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So my journey began about five years ago. I was at a point where I was overweight and feeling depressed, I knew I needed a change. A lot of my workout routines started in my own home. I started with a basic workout but stayed consistent. While initially not seeing results I didnt get discouraged and I continued to persevere. Ive lost 85 lbs in total while losing weight and building strength and am in the best shape of my life.

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Dove Online Training helps you achieve your goals of maintaining a healthy lifestyle - morethanthecurve.com

When it comes to diet during the pandemic, Verma recognizes that typically less-healthy comfort foods are attractive when we experience stress. First, dont buy tempting foods so that it doesnt become an issue, she advises. Also, give yourself some grace no one is perfect. I like to set myself up for success with small goals to make sustainable long-term lifestyle changes. If you can initially commit to one healthy meal a day, thats something easily achievable, and youll feel good about meeting that goal. Then gradually make it two meals, etc.

Those who do contract COVID-19 may face cardiovascular effects that physicians are still learning about. It can cause minor issues, such as palpitations, to more serious issues, such as heart attacks, Verma says. Unfortunately, there is no great way to predict who is likely to have these complications, although underlying cardiovascular disease does make the risk higher. Many people are also facing symptoms after recovering from COVID-19 infection from a cardiovascular standpoint. Verma sees these patients in a special post-COVID-19 cardiac clinic for those more than 30 days past initial infection.

I have noticed that many people who come see me had a relatively benign course of COVID-19 not needing hospitalization and mild symptoms, she says. However, they then have cardiac symptoms lingering or developing in the weeks after, typically palpitations, high heart rate, low blood pressure or high blood pressure, chest pain, shortness of breath, etc. Again, we dont have a good reason for why this happens to some and not others. Also, we dont know how long these symptoms will last or if they will go away completely. These are real symptoms, though, that are having a major impact on quality of life.

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Maintaining a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Amid the Pandemic - Ladue News

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Shakira, 44; Christie Brinkley, 67; Brent Spiner, 72; Graham Nash, 79.Happy Birthday: Follow through. Motivation and discipline will help you achieve whatever you set out to conquer this year. Ask questions, gather information and strive to make a difference. Taking care of your mental, emotional and physical well-being will help you ward off any negative influences you encounter. Trust and believe in what you are capable of doing. Your numbers are 9, 13, 21, 27, 33, 42, 49.ARIES (March 21-April 19): Youll be right on target. Your insight and ability to take control and get things done will be impressive. How you handle others will pay off. Time spent with someone you love will lead to a new chapter in your relationship. 3 starsTAURUS (April 20-May 20): Uncertainty will prevail if you make a premature move. Consider every angle before you forge ahead with plans that can affect your income. When in doubt, talk to an expert. Avoid locations and contact with individuals who may present a health risk. 3 starsGEMINI (May 21-June 20): Youll be offered insight into something that can help you make an important decision. Added discipline will pay off when putting together a proposal or taking advantage of an opportunity that comes your way. Romance is on the rise. 5 starsCANCER (June 21-July 22): Dont flirt with temptation. An attraction to something or someone will put you at a disadvantage if you are too friendly or accommodating. Take a wait-and-see approach and let situations unfold naturally. An original idea will pay off. 2 starsLEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Handle professional matters and partnerships with discretion. Making an impromptu move or decision will set you back. Look for opportunities that are foolproof. Nurture essential relationships to avoid a falling out. Personal growth and a healthy lifestyle are encouraged. Romance will enhance your life. 4 starsVIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Do whatever it takes to arm yourself with the necessary information, skills and experience to follow your dreams. Dont give up on something that will satisfy you. Take responsibility for your happiness. Its up to you to make things happen. 3 starsLIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Dont procrastinate. Opportunities are available; all you have to do is to take action. Speak up, share your ideas and engage in conversations geared toward positive lifestyle changes that are budget-friendly and intriguing. Love and romance are favored. 3 starsSCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Keep your thoughts and plans a secret. Dont give anyone ammunition that will set you back or interfere with your life. Work under the radar until you have everything in place. When ready to reveal, do so in an unprecedented fashion. 3 starsSAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Reach out to people who can help you bring about positive change. An opportunity to raise your earning potential or start a new career looks inviting. Interviewing, debating and making your point will lead to victory. Romance is in the stars. 4 starsCAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Take a back seat and listen carefully. The information offered will help you make adjustments at home to improve your performance, but roommates, family or friends arent likely to be impressed. Be mindful of others, and compromise. 2 starsAQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take care of financial, medical and legal matters before they have a chance to escalate. Let your instincts lead the way, and allow your ability to recognize who is and who isnt on your side influence you to navigate your way to victory. 5 starsPISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Use your intuition and creative mind to push forward. Bring about change that will help you get ahead. Let go of what no longer works for you and the people who drag you down instead of lift you up. Choose a positive path. 3 starsBirthday Baby: You are unique, intelligent and humanitarian. You are impatient and restless.1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but dont rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and youll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.

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Leo: Personal growth and a healthy lifestyle are encouraged - Lewiston Sun Journal

The COVID-19 pandemic has burdened families with economic hardship, food insecurity, school closings, and shutdowns, making it challenging for both adults and children and adolescents to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Emerging data show that individuals with obesity, including children, are at higher risk for the severe effects of COVID-19, says Sandra Hassink, MD, MS, FAAP. This highlights the importance of recognizing obesity as a chronic disease affecting many patients and with disease characteristics that make severe COVID more likely, such as dysregulated immunological function and chronic inflammation. Just as with other chronic diseases, obesity treatment during the epidemic should not be put on hold.

In December 2020, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently released two new interim guidance documents to help pediatricians support children struggling to access nutritious food and engage in physical activity during the pandemic, including those who have obesity. The recommendations are available for free at http://www.aap.org. This guidance was issued to promote greater attention to obesity prevention and surveillance for situations in which a childs weight starts to escalate, says Dr. Hassink. Both documents highlight the need for pediatricians to help families find waysoften under difficult circumstancesto maintain healthy lifestyles.

Nutrition & Physical Activity

According to AAP, it is vital for pediatricians to recognize new barriers that have resulted from the pandemic. Pediatricians are recommended to assess and screen children and adolescents for nutrition and physical activity disruptions that are attributable to the pandemic andto screen for obesity onset or worseningat all well visits.

Clinicians should aim to help their patients stick with well-balanced scheduled meals and snacks and limit or eliminate sugary drinks from their diet, says Dr. Hassink. They should be encouraged to eat together as a family when possible and turn off screens when eating. Regarding physical activity, patients should get up and move frequently during the day, take 10-minute breaks for every hour of screen time, walk outside, use the stairs, and stretch. Safe outdoor time is good for mental and physical health. To help with sleep, adhering to a bedtime routine and planned bedtimes, even on weekends, is important, and digital screens should not be used in the bedroom. The guidance also recommends outdoor play, creative activities, talking with family and friends, and meditation to help relieve stress and facilitate healthy decisions.

