Conditions and Diseases: 01/01/2013

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Laura Kray: The Potent Power Of Asking 'What If..?'

Click here to read an original op-ed from the TED speaker who inspired this post and watch the TEDTalk below.

"Jamal Malik is one question away from winning 20 million rupees. How did he do it? (A) He
cheated, (B) He's lucky, (C) He's a genius, and (D) It is written." -- Slumdog Millionaire, 2008

In the opening scene of the critically acclaimed film, a title card appears on the screen to raise the possibility that fate has intervened to guarantee that an uneducated orphan from the slums of Mumbai will defy the odds and become a game show champion. Throughout the film the possibility that Jamalʼs quest would end in failure looms large. Ultimately, the sheer improbability of his success suggests the universe conspired to provide a set of questions that he was uniquely suited to answer. In so doing, Jamal was reunited with Latika, his first and only true love, and his romantic destiny was fulfilled. Viewers are left with the sense that something so improbable could not have happened by chance alone, and the underdogʼs fate must have been written in the stars. Indeed, the filmʼs immense popularity is most likely enhanced by its universally appealing storyline: seemingly random and disconnected events are, in some unfathomable sense, intertwined by fate.

As a researcher at UC Berkeleyʼs Haas School of Business, I study how people reflect on fateful experiences to construct the story of their lives. Let me ask you, have you ever considered how your life would be different if certain pivotal experiences, or turning points, hadnʼt occurred? The scientific term for reflecting about "what might have been" is counterfactual thinking. It turns out that, rather than immobilizing us with regret, actively "what iffing" can help us to see our destiny more clearly. Even painful experiences, like loss of loved ones, can come to be appreciated for the growth and learning that they brought about by imagining how your life would be different had these events not occurred.

Reminding ourselves that life could have turned out differently helps us not only to understand why events took one turn rather than another, but also gives greater meaning to the turn that events did take. - Laura Kray

Science has made great strides in identifying the errors and biases plaguing human cognition. The mind is good at playing tricks, even to the point of seeing patterns where none exist. Yet much of life is inherently subjective. Like reactions to art and music, we spontaneously sense greatness rather than choose it through rational analysis. Even moral judgments, once likened to a deliberate, analytical process are now seen as deriving from hard-to-articulate intuitions. Likewise, we experience meaning in life as an intensely personal sense of knowing and agency that cannot be refuted by material reality. In Manʼs Search for Meaning, Viktor Frankl, a concentration camp survivor, noted, "He who has a why to live for can bear with almost any how." To find meaning in even horrific life circumstances is to survive, and thereʼs nothing illusory about that. Weaving a coherent personal life narrative by seeing how a given event brought about benefits (i.e. "by experiencing this loss, I am now a humbler, more authentic person") lays the foundation for a more generative life, one in which we go beyond ourselves to contribute to the greater good.

Letʼs take the example of the holiday classic, Itʼs a Wonderful Life. In this film, Jimmy Stewartʼs character George Bailey is saved from ruin by an angel who guides him through the process of imagining what life would be like if George had never existed. By thinking counterfactually, George counts his blessings and experiences a more meaningful life.

Are you ready to go down the rabbit hole of possibilities with your own life? Start with a moment or episode from your past in which rapid, intense, and clear change occurred, such that your life was never the same again. Everyone has these turning points, whether initiated internally or from external forces. Got it? Now, thoughtfully consider who you would be today if the turning point incident had never occurred. Where might you be? How might your most important relationships be different? How might your beliefs, values and feelings be altered? Are there any other details about this imagined life that you can picture?

Considering how our lives might have been different helps to connect the dots among our life experiences. The contrast between reality and what might have been shines a light on the opportunities, relationships, and achievements that wouldnʼt have occurred without these key elements in our life story. Reminding ourselves that life could have turned out differently helps us not only to understand why events took one turn rather than another, but also gives greater meaning to the turn that events did take. When we see that this imagined world no longer fits our evolving life story, we accept and embrace life as it is. And when we believe our lives are as they were meant to be, we experience the gratification of being on the right track, living the good life, and, ultimately, fulfilling our purpose in life.

Ideas are not set in stone. When exposed to thoughtful people, they morph and adapt into their most potent form. TEDWeekends will highlight some of today's most intriguing ideas and allow them to develop in real time through your voice! Tweet #TEDWeekends to share your perspective or email tedweekends@hufﬁngtonpost.com to learn about future weekend's ideas to contribute as a writer.

More in Why We Deceive Ourselves (Sometimes)

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

TA-65 Telomerase Activator - Key to Longevity

If you ask what is the most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is length of your telomeres. And if you didn't ask me, I'd still have to say it. TA-65 is what we have all been waiting for. At no time in history has anything like this been available and you owe it to yourself to try this product as the ultimate anti-aging intervention. Source

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Regaining Your Youthful Metabolism With HGH Supplements

Regaining Your Youthful Metabolism With HGH Supplements
Aging - this could just be one of the many battles that all of us fight as the years go by. Although it is an inevitable part of the human life cycle, we all make efforts to maintain that vitality and youthful glow we once had during our younger years. However, recent discoveries about HGH or the Human Growth Hormone have brought new hopes about regaining those energy levels back while keeping those ugly fats and wrinkles at bay. But the big question is this - could HGH supplements be the ultimate solution against the natural signs of aging? Let's find out!
Source: EzineArticles.com

Monday, January 28, 2013

Car Commuters Weigh More -- Even When They Exercise

Jan 28 (Reuters) - People who drive to work every day are packing on slightly more weight than their colleagues who use trains, buses and bicycles to get to work, even if they exercise in their spare time, according to an Australian study.

"Even if you are efficiently active during leisure time, if you use a car for commuting daily then that has an impact on weight gain," said lead author Takemi Sugiyama of the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute in Melbourne.

Among people in the study who got at least two and half hours of weekly exercise, car commuters gained an average of 1.8 kilograms (4 lbs) over four years - about half a kilogram (1 pound) more than people who got to work another way, or who worked from home.

Of 822 study participants, only those who got enough weekly exercise and never drove to work managed to stave off any weight gain over the course of the study.

Participants who didn't get enough weekly exercise also gained weight, but now much they gained wasn't tied to their mode of getting to work, according to results published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

"Simply achieving the amount of moderate physical activity otherwise recommended won't provide enough compensation to overcome the effect of commuting for a long period of time," said Lawrence Frank of the School of Community and Regional Planning at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

There are probably other factors at work that were not considered in the study, noted Frank, who was not involved in the research.

"People who have longer commutes tend to purchase a lot of their food and run a lot of errands on their way to and from work," which influence weight gain, he said.

In addition, 80 percent of car trips are non-commuting.

Previous studies that focused on total time spent in cars per day have also found a link to becoming overweight or obese.

A 2004 study of adults in Atlanta, Georgia, found that each additional hour of time spent in a car each day was associated with a six percent increase in the chances of obesity.

In Australia, about 80 percent of working adults take a car to work every day. In the United States, that figure is 86 percent.

"Commuting is a truly important predictor of obesity," Frank said.

Many of those people don't have another option, said Sugiyama, noting that it's the responsibility of government to provide public transport to and from work, and design neighborhoods where short walks are accessible.

"The message is, if possible try to avoid cars, but for many people that sort of choice isn't available," he said. SOURCE: http://bit.ly/VvDxYB

(Reporting from New York by Kathryn Doyle at Reuters Health; editing by Elaine Lies)

Also on HuffPost:

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Healthier Versions Of 12 Classic Brunch Foods

Omelets

People who opt for eggs in the morning have a leg up on bagel and cereal eaters -- <a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/benefits-of-eggs">eggs will keep you full for longer</a> than those empty carbs. Still, it's a smart idea to opt for omelets made mostly from egg whites, says Forberg, with "maybe one whole egg for the yolk texture and flavor." (A good rule of thumb is a 3 to 1 ratio of egg whites to egg yolks, adds Bauer.) A make-your-own omelet is your best bet, says Foung, since you control what gets tossed into the mix. "Stick to fresh additions (like tomatoes, avocado and herbs) and steer clear of cured meats and items like spinach and even mushrooms that can get cooked in salted water or butter before hitting the eggs." If cooking for yourself at home, go for whatever fresh veggies you prefer, says Forberg, and try adding "a little crumble of goat cheese or a dusting of Parmesan."

French Toast

If you're in the mood for French toast, there's little on the menu that will satisfy your craving in a healthier way. Just stick to one slice -- and opt for whole grain bread if it's on the menu, says Forberg. Go easy on the syrup and order a side of lean protein like eggs or Canadian Bacon and fresh fruit. "Just don't eat only a stack of buttery, syrup-drenched French toast," she says. When making your own batch at home, opt for whole wheat bread or even Ezekial sprouted bread, says Bauer, for some extra fiber and protein.

Pancakes And Waffles

These bready goodies are also hard to makeover in the restaurant setting, so make sure portion sizes are reasonable and eat them with a lean protein and fresh fruit. If you're cooking them up at home, try going whole grain. "Whole grain flours have so much more texture and flavor," says Forberg. Or, says Bauer, try oatmeal pancakes. She offers this recipe: "Take a package of plain instant oatmeal, mix with four egg whites, a sprinkle of cinnamon and two tablespoons of whipped cottage cheese. Pour into a skillet to create whatever size pancake pleases you and cook until bubbles form on top. Turn and cook until done."

Bloody Marys

The standard for anyone who believes in the hair of the dog approach, a Bloody Mary, while, yes, containing vegetables, can also pack <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/Brunch-Beverage-Breakdown-200477">up to 300 calories</a>. Not to mention all that salt. "Prepared vegetable juices are loaded with sodium," says Foung, "so your best bet here is to make the veggie juice at home and spice it up yourself." She recommends using a veggie with natural sodium, like <a href="http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2348/2">beets</a>. If you've got a real hankering, at the very least stick to just one.

Muffins

Is it because sometimes they're made from oat bran? Or stuffed with fruit? Whatever the reason, muffins have developed a health halo they don't entirely deserve. Truth is, many have <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/content/dunkindonuts/en/menu/nutrition/nutrition_catalog.html?filt_type=Bakery&nutrition_catalog_hidden=0&nutrition_catalog_needType=Food&nutrition_catalog_selPage=1&nutrition_catalog_perPage=100">more calories, fat and sugar than donuts</a>, so stick to small ones. The perfect portion is about the <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/03/portion-size/">size of a lightbulb</a>.

