Showing posts with label Health / Diet / Food. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health / Diet / Food. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

13 Foods That Kill










Ask Glen!







Q. Glen, Are there any Foods that I should be aware of that are unhealthy?



A.Yes Beware ! Here are 13 Foods that Kill...

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 76 million Americans will suffer from food-borne illnesses, and at least 5,000 will die this year. Children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at the greatest risk.



Simple tips for safer eating

1. Lettuce: Because it is grown so close to the ground, it can come into contact with manure or irrigation runoff. When you buy lettuce, you should first discard the outer leaves, then separate the inner leaves and thoroughly wash them. All raw fruits and vegetables can harbor disease-causing bacteria. Thoroughly wash any raw produce under cold running water before eating it. If appropriate, use a small scrub brush to remove any visible dirt. This is true for even organic fruits and vegetables.

2. Water: Contaminated water can be a major source of trouble, especially for those drinking from private wells or streams. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends private-water supplies be tested at least once a year for nitrates, total dissolved solids and coliform bacteria, the presence of which (although generally harmless) may indicate other contamination. You may need to test more frequently and for more potential contaminants if a problem is suspected. In some places, people who get their water from a public utility receive a yearly consumer confidence report that analyzes the water. Read it.

3. Raw sprouts: Alfalfa sprouts, clover sprouts and radish sprouts have all been associated with salmonella and E. coli. Cook sprouts thoroughly to kill off the bacteria.

4. Unpasteurized juices, milks or cheeses: Make sure you always purchase the pasteurized versions of your favorite products. Pasteurization kills bacteria. When you go to a juice bar, make sure the juices are pasteurized. Unpasteurized products have been linked to salmonella, E. coli and Listeria -- all can lead to death.

5. Moldy peanuts: Aflatoxins are by-products of common, naturally occurring mold growth on certain agricultural products such as peanuts, wheat, cereals and corn. Alfatoxins have been found to cause liver cancer in animal species. Check carefully for any sign of discoloration or mold.

6. Raw or undercooked shellfish: Shellfish, such as clams and oysters, must be cooked thoroughly. Consuming raw or undercooked animal protein can increase the potential for illness.

7. Swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tilefish: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and EPA advise young children, women who are planning to become pregnant, and pregnant or nursing women not to eat these fish. Swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tilefish have much higher levels of methyl mercury than other commonly consumed fish. Mercury is most harmful to the developing brains of unborn children and young children, affecting cognitive, motor and sensory functions.

8. Caesar salad: Many restaurant or homemade recipes call for raw eggs in Caesar salad. Always ask if the salad dressing contains raw eggs.

9. Wild mushrooms: Portabello and shiitake lovers have no reason to worry. Just don't go scavenging in your backyard. Only eat mushrooms you've purchased in the grocery store. A few common species of mushrooms are poisonous... deadly poisonous.

10. Raw homemade cookie dough. We're not talking about the prepackaged kind that many of us prefer to nibble on straight from the tube or tub. We're talking about homemade batter that's made with eggs. Raw eggs can be contaminated with salmonella, a food-borne illness that can prove fatal if untreated.

11. Rare hamburger. Hamburger and other ground meat should be cooked to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent E. coli. Always use a food thermometer to ensure you've cooked the beef to a safe temperature.

12. Turkey and stuffing. Cooking stuffing in a turkey or chicken is a major no-no. The bird cooks both from the outside and the inside. When you stuff the bird, it reduces the heat penetration. Your best bet is to cook the turkey and stuffing separately. If you choose to cook them together, make sure the temperature reaches at least 180 degrees Fahrenheit in the innermost part of the thigh while the center of the stuffing inside the turkey reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Bacteria can survive in stuffing that hasn't reached that temperature.

13. Shakes and eggs. A popular favorite these days is protein shakes. Unfortunately, they can do more harm than good when raw eggs are added to the mix. Once again, you're putting yourself at risk for salmonella when you consume raw eggs. Also, beware of sunny side up or runny eggs. The rule of thumb is to cook the egg until both the yolk and the white are firm.

Bottom Line! When eating healthy Know that you are eating healthy!!!!!!


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !


My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health

Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Monday, January 24, 2011

Vitamins: What You Need to Know






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Q. Glen, Should I take Vitamins and what are they?

A.If you are making a conscious attempt to live a healthy lifestyle, you are bound to come across conflicting information about the virtues of vitamins. Now that most of us have reached the age where our vitamin pills no longer resemble cartoon characters, it is difficult to know where to turn for reliable information.

Vitamins are organic substances, which are essential to the proper growth and performance of the human body. You receive many of the most important vitamins and nutrients by following a healthy eating plan. About 20 years ago, few doctors in the U.S. recommended taking vitamin pills or nutritional supplements.
That thinking has changed.

Today, even the American Medical Association recommends everyone take daily vitamins for health and wellness. Health reports on nutrients and supplements frequently provide heavy doses of conflicting information. Just reading these stories is enough to make your head spin. And if you think that is confusing, just wait until you stop into your local health food store or vitamin emporium. You will be overwhelmed by rows and rows of products, each one promising to be the Holy Grail of vitamins!

