Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

How to Get Rid Of Frizzy Hair Permanently With These Hair Masks

Fifty percent of women in research cited that it was essential to have frizzy-fee and smooth hair, while thirty percent stated that frizzy hair was one of the top beauty complaints. However, this condition is not permanent as there are various frizzy hair solutions one can use.

Here are the top seven natural hair masks to permanently get rid of frizzy hair:

1. Coconut Milk

For this hair mask, you need a bowl and two or three tablespoons of coconut milk. Use heat to warm the coconut milk. Apply the warm coconut milk to your hair and let it stay for half an hour. Then shampoo and condition your hair. Utilize this hair mask up to twice a week. Coconut milk is an ideal light protein treatment that repairs damaged hair. In addition to moisturizing your hair, it nourishes it, making it shiny, strong, and smooth.

2. Aloe Vera

Ingredients include a ¼ cup of carrier oil and ¼ cup of aloe vera gel. Mix oil with the aloe gel and apply the hair mask to the scalp and the hair. Leave it be for up to half an hour and use shampoo and conditioner to wash it off. The mask can be used up to two times a week. One of the most popular moisturizing ingredients is aloe vera. When it is mixed with a carrier oil, it creates a protective layer over the follicles of your hair, which reduces the loss of moisture, making your hair smooth, soft, and shiny.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Ingredients for this hair mask include 2 cups of cool water and two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Mix the ingredients and put them in a jug. Use shampoo to wash your hair and then use the hair mask to rinse your hair. After leaving it for a few minutes, wash your hair with conditioner. This treatment can be done once a week. Apple cider vinegar assists in balancing your hair’s pH levels while closing any open cuticles. This, in return, makes your hair retain more moisture. Additionally, it eradicates the build-up of grease and dirt, making your hair shine.

4. Honey and Yogurt

To make this mask, you will require one tablespoon of honey and two or three tablespoons of yogurt. Put the ingredients in a bowl and mix them. Apply the combination on your hair and scalp and leave it be for up to thirty minutes. Use cold water to wash it off. To maintain your hair and restore moisture, carry out the procedure once a week. While honey assists the hair in retaining moisture, yogurt is a great deep conditioner. Yogurt makes the frizzy hair shiny and smooth.

5. Beer

Ingredients include one pint of beer. Pour the beer in a bowl to decarbonate it. Leave it for a whole night so that it becomes flat. Use shampoo to wash your hair and then massage your scalp as you use the beer to wash your hair again. Use cold water to rinse the beer out. Carry out the treatment once every two weeks. In addition to restoring moisture, beer also nourishes your frizzy hair with its numerous B vitamins and proteins. Moreover, it is used to eradicate build up, which maintains the health of your cuticles.

6. Banana

For this mask, you will need 1/3 cup of almond or coconut oil, 2 teaspoons of honey, and 1 ripe banana. Mash the banana and mix with oil and honey to come up with a smooth mixture. Use the hair mask on your frizzy hair and scalp and leave it for up to twenty five minutes. Rinse thoroughly with conditioner and shampoo. If your hair is really frizzy, use the mask once in one week. Bananas are good hair conditioners, particularly when mixed with honey, a popular humectant.

frizzy hair

7. Mayonnaise

Ingredients include one or two eggs depending on your hair length, a third cup of pure almond oil, and a quarter cup of mayonnaise. Mix the ingredients to create a smooth paste. Coat your scalp and hair with a lot of the hair mask and cover your head with a shower cap or a hot towel. Wash off the mixture after a while with shampoo and conditioner. The mixture offers strength, shine, and nourishment to your hair. It adds the additional layer of moisture which assists in effectively controlling frizzy hair. It is a top hair mask for frizzy and dry hair.

Conclusion

If your hair is dry and frizzy, then you can try the coconut milk, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, honey and yogurt, beer, banana, or mayonnaise frizzy hair solutions to treat your hair. One effect that all these masks have in common is leaving your hair strong, nourished, and shiny. Happy masking!

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Going Paleo To Lose Weight? This Nutritionist Wants You To Think Twice

If you stay in touch with diet trends of the past couple of years, you’ve probably heard of the Paleo diet. This diet is based around the idea that we should eat the way that our ancestors ate because our bodies have evolved to process these foods effectively. It also means that we should avoid certain types of foods because our bodies are not designed to digest them, especially ones that are heavily processed or contain certain grains. In the medical community, there are differing opinions as to whether or not this is actually how humans evolved, and there is some research that suggests our evolution is slightly more complex. But the question on a lot of people’s minds is whether or not you can actually lose weight when you are on the Paleo diet.

We all want to get sculpted abs or lose a ton of weight, but is the Paleo plan right for you? The Paleo diet has strengths and weaknesses, but you need to understand it in the larger context of eating healthfully. And, like any diet, you have to watch your portions, and you can’t swap in other unhealthy foods to replace the unhealthy ones that you’re cutting out. The Paleo diet can be helpful for some people who are trying to eat healthier and lose weight, but you need to know about a few caveats and how it works.

What Is and Is Not Allowed on the Paleo Diet

The most general way of explaining what is included is to list some general guidelines. The diet usually consists of eating fish, lean meat, fruits, vegetables, natural sweeteners, nuts, and seeds. The items that you should cut include grains and legumes, processed fats, dairy products, potatoes, added sugars, and most alcohol.

keto vs paleo

Working Out

It’s also assumed that when you are on the Paleo plan, you’ll be working out. The diet doesn’t give a detailed workout plan, but you can find many places that can give you exercise routines and motivation.

Will Going With the Paleo Diet for Weight Loss Really Work?

