciously given me permission to reprint his aftercare plan. He has over seven years of sobriety to his credit and still follows this plan to this very date.

1. I will attend 3 AA meetings each week.

How many 12 step meetings do you think you require? If you are unsure, ask your sponsor. In early sobriety, it is often necessary to attend meetings on a daily basis.

2. I will call my sponsor once a week.

Remember your sponsor is your mentor. He has experienced the agony, obstacles and unexpected twists and turns in his own recovery. Call him often and tell him honestly how you are feeling and the problems you are facing. The chances are very likely that he has experienced the same thing and can offer help.

3. I will attend the aftercare program from my treatment centre each Tuesday.

If your treatment centre does not offer any such program, seek out a 12 step study group or equivalent.

4. I will make 3 phone calls a week to recovery people.

It is extremely important to keep in contact with your recovery peers. You are helping each other keep clean and sober. You need to keep reminding each other to keep on working your program. You are going to have plenty of bad days, but always remember that you don’t have to suffer alone! Pick up the phone even if it weighs a thousand pounds!

5. I will eat 3 meals a day

Daily nutrition is part of your overall recovery program. Unless you are properly nourished, it is impossible to think or act properly. At the very least, make sure that you eat 3 meals a day.

6. I will read my meditation book on a daily basis.

You have to feed your mind and your spirit as well as your body. A great way to feed your mind and spirit is by reading a short passage from one of the many inspirational daily meditation books that are available. It is a great way to start your day.

7. I will make my bed daily to remind myself that I am in recovery

Pick a simple daily task such as making your bed to remind yourself that you are in recovery. Simple daily reminders are essential and will help strengthen your recovery program.

8. I will exercise 3-4 times per week.

Recovery from addiction involves the mind, body and spirit. Physical fitness plays a huge role in the recovery from addiction but it is often minimized and deemed as unimportant. Regular exercise releases “endorphins” the body’s natural feel good biochemical compounds. Make sure that you exercise regularly and that it is in balance with rest of your recovery program.

9. I will spend 20 minutes a day quietly in meditation.

Life can often become overwhelming and stressful. An effective way to help calm your stressed body is by sitting quietly or meditating for 20 – 30 minutes daily. There are numerous ways to meditate. “Google” meditation and find a way that works for you.

10. I will read my aftercare plan daily each morning to make sure I am following it.

Be accountable to following your aftercare plan. The easiest way is by making a check list and examining it daily.

If you sincerely desire long-term sobriety, it is crucial that you follow through with your aftercare plan.

Live a life of freedom and love.

Do it now!

Dr. Larry Smith Chiropractor and Author of:

Embrace the Journey of Recovery: From Tragedy to Triumph!

Are You Recovering From Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

“If your answer is yes, then this book is for you!”

Embrace the Journey of Recovery will passionately reignite your spirit and teach you how to confront, conquer and powerfully triumph over addiction, cancer or any other life threatening illness! Is addiction a genuine life threatening illness like cancer? If so, then why is it concealed behind a wall of shame and denial?

Discover the answer and experience the remarkable story of two courageous yet ordinary individuals and their astonishing recoveries from heartbreaking tragedy. Find out how a cancer survivor and an alcoholic mutually support each other and passionately embrace the journey of recovery.

Their message is simple. They transformed their lives and you can too!

To find out more about this exciting new book click here:

embracingthejourneybook.com/

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_Smith

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Coping with Stress, Murders, Media and Our Denial

By L. John Mason

It is unfortunate. The news media is full of stories that indicate that stress levels are higher than ever before and denial is still the “preferred” coping strategy. Today, as I write this article, the radio, TV, newspapers, and internet are screaming about a South Korean college student who killed 32 fellow students and teachers at Virginia Tech in Virginia. The pundits are raging that stress is at higher levels than ever before “especially for college students.” The rumors discuss the lack of mental health support and the sales of guns to “unstable” people including this college student.

Everyone in our society is impacted by increased stress, not just college students. Our society is not alone. Many societies and cultures around our planet are feeling the pressure of increased pressures and stress. It is common to read stories about people “going postal,” “road raging,” “freaking out,” “rage-a-holics,” “being uptight,” and “losing it.” We are more fragile than ever before. We have less support and have higher expectations. There is more substance abuse practiced by people who are trying to “cope.” There is more “high test” caffeine feeding busy schedules and more commercials regarding sleeping problems.