To help you know your vitamin A from a hole in your diet, here is a little basic information about some of the most common vitamins and nutrients you may want to supplement, along with some you can probably do without (at least in supplement form). A good general rule: Children and adults will most likely benefit from taking a daily multivitamin. Nothing replaces eating healthy foods, but taking a multivitamin provides added insurance that you're getting the necessary vitamins and micronutrients.

Now that we've established the taking of vitamins and supplements may be beneficial for your individual needs I need to issue this warning: Be careful not to take them in excess!
“Vitamins taken in excess work like drugs,” nutritionist Susan Burke. “Also, unless you have a vitamin deficiency it is important to realize that taking vitamin supplements is not going to cure anything."
It is very important to consult your personal physician before taking vitamins or supplements.

What You May Need
There are vitamins and minerals you may want to supplement to meet your individual needs. Most of these vitamins fall under the category of water-soluble vitamins. This group of vitamins includes the B vitamins and vitamin C. As the name implies, this group of vitamins dissolves in water. They are carried through the body in your bloodstream. With the exception of Vitamin B12, the body does not store water-soluble vitamins. After you use what you need, your kidneys flush out excess water-soluble vitamins in your urine. Water-soluble vitamins you may want to supplement include.

Folate (folic acid): Folate supplements are generally recommended for all women of child-bearing age because it helps prevent birth defects. Extra folate may be helpful for other types of people though, because there is increasing evidence that it can lower your risk for heart disease and colon cancer. Folate deficiency may also lead to anemia

Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential for healthy nerves. Vitamin B12 deficiencies can cause anemia and memory loss, as well as increase your risk for heart disease and strokes. Many people may want to take B12 supplements, especially vegetarians and elderly people.

Vitamin C: As most people already know, vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, and it helps bolster your immune system. While extremely high doses of vitamin C can cause diarrhea or kidney stones, many people could stand to take vitamin C supplements, especially smokers. Yet another reason smoking is unhealthy (as if you needed more) is that it depletes the body’s natural supply of vitamin C.
Though not technically vitamins, here are some minerals, amino acids and other substances you might consider taking in supplement form:

Omega-3 fatty acids: Though your best bet is to include plenty of fish in your diet, many people also take fish oil supplements. Among other benefits, these supplements can help prevent heart disease.

Calcium: This mineral is useful for strengthening your bones and teeth, and getting adequate amounts of calcium in your diet will help prevent osteoporosis. While your best bet is to get calcium from milk and dairy products, it can be difficult to get enough calcium from your diet alone. Doctors often recommend taking calcium supplements, though there has been some disagreement in the medical community about how much calcium your body needs.

Iron: This mineral is important to the function of your red blood cells. Iron deficiencies are a very common problem, especially for women. However, getting too much iron is thought to increase the risk of heart disease in men, so please use caution.

Zinc: This mineral is essential for tissue growth and healing. Doctors may recommend zinc supplements, especially to elderly people.

What You May Want to Avoid
According to Burke, people should not overload on fat-soluble vitamins. This group of vitamins includes: vitamins A, D, E and K. As the name implies, fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in fat and are carried through the body by fat molecules. Since these vitamins are often stored in body fat, taking supplements of fat-soluble vitamins is risky, unless prescribed by your doctor.

Vitamin A (also called Retinol): Vitamin A is important for good vision. It also bolsters your immune system, has an impact on reproduction and impacts numerous other bodily functions. Vitamin A is present in many foods, including fortified milk, eggs, cheese, liver and leafy green vegetables. High doses of vitamin A can be very toxic though. Excess vitamin A can cause bone fractures, hair loss, nausea, blurred vision and other problems
.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps increase your body's absorption of phosphorous and calcium. Your body receives Vitamin D through fortified milk, cheese, fatty fish and exposure to sunlight.
It should be noted that you do need increasing amounts of Vitamin D as you get older. People living in the upper regions of the Northern Hemisphere are also susceptible to Vitamin D deficiencies due to lack of sunlight. Many doctors do recommend vitamin D supplements to patients over 50, but overloading on vitamin D can be toxic.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and there is scientific evidence to support the fact that it helps reduce your risk for cancer and heart disease. Your best bet is to get vitamin E from green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, vegetable oils, wheat germ and whole-grain foods.

Vitamin K: Vitamin K produces many proteins that allow your blood to clot. You should get enough vitamin K by eating green leafy vegetables, dairy products, liver and cabbage. Excess vitamin K can interfere with anti-clotting medications.
Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.Please consult your physician !


Wishing You Great Health!

Glen Edward Mitchell
Any questions? Ask Glen

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Go Organic: The Truth




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Q. Glen, Is Organic foods really the Best for you?



