Thursday, July 30, 2009

Muffin Recipes

Muffin Recipes

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Fish & Seafood Recipes

Fish & Seafood Recipes

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Recipe of the Day

Sautéed Asparagus with Curry and Lemon
Submitted By: Kierstin Buchner


Preparation Time: 3 Minutes
Cooking Time: 5 Minutes
Serving Size: 4 Servings


Quickly sautéing asparagus is a great way to keep the vegetable tender-crisp. Adding curry powder gives it warmth, and the lemon juice brightens it up.

HEALTH TIP

Asparagus is high in vitamin K and folate. If you are pregnant or thinking about conceiving, try adding asparagus to your diet, as it has been shown to help prevent birth defects such as spina bifida due to its high folic acid content. Asparagus is considered a diuretic, which means it is a good anti-inflammatory, which can help relieve symptoms of arthritis, asthma rheumatism, and even water retention due to PMS.

INGREDIENTS:

1 bunch asparagus
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Juice of 1/2 lemon


PREPARATION:

Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Rinse and pat dry the asparagus. To remove the tough end, hold the stalk end of one asparagus and bend it until it snaps. Cut the ends of the rest of the asparagus to match the length of this asparagus. Cut all of the asparagus on a diagonal into 2-inch pieces. Add the asparagus and curry powder to the pan and cook for 3 – 5 minutes until they just begin to soften, but remain crisp in the center. Season with salt, pepper and lemon juice.

Serve immediately.

Fitness tip

Squat Right

Don't let good form slip when you're busting your squats. Be mindful of the following:

* Keep your eyes focused forward.
* Don't lean forward or let your heels come off the ground.
* Don't let your knees travel forward over your toes or turn inward as you lower or rise.
* Keep your belly button sucked in toward your spine as you stand back up, being careful not to arch your back.

Fitness tip

The Secret to a Better Butt

The gluteals — your butt muscles — are the largest and strongest muscles in the body. Their function is hip extension, or driving the upper legs backward. I cannot overstate how important it is to make sure these muscles are getting their workout. Activities that engage this muscle group include walking, running, jumping, and climbing. Lunges, leg lifts, and squats are all great for exercising the glutes. Here's the lowdown on some of my favorite squats.

Traditional squat (good if you're a newbie): Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with your weight on your heels. Keep your abs tight and your shoulders squarely over your hips. Sit back and down as if you were going to sit on a bench. Keep your back straight. Then stand up, straightening your legs, and repeat.

Sumo squat (good if you're a little more advanced): Place your feet as wide apart as you can and point your toes outward. Lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Hold for a beat, then exhale and press back up to the starting position. Repeat. This squat modification places a greater emphasis on the inner and outer thigh muscles.

One-legged squat (good if you're a hard-core exerciser): Stand with your weight balanced on your right leg. Lift your left foot an inch or so off the ground. Keep your head up, and don't lean forward; abs stay tight, and the right heel stays on the ground. Don't let the knee extend over the toe. Slowly lower yourself as far as you can comfortably go. Exhale and stand up straight, still balancing on the right leg. Continue for a full set on the right leg, then switch to the left leg and repeat. This modification requires tremendous balance and allows you to strengthen each leg.

Recipe of the Day

Brussels Sprouts with Walnut-Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 8 mins
Total Time: 13 mins

Nutritional Info (Per serving): 4
Calories: 108, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 188mg, Dietary Fiber: 3g, Total Fat: 7g, Carbs: 10g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Protein: 3g
Carb Choices: 0.5


Ingredients

1 pounds brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
2 tablespoon oil, walnut
1 tablespoon shallot(s), minced
1/4 teaspoon lemon zest, freshly grated
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon mustard, Dijon, or whole-grain
1/4 teaspoon salt
pepper, black ground, to taste

Preparation

1. Place brussels sprouts in a steamer basket and steam in a large saucepan over 1 inch of boiling water until tender, 7 to 8 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, whisk oil, shallot, lemon zest, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Add the sprouts to the dressing; toss to coat.

Fitness Videos: Aqua Exercise: Triceps Kickback with Flutter Kick - eDiets

Fitness Videos: Aqua Exercise: Triceps Kickback with Flutter Kick - eDiets

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eDiets Lifestyle: Lock Your Lips on These Great Glosses - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: By Royal Decree: Let Them Eat Cheesecake! - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: By Royal Decree: Let Them Eat Cheesecake! - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Ask Raphael: Get a Tighter Butt - eDiets

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Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Recipe of the Day (Good for a Healthy lunch)

Satisfy Your Family With Sizzling Steak Tacos Tonight!

Craving Mexican food? There's no need to go out for a heavy, calorie-loaded Mexican dinner. Forgo the extra fat and calories, and instead create this delicious steak taco meal for your family. It combines savory and sweet flavors and can be prepared in less than 25 minutes!

Chipotle Flank Steak Tacos With Pineapple Salsa

Ingredients

12 soft corn tortillas
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder plus 1 pinch, divided
1 teaspoon Kosher salt, divided
1 pound flank steak beef, trimmed of fat
1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch-thick rings
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1/2 cup minced red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

Preparation
1. Preheat grill to high. Stack tortillas and wrap in heavy-duty foil. Combine oil, 1 teaspoon chipotle powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small dish. Rub mixture into both sides of steak. Place the tortilla stack on the coolest part of the grill or upper warming rack, if possible, and heat, flipping once, until warmed through and very pliable.

2. Meanwhile, grill the steak for 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium, or until desired doneness. Grill pineapple rings until moderately charred, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Remove the tortillas, steak, and pineapple from the grill. Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing very thinly crosswise into strips.

3. Meanwhile, dice the pineapple and transfer to a medium bowl. Add bell pepper, onion, cilantro, vinegar, the remaining pinch of chipotle powder, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt; toss to combine. Serve the sliced steak in the warm tortillas with the pineapple salsa.

Makes 6 servings.

Fitness Videos: The Secret to Sexy Shoulders - eDiets

Fitness Videos: The Secret to Sexy Shoulders - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Eat This for a Better Sex Life - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Tweak of the Week: Easily Cut Calories - eDiets

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Recipe of the Day

Sweet Potato & Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 15 mins

Nutritional Info (Per serving): 6
Calories: 82, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 212mg, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Total Fat: 6g, Carbs: 7g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Protein: 1g
Carb Choices: 0.5

Ingredients

2 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoon oil, toasted sesame
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cup(s) potato(es), sweet, peeled, coarsely grated
3 cup(s) cabbage, napa (Chinese), or Savoy cabbage, thinly shredded
4 whole scallion(s) (green onions), trimmed and thinly sliced
1 teaspoon pepper(s), serrano chile, or jalapeno (with seeds), finely minced

Preparation

Whisk canola oil, lime juice, sesame oil and salt in a large bowl. Add sweet potato, cabbage, scallions and serrano (or jalapeno), if using; toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Fitness tip

The Benefits of a Personal Trainer
A personal trainer can help you make the most of your exercise routine.

By Diana Rodriguez
Medically reviewed by Kevin O. Hwang, MD, MPH

If you're having a hard time getting motivated at the health club, or just don't feel like you're getting enough out of your exercise routine, consider hiring a personal trainer. More than just an instructor, a personal trainer can help you come up with the right workout plan to meet your goals. Whether it's losing a few pounds, toning up your arms, or flattening your stomach for swimsuit season, a personal trainer can help you get there.

How a Personal Trainer Can Help

Hiring a personal trainer means both a financial commitment and a time commitment to your health and fitness. A personal trainer can help you:

Get started. A personal trainer can guide you down the path to fitness by creating a specific exercise routine for you.

Learn proper technique and form. If you're not doing exercises the right way, it can lead to injury that can sideline you. By doing them right, you're staying safe and also getting the maximum benefit from your workout.

Achieve your goals. If you've always wanted to lose that last 20 pounds, tone up your body, or just be a healthier person, but you haven't quite been able to get there on your own, a personal trainer can help keep you on track.

Even a few sessions with a personal trainer can be worthwhile. "Everyone can benefit from education and different points of view,” says Jody Swimmer, an exercise specialist and owner of Fitness on Frankfort in Louisville, Ky.