There is, in fact, an increasing lack of common sense and we are seeing the dramatic effects in the news media.

Average Americans are not the only ones who seem to be victims. Our young men and women are returning from their military tours of duty with more post-traumatic stress dysfunction. Poor understanding and lack of support plague our returning heroes. Our future will be filled with the stories regarding these service people and how they process their experience from their time in uniform.

Our emergency responders, fire personnel, police, and emergency medical responders, are also suffering from PTSD and are becoming a huge concern for police and fire departments. Our society will be taxed to cope with these issues.

Stress can not be avoided. Traumas will continue to make the headlines. The way that we respond and the support that we must be prepared to offer become the parts of these challenges that we can control. We can do something! We do not have to suffer as “victims!” Commitment to prevention will be needed to prepare our children for the increasing stressful world they must live. Parents need to manage their stress and be the role-models that will prepare themselves and their children for the future. “Sticking our heads in the sand” is not the best way to cope with this epidemic of stress. Denial will only work for so long!

Awareness is half the battle. Support and teaching people how to be effective in dealing with stress is the second half of the fight. I know from personal and professional experience that taking time to practice regular stress management will actually save time and energy, in the long run. Practicing preventive stress management will also improve the quality of life and enhance performance.

We will never see the headlines devoid of stories generated by poorly managed emotional stress, but we can hope to improve this situation and have much better support and coping strategies in place. This is especially necessary for the support of our service men and women, our police personnel, and our fire fighters. Better support for our children, our parents, and our seniors would also offer good results. In fact, all of us who must interact with our increasingly stressful society could benefit. So let’s pull our heads out of the sand and confront this situation.

Please go out of your way to take good care of yourself!

L. John Mason, Ph.D. is the author of the best selling “Guide to Stress Reduction.” Since 1977, he has offered Success & Executive Coaching and Training.

Please visit the Stress Education Center’s website at Stress, Stress Management, Coaching, and Training for articles, free ezine signup, and learn about the new telecourses that are available. If you would like information or a targeted proposal for training or coaching, please contact us at (360) 593-3833.

If you are looking to promote your training or coaching career, please investigate the Professional Stress Management Training and Certification Program for a secondary source of income or as career path.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=L._John_Mason

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A Cure for Mesothelioma?

By Declan Kerin

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a most lethal cancer. It has unusual characteristics. The more I look at it the more I am convinced it does not behave like a true solid tissue cancer.

• Serosal membranes very rarely become malignant except with Mesothelioma.
• It is not asbestos fiber dose dependent.
• It is not cigarette smoking dose related.
• Probably occurs only in cases where there was prior evidence of a pleurisy (benign) usually with evidence of pleural thickening.
• Latency is different (usually longer) than any other known malignancy.
• 275 day median survival is more in keeping with an uncontrollable infection (all be it a malignant one) than a solid tumor growth pattern.
• Simian 40 virus DNA parts have been found in mesothelioma specimens.
• Rarely if ever found as a distant metastasis (e.g. brain or liver spread).

I believe it is a viral infection gone malignant e.g. HIV type malignant behavior so that it looks more like asbestos fiber activation of a common virus infection in turn causing a variety of clinical conditions. Many of these clinical conditions can be quite innocuous. In benign pleural effusions we don’t find a pleural cavity full of asbestos needles – It would appear we haven’t been culturing for the right agent.

If Mesothelioma is a rogue viral infection – then there is the possibility of developing a vaccine and offering vaccination to asbestos exposed people who are at heightened risk of developing future asbestos related malignancies.

Q: Is asbestos a co-carcinogen to a viral infection?
A: Needs to be studied…

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Declan_Kerin

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Addiction Recovery: Top 5 Reasons Why You Need an Aftercare Plan

By Larry Smith

If you have a desire to recover from the disease of addiction, you must take certain steps to increase your chances of long-term recovery. Residential treatment is a great place to start you on your road to recovery. Program lengths may vary from 30 days to several months. If you have just returned home from a treatment centre, it is imperative that you have an after care plan and follow it 100%. Below are the top 5 reasons why you must follow your after care plan:

1. You are 100% responsible for your own recovery — Nobody else can do it for you!

You have the ultimate responsibility of staying clean and sober. Since it is your responsibility, the best way to ensure long-term success is to have an after care plan. An after care plan is a series of tasks you must complete each day to increase your chances of long term sobriety. Some examples of aftercare tasks include going to meetings, calling your sponsor and performing exercise regularly.