A. Health-conscious shoppers have the right idea. Buying organic is better for you and the earth. Organic products are free from pesticides, herbicides and other potentially harmful substances that can damage your health. More and more people are opting for organic, so it's easier to find. Once-pricey organics are becoming affordable for everyone due to high demand. Eating organic is one opportunity to choose a path to optimum health, lowering heart disease and cancer risk.

Bottom Line! Eat Organic.....Nuff Said ( whenever possible )


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !


My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health

Any questions?
Ask Glen!

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

7 Best Ab-Flattening Foods




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Q. Glen, I doing 1000 crunches! Nothing is happening . Am I eating right?



A. If you’ve been doing crunches for months and still aren’t seeing results, the problem might not be your exercise plan. According to experts, there are certain foods that can make bellies appear bloated and flabby. Fortunately, there are also several superfoods that can give virtually any stomach a leaner, more toned look. To get started, try these seven belly-flattening treats.

1. Healthy fats. Certain types of fat, such as omega-6s and trans fats (most often found in baked goods and corn oils), can declare war on your waistline. But monounsaturated fats (found in olive oil, fish, and flaxseed), can have ab-flattening effects. According to a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, a diet rich in monounsaturated fats helps people lose small amounts of body fat without reducing their caloric intake.

2. Oranges. Instead of drinking a glass of orange juice with your breakfast in the morning, try eating a whole orange instead. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), whole fruit makes people feel fuller than juice does. In addition, a medium orange contains much more fiber than its liquid equivalent, and in several studies, fiber has been shown to reduce belly fat.

3. Popcorn.
Whether they’re labeled light, fat-free, or regular, most popcorn varieties are healthful. But for flatter abs, it’s especially important that your popcorn isn’t loaded up with extra butter and salt, either of which could lead to weight gain and bloating. For best results, opt for whole-grain brands with no trans fats.

4. Turkey.
A lean cut of turkey offers the protein your body craves without the additional calories that come with many processed foods. Just be sure to order low-sodium turkey from the deli counter, and avoid purchasing the packaged kind, which can be loaded with belly-bulging preservatives.

5. Celery With Peanut Butter.
This children’s favorite is often called “ants on a log” when raisins are added, but it can be a great snack for adults, too. Peanut butter in small quantities provides good sugars and quick proteins and can ease your food cravings. The celery is a primarily water-based vegetable, so you can eat as much as you want without feeling guilty.

6. Milk.
As it turns out, milk really does do a body good. In fact, studies have shown that drinking three glasses of low-fat or fat-free milk every day can help maintain a healthy weight. If you aren’t big on dairy products or don’t like the taste of plain milk, try mixing milk into a protein shake or sorbet, or look into soy options. Other dairy products may also help; remember to eat in moderation low-fat or skim versions of cheeses and yogurts.

7. Wine.
A growing body of research suggests that drinking a glass of wine with dinner may help you maintain a smaller waistline. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, one 4-ounce glass of red or white wine seems to be the optimal amount. However, moderation is key: Drinking any more alcohol than that could put you at risk for weight gain.

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health


Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Dieting By The Book: What You Need





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Q.Glen, I get bored with my "diet" food ! Any suggestions?

A. Experiment in the kitchen. Variety is the spice life -- it's also a great strategy for sticking to your meal plan. Trying different recipes will keep your weight-loss efforts from getting boring. Stop by a used book store and pick up a couple of healthy cookbooks. Surf the web for meals that appeal to your tastes. Peruse magazines for new ideas. There's a wealth of resources out there loaded with healthy variations of traditional favorites or meals you've never even tried.

Glen's Bottom Line: Variety is the spice life! So get Spicy....

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.

Please consult your physician !

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health

Any Questions?Ask Glen!

Friday, August 14, 2009

Be Psylly to Save Bathroom Time










Ask Glen!





Q. Glen, I am spending to much time in the bathroom!

A. If your bathroom has become the place where you get your reading done, it's time for a spoonful of psyllium.

Psyllium -- pronounced "silly-um" -- is a fiber supplement made from a Mediterranean plantain. A daily dose helps keep things moving right along.

Drink Up
Psyllium, found in products like Metamucil, bulks up stool and improves digestive flow by sucking water into the bowel. Make sure to take a rounded teaspoon with lots of water, or you'll feel as if you just ate concrete. Or do what YOU Docs Mehmet Oz, MD, and Michael Roizen, MD, do: Add psyllium to a breakfast drink.

More on When It's Slow
If you're bothered by the occasional "backup" (as most of us are), try these other tips for getting things going:




  • Don't skip meals. Eating moves waste through your gastrointestinal tract.


  • Make friends with fiber.


  • Put your best foot forward.


  • Quench it. Stay hydrated with noncaffeinated, nonalcoholic beverages.

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health




Any questions?



Ask Glen!

Friday, July 31, 2009

The 5 Most Dangerous Food Additives





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Q.Glen, Are the low fat food additive good for you?