It can help you lose weight by cutting carbs because you are no longer eating as many through grains. This will decrease the number of calories that your body is turning into sugar. If you like to have alcohol sometimes, cutting down on calories from beer or hard liquor can help, too.

Pitfalls of Eating Paleo

If you decide that going Paleo is right for you, there are a couple of common mistakes that people make while on this diet. Knowing what they are will help you avoid them.

Dangers of Cutting Too Many Carbs

While it’s not advisable to have too many carbs in your diet, the downside of cutting too many out is that you can experience adverse side effects like dizziness, vomiting, and headaches.

Finding Ways Around the Rules

One of the biggest pitfalls that some people fall into is trying to find ways around the rules. For instance, although natural sweeteners are allowed, you still have to use them in moderation. There are all kinds of recipes online that show ways that you can incorporate agave nectar or honey into baking, but don’t fool yourself into thinking that because they’re natural they aren’t loaded with sugar. If you eat 25 grams of sugar from honey, you’ll still put on the pounds. Another example is starchy vegetables. While it’s good to have some so that you’re getting enough carbohydrates, too many potatoes will still cause weight gain.

Paleo diet

Inconsistent Advice on What Is Allowed

Some people say that some kinds of alcohol are allowed, yet others say that they are not. There are some inconsistencies about what you can eat on the Paleo, so if you have a specific question about the Paleo diet for weight loss, you might find it difficult to find a straight answer.

No Guidelines on Portion Sizes

Even with foods other than honey and starchy vegetables, it’s still entirely possible to eat too much. For instance, if you eat a giant steak, that’s still a lot of calories. Just because you’re cutting some negative things doesn’t mean that you can eat as many eggs as you want, either. If you want to go paleo for a while, you’ll have to monitor your body to figure out what you actually need in terms of portion sizes.

It’s possible to use the paleo diet for weight loss, but understand that just because you can lose weight with it doesn’t mean that you will if you make poor choices. There are also other ways that are just as effective if you want to cut a few pounds. Having plenty of healthy, tasty recipes, such as these delicious smoothies on hand will help too. Ultimately, avoiding too much sugar and carbohydrates is one of the most effective ways of trimming your waistline.

10 Things I Wish People Knew About Being Diabetic

For many people who have diabetes, the disease can be challenging to struggle with on a day-to-day basis after diagnosis. Not only are the symptoms and treatment methods a struggle, but it can also be challenging to explain the facts to other people who may not be as informed. There are many misconceptions about diabetes, which can make it difficult to explain and discuss.

I find it challenging when other individuals comment on when I’m eating sugar or question my decisions. Some people mean well but aren’t informed enough to offer guidance.

Here are a few facts about being diabetic and following a diabetic diet that I wish others knew:

1. Everyone’s Situation is Different

When it comes to being diagnosed with diabetes, each person’s situation is different. The treatment that is provided may work temporarily or long-term. In most cases, the treatment needs to change over time as the individual gets older. What worked in your 30s may no longer work in your 50s. Some people can tolerate pasta or sugar in their diet whereas others can only consume it occasionally. A medical professional will create a diabetic diet plan for the patient depending on their case and symptoms.

2. Diabetes Isn’t Always Caused By Sugar Consumption

Many people make the mistake of correlating diabetes with eating too much sugar, which can make it easy to blame the individual for developing the disease. In reality, diabetes isn’t often caused by a poor diet. Although a lack of exercise or a healthy diet can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, many other factors lead to developing the disease. Genetics, age, and ethnic background are factors that also increase the risk of developing type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can be beyond the individual’s control.

3. Those with Diabetes Don’t Want to be Labeled

It can be easy to label someone as a diabetic and put them into a separate category than the rest of the population, but many individuals don’t want that to become their identity. I’m also a sister, a mother, and a wife, which adds more value and detail to my identity rather than the disease that I’m suffering from each day. It’s important to avoid calling people “diabetics” at all costs and remain sensitive.

4. There are Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes may sound similar, but there are many differences. Those who have type 1 diabetes suffer from an autoimmune disorder that causes the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin to attack themselves. The individual is no longer capable of producing insulin, requiring them to inject it on a consistent basis to remain alive. With type 2 diabetes, insulin isn’t used correctly in the body, but can be managed by following a specific diabetic diet and by taking medication. There’s also latent autoimmune diabetes, which has characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

5. There is No Cure

Many people who have diabetes are used to receiving suggestions from different types of people on methods or remedies that they believe can cure diabetes. Most individuals aren’t aware that there is currently no cure for the disease. Hopefully, there will be a cure in the future after more research is conducted.

6. It Costs a Lot of Money to Have Diabetes

Those who are recently diagnosed with diabetes quickly learn how expensive it can be to manage the disease. Insulin, test strips, glucose monitoring sensors, syringes, and pumps can add up in cost each month for the average person. Many people have to choose between daily necessities and the cost of insulin as they attempt to stay alive. Unfortunately, many pharmaceutical companies profit significantly off those who need the supplies to survive. Following a specific diabetic diet plan can also increase the overall cost by eating cleaner foods.

7. It’s a Challenge

Although diabetes can be managed with the right diabetic diet and exercise, it’s still a challenge for the average person. It requires a lot of time and energy to manage the disease at times, and any minor mistakes can lead to significant problems that can put the individual’s life at risk. Many people have to manage their blood pressure several times during the day and don’t get a break from keeping a close eye on their health to ensure that they survive.

