Best Japanese Diet Tips And Tricks: September 2013

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Why Do I Gain Weight Before My Period?

Weight gain is a normal symptom of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. This symptom of PMS is due to water retention.

Water retention occurs when your body retains more water than it should. This can cause a slight increase in weight as well as bloating.

According to the Mayo Clinic, it is unclear why women experience symptoms of PMS, or why water retention occurs directly before a woman's period. It is suggested that the hormonal changes in the body play a large part.

Symptoms of water retention include a slight increase in weight, bloating and feeling heavier.

According to the Mayo Clinic website, lowering salt intake, being physically active and eating healthier can help reduce water retention before a woman's period.

Water retention is not always preventable, but it is treatable. There are many over-the-counter medications available, such as Midol or Pamprin, that relieve water retention and other symptoms of PMS.

Saturday, September 28, 2013

The 10 Worst Foods That Make You Gain Weight

There are plenty of foods to avoid when dieting, but everyone should avoid eating these foods. The top 10 worst foods to make you gain weight are not only horrible for the waistline, they are horrible for your general health as well.

Donuts have very little nutritional value to begin with. They are typically a fried food, which makes them even worse than simply containing empty calories. Adding chocolate on top of donuts creates one of the worst scenarios for weight gain. Potato chips are simply fried starch--everything you should avoid when on a diet. It doesn't take many of these thin wafers of fat to make you pile on pounds.

Sodas have no nutritional value at all and are commonly loaded with sugar, corn syrup, and more sugar products. Between the caffeine and the sugar the "rush" of energy also triggers a rush of insulin released into the body.

Avoid all fried versions of food. Deep fat frying adds unnecessary fat to the food and clogs arteries as well as adding inches to your waistline. Bacon is the worst offender in the fried foods category because it is basically belly fat from the pig.

White flour products, including white bread and buns, are disastrous to your waistline. They are pure refined carbohydrates that have little value and boost your sugar levels, triggering an insulin release to help store the fat. As soon as that fast fix of sugar is depleted, you crash and your body screams for more sugar.

Whole milk is a great source of calcium and even protein, but it is also loaded with calories. It is always better to eat your calories rather than drink them in the first place because liquid calories do not leave you feeling full or satisfied. Drink nonfat or 1 percent versions to get the nutritional value of milk with fewer calories.

Soy sauce tops the list because it is loaded with salt, but sauces and condiments are largely empty extra calories. Tomato-based sauces are worse than spice-based sauces such as mustard because they are higher in natural and artificially added sugars. Regular salad dressings are a particularly insidious food because they come on top of one of the most common diet foods: salads. Salads are good for diets, excellent for nutritional value, and fantastic for keeping pounds off, so people are often left wondering why the scale is going up instead of down. If your terrific salad is loaded with high-fat, high-calorie dressing, you are more likely to gain weight than lose it. Margarine is simply extra calories laden with trans fat to put on top of healthier food choices.

Alcohol is tough on the system, but beer tops the list. It is high in calories, carbs, and fat for a triple threat to your waistline.

Food for Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a disease of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. The thyroid produces an array of hormones that regulate metabolism and protein synthesis. When production of these hormones is low, the condition called hypothyroidism, symptoms ranging from fatigue to hair loss can result. Using food for hypothyroidism treatment can help stimulate thyroid hormone production by increasing your intake of important nutrients. There are also important foods that interfere with thyroid hormone production that should be avoided.

The amino acid necessary for production of thyroid hormones is L-Tyrosine. Though the body usually produces L-Tyrosine, many protein-rich foods contain this amino acid. Eating chicken, turkey, fish, almonds, avocados, bananas, dairy products, seeds and legumes will increase your body's available supply and facilitate normal thyroid function.

Another necessary ingredient in thyroid hormone production is iodine, which must be taken through the diet. Iodized table salt contains enough iodine to prevent goiter, another condition of the thyroid, but generally does not contain enough to prevent or reverse hypothyroidism. Seafood is usually the best source of iodine in the diet. Iodized salt can be used to increase total iodine intake to between 300 and 400 mcg per day, but daily intake should not 600 mcg per day.

Selenium is a mineral that functions to produce some of the varieties of thyroid hormone. Between 100 to 200 mcg per day are prescribed for hypothyroidism. Many protein-rich foods are also good sources of selenium, especially Brazil nuts, turkey, oats, cod, tuna, eggs and rice. Selenium can be toxic at doses above 400 mcg, so moderation is necessary when increasing selenium intake or using supplements.

Zinc, vitamins B2, B3, B6, B12, and the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E are also involved in improving thyroid function. To increase your intake of these foods, it is recommended to eat whole grain bread products (zinc and B vitamins), cold-pressed olive oil (for vitamin E), dairy products, meat and shellfish (B12). Eating these foods in variety provides many essential nutrients that nourish the thyroid and promote general health.

Foods that interfere with thyroid hormone production are goitrogens. These foods should ideally be avoided, but if they are consumed they should be cooked to deactivate their goitrogenic effect. Common goitrogens include cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, soy, spinach, peanuts, peaches and pine nuts. It's also recommended to avoid stimulants including caffeine and nicotine, and alcohol.

Friday, September 27, 2013

Diets for People With Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is the condition when the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. There are a number of possible causes of this, including iodine deficiency (a common cause in developing countries); "Hashimoto's thyroiditis", which is an autoimmune disease in which the thyroid gland is attacked by T-cells; postpartum thyroiditis, a condition in women who have recently given birth; and genetics. While treatment hypothyroidism depends on the severity of the condition, there is much debate that a specific diet can help improve the function of the thyroid gland.

One of the most well-known voices in the United States on the specific topic of thyroid health, hypothyroidism in particular, is not a doctor but author and patient advocate Mary Shomon. Ms. Shomon has written a number of books on the topic, including the New York Times bestseller "The Thyroid Diet: Manage Your Metabolism for Lasting Weight Loss," and has long fought the notion that the information and advice given to patients with thyroid conditions by doctors is typically misleading and often flat out wrong. In 1995 Ms. Shomon was diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and was given what she feels was useless and damaging information by her doctors in treating her condition. Over the years she developed a plan that led to how she successfully manages her condition and gives advice to all different kinds of thyroid conditions.

She describes her "Thyroid Diet" as a low-glycemic (low sugar), good fat, and good-carb. Vegetables and fruits high in fiber such as broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, apples bananas, and pears are an important element to the diet for hypothyroidism, but warns not to eat vegetables such as broccoli or cabbage raw because they are goitrogenic (which is a quality that may aggravate hypothyroidism by enlarging the thyroid gland but can be diffused by cooking foods that have this characteristic). As for good carbs, she recommends one or two servings a day of starchy carbs like cereal with high fiber or a bran muffin. Good fats include those found in fish oils, fatty acids, olive oil and avocados. Trans fats and saturated fats should be avoided altogether. The diet is designed to be complemented by exercise and a variety of supplements including thyromine, iodine, vitamin B, and vitamin C.

Dr. Todd Nippoldt, an endocrinologist at the Mayo Clinic, is symbolic of the experts that Mary Shomon has targeted.

According to Dr. Nippoldt, there is no diet that can help improve the function of the thyroid. Dr. Nippoldt also believes that the avoidance of specific foods will not help improve the function of the thyroid. However, Dr. Nippoldt believes that the absorption of the synthetic thyroid hormone taken as a treatment for hypothyroidism can be affected by consuming too much fiber. He also believes that other foods and supplements can have the same negative impact on synthetic thyroid hormone absorption, including cottonseed meal, walnuts, soybean flour, calcium supplements, antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, and iron supplements. In addition, he also believes that certain medications like sucralfate used to treat ulcers and cholestyramine and colestipol used for the treatment of high cholesterol can have the same negative effect.

Does Cymbalta Cause Weight Gain?

If you suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain or depression, you may be prescribed Cymbalta. Cymbalta treats these disorders by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. There have been reports of dizziness, drowsiness and nausea occurring as a side effect.

Cymbalta is one of several drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These chemicals are involved in taking a message from one nerve cell to another. The message travels down through a nerve until reaching the next nerve cell. When these chemicals reach the next cell, they turn the nerve cell on to receive the message. The first cell will absorb or "reuptake" the remaining chemicals. When this happens, the chemicals become unbalanced. This can contribute to depression or anxiety. Cymbalta blocks the reuptake process from occurring. This allows the chemicals to remain between the nerve cells in the brain where they belong.

One percent of the individuals who participated in clinical studies reported a weight gain while taking the medication. This is opposite of the findings of individuals losing weight while taking Cymbalta. Those who have gained weight were asked to discuss the weight gain with their physician about lifestyle changes in diet and exercise as well as changing to another medication.

Weight gain is one of the side effects of Cymbalta (duloxetine hydrochloride)--a finding based on clinical trials of Cymbalta in which the drug was studied thoroughly and documented all side effects.

In the clinical studies, the evidence showed that 2 percent of the patients were taking Cymbalta for fibromyalgia experienced weight gain. It is unknown exactly how Cymbalta works with fibromyalgia or why the increase in the percentage of weight gain.