AAP notes that tailored counseling should be provided using positive strategies that build on family strengths. Counseling should be tailored to developmental stage and socioeconomic, cultural, and psychological characteristics of families. Pediatricians should also become familiar with the complex and interconnected factors that lead to poor nutrition, decreased activity, and excessive weight gain and how these factors may be affected by the pandemic.

Obesity

AAP recommends that healthcare providers continue treatment for obesity during the pandemic, including intensive lifestyle counseling and pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery. Patients need to keep their follow up appointments for their obesity treatment, either by telemedicine or in person, says Dr. Hassink (Table). We cannot delay needed treatment for obesity or obesity related comorbidities, and we must continue counseling patients on precautions to prevent COVID-19 infection.

Of note, children and adolescents with obesity may face increased stigma. The AAP recommends pediatricians be aware that weight bias and stigma may increase during the pandemic. Clinicians are urged to use a nonjudgmental approach with their patients and families and to continue advocating for reduction of weight bias and stigma.

Looking Ahead

With the COVID-19 pandemic in full effect, many once familiar environments have changed to unrecognizable scenarios, increasing stress for children and families. We still need to continue conducting research on the chronic disease of obesity and its effects on anatomy, physiology, metabolism, even with the ongoing pandemic, says Dr. Hassink. We also must research the most effective ways to help families maintain and sustain healthy lifestyle changes in the face of adverse food and activity environments. Furthermore, studies are needed to establish effective ways to impact change to a healthier food supply, to reduce advertising of unhealthy food to children, and to increase physical activity options.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Obesity management and treatment during COVID-19. December 9, 2020. Available at: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-guidance/obesity-management-and-treatment-during-covid-19/.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Supporting healthy nutrition and physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. December 9, 2020. Available at: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-guidance/supporting-healthy-nutrition-and-physical-activity-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/.

Browne NT, Snethen JA, Smith Greenberg C, et al. When pandemics collide: the impact of COVID-19 on childhood obesity. J Pediatr Nurs. 2020 Nov 11 [Epub ahead of print]. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7657263/pdf/main.pdf.

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Welcome Guidance on Pediatric Healthy Lifestyles & Obesity Management During the Pandemic - Physician's Weekly

After wrapping up an eight week program with Cleveland Clinic's Wellness Center, Jason shares lessons learned, challenges and results.

CLEVELAND My wellness journey began several months into the pandemic. When I looked at myself in the mirror, I admit I wasnt happy with what I saw. My suits were a little too tight. Staying home meant I wasnt exercising and I turned to food to help me cope.

As I asked around, I found out I wasn't alone.

There were so many people who were out there who were not only struggling with their weight loss but also going through what I call the mental health roller coaster. The pandemic was creating many stressors, and road-blocks to living a well-rounded healthy lifestyle.

So, my hope was to inspire other people to take control of not only their mental health but also their physical health. I wanted to demonstrate that not only are we going to get through this, but that we can get through this together.

It's why I partnered with the Cleveland Clinics Wellness Center, and two 3News viewers, Kim and Kati, to get things back on track.

The mission of the program wasnt just about learning how to lose weight. It is about a full mind and body transformation in how you view food and your overall wellness. There were several things i learned. First, I had tounderstand that I didn't gain the weight overnight, I didn't get here overnight and it was going to take time.

Throughout this process, I had to say to myself a couple of times, it's going to be okay, you're going to get through it. Small changes lead to medium changes and medium changes lead to bigger changes.

There were some other things I admit I struggled with. I was anxious about acupunctureand I admit, I'm not the biggest fan of yoga.

But there were other challenges, too. At some point, I hit a plateau. I was losing weight, and things were good, but then I just hit a wall where I wasn't losing any more weight. That was really hard for me, because then that meant okay, well, I need to adjust something to continue.

But there were some perks, too. My favorite part of the program of course involved food. Working with Chef Jim Perko, the Executive Chef at Cleveland Clinic's Wellness Center, taught me about the concept of making sure you're eating foods that love you back. Now, I'm always asking myself as I'm eating something - is this a food that's going to love me back?

So how did I do? Well, that depends on how you evaluate success.

When I went for my last appointment, there was good news and bad news. I'll share the bad news first - my cholesterol numbers were still fairly high. That's something I will continue to work on improving.

My other numbers were better - my vitamin B levels got better, and I am happy to report I lost 17 pounds. So many viewers contacted me to say that they noticed my face was looking slimmer, and I think 17 pounds is fantastic when you think about doing this over just a two month journey.

While I know I have more weight to lose, I have to appreciate the progress I have made. Committing to a healthy lifestyle takes commitment, it takes discipline, it takes time, and it also takes having a conversation with yourself and saying - I'm not happy with what I'm seeing in the mirror, I'm not happy with what isgoing on in my life. It's okay to have that conversation, and there's always an opportunity to for a fresh start, and a new you.

Editor's Note: The below story aired on January 25, 2021

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The New You: Jason Frazer reflects on his healthy living journey - WKYC.com

This Thursday, Feb. 4, Dignity Health Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital will join health care providers and families around the world in commemorating World Cancer Day. The goal of the day is to both honor those whose lives have been touched by cancer while also working to prevent cancer in the future.

World Cancer Day was established last year, explains David Campbell, MD, a cancer specialist with Dignity Health Medical Group Sierra Nevada. It is a day to place cancer awareness in the news and to promote public awareness of cancer issues. The hope is that by highlighting this day in the media, people will remember to pursue cancer prevention and early detection strategies.

The best strategies for preventing cancer are the healthy lifestyle choices that can prevent other illnesses, too:

Dont use tobacco

Eat a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Maintain a healthy weight

Protect yourself from the sun

Exercise most days

Seeking regular medical care, including screenings that are appropriate for your age and risk factors, is also key to reducing your risk for cancer. Cancer that is found in the earlier stages typically responds better to treatment and leads to better outcomes.

If you or a loved one does receive a cancer diagnosis, working with your care team to develop a treatment plan and following through on that plan is vital. Dr. Campbell says this has proven to be especially challenging for many patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cancer care over the past year has been very difficult, Dr. Campbell says. This is due to the stay-at-home orders and the fear that patients and their families have that socializing with friends and family might result in death or severe illness from COVID. This has created significant social isolation and emotional problems that only worsen the concerns they have due to cancer. I have personally had quite a few patients decline treatment due to this fear.

While there have been some reports nationwide of a decline in heart attack and stroke patients in emergency rooms, particularly early in the pandemic, Dr. Campbell is concerned that there may also be an under-reported number of cancer patients, as well.

The fear of COVID in my opinion has led to a delay in seeking timely medical care, he says. I believe there are fewer people going in for early detection strategies like mammograms and colonoscopies. I believe that as we open the economy back up, we will see a surge in cancer diagnoses, and many will be diagnosed at a more advanced stage due to the delay.

Dr. Campbell and the rest of the team at the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Community Cancer Center have reassured patients and urged them to get the care they need, including screenings. Theyve also tried to find creative, innovative solutions to help meet their patients needs.

