Some people want to do the bare minimum to get by and eat convenience foods rather than changing their habits to embrace healthier, less processed foods. If you take a quality multi and eat whole foods, you will gain much more energy than eating a highly processed diet and taking fat burners.
What's worse, the jitters you get from the energy tablets are negative side effects. Your adrenaline system is being stressed. Stress creates cortisol and this inhibits fat loss. So you might feel more energetic, but your body is actually in a state of stress and may not be as capable of burning fat as the marketing hype would have you believe.
Finally, your body does adapt to the energy burners. If you continue to take them, you can suffer from over training and fatigue from the over stimulation of your parasympathetic nervous system. If you cycle off of them then you simply lose the energy kick you were receiving and reintroduce the negative side effects when you cycle back on.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
What Am I Really Missing By Not Taking A Multivitamin?
There are dozens and dozens of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can contribute to optimal health. Just as a few examples ...
Vitamins:
Vitamin B1, for example, is used in many chemical reactions in the body and is present in every tissue. It helps convert glucose to energy. Deficiency can create neuromuscular, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular problems.
This is incapable of being produced by the body, and must be present in the diet. Unfortunately, it is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in humans - a US Dept of Agriculture study reported that 45 percent of Americans consume less than the USRDA.
Minerals:
Calcium is an example of a mineral. It is the most abundant mineral in the body. Beyond bones, calcium affects how nutrients pass through cell walls, is used in muscular contraction and even helps cells bind to each other. The epidemic of Osteoporosis is evidence enough that people are not receiving enough calcium. The Western diet, which is high in saturated fats, salts, animal proteins, and processed sugars creates acidic waste products. This means the body must leech calcium from the bones to form an alkaline environment. Most people mistakenly take on dairy for calcium, not realizing that plants are a more abundant source and dairy actually increases the body's need for calcium, so it's a catch-22.
Those are examples using two sample vitamins and minerals. There are other antioxidants, such as CoQ10, that have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, etc. The issue is that our environment is much more toxic than it was even 100 years ago. Not only do crops yield fewer nutrients, but our body REQUIRES more to combat contaminants in the air, in the soil, in the water supply, and even to combat the stress that we cause in our jobs and fast-paced lifestyle.
Most people try to rationalize their vitamin intake by deciding that they will see if they "feel" a difference and then choose whether to continue or not. The fact is that degenerative disease is an epidemic. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, the second leading cause of death in the year 2000 was lack of exercise and poor diet (not lack of calories, either, Americans over consume calories but are malnourished because the food supply is so processed that vital nutrients are damaged or removed and unavailable). People don't "feel" their arteries clogging even though a large number of adolescents and even young children suffer from atherosclerosis due to the poor diet and toxic environment we live in.
Vitamins:
Vitamin B1, for example, is used in many chemical reactions in the body and is present in every tissue. It helps convert glucose to energy. Deficiency can create neuromuscular, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular problems.
This is incapable of being produced by the body, and must be present in the diet. Unfortunately, it is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in humans - a US Dept of Agriculture study reported that 45 percent of Americans consume less than the USRDA.
Minerals:
Calcium is an example of a mineral. It is the most abundant mineral in the body. Beyond bones, calcium affects how nutrients pass through cell walls, is used in muscular contraction and even helps cells bind to each other. The epidemic of Osteoporosis is evidence enough that people are not receiving enough calcium. The Western diet, which is high in saturated fats, salts, animal proteins, and processed sugars creates acidic waste products. This means the body must leech calcium from the bones to form an alkaline environment. Most people mistakenly take on dairy for calcium, not realizing that plants are a more abundant source and dairy actually increases the body's need for calcium, so it's a catch-22.
Those are examples using two sample vitamins and minerals. There are other antioxidants, such as CoQ10, that have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, etc. The issue is that our environment is much more toxic than it was even 100 years ago. Not only do crops yield fewer nutrients, but our body REQUIRES more to combat contaminants in the air, in the soil, in the water supply, and even to combat the stress that we cause in our jobs and fast-paced lifestyle.