If you have noticed weight gain while taking Cymbalta, speak with a physician. You may have a complete examination done to determine if there were other reasons for the weight gain. Incorporating a healthy lifestyle reducing alcohol intake, eating healthy foods, increasing exercising, receiving adequate sleep and reducing stress in life will aid in this endeavor.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

What Are the Causes of Water Weight Gain?

Our bodies require water to function properly. But sometimes, the body's ability to balance fluids goes haywire. Instead of flushing fluids, the body begin retaining or storing water. This results in water weight or fluid retention. A key to fighting water retention is knowing the possible causes.

Fluid or water retention refers to the unusual collection of water in the body. Several factors contribute to fluid retention, and signs of retention include sudden weight gain, abdominal bloating, swollen ankles and puffy hands and face. Water weight is often mistaken for body fat. But unlike fat, you can get rid of several pounds of water weight within days.

Medications are a common cause of water weight. The amount of water retained depends largely on the dosage and the length of time you take the drug. Common culprits include oral contraceptives and prescription steroids such as prednisone.

Reducing your dosage or taking an alternative drug may flight water weight and restore your body's ability to flush excess fluids. Speak with a doctor before altering your medications.

Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is essential to good health. Water helps keep joints lubricated, flushes toxins from the body and strengthens your immune system. In addition, drinking plenty of water helps your body combat water weight.

Dehydration and water weight go hand in hand. When your body doesn't receive adequate water or fluids, it begins storing water, as opposed to flushing liquids. This generates extra weight and leaves you with a bloated feeling.

Too much sodium in your diet is a primary cause of water weight. According to the Mayo Clinic, adults should take in between 1,500 and 2,400 mg of sodium a day. Exceeding this recommended dose can prompt the storing of salt and dehydration, which leads to water weight. Check package labels before eating, and choose fresh foods over processed foods.

Diet also contributes to water weight. Carbohydrates and potassium play a crucial role in the storing of fluids in your body. Carbs include bread, pasta, rice and cereals. And although filling, water normally attaches to carbohydrates and causes water weight. What's more, a diet low in potassium (a nutrient that balances water levels in the body) can result in increased fluid retention. Reduce carbs intake and eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas to keep water weight at bay.

How to Gain Weight for Women

Most women want to lose weight. However, some women try desperately to gain weight but are unable to. They face harsh criticism about their weight and size, perhaps even more so than overweight women. Being underweight can be a major health problem, but there are solutions to help women gain weight.

Instructions

Get a checkup at your doctor's office. Women who have a hard time gaining weight may have a problem with hyperthyroidism, which is treatable.

Eat the right amount and types of food. Eat a balanced diet of fruits and veggies, whole grains and proteins. Avoid foods with trans fats.

Drink shakes. Meal shakes offer a large number of calories, vitamins and nutrients. They are also convenient to drink when on the go.

Eat a variety of healthy snacks. Eating snacks raises calorie count, which helps with weight gain. Snack on a variety of healthy fruits, vegetables, dairy products and nuts. Healthy dairy snacks include yogurts, cheese sticks and cottage cheese. Almonds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, and other nuts offer high calories in small portions.

Talk to a nutritionist. Nutritionists help create individualized eating plans for short- and long-term goals. The nutritionist will work with you to get you to a healthy body weight, offering a meal plan that is acceptable to both you and your physician.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Why Do You Gain Weight After a Hysterectomy?

Weight gain after a hysterectomy occurs because of the immediate shift in hormones if the ovaries are removed. If the ovaries aren't removed, your transition into menopause will be more gradual although perhaps faster than it would have been if you hadn't had a hysterectomy.

When ovaries are removed during this procedure, this is considered a complete hysterectomy. You will instantly become menopausal. The ovaries produce androstenedione, estrogen and progesterone. Once the ovaries are removed, these hormone levels drop drastically.

One of the outcomes is that you will find that you are gaining weight around your waist. Women who go through natural menopause experience the same thing, according to Womenshealth.org.

When you gain weight in your abdomen following a hysterectomy or natural menopause, this is because of a decrease in estrogen and an increase in male hormones called androgens. Men are inclined to gain weight in their midsection and this same thing will happen to women when their estrogen levels decrease.

When a hysterectomy is done, this can upset the balance of androgens in relation to estrogen. The same thing happens during natural menopause. There are more androgens, which can cause male characteristics, such as midsection weight gain along with hair growth on the face and a deeper voice, to occur.

Everydayhealth.com recommends that you exercise more, use weights to build up your body mass and cut back on simple carbohydrates that have a high glycemic index. In addition, increase your intake of protein.

As you get older, your metabolism slows and you are likely to retain water. Both of these factors make weight gain and bloating likely. Try eating less.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Diet for Hypothyroid Patients

Hypothyroidism is a disease in which the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to run all of the body functions at a normal rate. This can cause both mental and physical fatigue, weight gain, intolerance to cold, a slow heart rate and constipation. Many patients with hypothyroidism often find losing weight, or even maintaining a normal weight, difficult. Despite these problems, the hypothyroid patient can maintain weight or even lose it if he sticks close to a regulated diet.

The thyroid is responsible for the proper functioning of the heart, lungs, digestive system, skin and brain and for strengthening hair, nails and bones. It also helps the body convert calories into energy and process carbohydrates. Since the body needs extra help to process and convert elements of food into nutrients and energy, a hypothyroid patient should either stick to a low to moderate carbohydrate diet or a traditional low-calorie diet.

A low carbohydrate diet is one that restricts the amount of carbohydrates consumed in a day. This causes the body to burn fat for fuel and energy instead of carbohydrates. Hypothyroid patients should eat foods that are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals but low in carbohydrates. Green vegetables, carrots, cauliflower, cabbage, squash, pumpkin and radishes are all healthy, low carbohydrate vegetables. While pinto beans, navy beans, kidney beans and black beans are more moderate in carbohydrate count, they should still be eaten, because they are healthy sources of protein. Avoid white breads, pasta, potatoes, corn and foods rich in sugar. Most fruits can be eaten in small quantities, but the best fruits for this type of diet are berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and strawberries.

A low calorie diet limits the number of calories a person can consume in one day. A typical diet is about 1,500 calories per day. Individual meal intake should be about 500 calories. Eating mini meals or snacking is not recommended for the hypothyroid patient. According to Mary J. Shomon, author of "Living Well with Hypothyroidism," eating mini-meals will actually make the hypothyroid patient's metabolism slow down.

Eat meals at a regular time every day, and never eat anything after dinner.

The hypothyroid patient often has overly dry skin that cracks, peels or becomes brittle. Drinking lots of water will help the skin retain elasticity and control some skin dryness. Daily recommended water intake for a male is 3 liters and for a female, about 2.2 liters. Keeping the body hydrated will also aid in weight loss.

Dangers of Weight Gain After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass (also known as Roue en Y, or RNY) is a procedure in which part of your stomach and upper intestine is surgically removed, providing for malabsorption of calories and reduced stomach capacity. It results in a massive and virtually immediate weight loss, but the severe weight loss combined with later weight gain can be a dangerous combination.

During the initial weight loss, most patients drop to about 15 to 30 pounds less than their plateau weight. Most people do not gain back anywhere near the amount they lost, but they do gain back some weight.

Despite the fact that the stomach has been surgically reduced, overeating over time can stretch the stomach out. The stomach can even return to its original size over time with continued overeating, which virtually reverses the surgery.

Because insulin is very sensitive to weight, diabetes can disappear with weight loss but can also return very quickly with weight gain because the existing insulin production is no longer sufficient for the weight.

High blood pressure, like diabetes, can quickly return with weight gain because it is a symptom of an overwhelmed system.

Weight gain, rapid weight loss and then additional weight gain can put a person seriously at risk for heart disease because it compromises the strength of blood vessels and muscles, and adds to the stress that the surgical anesthesia already placed on the heart and surrounding tissues.

How to Make Milkshakes to Gain Weight

It is often cheaper and healthier to make milkshakes to gain weight rather than purchase a pre-made shake mix. A tasty bulk-up shake can be made by using a protein, a carbohydrate, and a dietary fat. For this recipe, the protein is skim milk powder, oats are the carbohydrate, and peanut butter is the dietary fat. This recipe makes one serving, which contains approximately 685 calories. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Remove the lid from the blender and add one cup of skim milk. Whole, 1%, 2%, and soy milk can be substituted, if necessary or desired.

Add four tablespoons of skim milk powder to the blender. Add cup of raw oats, and replace the lid on the blender. Blend for fifteen to twenty seconds on medium speed.

Peel both bananas and slice them into small circular pieces. Remove the lid from the blender, and add them to the shake, along with three tablespoons of peanut butter.

Blend the mixture, starting on the lowest speed and gradually working up to the highest. Several seconds should be spent on each speed setting. Blend for at least 45 to 50 seconds in total.