The Personal Trainer: Finding the Best Trainer for You

If you think a personal trainer might be beneficial, keep these things in mind when searching for someone who fits your needs:

Try out a trainer. "If you're a member of a gym, ask for a list of trainers, and ask what their education and experiences are, and then watch them. Or just buy one session and get a feel for their personality and skills," says Swimmer.

Look for qualifications and style. You want a personal trainer who is educated and certified by a reputable organization, such as the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise. Beyond certification, you want to make sure that the trainer is a good fit for you and your workout style.

Search online. Many organizations that certify personal trainers have Web sites that allow you to search for such a trainer in your area. This may be a good place to start if you don’t belong to a gym.

Ask yourself how well they teach. A personal trainer should do more than just give you exercises to do. "From a one-on-one personal training experience, it should be all about you, your needs, and special issues you're dealing with," Swimmer says. "Your trainer shouldn't be someone to just lead you through exercises; they should be teaching you these exercises."

Personal training offers benefits, but at a price. On top of a gym membership, an hour of personal training can run from $20 to $100. On average, expect to pay around $50 for an hour of personal training.

So if it's worth the cost and you find a personal trainer you like, try some sessions to start getting yourself into shape. Take a few to get you started, and maybe a few refreshers every now and then to make sure you're getting the most out of your workouts.

This section created and produced exclusively by the editorial staff of EverydayHealth.com. © 2009 EverydayHealth.com; all rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Recipe of the Day

Gratin of Zucchini & Tomatoes Recipe

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins

Nutritional Info (Per serving): 4
Calories: 302, Saturated Fat: 3g, Sodium: 514mg, Dietary Fiber: 7g, Total Fat: 15g, Carbs: 31g, Cholesterol: 7mg, Protein: 12g
Carb Choices: 1.5


Ingredients

3 clove(s) garlic, crushed
2/3 cup(s) basil, fresh, leaves
1 teaspoon thyme, fresh, leaves
2 cup(s) bread crumbs, soft whole-wheat, divided
1/2 cup(s) onion(s), sweet, (such as Vidalia) finely chopped
3 large tomato(es), diced
1 tablespoon vinegar, red wine
1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
3 tablespoon oil, olive, extra virgin, divided
3 medium zucchini, medium, (about 1.75 pounds) sliced on the bias about 1/4 inch thick
3/4 cup(s) cheese, grated Parmesan
pepper, black ground, to taste

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a 9-by-13-inch baking dish (or similar gratin dish) with cooking spray.

2. Place garlic, basil and thyme on your chopping board; mince well. Spread half the breadcrumbs evenly in the prepared baking dish. Strew onion over the breadcrumbs. Distribute half the diced tomato over the onion, then sprinkle with half the garlic-herb mixture. Sprinkle with vinegar and 1/8 teaspoon salt.

3. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a third of the zucchini; you want it to sauté, not stew, so don't crowd it. Sauté, turning the pieces once, until golden and not quite tender, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes per side. When the slices are done, use a fork to transfer them to the gratin, overlapping the slices.

4. Cook the remaining zucchini in two batches, each time using 2 teaspoons oil. Strew the remaining tomatoes and garlic-herb mixture over the zucchini. Season with the remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt and a grinding of pepper. Toss the remaining 1 cup breadcrumbs with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and sprinkle over the gratin.

5. Bake the gratin until bubbly hot, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with Parmesan.

Beauty Info

Is Retin-A the Fountain of Youth?
Learn the latest on this anti-wrinkle cream and how it can work for you.

By Linda Foster, MA
Medically reviewed by Christine Wilmsen Craig, MD

The search for a “fountain of youth” has been the stuff of movies, books, carnival-show medicine men and countless other forums. Nevertheless, some now say that tretinoin (Retin-A is a leading example) could end that pursuit in real life.

“Retin-A is undeniably the best topical cream available to reverse sun damage and rejuvenate your skin,” says Scott Gerrish, MD, a nonsurgical skin care specialist with offices in Virginia and Maryland. Retin-A was first used to treat acne 30 years ago. When acne users found that Retin-A smoothed and enhanced their skin’s appearance, researchers began looking for the anti-aging properties of Retin-A.

June Breiner, MD, an internist in Lutherville, Md., prescribed Retin-A to patient Roger C. Miller two years ago to treat age spots and wrinkles. “The cream works miracles,” Miller says. “The brown spots on my face are gone and my skin is much smoother. Friends say I look 10 to 15 years younger.”

What is Retin-A and How Does It Work?

Retin-A comes from vitamin A and works at the cellular level to improve your skin's health and appearance. It comes in several strengths; your doctor will tell you what is best for your skin. You can get Retin-A as a generic prescription (tretinoin), and it goes by brand names such as Renova, Retin-A Micro, Tazorac, and others. You cannot get any Retin-A product without a prescription.

Dr. Gerrish explains how Retin-A works:

* It increases skin-cell turnover.
* It thickens the layer of skin below the outer protective layer.
* It stimulates the cells that produce collagen (the elastic fibrous structure that gives skin its firmness).
* It increases the blood flow to your skin.

All of the above mean fewer wrinkles, smoother skin, lessened pigmentation (discolorations), tighter pores, and a reduction of sun damage. Gerrish and Dr. Breiner caution that Retin-A’s over-the-counter competition — products with retinol — are not potent enough to make a noticeable difference in your skin’s appearance and can be just as expensive as Retin-A..

How Do You Use Retin-A?

At night, gently wash your face with a mild cleanser, one that is pH-balanced for your skin (pH is a measure of acidity and alkalinity; a pH of 6 to 7 matches your skin’s pH, so you do not disturb its slightly acidic, protective surface layer). Make sure your face is dry before applying Retin-A. A pea-size amount is enough for your entire face. Dot it on your cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin, then spread the cream over your face, avoiding the corners of your mouth, eyes and the crease under each nostril.

In the morning, wash your face and apply a moisturizer with sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Make sure the moisturizer is non-comedogenic (does not clog pores). Use Retin-A five times a week to start. After six weeks of use, you should see a noticeable difference in the smoothness of your skin, as well as a lessening of wrinkles and age spots. After a few months and a follow-up visit with your physician, it is recommended that you use Retin-A two to three times a week for maintenance.

Retin-A: What Are the Cons?

Retin-A has a few potential downsides:It can cause some initial irritation to your skin, Miller says, that goes away during the first several weeks of use. The amount of irritation depends on your skin’s sensitivity and the strength of your prescription. Your skin’s sensitivity may be the most important cause of unwanted side effects.

You can have some acne during the first two to four weeks, which could just mean that the Retin-A is working. Blackheads are dislodged after two or three weeks and acne may develop, but stick with your regime and your skin will clear up. You could also have some redness and peeling. Call your doctor if you experience severe irritation.
While using Retin-A, your skin will be more sensitive to the sun so you should use a good sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) daily.

If your skin is sunburned, windburned, irritated, or wounded, do not use Retin-A until it has healed. If you have eczema or another skin condition, wait until affected areas have healed before using Retin-A.

Do not use Retin-A if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Cost is something to consider. Gerrish and Breiner note that Retin-A is not as expensive as some department store creams that are often little more than moisturizers. The price for Retin-A can vary from $50 online from Canadian pharmacies to $100-plus from local ones. The prescription is usually in a 45-gram tube that lasts four to six months.

Retin-A is not covered by insurance unless you have a prescription to treat acne.
Despite the cons of using Retin-A, Gerrish and Breiner agree with Miller, who was emphatic: “Retin-A dramatically reduced the wrinkles and age spots on my 60-year-old face, and I will continue using it because it works.”

Fitness tip

Start Smart: Beginning an Exercise Program

A regular physical exercise program can lower your risk of heart disease and some cancers, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And exercise can also improve your mental health and help prevent early death. In other words, exercise can help you live a longer and healthier life. So what are you waiting for?

Your Exercise Program: Key Components

If you’ve never followed an exercise program before, it's best to start gradually. Three types of exercise should be included in a complete exercise program: aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility training.

* Aerobic exercise. This is exercise that uses large muscle groups, is repetitive, and lasts long enough to get your heart and lungs working harder than usual.