In the office we do many visits by telemedicine, Dr. Campbell says, referring to visits that are conducted by video conference using a smart phone or table.

Unfortunately, Dr. Campbell says these virtual visits prove challenging for many of his patients, some of whom struggle with the technology. He also says that the personal touch can be a crucial element when it comes to cancer treatment.

To many of them, the warmth of a hug, a handshake or a smiling face in the same room makes all the difference, Dr. Campbell explains. To them, seeing their doctor on a computer screen is just not adequate. For a doctor, caring for patients is much more than prescribing the right pharmaceutical. The art of medicine involves much, much more than that.

Fortunately, thanks to the COVID-19 vaccines that are currently being distributed across the country, there is hope that a return to normal life, and normal medical care, is on the horizon. In the meantime, Dr. Campbell encourages everyone to do what they can to live a healthy lifestyle, including recommended screenings and medical care. And when and if you are able, get the vaccine.

My advice is to get vaccinated for COVID, he says. And discuss your fears about this virus and the vaccine with your doctor.

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Cancer Care and Prevention Critical Despite Pandemic - The Union of Grass Valley

Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Salmon

Birmingham, AL (RestaurantNews.com) February is American Heart Month, a federally designated month that is an excellent way to remind Americans to focus on their hearts and pledge to a healthy lifestyle. This month, Tazikis Mediterranean Caf will highlight heart-healthy menu items to encourage customers to make nutritious selections and reduce the risk of high blood pressure as well as heart disease.

According to the CDC, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Sadly, it claims a life every 36 seconds in the United States. These totals mean that 655,000 people die each year from what is considered by most health experts to be a preventable disease. Almost 50% of the adults in the United States live with cardiovascular disease, and without expanding awareness on this topic, that number will likely increase.

Tazikis fits into a unique niche with diners when it comes to creating heart health-conscious menu items. Inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, Tazikis colorful menu offers handcrafted, elevated, affordable fare the entire family enjoys.

At Tazikis we search for the highest quality foods possible, this means, flavor, nutrition and quality go hand in hand, said Dan Simpson, CEO of Tazikis Mediterranean Caf. Our Mediterranean menu is built on nutritious staples including fruits, vegetables, potatoes, whole-grains, beans, seafood, diary, nuts and herbs.

The U.S. News & World Reports annual ranking recently revealed the best eating plans for 2021 and for the fourth consecutive year, the Mediterranean diet was named the Best Diet Overall. The traditional eating pattern of the Mediterranean region has also grabbed the No. 1 spot in the Best Diets for Healthy Eating, Easiest Diets to Follow, Best Diets for Diabetes, and Best Plant-Based Diets and Best Heart-healthy categories.

Extra virgin olive oil is one of the few oils that can be eaten without chemical processing and an item that Tazikis uses in many of its menu items.

We have set our standards high for our partners that are responsible for the delicious flavors across our menu, said Keith Richards, Founder of Tazikis Mediterranean Caf. This includes sourcing the restaurants olives, red peppers, olive oil, sea salt and lemon juice directly from the Greek cities of Leonidio, Plaka, Patras, Aiyion and Athens.

During American Heart Month, and always, Tazikis reminds customers to:

Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe understands the importance of providing complete and accurate nutrition information to their customers. Because every customer uses nutrition information differently, Tazikis website and app provide several ways to view nutrition information through the restaurants own nutritional calculator, interactive nutrition menu and allergen menu.

Media Tools: Keith Richards, Founder of Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe discusses the restaurants heart-healthy menu items in this video.

About Tazikis Mediterranean Caf

Tazikis Mediterranean Caf is a rapidly expanding brand, named one of Americas fastest growing leaders by Inc. 5000 in the fresh-casual industry. Having more than tripled in size since 2011, Tazikis has over 90 restaurant locations, spanning across 18 states nationally. Development plans include building the brand in existing markets, as well as entering new areas across the country by 2023.

The essence of Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe is defined by serving fresh ingredients and hand-cut meats daily. The Mediterranean influence in their name echoes across their best-in-class, chef-inspired cuisine but is intentionally approachable for any person, anywhere. Tazikis takes pride in their made-from-scratch food that nourishes customers daily and the artisanship that goes behind doing so without the use of fryers, or microwaves.

Tazikis mission is to create an environment that combines extraordinary food with meaningful human connection.

Contact:Julie Wade, Senior Director of MarketingTazikis Mediterranean Cafjwade@tazikis.com205-547-3645

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Taziki's Mediterranean Caf Highlights Heart-Healthy Menu Items During the Month of February - RestaurantNews.com

Applewood Fresh, a premier produce brand and fourth-generation grower, packer/shipper and marketer of Michigan-grown apples is shipping EverCrisp apples. When it comes to exciting new apples available this winter, the best was saved for last: EverCrisp expands its availability this year as a late-season, sweet apple that packs a superior crunch.

This great quality, blushed rosy red apple is juicy and firm. And, the EverCrisp name says it all. Ever durable, the apple harvestsin lateOctober and stores well, the fruits true flavor is developed during storage, maintaining its sweetness and texture like no other giving apple lovers a fresh, new choice. At the first of the year, the perfect time to introduce to consumers. That makes EverCrisp the ideal snack for a healthy New Year, and a crave-able delight well into 2021. The MAIA-1 apple varietys parentage are Honeycrisp and Fuji, which combines their flavor and juiciness. Each bite produces a loud crunch, followed by an explosion of sweetness.

This yearsvintageharvest will also place EverCrispon grocersshelves, as it is the perfect time of year to add a new variety for consumers to discover as they look to eat healthy, said Brian Coates, VP of Sales for Applewood Fresh. Today, EverCrisp supplies continue to grow each year as more fruit comes into production. Availability is expected to expand exponentially in 2021 and beyond.

Applewood Fresh offers bulk packaging in Standard and Euro Tray pack Cartons, as well as a number of packaged options; 2 lb.pouch,3 lb. poly bags and tote bags to fit the new trend of increased packaged apple sales. Retailers should promote packaged fruit and merchandise in lead-off positions in their produce departments to drive sales.Customers are looking for quick grab and go solutions as the navigate the store to expedite their shopping trip.

To help retailers drive sales, both in-store and online digital marketing tools have been developed to support the EverCrisp program. With the help from The Produce Moms, the eye-catching marketing materialsinclude delicious recipes, e-books andmuchmore.The apple provides a full sensory experience that leaves consumers craving another bite, said Scott Swindeman, Owner of Applewood Fresh.

For more information about the Applewood Fresh, and to place orders, please contact the sales team at Applewood Fresh at 616-239-2871.

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Applewood Fresh EverCrisp, The Sweetest Apple for Your Healthy Lifestyle - PerishableNews

Provided by Novant Health UVA Health System

David DeMaria, M.D.

Learning that you have heart disease can be discouraging, but it doesnt have to be debilitating. Think of it as a new beginning, said David DeMaria, M.D., a cardiologist at Novant Health UVA Health System Prince William Cardiology. Its often a positive thing that its been diagnosed without any dangerous complications. At the very least, it is a massive wake-up call that you cant take your health for granted.

