Archive for the ‘Fitness & Health’ Category

Smoking Linked To Adult Acne

Monday, July 26th, 2010

A study has revealed that smoking isn’t just a bad habit because of the risks of cancer, yellow teeth and the bad smell. Now smoking has been linked to adult acne, giving you skin care fanatics another healthy reason to butt out.

A study published in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology revealed that women who smoke have higher cases of acne as an adult. Blackheads and bumps were more prevalent with women smokers than all others who didn’t.

After doing the study a doctor involved commented on the skin care effects this study could have. She said, “We will need more products with Vitamin A and alpha and beta hydroxyl-acids to clear the skin along with exfoliating products.”

So smokers with skin care issues should look at exfoliating more often to keep their skin clear. But if you are concerned about your skin care health though, your best bet is just to quit smoking.

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Expert Weight Loss Advice From Dr. Sass

Sunday, July 18th, 2010

In our expert tips section, we like to find experts who can give you real advice you can use. It seems like there is always someone around you who is trying to lose weight unsuccessfully. We turned to our resident expert, Dr. Sass, to get tips on the best ways to lose weight.

When it comes to diet and weight loss, is it best to count calories, fat or carbs?
I recommend counting calories first and then fats. Remember, simple carbs (processed foods, sugar, etc.) are much worse than certain fats like olive oil.

What is the newest surgery for weight loss?
Weight loss surgery should only be reserved for people that are morbidly obese and have tried other diets. Gastric Balloon Surgery is the procedure that involves inserting a balloon into the stomach to reduce the amount of food eaten.

dr-sassDr. Sasson E. Moulavi (Dr. Sass), M.D. is a Board Certified Bariatric Physician, who has challenged communities, industry and government to do more to prevent the obesity epidemic. For more than 15 years he has specialized in the study and treatment of Bariatric Medicine. Dr. Sass has directed the operation of multiple weight loss centers in both the United States and Canada. He has dedicated his life’s work to finding easily palatable solutions to help Americans curb their hunger. Dr. Sass is the creator of underWAY™ and Medical Director of Smart for Life™ Weight Management Centers and Better Health Beverage. See more on Dr. Sass here.

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Jasmine Good For Your Mental Health

Tuesday, July 13th, 2010

Spa ResortAre you sick of medicating just to calm down at the end of a hard day? A study out of Germany says next time you can try skipping the Valium and instead head for the natural smell of jasmine.

The study found that the smell of jasmine can act as a replacement for drugs like Valium to help act as a sleeping pill or mood enhancer. The scent of jasmine can help your health by being soothing, calming instead of medicating yourself.

Doctors suggest keeping a jasmine plant in your home at all times to keep the scent lingering for those times when you need to be calm. They do say though that in a large room, one plant may not be enough.

We at Real Style Network’s beauty blog thought of a bunch of ways to get some extra jasmine to relieve the pressure like jasmine scented candles, air fresheners or incense that is available pretty much everywhere. Get a scented body lotion or perfume for a spritz on the go. Of course, our favourite way to infuse some jasmine into our beauty routine is to soak in a long bath with jasmine bubble bath and a good book. Who wouldn’t feel relaxed after that?

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Demi Moore & Ashton Kutcher Do Master Cleanse

Monday, July 12th, 2010

demi mooreThe celebrity beauty world is a buzz with news that Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher have started doing a master cleanse together.

On Saturday Ashton Kutcher tweeted that he would be starting his master cleanse. Then today Demi Moore updated her followers on their progress on Twitter saying:  2nd day of master cleanse and off to hike with hubby and the dogs. 2nd day better than the 1st! Now everyone wants to know the details behind the master cleanse to maybe get a hint at how they keep their celebrity beauty youth.

The master cleanse is a 10 day detox drink that consists of a drink made of maple syrup, lemon juice, water, and cayenne pepper. During the 10 days that is all you can consume. Meaning no other food or drinks at all. Call us crazy, but that just doesn’t sound very appetizing at all. Even health buff Ashton Kutcher admitted he was craving a steak after just a day.

The master cleanse is meant to eliminate toxins from your body, stop cravings for things like alcohol and tobacco and help you lose weight.