2. New behaviors, attitudes and skills require practice

The skills, knowledge and attitudes learned at your residential treatment program are still somewhat new to you. If have learned how to share your feeling with others and ask for help, it is important for you to keep on practicing these skills. Do you know of any professional athletes who do not practice skills in between games and in the off season? Keep practicing the skills, attitudes and knowledge you acquired at the treatment centre and make that part of your after care plan.

3. Old behaviors will quickly return unless you have new behaviors to replace them

Have you been visiting the local bar or liquor store after work on a regular basis for the past 30 years? If so, it is an excellent idea to plan another healthy activity to take its place. Try walking in the park, going to the gym or visiting a friend in recovery instead. Old habits do not die easily or quickly. Draw up a list of the rituals you had when you were actively addicted. Replace the unhealthy old behaviors with healthier new behaviors. Be creative, have fun and ask for help from your recovery friends.

4. You are setting a good example for your peers and for society

It is an absolute gift to be able to recover from the life threatening illness of addiction. If your peers see you working hard on your recovery program, they can use that as an example to work hard on their recovery programs. If the people in your community see you as an active healthy person, it demonstrates that there is plenty of hope for those still suffering! If you want to set a good example for your peers and for society, you must follow a regimented and thoughtful aftercare plan.

5. Your disease will always be waiting for you

The only possible chance you have of remaining clean and sober is through consistent practice of healthy habits. Don’t be tempted to check out your former bar to see how the old gang is doing. Do you really think that anybody who walks into a brothel in the red light district is remotely interested in learning how to dance? Do most people who go to the bar sip on a soft drink all night? Remember that your disease is always waiting for you. Don’t let the door open even a crack.

Although there are countless other reasons that can be added, those are my top 5 reasons why you need an aftercare plan. If you honestly follow your after care plan to the best of your ability, your chances of recovery will increase dramatically. It has often been said that “the worst day in sobriety is still much better than the best day of addiction.”

Dr. Larry Smith Chiropractor and Author of:

Embrace the Journey of Recovery: From Tragedy to Triumph!

Are You Recovering From Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

“If your answer is yes, then this book is for you!”

Embrace the Journey of Recovery will passionately reignite your spirit and teach you how to confront, conquer and powerfully triumph over addiction, cancer or any other life threatening illness! Is addiction a genuine life threatening illness like cancer? If so, then why is it concealed behind a wall of shame and denial?

Discover the answer and experience the remarkable story of two courageous yet ordinary individuals and their astonishing recoveries from heartbreaking tragedy. Find out how a cancer survivor and an alcoholic mutually support each other and passionately embrace the journey of recovery.

Their message is simple. They transformed their lives and you can too!

To find out more about this exciting new book click here:

embracingthejourneybook.com/

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_Smith

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Test Your Knowledge With The Obesity Quiz

A reader has forwarded to me the following:

Dear Webmaster,

I would like to suggest a resource for your site, Battling-Obesity.com.

It seems a lot of your readers are interested in being healthy and losing weight. Here is an obesity quiz you may find useful: (see link below)

Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Well .. I went to the link, and think it is a great “Tool & Resource” filled with many quizes for your general health and wellness .. including: BMI Calculator, Cholesterol Quiz, Healthy Body Weight Calculator, Heart Rate Calculator, Hip-to-Waist Ratio Calculator, Lifestyle Quiz, Lower Back Pain Quiz, Osteoporosis Quiz, Sleep Health … and OBESITY QUIZ.

From their Site:

How Much Do You Know About Obesity?

Sixty-six percent of US adults are overweight. Thirty-two percent of US adults are also obese. And, about 17 percent of US children are seriously overweight. Take this true/false quiz with eight questions to see how much you know about obesity. After each question, you will find out if your answer is correct or incorrect, and information about health risks and healthy choices will be provided.