* Strength training. Designed to build muscle and increase strength, these exercises target muscle groups in the arms, legs, chest, and stomach, using free weights, weight machines, push-ups, or sit-ups.

* Flexibility training. Stretching and range of motion exercises both work to increase flexibility. For older women, this type of exercise is integral to staying limber and for preventing stiffness.

Recipe of the Day

Cuban-Style Pork & Rice Recipe

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 h
Total Time: 1 h 10 mins

Nutritional Info (Per serving): 10
Calories: 257, Saturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 257mg, Dietary Fiber: 5g, Total Fat: 9g, Carbs: 26g, Cholesterol: 40mg, Protein: 19g
Carb Choices: 1.5


Ingredients

1/4 cup(s) paprika
1/4 cup(s) lime juice
3 tablespoon oil, olive, extra virgin, divided
2 tablespoon rum, optional
2 teaspoon garlic, minced, minced, plus 2 tablespoons chopped, divided
2 teaspoon oregano, fresh, chopped
1 teaspoon salt, Kosher
1 teaspoon pepper, black ground
1/2 teaspoon cumin, ground
1 1/2 pounds pork, boneless loin chops, trimmed, cut into cubes
2 cup(s) onion(s), chopped
2 cup(s) rice, arborio, or short-grain brown rice
28 ounce(s) broth, reduced-sodium chicken, 2 14-ounce cans
1 cup(s) tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoon capers, rinsed
1/4 teaspoon saffron, strands
16 large shrimp, raw, (21-25/pound)peeled and deveined (optional)
2 cup(s) artichoke hearts, frozen, thawed (or cooked green beans, fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/2 cup(s) pepper(s), red sweet, roasted, cut into strips

Preparation

1. Combine paprika, lime juice, 2 tablespoons oil, rum (if using), 2 teaspoons minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper and cumin in a medium bowl, stirring to make a homogeneous paste. Add pork and stir to coat.

2. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork, leaving any excess spice mixture in the bowl to add later. Cook the pork, stirring, until just cooked on the outside and the spices are very fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the pork to a plate.

3. Add onion and the remaining 2 tablespoons garlic to the pan and cook, stirring often, until the onion is softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Add rice and cook, stirring, until well coated with the onion mixture. Stir in broth, tomatoes, capers, saffron and any remaining spice mixture. (If using brown rice, also add 3/4 cup water now.) Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer; cook, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes for arborio, 30 minutes for brown rice.

4. Preheat oven to 350°F.

5. Stir shrimp (if using) and artichokes (or green beans) into the rice. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Stir in the pork and any accumulated juices from the plate; scatter roasted peppers on top.

6. Cover and continue baking until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed (if you’ve added shrimp, they should be opaque and pink), 10 to 15 minutes more.

Diet & Fitness Blog: 7 Secrets of Great Grilling - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: 7 Secrets of Great Grilling - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: 8 Frozen Treats Under 100 Calories - eDiets

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Monday, July 27, 2009

FYI

2 Tips for Staying Slim and Centered This Summer

Summer is in full force and that means market fresh produce and long, light-filled days. As you work to stay fit this summer, here are two tips to encourage you to take great care of yourself. The full list of 7 tips is available in the Healthy Meals to Stay Slim and Centered eBook, to help you stay trim for summer while nourishing your mind, body, and spirit.


1. Eat More Whole Foods - These means staying away from processed and packaged foods. Eat more foods in their natural state. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and beans are all whole foods.

If you eat a diet rich in a variety of whole foods in all the colors of the rainbow, your heart, spirit, and waistline will thank you. Stick to the outside aisles at the grocery store, and stay clear of the inside aisles that house junk foods.

2. Don't Skip Breakfast - Eating breakfast is important to get your day started and keep your metabolism in check. This does not mean you should eat doughnuts for breakfast! Stick to whole foods like whole grains, fruits or fruit smoothies. You may feel hungry again too soon before lunch, but after eating a healthier diet your body and stomach will adjust and feel satisfied with less food. Have some nuts, fruit, or raw veggies if you need a snack before lunch or dinner.

Be patient and gentle with yourself.

Diet & Fitness Blog: Ask Raphael: Get a Tighter Butt - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Ask Raphael: Get a Tighter Butt - eDiets

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Fitness Videos: Leg Extensions - eDiets

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eDiets Lifestyle: Career Classics: Clothes to Inspire Success and Awe at the Office - eDiets

eDiets Lifestyle: Career Classics: Clothes to Inspire Success and Awe at the Office - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Build-A-Meal: Healthy Eating Made Easy - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Build-A-Meal: Healthy Eating Made Easy - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Fast Food Survival Guide: A Leaner Lunch - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Fast Food Survival Guide: A Leaner Lunch - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Tweak of the Week: Boost Your Metabolism - eDiets

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Recipe of the Day

Quick Breakfast Taco Recipe

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 2 mins
Total Time: 7 mins

Nutritional Info (Per serving): 1
Calories: 153, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 453mg, Dietary Fiber: 0g, Total Fat: 2g, Carbs: 15g, Cholesterol: 3mg, Protein: 17g
Carb Choices: 1

Ingredients

2 small tortilla(s), corn
1 tablespoon salsa
2 tablespoon cheese, cheddar, sharp, reduced-fat, shredded
1 dash(es) cooking spray, to coat skillet
1/2 cup(s) egg substitute

Preparation
1. Top tortillas with salsa and cheese. Heat in the microwave until the cheese is melted, about 30 seconds.

2. Meanwhile coat a small nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium heat, add egg substitute and cook, stirring, until the eggs are cooked through, about 90 seconds.

3. Divide the scrambled egg between the tacos.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Fitness Videos: Plie Squat - eDiets

Fitness Videos: Plie Squat - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Flip-Flops: Hazardous to Your Health? - eDiets

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eDiets Lifestyle: Happy Hour Survival Guide - eDiets

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Health & Fitness Blog for Men: Sizzling Sex in 30 Days - eDiets

Health & Fitness Blog for Men: Sizzling Sex in 30 Days - eDiets

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Friday, July 24, 2009

Fitness tip

PREVENT WEIGHT GAIN FOR LIFE

Set your watch - 40 minutes of exercise a day may be the magic number for staying slim, report University of Pittsburgh researchers. In a study of more than 200 women who had successfully completed a weight loss program, those who continued to exercise enough to burn about 1,835 calories a week were most likely to have kept the pounds off 2 years later. You can hit that number with 40 minutes of brisk walking a day, say researchers.

Health & nutrition tip

QUICK SLIM-DOWN TIPS

*Steam your hot chocolate with fat-free milk instead of whole and save 60 calories per cup.

*Swap mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower. You'll save 98 calories per 1/2cup.

*Sip tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder instead of the creamy New England variety. For each cup, you'll save 84 calories.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

eDiets Lifestyle: Want Long Fingernails? 5 Fast Repair Tips - eDiets

eDiets Lifestyle: Want Long Fingernails? 5 Fast Repair Tips - eDiets

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Health News Blog: Eat 'n Lose: 10 Fat-Burning Foods! - eDiets

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If you are trying to lose weight, then you need to read this article.

Recipe of the Day

Tuscan White Bean and Escarole Soup
Submitted By: Kierstin Buchner

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Cooking Time: 30 Minutes
Serving Size: 4-6 Servings

HEALTHY TIP:

Cannellini beans, sometimes also known as Tuscan White Beans, are loaded with nutrients your body needs. They help reduce cholesterol, prevent headaches and give you energy to spare. These beans are low in fat, high in fiber and provide a high quality of magnesium, fiber, iron and folate. They contain twice as much iron as beef. Maintaining high iron stores ensures a stable supply of hemoglobin. This carries energizing oxygen to every cell in the body, giving you energy to spare! Cannellini beans are a good source of molybdenum, which is a trace mineral that helps the body produce detoxifying enzymes. This prevents headaches that are caused by sulfites, a compound used to preserve baked goods, wine and various things. They help lower cholesterol because the high fiber content binds with fat to help flush it from the body. They are also loaded with folate, which helps lower levels homocysteine, which clogs arteries.