A. If you really are what you eat, your health could be paying a serious price. What did you have for lunch today? If you ate a turkey sandwich and low-fat potato chips, you may have consumed a few unexpected ingredients, too. Perhaps some potassium bromate in your bread or sodium nitrite in your turkey. And those chips, were they made with olestra?

The foods currently lining U.S. supermarket shelves contain hundreds of additives designed to enhance color, texture, flavor, and shelf life. And the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) receives about 100 new additive approval requests each year. While these substances have been deemed safe by the FDA, some still question their short- and long-term health effects.

Ready to find out what you're really eating? Start by taking a closer look at the food label and steering clear of these potentially dangerous additives:

1.

Potassium Bromate

This dough conditioner and bleaching agent, which was once widely used in bread baking, is considered a category 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans) carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In 1993, the World Health Organization recommended its removal from all foods, and though it has been banned in many countries, it's still permitted in the United States and Japan. Potassium bromate is still used in Sunbeam and Wonder bread, TastyKake products, and buns from fast-food chains Burger King, Arby's, and Wendy's, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest.

2.

Sodium Nitrite

Nearly all processed meats are made with sodium nitrite: breakfast sausage, hot dogs, bacon, lunch meat, and even meats in canned soup products. Yet this ingredient may be a precursor to highly carcinogenic nitrosaminespotent cancer-causing chemicals that may accelerate the formation and growth of cancer cells throughout the body. In a University of Hawaii study, participants who consumed the most processed meats showed a 67 percent increased risk of pancreatic cancer over those who consumed little or no meat products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) actually tried to ban sodium nitrite in the 1970s, but was preempted by the meat processing industry, which relies on the ingredient to make foods look more appealing. Some meats are now processed without using sodium nitrite, and the USDA has set limits on the quantities in which it can be used.

3.

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)

This preservative, used to prevent fats from going bad, can be found in butter, meats, chewing gum, dehydrated potatoes, and beer. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organization, it may act as a precursor to cancer. In addition, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) describes BHA as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

4.

Olestra

A fat substitute used in crackers and potato chips, Olestra is marketed under the brand name Olean. This synthetic fat is not absorbed by the body and can contribute to abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Furthermore, Olestra may inhibit the body's ability to absorb beneficial fat-soluble nutrients, including lycopene, lutein, and beta-carotene. In two Proctor & Gamble studies, eight grams of Olestra a day (equivalent to a daily ingestion of 16 potato chips containing Olestra) caused dramatic depletion of important carotenoids and fat-soluble vitamins in just two weeks.

5.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG)

Used as a flavor enhancer in many packaged foods, including soups, salad dressings, sausages, hot dogs, canned tuna, and potato chips, MSG may pose serious health risks. The FDA has identified a condition dubbed MSG Symptom Complex, which can cause headaches, numbness, and drowsiness. People with severe, poorly controlled asthma may be among those prone to the condition and may suffer temporary worsening of asthmatic symptoms after consuming MSG.



Bottom Line Subtract the Additives!

So, how do you remove, or at least minimize, these potentially dangerous ingredients from your diet? Start by sticking with fresh, whole foods whenever you can, and get in the habit of always reading the label so you know exactly what you're putting in your body and what you're leaving out.

How Many Time Do I have To Tell You?



Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !



My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health

Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

The Worst Base Ball Game Foods





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Q.Glen , I love Baseball! Any Healthy Eating There?

A. No, But no one goes to a baseball game to eat healthfully any way, but some stadium foods are more diet-deadly than others


There was a time when the national pastime was synonymous with peanuts and cracker jacks. Now, the ballpark menu has expanded-to include one fattening item after another. Stadiums often serve foods made famous by their hometowns (such as cheesesteaks in Philly, crabcakes in Baltimore, or pierogies in Pittsburgh), but many of them should come with an exercise plan on the side. Here, the 10 most fattening ballpark foods in the country.

1. Chili cheese dog. To begin with, most hot dogs contain several grams of saturated fat (the kind of fat that causes high cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association). Add to it the greasy, gooey cheese and loads of spicy chili (and if it's Cincinnati's famous Skyline chili, served at the Great American Ball Park, there may be some chocolate added). The final caloric score of these treats? Somewhere in the ballpark of 400 calories.

2. Pretzel dog. Maybe they're going to for a triple play here: high in fat, high in sodium, and high in carbs. It's not like the hot dog is a health food to begin with, but wrapping a 200-plus-calorie pretzel around it is just adding insult to injury. If a pretzel dog isn't your thing, but you still want all the fatty goodness of the pretzel and sausage, you can order the bratzel (a bratwurst wrapped in a pretzel) the next time you're at a St. Louis Cardinals home game. But beware: You'll be consuming a quarter of your daily calorie intake.

3. Beer. It's technically not a food, but a cold brew is a ubiquitous ballpark staple nonetheless. In fact, the vendors are everywhere, shouting, "Get your beer, here," into the stands. Whether you're having a cold one at Miller Park or Coors Field or any of the other fields not named after beers, each eight-ounce glass weighs in at approximately 100 calories. Light beers could save you about 25 to 30 calories a glass, but they'll still cost an arm and a leg.