* TAKE THE OBESITY QUIZ – from the Medical University of South Carolina – Interactive Tools & Resources

If you have any interesting sites or want to reciprocal link on our LINKS page .. just drop me a line … hart (at) PetLvr (dot) com

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Fitness Habits and Losing Weight

By Eric Cho

These days just about everyone you meet is looking to lose a few pounds. In fact, obesity is the number one health problem facing the developed world today. Fitness habits and losing weight go hand in hand in resolving this issue.

Some may think that the answer is pretty straightforward. The basic theory is that in order to lose weight a person must take in fewer calories than are burned for the same 24 hour period. However, calorie reduction which happens too quickly will cause the body to think it is starving and thus it begins to store fat so that it can be used later by the body as a food supply.

That means that in order to be successful in reducing calories it will need to be done slowly while increasing the level of fitness. Physical activity is an important part of the formula to lose weight.

There are simple things that a person can do to increase their fitness level. Too often it’s assumed a gym membership is a requirement and although that might be nice, for some people not being able to afford a gym membership is not a valid excuse for not getting fit.

Walking is not only cheap it is the best activity for both burning calories and keeping your heart healthy which is also very important. When a person is extremely out of shape, first consult with your doctor and once the go ahead is given, start slow for example go for a walk around the block.

Increase the speed of the walk or the duration of the walk as fitness improves and then incorporate some hills. If jogging is preferred it can also be incorporated into the workout.

Another option is to purchase fitness equipment for the home. This equipment can include rowing machines, treadmills, stationary bikes, and ski machines.

A treadmill takes up space but overall it is a great choice but they aren’t cheap. Stay away from bells and whistles and finding an affordable treadmill will not be a problem.

Stationary bikes have been around for a long time and they are also a good choice. They take up very little room, are low impact, and a great place to start getting into shape.

Rowing machines will give a total body work out and they have minimal impact on the joints which is beneficial for anyone with joint problems. However it can take a little bit of practice getting used to.

Ski machines are also a good choice for a full body workout however they do take up a fair bit of space. If space is no problem, they are an excellent choice but do start slow as injuries can occur.

Now that exercise equipment options have been covered, food now needs to be addressed. Start by doing a calorie calculation to determine the current calorie intake then reduce this by 250 to 500 calories a day. Do not reduce calorie intake by more than 500 calories or the body will go into starvation mode. To lose weight a man should be taking in on average no more than 2000 calories and a woman on average no more than 1500 calories. Of course if the daily activity level is really high then calorie intake will need to increase as well.

Fitness habits and losing weight go hand in hand because you cannot have one without the other. Combining calorie reduction with increased physical activity is the start to successful weight loss.

Thyroid Weight Loss Treatment

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Cho

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Addiction Treatment: Is Drug Addiction Easier To Treat Than Alcoholism?

By Jonathan Huttner

While many people still try and define addicts as different from alcoholics, the fact of the matter is that the definition of addiction or alcoholism is almost identical. The main difference is that one is liquid in nature, while the other can take on a variety of forms. The overall effects of addiction or alcoholism are exactly the same.

Drug Addiction Treatment Versus Alcoholism Treatment

Since the medical profession has come to see drug addiction and alcoholism as primarily the same disease, there is little difference in drug addiction or alcoholism treatment. While it is true that different medications may be used in a drug rehab, addiction treatment center or alcohol treatment program while the patient is in detox, addiction treatment philosophy or alcohol treatment philosophy are primarily the same.

The most significant difference does not lie in addiction treatment or alcohol treatment, but is found in the addict’s or alcoholic’s perception of the other. The “pure alcoholic” views the addict as a criminal and state they can not relate to their lifestyle or why they would even take drugs, while the addict views the alcoholic as their worst nightmare. The irony is that the behavior and thinking that accompanies their journey through addiction or alcoholism is identical. Whether in addiction treatment or alcoholism treatment, denial, resentment, dishonesty, shame, compulsive behavior, low self esteem and failed relationships all accompany people recovering from addiction or alcoholism.