Eggs Benedict

The components in this classic dish add up to trouble. "Opt for untraditional versions," says Foung, "like Eggs Florentine or other kinds that swap things like tomatoes, spinach and other veggies for the bread and ham." And think about what you can eliminate completely. Half of the English muffin will do, says Forberg. "And do you really need the Hollandaise sauce?"

Hash Browns And Home Fries

Be aware, says Foung, that if your favorite brunch spot uses packaged potatoes, those spuds may already be seasoned (read: high in sodium) -- before the chef adds even a touch of salt. "Always ask if they make them fresh," she says. Even if they do, fried spuds won't give your brunch much of a nutritional boost. "We already have enough carbs in our breakfasts without adding potatoes," says Forberg. However, you can up the health factor at home by swapping in a sweet potato or yam, says Bauer, and going easy on the oil. She swears by the following: "Heat three tablespoons olive oil in a large frying pan on medium high heat. Add one pound grated yams, spreading them out along the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on the yams. After a few minutes, flip the yams over all at once, with the help of a large spatula. Continue to cook until they are golden brown on the bottom."

Bagels

If you're not careful, a bagel and a schmear can run you <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/11/healthy-breakfast-ideas_n_1956560.html#slide=1628781">upwards of 400 calories</a> -- with little to offer nutritionally. Plus, the bagel itself can be surprisingly high in sodium -- before toppings. Opt for a half instead, says Foung, and to keep sodium in check, spread on unsalted butter, jam or avocado and top with fresh veggies instead of smoked salmon or bacon.

Sausage

The key to a healthier breakfast sausage is to keep it lean, says Forberg. These days, many restaurants have a chicken or turkey option, which can have <a href="http://blog.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/2012/03/30/chicken-and-turkey-sausage-a-healthy-choice/">half the calories and a quarter of the fat of pork varieties</a>.

Oatmeal

While <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/27/best-top-foods-heart-health_n_2200473.html#slide=1810997">oats</a> are certainly part of a healthy brunch, restaurant oatmeal is often <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/creamy-oatmeal-recipe/index.html">made with cream</a> or sugary toppings and mix-ins. Foung suggests asking your server how the house oatmeal is prepared -- and asking them to make it with water instead. If you're cooking up a bowl at home, stay away from instant varieties or anything that comes already flavored. Old-fashioned or steel cut oats boast the most fiber, Forberg says, and won't have that added sugar. Bauer has a heart-healthy recipe that's big on flavor thanks to chopped nuts and cinnamon without adding sugar: Ingredients 1 cup whole grain oats, aka Irish oats 4 cups unsweetened almond milk 1 pinch sea salt 1/3 cup shredded coconut 1/3 chopped nuts (almond, pecan, walnuts) Cinnamon to taste Directions Wash the oats under cold water and drain. Place them in a pot over high heat. Add the water and bring it to a boil. Add the salt and lower the heat to simmer for 45 minutes uncovered. Stir frequently to avoid the oats sticking to the bottom. When it’s done add the nuts and coconut, stir well and serve. Sprinkle some cinnamon to taste.

Yogurt With Fruit And Granola

While it might jump off the menu as the healthiest choice, a restaurant parfait could be deceiving. Granola can be sneakily high in fat, and yogurt is likely to be loaded with sugar. However, Foung points out, it's a great low-sodium choice. For twice the protein and half the carbs, pick Greek yogurt for homemade parfaits, says Forberg. "Buy it plain and add your own fresh fruit," say suggests. "Otherwise you're paying for unnecessary sugar and calories."

Orange Juice

While a glass of OJ gets a healthy rep for being "practically" fruit, juices pack all the calories of fruit but without the filling fiber, meaning it won't do anything to quench your hunger. Plus, if you're tempted to order a glass in the name of flu protection, know that <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/07/070718002136.htm">vitamin C isn't all its cracked up to be</a> when it comes to staving off germs. "It's okay now and then," says Forberg. "But I'd rather see you eat a whole orange!"

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Gene Gurkoff: A Parkinson's App?

Click here to read an original op-ed from the TED speaker who inspired this post and watch the TEDTalk below.

My grandfather has Parkinson's disease. So, on behalf of my family, and all of my friends in the Parkinson's community, I'd like to thank Max Little for this monumental step in helping to develop the biomarkers necessary to cure Parkinson's.

As Mr. Little describes, great strides have been made in the fight against Parkinson's. However, Parkinson's research is still risky because we lack biomarkers -- objective biological metrics -- to measure the progression (and hopefully someday, regression) of the disease.

Therefore, organizations like The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research are highly focused on developing biomarkers for Parkinson's, particularly through programs like the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), a clinical study being conducted at various locations around the country to evaluate "a cohort of recently diagnosed PD Patients and healthy subjects using advanced imaging, biologic sampling and clinical and behavioral assessments to identify biomarkers of Parkinson's disease progression."

Imagine if Angry Birds ran the accelerometer in the background to measure whether players (who opt in anonymously) displayed Parkinson's tremors. They could collect millions of data points a day - Gene Gurkoff

PPMI is a really big deal. However, even with great tools like Fox Trial Finder, it's very difficult and expensive to get people to participate in clinical trials like PPMI. An estimated 1 million people in the U.S. have Parkinson's; but nearly 30 percent of all clinical trials fail to recruit a single subject, and 85 percent of clinical trials finish late due to recruitment troubles.

Which is why Mr. Little's work has me so fired up. It's not just because he has helped to develop a voice biomarker for Parkinson's. Even better, he has figured out how to use a phone -- something that nearly everyone carries with them at all times -- to create a cheap and easy way for anyone, anywhere to actively participate in the quest for a cure.

As a mobile app developer myself, this has got me thinking of other ways we could use the other features of modern smart phones to efficiently crowdsource Parkinson's research. Here are some ideas -- some of which are already being explored.

1. Using the phone's accelerometer to detect tremors. In 2011, researchers at UCLA published a study in which they used an iPhone 3G's accelerometer to detect Parkinson's tremors. The study was noted as a worthy proof of concept. And today's iPhones have way more sensitive gyroscopes, which could potentially read tremors even more accurately.

So, imagine if Angry Birds ran the accelerometer in the background to measure whether players (who opt in anonymously) displayed Parkinson's tremors. They could collect millions of data points a day -- from both healthy people, and people that self-identify as having Parkinson's -- to perhaps develop a tremor biomarker for the disease.

2. Using the phone's camera to detect hypokinesia. Today's smart phone cameras are so sensitive that they can be used to measure a person's heartbeat. And modern facial recognition software is so sophisticated that it can detect a fake smile better than a human can.

So, imagine if millions of people opted in to have Instagram anonymously submit their photos to a server running this kind of facial recognition software. If people self-identify as to whether or not they have Parkinson's, then the program could perhaps develop an early detection biomarker for hypokinesia-- the frozen or stony face that many people with Parkinson's display.

3. Using the phone's search engine, GPS and mobile payment systems to develop environmental/lifestyle markers. Google has a tool, called Google Flu Trends, that can detect a flu outbreak based on the types of search queries it receives. For instance, if a lot of people in a particular area start searching for "headache" or "cough syrup", then Google knows there may be a flu outbreak there.

Clearly Parkinson's doesn't "outbreak" in a way that would cause a temporal spike in search terms. And clearly, search browsers are not limited to mobile phones.

But, mobile phone searches might offer other interesting data because people can do them on the fly. And there are many questions that people with Parkinson's might have when they're away from their computers (i.e., questions related to mobility) that they might not have while sitting at home.

So, imagine if people could opt-in to have their mobile (and desktop) searches anonymously shared with a database. If people self-identified as to whether or not they have Parkinson's, it's possible that we could develop a "search biomarker" for the disease.

The same could also be said for using a phone's GPS to identify environmental markers for Parkinson's, or the phone's mobile payment features (i.e. mobile wallets) to detect things like diet or lifestyle markers.

The key to all of this is in having lots of people participate. But, as any app developer knows, this is surely possible if it's free and easy. Thanks, Mr. Little for helping to lead the way.

More in Simple Solutions Can Heal the Masses

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Friday, January 25, 2013

Want to Know Your Real Age?

Want to know how old your body really is? Well that makes sense, as most of us take care of our body differently, and have different genetics which further effect our body's condition and as a result: we age differently. Today, there are exams which take in all our emotional, mental and physical health information and provide us with a "real age" number. Full article

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Green Groups Oppose Easing New York Dairy Pollution Rules

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Environmental groups are pushing back against the Cuomo administration's plan to support a growing yogurt industry by easing regulations on large-scale dairy operations.

The Greek yogurt industry is growing so fast in New York that the state doesn't have enough cows to meet the demand for milk. At a "yogurt summit" in Albany last August, Gov. Andrew Cuomo called Greek yogurt one of the best entrepreneurial opportunities in a generation.

Farms with up to 200 cows are exempt from regulations requiring extra steps to prevent pollution from cow waste. Cuomo has proposed raising the limit to 300 cows to help farms expand without incurring high regulatory costs.

At Cuomo's summit in August, Ontario County dairy farmer Kerry Adams said the regulations would cost her farm $2,400 per cow if she expanded past the threshold for what is defined as a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation. Adams said she'd have to spend $200,000 to build a new barn because the current one is too close to a stream to comply with the regulations, and she'd have to invest another $200,000 in better manure processing.

The Department of Environmental Conservation held public hearings on the proposed change in the dairy regulations and accepted formal public comments through Jan. 22.

In their 80-page comment document, the Sierra Club and other groups said the proposal would likely add 25,000 cows to New York's dairy herd, resulting in more than 3 million additional pounds of urine and feces produced each day. "Without doubt, some of this urine and feces will pollute surface and groundwater and air."

The groups, which also include Riverkeeper, Waterkeeper Alliance, Earthjustice, Environmental Advocates and Citizens Campaign for the Environment, contend the proposed deregulation is a violation of the federal Clean Water Act and would undermine DEC's ability to meet runoff limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency to protect Chesapeake Bay.

Members of the New York Farm Bureau and dairy operators testified at public hearings on the proposed regulation change on Jan. 4. Dairy farmer Tom Borden, president of the Washington County Farm Bureau, said the proposal would help small farmers stay in business by making a small expansion possible without prohibitive costs.

Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier than more traditional yogurt and requires more milk in its production. The rapid growth of the Greek yogurt industry in New York has revitalized the dairy business in the state. The nation's No. 1 and No. 2 Greek yogurt brands, Chobani and Fage, are both expanding plants in central New York, and the total number of yogurt plants in the state is now 29, up from 14 in 2000.