Most people try to rationalize their vitamin intake by deciding that they will see if they "feel" a difference and then choose whether to continue or not. The fact is that degenerative disease is an epidemic. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, the second leading cause of death in the year 2000 was lack of exercise and poor diet (not lack of calories, either, Americans over consume calories but are malnourished because the food supply is so processed that vital nutrients are damaged or removed and unavailable). People don't "feel" their arteries clogging even though a large number of adolescents and even young children suffer from atherosclerosis due to the poor diet and toxic environment we live in.
Are Protein Shakes Essential?
The fact is that you can get everything you need from whole foods. While shakes are great for convenience, they also come at an expense. You want your protein to be released slowly except after a workout, when faster proteins like whey are optimal.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
A great THF testimonial
Elizabeth Reinhard
City and State: Nephi, Utah
Consultants Name at Total Health & Fitness: Daniel Olsen
I have struggled with weight loss for 25 years. Every time I lost weight, I would gain it back and then some. I had an especially difficult time after each of my six children were born. With every one, I would gain more weight. I became very depressed about the whole thing, and that only added more pounds on as I turned to food for consolation. I had a very unhealthy relationship with food. I basically used it as an addictive substance. I ate to ease the pain and thus continued to inflict more pain and suffering on myself because of my bad habits. But I desperately wanted to change! I had a brand new baby boy that would need his old mom to be healthy and able to keep up with his youthful exuberance. I wanted to be there for him, and most of all, I wanted to have the energy to enjoy being a mother.
I did not think I could do the Total Health and Fitness Program because I thought I would fail once again. I thought I would not like having someone to report to, because I would want to rebel against whatever the consultant asked me to do. I didn't really believe that it would work for me. I wondered if it was safe to try to lose weight while nursing a baby. I did not think that they had correct information as to what foods are good for you. I really dreaded the thought of having to count calories! I cringed at the idea of sharing with anyone my weight and measurements.
My consultant, Daniel Olsen, put all my concerns to rest. He told me that I was the type of person who had an incredibly strong will and that I could succeed! I found I really had no inclination to rebel against this very kind and sensitive soul who was willing to help me fulfill a goal that had always been impossible to reach. I was very impressed with the extent of his knowledge concerning how our bodies work. I was amazed at the amount of time and effort he put into planning my program for me. I was relieved to learn that I would not have to be counting out the calories. Even though it was initially uncomfortable about sharing information concerning everything but my shoe size, I found him to be very professional. I knew he was "safe" and that I could trust him.
I like how the Total Health and Fitness Program works. It has taken a while for my body to grow accustomed to eating so differently. I had been especially concerned with how the change would affect my ability to produce enough milk for my nursing baby. I really like how Daniel has helped me through by adjusting my program to fit our needs. He figures out exactly what my body requires and makes changes gradually so that I can experience the best results with the least stress. I like how he listens to my concerns and encourages me contact him if I ever have any questions or difficulties. I love the feeling I get from eating good foods and getting proper exercise. (I also love that I get a" free" meal!) It has been very helpful to go to the THF website to learn how to do the exercises properly and print off information about my program. I am thankful that I don't need to go in every week to see him in person, and that we can communicate over the phone and through emails. I know that the knowledge Daniel has shared with me is one of the main keys to my success.
I have lost nearly 30 lbs total weight, and from what my consultant tells me, I have lost even more in pounds of pure fat. (Since I used to have such a love affair with butter, I like to put that weight loss into perspective by telling people how many cubes of butter have lost! = ) I am lighter and stronger and able to move more freely and do things I thought I could never do. My clothes fit better, and some I have even permanently removed from my wardrobe! I look forward to being able to reach my goal to be an active and healthy mother. I know it is within my reach!
Perhaps the most amazing thing about this whole experience is that Daniel Olsen has given me HOPE through the THF Program. You can not put a price tag on that.