There are several valuable sources of information alcoholism and drug addiction treatment available on the web. At the National Institute on Drug Abuse you can find information for professionals, for teachers, for the general public and, most importantly, for parents. At RecoveryConnection.org you will find information on treatment options as well as help to find an alcohol and drug rehab facility. Remember that if you or someone you know need immediate assistance, RecoveryConnection.org also offers a helpline 24/7 through their toll-free number: 1(800)993-3869. Don’t hesitate to call for help for an alcoholic or drug addict, you may be saving a life.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the the principals at Lakeview Health Systems, an addiction treatment,

alcohol and drug rehab facility.

Addiction treatment information and free live help 24/7 is being provided online at

RecoveryConnection.org.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Huttner

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Understanding Cervical Cancer

By Ingrid Tiessen

Cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women worldwide. It is also one of the most preventable types of cancer.

Cervical cell changes are often caused by a sexually transmitted virus called the human papilloma virus or ‘HPV’. Most HPV infections will clear on their own once the immune system has dealt with it,and not lead to cervical cancer. Often, a woman infected with HPV will never know that she has been infected.

When a woman goes for her annual Pap test, the changes in the cervix are detected. A doctor is not usually alarmed by slight changes, as this can be caused by irritation or inflammation of the cervix, and will recommend retesting in 6 months. If, however, the changes do not revert back to normal, further testing is required to deal with possible precancerous tissue.

As long as regular testing is done, precancerous cells can be removed usually with no long term problems for the patient. Thankfully, truly invasive cervical cancer takes years to develop, but it is best to have it treated as soon as possible for peace of mind, and to avoid complications down the road.

Call your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms, as they may be a symptom of cervical changes or cancer:

• Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Unusual vaginal discharge

• Abnormal bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods

Do not be afraid to tell your doctor anything that concerns you. It is your body and you have a right to protect your health. They’ve heard it all before, please don’t feel embarrassed!

Ingrid Tiessen writes about health and lifestyle issues, and has undergone treatment for cervical dysplasia. To learn more, visit her blog, cervdysplasia.blogspot.com/

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ingrid_Tiessen

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It’s nice to have a place where we can walk the dogs

I took my camera out with me last weekend while we were out walking the dogs. Behind our condo complex, is the Sturgeon Creek. On both sides there are sidewalks and fields, and we can walk for miles and miles in either direction. The snow is just melting, and there is no green grass yet .. and the water levels are a bit high .. but it’s still nice to get out and walk the dogs. So, here are some pictures! I should be doing this more often, but the pictures usually end up on my Pet related blogs instead 🙂

* Google Map: This is general view of my backyard .. I live on the left side where the arrow is

* Google Map: Here is a close up of above under the “Sturgeon Creek Parkway” notation is, bottom right side of the above

* This is a picture of what that looks like closeup .. it’s at Cuthbert Grant’s Mill

It’s a little history in our backyard …

The watermill known as Grant’s Old Mil occupies the site of the Red River Settlement’s first mill built in 1829.

It was established by Cuthbert Grant who was the leader of the Metis at the Battle of Seven Oaks. Grant’s Old Mill is on a tributary of the Assiniboine River and is the final incarnation of multiple previous mills that were washed away by frequent floods.

The mill is open to the public and provides a glimpse of a real working water powered mill. Samples of stone ground wheat can be tasted. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and the area surrounding Grant’s Old Mill is perfect for picnics or just laying out in the sun. Located directly behind Grant’s Old Mill is the Grace Hospital.

SOURCE

* Here are some more pictures of the walkway and area .. nothing really that exciting, except open space to walk our dogs Maxxie and Sophie .. who like to sniff everything and pee at every corner marking their way home!

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A Work Out Partner Can Increase The Success Of Your Weight Loss And Fitness Program

By Beth Campbell

This is the time of year that many of us are embarking on a new diet plan or exercise program. While some few of us may be able to maintain our good intentions without help, most of us could benefit greatly from a work out partner. There are many benefits to having someone to work out with and with whom you can discuss your weight loss and fitness progress. I know this personally from having worked out alone and also from having a work out partner.

Having a partner that you know is expecting you to be at the gym or at the running track at a certain time will help keep you motivated to go at times when you might otherwise make excuses. Also knowing that you not showing up may make the other person’s work out harder for them to do alone may also give you some added incentive to show up.