Also on HuffPost:

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Five Natural Ways to Avoid Crow's Feet

Five Natural Ways to Avoid Crow's Feet
After a couple of decades of laughing, smiling and generally enjoying life without a second thought about wrinkles, you may notice that suddenly those smile lines around your eyes don't disappear as quickly as they used to. In fact, crow's feet might be starting to set up camp on the outer corners of your eyes.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Heidi Grant Halvorson, Ph.D.: A Simple Success Tip: Say 'I Don't'

To reach many, if not most of the goals we'd like to achieve -- losing weight, getting ahead at work, improving a relationship --it's not just a matter of taking action. There are things we need to stop doing if we want to be successful. We need to stop overeating, stop procrastinating, stop getting worked up over things that really don't matter.

It's hard to motivate yourself to adopt new habits, but it's even harder to rid yourself of old ones. More often than not, it's the latter that keep us from becoming the person we really want to be.

We need help -- we need strategies that actually work. I don't care how much self-control you have -- willpower alone is not going to do the trick.

Thankfully, there are strategies that work. Here is a particularly useful one that was recently discovered by researchers at Boston College and the University of Houston.

Imagine you are on a diet, and you are enjoying a meal at a nice restaurant. After clearing the plates, your server says, "You know, we have an incredible chocolate cake on our dessert menu. We're famous for it. Would you care to try it?"

Would you think to yourself:

"I can't eat chocolate cake."

"I don't eat chocolate cake."

If you think there is no real difference, you couldn't be more wrong. "Don't" and "can't" may seem somewhat interchangeable, but they are very different psychologically. And if there is one thing that social psychologists have learned over the years, it's that even seemingly subtle differences in language can have very powerful effects on our thoughts, feelings and behavior.

"I don't" is experienced as a choice, so it feels empowering. It's an affirmation of your determination and willpower. "I can't" isn't a choice -- it's a restriction, it's being imposed upon you. So thinking "I can't" undermines your sense of power and personal agency.

The difference between thinking "I don't" and "I can't" can be quite dramatic. In one study, students with a healthy eating goal were instructed that when faced with a temptation, they should say to themselves either "I don't do X" or "I can't do X." (e.g.,"I don't eat candy" versus "I can't eat candy"). On their way out of the lab, they were told that they could choose a token of appreciation for their participation in the study: a chocolate bar or a granola bar. Who chose the healthier option? Sixty-four percent of those who said "I don't," compared to only 39 percent of those who said "I can't."

In another study, 20 adult women who were working toward a health and fitness goal were encouraged to use either "I don't" or "I can't" language when they were tempted to lapse (e.g., skip the gym, grab a donut, etc.). On each of the next 10 days, these women checked in via email to report on whether or not the strategy was working for them -- if not, they were told they could stop using the strategy. By the study's end, 8 out of the 10 women using the "I don't" strategy were still using it successfully, while only 1 of the 10 who used "I can't" lasted that long.

The beautiful thing about using this strategy is that it could not be easier -- every time you catch yourself thinking "I can't have this," or "I can't do that," simply say, "No, I don't do this," instead.

Because the truth is, it is your choice. The power to decide what you do and don't do really is yours. When you are always thinking "I can't," it's easy to lose sight of that fact.

It's time to take your power back, and now you know where to start.

For more science-based strategies you can use to reach your goals and get happier and healthier, check out Succeed: How We Can Reach Our Goals and Nine Things Successful People Do Differently.

Check out the free gifts you'll receive for pre-ordering my new book, FOCUS.

Trying to figure out where you go wrong when it comes to reaching your goals? Check out the free Nine Things Diagnostics.

For more by Heidi Grant Halvorson, Ph.D., click here.

For more on success and motivation, click here.

Follow Heidi Grant Halvorson, Ph.D. on Twitter: www.twitter.com/hghalvorson

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Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

5 Things To Try Without Technology

Get Healthy Living Alerts:

By Sam Ferrigno for HooplaHa.com.

For many of us, it can be tough to imagine unplugging for a couple of hours: Technology has become somewhat of a crutch. But, connecting off-screen is something worth prioritizing every now and again. Check out some things to do without technology in the slideshow below.

1. Cooking

I just got an <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/2012/04/cook-the-book-how-to-cook-everything-the-basi.html">amazing cookbook</a> and I intend to use it, despite possible paper cuts and incessant page turning. Cooking requires love as well as undivided attention. Keeping the chicken from burning and the house from going up in flames will keep you busy enough to turn off the phone.
2. Wondering

This one sounds weird because it is. It is completely weird to wonder about anything with a smartphone. We shouldn’t take for granted that we have access to more knowledge than in any other time in history. We should give ourselves time to think about the question before knowing the answer.
3. Talking

Kids think less of texting in the middle of a conversation. As we get older we learn that it’s really rude. Turn your phone off when you’re out to coffee with friends. Don’t take their time and attention for granted. Otherwise they’ll grow up without you.
4. Dating

Terrifying. The other end of an instant message convo is a broad wall from which to ask someone out on a date. It’s an even bigger wall when you carry on a relationship online. Save some stories and compliments so that you and your mate look forward to seeing each other in person.
5. Writing

Good handwriting is one of those things like books and records that are fading from popular culture. But like vinyl and a good book cover, handwriting will always has its charm. Even if it’s bad, there’s something about a handwritten note that makes you want to frame it.
Related Video: Modern Technology

For more on unplugging and recharging, click here.

Earlier on HuffPost:

By Sam Ferrigno for HooplaHa.com. For many of us, it can be tough to imagine unplugging for a couple of hours: Technology has become somewhat of a crutch. But, connecting off-screen is something wo...

Filed by Kate Bratskeir |

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Monday, January 21, 2013

Analyzing the Components of Plastic Surgery Cost

Analyzing the Components of Plastic Surgery Cost
Plastic surgery is not inexpensive, and given the current economy many patients are eager to rejuvenate their bodies, but not as ready to part with their hard-earned money. It's imperative, however, that you don't sacrifice your safety or overlook the importance of a plastic surgeon's experience just to take advantage of a good deal. An explanation of the most common components of plastic surgery costs to enable patients to make the most educated decision possible when selecting a surgeon and cosmetic surgery procedure.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Helene Lerner: How To Boost Your Confidence -- Instantly

Second-guessing and doubting ourselves can be deadly. It kills our enthusiasm for embarking on a big project, getting involved in a new relationship, and the list goes on. I wrote about worry recently -- another habit that zaps our energy as well.

When doubting yourself rears its ugly head, here are ways to put down the monster.

Ask Yourself: Is This Really Justified?

Is what you are telling yourself true? For example, you may be thinking, "If I offer this idea and people align with it, I may not be able to carry it out." Or, "If I keep dating this attractive man/woman, they may get to know the 'real me' and I may do some 'dumb' things that will push them away."

More than likely what's underneath your mountain of doubts is fear. I love this: FEAR is "False Evidence Appearing Real." So whatever you are telling yourself is probably not true.

Draw Up an "I Do" List

Now is the time to counteract your negative mind-talk. It is important to acknowledge the many things we achieve. If we are not there for ourselves, who will be? Many of us were taught not to brag when we were younger, so claiming your achievements may feel uncomfortable. But it's perfectly fine to let people know what you've done and what you are excited about. What's most important is that you take it in as well. This "I do" list is strictly for you, describing what you did, whether you thought you could do it when you started, and how you felt after you accomplished a goal.

Act "As If" You Feel Confident

We all have days when we feel good about ourselves and days when we do not. I like to call the latter "hanging on" days. And what is effective during these times is to act "as if" you can accomplish whatever it is you're about to do. Say you are scheduled to present to a group of your colleagues or go out on a date with a new person, and you don't feel up to it. Share how you feel with a close friend, and then have a talk with yourself in the mirror. Look deep into your eyes and connect with the compassion that is there. Tell yourself, "I know how you feel, but you really can do it." And then take the right action.

Avoid Comparing Yourself to Other People

A sure way to feel bad about yourself is to measure your achievements with other people. If you compare, you will probably despair. If you must, compare yourself with yourself at a different time in your life. What are you willing to do now, that you would have not done early on? And in reflecting about your future, ask yourself, "What would I do, if I knew I couldn't fail?" There is more for you to accomplish. Get excited. No one knows how to do it perfectly, so join the club!

For more by Helene Lerner, click here.

For more on emotional wellness, click here.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Who Should Use Anti Aging Creams

Who Should Use Anti Aging Creams
There is a general misconception that anti aging creams and products are only for those who are in 40s. However, the fact of the matter is that we all need such creams. No matter what is your age, you need anti aging products for several reasons.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Monday, January 14, 2013

How to Choose the Best Anti Aging Skincare Products?

You need to know your skin before you buy anti aging skincare products. Learn how to test your skin type with the help of a tissue paper. Source

More Kids Being Treated With Alternative Medicine, But Is It Safe?

Children with chronic health conditions are regularly treated with alternative therapies, according to a new Canadian study that suggests the use of so-called "complementary and alternative medicine" in pediatrics is on the rise. Many children in the study took multivitamins or minerals, while others tried treatments like massage, aromatherapy and chiropractic manipulation.

"The use of [alternative medicine] is always going to be much higher in those kids who have a specific condition, particularly one not well-treated with conventional medicine, because parents are always asking, 'What can I do to help my kid?'" said Dr. Joyce Frye, an integrative physician and epidemiologist with the University of Maryland's Center for Integrative Medicine, who did not work on the study. Because there is no clear definition of the term, any health care system, practice or product outside of Western medicine is generally grouped under the label of complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM.

In the new study, published online in the journal Pediatrics on Monday, researchers asked more than 900 parents of children at two children's hospitals in Canada whether their children had ever used alternative medicine and, if so, how. The patients were being treated in cardiology, gastroenterology, neurology, oncology or respiratory clinics.

Almost half of the parents reported that their child had used an alternative therapy at the same time that he or she was undergoing conventional medical treatment. Nearly 10 percent of parents said they'd turned to alternative medicine before seeking conventional treatment for their child's condition, and 5 percent used CAM in lieu of conventional medicine.

The most popular alternative products used were vitamins and minerals, followed by herbal products and homeopathic remedies, while the most popular practices were massage, faith healing (which can include the laying on of hands or a visit to a spiritual location) chiropractic manipulation, aromatherapy and relaxation techniques.