4. Garlic fries. These specialty French fries are such a hit, they can be found in multiple stadiums, particularly on the West Coast, including Bank One Ballpark (home of the Arizona Diamondbacks), PETCO Park (home of the San Diego Padres), and AT&T Park (home of the San Francisco Giants). With these fries, you'll be batting 500-calories, that is.

5. Italian sausages. It doesn't matter if you top your sandwich with the hottest peppers or the sweet kind, Italian sausages are a strikeout, for sure. Although the caloric count and fat grams vary widely depending on where you're ordering, they're never low, sometimes swinging as high as 700 calories and more than 40 grams of fat.

6. Anything smothered in barbecue sauce. Pick your poison: the barbecue pork ribs in Atlanta, the barbecue beef sandwich while watching the Royals play at home, or some of Manny's barbecue pit beef in Pittsburgh's PNC Park. To be fair, it's not the sauce that will wreak havoc on your waistline; it's everything underneath it.

7. Cuban sandwich. You can get a Cuban while rooting for the Tampa Bay Rays, the Boston Red Sox, or the Cleveland Indians. Regardless of who they're playing, one pre-game prediction is sure to be true: At about 700 calories a sandwich, this ballpark food will ruin your diet.

8. Cheesesteak. It's no surprise that they serve this famous Philadelphia staple at Citizen's Bank Park where the Phillies play. While Geno's Steaks and Pat's King of Steaks continue to battle across the street from each other for dominance in the Philly cheesesteak market, whether you grab one of those or the kind at the park, one thing is clear: You're going to need to loosen your belt after you finish eating it.

9. Pizza. Two slices of Little Caesar's pepperoni pizza stack up to 780 calories. And if that's not enough to convince you to steer clear, consider this the next time you're at a Detroit Tigers home game: Mike Ilitch owns both the team and the pizza franchise, which has made him enough money to earn a spot on the Forbes Richest Americans list. Maybe you should save your money.

10. Chocolate-covered cheesecake. As if the other foods haven't already done enough harm, the final inning brings dessert. And at the Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati, that means chocolate-covered cheesecake, which is sure to issue to the final blow to your waistline.




Bottom Line! Eat Before you go!




Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !



My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health


Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Biggest Diet Scams




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Q.Glen, I am trying to loss weight! Should I try any of the Over the counter weight loss products?


A Buyer beware: These three weight-loss products promise big results but don't live up to their hefty claims.

1. Diet patches. The idea that you could stick a patch on your skin and peel away the pounds may sound appealing. But to date, there's no evidence to prove that these products actually work. In fact, in 2004 marketers of the seaweed-based "Peel Away the Pounds" patch—which claimed it could shed three to five pounds a week in its infomercials—agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that they made false and unsubstantiated weight-loss claims.

2. Slim suits. These thick, layered "body wraps" promise to increase your body temperature and melt the pounds away. But in reality, they’re just cleverly marketed modern-day girdles that aren't all they're cracked up to be. According to experts, although you could lose a few ounces of water weight through perspiration while wearing one, you'd gain it right back after your next drink.

3. Diet pills. These tablets and capsules might claim they can create bathing-suit bodies in weeks or even days. Recently, however, marketers of four weight-loss pills—Xenadrine EFX, One-A-Day Weight Smart, CortiSlim, and TrimSpa—were fined $25 million by the FTC for making false claims. As it stands now, Alli (active ingredient: orlistat) is the only product with enough favorable research to have earned the FDA's approval.

These products sound too good to be true—and as it turns out, they are.

4. Weight-loss creams. These dream creams may sound like miracle solutions, but it's unlikely that you'll lose anything—except your wallet—by using them. For this reason, the FDA issued warning letters in 2004 to companies selling creams that claimed they could break down unwanted fat, stimulate metabolism, or help lose inches and pounds.

5. Herbal teas. Tea may offer a host of health benefits, but according to experts, weight loss isn't one of them. One of the most fraudulent of these products is Wu-Yi Source's Weight-Loss Tea—a product that the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has received complaints about in 19 states. When consumers seek their "iron-clad" refund, they get "vague answers and stall tactics so that the company doesn't have to honor its 60-day refund policy," the BBB reports.

6. Cortisol-reducers. In recent years, a number of companies have introduced supplements that promise to reduce cortisol and, in turn, belly fat. But it's never been proven that any of these products actually work. Maybe that's why in 2007, the FTC nailed the makers of both Cortistress and CortiSlim with $12 million in fines for making false and unsubstantiated claims.


Bottom Line! Eat Fresh Whole Foods Watch Total Calories and Burn more Calories then you Consume!


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !



My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health

Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

The healthiest rate to lose weight





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Q. Glen, I am not losing weight fast enough! what should I do?