Heart disease refers to several different heart conditions, but the most common is coronary artery disease, which can cause a heart attack. Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in your arteries. Over time, those arteries can narrow, which reduces blood flow to your heart and puts you at risk for heart attack.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. About 655,000 Americans die from heart disease each year.

DeMaria said the first thing he tells a patient who has been diagnosed with coronary artery disease is youre not alone.

Dont be discouraged, he said. Engage with your physician and your medical care, and feel empowered that what you do will make a difference.

For many people with coronary heart disease, the treatment is two-pronged prescribed medicine that can lower your risk of additional plaque buildup and adopting healthy lifestyle changes.

Minimize the amount of sugar and processed foods you eat, DeMaria added. Cut back on salty foods and saturated fats, as well as sugary drinks and fast foods. Its helpful to follow either the Mediterranean diet or the DASH diet, which was originally designed to help people control their blood pressure.

The No. 1 thing I tell my patients is that if theyre feeling well, exercise, exercise, exercise, DeMaria mentioned.

For some people, the first sign of heart disease is sudden death. But for many, their coronary heart disease is discovered early enough that they can modify their lifestyle to limit further heart damage.

The first step? See your doctor for regular check-ups. If a medical issue needs attention, catching it in the early stages is beneficial.

Heart disease kills more people than all forms of cancer combined, DeMaria said. Yet, 80 percent of heart disease is preventable, simply based on risk-factor modification. Diagnosing and treating these risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes can be difficult because many patients feel perfectly fine and are unaware that anything is wrong. This is where regular physicals and screenings are very helpful.

Coronary heart disease can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. With the correct treatment, symptoms can be reduced and your heart function will improve.

I always tell patients to be positive, engaged, empowered, and to partner with their doctor, DeMaria said. Fully commit to this journey. Ask questions about your care plan or medications. You dont need to combat this alone.

For more information on heart and vascular services at Novant Health UVA Health System, visit NovantHealthUVA.org/cardio.

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Youve Been Diagnosed with Heart Disease. Now What? - Prince William Living

Kristen and Maggie Riddick and Alison Cardoza.

February is known as the month of love, so I thought it would be fun to identify the different types of love and examine how love contributes to leading a healthy lifestyle. Love has many meanings to different people and there are many different types of love that can help create meaningful connections in relationships.

According to Psychology Today, there are seven types of love:

Eros: Sexual, passionate or romantic love.Philia: Friendship or shared goodwill, companionship, dependability and trust.Storge: Familial love, parents and children; based on familiarity and dependency and is less contingent on personal qualities.Agape: Universal love, such as for strangers, nature, fitness or a higher power. Having an unselfish concern for others.Ludas: Playful or uncommitted love. Casual, undemanding and uncomplicated.Pragma: Founded on reason or duty. Having longer-term interests at the forefront.Philautia: Self-love, healthy and unhealthy versions. Unhealthy self-love is kindred to hubris, putting the self above the gods.

Heather, Chris and Lily Albro.

At Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center, love is in the air. Heather Albro, a Personal Trainer at Milestone, her husband Chris and daughter Lily train and compete in Olympic Lifting as a family. Heather and Chris have always exercised regularly, but not always together. They started doing CrossFit about seven years ago when Milestone introduced it. It made them realize that they not only enjoyed the workout but also working out together. Heather and Chriss three children have also joined in workouts as well.

A few years ago, Heather switched from CrossFit to Olympic Lifting. She loved the technique, focus and challenge it brought her. Soon after, Chris switched to Olympic Lifting as well and yet another love affair was created. The two began lifting and competing together.

About a year ago, Heather convinced her now 11-year-old daughter Lily to start lifting during the off-season for cross country hoping it would bring strength and confidence to Lilys running. After her first competition, Lily decided lifting was her sport.

With love being the focus of February, I asked Heather how working out together has made her familys love for one another grow. Heather responded, We dont always get to workout at the same time, but we enjoy discussing our workouts in the evening. It has really been a bonding experience for us. We were both out of work for a short period this year due to COVID-19 and having a home gym was quite the stress reliever for us! During this season of life, my daughter and I usually work out together while my husband and middle son do their workout together. It gives the whole family some fun and interesting conversations most evenings.

Chris, Heather and Lily Albro.

Based on Heathers responses and the connection with her family and fitness, at least six of the seven different types of love are connected to the various relationships. Ludas is the only type of love missing in the Albros family dynamic.

Just as love is in the air for the Albros, I also spoke to Milestone members and besties Cathy Hill and Lesa Rice who not only love working out but also love each other. Best friends for over 20 years, Cathy and Lesa met at the dental office where Cathy worked and were pleased to discover that they attended the same church. After joining a Bible study together, their friendship deepened and flourished into a bond that has stood the test of time.

Lesa Rice, Bekki Jo Pritchard and Cathy Hill.

Milestones HMR Program is what ultimately brought the two friends to Milestone. Cathy was inspired by a friend who lost 75 pounds through HMR so she took the leap and made a commitment to join and lost 50 pounds! Soon after, she also fell in love with my Barre classes and I was so honored! She told Lesa about how much she loved the classes and Lesa decided to join too. Lesa feels that working out together has strengthened their friendship and is a key component to feeling younger and living a healthier life.

Cathy says that Lesa is great about getting her to sign up for fitness challenges. Cathy has a competitive edge and loves a good challenge and Lesa is always there to motivate her. Cathy has no interest in going back to the sedentary, overweight person she was just two years earlier. She says having a workout partner who happens to be your best friend makes it easier to stay on course.

Cathy Hill, Bekki Jo Pritchard and Lesa Rice.

As Cathy and Lesas Barre instructor and Personal Trainer at Milestone, it is wonderful to see two besties who truly love each other, love their lives and take a vested interest in those around them. They are positive, attentive and motivating to one another and the other people who attend Barre class. I could not help but feel humbled, honored and love for these two ladies when they shared the following with me. Bekki Jo, you are our inspiration because of the way you live your life and talk the talk. You keep us coming back and looking forward to each class! You encourage and strengthen us, mind and body! Your class is never boring. We are always laughing and talking about funny things and we love it! With a huge serving of phila love, a dash of agape love and a healthy splash of philautia love, Cathy, Lesa and I all get to spread the love around Milestone.

Another pair who bring their love for each other to the fitness floor of Milestone is the mother and daughter duo, Kristen and Maggie Riddick. Being a mother and daughter workout team allows them to strengthen their bond, spend more time together and grow their adult relationship. Both Maggie and Kristen admit to being clumsy, which brings humor and laughter to their workouts.

Kristen and Maggie were encouraged to check out Milestone several times. Knowing that neither was looking for a meat market gym, Milestone was worth a try. Both feel that Milestone offers the benefit of a wonderful facility while also giving them a level of comfort through the availability of professional assistance. Kristen and Maggie take full advantage of the club and are often seen relaxing at our on-site Oasis Spa, or eating a meal together in the Caf. They both also expressed their love for their Personal Trainer, Alison Cardoza by saying, Alison is upbeat, knowledgeable, patient, genuinely concerned about us as individuals, loves to laugh with us and always make us feel good about ourselves.

