When Trying to Lose Weight, Don’t Forget to Exercise

  A startling statistic has been circulating over the Internet.  This stat claims that half of all those who want to lose weight don’t exercise.  While this might seem mind-boggling at first, it is not entirely surprising, when you stop to consider what American culture has become.

             In the early days of the republic, the majority of Americans did hard labor on farms.  They were used to exercise during their normal workday, so they ate large meals in order to give them the energy they needed to complete their tasks.  There weren’t any Oprah Winfreys around back then to question their eating habits.

            In the 19^th century, Americans began moving into cities to take factory jobs.  Again, they spent much of their time on their feet.  Many walked to work and to school, so exercise was a part of their normal routine.  They didn’t have to worry about doing Pilates or strength training, since ordinary life afforded many opportunities to exercise.

           Fast-forward to today.  Many people have sedentary jobs, working on computers, working at desks, working at cash registers.  They have little opportunity during their work days to move, let alone get up and stretch.  At home, they may spend much of their time sacked out in front of a television set, or on their home computer. 

            However, studies have proven that the best weight loss plan combines sensible diet with exercise.  Certainly, you can reduce your calorie intake.  But it is also important to boost your metabolism, and that is best done through an exercise routine.  Since you must burn a phenomenal amount of calories in order to lose pounds, exercise is crucial to long-term weight loss success.

             But what if you don’t enjoy exercise?  How can you possibly start an exercise program?

              In short, you need motivation.  This can come from a variety of sources.  For instance, you might want to play your favorite up-tempo music during your exercise drills.  This can provide the incentive you need in order to get moving.  Another motivator can be to exercise with your children in tow.  This could mean doing jumping jacks with your kids, or jogging while you push a stroller.  You might also consider joining a “Mommy and Me” exercise class.  Another winning strategy is to employ the services of an exercise buddy.  This can be your mate, a friend, or even your mother.  You can encourage each other, helping each other to overcome various hurdles to regular exercise.

            Another strategy is to base your exercise program on something you really enjoy.  Even those of us who are not athletic usually have some physical activity that we look forward to, whether it’s volleyball or tennis, bowling or swing dancing.  The type of activity isn’t as important as the fact that you are engaging in it regularly.

             If at all possible, you should add strength training to your exercise regimen.  Lifting weights can boost your metabolism, causing you to burn calories while also adding muscle to your frame.  Strength training can also help you to guard against osteoporosis and other health problems.

             You might also consider hiring a personal trainer.  He or she can act as your coach, urging you on when you feel like quitting.  A trainer can provide you with the inspiration necessary to achieve your weight goals.  It has also been shown that those who employ a trainer reach their optimum weight faster than those who do not.

             You should also prioritize exercise.  You should mark it in your daily planner and stick to a regular exercise schedule.  The important thing is to make exercise a regular part of your life.  It should not be limited to special occasions, or those times when you are in the mood.  It needs to be as regular as breathing.

              In order to be a healthy person, you simply need exercise.  And exercise is also beneficial to your mind as you begin your weight loss program.  It can clear your head and help you to work out your frustrations.  In short, it can give you a sense of accomplishment that will put you in the right frame of mind when trying to shed weight.

Emotional Eating: A Prime Ingredient for Obesity

Sandra found her weight ballooning 60 pounds after her separation from her husband.  While part of the weight gain was apparently tied to the medication she was taking, the rest appeared to be the result of what can be described as emotional eating.  In recent years, greater attention has been focused on the problem of emotional eating for both women and men.  In fact, some experts have gone so far as to claim that most weight gain can be blamed on emotional eating.  According to Women Today magazine, it has been estimated that as much as 75 percent of overeating is attributed to the emotions. 

       For a number of people, overeating stems from anxiety.  For instance, if you find yourself consuming an entire bag of potato chips, it’s possible that anxiety is the cause.  While many people realize that alcohol and illegal drugs are not an antidote to anxiety, they may not understand that indulging in comfort food in order to combat anxiety can be dangerous as well.

        In other cases, overeating may be the result of depression.  If you feel tired, hopeless, and have lost interest in your normal activities, you may be suffering from a depressive episode.  In order to deal with these uncomfortable feelings, people may turn to food in an effort to cheer up.  The problem is that the food can lead to weight gain, which can lead to further depression.

        At times, overeating may be a symptom of boredom.  An individual may figure that he or she has nothing better to do than overeat.  This can be particularly true when one is watching television or surfing the Internet.  Rather than trying to determine a cause for the boredom, an individual may just try to “fix” it by indulging in high-fat, high-calorie food.