City and State: Nephi, Utah
Consultants Name at Total Health & Fitness: Daniel Olsen
I have struggled with weight loss for 25 years. Every time I lost weight, I would gain it back and then some. I had an especially difficult time after each of my six children were born. With every one, I would gain more weight. I became very depressed about the whole thing, and that only added more pounds on as I turned to food for consolation. I had a very unhealthy relationship with food. I basically used it as an addictive substance. I ate to ease the pain and thus continued to inflict more pain and suffering on myself because of my bad habits. But I desperately wanted to change! I had a brand new baby boy that would need his old mom to be healthy and able to keep up with his youthful exuberance. I wanted to be there for him, and most of all, I wanted to have the energy to enjoy being a mother.
I did not think I could do the Total Health and Fitness Program because I thought I would fail once again. I thought I would not like having someone to report to, because I would want to rebel against whatever the consultant asked me to do. I didn't really believe that it would work for me. I wondered if it was safe to try to lose weight while nursing a baby. I did not think that they had correct information as to what foods are good for you. I really dreaded the thought of having to count calories! I cringed at the idea of sharing with anyone my weight and measurements.
My consultant, Daniel Olsen, put all my concerns to rest. He told me that I was the type of person who had an incredibly strong will and that I could succeed! I found I really had no inclination to rebel against this very kind and sensitive soul who was willing to help me fulfill a goal that had always been impossible to reach. I was very impressed with the extent of his knowledge concerning how our bodies work. I was amazed at the amount of time and effort he put into planning my program for me. I was relieved to learn that I would not have to be counting out the calories. Even though it was initially uncomfortable about sharing information concerning everything but my shoe size, I found him to be very professional. I knew he was "safe" and that I could trust him.
I like how the Total Health and Fitness Program works. It has taken a while for my body to grow accustomed to eating so differently. I had been especially concerned with how the change would affect my ability to produce enough milk for my nursing baby. I really like how Daniel has helped me through by adjusting my program to fit our needs. He figures out exactly what my body requires and makes changes gradually so that I can experience the best results with the least stress. I like how he listens to my concerns and encourages me contact him if I ever have any questions or difficulties. I love the feeling I get from eating good foods and getting proper exercise. (I also love that I get a" free" meal!) It has been very helpful to go to the THF website to learn how to do the exercises properly and print off information about my program. I am thankful that I don't need to go in every week to see him in person, and that we can communicate over the phone and through emails. I know that the knowledge Daniel has shared with me is one of the main keys to my success.
I have lost nearly 30 lbs total weight, and from what my consultant tells me, I have lost even more in pounds of pure fat. (Since I used to have such a love affair with butter, I like to put that weight loss into perspective by telling people how many cubes of butter have lost! = ) I am lighter and stronger and able to move more freely and do things I thought I could never do. My clothes fit better, and some I have even permanently removed from my wardrobe! I look forward to being able to reach my goal to be an active and healthy mother. I know it is within my reach!
Perhaps the most amazing thing about this whole experience is that Daniel Olsen has given me HOPE through the THF Program. You can not put a price tag on that.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Good Energy Chocolates
There are many traditional delivery systems such as tablets and capsules to consume your daily supplements. These have obvious strengths but also certain weaknesses. With the recent chocolate health advantages, indulgence can now be validated. Energy Bites chocolate delivery serves as a natural source of desirable antioxidants, natural mild stimulants and functions to trigger brain production or opiates contributing to enhance the sense of well-being. In addition, added nutrients are included and are effectively masked to make taking your needed supplements more pleasurable.
3 Major Functions of Energy Bites:
- Energy and Burn Fat
- Appetite Supressession
- Antioxidants
Should I cut out the carbs?
Cutting carbs is an illusion. It cuts calories (Because carbs have calories) and in addition, because your muscles need carbs, when your muscles lose carbs, it loses water as well. Therefore, you lose lean mass. This creates what appears to be greater weight loss, but really isn't.
There is no need to restrict carbs. It is a very popular trend, but despite popular belief, it's not a new trend, either. There was a low carb craze in the Roman era and there was one at the turn of the century as well. Like all trends and fads, those came and went and the age old axiom of eating clean, whole, unprocessed foods in moderation combined with exercise still reigns supreme.
There is no need to restrict carbs. It is a very popular trend, but despite popular belief, it's not a new trend, either. There was a low carb craze in the Roman era and there was one at the turn of the century as well. Like all trends and fads, those came and went and the age old axiom of eating clean, whole, unprocessed foods in moderation combined with exercise still reigns supreme.