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced 1 stalk celery, sliced diagonally into 1/2 inch pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes, including juice
1 can Tuscan white beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable stock
2 cups water
3 cups escarole, cut width-wise into 1/2 inch strips
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 rind Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, for garnish
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, for garnish


PREPARATION:

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, salt and pepper and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add the tomatoes, beans, vegetable stock, water, escarole, thyme, rosemary and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to simmer for 30 minutes. Taste and make any final adjustments to seasoning.

To serve, ladle into bowls, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Fitness & Health tip

Know the Warning Signs

What can happen if you get too dehydrated or exert yourself in the heat too long? Here are some possibilities, from the least to the most severe:

* Heat cramps — muscle pain or spasms
* Heat exhaustion — a state of elevated body temperature that's a precursor to heatstroke
* Heatstroke — a life-threatening condition in which your body temperature rises above 106°F

If you experience muscle cramping, dizziness, fast and shallow breathing, cold and clammy skin, or nausea or vomiting, get out of the heat immediately and get some water. Heat-related illnesses are no joke, so don't take any chances!

Fitness & Health tip

5 Tips for Beating the Heat

Summer is in full swing and the mercury is rising. When you're exercising or playing outdoors, it's important that you take care to keep yourself cool. My fitness plan is tough enough — you don't need to add heatstroke to the equation! Follow these tips to make sure you stay safe in hot or humid weather.

Time it right. The hottest part of the day usually falls between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Do your workout early in the morning or in the evening, when the sun isn't directly overhead and the temperature is a little cooler.

Dress for the weather. Your body cools itself in part by perspiring. You'll help the process if you wear lightweight, somewhat loose-fitting clothing that allows the sweat to evaporate from your skin. Choose lighter colors because they won't absorb as much heat from the sun, and consider a hat or a visor to keep the sun out of your eyes.

Wear sunscreen. The last thing you want is a sunburn — it'll keep your skin from cooling off and sap precious fluids. Choose a sunscreen free of oxybenzone, a chemical that has been linked to hormone disruption. Use Skin Deep, the Environmental Working Group's cosmetics database, to see if your sunscreen is safe, and apply it at least 30 minutes before you head outside.

Drink lots of water. Sweating can dehydrate you very quickly, so it's important to keep drinking water. Drink 4 to 8 ounces every 15 minutes while you work out. If you exercise for more than an hour, you may need a sports drink or a snack to replace the salt and other electrolytes you lose as you sweat.

Watch your heart rate. In reaction to heat, your body increases blood flow to your skin in an effort to cool you off. The result is less blood for your muscles and an elevated heart rate. If you're not used to working out in the heat, you might find that you'll reach your target heart rate with less intense exercise than usual. Take it slow at first, and gradually increase your intensity.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Healthy recipes

Two Easy Side Dishes for Busy Nights

This week you get a twofer — a pair of incredibly easy and tasty vegetable side dishes. Pair one of these with some organic rotisserie chicken from the deli counter or a nice piece of grilled fish and you've got a sensationally healthy meal.


Roasted Broccoli With Lemon

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 dash freshly ground black pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Preparation

Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss broccoli with oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a large baking sheet (not air-insulated) and roast until the broccoli is tender and blackened on the bottom, 10 to 12 minutes. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges.

Makes 4 servings.


Orange-Infused Roasted Green Beans and Red Peppers

Ingredients

1 pound green beans, trimmed
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

Preparation

Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss green beans, bell pepper, and oil in a large bowl. Add orange zest, salt, and crushed red pepper to taste; toss to combine. Spread on a large baking sheet. Roast the vegetables, turning once halfway through cooking, until tender and slightly wilted, about 15 minutes.

Makes 4 servings

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Fitness Videos: Fitball Prone Trunk Extension - eDiets

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Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Quiz: How Exciting are You in Bed?

Quiz: How Exciting are You in Bed?

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Turkey Enchiladas Recipe

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Hairstyle Gallery: Short Hair

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Butt Lift

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Fitness Videos: The Secret to Sexy Shoulders - eDiets

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Monday, July 20, 2009

Fitness Videos: Exercise Class - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Cheat and Still Reach Your Goals! - eDiets

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eDiets Lifestyle: 5 Simple Things to Help Your Hair - eDiets

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Thursday, July 16, 2009

Health & Fitness Blog for Men: Hall of Shame: Diner Disasters - eDiets

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Wednesday, July 15, 2009

The Chair Workout

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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

6 Ways to Score Free Beauty Products

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Monday, July 13, 2009

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Recipe of the Day

Chickpea Burgers & Tahini Sauce Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins

4 Servings
Quick Meal
Contains Nuts
Contains Wheat/Gluten
Contains Dairy
Contains Egg
Vegetarian


Nutritional Info (Per serving):
Calories: 399, Saturated Fat: 3g, Sodium: 743mg, Dietary Fiber: 9g, Total Fat: 15g, Carbs: 55g, Cholesterol: 55mg, Protein: 15g
Carb Choices: 3

Ingredients
1 can(s) beans, garbanzo (chickpeas), 19-ounce can, rinsed
4 whole scallion(s) (green onions), trimmed and sliced
1 large egg(s)
2 tablespoon flour, all-purpose
1 tablespoon oregano, fresh, chopped
1/2 teaspoon cumin, ground
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 whole pita, whole-wheat, 6 1/2-inch, halved, warmed if desired
1/2 cup(s) yogurt, low-fat plain
2 tablespoon tahini (sesame seed paste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/3 cup(s) parsley, flat-leaf, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

To prepare burgers:

1. Place chickpeas, scallions, egg, flour, oregano, cumin and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor. Pulse, stopping once or twice to scrape down the sides, until a coarse mixture forms that holds together when pressed. (The mixture will be moist.) Form into 4 patties.


2. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook until golden and beginning to crisp, 4 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip and cook until golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes more.

To prepare sauce & serve:

3. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, parsley and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Divide the patties among the pitas and serve with the sauce.

Nutrition

Eating Right for Exercise
Using a simple, well-balanced diet formula, you can figure out what to eat and when so you have the energy you need to exercise.

By Barbara Robb, MA
Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH

You need energy to exercise and energy comes from food. Make sure you've eaten adequately before any fitness activity and eat to refuel afterwards, says Sue Travis, RD, PhD, of the division of nutritional sciences at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y.

Fitness Food: The Right Diet for Exercise

The amount of food a person needs will varies with age, sex, weight, and activity level. The rate at which you burn calories depends not only on the type of exercise you do, but also on how vigorously you do it.

Travis emphasizes that it’s important to divide your calories between carbohydrates, protein, and fat:

Carbohydrates. Carbohydrates — sugars and starches — are broken down by the body into glucose, which muscles use for energy. Excess carbs are stored in the liver and tissues as glycogen and released as needed. It’s glycogen that provides the energy for high-intensity exercise and prolonged endurance. Some good sources of carbohydrates are whole grain breads and cereals, fruit, vegetables, pasta, and rice.
Protein. Protein should be part of each of your major meals because it will help slow absorption of carbohydrates. Fish, eggs, chicken, meat, and beans are excellent sources of protein, and 3 ounces per meal is enough.
Fat. You need some fat in your diet, too, says Travis. Low-fat dairy products, like 1 percent milk, and lean cuts of meat will give you the fat your body needs.
Try to have a combination of items from all three of these food groups at each of your major meals, says Travis. For a healthy breakfast, have a high-fiber cereal (either oatmeal or another whole-grain cereal), a low-fat dairy product, and fruit or a glass of juice. The easiest lunch might be a sandwich made with lean meat, poultry, or fish on whole-grain bread, with raw veggies and fruit served on the side. Protein and energy bars can be useful, but don't use them as a meal replacement, warns Travis. Look for bars with at least 10 grams of protein and some carbohydrates, rather than products with a high protein content and hardly any carbohydrates.

Fitness Food: Timing Meals and Snacks

If you exercise in the morning and don’t have something to eat first, you can use up all of your stored energy. If you'd rather not have breakfast before you exercise, try eating a small piece of fruit.

If you’re planning a strenuous workout, eat a meal high in carbohydrates at least three to four hours beforehand. Choose foods that are easily digested. Travis suggests that you experiment with different foods to see what gives you the most energy.