8. I Can Eat Sugar

As someone who suffers from diabetes, it can often be frustrating having someone always question if I’m allowed to eat a brownie or a piece of candy at a party or a gathering. It’s important to understand that taking the necessary amount of insulin can allow the individual to consume sugar in moderation. Those who have diabetes may need to follow a diabetic diet. However, that can include eating sugar from time to time.

diabetic diet

9. Diabetes is Impossible to Control

Although type 1 and type 2 diabetes can be managed, it is still impossible to control even with a diabetic diet and lifestyle changes that are made. There are bound to be bad days even with the right choices made or steps taken.

10. I’m Not Limited in My Abilities

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean that it’s not possible to run a marathon or work long days. The only thing that those who have diabetes can’t do is produce insulin. But they’re still capable of staying physically active and living a normal life by following a diabetic diet and taking enough insulin. Lifestyle changes may be necessary but shouldn’t limit the individual’s ability to thrive and pursue their hobbies or dreams.

By understanding the facts about type 1 and type 2 diabetes, it can allow other individuals to be more informed. By addressing a few misconceptions, it can make it easier to understand the disease and how it affects 29 million people in the U.S., according to cdc.gov.

5 Ways to Self-Heal Using Your Mind

When thinking about the title of this article, a single thought may have come to your mind: “Is it even possible to self-heal using your mind?” If this is never a topic you’ve thought about before, you may find the answers surprising.

“Conventional medicine, like most other sciences, suffers from ‘scientism.’ Scientism, which became particularly omnipresent at the end of the 19th century, is the idea that only through applying scientific methods can we deduce the truth.” – Daniel J. Crasafi, ND.A., MH, PhD

(Important note: This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.)

The Western World is on the cusp of a healthcare revolution. It can be argued that modern medicine has “lost its way,” as stated by Dr. Fernand Turcotte, a world-renowned professor of preventative medicine at the prestigious Université Laval in Quebec, Canada.

It should come as no surprise that Dr. Turcotte specializes in preventative medicine. After all, Western medicine so spectacularly fails in this area: deterrence of disease. Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and assistant professor of health policy at George Washington University, says the following:

“Health is not just about disease, but also about wellness. (Many) choose to see a TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) doctor not because they are ill, but because they want to be well. They believe TCM helps them keep in balance. It’s an important lesson for doctors and patients alike to address wellness and prevention.”

But let us not dwell on the shortcomings of Western medicine. We’re here because we want to teach you how to self-heal.

Why Self-Healing Works

Enough anecdotal and experimental evidence exists to say, at a minimum, that there’s some validity to alternative methods of healing. For example, Marilyn Schlitz, PhD., a Senior Scientist at the Research Institute of the California Medicine Center, writes this in The Permanente Journal:

“It’s clear from the correlational studies … that positive relationships exist between religious and spiritual practice and health outcomes on a variety of different conditions.”

Many believe that spiritual healing occurs via the transference of “information,” probably from the human biofield, either from oneself or from one individual to the next depending on the technique. Such a hypothesis is not far-fetched. That’s because the human body is made up of energy.  Without energy, we could not and would not exist.

5 Methods to Self-Heal Using your Mind

 “(The) only way I was going to get well was to treat the emotional, psychological, and spiritual sickness.” – Lissa Rankin, M.D. (source)

Before we go any further, the very first thing that you should understand is that your mind has more power than you think. While we cannot go into minute detail about this, suffice to say that there is plenty of evidence supporting the idea of belief in self-healing (among many other amazing feats.) You must also understand that your mind and body are intimately, inextricably connected. Understanding these two concepts will go a long way in helping your efforts to self-heal.

That said, as with any method of self-healing, please use common sense. If you have a broken bone, see a doctor. If you are bleeding profusely, go to the hospital. You get the picture.

Let’s get to it!

1. Self-Hypnosis

 Self-hypnosis requires learning how to create an open, relaxed state of consciousness to induce positive changes in the mind and body. Despite predictable (and misleading) objections from the medical establishment, plenty of evidence exists demonstrating the efficacy of self-hypnosis.

In an article titled “Hypnosis: An Underused Technique,” Robert London, M.D., writes that hypnosis can be “an effective aid” in treating a myriad of physical and mental problems, from anxiety to chronic pain.

There are multiple free and cheap ways to learn self-hypnosis, including from online courses and smartphone apps.

2. Meditation

Meditation, in all its various forms, is a technique to help focus and settle the mind. The aim of meditation is to achieve mental clarity and mental calmness. In the past two decades, there have been loads of scientific research attesting to the health benefits of meditation.  This is hardly surprising, considering that the best medical schools in the world, including Harvard, Oxford, and Yale, have established mindfulness and meditation research centers. Furthermore, they have devoted countless millions of dollars to find the next great breakthrough.

By far the most commonly-practiced (and most thoroughly researched) type of meditation is called mindfulness meditation.

3. Biofeedback

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) involuntarily controls the central nervous system (CNS). The ANS is responsible for regulating digestion, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and many other involuntary functions. Your state of mind directly affects the ANS, hence explaining the role of biofeedback.

Biofeedback involves the prevention or treatment of conditions by learning how to manage the activities of the ANS. You can purchase self-administered biofeedback devices, including consumer EEGs and HRVs. Biofeedback can also be administered by a practitioner of naturopathic medicine.

4. Mindful Use of Herbs and Supplements

Many have practiced the use of natural herbs for thousands of years. The research attesting to the effectiveness of many herbs and supplements is overwhelming, though there are some contradictory studies (conducted mostly by proponents of the current health care system, including doctors.)

That said, here are some herbs and supplements thought to aid in your efforts to self-heal:

  • Magnesium:

Magnesium deficiency is a big problem in the U.S., which is too bad considering that it’s one of the most well-researched cures for anxiety and stress resistance. Additionally, magnesium may influence some 300-plus chemical reactions in the body.

self-heal

  • Ginkgo Biloba:

Shown in many studies to increase blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and memory.