In the U.S., the most recent comprehensive information on alternative medicine use among children was published as part of a 2008 report issued by the National Institute of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. It found that nearly 40 percent of adults and 12 percent of children, or 1 in 9 kids in the U.S., have used some form of complementary medicine. Children whose parents used complementary therapies were far more likely to do so, as were teens, white children, those whose parents had more education and those with multiple health conditions. The survey also found that children whose families put off seeking out traditional medical care because of costs were more likely to try alternative medicine.

Frye told The Huffington Post that to-date, most studies have focused on the prevalence of alternative medicine use rather than its potential risks and benefits.

"Some dietary supplements, particularly herbals, may change [how] the body [metabolizes] certain drugs. It's what we call herb-drug interactions," said Dr. Josephine Briggs, director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. More than half of the children in the Pediatrics study were using alternative medicine in conjunction with prescription drugs, and while the majority said they'd consulted with their doctor first, nearly 20 percent had not spoken with a doctor or pharmacist.

"The take-home message from this is that doctors should ask, and patients should tell their health care providers about the use of any dietary supplements," said Briggs.

Other alternative therapies have been studied more rigorously, she said, including acupuncture. A Canadian review of 37 studies published in Pediatrics in 2011 concluded that the practice is generally safe for kids. The study found that the incidence of adverse events during acupuncture was just over 10 percent, and most were mild.

"We very much feel that many of these CAM [practices] have promise in symptom management, particularly mind and body [work]," said Briggs. "Parents who chose to try vitamins and minerals for children with chronic illness should be carefully discussing it with their pediatrician."

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Does Sugar-Free Gum Really Prevent Cavities?

New York Times:

Cleans and protects teeth. Helps prevent cavities. So say the most popular brands of sugar-free gum. But do their claims stand up to scrutiny?

Read the whole story at New York Times

Filed by Amanda L. Chan |

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Monday, January 7, 2013

Julie Chen, M.D.: Can Multivitamins Help Us With Cancer Risks?

When I talk to people about supplements, most people have either been on a multivitamin in the past or are currently on one. Even people who are not really into vitamins and supplements do not balk at the concept of multivitamins for either themselves or their family members.

Being that this is one of the most commonly used supplements, researchers have pored over the idea as to whether multivitamins are, in fact, good for our health. When you do a search on the Internet, there are abundant studies that suggest both for and against vitamins -- so what are we to make of all the results?

Should we or should we not take multivitamins?

When patients first come into my clinic of integrative medicine in San Jose, Calif., I usually will go through their medical history, family history, and also their diet patterns. Based on the information, I can then help the patient decide on whether or not to take a multivitamin.

The major determining factors for me in regards to advising whether my patient takes a multivitamin or not are their health history of prior diseases or potentially impending diseases, their family history of cancers or other serious diseases that seem to recur over and over in their family members, and also whether the patient eats a lot of foods that come straight from mother nature (such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, whole grains, etc.).

If a patient is generally healthy and has a family history that is not concerning and eats a wide array of mother nature's foods, then I generally would not recommend a multivitamin for that patient. This is because if you are healthy and are able to get your nutrients from your foods, that should be the method in which you should be getting your vitamins and minerals. For those who are concerned that they are getting a lot of nutrients but might be missing a few here and there, I will generally advise the patient to get a natural multivitamin and take it once or twice per week as a gap-filler for some rare missing nutrients in his or her diet.

For those people who are older and do not eat a healthy, balanced diet, I would generally recommend taking a natural, food-based multivitamin that is not excessive in the percentage of daily allowances of the vitamins and minerals. These patients should take the multivitamin at the suggested dosing about once a day or every other day. However, with these patients, I generally still try to encourage them to just eat a more balanced diet so that they can take less of the multivitamin.

Despite the above-mentioned general rules for multivitamin usage, I still recommend that all you readers simply ask your physician about this topic, because whether you should be taking a multivitamin or not is truly dependent on your own specific medical history and your diet.

The reason I bring this up is that there are still questions as to whether the more synthetic types of multivitamins might do more harm than good. Therefore, it's a good idea for you to bring your multivitamin to your doctor and see if the one you are taking could potentially be harmful to you based on your medical history. This way, your doctor can see if you are taking a multivitamin that is too synthetic and thus potentially harmful, and can help break down the nutrients on the label for you to see if certain dosages in that multivitamin are too high or too low for your specific medical history.

One special category of people I would like to discuss further with regards to multivitamins is those with cancer or a family history that places them at high risk for cancers. When it comes to multivitamins and cancers, the debate has been back and forth -- even the study results have been back and forth. The unfortunate thing is that some of these studies use more synthetic vitamins, thus, it makes it hard to see whether the more natural forms seem to be worthwhile or not in a lower-dosage format and used as a gap-filler -- which is how multivitamins should be used, in my opinion.

Let's use a recent study as an example of what I mean by saying that we need further studies in natural vitamins that are low in dosage to be used as gap-fillers. In October/November of 2012, a study was published in the Journal of American Medical Association that looked at multivitamins and cancer again, but this time in lower dosages of vitamins and minerals.[1] Results published from the Physician's Health Study II, looking at 14,641 male physicians over a decade, saw an 8 percent reduction in total cancer risk when these physicians took a low-dosage vitamin and mineral multivitamin. There were no significant reductions in any given specific cancer type, but rather there was an overall 8 percent reduction in cancers in general.

This study is interesting to me because it shows that perhaps we need more studies looking at multivitamins as gap-fillers at lower dosages because many of the negative studies in the past used higher-dosage synthetic vitamins, which clinically we know are not a good idea, anyway.

What I would love to see are more studies looking at the types of vitamins we actually utilize clinically, which are the lower-dosage, natural multivitamin forms. This way, we can get more information on the true health impacts, from these natural, low-dosage multivitamins used as gap-fillers, in those whose goals are to eat a well-balanced diet. After all, this ultimately is how we should be using these vitamins in real life, anyway.

References:

[1] Gaziano JM, et al. "Multivitamins in the Prevention of Cancer in Men: The Physicians' Health Study II Randomized Controlled Trial." JAMA. 2012;308(18):1871-1880.

For more by Julie Chen, M.D., click here.

For more on personal health, click here.

Follow Julie Chen, M.D. on Twitter: www.twitter.com/makinghealthyez

FOLLOW HEALTH AND FITNESS

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

WATCH: Behold The Ultimate Training Montage

1. Start Now

TIP FOR 2013: "Start now! Not tomorrow, not next week, not next Monday. Why wait to feel proud of what you’re doing for yourself? Take control and make a difference now." THE EXPERT: Jennifer Raven, director of fitness and group exercise at the <a href="http://www.torontoathleticclub.com/">Toronto Athletic Club. </a>

2. Seek Help With Pride

TIP FOR 2013:"No champion ever became a champion without help and guidance. This can come in the form of a coach, a trainer, an instructor, a friend, a book, a website or even a blog." THE EXPERT: Kyla Gagnon, personal fitness trainer of <a href="http://insideoutfitnessvictoria.com/">Inside Out Fitness,</a> based in Victoria, B.C.

3. Find Your Reasons

TIP FOR 2013: "Make a list of three reasons why it is important for you to maintain great health and post your list where you can see it every day. This is your motivation to stay on track with your goals." THE EXPERT: Andrea Doepker-Gavidia, trainer and owner of <a href="http://www.trainforlife.ca/">Train For Life Fitness & Lifestyle Consulting,</a> based in Saskatoon, Sask.

4. Get Back To The Basics

TIP FOR 2013: "Everything our bodies do can be broken down into essential movements: squat, lunge, push, pull, and rotate. Functional movements work with these natural motions to improve joint stability, mobility and improve your quality of life." THE EXPERT: Craig McNamee and Adam Reynolds, personal fitness trainers at <a href="http://catalyst-health.ca/">Catalyst Health,</a> in Toronto, Ont.

5. Take Risks

TIP FOR 2013: "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. Don’t approach 2013 in this manner. Taking a risk is all about opening yourself up to a change and accepting the need for change. Avoiding risk is one of the most powerful reasons we don’t reach our potential." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://evaredpath.com/eva/">Eva Redpath, fitness trainer and dance choreographer</a> of Toronto.

6. Eat Carbs At The Right Time

TIP FOR 2013: "Consume most of your carbohydrates for the day after you exercise. Carbohydrates are energy and excess energy gets stored when it's not being used. Where does that excess energy get stored? In your fat cells." THE EXPERT: Jean-Luc Boissonneault, personal trainer and CEO of <a href="http://www.freeformfitness.ca/">Free Form Fitness,</a> based in Ottawa, Ont.

7. Think Green

TIP FOR 2013: "Add in cruciferous vegetables — think broccoli, kale, cabbage and Brussels spouts. Cruciferous veggies are rich in <a href="http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/ super-veggies-cruciferous-vegetables">vitamins, minerals, fibre, and phytochemicals</a> and have been linked to lower cancer risks." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://enlightenedlife.ca/">Danielle Felip, holistic nutritionist,</a> based in Toronto.

8. Don't Forget To Have Fun

TIP FOR 2013: "Once a week, plan a fun workout, something that you actually look forward to. Take a dance class, join a sports team, or go on an active date with your partner. You are way more likely to exercise if it is something you enjoy." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://www.kathleentrotter.com/about-me/">Kathleen Trotter, personal trainer,</a> based in Toronto.

9. Clear The Crap

TIP FOR 2013: "It's essential when you are moving towards a healthier lifestyle to remove all things that steer you away from that goal. The first step towards healthier eating is to clear your cupboards of all your junk foods. Remove chips, microwave popcorn, cookies, snack packs, chocolates and refined sugars. This doesn't mean you can never eat these foods again. Limit your treats to one day or one meal a week where you go out of your way to get these foods." THE EXPERT: Sammy Kennedy, CEO and fitness trainer of <a href="http://www.bootycampfitness.com/about/">Booty Camp Fitness</a>.

10. Get Enough Protein

TIP FOR 2013: "Make sure you get enough protein per day. Protein is the building block for your body to build stronger muscles. More muscle makes you feel stronger, healthier and burns more calories per unit of time. An active individual should have a minimum daily intake of one kg of his or her own body weight." THE EXPERT: Jason Gee, personal trainer at <a href="http://www.getfitt.com/about/jason.php">Personal Fitness Consulting,</a> based in Toronto, Ont.