A. Focus on losing one to two pounds per week. Slow and steady wins the race. Studies show that people who lose at a slower pace are more likely to keep off the weight. The National Institute of Health recommends dropping one to two pounds a week for safe, effective weight loss. Two pounds a week may not sound like much, but it adds up fast. Over a one-year period, that's 52 pounds.


Glen's Bottom Line: Take your time!


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !


My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health


Any questions ?

Ask Glen!

Friday, May 15, 2009

10 Ways to Kick Sugar





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Q. Glen, What's the very first thing that I should do to kick or cut back on sugar or refined carbs?


A.That is one of the very first questions that most people have when they want to stomp out their pesky sugar habit.

After conquering my own horrible habit in 1998, inspiring thousands of "sugar sufferers" as well as studying and receiving input from many medical and self-actualization experts, I've found that the most important first step is to see yourself free, feel your sugar-free success and happily revel in it.

Here are 10 easy, effective tips and tactics to help you to begin to break free.

1. First off, congratulate yourself that you've even asked this question. Yes, really pat yourself on the back. You see, many sugar addicts, I've found, beat up on themselves for having eaten so many high-calorie, nutrient-poor sweets over the years. Instead, they should be excited, much like a runner who made it to the starting gate. So, begin to lavish some praise and much-needed applause on yourself, whether it's in a letter or poem to yourself or in a heart-to-heart conversation with a really good friend or loved one, who will support you in your endeavor.

2. Begin your day -- and go through your day -- with the firm belief in your heart that you can finally lick this annoying, if not horrifying, unhealthy sugar habit. Know without a doubt in the depth of your being that you will accomplish this.

3. Create a sugar-free affirmation or mantra that rings true for you. You could go for something simple like: "I am free of this sugar habit." Perhaps you'd like to try: "I succeeded! I am free of sugar cravings." Or you might like to try: "I only eat healthy, nourishing foods." And if you want to peel off some pounds, you may wish to say something like: "I, [your name], choose only nourishing foods that will help me reach my ideal weight."

4. State your sugar-free mantra out loud at least 20 times in the morning, 20 times midday and 20 times in the evening. Repeat them either inwardly (if people are around) or out loud (if you're alone) whenever sweets or simple carbs "call out" to you.

5. Write your mantra at least 20 times a day in a notebook. As you take pen to paper, feel yourself actually licking this pesky habit.

6. Play and replay "a movie in your mind" where you're the heroine or hero who is easily, gracefully and happily turning away from sugar and toward healthier foods or activities. You can find literature galore that attests to the power and effectiveness of visualization.

7. Now select one, two or even three people who have wildly succeeded at something and study their amazing stories. Anytime you're discouraged, just think how they overcame tremendous odds, and if they did it, so can you.

8. Read inspirational books and passages daily. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, You Can if You Think You Can by Norman Vincent Peale and The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra were among the many books that helped me become sugar-free years ago. I still like to read them for inspiration about other matters. If the Bible is special to you, then select choice sections to study often, too.

9. Find and hang out with positive, like-minded people who also share this optimistic, glass-is-almost-full point of view.

10. Make sure to acknowledge and maybe even celebrate each accomplishment, such as making it through a day without sweets or eating less of them. Naturally, I mean that you should do something special that's sugar-free. You decide what works for you. It could be as simple as breathing deeply, filling up with pride and saying, "Congratulations, [state your name], I made it through the day." But applaud yourself each step of the way because those steps can add up to a week or more without sweets, which will result in less fat, more energy and feeling more focused. So happily revel in your small successes now.

And bear in mind: I have confidence in you. You can do it! I know it!


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health


Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Friday, April 17, 2009

10 Reasons Why You Should Eat Breakfast





Ask Glen!



Q.Glen, Why Should I Eat Breakfast ?



A. Increased energy levels. Decreased disease risk. Bigger memory capability. Smaller waistline. When it comes to that first morning meal, the reasons to fuel your body are virtually endless. So, the next time you’re about to dash out the door on an empty stomach, remember these 10 reasons why breakfast really is the most important meal of the day:

• High Energy. A healthy breakfast provides you with enough nutrients to energize your body for hours.

• Smart Eating. Studies have shown that people who eat breakfast consume more vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and less fat and cholesterol.

• Calorie Reduction. People who don’t eat breakfast are likely to eat more calories throughout the day than people who skip lunch, according to the Nemours Foundation’s Center for Children’s Health and Media.

• Decreased Diabetes Risk. People who eat breakfast are significantly less likely to be diabetic than those who usually don’t, according to the American Heart Association.

• Weight Control. A study by the National Weight Control Registry shows that eating breakfast actually helps keep people’s weight down.

• Full Focus. According to the American Dietetic Association, people who eat breakfast are better able to concentrate and be more productive throughout the morning.

• Making Memories. According to experts, eating breakfast improves memory and learning. In one study, college students who ate a morning meal scored 22 percent higher in a word-recall test than those who skipped breakfast.

• Urge to Exercise. Researchers believe that people who eat breakfast have higher energy levels and may engage in more physical activity than people who don’t.