  • Ashwagandha:

Commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is thought to work by suppressing the inflammatory response. Per a study published in PLoS One, the herb improves concentration, reduces fatigue, increases vitality, and improves mood more effectively than psychotherapy.

Others: potassium, probiotics, L-theanine, Omega-3 fish oil, valerian root, St. John’s Wort, Curcumin, and most natural multivitamins also.

5. Conscientious Lifestyle Changes

If your condition is not life-threatening, the best cure for your ills may just be to make some lifestyle changes. While this suggestion might sound boring, there is a good reason why you continually hear about the importance of a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, not smoking, and so forth.

Final Thoughts

While the above points will likely help you self-heal, prevention is always the best medicine. Make the hard choice now so that you don’t have to deal with the consequences later!

Which Is The Best Anti Inflammatory Diet According To Experts

Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain, IBS, bloating, and constipation are the signs of chronic inflammation within the body. Unlike acute inflammation or redness and swelling after an injury, chronic inflammation has no visible signs. It’s been linked to several diseases and conditions, from acne to allergies. What we eat plays a huge role in preventing and treating chronic inflammation. Not surprisingly, health experts agree an anti inflammatory diet will help you fight the free radicals responsible for chronic inflammation.

Foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are your body’s best defense against chronic inflammation. Following an anti inflammatory diet plan means giving up foods that are likely a part of your everyday diet. This includes saturated fats in red meat and processed meat like hot dogs. Vegetable oils like corn oil and safflower contain omega-6 fatty acids. Too much of them can cause inflammation. Coffee creamers, margarine, or anything with trans fats should be avoided.

14 Best Anti Inflammatory Diet Foods

For the best anti inflammatory diet plan, include some superfoods daily.

cinnamon

1 – Berries

Berries are rich in flavonoids that reduce free-radical damage to cells. This gives all berries, including blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, an anti-inflammatory effect. Flavonoids also help fight cancer and cognitive decline. Go for one cup per day.

2 – Fatty Fish

Studies have been conducted that clearly show that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon and tuna significantly decrease inflammation. Omega-3s are also important to brain and heart health. Fatty fish is rich in B vitamins.

3 – Leafy Greens

Make sure to add leafy green veggies like kale, collard greens, Swiss chard, and spinach to your anti inflammatory diet. They are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory flavonoids, and important vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, and K. Look for darker shades of green. Generally, they are the most nutritious.

4 – Broccoli

Broccoli is an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants with potent anti-inflammatory powers. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound found in cruciferous veggies shown to lower oxidative stress and fight chronic inflammation.

5 – Bone Broth

Surprisingly nutritious, bone broth is loaded with body-boosting minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and glucosamine to help protect joints and strengthen bones. Bone broth is also rich in collagen, a protein that helps keep skin plump and firm. Collagen is also found in our ligaments, tendons, and bones.

6 – Nuts

Almonds and walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy heart and good brain function. Recent studies suggest that walnuts lower the risk of developing breast cancer. Snack on them or toss them on a salad.

7 – Beets

Beets are high in vitamins and minerals, as well as an amino acid called betaine helps protect against environmental stressors. The bright color of beets is due to phytonutrients shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Beets also support healthy brain function.

anti inflammatory diet

8 – Garlic

Garlic is easy to add to an anti inflammatory diet since it can be used to flavor so many dishes. This tasty bulb contains a sulfuric compound called allicin which has a powerful calming effect. Chop garlic finely to release the allicin.

9 – Turmeric

Long used in Indian cuisine, turmeric has been researched intensely for its potential to fight arthritis, cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin is responsible for turmeric’s potency and bright yellow color.

10 – Ginger

Ginger comes from the same plant family as turmeric. Traditionally used to treat upset stomachs, use ginger in an anti inflammatory diet to halt the body’s production of cytokines, proteins that are the source of chronic inflammation.

11 – Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a versatile spice used in sweet and savory dishes. Use it liberally because cinnamon has a high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds concentration. It also balances blood sugar and improves working memory.

12 – Coconut Oil

Keep coconut oil in your pantry for cooking. The body more easily metabolizes its fatty acids than fats from other oils. Coconut oil also contains lauric acid, which helps fight off harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the body.

13 – Chia Seeds

These tiny seeds reverse inflammation due to their excellent omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids ratio. They also have a high fiber and protein content. Chia seeds also regulate cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Incorporate them into your diet with chia seed recipes.

14 – Moringa

Moringa is a highly nutritional spice from trees in West Africa, India, and South America. The leaves are dense with antioxidants, iron, protein, and vitamin C. Fortunately, it’s available in powdered form. Add a teaspoon or two of this bright green powder to smoothies, oatmeal, or granola.

Health experts agree that medications and treatments are essential for rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions, but they also say an anti inflammatory diet may help, too. Although not a magic cure, an anti inflammatory diet may reduce flare-ups from acne, IBS, arthritis, and other conditions linked to chronic inflammation. Additionally, since all the foods suggested as part of an anti inflammatory diet are superfoods, they help keep you healthy.

anti inflammatory diet
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Anti Inflammatory Diet for You

Inflammation causes numerous health concerns, warn the experts. So following an anti inflammatory diet is key to soothing and calming any inflammation in your body. Even as you introduce these foods, start to reduce your consumption of harmful foods that can inflame your body. Some of the foods to wean out of your diet are the following:

  • Wheat
  • Sugar
  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Sports beverages
  • Overly processed foods

Little by little, you’ll see an improvement–these small changes add up quickly.