Fitness Food: Factor in Fluids

It’s particularly important to drink fluids before, during, and after exercising. If you exercise strenuously, try to drink fluids even if you’re not thirsty.

Water is a good choice for most activities. If you exercise continuously for 90 minutes or more, you might benefit from a sports drink that contains electrolytes and carbohydrates. But sports drinks are designed for people who are doing endurance activities for prolonged periods. They probably aren’t necessary for the average person.

Caffeine is dehydrating. Travis suggests that you drink an equal volume of water if you drink coffee or another caffeinated beverage.

The bottom line on fueling for exercise? If you drink plenty of fluids and eat regular meals that include carbohydrates, protein, and fat, you should have all the energy you need for your workout plan.

Friday, July 10, 2009

FYI

A Natural Antidepressant

Not convinced that those dead lifts can lift your mood? Check this out: A growing body of research suggests that exercise can relieve symptoms of depression, including sadness, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger, self-doubt, and hopelessness. It's unclear exactly why, but researchers think that exercise's effect on endorphins and other mood-lifting neurotransmitters may be at play. Exercise also lowers your levels of the stress hormone cortisol and helps you to sleep better. Okay, I think that's enough reasons to work out — now get to the gym and start feeling better!

Recipe of the Day

Lentil & Almond Burgers Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Rest Time: 1 h 10 mins
Total Time: 2 h 10 mins

5 Servings
Contains Nuts
Contains Egg
Vegetarian
GERD-Friendly
Heart-Healthy
Diabetes-Friendly


Nutritional Info (Per serving):
Calories: 228, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 276mg, Dietary Fiber: 7g, Total Fat: 9g, Carbs: 27g, Cholesterol: 41mg, Protein: 11g, Carb Choices: 1.5

Ingredients
6 cup(s) water
1 cup(s) lentils, brown, or green French lentils
2 tablespoon oil, olive, extra virgin, divided
3/4 cup(s) carrot(s), finely chopped
1/3 cup(s) shallot(s), finely chopped
1/3 cup(s) celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup(s) nuts, almonds, sliced
1 teaspoon thyme, fresh, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper, black ground
1 large egg yolk(s), lightly beaten
1 tablespoon lemon juice


Preparation

1. Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan. Stir in lentils, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until very tender and beginning to break down, about 25 minutes for brown lentils or 30 minutes for green lentils. Drain in a fine-mesh sieve.

2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add carrot, shallots and celery and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add almonds, thyme, salt and pepper; continue cooking until the almonds are lightly browned, about 2 minutes.

3. Transfer the mixture to a food processor; add 1 cup of the cooked lentils. Pulse several times, scraping down the sides once or twice, until the mixture is coarsely ground.

4. Transfer to a large bowl; stir in the remaining lentils. Let cool for 10 minutes. Mix in egg yolk and lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.


5. Form the lentil mixture into 5 patties. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet, preferably cast-iron, over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Turn gently and continue to cook until lightly browned and heated through, 3 to 4 minutes more. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Meatless Burgers, Hot Dogs Not Always Full of Veggies

Not all vegetarian burgers and hot dogs are alike. It seems that some, in fact, may not offer much at all in the way of vegetables.

"Arguably, if food doesn't taste good, people are less likely to eat it even if it does wear an impressive nutrition label," registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, said in a news release from the organization. "While some veggie burgers are meant to look and taste 'like meat,' many popular brands have visible chunks of vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots and peppers, suggesting that satisfying meatless fare may not depend entirely on a successful imitation."

So before tossing some on the grill this summer, the association advises, read the labels and know the facts:

Veggie burgers with 10 grams of protein or less tend to contain more vegetables and whole grains than those with more protein, which often are made of mostly soy protein and wheat gluten.

Nutritionally speaking, veggie hot dogs tend to have many advantages over traditional frankfurters, such as fewer calories, less fat, less sodium and more protein.

Though veggie burgers contain far less fat and more fiber than beef or turkey burgers, they tend to contain much more sodium -- an average of 350 milligrams, or 15 percent of the recommended daily amount.

Just because a brand is vegan-friendly (meaning it's made without such animal products as eggs and cheese), it doesn't necessarily contain more vegetables.

Meatless burgers and hot dogs can be bad for people with certain food allergies. Most contain soy and wheat, and many others contain eggs, dairy and nuts.

Some meatless burgers or hot dogs tend to fall apart on the grill so use cooking spray on them and cook over low-medium heat but not over a direct flame, which could dry them out. Baking or broiling in an oven or toaster oven, microwaving or heating in a skillet might prove better cooking options with some brands of meatless burgers and hot dogs.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Recipe of the Day

French Country Salad With Nicoise Olive Dressing
Submitted By: Kierstin Buchner

Preparation Time: 10
Cooking Time: 20 Minutes
Serving Size: 4 Servings


This country salad makes a complete meal, and contains fresh lettuce, crisp baby green beans, healthy red potatoes, juicy tomatoes, protein rich eggs, tangy capers, and a flavorful olive dressing. It is also full of fiber, protein, antioxidants and flavonoids to help protect against disease.

Recipe Ingredients:
4 free range organic eggs
1 cup baby red potatoes, halved
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup fresh baby green beans, stalk end trimmed
1 teaspoon salt
1 head butter lettuce, washed, dried, and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tomato, cut into wedges
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained

Dressing
2 tablespoons nicoise olives, pitted
1 teaspoon shallots, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Preparation
In a small pot, gently place the eggs, cover with cold water, and place over high heat. When the pot comes to a boil, cover, remove from heat, and let eggs sit for exactly 15 minutes. Then drain and let sit for a few minutes in cold, running water. Drain and set aside. When ready to serve, peel and rinse the eggs to remove any traces of shell. Cut eggs in half.

In another small pot, place the baby red potatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cover with cold water and place over high heat. When the pot begins to boil, reduce heat to simmer, and cook until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 10 – 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water and set aside. Fill a small pot with cold water and one teaspoon of salt, and place over high heat. When the water is boiling, add the green beans and cook for 1 minute. Drain and add to ice water. Let sit for a few minutes to stop the cooking and set the bright green color. Drain and set aside.

To make the dressing, add all dressing ingredients to a blender except for the olive oil. Pulse the blender a few times. Then, while the blender is running continuously, stream in the olive oil.

To assemble the salads, divide evenly among 4 plates or shallow bowls the lettuce, eggs, potatoes, green beans, tomato, red onion and capers. Drizzle with the nicoise dressing and serve immediately.

Fitness tip

How Much to Exercise Each Day

You may have heard the U.S. Surgeon General's recommendation of 30 minutes of physical activity a day. This is intended for people who want to maintain the most basic level of fitness — but not for people who want to lose weight. In a week, 30 minutes a day works out to an expenditure of about 1,000 calories, which is fine if you are looking to maintain your current weight. But if you want to lose, you're going to have to be prepared for a bit more work.

I much prefer the World Health Organization's recommendation of 60 minutes at a time as a starting point for my clients — an hour is ideal to get the most out of your workout and see significant results. Your 60-minute workout sessions should always include a 5-minute warm-up, followed by 50 minutes of your primary cardio or strength-training exercises, followed by at least 5 minutes of cooling down and stretching.

Of course, putting in more time will get you more results — but there's a limit. Excessive intense physical activity releases stress hormones, such as cortisol, into the body. This can actually inhibit weight loss, causing your body to react by storing fat and retaining water out of self-protection. So, to reach your goal, I recommend limiting intense exercise to no more than two hours a session.

Diet & Fitness Blog: I'm Not Giving Up My Red Wine! - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: I'm Not Giving Up My Red Wine! - eDiets

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Wednesday, July 8, 2009

10 Miracle-Working Skin-Care Tricks Beauty: glamour.com

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6 "Healthy" summer foods that really aren't

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Nutritional tip

6 Summer Fruits to Put on Your "A List"

Strawberries
Who knew that such a small fruit could pack such a punch! Strawberries are the favorite berry across the globe and span more than 600 varieties. They are very high in vitamin C and manganese. What you might not have known is that they are also high in phytonutrients like phenols that protect your heart and body against cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.


Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe gets an A+ from us because it is packed full of vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It comes from the same family as the pumpkin and squash, which all give your diet good quality sweet taste that help maintain blood sugar levels. Melons of all sorts have a very high water content making them the perfect summer snack. Be sure to eat melon alone and at least an hour before or after eating other food because it is known to fermentate with other foods in the stomach.


Lemons
Lemons are full of vitamins and minerals, but most importantly they contain many health and healing properties. They are high in alkalinity and can be used to help ease stomach pains, help you body retain calcium, and kill off germs and destroy microbes. It's great to have a cup of hot water and lemon before a meal to get your digestive juices working.


Peaches
The peach originates from China and comes in many varieties. They are full of vitamins A and C and are quite detoxifying. Peaches are considered a diuretic, which make them a great addition to a weight-loss program. They also have an anti-inflammatory agent that has been proven to help reduce asthma instances.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are high in antioxidants and vitamins. They contain lycopene, which is an antioxidant that helps combat all types of cancer. Remember to go organic and pick tomatoes that have the brightest shade of red for the highest lycopene and beta-carotene content. Cooking the tomatoes releases their healing power even more than eating them raw.


Avocados
Avocados have been given a bad rap because of their high fat content, but this type of fat found in avocados is the "good" fat that can help protect your heart and lower bad LDL cholesterol. Getting good quality Monounsaturated fat in your diet will help you feel satiated longer and speeds up your basal metabolic rate.

Recipe of the Day

A Quick and Easy Weeknight Supper

Tilapia, a relatively plentiful fish, has the unfortunate reputation of being dull. All it needs is a spice rub, a familiar barbecuing technique that works just as well indoors. You could also use this rub on chicken breasts or toss it with lightly oiled shrimp before cooking.

Chili-Rubbed Tilapia With Asparagus and Lemon

Ingredients:

2 pounds asparagus, tough ends trimmed, cut into 1" pieces
2 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
1 pound fish, tilapia, Pacific sole, or other firm white-fish fillet
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice

Preparation

Bring an inch of water to a boil in a large saucepan. Put asparagus in a steamer basket, place in the pan, cover, and steam until tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a large plate, spreading out to cool.
Combine chili powder, garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt on a plate. Dredge fillets in the spice mixture to coat. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish and cook until just opaque in the center, gently turning halfway, 5 to 7 minutes total.

Divide among 4 plates. Immediately add lemon juice, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and asparagus to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, until the asparagus is coated and heated through, about 2 minutes. Serve the asparagus with the fish.

Makes 4 servings.

Health & Fitness Blog for Men: Hall of Shame: Killer Food Concoctions - eDiets

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Fitness tip

Seven Deadly Workout Sins to Avoid This Summer
By eDiets Staff

Exercise is the best thing for your health regardless of your age, level of fitness or goals. However, it can also be dangerous if you don't avoid some common mistakes and take the proper precautions. Engaging in an exercise program with little foresight and planning can lead to burnout, frustration, injury and although rarely, death. Now that wouldn't make for a fun summer, would it?

If you want to maximize your workout and look your best this summer season, it is going to take a combination of motivation and the correct information. Heed the following seven deadly workout sins:

1. Skipping the warm-up. Doing too much too quickly will send your heart rate soaring and put unprepared muscles and joints at a high risk for injury. For beginners, rapid increases in heart rates can lead to light headedness, nausea, dizziness, fainting or ultimately heart attacks and stroke. Muscles need time to adjust to the demands placed on them during exercise. Before hitting the weight room or jumping into your regular cardio workout, you should take a few minutes to gently prepare the body for heavier activity by walking slowly, for example.

2. Jumping into the sauna or hot tub immediately following a workout.The temperatures of saunas and hot tubs can be detrimental to a body that already has an elevated temperature and blood vessels dilated from activity. Your body needs to dissipate heat in order to bring your heart rate back to a resting zone and re-circulate blood back to your organs. High temperatures in hot tubs and saunas will cause lightheadedness, dizziness, fatigue, nausea or worse -- heat exhaustion, heat stroke and heart attacks. Instead, try a cool shower or allow your heart rate to return to resting levels before getting into the saunas and tubs.

3. Holding your breath while lifting weights. Holding one's breath during weightlifting increases blood pressure significantly, possibly leading to lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, hernia, heart attack or stroke. To avoid creating high internal pressures, inhale and exhale with each exercise phase of a repetition and breath naturally during cardiovascular activity.

4. Not having a physical prior to beginning an exercise program. You want to have the most benefit with the least amount of risk; it would never be wrong for you to get a complete check up prior to beginning activity -- especially if you are older than 45 or have other risk factors like smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol or a positive family history. If you have two of the above criteria, you are considered to be at risk for heart disease, diabetes or stroke. While exercise is the best thing for your condition, beginning a program without the proper guidelines can do you more harm than good.

5. Exercising above their determined heart rate range. Continually pushing your heart rates to the maximal limits during your cardiovascular workouts is overstressing your heart and lungs unnecessarily. When your heart rate is up to maximal loads, there is a greater chance for irregular heart rhythms. You do not need to place such high demands on your heart to see cardiovascular benefits or to burn fat.

6. Using hand or ankle weights while walking or during aerobic classes. Many fitness guidelines indicate that the use of hand weights during the aerobic portion of step training produces little if any increase in energy expenditure or muscle strength. The risk of injury to shoulder joints is significantly increased when weights are rapidly moved through a larger range of motion. It is recommended that hand weights be reserved for strength training, where speed of the movement can be controlled. In addition to shoulder injuries, ankle weights on the arms increase heart rate significantly and can lead to cardiovascular complications in less fit individuals.

7. Wearing head phones when exercising outside. The beat from your favorite musician or the intrigue of the latest audio book may keep your interest during an outdoor exercise session, but your awareness is diminished and the risk of twisting your ankle or getting hit by a car is increased. Besides, studies show that although music or entertainment may help you to exercise longer, your intensity is not as high.

8. Not listening to your body. Abnormal heart beats, pain, chest pressure, dizziness or insomnia following intensive exercise are signs of an over-trained body that may be at high risk for a heart attack and injury. Take a hint: slow down the pace or reduce the number of routines. It would be advisable to have a medical professional assess your condition if you experience any of the major warning signs of cardiac distress during an exercise session. If any symptoms persist during or following an exercise session, have your signs evaluated.

Diet & Fitness Blog: Top 5 'Bad' Foods -- and Healthy Foods Substitutes - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Top 5 'Bad' Foods -- and Healthy Foods Substitutes - eDiets

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Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Fitness Videos: Women... Boost Your Chest - eDiets

Fitness Videos: Women... Boost Your Chest - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: The Skinny on Fat: Trans vs. Saturated - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: The Skinny on Fat: Trans vs. Saturated - eDiets

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Grab-and-Go Breakfasts

Grab-and-Go Breakfasts

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Great for those crazy, busy mornings.

3 Spa Shakes

3 Spa Shakes

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Does somebody said: YUMMY!! Great for a hot summer day. Try one today.

Yoga to Go

Yoga to Go

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No more excuses. You can try this moves while you are on vacation.

The Look Good in Shorts Diet: Fill Up to Slim Down

The Look Good in Shorts Diet: Fill Up to Slim Down

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Appetizers and Snacks

Appetizers and Snacks

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Try one of this on your next party!!!

Hairstyle Gallery: Medium Hair

Hairstyle Gallery: Medium Hair

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Cut Calories Painlessly

Cut Calories Painlessly

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Walk Off the Weight

Walk Off the Weight

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Monday, July 6, 2009

Beauty

Summer Beauty Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

From the hair product you didn’t know you needed to the bedtime secret to better skin, these easy little tweaks to your beauty routine will make this season the prettiest one ever.

Postsun splotchiness, despite the sunscreen

The mistake: Applying SPF too quickly when you’re already out in the sun.

The quick fix: Swear off the speedy spray ‘n’ play approach. Give yourself a good chunk of time to make sure you get every single square inch and apply 30 minutes before going out, says Vermén M. Verallo-Rowell, M.D., author of Skin in the Tropics: “Sunscreen needs time to soak in.