• Happy Days. Skipping breakfast can make you feel tired, irritable, or sad. Even grabbing some fresh fruit or a bowl of cereal can help boost your mood.

• Stress Be Gone. The time you spend eating breakfast can be relaxing and help you to mentally prepare for the day. Eating breakfast also forces you to slow down, helping you to prioritize.


Glen's Bottom Line! Keep in mind, however, that all breakfasts are not created equal—a healthy morning meal should be balanced and not too heavy. So, skip the eggs, bacon, sausage, and biscuits, and go for whole-grain cereals with fruit or juice instead. Or opt for an egg-white omelet filled with vegetables.

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !



My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health

Any questions?

Ask Glen!

Friday, April 10, 2009

Explore the Orient the Healthy Way






Ask Glen!



Q. Glen, I love Chinese food! But all that frying...What do I do?

A. Hungry for Chinese food? Wok this way. When most people think of healthy cuisine, Chinese food isn't the first thing that comes to mind. Fantail shrimp, egg rolls, fried rice, honey garlic chicken and other staples are hardly diet-friendly foods. But that doesn't mean you have to miss out. Avoid fried favorites and meals that are cooked in rich sauces. Take the steamed route. Order steamed rice and opt for a vegetable-based dish. Steamed vegetable dumplings are also a healthy way to start off the meal.

Glen's Bottom Line: Chinese anyone?

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.Please consult your physician!

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health.

Any questions?
Ask Glen!


Fitness Builders

Glen Edward Mitchell

AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

ACSM Certified Personal Trainer

Founder - Ask Glen! Clean, Lean & Mean

678-294-5196

mailto:AskGlen@aim.com

Friday, April 3, 2009

Scrumptious snacks under 100 calories





Ask Glen!






Q. Glen, Any low calorie snacks that taste good?


A. Yes there are snacks under 100 calories. When you open up a box of crackers or cookies, it's hard to eat just one. By the time you become aware of how many you've wolfed down, half of the package is gone and you've consumed enough calories for a total meal. The good news is that Nabisco has created a sensible snacking 100 calorie packs to help you keep your portions in check. Varieties include Chips Ahoy, Oreos, Wheat Thins, Peanut Butter Cookie Crisps, Cheese Nips and more. These pre-packaged snacks come in individual sizes, making it easy to fight temptation.


Glen's Bottom Line: Count your calories stay on point!


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !


My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."


Yours in good health


Any questions ?

Ask Glen!

Monday, March 30, 2009

Super Foods




Ask Glen!






Q. Glen, What are Super Foods?


A. The best way to feel super good is to incorporate super foods into your daily diet. What makes a certain food go from good to super? They are foods that play an integral role in preventing diseases by providing our bodies with health benefits beyond those of more common foods. Try adding a few of these superfoods: blueberries, oranges, spinach, sweet potatoes, broccoli, citrus fruit, wild salmon and tomato. Incorporating a variety of these foods to your diet will help you maintain weight, fight disease and extend your lifespan.


Glen's Bottom Line: What You Should Be Eating! ( Is Super Foods)


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program. Please consult your physician !


My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health



Any questions ?
Ask Glen

Friday, March 20, 2009

The Most Important Meal of the Day




Ask Glen!


Q. Glen, Should I eat breakfast everyday?

A. Yes! Eat breakfast every morning. You've heard it's the most important meal of the day, and it is. Research indicates that women who eat cereal on a regular basis weigh nine pounds less than those who rarely eat cereal or don't eat breakfast at all. Eating breakfast provides the body with nourishment and prevents overeating throughout the rest of the day. Start the day off right by consuming a balanced, nutritious morning meal.

Glen's Bottom Line: Hey Mom! What's for Breakfast?

Ask Glen!

An Informative Guide: To Mental, Physical, Health, Exercise, Proper Nutrition for Men & Women. And living a Long and Healthy Life Style

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.Please consult your physician!

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health.

Any questions?Ask Glen!

Fitness Builders

Glen Edward Mitchell

AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

ACSM Certified Personal Trainer

Founder:

Ask Glen! Fitness Builders, Clean, Lean & Mean & G350, G180, G90

678-294-5196

mailto:AskGlen@aim.com

Thursday, March 12, 2009

The Hidden Danger In Frozen Foods





Ask Glen!




Q. Glen, I am on weight watchers frozen foods their great but are there any hidden dangers?

A. Frozen entrees are a dieter's best friend...and with good reason. They're convenient, low in calories and come in a variety of meals. Even better, these ready-made meals fit with just about any weight loss plan. However, there is a downside with stocking up on frozen foods. A typical frozen entrée can be loaded with sodium. For example, one popular brand offers a chicken fettuccini entrée that contains 700 milligrams per serving. Too much sodium is problematic for individuals with high blood pressure or other health conditions that necessitate a low salt diet. Your best bet is to check the nutritional values on each meal before selecting an entrée.

Glen's Bottom Line: Watch your salt!!!

Ask Glen!