Be sure to discuss any nutritional changes with your family physician, as they will take an interest in your progress.

Going Gluten-Free? Here Are The 10 Things You Should Know

A Facebook meme states, “thousands of years of eating bread, and suddenly everyone goes gluten-free.” The fact is that less than one percent or one in 100 people have celiac disease, an auto-immune disease in which the small intestine is damaged upon ingesting gluten. Hundreds more have a gluten sensitivity in which the intestine is not damaged, but the symptoms are equally painful.

Gluten-free foods, mostly prepackaged, have added sugars and fats. This calorie-intensive “food” does as much harm as the disease it purports to help. However, millions of people have gone on the gluten-free diet whether or not they should. To these people, we offer ten things they should know.

10 Things To Know About A Gluten Free Diet

gluten free

1. What Is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye and in foods processed in plants that process grains. Proteins are the building blocks of the cells. Take away that protein, and the body struggles for health.

2. Whom Does This Affect?

Celiac symptoms were once pretty cut and dried. If you had gluten sensitivity, then you had celiac disease. Those with gluten sensitivity that wasn’t celiac patients were somewhat misunderstood. Their symptoms were different but no less painful. Both reported improvement when following a gluten-free diet plan.

3. Where Else Does Gluten Appear?

Unlike doctors who clean and sanitize their surgical instruments, food processing plants give a swipe of a soapy cloth and call their facility “clean.” The truth is that candies, soft drinks, salad dressings, deli lunch meats, some fruits and vegetables, beer, processed meats, and their vegetarian cousins, condiments, gravies, bouillon, and many more are processed using the same equipment used to produce bread. Read labels carefully and ask questions if gluten doesn’t appear there.

4. Is A Gluten Free Diet A Good One?

If you’re a celiac or gluten-sensitivity patient, the answer is a resounding yes. For others, the answer is a shrug. The nutritional benefits of grains notwithstanding, cheating the body of necessary nutrients isn’t a good idea. Other grains, such as oats and quinoa, don’t contain gluten.

Additionally, it depends upon the reason for adopting a gluten-free diet. Those wishing to lose weight may gain weight from the added sugars and fats in prepackaged “foods.” Those wishing a healthier lifestyle must check labels thoroughly for hidden gluten.

5. Gluten-Free vs. Gluten-Wise

A truly gluten-free processing plant doesn’t exist, as we discussed above. Restaurants claiming to be gluten-wise or gluten-conscious should be taken with a grain of salt. They could contaminate your gluten-free food by not washing your hands or changing gloves when switching between gluten-containing foods and non-gluten foods. These restaurants serve the greater public who would like to go gluten-free, but aren’t forced to by disease or sensitivity.

going gluten-free

6. Gluten-Free Can Be Delish

So there is no bread and pasta in your gluten-free diet. There are dozens of foods available to you that are delicious. Meats, seafood, fresh fruits and veggies, eggs, poultry, nuts, seeds, potatoes, rice, and dozens of other foods taste good and are suitable for you.

7. Going Gluten-Free Takes Time

Breaking a habit is not easy. You’ll backslide and cheat. Training the mind and body to discontinue what’s bad for it takes time and effort. Don’t feel like a failure when you don’t sail right through the change. It happens to everyone. Get back on the gluten-free diet wagon, and you’ll be fine.

8. The Friends And Family Plan

Not walking in your skin and suffering symptoms make friends and family puzzled. They don’t see a problem with eating bread and pasta. Add to that the fact that they don’t understand the medical terms and may rarely do research to find out. You’re going to feel alone. There are many like you and support groups online and in your city for your comfort and convenience.

9. You Might Not Lose Weight

The celiac patient will gain weight. The intestine will heal, enabling it to absorb nutrients again. Watch for added sugars and fats in your gluten-free diet plan. Most gluten-free foods are junk food anyway. No amount of fancy advertising will make it anything other than junk food.

gluten free diet

10. Alcoholic Drinks

Hard liquor like whiskey and bourbon is made from grains. The difference between these and beer is that hard liquor is distilled. The gluten is too difficult to get through the machines, so hard liquors are gluten-free. Beer, on the other hand, isn’t processed like that. Beer still contains gluten from the grain. There are beer-like substances, and some think they taste better than the real. Jack and Coke, anyone?

Living gluten-free can be tasty and varietal. Keep in mind these ten things. They will guide you through the whys and wherefores of the gluten-free diet. We’re happy to help!

How I Lost 10 Pounds In 1 Month Using Law Of Attraction For Weight Loss

I lost 10 pounds in one month. I know, I know. It’s hard to believe. I was skeptical that losing 10 pounds in only one month using the Law of Attraction was even possible. How could simply thinking about something make it happen? Pills, potions, fad diets, and exhausting workouts were all things I’d regarded as concrete and quantifiable. Therefore, somehow some way, sticking with them would work.

They didn’t work, though. Every morning I’d get up, look in the mirror and see the same overweight person I was ashamed of, the same rolls of fat that I loathed, and the same defeated expression. I had to face the facts: none of the weight loss methods I’d tried worked, so I decided to give this law of attraction thingy a whirl. Amazingly, the law of attraction for weight loss worked, and I shed 10 pounds in one month. Here’s what it is, how it helped me quickly shed weight, and how it can help you.

WHAT IS THE LAW OF ATTRACTION? 

The LOA is a manifestation force that attracts whatever we focus upon into our lives. Positive attracts positive, and negative attracts negative. You attract conditions, people, and circumstances corresponding to your dominant thoughts and beliefs. The law of attraction is neutral. It doesn’t deem something good or bad or reward or punishment. It simply matches your vibration and reflects it to you.