Your actual work out is often more pleasant and seems to go faster if you have someone to talk with while doing such boring activities as walking on the treadmill or riding the stationary bike. Having a partner also gives you someone to support and encourage you. Hearing someone else say that you are improving or that you are doing a great job makes you feel good about your time spend working out. In addition, if you are including weight training in your fitness routine, it may be advisable to have a spotter.

If you and your partner have losing weight or fat as a goal, this also gives you someone to compare notes with as far as how you are doing following your diet. Both of you keeping a food journal and discussing it with each other can help give you input as to why you may be having trouble. If you are not having trouble but are doing great, you can help motivate the other person by sharing your success.

So, how do you find a work out partner? If you are already a member of a gym or fitness center, the staff might be able to suggest other members who have the same fitness goals as you. If not, try noticing which members seem to be at the gym at the same times as you and have similar routines, strike up a friendly conversation with them and see if they might be interested in working out together. Some gyms also have a bulletin board where you can post a note that you are looking for a work out partner.

Even if you do not belong to a gym, you may be able to find someone by mentioning to your friends that you are looking for someone to walk with for example. There may be someone at work that you hear mention that they are trying to get fit or lose weight. You might ask them if they would like a work out or support partner.

Most of us do much better at achieving our goals if we have the help and encouragement of someone else. Your chances of success in weight loss and fitness are no different.

I have lost 122 pounds. My story and contact email can be seen at www.SecretofLosingWeight.Com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beth_Campbell

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Why Smoking Leads to Drugs and Addiction

By Christopher Ruane

Well its no surprise that many people know about the harmful effects of smoking even if some of them refuse to quit because of self denial. However, what is less commonly known is the fact that if you are not quitting smoking, there is a risk of other forms of addictive behavior occuring, including use of illicit drugs and addiction to these substances also.

So how do you get addicted to anything in the first place ?

Ok, let us state just exactly what is meant by addiction.

Psychologists define addiction as something that refers to the state of being dependent on something. It could either be psychological or physical, but whatever it is, addiction is a persistent urge to repeat everything that caused the person’s craving of euphoria or high.

Addictive behavior is triggered by the formation of cravings or desire. When these cravings are satisfied and met, another craving will soon start again with the same or greater intensity.Once this has happened, an addiction pattern is starting up.

Addiction with nicotine

Where cigarette smoking is concerned, the craving is for nicotine. In fact, nicotine is now recognized as one of the most addictive substances around and quitting smoking becomes so very hard. So, when a person smokes, the nicotine goes very quickly into the brain, rather like a direct injection. it is often done to ease stress and anxiety at work and home.

However, after a few stress free minutes, the anxiety feeling sets back in with the same or greater intensity and you start again. People who use smoking as an outlet to release tension and stress are already addicted. Period.

Smoking and its effects on your brain

This is where the brain chemicals (or hormonal transmitters) are directly affected by the substances in cigarettes smoking. Once smoking provides a calming effect upon a person, it gives a kind of incentive to repeat the process, and the new habit leads to addiction. Can I also point out that you are five times more likely to get alzheimers disease if you are a smoker . With medical care, our lives are getting longer and this illness will affect people in their eighties and beyond. Do not let it start sooner because of smoking.

Moreover, some experts contend that a person who lights up a cigarette from the end of his or her previous one is already an addict. They have this intense feeling to continue lighting one cigarette after another. What’s even more alarming with the situation is that there had been some reports that experts insist that nicotine, along side with marijuana, are some of the hardest type of drugs to treat and eliminate out of the body.

The dopamine pleasure factor

The satisfaction a person gets whenever they inhale nicotine is totally rewarding for them. This is because the discharge of the “pleasure hormone” known as dopamine.That’s why people who are tensed get immediate relief whenever they inhale smoke.

Of course the body has anti stress hormones which it can release throughout the day. If fact if this did not occur, some people could almost suffer a heart attack through shock to the system ! So any substance that triggers this dopamine release and high will cause addictive behavior.

Smoking and the liver

Almost every organ can be affected by the inhalation of cigarette smoke. No one part of you escapes unscathed. The stomach gets irritated and you can get an ulcer. Even the liver can be affected when it is processing prescription drugs out of your body with certain drugs.It is alright if you dont stop quitting nicotine first time around. Keep trying.