Dry arms and legs

The mistake: Applying an SPF-filled moisturizer only in the morning.

The quick fix: Your A.M. ritual is a good start, but for dewy skin, you should moisturize each and every night. Keep a fan or AC on and sleep in a long-sleeve shirt and leggings—the fabric helps traps the moisture in.

Dehydrated skin

The mistake: Thinking your midsummer nightcap won’t affect your beauty sleep.

The quick fix: A few rounds at bedtime and you can wake up with dull, dry skin. Gulp a glass of water before you go to sleep to help rehydrate your bod—and eliminate the dreaded hangover headache.

Hard, cracked heels

The mistake: Walking in sandals and flip-flops can make your feet dry and rough-to-the-touch in no time flat. (It’s not exactly sexy when you go to curl up to your summer fling in bed.)

The quick fix: Try a foot-specific product like Kiehl’s Intensive Treatment and Moisturizer for Dry or Callused Areas, which has the kind of serious oils and shea butter ingredients that would be too heavy-duty for other parts of the body. And just like that long-sleeve tee tip, sleeping in socks after moisturizing will help soften your feet overnight.

Irritated skin at the ankles and legs

The mistake: Going in the surf ‘n’ sun right after shaving, waxing or laser hair removal.

The quick fix: Because skin is extra sensitive then, you could get a not-so-pretty rash. Skip the pool or surf and just hang out in the shade (with some guac) for a few solid hours after dehairing.

Fussy-looking makeup at the beach

The mistake: Plastering on the blush and eyeshadow, old-lady-style, when spending a day on the sand.

The quick fix: Save the heavy-duty makeup for more formal outside fun, like a friend’s barbecue. At the beach, try an easily blendable blush “stick” like Nars Multiple Stick to give your skin a natural, sun-kissed look. Can’t live without your standby powder blush? Dab a little on, then smooth cheeks with a some lightweight facial moisturizer to get that dewy, summery finish.

Fried hair

The mistake: Spending the summer at the pool or in the sun without switching up your hair products.

The quick fix: Like your sexy epidermis, your gorgeous hair can get stressed out by sun’s rays, so pile on the SPF-filled products. With UVA and UVB protection, Paul Mitchell Color Protect Locking Spray helps prevent color fade and keeps hair shiny, while Fréderic Fekkai’s Apple Cider Purifying Shampoo removes chlorine buildup.
Too much self-tanner

The mistake: Haphazard self-tanning that results in icky “yes, I’m faking it” spots.

The quick fix: There are a few different options. An oil-based makeup remover like Laura Mercier’s Light Purifying Oil will help take off a few layers of color, but good old-fashioned baby oil will also do the trick. Exfoliate to slough off the dead skin cells that color pigments tend to cling to or gently scrub skin with a washcloth dipped in milk (lactic acid makes a good exfoliator).

Nutrition Videos: Dark Chocolate: One Serving for Beautiful Healthy Skin - eDiets

Nutrition Videos: Dark Chocolate: One Serving for Beautiful Healthy Skin - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Ask Raphael: Overcoming a Plateau - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Ask Raphael: Overcoming a Plateau - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Tweak of the Week: Eat More, Weigh Less - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Tweak of the Week: Eat More, Weigh Less - eDiets

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Sunday, July 5, 2009

Quote of the Day

"We must all suffer from one of two pains: The pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons."

Horoscope

Today's Gemini Horoscope:
Jul 05, 2009


You're likely to be feeling extremely passionate today, dear Gemini, and you might want to connect with a love partner. However, circumstances might not permit this for one reason or another. You might be attracted towards the more racy novels or movies. Repressed anger might bubble up from your unconscious and seek an outlet. Therefore this is a great day to channel that anger into artistic activity of some kind. Don't be surprised if you find yourself using a lot of red!

Nutrition Videos: SuperFoods - Spices - eDiets

Nutrition Videos: SuperFoods - Spices - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: 8 Frozen Treats Under 100 Calories - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: 8 Frozen Treats Under 100 Calories - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Eat This for a Better Sex Life - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Eat This for a Better Sex Life - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: 7 Secrets of Great Grilling - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: 7 Secrets of Great Grilling - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: 10 Mistakes Dieters Make - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: 10 Mistakes Dieters Make - eDiets

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Thursday, July 2, 2009

Horoscope

Today's Gemini Horoscope:
Jul 02, 2009


If you find that you are not necessarily thinking like the rest of the group, do not panic, dear Gemini. In fact, this is probably a good thing. By going along with the crowd, you may be expected to act a certain way in certain situations, and then pretty soon you are living like a marionette strung up to a couple of sticks, manipulated by an unknown hand. Think for yourself at all times.

Beauty

Wrinkle creams: Your guide to younger looking skin

Many wrinkle creams and lotions sold in department stores, in drugstores and on the Internet promise to reduce wrinkles and prevent or reverse damage caused by the sun.

Do they work? Research suggests that some wrinkle creams contain ingredients that may improve wrinkles. But many of these ingredients haven't undergone scientific research to prove this benefit.

If you're looking for a face-lift in a bottle, you probably won't find it in over-the-counter (nonprescription) wrinkle creams. But they may slightly improve the appearance of your skin, depending on how long you use the product and the amount and type of the active ingredient in the wrinkle cream.

Common ingredients in anti-wrinkle creams

The effectiveness of anti-wrinkle creams depends in part on the active ingredient or ingredients. Here are some common ingredients that may result in slight to modest improvements in wrinkles.

Retinol. Retinol is a vitamin A compound and is the first antioxidant to be widely used in nonprescription wrinkle creams. Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals - unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and cause wrinkles. Retinol is less potent than the vitamin A derivative tretinoin, a topical treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating wrinkles. Tretinoin is available only by prescription. Avoid vitamin A derivatives if you are pregnant or may become pregnant because they increase the risk of birth defects.

Hydroxy acids. Alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids are all synthetic versions of acids derived from sugar-containing fruits. These acids are exfoliants - substances that remove the upper layer of old, dead skin and stimulate the growth of smooth, evenly pigmented new skin. Because hydroxy acids increase your susceptibility to sun damage, always wear sunscreen during use and for at least one week afterward.

Coenzyme Q10. Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that helps regulate energy production in cells. Some studies have shown reduction in fine wrinkles around the eyes with no side effects. Other studies show that application before sun exposure protects against sun damage.

Copper peptides. Copper is a trace element found in every cell. In products applied to the skin, it's combined with small protein fragments called peptides. Copper peptides enhance wound healing. They also stimulate production of collagen and may enhance the action of antioxidants.

Kinetin. A plant growth factor, kinetin may improve wrinkles and uneven pigmentation with minimal irritation. It's unclear how it works, but it may help reduce wrinkles by helping skin retain moisture and by stimulating the production of collagen. It may also be a potent antioxidant.

Tea extracts. Green, black and oolong tea contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea extracts are the ones most commonly found in wrinkle creams.

No guarantees: Assessing safety and effectiveness

The FDA classifies creams and lotions as cosmetics, which are defined as having no medical value. So the FDA regulates them less strictly than it does drugs. This means that products don't need to undergo rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness before approval to go on the market.

The FDA does step in, however, when advertisements portray cosmetics as drugs or when cosmetics contain ingredients that may pose a potential health hazard to consumers. For example, in 2002, the FDA ordered manufacturers of products containing alpha hydroxy acids to include a warning label stating that the acids may increase the risk of sunburn.

Because the FDA doesn't evaluate cosmetic products for effectiveness, there's no guarantee that any over-the-counter product will reduce your wrinkles.

Consider these points when judging the merits of using a wrinkle cream:

Lower doses. Nonprescription wrinkle creams contain lower concentrations of active ingredients than do prescription creams. So results, if any, are limited and usually short-lived.

Latest research. Research suggests that certain ingredients may improve wrinkles. However, most anti-wrinkle creams haven't been subjected to the comprehensive, objective research required to prove this benefit.

Cost. Cost has no relationship to effectiveness. Just because a wrinkle cream is more costly, may not mean that it's more effective than a less-costly product.

Daily use. You'll likely need to use the wrinkle cream once or twice a day for many weeks before noticing any improvements. And once you discontinue using the product, your skin may return to its original appearance.