My negative thoughts about my weight didn’t align with the positive result of losing it. When both aligned, the result was remarkable. These are my tips for the law of attraction for weight loss.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU WANT 

If you think, “I don’t want to think about my creepy ex-boyfriend anymore,” you’re focusing on not thinking about Mr. Wrong, and he remains front and center in your mind. That’s not conducive to releasing thoughts of a relationship that didn’t work and moving on.

Thinking “I hate my body” will elevate your weight because you’ve established the condition that you need to hate it. “I lose weight easily” or “My body is beautiful and slender” will be much more effective in aligning you with your goals.

Keep these thoughts in the present tense. Avoid some pie-in-the-sky versions such as “I will lose weight easily,” or “My body will be beautiful and slender.” Your weight will follow your state of mind. You’re not stuck with your current weight. You can create something different. The key is believing that you already have it.

ALIGN YOUR THOUGHTS WITH AN EASIER EXPERIENCE 

Do you believe that weight loss requires suffering and sacrifice? Then that’s what you’ll find in your world. Believe that weight loss will come easily and naturally. Believe that you already think of yourself as slim. Align yourself with people who have a healthy body image. The law of attraction will transform your thoughts into reality.

CREATE A VIBRATIONAL MATCH WITH THE BODY YOU WANT 

I learned that I could move beyond feeling hopeless and helpless. I could be a conscious creator instead of a victim. I’m proof that these methods work. They’ll work for you too.

• Practice daily visualizations. Shakti Gawain, bestselling author of “Creative Visualization,” says, “Creative visualization is the technique of using your imagination to create what you want in your life.” Search the internet for “visualization.” You’ll find resources that can help you learn how to practice it. Visualization only takes a few minutes a day.

• When you eat, thank every morsel of food for making you slender.

Law of attraction

• Use a vision board. You can create this collage online, or do it old school with cardboard or corkboard. Fill it with images of people who exemplify you at your ideal weight. You can also use images that express your joy at being that weight (for example, fireworks blazing or the sun bursting through clouds.) Look at it daily, and let it fill you with positive thoughts.

TREAT YOUR BODY LIKE A FRIEND 

Your body is doing many amazing things right here, right now. It keeps your heart beating and your breath flowing, letting you enjoy the gifts of five beautiful senses. It purifies you by removing wastes and toxins. Your body is incredible! Don’t scorn it. Talk to it lovingly. Applaud your weight right now as though it’s already your ideal weight. Ready? Watch the LOA swing into action!

“Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t,” said Henry Ford, “you’re right.” These wise words are the foundation of the law of attraction. I lost 10 pounds in a month because I told myself my body was gorgeous and slender on day one. Tell yourself the same after reading this article, and see what happens!

Trying To Lose Weight? Try These Tricks From A Fitness Expert

Maybe you have a big wedding or promotion coming up. Maybe you just want to fit into those old jeans that have been collecting dust in the back of your closet for years.

Whatever your reasons for hopping on the scale, you should know that weight loss doesn’t have to be the crazy, complicated thing that the media makes it out to be. In fact, it can be quite simple to slim down when you know what you’re doing!

If you’re wondering how to lose weight fast, here are some quick and simple tips that can help.

1. Chew Your Food 

It might sound a little odd, but one of the easiest ways to lose weight is to chew your food with more deliberation. Not only will it prevent you from stuffing your face in a frenzy, but it will also reduce the amount of air that you swallow with your meal. You won’t have to deal with an uncomfortably bloated stomach when you’re done, which will make you both look and feel better.

2. Target Your Problem Areas 

Certain exercises are better for you than others, especially if you’re trying to lose weight in a specific part of your body. For example, if you’re trying to get rid of stubborn belly fat, abdominal exercises are going to be more beneficial than leg workouts. If you’re trying to trim your waist, crunches will help more than calf stretches. Be smart and specific about the effort that you use when you hit the gym.

3. Eat Smaller Meals 

It’s actually a myth that eating more frequently will boost your metabolism. However, experts agree that small, periodic meals are a great way to regulate your blood sugar and decrease cravings throughout the day. If you’re able to eat smaller portions 4-6 times instead of bigger portions 2-3 times, you can really help yourself lose weight. If you have a condition like diabetes, it can help with managing that as well.

4. Drink More Water 

You don’t have to be crawling on the ground with a dried-out tongue to be suffering from the effects of dehydration. It’s often a subtle thing with minor symptoms that you don’t even realize are bothering you. You might feel more irritable than usual; you might have headaches or muscle aches that make you want to skip the gym. By drinking more water, you’ll eliminate these annoyances and feel more prepared to meet your weight loss goals.

5. Increase Your Potassium Levels 

When contemplating how to lose weight fast, one of the most important things to think about is your diet. What’s your average caloric intake? Are you getting your recommended daily values of calcium, fiber, and iron? Pay particular attention to your potassium levels. If you aren’t getting enough of this natural, fat-burning compound, you’re missing out on a prime weight loss opportunity!

6. Clean Out Your Pantry 

Get rid of your chips and sodas. You can’t binge on something that isn’t there! This is especially important if you have a problem with vegging out on the couch or snacking late at night when you can’t sleep; without the easy temptation of junk food, you’ll be more likely to whip up something healthy or just ignore your cravings until it’s the proper time to eat.

7. Consider Different Types of Motivation 

Some people like “tough love” motivation that doesn’t allow them to slack off. Others prefer a gentler kind of motivation that will keep them going even after binges and bad days. What works for another person might not work for you, so feel free to experiment with different types of inspirational messages and guides. This is a big part of how to lose weight fast: Finding what works for you.

how to lose weight fast

8. Let Yourself Cheat 

Having the occasional “cheat day” can be good for your diet, especially if you cheat with foods that are sneakily good for you. For example, certain types of carbs can encourage the production of fat-burning and appetite-regulating hormones, so you can indulge in that plate of pasta with the knowledge that you’re actually helping your body. Just don’t overdo it!