The master cleanse is a popular trick used by a lot of celebrities. Beauty news sources reported a few years back about how Gwyneth Paltrow actually got sick from going through a Master Cleanse that sent her to the hospital. But many other’s including Naomi Campbell and Beyonce have done the master cleanse successfully.

[photo via Cliff]

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Atkins Diet Risky For Women

Saturday, July 10th, 2010

iStock_000003958614XSmallA new diet has found that the Atkins diet could be a risky weight loss method for women. The study found that diets, like Atkins, has the risk of increasing the chances of developing Osteoporosis in women.

According to a story in the Daily Mail, the new study tested women from 43 to 80 years old who were dieting on a number of different diet types. They found that women who go on diets that are high in protein lost bone mineral density. Since osteoporosis is such a huge concern in old women this study is shocking.

Losing weight in general on any diet create results of losing bone density, but the statistics were even high for those on the high-protein diets.

This doesn’t mean you should stop trying to lose weight once you hit a certain age, but it does mean you should look more closely at tailoring your fitness & health regiment to your own needs. Talking to a doctor about the risks of cutting out or increasing entire food groups before you jump in.

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ShaToBu Fitness Garment Helps You Burn More Calories

Wednesday, June 30th, 2010

shatobu fitness garmentThe Real Style Network fashion blog talks a lot about shapewear to help you smooth out your curves under your clothing, but we have found a new fitness garment that won’t only make you look good, but will increase the calories you burn. The ShaToBu fitnesswear is said to help you burn 12% more calories during your workout.

The ShaToBu fitness outfit puts more resistance in your movement making you use more energy to move. You can wear the ShaToBu suit under your clothes to burn more calories on a daily basis or under your workout clothing while at the gym.

Studies found that while the suit does help you burn more calories, some people may tire out more easily. Experts also warn that you shouldn’t use the suit if it constricts you too much because you will end up being injured for your fitness goal.

You can get the ShaToBu garment on their website now for $50.00 for a waist to knee suit and $60.00 for a high waisted version.

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Fitness & Health Trend: BodyBugg Calorie Counter

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

body bug fitness and healthWith everyone working to keep their bikini body in shape, a new gadget the BodyBugg (or body bug) is getting buzz from the fitness and health world. This calorie counter can help you track your weight loss progress giving you a more indepth view of how your fitness goals are progressing.

The body bug measures your fitness and exercise through a number of different body triggers. It tracks this data and lets you see your progress and goals online or on your iPod/iPhone.

The body bug measures your steps when you are walking or running, skin response through your sweat, skin temperature, and a heatflux measuring the amount of heat your body is giving off. You can input your goals into the online program and get going. Online you can track progress, get advice, and find others who have similar fitness goals.

The body bug starts at around $175.00 for the basic armband device and a 6 month subscription to the online tracking and go up to $239.00 for more options such as one on one calls with a coach. Each additional 6 month online subscription costs $79.95.

For a more indepth look at how the BodyBugg works watch this video:

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Sugar-Free Foods Are Not Necessarily Diet Foods

Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010

iStock_000010747442XSmallAt Real Style Network’s Beauty blog, like everywhere we are looking for healthy ways to keep our bodies in shape. A story by the New York Times has looked closer into how sugar-free foods are not always such a healthy diet choice for those looking to lose weight.

In the health story, the true difference between the sugar-free and normal versions of snacks we all love is revealed. While many of us pick the sugar-free version thinking we are doing our bodies a great service, the reality is the calories are almost the same. The difference between calories in sugar-free and normal foods can be as low as a 7 calories. It’s almost worth it to take the extra 7 calories to have the real deal.

They also point out that while diabetics need the sugar-free option the rest of us probably don’t. The sugar-free versions of food can cause side effects that will make you think twice. The additives in sugar-free foods to give them their sweet taste can cause diarrhea, diabetes and will make you hungry faster.

They don’t help you lose weight or replace things in your diet that are missing. So maybe next time instead of picking up a sugar-free snack, you may want to opt for a healthy food instead.

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New Study Says Caffeine Isn’t Making You Alert

Saturday, June 12th, 2010

A new study found that your morning coffee isn’t actually helping you wake up at all. While you reach for your morning coffee you may want to know that the reason you morning coffee is giving you a boost is because of the caffeine withdrawal your body is going through.