11. Get Enough Snooze Time

TIP FOR 2013: "Never mind the old axiom, 'I'll sleep when I'm dead'. Poor sleep is implicated in poor cognition, poor adaptation to exercise, fatigue, irritability and weight gain due to messing with the hormones that regulate our appetites. Get your quality Z's and you'll reduce stress, increase alertness, and make your exercise more productive and more tolerable." THE EXPERT: Cris LaBossiere, certified cycling coach and personal trainer of <a href="http://rhinofitness.ca/">Rhino Fitness,</a> based in Winnipeg, M.B.

12. Find A Buddy

TIP FOR 2013: "Accountability measures are important — it’s human nature to stay where you’re comfortable and this can lead to complacency. When you share your plan with others, your success rate naturally rises. Often, when left to our own devices we can succumb to procrastination and become unmotivated. Finding a workout partner who has similar goals and interests can take your fitness plan from flat lining to fun." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://www.iambishop.com/">Brent Bishop</a>, fitness expert based in Toronto, Ont.

13. Eat Naked

TIP FOR 2013: "Do you ever come home after work and take off your work clothes and put on the comfy sweats? And soon after that you sit down to eat, guilt-free because your belt line isn't reprimanding you for overindulging? Restrictive clothing helps you gauge your stomach expanding from over-eating. Better yet, eat naked! That’s right. Take off your clothes and then eat. If you think you need to lose weight or tone up, then eating naked pretty well guarantees you will not eat as much. Sound ridiculous? Try it." THE EXPERT: Amir Nevo, exercise physiologist of <a href="http://www.healthwavecanada.com/page1.html">Health Wave,</a> based in Halifax, N.S.

14. Drink More Water

TIP FOR 2013: "Most people are chronically dehydrated and hunger can actually be one of the first signs. Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces every day. This will keep your body well hydrated, keep your metabolism humming and keep your skin glowing." THE EXPERT: Angela Peters, personal trainer and holistic nutrition coach of <a href="http://www.hol-fit.com/p/services.html">Hol-Fit.com,</a>, based in London, Ont.

15. Take A Walk

TIP FOR 2013: "Adding 15 to 20 minutes of walking can be as easy as walking to work or taking a lunch time walk. Eventually, you should work your way up for longer 30 to 60 minute walks. Brisk walking can burn 250 to 300 calories per hour." THE EXPERT: Patsy McLean, group exercise director and certified personal trainer at the <a href="http://www.adelaideclub.com/">Adelaide Club,</a> in Toronto, Ont.

16. Create Bite-Sized Goals

TIP FOR 2013: "A common error in New Year's resolutions is to set lofty goals that we fall short of, ending in a negative experiences. Set bite-sized, near-term goals in the ﬁelds of exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle that can be built upon once successfully sustained for a two-week term or longer." THE EXPERT: Vanessa Ast Biller, personal trainer at <a href="http://www.vastfit.com/">Vastfit,</a> in Toronto, Ont.

17. Get Active After Dinner

TIP FOR 2013: "Leave the stresses of the day behind and find time every evening to do something active. Walk the dog, head to the park with the family, ride your bike, play with your kids, or crank up the tunes and vacuum the house! You’ll have more energy, will sleep better and will feel a lot better about hitting the sofa to take in a favourite show." THE EXPERT: Kelly Murumets, CEO of <a href="http://www.participaction.com/splash/">ParticipACTION.</a>

18. Take 10 Minutes

TIP FOR 2013: "Do something physical and move for just 10 minutes a day. You will start to feel better and then want to move more." THE EXPERT: Elisabeth Halfpapp, co-creator of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Exhale-Core-Fusion-Day-Sculpt/dp/B006W7L3TC">Exhale Core Fusion</a>.

19. Think Realistically

TIP FOR 2013: "Don’t start anything you can’t commit to forever. People often start with a lot of motivation and pick hardcore or intensive exercise programs that require them to alter their schedule or lifestyle in order to commit to them. Over time, life will get in the way and you probably won’t be able to stick to that one-to-two hour daily plan. Make sure the fitness plan and schedule you choose fits into your life right now." THE EXPERT: Nicole Nichols, award-winning trainer from <a href="http://sparkpeople.com/">SparkPeople.com</a>.

20. Eat Breakfast

TIP FOR 2013: "We've all heard this one before but it’s a good standard to abide by. Not only will it kick start your metabolism from your night of rest, it will help prevent you from making poor food choices because you’re so hungry in another hour or so. Choose protein riches foods like eggs or Greek yogurt with nuts or high fibre cereal to help start your day." THE EXPERT: Mary Ann Lee, assistant director of personal training at the <a href="http://www.adelaideclub.com/">Adelaide Club,</a> in Toronto.

21. Sign Up Ahead

TIP FOR 2013: "Sign up for your fitness classes online beforehand. This way, you've made the commitment in advance, and are less likely to get emotionally attached to your couch and bowl of popcorn. Plus, many studios these days will charge your card for the class when you sign up, so if you're a 'no show', you pay anyways. That financial incentive can be very powerful." THE EXPERT: Elise Joan, yoga instructor and trainer in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Lisa-Yoga-Blast-Masterson/dp/B009904NLY">Dr. Lisa: Yoga Blast.</a>

22. Dance Like You Mean It

TIP FOR 2013: "Dancing doesn't require any special equipment, just a great playlist of tunes that get you moving and grooving. A dance workout can be part of your social agenda — plan a once a week dance night with friends and you won’t even realize you’re working out, you’re just creating fun memories while you burn calories." THE EXPERT: Shannon Crane, pole dance instructor and owner of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brass-Vixens/230944996966591">Brass Vixens,</a> in Toronto, Ont.

23. Take A Break

TIP FOR 2013: "Rest. This is where we actually make gains and get stronger from our workouts. Everyone is different but when your head is telling you that you need a break, take it. Don't do back to back hard efforts. If you really go hard one day, pull back a little the next or take a complete rest." THE EXPERT: Mike Porter, owner of <a href="http://cadencevancouver.com/about/about-mike/">Cadence Cycling Studio,</a>in Vancouver, B.C.

24. The Twist

TIP FOR 2013: "Twisting seated, standing and even lying down is highly beneficial for our bodies. Try this movement out by standing with feet together, deeply bent knees and bring palms together. Twist your entire torso to the right so the left elbow and right thigh can press against the body, deeply breathe and twist further and repeat on left side." THE EXPERT: Amber J, owner of <a href="http://misfitstudio.com/home/">MISFITSTUDIO,</a>in Toronto, Ont.

25. Eat Close To The Farm

TIP FOR 2013: "Think about foods that are grown locally. Fresh vegetables, fruit, if you eat meat — grass-grain fed animals, organic free range nuts, seeds and healthy whole grains are all good options." THE EXPERT: Marci Figuer, trainer and owner of <a href="http://www.detoxclub.ca/">Detox Club,</a> in Toronto, Ont.

26. Eat Differently In Restaurants

TIP FOR 2013: "When ordering, ask for half of your meal boxed to go. Eating smaller portions results in weight loss. Due to how large our portions are these days, caloric intake can lead to fat gain. So ask your server to box up half of your meal before even bringing it to the table and have that a little later for a second meal." THE EXPERT: Paul Katami of <a href="http://acacialifestyle.com/Default.asp?">Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Beginners.</a>

27. Reconnect With Nature

TIP FOR 2013: "Make sure to reconnect with your environment. Stop and smell the roses…take in the beauty of the blessings that are around you and what our universe has provided." THE EXPERT: Evette Shuk, instructor of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Canyon-Ranch-Yoga-Strength-Energy/dp/B005GYXO76">Canyon Ranch: Yoga for Strength & Energy.</a>

28. Eat Kale

TIP FOR 2013: "I consider this vegetable to be a superfood — it is very nutrient dense, it's a cancer fighter, very rich in phytochemicals and calcium which is more absorbed by the body than calcium found in milk. It is also very rich in iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, vitamin c, vitamin B’s, vitamin E, vitamin K and countless other vitamins and minerals!" THE EXPERT: Denise Henry, owner and nutritionist of <a href="http://www.gailsweightloss.ca/about-us.php">Gail's Weight Loss And Nutrition Centre,</a> based in Saskatoon, Sask.

29. Take It Slowly

TIP FOR 2013: "The biggest New Year's mistake is getting out of the gates too fast. Start your routine within your comfort zone. If you have been sedate in the past year, try light training twice a week to start and pick it up when you are ready. If you are really sore the first week of training you are less likely to keep it up. It's a marathon, not a sprint." THE EXPERTS: Christopher Robbins and Ellie Martens, personal trainers and owners of <a href="http://www.liftfitness.ca/#contact">Lift Fitness,</a> in Winnipeg, Man.

30. Boot One Bad Habit

TIP FOR 2013: "Drink too much pop? Love the late afternoon sugar fix? Not a problem. Don't remove pop from your diet, start drinking water when you would usually have pop. Have a afternoon snack of Greek yogurt and almonds instead of a chocolate bar. It's a paradigm shift. You are not going to remove things from your diet, you are simply going to stop having them around. If someone offers it to you, decide if you want it. If you really do want it, have it." THE EXPERT: Jordan Cieciwa, personal strength coach and trainer of <a href="http://onefitcity.com/">One Fit City,</a> based in Winnipeg, M.B.

31. Chew Your Food

TIP FOR 2013: "Slow down when you eat, focus on chewing each bite for 15 to 20 seconds. This will create better digestion, reduce bloating and portion size!" THE EXPERT: Angela Peters, personal trainer and holistic nutrition coach of <a href="http://www.hol-fit.com/p/services.html">Hol-Fit.com,</a>, based in London, Ont.

32. Be Aware Of Your Mood

TIP FOR 2013: "While most of us are aware that exercising can work as a great anti-depressant, it can also work in the opposite direction and cause anxiety over workout schedules and lead you to feel depressed. Make sure your exercises aren't altering your stress levels or mood." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://homeopathicpluscentre.com/">Hermeet Suri</a>, holistic nutritionist from Mississauga, Ont.

33. Get A Pedometer

TIP FOR 2013: Buy yourself a pedometer and aim to get at least 10,000 steps a day — preferably more. By taking the stairs, walking to and from work, running errands on foot, taking a walking break at lunch and taking a brisk walk after dinner, you’ll be well on your way." THE EXPERT: Kelly Murumets, CEO of <a href="http://www.participaction.com/splash/">ParticipACTION.</a>

34. Stretch — All The Time

TIP FOR 2013: "Incorporate stretching into day-to-day activities. Don’t roll out of bed — arch your back or kick start circulation with lifting your legs to push off your blankets. Use the side of the bed as a brace and bend over to stretch your back and neck. Stretching helps to lengthen muscles and give a lean, tone look to your body. Don’t waste any opportunity to engage your muscles." THE EXPERT: Shannon Crane, pole dance instructor and owner of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brass-Vixens/230944996966591">Brass Vixens,</a> in Toronto Ont.