Ensure the blender is turned off before removing the lid. Pour the shake directly into a large glass and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate to drink later.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

What Causes Rapid Weight Gain in Women?

According to traditional belief, reasons for weight gain are lack of exercise and unhealthy eating habits. These factors are undoubtedly responsible for weight gain, but there can be more to it, especially when it comes to rapid weight gain in women. It is frustrating when you are unaware of the cause of weight gain and are unable to fix it. Many medical conditions can be responsible for unreasonable weight gain in women and can lead to diseases such as diabetes, fertility issues and other problems.

Polycystic ovary syndrome can be one of the possible reasons of rapid and unexplainable weight gain in women. It usually starts building up around puberty, and the weight gain goes on for years as women are unaware of their condition. In this syndrome, ovaries or other adrenal glands excrete too much of a male hormone. Some of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome include thinning of hair, excessive facial hair, acne problem and irregular periods. The cause of this syndrome is unknown and is thought to be genetic.

Menopause causes a number of changes in the body, one of which is redistribution of weight in the body. This period in a woman's life brings about drastic hormonal changes in the body, which leads to a number of problems such as greater appetite, lack of sleep and depression. These hormonal changes are permanent and make it very hard to maintain body weight during the start of the menopause years. Rapid weight gain from menopause can be controlled at some level by eating right and regular exercise.

Cushing syndrome in women is caused by a tumor in pituitary glands that results in hormonal imbalance. This syndrome is due to the rise in the level of the hormone cortisol in the body that is also released when a person is stressed. The body reacts to this hormonal disturbance by storing energy and increasing weight. It is a rare metabolic disorder that can go undiagnosed over the years and result in rapid weight gain in women.

Birth control pills are one of the major reasons of uncontrolled rapid weight gain in women today. The increase in weight because of these pills is not excessive but is rapid. Other drugs and medications that may be a reason of rapid weight gain in women include antidepressants, diabetic medications, migraine relievers, anti-psychotic and anti-inflammatory medicines. The weight gain from the use of medications can be taken care of through tough exercise routines and a healthy diet plan.

Saturday, September 21, 2013

How to Treat Hypothyroidism Without Medication

If you have hypothyroidism, it means that your body is not producing enough thyroid hormone. This hormone controls how your body uses energy. When left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to high cholesterol, heart attack and stroke. As with any serious medical condition it is best to consult a medical professional regarding any and all treatments and remedies for hypothyroidism. That said, there are many ways to treat hypothyroidism without medication.

Instructions

Take a multivitamin to ensure you are not deficient in any of the essential nutrients your body needs to function properly. Find a multivitamin made for your sex and age group.

Increase your iodine intake by taking a kelp supplement or bladderwrack. If you are allergic to iodine, this step should be skipped. Many people who are allergic to shellfish are actually allergic to iodine.

Take a selenium supplement. Selenium is an important part of hormone conversion and a selenium deficiency can decrease the activity of the thyroid.

Take a tyrosine supplement. Tyrosine helps convert iodine to thyroid hormone. When taken as a supplement, it can increase the production of thyroid hormone thus helping treat hypothyroidism.

Eat more whole grains, seafoods, nuts and seeds. These foods are included in the hypothyroidism diet because they contain the nutrients your body needs for your thyroid to function properly.

Visit your doctor regularly so he or she can screen you for complications. Regular blood work is necessary to ensure your hypothyroidism treatment is working.

Hypothyroid Symptoms in Men

Hypothyroid is also called underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, and can be caused by certain medications, medical treatments or direct damage to the thyroid gland. In some men, hypothyroidism may develop slowly while in others it occurs rapidly, resulting in more severe symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, symptoms of hypothyroid in men include fatigue and changes in physical appearance.

Men with hypothyroid may experience digestive problems such as frequent constipation and slower metabolism of alcohol.

Both mental and physical fatigue are symptoms of hypothyroid in men that may lead to poor athletic endurance and decreased work performance.

Hypothyroid may cause men to feel less competitive, lose interest in hobbies and activities and experience more sadness and depression.

Pain and weakness in the joints and muscles is a symptom of hypothyroid in men that may lead to loss of muscle mass.

Skin changes such as dryness, itching, swelling and loss of facial, body and scalp hair are symptoms of hypothyroid in men.

Men with hypothyroid may gain weight without an increase in the amount of calories consumed or decrease in level of physical activity.

Friday, September 20, 2013

What Foods Should I Give My Baby to Gain Weight?

Your baby may be eating solid foods, and at first she was delighted with her new diet. She seemed to be enjoying her rice cereal, peas and carrots. She still eats fairly well, but she's not gaining weight. During her last checkup, perhaps your baby was on the low end of the percentile growth chart. You pediatrician is a bit concerned, and he may recommend a variety of methods to encourage your baby to gain weight.

Feed baby plenty of fruits and veggies, along with cereal.

According to KeepKidsHealthy.com, a baby typically grows at a rate of approximately 1 oz. per day from birth to 3 months, then slows to 3/4 oz. from 3 to 6 months, and by late infancy -- 6 to 12 months -- he may be gaining only 1/2 oz. a day. Older children grow even more slowly; for example, toddlers from 1 to 3 years old grow approximately 1/4 oz. a day. Your baby's pediatrician normally won't become concerned, unless your baby's weight falls below the 5th percentile for his age when it is coupled with a declining growth rate. There are various reasons for a baby's failure to thrive, including genetics, nutrition and medical problems. If your baby is not thriving, his pediatrician should give him a thorough examination.

Your pediatrician will likely order a full battery of tests.

During the evaluation, your pediatrician will ask for a detailed history of your child's nutritional intake. She will want to know the exact amounts and types of foods your baby is eating and drinking, including juice. In addition, she will want to know about the presence of any medical symptoms, such as diarrhea, fever or vomiting. Your pediatrician will likely order a complete physical exam, with extensive screening. If no medical symptoms are detected, your pediatrician may just wish to keep a careful watch on your baby's weight gain for the next few months. In extreme cases, she may refer your baby to a pediatric nutritionist or other specialist.

Avoid letting your baby have too much juice.

To increase your baby's intake of food, your pediatrician may suggest that you incorporate a variety of procedures to make mealtime easier and less stressful. Many pediatricians tell parents to allow the baby to feed himself as much as possible by offering finger foods and to keep him on a schedule of three meals daily with only two to three snacks. Offer juice or other liquids only after mealtime, and avoid trying to "bribe" or force your baby to eat. A baby who engages in a power struggle with his parents may become resistant to eating. Feed your baby high-calorie snacks with lots of nutrients and don't let him fill up on large amounts of juices or soda. Instead, give him breast milk or formula, which has more nutrition.

Additionally, your doctor may encourage you to feed your baby a more concentrated formula. For older babies, you can substitute whole milk, half-and-half, evaporated milk or condensed milk. Offer whole-milk milkshakes, made from ice cream or instant breakfast powder blended with milk. Give her pudding made from whole milk; add cheese or peanut butter to veggies. In addition, you can make a high-calorie gelatin by using fruit juice instead of water. Older babies can eat meats and breads with additional butter or sauces.

In "Parents" magazine, Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson suggests that if your baby is having difficulty gaining weight, you, as the parent, must remember that it's your responsibility to feed him correctly. You must ensure that he learns to eat in a healthy manner by offering a diet that includes veggies, fruits, lean meats and proteins, whole grains, dairy or soy products. In addition, she recommends that you give an underweight baby at least one calorie-dense food at every meal, such as avocado. You can also try cooking with olive oil and fortifying baby's pasta or cereal with 1 tbsp. heavy cream. Dr. Alan Greene adds that you should also give your baby a multivitamin; even very young babies can take a liquid multivitamin as prescribed.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Foods to Avoid With Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition that is one of the most diagnosed but also the most undiagnosed condition in today's population. The symptoms, which are sometimes hard to pin down or explain, include weight gain, headaches, menstrual cramps and constipation. Many people have turned to the Internet in hopes of finding answers to their questions about what is wrong with them. Patient awareness groups have sprung up as individuals compare symptoms and share concerns about which foods contribute to the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

An underactive thyroid is called hypothyroidism, with "hypo" meaning below normal. The thyroid is a gland that is found just below the voice box in the front part of the neck. This small, butterfly-shaped gland plays a significant role, creating just the right balance of hormones needed to regulate metabolism, growth and energy during all phases of life. When the thyroid doesn't create enough, the body begins to react in an attempt to return to health.

The body's response to food and how it regulates hunger is one of the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Some foods are suspected of suppressing the functioning of a normal thyroid, because they affect how much hormone the thyroid produces. Certain foods contain a compound called goitrogens and have this effect when consumed raw. Cruciferous vegetables, which contain goitrogens, include broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, cabbage, rutabaga, mustard greens, kale, spinach, radishes and Brussels sprouts. Some fruits also fall within the goitrogens category. These include peaches and strawberries.