Kristen and Maggie Riddick and Alison Cardoza.

Alison says she absolutely loves Kristen and Maggies energy. Together as a mother and daughter, they hold each other accountable not only in physical fitness but in life as well. There is no question that they are best friends. They make it easy for me to be their trainer. Their laughter is contagious, which gives my abs a great workout! Their motivation to be the best version of themselves shines through their effort and makes me love my job. The Riddicks bring storge, philia, agape and philautia love with great humor, laughter and an unbreakable bond to Milestone.

As you begin to approach the month of love, I hope you will identify all the different types of love in your life. Do not allow your desire to seek one specific type of love to blind you from the beautiful possibilities in all your love relationships. In spending most of our time seeking romantic love, we often disregard other types of love that are consistent, unconditional and can prove to be more healing, loving and fulfilling. In 2021, open your mind, heart and soul to the love that surrounds you!

Bekki Jo Pritchard, BA and MLS, is a Certified Pilates Instructor, Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Barre Instructor and RYT 200 Yoga Instructor. She is also an Adjunct Professor of Sociology, College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas, NV and Adjunct Professor of Sociology, Craftonhills College, Yucaipa, CA.

Original post:
Love Is In The Air - Voice Tribune

Fitness is paramount these days, and the on-going pandemic has definitely helped people see the disadvantages of a sedentary lifestyle. And since individuals today are tech-savvy, this inclination of theirs has blended with the health quotient too.

People today are a lot more mindful about their health journey, and use technology to keep tabs on significant milestones. In such a scenario, smartwatches are a blessing in disguise. And now, with the boAt Storm smartwatch, people can take control of their fitness goals. The smartwatch gives real-time health updates along with activity trackers. There is an abundant choice of sports also, not giving the user any reason to not workout.

All in all, this device is a boon for people who want to set and accomplish a routine and be mindful about their lifestyles. After all, one cannot take their health for granted in these difficult times.

Originally posted here:
Upgrade to a healthy lifestyle with this smartwatch - Gadgets Now

Whether you like to be competitive or just enjoy physical activity, the Recreation Center is offering three different self-guided fitness challenges this winter.

During the month of February, students can participate in the Indoor Ironman, the Hydrate Challenge and the Wildcat Fit Challenge. Each of these challenges gives students the opportunity to engage in physical activity and compete against other students.

Sports Lead Madison Fritts said all the challenges have different levels of fitness, and they all have the same overall goal of promoting a healthy lifestyle.

The Indoor Ironman is like a triathlon but is a month long instead of one day. It includes running, swimming and biking equivalent, as well as some alternatives if people dont want to swim, such as vertical climbing, extra walking and rowing.

Participants have the option to do this at home, sign up for a 45 minute time slot at the Recreation Center Gym or use the aquatic center to achieve their distance in each category.

This challenge has a fee of $10 until Jan. 31. After that date, the fee goes up to $15 until Feb 7.

The Hydrate Challenge allows students to monitor and set goals for how much water they want to drink each day with weekly check-ins. At the end of the six-week challenge, they earn a certificate for completing the challenge.

Fritts said the Hydrate Challenge aims to promote a healthy lifestyle, hydration and mindfulness.

In the Wildcat Fit Challenge, students can participate individually or in groups of three. There are three different categories: fitness enthusiasts, workout wonders and dont sweat it.

Fritts said each category of fitness can have different amounts of physical activity in order to reach a specified goal.

Intramural Sports Manager Spencer Dalzell said all the challenges are self-tracked, and participants put their activities in an excel sheet and send in weekly updates to the Recreation Center. The Recreation Center then puts the data on its master sheet.

For all challenges, the goal is to promote health and wellness during the winter months and keep a healthy mind. Also, each of the challenges have separate goals along with promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Our two biggest goals always come back to promoting healthy lifestyles and bringing people together and include others, Dalzell said.

For people who dont want to be outside in the cold or dont want to go to the gym, the Wildcat Fit Challenge offers the ability to do workouts in the comfort of their own home.

At home, YouTube videos, we are planning on plugging Group X classes they can live stream from home. It is really trying to promote well-being and health, Fritts said.

Those who dont want to sign-up for the challenges, the Recreation Center has a Discord called CWURec and it allows students to hangout and connect with other students.

Students can register for all the challenges through the online portal on recreation.cwu.edu. Students should click on programs and scroll until they find special events.

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Staying fit: what's new in the 'Burg - The Observer

Virtual Medical "QEBR" has entered an agreement to expand Natural Life outlets in Florida in a joint venture revenue sharing agreement. The Natural Life franchise currently has 4 operating stores and is expanding by opening 10 more Stores in Florida in 2021 with QEBR in a joint venture.

Natural Life's Founder, Gabriel Suarez, stated: "Natural Life is eager to join with Virtual Medical in the joint venture. This a significant next step forward in adding to our initiative for the franchise expansion business opportunity. It is exciting to have a proven model like Natural Life join with Virtual Medical to offer this new opportunity to prospects that want to get into the whole health space."

Larson Elmore CEO of QEBR commented in endorsing the joint venture that "Natural Life is a great brand for QEBR to collaborate with as this deal gives us an immediate presence in the Southeast U.S. market, as well as the ability to increase our footprint across the USA as we move forward with our planned expansion strategy."

This joint venture is expected to duplicate Natural Life's very successful format to establish a larger chain of retail stores that specialize in whole health products and other holistic products such as Kava, Turmeric, Akuamma, Ginseng and Ashwagandha. Natural Life as a company can offer more than 300 CBD products and over 20 brands through its stores and website.Quality and safety are at the forefront, andQEBR is conscious that it needs to ensure that these brands are compliant with all upcoming 2021 regulations. In addition, Natural Life provides its own third-party lab testing (regardless of the manufacturer's own test results). Their attention to quality and safety has led to the successful vetting and approval by Publix supermarkets to be co-located in these big box stores. This store model verifies that a similar model can co-locate in other big chain retailers SEE: https://www.shopnaturallife.com

Mr. Elmore added that "this structure will enable the Company to control the quality and breadth of its product offerings, as well as manage, build and support a national distribution network."

The potential for growth in the sector is demonstrated by almost all of the sector's public companies enjoying an increase in share prices.Marijuana stocks continued to rally on Wednesday afterJazz Pharmaceuticals(JAZZ) announced it would acquireGW Pharmaceuticals(GWPH),a drugmaker best known for a cannabis-derived medication for epileptic seizures. The $7.2 billion deal was announced after Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and Sens. Cory Booker and Ron Wyden this week said they would make cannabis reform a priority this year.

Larson noted that "this legislation would legalize cannabis at the Federal Level. Many observers believe the Biden administration will support passing this legislation. In that case, the company is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunity. We would anticipate that if this legislation is passed, it will be a major step forward for the cannabis industry -- already one of the fastest growing industries in the USA."