An Informative Guide: To Mental, Physical, Health, Exercise, Proper Nutrition for Men & Women. And living a Long and Healthy Life Style

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.Please consult your physician!

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health.

Any questions?
Ask Glen!


Fitness Builders

Glen Edward Mitchell

AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

ACSM Certified Personal Trainer


Founder - Ask Glen! Fitness Builders, Clean, Lean & Mean & G350

678-294-5196

askglen@aim.com

Friday, February 13, 2009

Six Meals A Day Is The Best Way!




Ask Glen!




Q.Glen, How many meals should I eat a Day?

A. Just because we've been raised to eat three big meals a day doesn't mean it's the right way. Research shows the best way to keep your metabolism revved up is to eat small, frequent meals. When you wake up, enjoy a balanced breakfast. Within a few hours, enjoy a mid-morning snack. Come lunchtime, treat yourself to a sandwich and soup or a burger and side salad. By 3:00 or 4:00, you'll be ready for an afternoon snack. Dinner should consist of a protein, a healthy carb and a vegetable. If you get hungry following supper, indulge in a smart dessert like fruit.

Glen's Bottom Line: Eat Eat eat!!


Ask Glen!


An Informative Guide: To Mental, Physical, Health, Exercise, Proper Nutrition for Men & Women. And living a Long and Healthy Life Style

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.Please consult your physician.

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health...

Any questions?
Ask Glen!


Fitness Builders

Glen Edward Mitchell

AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

ACSM Certified Personal Trainer


Founder - Fitness Builders, Ask Glen! Clean, Lean & Mean

678-294-5196
mailto:askglen@aim.com

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

No-Nonsense Butter Substitute




Ask Glen!




Q. Glen, Is there any real Butter Substitute?


A. Replace butter with Butter Buds. Give yourself a pat on the back by giving up those pats of butter. One tablespoon of butter has 100 calories and 11 grams of fat (7 grams of saturated fat). There's no reason you have to give up the great taste, however. Butter Buds is a low-cholesterol fat-free substitute with just five calories per serving. Use it on your sweet potato, brown rice or baked chicken for a burst of flavor.

Glen's Bottom Line: No Butter!!!!

Ask Glen!

An Informative Guide: To Mental, Physical, Health, Exercise, Proper Nutrition for Men & Women. And living a Long and Healthy Life Style


Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.Please consult your physician!

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health.

Any questions?
Ask Glen!


The WorkOut GEM
Fitness Builders


Glen Edward Mitchell


AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist
NASM Certified Personal Trainer
ACSM Certified Personal Trainer


Founder - Ask Glen! Fitness Builders, Clean, Lean & Mean & G350, G180, G90

678-294-5196

mailto:AskGlen@aim.com

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Make Friends With Your Server




Ask Glen!






Q. Glen, How do I order the good healthy stuff on the menu when I am eating out?

A. In a restaurant, there's probably nobody more familiar with the menu than the waitstaff, with the exception of the kitchen staff. If you're unsure what to order, get a recommendation from your server. Explain that you're trying to eat healthy and ask what they'd suggest. In addition to advocating a healthy offering off the menu, they might know of popular meals that aren't found on the menu. Many restaurants are flexible when it comes to meeting the needs of their patrons.

Glen's Bottom Line: Ask the staff..

Any personal health questions or problems mental or physical or before starting any diet or exercise program.

Please consult your physician!

My mission is to provide you with "Trusted Advice for a Healthier Life."

Yours in good health,,,,

Any questions?
Ask Glen!

The WorkOut GEMGlen Edward Mitchell

AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist
NASM Certified Personal Trainer
ACSM Certified Personal Trainer

Founder - Ask Glen! Clean, Lean & Mean

Insanity Are you committed?

P90X Men Now it Begins!

P90X Women Now it Begins!

Polar Heart Rate Monitor FT40 FT60

Polar Heart Rate Monitor FT80

TRX Suspension Training Now offered at Fitness Builders 4 Life

Proform Better

About Me

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Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States
Is the Founder of Fitness Builders 4 Life,the WorkOut GEM,G350,G180, G90, Eat 4 Life, Clean, Lean & Mean & Ask Glen. The mission of the Fitness Builders is to provide the community with health education and to empower people to change unhealthy lifestyles thereby increasing life expectancy. By educating the community on healthier lifestyle practices it is the intent of Fitness Builders to reduce the ravages of obesity, heart disease, cancer and other lifestyle or self inflicted diseases. Glen is also a AMA Certified Nutrition Specialist and a ACE, ACSM, NASM Certified Personal Trainer has 30+ years in Sports, Exercise Science and Nutritional Food Management, Learning and Mentoring Men and Women on a more Mental & Physical Healthy Life Style consisting of a low fat, low salt, Low carbohydrate, high protein, organic nutrition which also includes moderate exercise and mental awareness. Stay Informed, Live long and be Mentally and Physically Healthy! Any questions? Ask Glen!

Any Questions? Ask Glen!

AskGlen@aim.com