Soy's effect on the thyroid is controversial. Daniel R. Doerge, who is a researcher in the Food and Drug Administration's National Center for Toxicological Research, is quoted in the March 1999 issue of Natural Health magazine as warning, "... I see substantial risks from taking soy supplements or eating huge amounts of soy foods for their putative disease preventive value. There is definitely potential for interaction with the thyroid." He contends that soy can be harmful to the thyroid in these circumstances.

Other doctors do not agree with the theory of soy's role in hypothyroidism. Dr. Christiane Northrup states on her website that normal levels of soy consumption have no disruptive effect on thyroid function. She cites over 70 years of clinical trials that were conducted specifically to determine if soy foods or soy isoflavones affected the thyroid, with negative findings. Soy products include tofu, soy sauce, miso and tempeh.

Polyunsaturated oils are known to affect the thyroid's function. Such oils, although considered part of a normal healthy diet, have been blamed for reducing the ability of thyroid hormones to circulate through the body. Also, tissues respond less efficiently to the thyroid hormone secretion. Dr. Ray Peat supports the theory that polyunsaturated oils block the secretions of the thyroid gland. An alternative is coconut oil, which consists of medium chain fatty acids, or MCFA. These types of acids increase metabolism, which is beneficial to hypothyroid suffers.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

How to Prevent Cortisol and Weight Gain

Cortisol levels are elevated in response to stress, with large amounts released into the blood stream when you are under stress. Since stress can cause us to act out and consume an excess of high calorie foods, weight gain follows. Excess cortisol also can cause your metabolism to slow down. So even if you are not over eating, you still can gain weight, with cortisol storing the most fat in the abdomen. Women who eat high-fat diets have been shown to have both increased cortisol reactivity and greater preference for sweet foods, according to researchers at the University of California at San Francisco. The important thing to do to prevent excess cortisol and weight gain is to reduce or even eliminate stress. There are a few ways to do this.

Instructions

Join a support group or talk to a close friend or relative. Talking to others about your stress can help alleviate it.

Stop over-eating foods high in calories and get rid of your poor diet. Talk to your doctor to set up a diet plan. Eating the right foods can help reduce stress. Eating the wrong foods can actually help raise the levels of cortisol in your body, causing weight gain.

Exercise your body regularly. Exercise will help you lose weight and reduce stress. Cardio is one of the best ways to lose weight fast. Walking, running, swimming or biking are a few forms of cardio. Doing this for at least 20 minutes a day can be great for your body, getting rid of stress, boosting your metabolism, high cortisol levels and excess weight. Exercise increases mood-stimulating neurotransmitters in your brain and reduces high levels of cortisol.

Get a good amount of sleep. Exercising also can help you sleep better. Oncologist Edward T. Creagan, M.D., states that sleep deprivation can be a major stressor. This is not good for your cortisol levels. The National Sleep Foundation found that healthy adults require seven to nine hours of sleep a night.

Meditate. If you are not familiar with meditation, you can attend classes that will teach you. Relaxing your mind and body will reduce stress, thus reducing cortisol levels.

Hypothyroid: Foods to Avoid

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, or when the body does not effectively use this hormone. People with a hypothyroid condition may want to avoid foods that can interfere with thyroid function.

People with low thyroid function should avoid consuming alcohol and caffeinated drinks, including coffee, tea and colas.

Numerous vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables, may suppress thyroid function. These include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, lima beans, mustard greens, radishes, spinach, sweet potatoes and turnips.

Other foods that may inhibit thyroid function include linseed, cassava, millet, peaches, pears, peanuts, pine nuts and soybeans. Red meat should also be limited, as well as processed meats such as sausage and lunch meat.

Certain foods that commonly cause sensitivities also can interfere with thyroid function. These include corn, dairy products and wheat.

Other substances a person with a hypothyroid condition should avoid include trans-fatty acids, such as margarine, and chemical food additives and preservatives.

Monday, September 16, 2013

Why Does Seroquel Cause Weight Gain?

If you are taking or considering Seroquel, you may have heard or read about weight gain as a side effect. Though weight gain is not as significant as relief of your disorder, it is a health issue. There are many things to know and consider regarding Seroquel, including other side effects, options to counter the weight gain, and how you should talk with your doctor.

Seroquel is an antipsychotic drug taken by those who suffer from bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, manic depression and, less frequently, anxiety or eating disorders. Seroquel changes the chemical reactions in your brain and has been found to greatly help those who suffer from these conditions.

Though many people (up to 6 percent) who take Seroquel report a slight to high weight gain, there are other side effects that commonly occur. These include constipation, indigestion, sleepiness, low blood pressure, dry mouth and dizziness. Although these are not very severe, any side effect should be reported to your doctor immediately so it can be monitored.

Weight gain is the most commonly talked about side effect of Seroquel. There are those who only gain a small amount of weight, while others have reported gaining twenty pounds in a month. For some, however, no weight gain was reported at all. It is unclear whether the weight gain is a side effect of the Seroquel, if it is a result of the expectation of gaining weight, or a result of the disorder itself. Though Seroquel manufacturers acknowledge weight gain as a side effect, they cannot pinpoint the reason.

If weight gain has become a problem for you due to Seroquel treatment, there are measures to keep you as healthy as possible. The most important one, of course, is making sure that the food you eat, even if you increase intake, is as healthy as possible. Eating a heart-healthy diet, avoiding foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol, increasing or beginning a daily exercise regimen, and limiting your alcohol intake are all good suggestions for keeping as healthy as possible while taking Seroquel.

No antipsychotic or mental health medication should be taken without a prescription and the advice of a licensed professional. If you are concerned about your weight gain or potential weight gain, talk with your doctor about it. There are options, like switching medications or lowering your dosage, which may help counter it. However, your mental health will probably take precedence, in your psychiatrist's opinion, so the only option you may have is to deal with the weight gain in to maintain a control over your condition.

Sunday, September 15, 2013

How to Lose Weight Without Diet Pills

Being overweight increases your chances for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and many other illnesses. Losing weight can effectively reduce those chances; however, you should avoid the temptations of the vast array of diet pills available. Not only can diet pills add to your risk for heart disease and high blood pressure, they are expensive, cause dependency and can destroy your natural metabolic balance for good. Losing weight is not simple, but you can do it without pills.

Instructions

Decrease your daily caloric intake by 500 calories to lose between 1 and 2 lbs. each week. While counting calories may be slower than powerful diet pills, it is a safe, natural and sure way of shedding pounds. As a general rule, if you are inactive you should take in about 2,000 calories a day. If you are more active, you can eat up to 2,500 calories and still lose weight.

Burn more calories than you eat by adding 30 minutes of brisk exercise to your daily routine. Your choice of exercise will depend on your body type, weight and personal preference. For people carrying 100 extra pounds or more, a simple stroll through the park or cleaning the house is probably enough to burn the extra calories. If you are only trying to lose that last five pounds, you may be better off with weight training, aerobics or jogging.

Eat a wide variety of foods that include all of the vitamins and minerals your body needs to maintain balance and metabolism. Fresh fruits and vegetables are your best source of calories, while trans fats, saturated fats as well as refined flours and sugars should be avoided.

Expect slow results if you want permanent results. While some diet pills offer fast and dramatic weight loss, it is not healthy for your body to lose more than 10 pounds per month. The faster the weight comes off, the less likely you will be able to keep it off. Persistence, lifestyle change and a healthy diet are the best ways to lose weight naturally and safely without dangerous diet pills.

Saturday, September 14, 2013

How to Deal With Weight Gain After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Weight gain after gastric bypass surgery is an emotional and physical setback, but it doesn't have to be the end of the world. Getting support and using creative ways to renew the commitment to losing weight can successfully get you back on the track to losing pounds.

Instructions

Analyze and identify what is triggering the weight gain. Weight loss surgery is just the first step in gaining control of weight. Weight gain after gastric bypass surgery is often triggered by factors that contributed to the original weight gain.

Obtain support. Support can be found at weight loss support groups, gastric bypass support groups, online forums, one-on-one counseling or through peer support from other gastric bypass patients.

Contact the gastric bypass surgery center and inquire about assistance. Most surgery centers are staffed with personnel that can provide assistance and guidance with weight gain after surgery.

Implement a weight-loss plan to tackle the weight gain. The plan should include regular exercise, healthy food choices following the gastric bypass surgery guidelines and ongoing support.

Devise a system to recognize weight gain triggers and a plan to deal with the triggers when they occur. Having a plan in place with alternative behaviors and responses to choose from can help minimize or eliminate excessive eating that leads to weight gain.

Maintain hope and persistence. Its said that it takes 21 days to make a new habit and a thousand days to master it. Take it one day at a time.

Can Eating Too Much Fruit Lead to Weight Gain?

Weight gain is caused by eating more calories than you expend. Fruits and vegetables are part of a nutritious diet, but too much fruit may lead to weight gain. Incorporating fruit into your diet in a healthy way can help keep your weight steady.

Fruits such as apples, peaches, pears, strawberries and blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Fruits have a high water density and are full of fiber, which means that they are naturally low in calories and will help you feel full.