9. Reach Out to Others 

There are a million success stories out there. What are their secrets? How did they do it? What advice can they offer to other people who are struggling to slim down? Learn how to lose weight fast by following in the footsteps of those who came before you, especially if they’re fitness or wellness specialists with expert opinions.

These are just a few tips for how to lose weight fast. At the end of the day, what you see in the mirror is much less important than how you feel inside, so don’t stress too much over the numbers on your scale. Try to focus on self-confidence for true self-improvement!

Keto vs. Paleo: What’s the Difference?

When you’re ready to try a healthy diet, you will come across so many options that you might not know where to begin. Many people narrow it down to the keto vs. paleo options, two popular weight loss methods. If you’re in the predicament of choosing between the two, knowing the differences can help.

Keto and paleo diets share some similarities, but many differences can affect your body. The differences between keto vs. paleo include the allowed foods, their effects on the body, and health aspects. Both options are popular because they boost health, eliminate processed foods, and encourage weight loss.

The keto and paleo diets are low-carb plans, but they have different rules to follow. There are a few factors to consider when choosing keto vs. paleo, so knowing the differences is essential. They both require lifestyle changes, preferences, and goals.

Choosing between keto and paleo is highly restrictive and will drastically change your dietary habits. You will likely have to eliminate or drastically reduce some of your favorite meals and snacks. Knowing the difference will help you decide which diet is best for you if you’re up to the challenge.

What Is the Keto Diet?

The keto diet aims to induce a ketosis state, where your body uses fat instead of carbohydrates to create energy. You will change your dietary macronutrients during the keto diet to induce ketosis. The dietary change involves a high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate diet.

When your body enters a state of ketosis, it initiates the metabolic breakdown of body fat. Even the slightest macronutrient shift can take your body back out of ketosis. If you strictly follow the guidelines, though, it can help you lose weight.

In a typical diet, the body uses carbohydrates for fuel. If you follow the keto diet, you won’t consume many carbs, triggering the body to use fat and excess protein as fuel. The liver turns stored fat into ketones, using them as energy for the body.

Keto excludes certain foods and encourages others. Grains and legumes are excluded, so you must get your carbs from keto-friendly vegetables. The keto diet doesn’t only help with weight loss, as it also helps improve blood sugar control.

keto vs paleoWhat Is the Paleo Diet?

The paleo diet is based on consuming foods that early humans ate in the Paleolithic era. It restricts processed foods and modern production techniques, supporting natural biological function and improving digestion. The paleo diet requires cutting out modern-day foods such as dairy and grains and encouraging healthy fats and animal protein.

Some people view the paleo diet as an impactful environmental choice rather than a way to lose weight. They might also view it as a beneficial lifestyle that results in total body wellness.

Along with losing weight, the paleo diet reduces inflammation, improves workouts, increases energy, and stabilizes blood sugar. Plus, it reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Supporters of the paleo diet say that the human body cannot naturally handle the processing and digestion of grains. The foods that are encouraged on this diet include ones that are rich in protein and fiber. There is a strong emphasis on meat, fruits, and vegetables.

Key Differences Between Keto and Paleo Diets

While there are many similarities between keto and paleo diets, the differences are essential to know. Knowing the differences can help you decide which diet plan works best with your lifestyle.

Keto Involves Macronutrients While Paleo Involves Ideology

Keto doesn’t have a direct lifestyle component, and it doesn’t involve ideological focuses. Instead, it focuses on macronutrients and sticking to a strict dietary regime.

Paleo, on the other hand, focuses on lifestyle choices and ideology. On a paleo diet, you must incorporate intense but short exercises into your routine.

Paleo Allows for More Whole-Food Carbohydrates

While paleo restricts some sources of carbs, you can still get carbs from whole-food sources. Unlike the keto diet, you can choose from unrefined sweeteners, vegetables, and fruits containing carbs. If you are on the keto diet, you can’t eat any carbs, including legumes, sweeteners, grains, most fruits, and some starchy vegetables.

Keto Allows Some Dairy and Soy

You can consume dairy products such as butter, heavy cream, and unsweetened yogurt on a keto diet. Plus, you can eat some sources of soy, such as soybeans, tofu, and tempeh. On a paleo diet, however, soy and dairy are discouraged.

Paleo Excludes Processed Meats

Processed meats, including bacon, ham, and salami, are excluded from a paleo diet because they result from modern food processing techniques. The keto diet allows processed meats as long as they don’t contain carbohydrates or sugar.

Keto Restricts Starchy Vegetables

Since keto restricts all carbohydrates, starchy vegetables aren’t an option. Eating them could interrupt your ketosis state, undoing your hard work. The paleo diet allows you to eat any vegetable, even starchy, in moderation.

Paleo Allows for Eating Fruit

While fruits contain many nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, most aren’t allowed on the keto diet. The paleo diet allows for eating all fruit, despite its sugar or carbohydrate levels.

Even on the paleo diet, you should still focus on fruit with low sugar whenever possible. Don’t eliminate your favorite high-sugar fruits, though, as any fruit is okay in moderation.

Keto Allows Some Dairy Products

On the keto diet, dairy products high in fat and protein are acceptable. However, the keto diet does not include dairy products containing sugar, including ice cream, milk, and sugar-sweetened creamer. The paleo diet excludes all dairy products because the Paleolithic humans didn’t consume them.