This new study from the UK says that your morning coffee is making you more awake, but it is the withdrawal from caffeine that is actually making you drowsy. When you drink your morning coffee you get the needed jolt to feel ‘alert’ again. People who avoid coffees and teas don’t have that problem, therefore feel fine in the morning. Those of you who don’t drink as much coffee on weekends will feel the effects even more once Monday morning rolls around.

The study done in the UK tested caffeine pills versus placebos on a number of people who both drank coffee regularly and avoided it. They found no difference in the alertness of the participants who had caffeine. Those who were going without all of a sudden were sluggish without it.

So while your morning coffee may wake you up, don’t depend on it to boost your brain.

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Diet Pills – Expert Diet Advice From Dr. Sass

Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010

For our next question in our Expert Tips series, we asked Dr. Sass for advice on using diet pills to help you lose weight. With everyone trying to stay in shape and look their best, especially through the bikini season, more people are trying to find ways to keep the weight off. We wanted Dr. Sass’s expert opinion on whether taking diet pills was a healthy choice.

With so many diet pills on the market, is there any harm in taking them in conjunction with a healthy weight loss diet and exercise plan?

Only when taken under supervision of a physician. Diet pills are very successful in achieving reasonable goals when used under medical supervision with a good diet and exercise plan. A lot of people are unable to lose weight unless they take diet pills. Asking them to lose weight on their own is like asking to lower their blood pressure without medication. Unfortunately, diet pills have received a bad reputation due to FenPhen. There are at least 3 diet pills on the market that give good results that I believe doctors are under-utilizing. Unfortunately, there are so many fake and unproven diet pills that can be dangerous when ordered over the Internet without a face-to-face meeting with a physician. People can be taking their life into their own hands. I recommend learning more at ASBP.org.

dr-sassDr. Sasson E. Moulavi (Dr. Sass), M.D. is a Board Certified Bariatric Physician, who has challenged communities, industry and government to do more to prevent the obesity epidemic. For more than 15 years he has specialized in the study and treatment of Bariatric Medicine. Dr. Sass has directed the operation of multiple weight loss centers in both the United States and Canada. He has dedicated his life’s work to finding easily palatable solutions to help Americans curb their hunger. Dr. Sass is the creator of underWAY™ and Medical Director of Smart for Life™ Weight Management Centers and Better Health Beverage. See more on Dr. Sass here.

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Foods To Help Your Skin Tan Better

Wednesday, May 26th, 2010

bikini girl summer tanA new study found that getting the perfect tan isn’t necessarily all about finding the right mix of sun, suntan lotion and bronzer. The food you eat will help give your skin that sun kissed glow you are looking for all year long. This study found that eating foods rich in betacarotene will help produce a natural bronze on your skin.

The study done at Bristol University found that these betacarotene fruits and vegetables give your skin a more golden hue. The foods you should focus on eating to see the effects are orange and green fruits and vegetables. This includes carrots, cantaloupe, peppers, and spinach.

After working with volunteers the Bristol University study found that eating a diet rich in these foods gave most a more gold yellow shade to their skin.

If you are constantly looking for the perfect tan, try changing your diet. It is not only healthier for your skin than lying in the dangerous sun for hours, but the boost in fruits and vegetables in your diet will be good for your overall health too.

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LL Cool J Writes Fitness & Health Book

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010

ll-cool-j-fitness-bookWhen you think of fitness and health experts the first person to pop into your head may not be rapper and actor LL Cool J. This celebrity has added a new section to his resume by writing a new fitness and health book for fans and fitness nuts.

Platinum 360 is the new fitness, diet and all around health book by LL Cool J to inspire and get fans in shape. Platinum 360 features an 8 week diet plan for both men and women. The book also includes weight loss pep talks from LL Cool J himself to give you the confidence to continue on your goal.

While taking health advice from a rapper (no matter how fit he is) seems foolish, reviewsof the book are positive. Readers say the book features carb and protein focused diet plans depending on your needs. It also features single serving recipes and portion suggestions depending on your weight.

Platinum 360 is in book stores now.