According to the Center For Disease Control, adding fresh fruits and vegetables into your daily diet can help maintain your weight. Adding an excess of fruit to a diet that is already high in calories, may lead to weight gain.

Preparing fruit in certain ways can minimize the nutritional value and add calories. Eating fresh fruit is the best alternative because no sugar or preservatives have been added. Fresh fruit is also high in fiber, which helps you to feel full longer. Choose canned or frozen fruit only if fresh fruit is not available. Be sure to select brands that have no added sugar, creams or syrups.

Vegetables are typically lower in sugar and calories than fruit. According to the Dietary Guidelines For Americans 5th edition, eating more servings each day of vegetables than fruits will help you maintain your weight.

How to Gain Weight on the Thighs & Buttocks

The era when the word skinny ruled the world is over. To get the derriere and thighs you always dreamed of, you will need to make some minor lifestyle changes. All you need to do is combine working the thigh and butt muscles with changing your diet. While you may dread doing this, when you look at yourself in the mirror in eight weeks, you'll be glad you made the effort.

Instructions

Change your diet. To build up more muscle tissue in your thighs and buttocks, you need to consume more quality calories. Get rid of processed food, refined grain products, fatty meats and fast food. Instead, feed your body with fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, whole grains, seeds, foods high in fiber, and low-fat dairy products. The latter group will help in building healthy muscle tissue instead of creating fat deposits.

Have five or six meals throughout the day. Your body is building muscle all day and it needs fuel consistently. If instead, you have three big meals, you will likely put on weight in the wrong places.

Do cardio exercises twice a week for a maximum of 30 minutes. Short cardio exercises increase your metabolism, which will help your body to create muscle tissue. Stick to this routine and don't overdo it. Lots of cardio exercises result in losing general weight instead of gaining it.

Introduce some butt routines into your workout. Take the squat, for example. Stand with your two legs one foot apart. Bend your knees slowly and lower your body until your knees are fully bent. Hold for three to five seconds. Extend the knees until you are standing straight again. Repeat 15 times. Do three sets each day. This will build and firm your gluteal muscles. This exercise also works on the quadricep muscles in your upper legs, making it a perfect exercise for both thighs and buttocks.

Introduce some upper leg routines into your workout. Balance the work among all the upper leg muscles. Work your hamstrings, quadriceps, abductors (outer thighs), and adductors (inner thighs). Do not give excessive attention to a particular leg muscle, as this may result in imbalanced muscles. Take the lying abduction, for example. It works on the inner thigh muscles. Lay down on your side with your head resting on one arm, your other arm resting extended on your hip, your hips stacked and your legs extended straight away from your body. Gently raise the upper leg off the lower leg about two inches. Raise the upper leg again until both legs make a 45-degree angle. Slowly lower and raise the upper leg without making contact with the lower leg. Repeat 15 times. Alternate legs. Do five sets each day. This will build and firm your thighs.

Drink plenty of water. Muscle tissue is made of 75 percent water. No surprise why you would need to drink more water. Also, an increased level of hydration improves your energy level, which you will need for your cardio exercises.

Vegetarian Diet for Hypothyroidism

The thyroid, located at the base of the neck, is a large endocrine gland that controls the body's basal metabolic rate. An underactive thyroid, a condition referred to as hypothyroidism, slows the metabolic rate and increases the possibility of obesity. While the majority of people with hypothyroidism need to take medication, the foods you consume can also have an impact on your thyroid. The vegetarian diet works well to benefit those diagnosed with hypothyroidism.

While there is not a vegetarian diet specifically created for combating hypothyroidism, certain dietary guidelines can prove helpful: Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and stay away from refined sugars. Increase your consumption of whole grains, beans, legumes and proteins. Snack on raw seeds, apricots, prunes and dates. Cook foods in olive or coconut oil. Eat several small, well-balanced meals throughout the day to keep your blood sugar consistent and help with energy. A diet rich in fiber is generally advised, but for people with hypothyroidism, too much fiber can have an adverse affect on thyroid medication. Because iodine is directly related to thyroid function, be sure your diet is rich in sources of iodine, such as sea salt and foods made with seaweed. While iodine supplements are available, you should be able to get enough iodine from natural sources. It is rare for people in developed countries to have an iodine deficiency, and too much iodine can be bad for your health.

There is constant debate about whether or not soy products should be consumed by those with hypothyroidism. The main concern is whether or not the isoflavones (phytoestrogens) in soy have an adverse affect on the thyroid. According to Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D., an endocrinologist at Mayoclinic.com, there is no evidence that shows this correlation. Soy can, however, negatively affect the body's ability to absorb synthetic thyroid medications. Take your medication when you wake up, on an empty stomach, and wait 3 or 4 hours before consuming soy products. The same advice holds true for calcium supplements, iron and antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum.

Another debate revolves around whether it's safe for people with underactive thyroid to eat cruciferous vegetables. This carries important implications for vegetarians, especially. Cruciferous vegetables include brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, kale and cauliflower. These vegetables contain goitrogens (goiter producers) that may interfere with thyroid hormone regulation. Goitrogens are also found in corn, lima beans, peanuts, sweet potatoes and turnips. According to Andew Weil, M.D., noted health expert, because goitrogens are inactivated by light steaming or cooking, you can continue to take advantage of the valuable antioxidant and cancer-protective effects of these foods.

Exercise has been shown to help with metabolism and issues of weight gain and lethargy often spurred on by an underactive thyroid. Never start a new diet or exercise program or take a dietary supplement without first consulting your physician.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

What to Feed a Dog to Help Him Gain Weight

Weight loss is not uncommon in dogs, especially after they have suffered an illness or an injury. Many times food intake needs to be increased or a change needs to be made to help the dog gain weight. In some instances, supplements or help from the vet may be required to get the dog to maintain a healthy weight for its size and breed.

In many cases of weight loss, a dog is simply not being fed the right type of food. The problem is that really cheap dog food doesn't contain what the dog needs most, which is nutrients and calories from the right sources. To help your dog gain weight, be sure that you are feeding a high-quality food. You can determine whether a food is high quality, experts at Dogtime.com say, if it has a meat or meat meal listed as the first ingredient. Grains as a first ingredient means it's a lesser-quality food because these are simply fillers. Sometimes simply feeding a higher-quality food will help a dog gain back any weight he lost while on the lower-quality food.
A lot of dogs around the 1 year age mark experience a drop-off in weight due to a change in food. This is because many owners assume that they can do away with the puppy food, when, according to veterinarian and author Carol Osborne, many breeds, especially the larger ones, need to continue to eat puppy food until the dog is 18 to 24 months old. Be sure to check on breed information for your dog, and talk to your vet if you are not sure.

A dog that has lost weight and continues to keep losing may not be getting enough food. The best place to start with ascertaining the right amount of food is the food itself. On every bag of quality dog food you will find feeding guidelines. Make sure that you read these closely and feed based on that. Some dogs may require a bit more or a bit less. If your dog still seems hungry after eating the recommended amounts of food, try feeding a bit more.

There are calorie supplements on the market for dogs that you can try if nothing else is working. Your veterinarian is your best resource for finding an appropriate calorie supplement for your dog.
Another option is to feed your dog of the amount of dog food and of the recommended amount of puppy chow. Puppy food is higher in fats and calories, and these are often the things that are lacking in an underweight dog. If you do this for a couple of weeks you should start to see the weight coming back on.
If the dog is not able to gain or is not able to maintain weight that has been gained, it is time to see a vet to check for health problems because weight loss that is not temporary can be a sign of a more severe medical condition that needs professional treatment.

Foods Not to Eat With Hypothyroid

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid, located in the neck below the larynx, produces hormones that control metabolism. Hypothyroidism is typically found in women past the age of 50. When you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, changes in your diet can help the absorption of thyroid medicine.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism are depression, fatigue, constipation, sensitivity to cold, weight gain, thinning hair, brittle nails, slow speech, thickness of skin and a decreased sense of taste and smell.

The most commonly prescribed treatment for hypothyroidism is levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Once prescribed, this becomes a lifelong treatment. Even as symptoms go away, Levothyroxine must be taken.

According to MayoClinic.com, there is no hypothyroidism diet but certain foods and supplements should be avoided to ensure they don't conflict with the body's absorption of levothyroxine. Walnuts, soy products, high-fiber foods, and iron and calcium supplements should not be consumed within four hours before or after taking a dosage of levothyroxine. The thyroid replacement drug works best on an empty stomach.

Always discuss diet and treatment options with your doctor.

How to Manage the Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

The most effective way to manage the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism is to treat their source and restore thyroid function. Hypothyroidism, or sluggish thyroid function, can be either a result of iodine deficiency--rare in the United States--or it can stem from an autoimmune condition such as Hashimoto's Disease. Symptoms include lethargy, hair loss, weight gain, depression, and elevated cholesterol levels. It's easy to confuse symptoms of hypothyroidism with signs of many other common ailments, but a simple blood test can establish whether you are suffering from hypothyroidism.