Key Similarities Between Keto and Paleo Diets

Keto and paleo have similarities, despite the many differences. These similarities include:

An Emphasis on Whole Food

Both keto and paleo have an emphasis on whole foods as nutrient sources. Whole foods are not processed and come in the most natural form possible. Most allowed foods include vegetables, nuts, fish, and meat.

Eliminate Legumes and Grains

Keto and paleo diets force you to eliminate grains and legumes, although each diet has different reasoning. Paleo excludes them because they weren’t part of the Paleolithic diet, while keto excludes them because of the sugar and carbohydrate content.

Both Eliminate Added Sugar

Paleo and keto diets require that you eliminate added sugars. On a paleo diet, you can consume natural sugars, but keto restricts all sugars because of the carbohydrate levels.

Emphasize Healthy Fats

Both keto and paleo diets allow unrefined and healthy fats from fish, nuts, seeds, and avocado oils. The mono and polyunsaturated fats allow for a healthier body, improve metabolic functioning, and benefit heart health.

Both are Effective for Weight Loss

The paleo and keto diets both promote weight loss. Research shows that people on these diets lost a significant percentage of their body weight. Keto is a short-term option, as the weight can quickly return when you stop the diet.

They Both Exclude Some Healthy Foods

Both diets advise against consuming some foods that are considered healthy. According to the Dietary Guidelines For Americans, healthy foods that are restricted include rice, wheat, quinoa, pasta, bread, and oats. These diets also exclude healthy beans, peanuts, peas, soy, and lentils.

keto vs paleoKeto Vs. Paleo Food List

The keto vs. paleo food list can help determine what you can eat on each diet. Some of the restrictions might help you make up your mind.

Food or food group PALEO KETO
Animal proteins including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, and fatty fish Allowed Allowed
Bacon and other processed meat Not allowed Allowed
Eggs Allowed Allowed
Dairy foods such as milk, cream, butter, and cheese Not allowed Allowed
Nuts and seeds Allowed Allowed
Oils including olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil Allowed Allowed
Low-carb vegetables including avocado, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and fresh herbs Allowed Allowed
Grains or starches Not allowed Not allowed
Beans and legumes Not allowed Not allowed
Fruit Allowed Not allowed, unless it is small portions of low-sugar berries or citrus fruits
High carb vegetables such as potatoes and carrots Allowed Not allowed
Sugars and sweet foods like soda, juice, ice cream, and candy Not allowed Not allowed
Natural sweeteners, including honey, maple syrup, and agave Allowed Not allowed
Refined and hydrogenated oils Not allowed Not allowed
Processed foods Not allowed Not allowed
Plain Greek yogurt Not allowed Allowed
Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa and no added sugar Allowed Allowed

Keto Vs. Paleo Benefits

All diets have benefits and drawbacks, and these two are no different. Knowing the benefits of each diet can help you decide which is right for you.

The benefits of keto include rapid weight loss, diabetes prevention, disease control, and lowered blood sugar levels. Additionally, it promotes mood regulation and a decreased risk of cancer and cognitive issues. Plus, the keto diet allows you to eat many high-fat foods that others restrict.

The paleo benefits include lasting weight loss, improved glucose tolerance, and better cardiovascular health. This diet can decrease your risk of developing type two diabetes, stabilize blood sugar, and regulate mood. The paleo diet also decreases your cancer risk and improves your overall health as you stop eating processed foods.

Keto Vs. Paleo Side Effects

Anytime you follow a diet that eliminates food groups, you must meet your daily nutrient requirements. If you miss essential nutrients, you will experience deficiencies and suffer severe consequences. Keto and paleo diets can harm people with chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

People on a keto diet can experience side effects related to ketosis, including keto breath, keto skin rash, or the keto flu. Symptoms of the keto flu can include headaches, insomnia, nausea, lethargy, mental slowness, decreased exercise, constipation, and low libido. These side effects arise when your body first enters ketosis or after you’ve been in the state for an extended period.

Additionally, the keto diet can lead to a lack of fiber and other micronutrients. This lack of fiber stems from the restriction of foods that contain carbohydrates. The keto diet can negatively impact heart health if you often choose more saturated fat.

The side effects of paleo are different from keto because paleo doesn’t lead to ketosis. Paleo can lead to inadequate calcium levels due to excluding dairy products. Without enough calcium, it can cause low bone and tooth density, causing damage and breakage.

The paleo diet can also lead to a lack of fiber and micronutrients. These inadequacies can harm gut health.

Keto Vs. Paleo: Which Diet Is Healthier?

When choosing between keto vs. paleo diets, your decision might come down to which is healthier for your lifestyle. While both diets have health benefits, many believe paleo is healthier because it offers more dietary flexibility.

With flexibility, you can consume various nutrients, helping you reach your required nutritional goals. Paleo also encourages a healthy lifestyle, incorporating exercise and leading to long-lasting weight loss and maintenance.

Keto seems better suited to people treating health conditions rather than those who want to lose weight long-term. The high-fat diet is detrimental to heart health, too, making heart disease a potential risk.

With the heavy restrictions, keto is also harder to maintain. Plus, it can interfere with social situations, making that something to consider. Consider how long you can stick to the diet as you choose which is best for you.

keto vs paleoFinal Thoughts on Keto Vs. Paleo: What’s The Difference?

Learning the keto vs. paleo differences is essential when figuring out which diet is best for you. Consider your lifestyle and how each diet plan would impact you. You must also consider both health aspects and determine if you can stick to them.

Both diets are beneficial for weight loss and share some similarities, but the differences are what matter. Whichever diet you choose, meet your nutritional requirements and focus on healthy food options.

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