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Expert Health & Diet Advice From Dr. Sass

Friday, April 30th, 2010

Real Style Network’s beauty blog asked Bariatric Physician Dr. Sasson E. Moulavi for his expert health and diet advice for our readers. As a part of our Expert Tips section, we will be sharing Dr. Sass’s valuable knowledge and tips on how to stay healthy. Make sure to check back here for more health and diet tips from Dr. Sass.

Q: There has been a lot of talk lately about so-called “superfoods”. Items like goji berries and quinoa are often referred to as “superfoods”. What are your recommended superfoods?

A: I don’t believe people should look at super foods so much. They are usually rich in only one nutrient. I recommend a combination of super foods to get a balanced diet. A few of my favorites:
• Almonds: a great source of Vitamin E, good amounts of magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, fiber and good source of healthy monounsaturated fats. Contain more calcium than any other nut. Eating almonds in moderation promotes lower cholesterol levels, prevents heart disease and can help with weight loss.
• Acai Berry: Contains powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants may help reduce the risk of some diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
• Pomegranate: May contain close to 3 times the antioxidants as green tea or red wine. Also combats hardening of the arteries and related diseases like heart attacks and strokes. Research shows that pomegranate may help lower bad cholesterol, lower blood pressure, fight osteoarthritis and keep prostate cancer from returning.

dr-sassDr. Sasson E. Moulavi (Dr. Sass), M.D. is a Board Certified Bariatric Physician, who has challenged communities, industry and government to do more to prevent the obesity epidemic. For more than 15 years he has specialized in the study and treatment of Bariatric Medicine. Dr. Sass has directed the operation of multiple weight loss centers in both the United States and Canada. He has dedicated his life’s work to finding easily palatable solutions to help Americans curb their hunger. Dr. Sass is the creator of underWAY™ and Medical Director of Smart for Life™ Weight Management Centers and Better Health Beverage. See more on Dr. Sass here.

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Coffee Helps You Live Longer

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010

Coffee addicts have gone through years of hearing how bad it is for you to drink so much caffeine. While the downfalls of coffee are still there, a recent study has found that it’s not all bad. Coffee drinkers are actually less likely to suffer from a number of ailments.

A study found that coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of liver and colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease. Other studies say that coffee may lower the risk of prostate cancer in men, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Doctors associate these health benefits to all of the antioxidants in coffee. Our coffee crazed society gets more antioxidants from coffee than anywhere else in their diet. It keeps your brain alert and discourages the growth of bacteria, including ones known to cause certain cancers. This means a little bit off coffee isn’t just giving you an energy boost. Actually decaf coffee seems to produce the same health benefits as regular coffee.

Be careful how you use coffee though. Just because it has some benefits doesn’t take away from the fact that it can dehydrate you and keep you up at night, among other things. The studies are not fully conclusive. At least, you don’t have to feel so bad about keeping coffee in your daily routine though.

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Eat A Cellulite Fighting Diet

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010

bikini-girlThe summer is approaching. You don’t want a little cellulite to stop you from wearing your mini skirts, short shorts and bikini. Changing your diet can help protect your beautiful skin from pesky cellulite. Real Style Network Beauty blog found some great advice on the foods that will be a part of your skin care and health routines.

The first tip is to drink water. We all know we should be drinking water, but how many of us actually get our recommended glasses in. Drinking water will help your health in a number of ways this summer including having a healthier heart and more energy. In the summer heat it’s even more important. Fighting cellulite and keeping your skin smooth is an extra reason to drink up.

Vitamin C is crucial to fighting cellulite. Getting more vitamin C in your diet helps strengthen collagen in your skin keeping it firm and smooth. Your best sources of vitamin C are fruits and veggies like black current, red pepper, parsley and broccoli.

Finally whole grains are the way to go. Whole grains won’t make your blood sugar spike the way that white bread and sugary cereals do. This makes it easier for your body to burn off fat. Eating those other foods just means more fat cells with nowhere to go, creating cellulite. Supplement your regular white bread, rice and pasta for a whole wheat version.

These tips won’t get rid of the cellulite you have and you will still need your regular anti-cellulite products, but a few easy diet changes and you will be fighting any future cellulite.

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