35. Try A Burpee ... With A Push-Up

TIP FOR 2013: "It’s grueling and repetitive, but can be done anywhere at any time and is a full body workout for strength, conditioning and cardiovascular improvement." To perform a burpee, jump up, go into a squat position and fall front into a push-up. THE EXPERT: Dai Manuel, COO and fitness expert of <a href="http://www.daimanuel.com/">Fitness Town,</a>, based in Vancouver, B.C.

36. Make 'You' Time

TIP FOR 2013: "Take some time for you. Learn to carve 10 minutes out of the day to treat yourself to 'you' time. Learn a few meditations that help you visualize your success. No phone, no email, just you and 10 minutes." THE EXPERT: Paul Katami of <a href="http://acacialifestyle.com/Default.asp?">Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Beginners.</a>

37. Eat Seasonally

TIP FOR 2013: "Eat a variety of foods that are in season and add more vegetables to your diet and fill your plate with colourful foods." THE EXPERT: Evette Shuk, instructor of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Canyon-Ranch-Yoga-Strength-Energy/dp/B005GYXO76">Canyon Ranch: Yoga for Strength & Energy.</a>

38. Think About Your Health

TIP FOR 2013: "Exercise is a great way to manage and prevent many health conditions such as type two diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Ask your fitness and health professionals what is the best exercise prescription for your particular health concerns." THE EXPERT: Andrea Doepker-Gavidia, trainer and owner of <a href="http://www.trainforlife.ca/">Train For Life Fitness & Lifestyle Consulting,</a> in Saskatoon, Sask.

39. Do The Math: BMI

TIP FOR 2013: "A recent study showed that 1 in 4 Canadians are obese. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a mathematical ratio that compares a person’s height and weight to diagnose possible obesity. It is best to maintain a BMI within the normal range of 18.5 to 24.9." To <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/english_bmi_calculator/bmi_calculator.html">find out your BMI, use this calculator</a>. THE EXPERT: Experts at <a href="http://my.clevelandclinic.org/canada/default.aspx">The Cleveland Clinic Canada,</a> based in Toronto.

40. Don't Limit Yourself. Ever.

TIP FOR 2013: "Your actual potential is unknown. With proper training and a positive attitude, you can more than likely achieve much more than you expect." THE EXPERT: Mike Porter, owner of <a href="http://cadencevancouver.com/about/about-mike/">Cadence Cycling Studio,</a>in Vancouver, B.C.

41. Makeover Your Fridge

TIP FOR 2013: "Give your fridge and pantry a makeover. Discard old jams, sauces, crackers, and foods that are expired in exchange for fresh, brightly coloured seasonal fruit and veggies, and nutrient-dense options for snacking." THE EXPERT: Vanessa Ast Biller, personal trainer at <a href="http://www.vastfit.com/">Vastfit,</a> in Toronto, Ont.

42. Turn Goals Into Events

TIP FOR 2013: "Making a point of challenging yourself mentally and physically is crucial for growth. Setting and completing a tangible event that you have put hard work and training into provides both the emotional and physical satisfaction that you can truly call your own. Plan towards a future race, an expedition hike or something that genuinely inspires you." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://www.iambishop.com/">Brent Bishop</a>, fitness expert based in Toronto, Ont.

43. Disconnect

TIP FOR 2013: "Go off the grid and turn your cell phone off. Take time to disconnect with technology." THE EXPERT: Evette Shuk, instructor of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Canyon-Ranch-Yoga-Strength-Energy/dp/B005GYXO76">Canyon Ranch: Yoga for Strength & Energy.</a>

44. Document Everything

TIP FOR 2013: "Take photos, measurements and track your workouts. How will you know how much you’re changing if you don’t know where you started? Take new photos and measurements once a month to help keep you on track." THE EXPERT: Nathan Bogya, personal trainer of <a href="http://www.bridgecityfitness.com/">Bridge City Fitness,</a> based in Saskatoon, Sask.

45. Don't Think 'Perfect'

TIP FOR 2013: "Due to the nature of life, your diet plan may stray from what you had initially intended. All you can do is your best. This is where you also need to take a quick glance in the mirror and hopefully realize that this is still better than before an action plan was developed. If not, maybe it's time to re-evaluate the game plan." THE EXPERT: Chris Wilmot, owner and personal trainer of <a href="http://www.functionalfitness.ca/">Functional Fitness,</a> in Halifax, N.S.

46. Invest In Shoes

TIP FOR 2013: "Get proper gear to work out in, especially investing in good footwear or running shoes." THE EXPERT: Val Kirk, personal trainer of <a href="http://www.essentiallyfitness.com/">Essentially Fitness,</a> based in Warman, Sask.

47. Save 15 Minutes After Your Workout

TIP FOR 2013: "Finish your workouts with at least 15 minutes of sub-aerobic activity — cycling, for example is great — so you're not sore for the next session." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ashley-Shumate/311311205641691">Ashley Shumate</a>, long track speed skater and currently managing <a href="http://www.districtfitnessstudio.com/home">District Fitness Studio,</a> in Regina, Sask.

48. Practice Mindful Eating

TIP FOR 2013: "Pay attention to your body's cues. Eat when you're hungry, stop when you're full. Be 'present' while eating, savour your food choices and try not to eat while you're distracted while driving or watching TV, for example." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://www.noelletourney.com/">Noelle Tourney</a>, registered dietitian based in Saskatoon, Sask.

49. Pace Yourself

TIP FOR 2013: "If you feel tired all the time, it means that you are definitely over-training. A workout is supposed to make you feel rejuvenated, and if that is not achieved, it means that you need to turn it down by a few notches." THE EXPERT: <a href="http://homeopathicpluscentre.com/">Hermeet Suri</a>, holistic nutritionist from Mississauga, Ont.

50. Brush Your Teeth After You Eat

TIP FOR 2013: "Once you’re done your meal, brush your teeth. Sitting around tasting the delicious meal you ate will only make you want more, or will make you wait to jump to the dessert menu." THE EXPERT: Amir Nevo, exercise physiologist of <a href="http://www.healthwavecanada.com/page1.html">Health Wave,</a> based in Halifax, N.S.

51. Start A Nutrition Journal

TIP FOR 2013: "It's not just about calories, but where you are getting your calories from. It can be a big eye opener when you actually see what you are eating and how much of it." THE EXPERT: Terese Pratt, personal trainer at <a href="http://www.choicefitness.ca/contact.html">Choice Fitness,</a> based in Calgary, Alta.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.ca

Sunday, January 6, 2013

Leslie Spry, M.D., FACP: New Year, Week Two: 5 Health Resolutions That Are Easy To Keep

New Year's Eve brings to mind NYC's Times Square, noisemakers and bubbly, but what a difference a day can make. The month of January signifies a fresh start, complete with a new perspective and for many, New Year's resolutions. All right, for some it may have looked a little more like a hangover-filled day spent on the couch. But were you one of the many people who made a New Year's resolution this year?

Resolutions can get a bad rap. They often aren't specific enough, making them unrealistic and unattainable. But the notion of aspiring to be better is to be commended. Self-improvement shouldn't be dismissed as "all or nothing." You're more likely to stick with your goals if you set gradual benchmarks. When it comes to establishing a healthy lifestyle, small changes can make a big difference. For example, if you want to lose weight, create a weekly weight loss goal, in addition to your final target number. Don't give up even if there are weeks in which you don't lose any weight. Establish ways to hold yourself accountable: Track and measure your progress with apps or create a journal outlining your goals and the steps you're taking to achieve them.

These five resolutions are so easy to resolve to keep, they risk giving New Year's resolutions a new reputation. An added plus: They also happen to be kidney-friendly.

Avoid unnecessary painkillers. Pain medications provide pain relief (maybe you even relied on them to nurse your post-NYE hangover), but it's important to balance the potential benefits with the risk of dangerous side effects, such as kidney damage, fluid retention, increased blood pressure, and digestive issues. Think twice before you reach into your medicine cabinet and check both prescription and over the counter (OTC) drug labels to evaluate the risks and benefits before taking a particular medication.
Quit smoking (or never start). Many bars and restaurants across the country are smoke-free. It's getting cold out, making it the perfect time to save yourself the trip outside while bettering your health. In addition to causing lung diseases and cancer, smoking acts as an accelerator for any disease that you may have. Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys and can also interfere with medications used to treat high blood pressure, reducing their effectiveness. Quitting can be difficult, but it is one of the most important lifestyle changes that you can make. For additional resources and tips on how to quit, visit the National Kidney Foundation.
Sit less and stand more. In case you missed it, recent research has linked sitting for eight hours or more a day with developing kidney disease, as well as a host of other chronic conditions. This rings true even in otherwise physically-active people. Sitting for that length of time is typical for the average desk job, but most of us go way beyond that. We sit on the couch, while driving, while riding the bus, and during dinner, just to name a few! While sitting is mandatory for some activities, get creative and expand your comfort zone when it's not. The human body was designed to be upright, but in modern society sometimes we need to help it out. Consider a standing desk and standing while talking on the phone.
Catch more Zzzs. Hit the sack earlier to make sure you're getting enough sleep each night. Studies suggest that irregular sleep patterns, eating before going to sleep and not getting enough sleep are all linked to obesity, while getting enough sleep is linked with maintaining a healthy weight. Sleep health is 50 percent habit and 50 percent fatigue. Obesity can cause kidney disease, because the kidneys have to work harder to filter out toxins and to meet the metabolic demands of the increased body mass index (BMI) in obese individuals. When it comes to a good night's rest, most people require about seven hours. Cuddle up and snooze your way to a healthy weight. (Okay, I would be remiss if I didn't also encourage you to incorporate healthy eating and exercise routines alongside better sleeping habits.)
Get organized. It's helpful to make a checklist. Organize one "room" or aspect of your life at a time. When it comes to your health, tackle your medical records and lab documents. There are many apps that can help you keep track of all recent doctor's visits, test results and immunizations. A trusty file cabinet will also do the trick. Don't forget to clean out your medicine cabinet -- expired medications and ointments have a way of lingering around. Make a list of all the medications you're taking, including vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Share it with primary care practitioners and specialists alike. Some medications are kidney-toxic. It's important for your health care providers to determine if any medications and supplements could interact with one another in negative ways. Doses of drugs can change as you age or your kidney function declines.