Instructions

Take artificial thyroid hormone medication if you suffer from clinical hypothyroidism. Your doctor will perform a blood test to evaluate your levels of TSH, or Thyroid Replacement Hormone, which your body produces when your thyroid is not functioning effectively. Schedule regular blood tests if you're taking thyroid medication to recheck your TSH levels and adjust the dosage of the medication.

Consume foods high in tyrosine, such as lean meats, fish, and poultry, as well as lentils, avocados, bananas, and seeds such as sesame and sunflower seeds. Avoid vegetables in the brassica family such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, and kale. Also minimize your consumption of soy.

Take a vitamin B complex supplement. Use iodized salt. Do not take an iodine supplement because normal amounts of iodized salt can give you all the iodine you need, and taking too much iodine can negatively impact your thyroid function.

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

How to Gain Weight and Get Fat

It is very easy in the United States to gain weight and get fat. The availability of cheap processed food makes the process much easier on your wallet. In just a few steps, you too can add 20 pounds in one month and a few extra inches on your waist from all of the newly created fat in your tummy. If the next famine hits, you will be well prepared with all of the extra gained weight and fat.

Instructions

Eat lots of processed foods. These foods have high fat, high sugar, and preservatives that let them sit on shelves for a long time without refrigeration. Some great tasting examples include candy bars, cookies, and potato chips. You can eat them throughout the day since they're easy to store and carry around with you when you get the munchies.

The more sugary processed food you eat, the more frequent your munchies will be. This leads into a favorable feedback cycle where you can gain a lot of weight and fat just from candy bars and cookies.

At the same time you're eating processed food, make sure you eat lots of fatty foods as well, such as hamburgers and fried chicken. That sounds very tasty. The massive amounts of sugar in your diet is more than enough for the body to create energy from glucose, so all of the excess sugar and all of the dietary fat will be used to store body fat. Combining both sugar and fat ensures that you will be gaining weight and fat very fast.

If you must eat out, go to a fast food place and order the standard hamburger, fries, and non-diet soda. At some fast food places, you can get the entire combination for less than $4. Gaining weight and fat is easy and cheap on the go as well.

Do not exercise. Exercise will increase muscle, which in turn increases your metabolism, and will eventually lead to loss of weight and fat. If you have an outdoor job, try to get transferred to an office position indoors so you can avoid losing weight.

There are other small ways to avoid exercise as well. If you have the choice of taking the stairs or the elevator, take the elevator.

The worst type of exercise is weight training, not cardio. Weight training can build muscles quickly, especially for somebody out of shape, thus causing increased metabolism and consequently loss of weight and fat. And after the weight training, those muscles that cause higher metabolism will still use up more energy even while you sleep, so you could literally be losing weight while you're asleep. With cardio, the muscle gain is not as much so you lose a lot less fat and weight during the 23 hours of the day you're not doing cardio.

If you are thirsty, choose drinks with lots of sugar such as regular soda and fruit juice. Fruit juice sounds healthy but it's really not due to the high sugar. Even milk is good because the lactose in milk is a sugar too. Milk sometimes has a lot of fat too. If you consume enough sugar over time, you'll eventually develop diabetes, which can make it even easier to gain fat and gain weight.

Avoid diet sodas and water, because both have zero calories and no sugar.

How to Treat Hypothyroidism Through Diet

Hypothyroidism is caused by the insufficient production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland and affects about 3 out of every 100 people in America. Though there are no magical cures for Hypothyroidism, making changes to the diet is one of the easiest ways to help improve the condition naturally.

Instructions

Eat lots of sea vegetables like kelp, nori, dulse, kombu and wakame. Sea vegetables are high in iodine which is commonly low in most patients with Hypothyroidism. Many types of fish, as well as sea salt, are also high in iodone.

Increase your intake of fatty acids with foods like flaxseeds, walnuts and cold water fish. Fatty acids are essential for healthy thyroid function.

Avoids vegetables that are goitrogens, which can suppress healthy thyroid function. These vegetables include kale, broccoli, cauliflower, soy, cabbage and brussels sprouts.

Avoid tap water, which is full of fluorine and chlorine. Both these chemicals can inhibit your bodies ability to absorb iodine.

Monday, September 9, 2013

The Effect of Flaxseed on Hypothyroidism

Flaxseed holds substances that promote good health. Flaxseed is loaded with a fatty acid called alphalinolenic acid, which is beneficial for the heart. This acid belongs to the group of omega-3 fatty acids. Good health requires a proper ratio between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The average American diet consists of too much omega-6 and not enough omega-3 fatty acids.

Hypothyroidism occurs when there is too little thyroid hormone in the blood. The thyroid gland makes thyroid hormones, and when the gland decrease in production, it causes the thyroid to become under-active. This causes several problems in the body. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include constipation, fatigue, inability to handle cold, mental confusion and a slow heart rate. Although the condition affects both men and women, it is most common in women. According to "Alive Magazine, many women develop problems with their thyroid after a condition that is physiological stressful such as a pregnancy or any increases to the adrenal hormones. The Mayo Clinic explains that different natural medicine textbooks advise caution in patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism using flaxseed.

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil benefit the body by protecting against heart disease, lowering cholesterol, and helping to control blood pressure. Other benefits of flaxseed include a reduced risk of developing heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Foods containing flaxseed provide a valuable source of fiber, which helps reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. Flaxseed also relieves constipation and helps control blood sugars in diabetic patients. Magnesium is also present in flaxseed, and it helps control asthma symptoms by keeping airways open.

Flaxseed contains cyanogen, which is okay to have in small amounts; however, eating more than two tbsp. a day could prevent the thyroid from taking up the proper amount of iodine. To make cyanogen inactive, cook it. Flaxseed also contains goitrogens. Goitrogens suppress thyroid functions and are found in different foods such as broccoli, rye, and apricots. Goitrogens can cause a goiter, induce hypothyroidism, and further affect the function of the thyroid and the growth of a thyroid. A standard one cup serving of food containing goitrogens is suggested two to three times per week and can be tolerated by many individuals with hypothyroidism without danger.

Flaxseed was introduced in Mesopotamia, and culinary use has been dated from ancient Greece. The popularity of it decreased after the fall of Rome. Charlemagne, the emperor, helped restore and shape flaxseed in Europe's food culture. He appreciated the different uses of flaxseed and passed laws of consumption and cultivation. This resulted in a widespread use of flaxseed in Europe. It was not until the first colonists arrived in the United States that flaxseed was planted.

Whole flaxseed can be stored in room temperature for up to one year only, and ground flaxseed should be stored in an airtight compartment frozen or refrigerated. There should be no light able to get into the container. Refrigerated flaxseed should be used within 30 days of being ground, and frozen flaxseed should be used within 45 days of storing. Flaxseed can be added to hot cereal, muffins, pancakes, salads, salad dressings, yeast breads and more. It is better to start with a low dose of flaxseed because of its fiber content and slowly increase the amount.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Vitamins to Help Hypothyroid

When you have hypothyroidism, you might feel sluggish and lack energy. Taking vitamins can help sometimes, especially if you are deficient. Take your vitamins a few hours before or after you take your thyroid medication because some supplements, such as iron, can interfere with the absorption of your medication. Do not take large amounts of any vitamin or mineral without consulting your doctor if you are on thyroid medication because your thyroid might become overstimulated.

Take a quality multivitamin each day that has 100 percent of the recommended daily allowance for vitamins. The vitamin you select should have vitamins A, C and E. It should also contain the B-complex vitamins, which are noted for boosting metabolism, something that slows when you have hypothyroidism. Vitamin A is important for proper iodine absorption and functioning of your thyroid. Vitamin C works as an antioxidant; you can take up to 1,000 milligrams a daily. Vitamin D has also been shown to stimulate the thyroid. Too much vitamin D, though, can cause adverse effects such as insomnia and rapid heart rate if you are already taking thyroid medication.

Choose a multivitamin supplement that also has minerals such as calcium, magnesium, selenium and zinc. Zinc and selenium work better if taken together and are most effective if you have low levels before you begin the supplements. Calcium and magnesium blood levels often are abnormal in people who have hypothyroidism. By supplementing with these two minerals, you might see an improvement in your symptoms. Your multivitamin and mineral supplement should also contain trace minerals, because these minerals often become unbalanced first, which leads to lower than normal levels of calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium.

Try L-tyrosine only if you are not already taking thyroid medication and if you do not have high blood pressure. L-tyrosine is an amino acid that can be taken in capsule form. It is an important neurotransmitter precursor and can be useful for treating the depression often associated with hypothyroidism. It also might help restore normal functioning of your thyroid gland. L-tyrosine is usually taken three times daily at a dosage of 500 milligrams.

Take fish oil or flax oil pills each day. Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in the body, reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. They also are thought to lessen the severity of hypothyroid symptoms and act to protect the thyroid gland. Omega-3 fatty acids help improve concentration and memory by supporting nerve cells in the brain. This might help alleviate brain fog and depression that often accompanies hypothyroidism.