What about cardio?
Different forms of cardio serve different purposes. You can lose fat using both moderate intensity and high intensity cardio. In fact, if you are looking to kick start fat loss, then chances are your issue is not the exercise you are doing, but nutrition. While it is easier to change the exercises or swap the cardio, it is nutrition that people have the hardest time sticking with but is often the key element that is keeping them from breaking through. You can achieve much more fat loss by manipulating your nutrition than you could your cardio. For example, simply trimming off an ounce from a portion of meat at each meal would save you more calories over a week than adding a full 30 minutes of high intensity cardio. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that cardio is not important. What I am saying is that the right nutrition and the right cardio is the path to your success. To find out more about what is the right kind of nutritional and exercise program, visit us at thfonline.com.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Understanding the body/mind connection
As important as what we feed our body, are the thoughts we feed our mind. What we think and what we eat, combined together make us what we are physically and mentally.
Here's another good one:
Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change. How do these comments apply to health and fitness you ask? Positive affirmation is vital for your health. The Universe responds to "I AM" statements like a genie in a bottle. Proper nutrition, exercise and positive affirmation is key to body, mind and soul empowerment!
"Joni Fairbourn"
Exercise and Nutrition Consultant
11075 South State Street Suite 17
Sandy, Utah 84070
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
How could I possibly ever be happy with my body or me?
Listen to the conversations you have with yourself and start to realize they are negative and turn them around. Self-esteem is your ability to deliver on your self-promises, but self-image is simply your perception of yourself. Changing both is easy, but takes time - Examples:
Simply choose the new image and focus on it daily. Repetition and results can create faith and belief.
For the self-esteem, start honoring your own promises. You'll be amazed at how confident you become when you don't sell yourself short.
Simply choose the new image and focus on it daily. Repetition and results can create faith and belief.
For the self-esteem, start honoring your own promises. You'll be amazed at how confident you become when you don't sell yourself short.
I just don't have time to live healthy.
It's not an impossible schedule, you are just choosing it to be. Everyone has the same hours in the day. If a woman I know whose husband was recovering from brain surgery could take care of him, teach him how to walk and talk and rehabilitate him, raise her children, work full time, run a part-time coaching practice and lose over 100 pounds at the same time, I know you can, too, if you choose.
There are always challenges, the key is to live in the solution. The keys are going to be to find what little time you have during the week and focus on that to prepare meals that are "grab and go" throughout the week.
The other challenge is to really focus on time management and organization. The Total Health & Fitness program can help you become better at time management and life preparation.
You can succeed just by planning 15 - 30 minutes each day. It may seem impossible but let's face it, without a plan you really can't succeed.
Rest is important, but at times, it doesn't have to be the main priority. You can cut into 15 or 30 minutes of rest and create that time to manage your coming day.
The human body can do amazing things when pushed to reveal it's inner power, and this should not be a condition for the rest of your life.
There are always challenges, the key is to live in the solution. The keys are going to be to find what little time you have during the week and focus on that to prepare meals that are "grab and go" throughout the week.
The other challenge is to really focus on time management and organization. The Total Health & Fitness program can help you become better at time management and life preparation.
You can succeed just by planning 15 - 30 minutes each day. It may seem impossible but let's face it, without a plan you really can't succeed.
Rest is important, but at times, it doesn't have to be the main priority. You can cut into 15 or 30 minutes of rest and create that time to manage your coming day.
The human body can do amazing things when pushed to reveal it's inner power, and this should not be a condition for the rest of your life.
Why is drinking water important for losing fat?
Oxidation of fat creates waste products. You need water to help flush them. The reaction that uses fat for fuel also involves water, so if you are dehydrated, there is a chance you won't burn as much fat. When you train, you deplete your muscles of glycogen.
The only way for glycogen to get back into the muscle is through glucose bound to water, so without enough water, you won't get the fuel to your muscles that need it. Water is what the body uses to manipulate the charge inside and outside of the cell to drive nutrients and and waste products out.
Without water, you are potentially not delivering the nutrients your body needs to burn fat.
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