For more by Leslie Spry, M.D., FACP, click here.

For more on personal health, click here.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Friday, January 4, 2013

Getting Stronger Not Older

For years I have been extolling the many benefits of weight training. From pumping iron to push ups I always believed that weight or strength training played a major role in slowing the aging process. However the results of a recent study really blew my mind and even if it was the only benefit that strength training providing, it would be enough to convince me to start an exercise program NOW! Source

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Creams With Hyaluronic Acid Promote Natural Collagen

Creams With Hyaluronic Acid Promote Natural Collagen
Natural skincare products containing hyaluronic acid are becoming the primary choice over cosmetic procedures with collagen. Why, it's powerful ability to provide moisture to the skin to reduce wrinkles.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

'Parenthood': Kristina's Dramatic Decision

"The Biggest Loser"

Returns Sunday, January 6 at 9 p.m. EST and moves to regular timeslot on Monday, January 7 at 8 p.m. EST on NBC What's Ahead: Jillian Michaels! She's back to help whip contestants into shape. Plus, for the first time, kids (ages 13-16) will be on the show along with 15 adult contestants.

"The Bachelor"

Returns Monday, January 7 at 8 p.m. EST on ABC Starring: Sean Lowe What's Ahead: Jilted "Bachelorette" contestant Sean returns to TV as "The Bachelor" and seeks to find love.

"Deception"

Monday, January 7 at 10 p.m. EST on NBC Starring: Meagan Good, Laz Alonso, Tate Donovan and Victor Garber What's It About: A wealthy socialite and party girl is found dead of an overdose, but something's fishy about her death. Enter FBI Agent Will Moreno (Alonso), who recruits his former partner Joanna Padget (Good), the deceased's former best friend. Joanna hides her true occupation and infiltrates the family she grew up around to find the truth about her friend's death.

"Betty White's Off Their Rockers"

Returns Tuesday, January 8 at 8 p.m. EST on NBC What's Ahead: Betty White will entertain a ton of guest stars while introducing the elderly pranksters. Kim Kardashian, the ladies of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," Ed Asner and NeNe Leakes are among the names who will appear on the prank show.

"Pretty Little Liars"

Returns Tuesday, January 8 at 8 p.m. EST on ABC Family. Where We Left Off: Toby is on the A Team, Garrett's dead, Aria's dad has some strange connection to Ali, Paige saved the day and Ezra's a dad ... and Alex Mack is his baby mama. What's Ahead: Mona is released from Radley and is back at Rosewood High. Clearly, she'll be working with Toby, who the liars are still in the dark about. It's only a matter of time before Spencer learns the truth ... and starts to lose it. Dr. Sullivan will return, hopefully to prevent any breakdowns. Plus, we'll see more about what the hell Byron was doing with Ali the night she died.

"Cougar Town"

Returns Tuesday, January 8 at 10 p.m. EST on TBS. Where We Left Off: Jules and Grayson had a quickie beachfront wedding and rode off into the distance on horseback. What's Ahead: For starters, it's on TBS! Everybody's favorite wine-guzzlin' crew will be joined by guest stars Alexndra Wentworth, Shirley Jones, Gillian Vigman, Tippi Herden and more.

"Justified"

Returns Tuesday, January 8 at 10 p.m. EST on FX. Where We Left Off: In Season 3, Raylan Givens (Timothy Olyphant) prevented carpetbagger/gangster Robert Quarles from establishing a criminal network in Harlan, but a pregnant Winona left the US Marshal and he found out his father shot a good man. What's Ahead: Boyd Crowder (Walton Goggins) will no doubt continue to be a thorn in Raylan's side.

"Stars In Danger: The High Dive"

Wednesday January, 9 at 8 p.m. EST on Fox Starring: JWoww, Bethany Hamilton, Alexandra Paul, Kim Richards, Kyle Richards, David Chokachi, Terrell Owens, Antonio Sabato Jr. What's It About: C-list celebrities learn to dive like the pros with the help of Olympian Troy Dumais.

"1600 Penn"

Thursday, January 10 at 9:30 p.m. EST on NBC Starring: Josh Gad, Bill Pullman, Jenna Elfman What's It About: The Gilchrists are your typical American family ... they just so happen to be the first family of the United States. Gad stars as the hapless son of President Dale Gilchrist (Pullman) and stepson of Emily (Elfman).

"Girls"

Returns Sunday, January 13 at 9 p.m. EST on HBO. Where We Left Off: Jessa bizarrely got married, Shoshanna slept with Ray, Hannah and Adam broke up and Marnie still misses Charlie. What's Ahead: After months of criticism, Hannah makes a black friend (or more than a friend) -- and it's Donald Glover. Patrick Wilson will also play a love interest for Hannah later in the season and Shiri Appleby joins Season 2 as Adam's new girlfriend, much to Hannah's dismay. Elijah moves in with Hannah -- and starts to question his sexuality. Shoshanna is dealing with her post-sex relationship with Ray. Plus, Rita Wilson will stop by to play Marnie's mom and to help her shape up.

"Shameless"

Returns Sunday, January 13 at 9 p.m. EST on Showtime. Where We Left Off: Karen had her and Lip's baby and fled, prompting Lip to move back home and go back to school. Estefania and Marco were on the verge of breaking up and in happier news, Fiona passed her GED. ("Teen Mom's" Amber: Take note.) What's Ahead: It's 137 days since we’ve last seen the Gallagher's. Jimmy has moved into the house with them and Fiona uses the family's money in desperation and the others aren't too pleased. Oh and (shocker) Frank's missing.

"Enlightened"

Returns Sunday, January 13 at 9:30 p.m. EST Where We Left Off: Following her very public breakdown, Amy (Laura Dern) returned to work with a positive outlook ... only to start down the path of revenge after being laughed at by her coworkers. What's Ahead: Will Amy return to the path of enlightenment?

"House of Lies"

Returns Sunday, January 13 at 10 p.m. EST on Showtime. Where We Left Off: Did they or didn't they? Marty (Don Cheadle) and Jeannie (Kristen Bell) ended the season with a romp in the sheets ... maybe. They've gotten rid of the Rainmaker and stand triumphant. What's Ahead: Galweather Stearn brings in a new CEO who's all about female power. Adam Brody returns to TV with a guest role.

"Californication"

Returns Sunday, January 13 at 10:30 p.m. EST on Showtime. Where We Left Off: After Bates left Karen, Hank sees an opportunity. But when his ex Carrie returns and offers him an anti-depressant-laced drink, Hank loses consciousness just after seeing a vision of Karen, to whom he says, "I love you." What's Ahead: Hank is penning a rock opera "about love conquering all" with Atticus Fetch (Tim Minchin), a coked up rock star. Maggie Grace has a nine-episode arc as infamous rock groupie Faith, who becomes involved with Hank, and in one episode, Grace's former "Lost" co-star Jorge Garcia will appear as an old contact from Faith's past. Season 6 will also see a guest appearance from Marilyn Manson.

"The Carrie Diaries"

Monday, January 14 at 8 p.m. EST on The CW Starring: AnnaSophia Robb, Freema Agyeman, Chloe Bridges, Austin Butler and more. What's It About: A prequel to "Sex and the City," the new CW series follows Carrie Bradshaw as a high schooler in the '80s. She's discovering her style, dating, dealing with the death of her mother and falling in love for the first time ... with Manhattan.

"Lost Girl"

Returns Monday, January 14 at 10 p.m. EST on Syfy Where We Left Off: Victory! But the darkness continues to grow in Bo (Anna Silk). What's Ahead: Bo must make a deadly decision. Plus, tune in for guest star Linda Hamilton and recurring guest star Rachel Skarsten.

"American Idol"

Returns Wednesday, January 16 at 8 p.m. EST on Fox What's Ahead: Feuds! Divas! Dawgs! Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban join the judging panel alongside veteran Randy Jackson for Season 12.

"Anger Management"

Returns Thursday, January 17 at 9 p.m. EST on FX. Where We Left Off: After Charlie and Kate slept together, they were in a weird place with their relationship. And when Charlie's daughter Sam kissed a girl at school, a photo wound up on Facebook and Charlie and Jennifer questioned their daughter's sexual orientation. What's Ahead: 70+ more episodes. And in Season 2, Charlie will blow up at his sister's baby shower and will question if his father Martin is developing Alzheimer's. Cee Lo Green will stop by as a version of himself, seeking Charlie's assistance under Hollywood pressure.

"Archer"

Returns Thursday, January 17 at 10 p.m. EST on FX. Where We Left Off: The ISIS crew -- including Archer -- were held captive on the Space Station Horizon What's Ahead: A "Bob's Burgers" crossover! H. Jon Benjamin provides the voice of both Archer and Bob.

"The Following"

Monday, January 21 at 9 p.m. EST on Fox Starring: Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, Shawn Ashmore, Natalie Zea, Annie Parisse What's It About: Ryan Hardy's (Bacon) been out of the FBI game for a while, that is until his biggest catch, serial killer Joe Carroll (Purefoy) resurfaces ... along with a cult-like following ready to carry out his bidding.

"The Taste"

Tuesday, January 22 at 8 p.m. EST on ABC Starring: Anthony Bourdain, Nigella Lawson, Ludo Lefebvre, Brian Malarkey What's It About: Think "The Voice" (there are teams and coaches), plus "Top Chef" (culinary competition) and you've got ABC's "The Taste."

"White Collar"

Returns Tuesday, January 22 at 10 p.m. EST on USA Where We Left Off: Peter (Tim DeKay) and Neal (Matt Bomer) stepped into the boxing ring to infiltrate a white collar boxing club. Neal discovered his father was still alive (and played by Treat Williams!) What's Ahead: Peter and Neal search for the truth about Neal's dad and his crimes and Neal goes undercover with the Irish mob ... And hopefully, more boxing.

"Dallas"

Returns Wednesday, January 28 at 9 p.m. EST on TNT. Where We Left Off: Slaps, sex and secrets filled the first season of the new "Dallas." The season ended with John Ross (Josh Henderson) teaming up with J.R. (Larry Hagman) to destroy Christopher (Jesse Metcalfe) and Elena (Jordana Brewster). What's Ahead: Familiar faces return and the Ewings say goodbye to J.R. after series star Larry Hagman passed away about half way into filming Season 2. Producers will incorporate his death into the story.