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Diet for Hypothyroid Disease

Hypothyroidism is characterized by the thyroid gland's inability to produce enough of the thyroid hormone. This hormone regulates metabolism and body temperature. Digestive symptoms can include constipation, fatigue and weight gain. Diets for hypothyroidism can help support synthetic thyroid replacements like Synthroid to be properly absorbed by the body and help alleviate symptoms. Find out what foods you can eat to help.

The thyroid gland needs iodine to be able to function. Certain foods bind iodine and hinder the positive effects of medication. When taking your thyroid medication, be consistent by taking it at the same time every day. Avoid these foods for at least several hours before and after taking your medication. According to Mayo Clinic at www.mayoclinic.com, eating too much dietary fiber can interfere with thyroid replacement medication. Fibrous foods include cabbage, broccoli, buckwheat, kale, oats, rye and legumes. In addition, calcium will not allow for the medication to be properly absorbed. These foods include milk, cheese and calcium-enriched juices. Also, refrain from taking any supplements with calcium or aluminum because they can interfere with the medication.

The University of Maryland Medical Center at www.umm.edu suggests cutting out unhealthy fat like red meat and processed foods. Replace beef with low-fat proteins like fish, chicken and turkey. Trans fatty foods can elevate cholesterol, which worsens the symptoms of high cholesterol and weight gain found in people with hypothyroidism. Incorporate more fresh vegetables, whole grains and fruits. Eat foods packed with antioxidants like blueberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, squash and cherries. Those with hypothyroidism are oftentimes depleted of vitamins and nutrients. Get the nutrition you need by adding foods packed with vitamins in your diet.

The University of Michigan at www.med.umich.edu reports that hypothyroidism can be caused by lack of iodine in the diet. Though rare, it is possible to not eat enough iodine for your thyroid to function. The university recommends for adult women and men to get 100 micrograms of iodine daily. Also, help your underproductive thyroid glands by adding more iodine in your diet. The majority of people get their iodine from eating table salt. Table salt is high in iodine, yet can also elevate blood pressure and cause hypertension . Eat foods with iodine like cod fish, haddock, eggs, seaweed, kelp and sea salt. Sushi is a great choice for those trying to get more iodine. The nori seaweed used in sushi rolls is full of iodine. Choose sushi rolls made with brown rice. Experiment at home by making your own rolls with foods important to your hypothyroid diet.

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Hypothyroid Weight Loss Plan

Hypothyroidism affects approximately five in 100 Americans, most of whom are women. This thyroid disorder occurs when the gland's functioning slows down, which disrupts certain other functions within the body, such as metabolism. Those suffering from hypothyroidism are likely to gain weight due to the slowing of the metabolism. However, once the thyroid gland is under control, there are ways to lose such weight in a healthy way.

Metabolism in the body is regulated by the thyroid gland. Unfortunately, hypothyroidism sufferers do not detect that there is an initial problem with the thyroid gland until after they have gained weight as a result of metabolic dysfunction. Once diagnosed by a doctor, proper treatment may take some time, perhaps months. An endocrinologist will test the blood for TSH levels and prescribe thyroid medication, such as Synthroid. Regular blood tests will be given to determine whether or not the right amount of medication is present in the body.

Medication should be taken as directed; otherwise it will not work properly. For example, the common Synthroid medication has to be taken every morning on an empty stomach in order to work efficiently.

Only after assuring that a patient is getting the right amount of thyroid medication will weight loss be feasible. An individual under treatment will be able to detect future thyroid problems if they start to gain weight again after losing it.

According to "Thyroid and Weight," individuals with hypothyroidism usually gain between five and 10 pounds, most of which is water weight. Losing this weight does not happen immediately upon treatment. Unfortunately, as with any prior weight gain, losing the extra pounds takes time and effort.

Cutting calories does not equal successful weight loss with hypothyroid individuals, unless they had consumed an excessive amount prior to treatment. The primary way to lose weight gained through hypothyroidism is through regular exercise. According to vaxa.com, an individual under treatment for hypothyroidism should exercise for 60 minutes every day in order to lose weight. Also, strength training will aid in building muscles and revving up the metabolism, which will further enhance weight loss.

A person who has hypothyroidism should also be aware of the types of foods they consume. Foods that are rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, help support the thyroid gland. Iodine-rich foods are also vital to thyroid function. Iodine can be found in eggs, seafood and iodized salt.

There are also certain foods to avoid while under thyroid treatment, such as caffeine and alcohol, as they can further disrupt the body's natural metabolic flow.

Hypothyroid Weight Loss Diet

Hypothyroidism is another way of saying you have an under-active thyroid. According to AnneCollins.com, it is 10 times more likely to affect women than men and is most common between the ages of 40 and 50. Thyroid disease can be treated by dieting, exercising and destressing your body. Some doctors may also treat patients with a thyroid hormone. Doing nothing about hypothyroidism can lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes, fibromyalgia or infertility, just to name a few complications. Getting serious about weight loss can dramatically improve your condition.

Despite medical treatment, people with thyroid issues often have difficulty losing weight. It's important for patients to focus on a diet that is high in fiber, low calorie and contains low-glycemic carbohydrates. Carbs that have a high glycemic rating are high in refined sugar, so they cause cravings and fluctuations in your energy levels. Eat spinach, asparagus, olive oil, apricots, sunflower seeds, avocados, whole grain cereals and oily fish to boost thyroid function. It may also help to increase the amount of selenium in your diet by eating tuna, whole wheat bran, onions, tomatoes and Brazil nuts. Meals should be spaced out and timed every few hours so they impact your hormones as much as they can. Exercise is also essential to any hypothyroid weight loss diet. It speeds up your metabolism and increases weight loss. Try to do 30 minutes of exercise every day.

There are thyroid-damaging foods to avoid or limit. Eat less of the foods that can interfere with iodine uptake. This includes broccoli, cabbage, kale, kohlrabi, linseed, mustard, sweet potatoes, lima beans, peanuts and products made of soy. Avoid caffeine-laden drinks such as soda and coffee because it is a stimulant that affects your thyroid. Alcohol and smoking will also affect the gland's functioning.

There are helpful herbs and supplements when you're on a hypothyroid weight loss diet. A diet low in iodine is usually associated with an under-active thyroid. You get the most iodine from sea salt and sea weed. There are also iodine supplements. The American Food & Drug Administration limits iodine in supplement form to 0.15mg. Some patients have had good results from taking 4mg of iodine and 600 units of vitamin E. A diet rich in zinc has also been shown to improve thyroid function. Consult with your doctor before buying or taking any supplements, as each case is different.

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Low Thyroid Diet

According to the American Thyroid Association, hypothyroidism occurs when too little of the thyroid hormone is produced. Symptoms of this condition include, low energy levels, depression, feeling cold, dry skin, muscle cramping and weight gain. Additionally, many women have a very heavy menstrual cycle. Also, many patients have swelling in the front of the neck. The amount of this hormone that is produced can be affected by diet, like deficiencies in iodine. Here are a few tips for starting a low thyroid diet.

According to the American Thyroid Association, iodine is a component required for producing the thyroid hormone. Since the human body doesn't create iodine on its own, you must eat foods (or, take supplements) that are high in this substance. Talk with your doctor about low iodine levels causing your thyroid issues. If this is an issue, you'll need to boost Iodine consumption based on the United States Recommendations, which is 150 mg per day for men and women. A large source of this supplement is iodized salt; with a single teaspoon contain 400 mg of iodine. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need 220-290 mg of Iodine each day, but talk with your doctor before taking any supplement.

This includes carrots, green leafy vegetables and yellow vegetables. These foods contain beta-carotene and vitamin A, which is a powerful antioxidant and is helpful for metabolic function. Also, make sure to eat the majority of your foods fresh, and cook very lightly to preserve vitamins.

These supplements are essential in the production of the thyroid hormones. Foods that are rich in zinc and copper include: tuna, dried beans, spinach, nuts, legumes and raisins.

Red and black radishes contain the ingredient Raphanin, which is involved in balancing the peptide hormone, which is important to proper function of the thyroid. If you aren't a big fan of radishes, try juicing a few with carrots, celery, apples and oranges -- you'll hardly taste the radish, but enjoy the health benefits.

When controlling your thyroid, make sure to avoid consuming excess amounts of sugar, which affect the adrenal glands. Also, ask your doctor about consuming milk. For some people with a low thyroid issue, the casein in milk may affect the endocrine system. Also, avoid eating foods that are high in fat, and foods that are high in iron, which also affects the adrenal glands.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

The Best Way to Lose Weight With Hypothyroidism

Having an underactive thyroid--hypothyroidism--can make it difficult for you to lose weight, even when you limit your daily calories. However, you can still achieve your weight-loss goals while meeting your body's nutritional needs.

If you have and underactive thyroid and diet to excess--cutting out too many calories or nutrients--you may find that you won't lose the weight you want. You either will stay at your current weight or you will gain additional weight. This happens because your hypothyroidism has already slowed your metabolism. When you begin a diet and decrease your caloric intake, your body responds by slowing its metabolism further, thus defeating your good intentions.