Side effects. Some products may cause skin irritation, rashes, burning or redness. Be sure to read and follow the product instructions to limit possible side effects.

Your anti-wrinkle regimen

An anti-wrinkle cream may lessen the appearance of your wrinkles, depending on how often you use it, the type and amount of active ingredient in the wrinkle cream, and the extent of the wrinkles you want to treat.

But if you want to take the guesswork out of your skin-care regimen, try these more reliable ways to improve and maintain your skin's youthful appearance.

Protect your skin from the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light speeds up the natural aging process of your skin, causing wrinkles and rough, blotchy skin. In fact, sun exposure is the No. 1 reason for aging signs in the skin, including uneven pigmentation. Protect your skin - and prevent future wrinkles - by limiting the time you spend in the sun and always wearing protective clothing and hats. Also, use sunscreen when outdoors, even in winter.

Choose products with built-in sunscreen. When selecting skin-care products, choose those with a built-in sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Also, be sure to select products that block both UVA and UVB rays.

Use moisturizers. Dry skin turns plump skin cells into shriveled ones, creating fine lines and wrinkles long before you're due. Though moisturizers can't prevent wrinkles, they can temporarily mask tiny lines and creases.

Don't smoke. Smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin. It also damages collagen and elastin - fibers that give your skin its strength and elasticity. As a result, skin begins to sag and wrinkle prematurely.

If you're concerned about the appearance of your skin, see your dermatologist. He or she can help you create a personalized skin-care plan by assessing your skin type, evaluating your skin's condition and recommending products likely to be effective. If you're looking for more dramatic results, a dermatologist can recommend medical treatments for wrinkles, including prescription creams, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections or skin resurfacing techniques.

Diet & Fitness Blog: Hate Weights? 4 Exercise Alternatives - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Hate Weights? 4 Exercise Alternatives - eDiets

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Health & Fitness Blog for Men: Hall of Shame: Kool-Aid Pickles - eDiets

Health & Fitness Blog for Men: Hall of Shame: Kool-Aid Pickles - eDiets

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Extra Videos: Your Perfect Diet... Getting Started - eDiets

Extra Videos: Your Perfect Diet... Getting Started - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: Health-Conscious Cocktails - Healthy Drinks! - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Health-Conscious Cocktails - Healthy Drinks! - eDiets

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Just in time for this 4th of July weekend!!!

Diet & Fitness Blog: The Ultimate Food Quiz - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: The Ultimate Food Quiz - eDiets

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FYI

Challenging Yourself From Your Feet on Up

Another factor to consider when you vary your intensity level is your "base." This refers to the way in which you plant your feet on the floor. A wide base — placing your feet wide apart — helps stabilize your body. Working through an exercise with a wide base makes it easier to maintain form throughout reps. A narrow base, on the other hand — placing the feet together — makes any exercise more difficult, because your core and other muscle groups have to work harder to maintain a neutral — or balanced — body position.

Fitness tip

Build Your Upper-Body Strength With These Push-ups!

Remember when you first started working out and couldn't do five consecutive push-ups without collapsing? Now that you've been training for a while, you can do sets of ten without even breaking a sweat. Feels good, right? Well, maybe it feels a little too good. It might be time to push yourself a bit by introducing some push-up variations to further train the chest, triceps, and shoulders.
Here are two advanced push-ups to add to your repertoire:

Plyo Push-up

Start in your usual push-up position. Slowly lower yourself to the floor. With an explosive burst, exhale and push yourself up, bringing your hands off the floor and clapping them together. Land in the push-up position and repeat. The plyo (for plyometric) push-up increases muscle power by adding extra difficulty.

Close-Grip Push-up

Start in a push-up position but keep your hands directly under your shoulders instead of out to the side. Your legs should be extended straight out behind you, your feet slightly apart, so you are balancing on the balls of your feet as well as your palms. Keep your elbows pressed firmly against your torso as you slowly lower yourself down. Exhale, press back up to the starting position, and repeat. This close-grip push-up places more emphasis on your anterior shoulder muscles and triceps as well as your chest.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Horoscope

Today's Gemini Horoscope:
Jul 01, 2009


Has a certain project been a drag for you lately, dear Gemini? Don't be surprised if today you get your second wind. You're looking at your tasks in a practical manner, your interest in them is up, and you're able to accomplish them quickly and efficiently with a minimum of stress. Relationships with others should also be going well. Make the most of this while you can!

Diet & Fitness Blog: Curbing Summer Carbs: Your Guide to Summer Fruits - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: Curbing Summer Carbs: Your Guide to Summer Fruits - eDiets

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Diet & Fitness Blog: 10 Great Ways to Burn More Fat - eDiets

Diet & Fitness Blog: 10 Great Ways to Burn More Fat - eDiets

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Delicious Dessert Recipes

Delicious Dessert Recipes

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Guilt free desserts...

Mexican Recipes: Tropical Fruit Salsa

Mexican Recipes: Tropical Fruit Salsa

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Feeling adventorous, try on of this recipes.

Yummy Salad Recipes

Yummy Salad Recipes

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STOP EATING THE SAME BORING SALAD. TRY ONE OF THIS... YOU GOING TO LOVE IT!!

Burger Recipes

Burger Recipes

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Great for this summer grilling... Try one...

Recipe of the Day

Watermelon Gazpacho Recipe

Prep Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 20 mins

Nutritional Info (Per serving)(This recipe make 6 servings):
Calories: 116, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 296mg, Dietary Fiber: 2g, Total Fat: 5g, Carbs: 18g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Protein: 2g
Carb Choices: 1

Ingredients

8 cup(s) watermelon, seedless, (about 6 pounds with rind), finely diced
1 medium cucumber(s), peeled, seeded and finely diced
1/2 medium pepper(s), red, bell, finely diced
1/4 cup(s) basil, fresh, chopped
1/4 cup(s) parsley, flat-leaf, chopped
3 tablespoon vinegar, red wine
2 tablespoon shallot(s), minced
2 tablespoon oil, olive, extra virgin
3/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

1. Mix watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, basil, parsley, vinegar, shallot, oil and salt in a large bowl.

2. Puree 3 cups of the mixture in a blender or food processor to the desired smoothness; transfer to another large bowl. Puree another 3 cups and add to the bowl.

3. Stir in the remaining diced mixture. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Beauty tip

Sharing Makeup


When it comes to makeup, it’s best to be selfish and keep your products to yourself. While most cosmetics contain preservatives to help slow the growth of bacteria and fungus, sometimes this isn’t enough to prevent your makeup from getting contaminated. In fact, in one study researchers found bacteria such as staph (which causes impetigo), strep (which causes strep throat) and E. coli (which has been linked to food poisoning) in department store makeup testers. E. coli normally lives in the digestive tract and is found in stool. It is spread when people don’t wash their hands after using the restroom and then touch another surface.

Each time you touch a lipstick or mascara, you are potentially introducing germs to the product. And the more people who use it, the greater the likelihood of spreading infection. Since mucous membranes are more susceptible to getting infected, lip and eye products should never be shared under any circumstances.

While it’s true that makeup artists often use the same cosmetics on different people, several prominent makeup artists that I discussed this with all said that they take precautions to avoid contaminating their products. For example, they use disposable applicators to apply lip gloss and mascara, and disposable sponges to apply foundation and powder. All of the artists also said that they wash their brushes between clients, since, in addition to being more hygienic, clean brushes help makeup go on more smoothly and evenly.

The next time you’re having your makeup done for a big event, or if you’re tempted to get a makeover at the department store cosmetics counter, follow these tips to minimize your risk of catching an infection:

If possible, ask if they can open a new tester, especially when trying lip gloss or mascara with applicators that are dipped back into the container. Otherwise, insist on using a disposable applicator.

Ask what cleaning procedures the makeup artist uses to care for his or her products. For example, some companies have a policy of wiping their lipsticks with alcohol and sharpening their pencils before and after each customer, which helps to reduce the spread of bacteria.

Avoid weekend visits to cosmetic counters, because the stores are busier then, and more people have been handling the testers.

Wash your face as soon as you get home.