About Virtual Medical International

Virtual Medical International, (OTC: QEBR), through its wholly-owned subsidiary, has trademarked the brand name "Amsterdam Caf: Welcome to Your Whole Health". The diversified, multi-channel business model is positioned to derive revenue from product sales through company-owned retail stores, franchise stores, domestic and international franchise activities, third party contract manufacturing, e-commerce and corporate alignments.

Virtual Medical International's business model is designed to help consumers improve the health and quality of their lives by making available an array of high quality, CBD-centric products consistent with a healthy lifestyle. To that end, Virtual Medical formed Amsterdam Caf as a wholly owned subsidiary in order to become a comprehensive, vertically integrated organization within the CBD whole health sector,with plans to acquire and open CDB Stores across the U.S.A. and Europe.

See: http://www.buyamsterdamcafe.com

For further information:

Contact: Larson Elmore Phone: (216) 345-4567 Email: [emailprotected]

Forward-Looking Statements

Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are based on current facts and analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determined, and assumptions of management. Forward looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "aims", "potential", "goal", "objective", "prospective", and similar expressions or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "can", "could" or "should" occur.

Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors beyond the reasonable control of the Company. It is important to note that actual outcomes and the Company's actual results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include misinterpretation of data, the Company's ability to raise financing for operations, breach by parties with whom we have contracted, and the possible inability to maintain qualified employees or consultants.

For more information please see our website: http://www.qebr.net

SOURCE QEBR

http://qebr.net

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Virtual Medical International (OTC: QEBR) Signs Agreement To Open Ten New Whole Health Stores With Natural Life In Florida - PRNewswire

Twenty years ago, teen prodigy Brandon Lil B Turner of San Diego was a global superstar in the skateboarding world.

But with that fame came money, alcohol and drugs. By his 20s, Turner had tipped into a downward spiral of using and selling drugs and stints in jail and prison. In 2016, Turner got sober, got fit and got back on his board in a serious way. Now 39, hes not only skating professionally again, hes a recovery coach who is using his talent and experience as a teaching tool to help other addicts stay clean.

A couple times each week, Turner takes up to 15 clients at the Healthy Life Recovery rehab center in Pacific Beach to local skate parks where he teaches skating skills, shares his story and encourages others to adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep temptations at bay.

If anyone is coming from a place of isolation or struggle with addiction, you can pick up a skateboard anywhere in the world and youre going to find a friend, Turner said in a recent interview. I just try to expose people who are interested to the lifestyle I lived. We dont discuss skateboarding, we meditate. We do organic daily check-ins. We talk about learning how to live life on lifes terms without drugs and having skateboarding as an outlet.

Brandon Turner, 39, pauses after warming up doing a few skateboard tricks at the Linda Vista Skate Park on Dec. 15.

(Nelvin C. Cepeda/The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Ryan Witt, who co-founded Healthy Life Recovery two years ago, said he has heard nothing but positive feedback from clients since Brandon joined the coaching staff a year ago.

They love it. Hes saving lives, Witt said. I get calls all the time from people who say theyve been struggling for years but his inspiration finally gave them courage to say, Hey, I have a problem and Im ready to fix it.

Witt said Turners recovery is very much in keeping with the skating mantra: Youre going to have bad days and fall down. But to get back up and keep going is what keeps your sobriety. Thats what its all about.

Turner grew up in a Navy family in San Diego. When he was 7 years old, his father got orders to move the family to Japan. By that time, Turner had already been skating for several years, but his prized skateboard was stolen during their move to Japan.

When he finally got another board two years later in Japan, Turner sought out a group of young Japanese skaters who taught him to speak the language and their unique style of trick-riding and jumping. Before his family moved back to San Diego when he was 12 years old, he already had landed his first skateboard product sponsor.

Brandon Turner chats with Vivian Gunther at the Linda Vista Skate Park on Dec. 15. The San Diego native now counsels rehab patients on maintaining sobriety through skateboarding.

(Nelvin C. Cepeda/The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Eager to tap into San Diegos skating network, the seventh-grader tracked down then-teen phenom Peter Smolik who took Turner under his wing and helped him land a new sponsor, Voice Skateboards. Through Voice, and later with Shortys Skateboards when he turned pro at 18, Turner spent most of his teen years and early 20s touring the world doing stunt shows, demonstrations and appearances.

In a recent video interview for Jenkem Magazine, fellow Shortys team member Chad Muska said Brandon who went by the nickname Lil B back then was known for his crazy stunts and absolute fearlessness. The touring was relentless and the money was rolling in. Turner told Thrasher magazine last summer that one point during his touring years, he was making up to $60,000 a month.

It was amazing, Turner said in a telephone interview. We had huge budgets and we were traveling multiple countries at a time. It was a crazy time of my life to experience a lot of different cultures and people and share our vision and artistic creations through our products. It really changed my life and gave me a lot of new connections. It was surreal to me and really humbling.

But a big part of the skating lifestyle is celebration, and the partying never ended for Turner. Sometimes he sees old photos of himself performing in different cities around the world and he draws a blank. There was a lot of partying going on and drinking, so some of it is like a blur to me.

For Turner, drinking and taking drugs amplified his inner daredevil spirit, which often led to serious injuries. Afraid of getting arrested for underage drinking in a park, he jumped off a bridge near Mission Beach and broke his leg. A year later, he nearly died at a friends party.

I was in front of a party and was intoxicated and got run over by a car, he said. I broke my leg and ended up on life support and flatlined a few times, he said. It got out of hand with the partying. I started losing control of myself and making bad decisions.

Brandon Turner, 39, pauses after warming up doing a few skate tricks at Linda Vista Skate Park on Dec. 15.

(Nelvin C. Cepeda/The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Although he never stopped skating, Turner said the street lifestyle of using and selling drugs and cycling in and out of jail took over his life in his 20s and early 30s. Finally a year or so after getting out of prison, Turner got sober about 4-1/2 years ago. He said it wasnt an overnight lightbulb moment that helped him stop using, but a gradual series of steps where he learned to set safe personal boundaries for himself.

He started skating purposefully every day, educating himself on self-help philosophies and eating a healthy diet. He also started taking Pilates classes to get his body back in shape and became a certified Pilates instructor. The next step in his recovery journey was to find a way to share what hed learned with others.

Witt was introduced to Turner through a co-worker last year. He was so impressed by Turners personal story and genuine commitment to recovery that he offered him a job on the spot.

Ive always been told America loves the underdog and he was the quintessential underdog, Witt said. Here was this kid who had childhood fame and all the odds were stacked against him. And now hes doing things nobody had done before.

Over the past year, Turner has been filmed undertaking a series of extreme jumps and tricks around San Diego and San Francisco that can be seen at facebook.com/brandon.turner.7146. He also launched Gift, a global clothing brand with his former skating tour mate Sammy Baptista. His next goal is to open a creative space in San Diego where people can practice skateboarding and make art and music.

I feel better than Ive ever felt in my life, Turner said. That just goes to show you with certain lifestyle changes, anyone is capable of anything. Thats my message. If you really take control of your life and live a healthy lifestyle, the sky is really the limit.