"The Americans"

Wednesday, January 30 at 10 p.m. EST on FX. Starring: Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Noah Emmerich What's It About: Elizabeth (Russell) and Phillip (Rhys) Jennings are the perfect couple: They've got two kids and are living the life of every American in the '80s ... but they just so happen to be KGB spies posing as regular ol' US citizens.

"Do No Harm"

Thursday, January 31at 10 p.m. EST on NBC Starring: Steven Pasquale, Alana de la Garza, Phylicia Rashād, John Carroll Lynch What's It About: A brilliant neurosurgeon (Pasquale) has a big secret: a very villainous dual personality. It's a modern-day Jekyll and Hyde story mixed with a medical drama.

"Rules of Engagement"

Returns Monday, February 4 at 8:30 p.m. EST on CBS Where We Left Off: Audrey (Megyn Price) was upstaged at her own baby shower by Brenda (Sara Rue). Meanwhile, Russell (David Spade) started to display creative talents after taking a break from women. What's Ahead: Sitcom hijinks!

"Smash"

Returns Tuesday, February 5 at 9 p.m. EST on NBC and moves to its normal Tuesdays at 10 p.m. EST timeslot on February 12 on NBC Where We Left Off: Karen (Katharine McPhee) wowed the crowd as Marilyn Monroe in previews of "Bombshell" in Boston. What's Ahead: More Broadway drama! There's a new musical in town that could rival "Bombshell" for all the buzz. Plus guest stars Jennifer Hudson, Liza Minnelli, Sean Hayes, Jesse L. Martin and more.

"Body of Proof"

Returns Tuesday, February 5 at 10 p.m. EST on ABC Where We Left Off: Peter (Nicholas Bishop) saved Megan (Dana Delany) from a serial killer, but was stabbed in the process. What's Ahead: New blood! Bishop, John Carroll Lynch and Sonja Sohn are out and Mark Valley is in.

"Community"

Returns Thursday, February 7 at 8 p.m. EST on NBC Where We Left Off: Evil Abed, "lawsuits" and sandwich shops filled the "Community" Season 3 finale that aired what feels like 30 years ago. What's Ahead: Six seasons and a movie. Just kidding, although that'd be cool (cool cool cool). Malcolm McDowell, Tricia Helfer, Jason Alexander and more will drop by for some Human Beings antics. Plus, Chevy Chase will depart the show.

"Touch"

Returns Friday, February 8 at 8 p.m. EST on Fox Where We Left Off: Martin (Kiefer Sutherland) and Jake (David Mazouz) fled to California and met up with Lucy (Maria Bello). What's Ahead: Martin (Sutherland) and Jake (David Mazouz) soak up the Los Angeles sun ... and find themselves in the middle of a "global conspiracy."

"Survivor"

Returns Wednesday, February 13 at 8 p.m. EST on CBS Starring: Jeff Probst, unnamed contestants What's Ahead: Fans vs. Favorites, Round 2

"Southland"

Returns Wednesday, February 13 at 10 p.m. EST on TNT. Where We Left Off: Cooper saved Tang, and then Tang got a big promotion becoming sergeant and watch commander. What's Ahead: "One Tree Hill" star Chad Michael Murray joins the cast as goofball Officer Dave Mendoza.

"Zero Hour"

Thursday, February 14 at 8 p.m. EST on ABC Starring: Anthony Edwards, Carmen Ejogo, Scott Michael Foster, Addison Timlin, Jacinda Barrett and Michael Nyqvist What's It About: Think "National Treasure" and "Da Vinci's Code," but on TV and starring Dr. Greene from "ER." Edwards plays Hank Galliston, the publisher of Modern Skeptic Magazine. When his wife is abducted, Hank and his pals are joined by the FBI as they attempt to crack various conspiracies and get his wife back.

"The Amazing Race"

Returns Sunday, February 17 at 8:00 p.m. EST on CBS Starring: Phil Keoghan, unnamed contestants What's Ahead: Globetrotting adventure.

"Cult"

Tuesday, February 19 at 9 p.m. EST on The CW Starring: Matt Davis, Alona Tal, Jessica Lucas, Robert Knepper What's It About: Matt Davis stars as Jeff, a journalist who investigates his brother's disappearance and his involvement with a group of obsessive fans who have formed a pseudo-cult around a TV series ... about a cult.

"Golden Boy"

Premieres Tuesday, February 26 at 10 p.m. EST. Special showing on Tuesday, March 5 at 10 p.m. EST before moving to its regular Fridays at 9 p.m. EST time period on March 8 on CBS Starring: Theo James, Chi McBride, Kevin Alejandro, Bonnie Somerville What's It About: The series charts the rise of Walter William Clark Jr. (James), a beat cop who quickly moves up the ranks of the NYPD before becoming commissioner.

"Psych"

Returns Wednesday, February 27 at 10 p.m. EST Where We Left Off: Henry (Corbin Bernsen) got back into the detective game with the help of Shawn (James Roday) and Gus (Dule Hill). But the case ended with a bang as Henry was shot by a former friend. What's Ahead: Parminder Nagra joins the cast as a love interest of Gus. Plus, the long-awaited musical episode airs! Look for episodes inspired by "Clue" and "The Blair Witch Project" and for guest stars Jeffrey Tambor and Anthony Michael Hall, as well.

"All-Star Celebrity Apprentice"

Sunday, March 3 at 9 p.m. EST on NBC Starring: Trace Adkins, Stephen Baldwin, Gary Busey, Penn Jillette, Lil Jon, Bret Michaels, Dennis Rodman, Dee Snider, Marilu Henner, La Toya Jackson, Claudia Jordan, Omarosa, Lisa Rinna, Brande Roderick What's It About: It's "Celebrity Apprentice," but with contestants who have already been to the boardroom with Donald Trump.

"Red Widow"

Sunday, March 3, 9:00 p.m. EST and moves to its regular timeslot on Sunday, March 10, 10:00 p.m. EST on ABC Starring: Radha Mitchell, Goran Visnjic, Clifton Collins, Jr., Sterling Beaumon What's It About: Marta Walraven (Mitchell)'s husband Evan supports the family by exporting weed and is involved in the world of organized crime with Bratva, Russian gangsters. After Evan's murder, Marta seeks to protect her kids, but gets tangled in the seedy underworld.

"Fashion Star"

Returns Friday, March 8 at 8 p.m. EST on NBC What's Ahead: Mentors Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and John Varvatos return to the show with new host Louise Roe as 13 new contestants compete for the chance to launch their own clothing line.

"Dancing With the Stars"

Returns Monday, March 18 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC Starring: Tom Bergeron, Brooke Burke Charvet, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman and unnamed celebrity contestants. What's Ahead: Celebrities dancing.

"The Voice"

Returns Monday, March 25 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC. Starring: Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Usher and Shakira What's Ahead: Presumably, a lot less ridiculously outfits without Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green.

"Game of Thrones"

Returns Sunday, March 31 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO Where We Left Off: War came. <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/maureen-ryan/game-of-thrones-finale-recap_b_1566867.html">Read Maureen Ryan's recap for more</a>. What's Ahead: Tons of new cast members played by the likes of Diana Rigg, Iwan Rheon, Mackenzie Crook, Clive Russell and many more. Season 3 will be about half of George R.R. Martin's "A Storm of Swords," one of the series' most beloved books.

"How To Live With Your Parents (For The Rest Of Your Life)"

Wednesday, April 3 at 9:30 p.m. ET on ABC Starring: Sarah Chalke, Elizabeth Perkins, Brad Garrett What's It About: Polly (Chalke) is a recently divorced single mom. Since the divorce, Polly's been having some struggles and decides to move back in with her eccentric parents, Elaine (Perkins) and Max (Garrett). Hijinks ensue.

"Family Tools"

Wednesday, May 1 at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC Starring: Kyle Bornheimer, J.K. Simmons, Leah Remini What's It About: After Tony (Simmons) suffers a heart attack, he's forced to hand over the family handyman business to his bumbling son Jack (Bornheimer).

"The Goodwin Games"

TBA on Fox Starring: Becki Newton, Scott Foley, T.J. Miller What's It About: Three estranged siblings reunite after the death of their father and unexpectedly find themselves heirs to a $20 million fortune ... if they adhere to their dad's wishes.

"Save Me"

TBA on NBC Starring: Anne Heche, Michael Landes and Alexandra Breckenridge. What's It About: Anne Heche stars as Beth, a woman whose life -- and marriage -- is falling apart. However, after a new-death experience, Beth claims God starts speaking to her and sets her on a new life path.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Monday, January 28, 2013

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Omelets

French Toast

Pancakes And Waffles

Bloody Marys

Muffins

Eggs Benedict

Hash Browns And Home Fries

Bagels

Sausage

Oatmeal

Yogurt With Fruit And Granola

Orange Juice

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Friday, January 25, 2013

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

1. Cooking

2. Wondering

3. Talking

4. Dating

5. Writing

Related Video: Modern Technology

Monday, January 21, 2013

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Monday, January 14, 2013

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Monday, January 7, 2013

1. Start Now

2. Seek Help With Pride

3. Find Your Reasons

4. Get Back To The Basics

5. Take Risks

6. Eat Carbs At The Right Time

7. Think Green

8. Don't Forget To Have Fun

9. Clear The Crap

10. Get Enough Protein

11. Get Enough Snooze Time

12. Find A Buddy

13. Eat Naked

14. Drink More Water

15. Take A Walk

16. Create Bite-Sized Goals

17. Get Active After Dinner

18. Take 10 Minutes

19. Think Realistically

20. Eat Breakfast

21. Sign Up Ahead

22. Dance Like You Mean It

23. Take A Break

24. The Twist

25. Eat Close To The Farm

26. Eat Differently In Restaurants

27. Reconnect With Nature

28. Eat Kale

29. Take It Slowly

30. Boot One Bad Habit

31. Chew Your Food

32. Be Aware Of Your Mood

33. Get A Pedometer

34. Stretch — All The Time

35. Try A Burpee ... With A Push-Up

36. Make 'You' Time

37. Eat Seasonally

38. Think About Your Health

39. Do The Math: BMI

40. Don't Limit Yourself. Ever.

41. Makeover Your Fridge

42. Turn Goals Into Events

43. Disconnect

44. Document Everything

45. Don't Think 'Perfect'

46. Invest In Shoes

47. Save 15 Minutes After Your Workout