You can still reduce your caloric intake and lose weight, but you have to reduce your calories by a smaller amount and lose weight more slowly. Consider breaking your meals into six smaller meals throughout the day instead of the three larger meals. Begin by making sure your daily intake of protein is no more than 40 percent of your total calories, your fat intake is no higher than 25 percent and your consumption of low-glycemic carbohydrates is 35 percent. Incorporate fresh vegetables into your daily food intake, but avoid broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, soy, millet, pine nuts and peanuts. These foods are "goitrogenic," meaning they can interfere with your body's ability to absorb iodine, which the thyroid uses in regulating metabolism. Vegetables may lose this effect if they have been cooked, so if you cook them before eating them, you can have limited amounts to provide nutrients your body needs.

If your body's iodine levels are low, you can take a nutritional supplement that contains iodine. Discuss the possibility of taking this supplement with your doctor. If your doctor has already prescribed a thyroid hormone replacement, check to make sure an iodine supplement won't counteract the hormone's effects.

Your body normally stores 20 to 30 milligrams of iodine, mostly in your thyroid gland, but also in your stomach, salivary glands and in your blood. If your iodine stores are low, your body will not be able to make enough thyroid hormone. Iodine-rich food can help boost your levels. These include foods grown in soil rich in iodine, yogurt, cow's milk, seafood and seaweed (gamet, balbalugang, lato, nori and kelp). Incorporate these foods into your diet to help your thyroid function return to normal.

Monday, September 2, 2013

How to Gain Weight in the Breasts and Butt

In the world of fashion, the typical model has few or no curves, and many women strive to attain this appearance. But if you're trying to go the opposite direction and develop some curves by putting on weight in the breasts and butt, you might find that doing so can be surprisingly challenging.

Instructions

Understand your body. If you are a pre-adolescent girl trying to add weight to these regions, the best thing to do is wait a few years before attempting to sculpt yourself. During the teenage years, your body changes steadily, and trying to regulate those changes is often futile.

Know the risks. Once you start pushing your body in one direction, the results can be hard to control unless you have exceptional metabolic circumstances. Gaining weight presents health risks, so you should consult your doctor before you attempt it.

Gain weight healthfully. Use a workout regimen that focuses on exercises geared toward the breasts and hips. You will not actually be creating larger breasts, but instead building muscle underneath them to give that appearance. Build your chest muscles by increasing the weight load on bench presses. Build your butt muscles by increasing the weight load on leg extensions.

Eat more and let your body store the extra weight. By gaining a few pounds, women tend to naturally increase the size of their butt and bust.

Home Remedy for Water Weight Gain

Edema, the accumulation of excess fluid in the body, results in water weight gain. Edema symptoms include swollen ankles, feet, knees and legs. Other symptoms include general bloating and a swollen face. Causes of water weight gain include alcohol, pregnancy, salty foods, sedentary lifestyle and underlying health conditions. An effective home remedy for water weight gain combines an increased fluid intake, dietary changes, exercise and massage.

An effective home remedy for water weight gain begins with an increase in daily water intake. Drinking water increases kidney functions and signals the body to let go of water it is retaining. The human body often retains water as self-preservation when too much salt is present in the body. Urine also contains salt, and this naturally occurring salt triggers water retention. Increase water intake to dilute the salts and flush them out of the bladder. Refrain from eating salty foods and adding extra salt to food. A popular home remedy for water weight gain is to add 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar to water twice a day. Add honey to taste to make the apple cider vinegar water more palatable.

Exercise is a home remedy for water weight gain. The human body expels water and diluted salts through respiration. Sweating aids in the relief from water retention and the resulting water weight. Sweat carries excess water and salts out of the body through the skin. If required to sit for long periods, get up and move around as often as possible. Movement increases blood circulation. Blood circulation carries waste to the excretory system. Prop legs up above heart level while reclining to force fluids that have pooled in the legs towards the torso. The circulatory system transports the excess fluids to the kidneys and bladder for elimination.

Massage limbs affected by edema toward the heart to force the excess fluid into the circulatory system. Massage affected limbs with warm mustard oil. If no mustard oil is available, soak 2 tsp. of mustard seeds in hot water until the water cools to a comfortable temperature. Use the mustard seed water to massage swollen areas, or soak cloths in the water and lay them over swollen areas. Soak cloths in apple cider vinegar and place the cloths over swollen areas as another home remedy for eliminating water weight gain. Wear compression stockings to prevent fluids from pooling in the legs and to help fight fluid retention.

How to Lose Weight When You Have Hypothyroidism

If you have thyroid disease, particularly hypothyroidism, you may find it more difficult to lose weight and feel energetic. You may also find that your weight tends to fluctuate no matter what you do. Sometimes you just start putting on weight when you haven't been overindulgent in your diet. However, being hypo thyroid does not mean you are doomed to being pudgy and out of shape. You just have to know what your body needs to help your thyroid function better.

Instructions

Make sure you are taking the correct amount of thyroid medication as prescribed by your doctor. If you find yourself feeling more sluggish and gaining weight, go get your thyroid levels checked to see if you need a stronger prescription. Make sure you are taking your medication regularly.

Exercise on a regular basis. In particularly, you should try to engage in activities like yoga as the inverted positions, like downward dog, encourage blood flow to your neck area. Your thyroid is located in the neck area, so bring the blood flow there will help stimulate your thyroid to function better while you get in shape at the same time. This is a double workout as you work out your body and your thyroid!
Aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise 3-4 times a week, but 30 minutes a day would be ideal. Aside from doing some yoga, you can go walking, jogging, swimming or whatever feels comfortable for you and gets your heart rate elevated. If your lethargy keeps you from getting the motivation needed to exercise, then sign up for a fitness class. You will feel more accountable and motivated to show up and will have the support of an instructor telling you what to do rather than trying to force yourself to decide what to do.

Drink green tea. People with hypothyroidism tend to have slower metabolisms. Green tea helps to increase your metabolism therefore helping you to loose weight. Drinking Green tea will also increase your energy level, giving you the energy to exercise since hypothyroidism can make you feel so lethargic.

Supplement with Iodine. Take a Kelp supplement or buy some liquid iodine and make an iodine patch on your skin about the size of a quarter. Iodine helps improve thyroid function.

See my article How to Treat Hypothyroidism Naturally for more ways to naturally improve your thyroid function. (see resources).

Signs & Symptoms of Hypothyroidism: Salt Craving

While a craving for salt can be indicative of a variety of physical disorders, it is an especially recurrent symptom among those suffering from hypothyroidism, also known as an under-active or low thyroid.

The Mayo Clinic defines hypothyroidism as a condition that disrupts the bodys chemical equilibrium when the thyroid fails to maintain necessary hormones.

Hypothyroidism negatively affects the bodys ability to absorb both sodium and magnesium, according to Dr. Ray Peat, a contributor to Thyroid Info online. A craving for salt is the bodys cue that it wants more. When we respond, the consumption of additional sodium increases the production of the hormone aldosterone.

Aldosterone helps to regulate sodium levels in the body and it curtails the loss of magnesium. Magnesium makes the bodys cells more receptive to hormones produced by the thyroid.

When low levels of aldosterone cue the kidneys to excrete salt, this causes an increase in urination, excessive perspiring and thirst. When the kidneys fail to retain necessary levels of sodium, low blood pressure results, causing dizziness and lightheadedness. The body will struggle to maintain levels of sodium and when it is unable to do so, significant fatigue may occur.

Adding salt to the diet is recommended. Sea salt has proved especially beneficial because it contains trace minerals that ordinary table salt does not.

Pages

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Definition

Causes

Symptoms

Prevention/Solution

Treatment

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Chocolate-Covered Donuts and Potato Chips

Soda

Regular Pork Bacon

White Flour Products

Whole Milk

Sauces, Regular Salad Dressing, and Margarine

Beer

Protein

Iodine

Selenium

Other Nutrients

Foods to Avoid

Friday, September 27, 2013

Mary Shomon's "Thyroid Diet"

The Hypothyroidism Diet Myth

How Cymbalta Works

Cymbalta and Weight Gain

Defeating Weight Gain

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Identification

Considerations

Effects

Prevention/Solution

Diet

Instructions

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Hormones

Belly Fat

Androgens

Balance is Upset

Recommendations

Age and Metabolism

Monday, September 23, 2013

Thyroid Function

Low to Moderate Carbohydrate Diet

Low Calorie Diet

What Time to Eat

Hydration

Weight Gain Possible

Stretching the Stomach

Diabetes

High Blood Pressure

Heart Disease

Instructions

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Menopause

Cushing Syndrome

Drugs and Medications

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Instructions

Digestive Problems

Fatigue

Mood Changes

Pain

Skin Changes

Weight Gain

Friday, September 20, 2013

Normal Rates of Growth

The Full Examination

Eating Habits

Suggestions

Doctors' Advice

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Hypothyroidism

Vegetables and Fruits

Soy Is Harmful

Soy Is Not Harmful

Oils

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Instructions

Beverages