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'90s skating prodigy Brandon Turner is back, with a new mission in Pacific Beach - pbmonthly.net

If the 1970s was the decade of jogging and Jazzercise, the 1980s was the decade of aerobics and leotards, the 1990s was the time we all tried Tae Bo, and the 2000s was the decade in which spinning and Zumba classes went mainstream, it's safe to say that the 2010s represented the golden age of not only CrossFit but also high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or "really short workouts."

After all, ever since Chris Jordan, director of exercise physiology at the Johnson & Johnson Human Performance Institute, created his groundbreaking "7-Minute Workout" in 2013and published the science supporting this sort of ultra-short, ultra-intense training in the American College of Sports Medicine's Health & Fitness Journalthere's been something of an exercise arms race to see how short you can make a workout that still achieves results.

According to the latest science, the 2020s may indeed become the decade of the micro-short workout.

Recent research published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise offers some good news for people who may find the aforementioned 7-Minute Workout, The Standing 7-Minute Workout, the 5-Minute Full-Body Blast Workout, workouts that burn 200 calories in less than three minutes, and Martin Gibala's famous One-Minute Workout simply too time-consuming. The study reveals that a four-second workout may significantly increase your cardiovascular fitness levels and increased muscle mass.

In fact, the findings of this study could have a profound effect on the health of older individuals who are past middle-age and wish to stay fitand anyone who is living an overly sedentary lifestyle.

For the study, which was conducted by researchers at the Human Performance Laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin, both male and female participants in their 50s and 60s tried an exercise routine that required them to do four seconds of maximum effort on a Power Cycle (essentially, a stationary bike with a large flywheel that provides resistance), followed by either 15 or 30 seconds of rest between reps. (So, yes, the "Four-Second Workout" actually clocks in closer to 10 minutes.)

The key to the workout is to go all out in those four seconds. "Since the exercise is so powerful, your cardiovascular system is still stimulated during your rest periods," Edward Coyle, Ph.D., head of UT's Human Performance Laboratory, explained to Elemental. "You're consuming a lot of oxygen, and you're recovering the energy stores that you used during the sprints."

The study concluded that the participants who trained this way over the course of eight weeksusing "true maximal power"successfully "increase[d] muscle mass, power, as well as maximal cardiovascular capacity and functional tasks."

Furthermore, the researchers found that doing this exercise had an impact on participants' metabolic response. "The results suggest that breaking up sitting with frequent, intense and extremely abbreviated exercise 'can undo' some of the adverse effects of being sedentary," writes The New York Times.

If you have access to a stationary bike that comes equipped with resistance, consider adding a variation of this workout to your routine. And if you're interested in exploring a great HIIT workout yourself, read on, because we've included a stellar routine right here that you can do basically anywhere. For more great workout inspiration, don't miss The One Workout That Drives 29 Percent More Fat Loss, According to Science.

Stand with your feet slightly less than shoulder-width apart, hands at your sides. Jump into the air, spreading your feet as wide as you can while swinging your arms out to the sides and bringing your hands up over your head, palms facing forward. Immediately jump back up and return your hands and feet to the starting position. That's one Jumping Jack. Repeat at a comfortable pace without stopping for the duration of your warm-up.

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Run in place, bringing your knees up as high as you can and pumping your legs as quickly as you can, for 20 seconds. Rest for 10 seconds.

Get into a push-up position, with your arms straight. Raise your hips as you bring one knee up toward your chest, then quickly reverse leg position as you bring the other knee forward. The movement should be dynamic: rather than simply moving one leg followed by the other, get a rhythm going akin to jogging, where both feet are off the floor for a brief moment. Rest for 10 seconds.

From a crouched position with your feet close together, take a sideways leap to your left, landing on your left foot, with your right foot sweeping behind it, your right arm sweeping in front of your midsection, and your left arm sweeping out to the side. Now, hop to your right, repeating the same form. This should be a smooth, comfortable motion that mimics the movement of a speed skater in action. Rest for 10 seconds.

Lie on the floor facedown with your hands at your sides, just outside your shoulders, and your feet hip-width apart. Raise your hips, thighs, and chest so that your weight is supported by your palms and toes on the ground. This is the starting position. Exhale as you straighten your arms and push your body up until your arms are straight. Try to keep your head, hips, and ankles aligned as though your body is a straight plank. After a brief pause at the top, inhale as you lower yourself down. Do 10 repetitions. Rest for 10 seconds, then repeat the entire cycle.

Cool down with any of the above warm-up movements. And for more ways to live healthier, consider trying one of these Sneaky Weight Loss Tricks That Actually Work, According to Experts.

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This Incredible Four-Second Workout Actually Works, Says New Study | Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

From extreme juice cleanses to supposed miracle supplements, some folks seem willing to try just about anything to lose weight. However, experts say many of these fast-track methods are based on myths, since weight loss is the result of consistently taking in fewer calories than you expend over time and making smart dietary choices.

According to Artur Viana, MD, clinical director of the Metabolic Health & Weight Loss Program at Yale Medicine, one of the most popular weight loss myths is that all you have to do is exercise more and you'll lose weight.

"Exercise is fundamental to a healthy lifestyle, weight loss, and weight maintenance, but it has to come with a change in diet as well," Viana says.

Below, experts in diet and exercise debunk some of the most common misconceptions about weight loss.

Your body doesn't metabolize all foods the same way. And how quickly you digest something can affect insulin levels, blood sugar spikes, and fat storage.

For example, compare 100 calories worth of cake to 100 calories of carrots. The calorie amount is the same, however, the cake is made with refined carbohydrates whereas carrots contain more fiber and nutrients.

This difference is important because your body digests the cake more quickly. This floods your system with glucose, spiking blood sugar and insulin levels in the process, which can promote fat storage.

Carrots, by contrast, are digested more slowly which means less glucose in your blood. This helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and it can also keep you fuller, longer, which may prevent overeating.

So, while 100 calories worth of cake and 100 calories worth of carrots provide the same energy output, one is clearly superior for weight management over the other, says exercise physiologist Joel Seedman, PhD.

Viana also says processed foods don't send the same satiety signals to your brain as whole foods do, meaning you're more likely to overeat and thus, gain weight.

Research suggests that it's what you eat and how much that matters, not necessarily what time you eat.

What the research says: A large 2016 study found no link between eating dinner past 8 p.m. and weight gain in children. However, a 2008 study revealed that people who ate between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. consumed roughly 500 more calories per day and gained more weight than those who only ate during daytime hours. However, other research has shown that mealtime may affect glucose intolerance and reduce fat utilization, especially if you're habitually eating a late dinner.

The takeaway is that eating at night may make you gain weight if it causes you to go over your daily calorie budget, says Andres Ayesta, MS, a registered dietitian and certified strength and conditioning coach.

Carbohydrates are often billed as the enemy when it comes to weight loss, but a 2018 study revealed that adults who followed a low-carb diet lost the same amount of weight, on average, as those who followed a low-fat diet.