Smoking can affects mens’ health leading to coronary problems such as high blood pressure and stroke, not forgeting other issues such as impotence. To learn about illnesses affecting your health visit www.manhealthsite.com today!

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Ruane

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Advanced Prostate Cancer – Options For Treatment

By Donald Saunders

Prostate cancer normally develops within the peripheral area of the prostate gland and this initially small area of cancerous tissue cannot be felt on a digital rectal examination (DRE) but is often picked up through a PSA test or an ultrasound examination. At this point prostate cancer is described as being in Stage I or is described as a T1 cancer.

As the cancerous region grows within the prostate it will create abnormalities which can now be felt during a DRE and, at this point, the disease is said to have progressed to Stage II or become a T2 cancer.

In both Stage I and Stage II cancer is confined to the prostate gland and is normally treated surgically, with radiation therapy, with cryosurgery or using ultrasound.

As the cancer continues to grow it will spread into surrounding tissues within the pelvic area and will move into Stage III or be classed as a T3 cancer. Finally, prostate cancer cells will be carried to regions of the body outside of the pelvic area and prostate cancer reaches Stage IV or becomes a T4 cancer. It is these two stages of the disease that are classed as being “advanced prostate cancer”.

The treatment of advanced prostate cancer is aimed principally at slowing the spread of the disease, providing the best possible quality of life for the patient and extending the patient’s life as far as is possible. Although it is possible to cure prostate cancer, particularly in Stage III, the advanced nature of the disease makes this a difficult task and the reality of the situation is that treatment at this point generally represents management of the disease rather than a cure for it.

As prostate cancer cells require male hormones (such as testosterone) to grow, the main form of treatment for advanced prostate cancer is hormone treatment to reduce the production of testosterone.

Hormone therapy may include the use of drugs to reduce testosterone levels in the body or to block the action of testosterone and other male hormones. Treatment options will also include the removal of the testicles (orchiectomy) which produce 95% of the testosterone found in the body.

In some cases of Stage IV cancer hormone therapy may not be effective, or may have only limited results, and patients may require systematic radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

For further information on advanced prostate cancer please visit ProstateCancerExplained.com today.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Saunders

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Glycemic Index: Should GI Guide Your Food Choices?

By Gabe Mirkin, M.D.

Many popular diet books recommend avoiding foods with a high Glycemic Index. When you eat a food, your blood sugar level rises. The food that raises blood sugar the highest is pure table sugar. The Glycemic Index (GI) is a ratio of how high a food raises blood sugar in comparison to table sugar. Foods whose carbohydrates break down slowly release glucose into the bloodstream slowly, so blood sugar levels do not rise high and therefore these foods have low GI scores. Those that break down quickly cause a high rise in blood sugar and have a high GI. Most beans, whole grains and non-starchy vegetables have low GI; while sugars, refined grains, fruits and root vegetables have a high GI.

A carrot has almost the same GI as sugar, but common sense tells you that a carrot is more healthful than table sugar. Foods that are mostly water or air will not cause a steep rise in your blood sugar even if their GI is high. That’s why a new measure, called Glycemic Load (GL), is more useful. This tells you how much sugar is in a portion of food as well as how high it raises blood sugar levels. GL is calculated by multiplying the grams of carbohydrate in a serving of food by that food’s glycemic index. Carrots dropped from high GI of 131 to a GL of 10. Potatoes fall from a GI of 121 to a GL of 45. Air-popped popcorn, with a GI of 79, has a GL of 4.

GI and GL indexes are tools for research that will drive you crazy if you try to apply them to your daily selection of foods. Instead, use your own common sense and eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and other seeds. If you are diabetic, you can eat root vegetables and fruits with other foods to slow the rise in blood sugar they may cause.

For more on GL and sensible nutrition, read “Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy: The Harvard Medical School Guide to Healthy Eating” (Simon & Schuster, June 2001), by Harvard School of Public Health professor and researcher Walter Willett, M.D — highly recommended.

Subscribe to my FREE weekly newsletter on fitness, health, and nutrition.

Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports — and the FREE Good Food Book — at www.DrMirkin.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabe_Mirkin,_M.D.

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