Not all carbs are created equal, though. Whole grains pack more fiber than refined carbs, meaning they're metabolized more slowly and don't cause big insulin surges.

In fact, a 2017 study found that people who ate a diet with enough whole grains to meet the recommended dietary allowance for fiber burned 100 more calories per day, in part due to a slight increase in their resting metabolic rate, when compared to people who ate refined grains with little fiber.

Ayesta says that fat contains more calories per gram than protein and carbohydrates, which means fat is much easier to overconsume.

However, a 2019 review revealed that the Mediterranean diet which entails getting about 35% to 40% of your calories from heart-healthy fats may prevent increases in weight and waist circumference in non-obese individuals.

Researchers noted that a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil, for example, can decrease total body weight and BMI.

A 2016 study revealed that people without Celiac disease are buying gluten-free products because they believe they're a "healthier option."

In reality, "many processed gluten-free products are actually more calorie-dense than their gluten-containing counterparts because they may contain more fat and sugar," says Viana.

A 2017 review found that overall, gluten-free foods had more saturated fat, sugar, and salt, and less protein and fiber than regular foods. Specifically, gluten-free bread and flour products tended to contain high fat and sugar in comparison to their gluten-containing counterparts.

When it comes to weight loss, eating breakfast is a mixed bag. Some research indicates it can help with weight loss while other research suggests the opposite. For example, a 2018 review found no strong evidence to support the idea that eating breakfast helps you to lose weight.

Viana says the only case in which eating a large breakfast might be beneficial is if it helps you to eat fewer calories later in the day.

According to Harvard Medical School, a 155-pound person burns roughly 372 calories while running an average 10-minute-per-mile pace for 30 minutes, and about 112 calories lifting weights for the same amount of time.

Even though cardio workouts may burn more calories in the moment than strength training, at least one small study has shown that you may burn more calories in the hours after lifting weights, because your metabolism may stay elevated longer.

Seedman says that when it comes to losing weight, the ideal exercise regimen includes a combination of both cardio and resistance training.

Studies have shown that many exercisers resort to "compensatory behaviors" after working out that offset the calories they expend. For example, a 2009 study of postmenopausal women, who were either overweight or obese, revealed that participants seemed to increase their food intake after working out on a treadmill or exercise bike, either because they felt hungrier or because they thought they burned off a lot of calories.

The idea behind small, frequent meals is that it helps better control hunger and keeps your metabolism up throughout the day for easier weight loss. However, in practice, this isn't what happens, according to scientific research.

For example, a 2007 study examined two groups of people who consumed an equal number of calories per day: one that ate three meals with no snacks, and another that ate three meals and three snacks. By the end of the year-long experiment, researchers found no difference in weight loss between the two groups.

According to Seedman, meal size and frequency is a matter of figuring out which approach best fits your lifestyle and helps you to stay within your daily calorie budget.

While a juice cleanse may result in short-term weight loss, Viana says that's due to a severe calorie deficit one that's not realistic to uphold for more than a few days at most. Once you re-introduce solid foods, you're likely to regain any weight that was lost.

Ayesta also points out that you're mostly losing water weight with this strategy because drinking so much juice can cause you to urinate more often.

Dietary supplements aren't regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the FDA says that many of them do not live up to their weight-loss promises and may even contain dangerous hidden ingredients, such as chemicals contained in blood pressure medications and antidepressants.

Moreover, a 2004 review found no convincing evidence that dietary supplements help with weight loss.

Ayesta and Viana say that many of the persistent weight-loss myths stem from social media, the ever-changing realm of nutrition science, as well as the $71 billion weight loss industry, which is continually churning out new products to remain competitive.

The bottom line? If a weight-loss method sounds too easy or too good to be true, it probably is.

Weight loss is "a journey that requires patience, education, and consistency to yield
sustainable results," says Ayesta. "People don't have to follow strict rules and eliminate entire food groups simply to accomplish weight loss."

Rather than taking extreme measures, Viana advises focusing on sticking to an exercise regimen that includes both cardio and resistance training, and maintaining a diverse diet that emphasizes whole foods over processed ones.

Lastly, Ayesta says it's important to keep in mind that diets only work when they restrict calories, but the only way to keep that weight off is to make sure your dietary changes are sustainable over the long term.

Read more:
Diet and fitness experts debunk 10 glaring weight loss myths that could be sabotaging your goals - Insider - Insider

Earlier and better treatment of high blood pressure has played a key role in that decrease.

High blood pressure, also known as HBP or hypertension, is considered a silent killer. It sneaks up on you, carries no symptoms and can put you at risk for heart disease. It can also feel like it came out of nowhere.

HBP is widely misunderstood. We often assume it affects those who are type-A, tense and aggressive. But the truth is, it has nothing to do with personality traits. In fact, you can be the most relaxed, calm person and still suffer from HBP.

The reality is that HBP is a condition that makes the heart work harder than normal. The excess strain and resulting damage from HBP cause the coronary arteries serving the heart to slowly become narrowed. Narrowed arteries that are less elastic make it more difficult for the blood to travel smoothly and easily throughout your body causing your heart to work harder. In order to cope with increased demands, the heart thickens and becomes larger. While it is still able to pump blood, it becomes less efficient. The larger the heart becomes, the harder it works to meet your body's demands for oxygen and nutrients. Left untreated, HBP scars and damages your arteries and can lead to heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, eye damage, heart failure and fatty buildups in the arteries, called atherosclerosis.

Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers and a written as a ratio. Systolic, the top, higher number, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. Diastolic, the bottom, lower number, measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.

Your blood pressure rises with each heartbeat and falls when your heart relaxes between beats. While it can change from minute to minute with changes in posture, exercise, stress or sleep, it should normally be 120/80 or below for adults. HBP is 130 systolic or higher or 80 diastolic or higher that stays high over time.

Without testing for HBP, you probably won't know whether you have this condition. Regular screening can tell you what your numbers are and whether you need to take action. Regular blood pressure screenings usually start in childhood. Starting at age 18, your blood pressure should be measured at least once every two years to screen for HBP as a risk factor for heart disease. If you're between 18 and 39 and have risk factors for HBP, you'll likely be screened once a year. People age 40 and older also are given a blood pressure test annually.

Regularly check your blood pressure to ensure it is in a healthy range. And, if youre diagnosed with HBP, you should monitor your blood pressure regularly. Consider investing in a home blood pressure monitor to record your numbers regularly. Maintaining an awareness of your numbers can alert you to any changes and help you detect patterns. Tracking your results over time will also reveal if the changes youve made are working.

While there is no cure, HBP is manageable and preventable by adopting a healthy lifestyle which can keep your blood pressure in a healthy range.

Dont let high blood pressure lead to heart disease. Practice the following healthy living habits:

If you have concerns or believe you fall in a HBP category, speak with your health care provider to work together on a treatment plan. Controlling HBP can enhance your quality of life and not only reduce your risk of heart disease but also stroke, kidney disease and more.

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Crow Wing Energized: Control blood pressure for a healthy heart - Brainerd Dispatch