         How do you know if you are an emotional eater?  Ask yourself some key questions:  Do I tend to eat when I’m worried?  Scared?  Sad?  Do I find that eating lifts my spirits?  Am I spending more time eating than engaging in other activities I enjoy?  Do my binges come after I’ve suffered disappointment?  Am I turning to food in order to deal with the death of a loved one…a divorce…or the defeat of my favorite team?  If the answers to any of these questions is “yes,” you may be overeating purely for emotional reasons.

          After you’ve identified yourself as an emotional eater, you’ll need to take steps to correct your behavior.  Perhaps the most effective technique is diversion.  In other words, if you find yourself reaching for the cookie jar, find another activity to engage in.  The answer could be taking a walk, kickboxing, or dancing.  Or it could be something less physically demanding, such as needlepoint or crochet.  The idea is to get your hands…and perhaps the rest of your body…moving.  In time, you might find the urge to overeat subsides as you become involved with other activities.

           Another effective step you can take is to identify the triggers for your emotional eating.  Do you tend to binge in mid-morning, mid-afternoon, or right before bedtime?  Are you snacking while watching television, while at the computer, or when you’re sitting in your favorite chair?  By asking yourself these questions, you can identify the time of day when you overeat, as well as the location for your binging.  With this information, you can learn to re-direct your behavior to less fattening pursuits. 

            Yet another helpful technique is to develop a support network to help you combat overeating.  The members of your support team could include your spouse, children, parents, friends, or other over-eaters.  You may even consider joining a support group which specializes in helping those who engage in binge eating.  If you feel the need to overeat, contact a member of your support team.  Talking through your emotions could provide you with the emotional release you need, making overeating unnecessary.

           If your anxiety or depression persists, consider seeing a psychotherapist.  He or she can help you develop more effective coping mechanisms.  If you find it difficult to talk to friends or family about your overeating, a psychotherapist can provide you with the talk therapy you need to overcome your problem.

            

Beware of Diet Fads When Trying to Shed Pounds

    It might be actresses such as Suzanne Sommers and Jane Fonda, or models such as Christie Brinkley or Kathy Ireland.  It seems that a number of celebrities today offer their own weight loss programs.  The programs are appealing because we see these various svelte celebrities and we want to have bodies just like them.  The celebrities are also highly likable, so we have a predisposition to be accepting of their products.

       However, did you ever stop to think whether these celebrities have any nutritional training?  Do they have medical training?  Is the information that they offer nutritionally sound?  Or is it just a good sales pitch?

      Nutrition experts Annette B. Natow and Jo-Ann Heslin, authors of the book Get Skinny the Smart Way, say that consumers should be leery of celebrity-inspired diet books.  They point out that such books are often based upon nutritional fiction and that, while the diets outlined in these books may result in short-term weight loss, they can be far from healthy in the long run.  Therefore, you might consider passing up the celebrity diet books and opting for those written by nutritional experts instead.

      But celebrities aren’t the only ones preaching fad diets.  For instance, there’s the so-called grapefruit diet which recommends consuming a grapefruit prior to each meal.  Another fad is the cabbage soup diet, which requires you to consume all the cabbage soup you can handle.  Other fads call for eating all the eggs you can…consuming only raw foods…or fasting every other day.  Such diets are not only based on nutritional misinformation—they can also be dangerous. 

       For instance, let’s take a closer look at the cabbage soup diet.  No major health organization has endorsed it.  Moreover, the American Heart Association disapproves of it, noting that it can actually harm you.  Promoters of this diet say that you can lose as much as 15 pounds a week by following it—what they don’t say is that most of that weight is water weight.   Once you begin eating normally again, you will see your weight rise once more.  Some of the side-effects of the cabbage soup diet include a feeling of weakness, stomach pains, and diarrhea. 

      Yet another questionable diet approach is what’s known as food combining.  Such a diet assumes that you are overweight because you are not eating the right combination of food.  The requirements of such a diet can seem quite arbitrary.  For instance, you might be told that you can eat a banana only in the morning.  This is rubbish, since your stomach can deal with a variety of different foods at one time.  The idea behind such a diet is to eat food with fewer calories, but there are other methods you can use to accomplish the same goals.

      Some companies even claim that you can shed pounds while you dream.  They say that, if you use their product right before bedtime, you will lose weight.  In actuality, no company can make such a claim with any degree of credibility.  It is impossible to burn a large number of calories while snoozing.  In other cases, you may be tempted to try to lose weight by consuming special milkshakes or candy bars.  In essence, these products are just milk and candy with certain vitamins and minerals added.  However, one rarely feels satisfied after consuming these products.  As a result, you may find yourself actually consuming additional calories during the rest of the day.  While you might be able to theoretically lose weight in the short-term, you’ll find it difficult to maintain the weight loss over the long haul.

        The fact of the matter is that there is a great deal of money that can be made through the sale and marketing of diet products.  As long as America has a large contingent of overweight people, companies will try to make a profit off of overeating.  It is up to you to be savvy enough to recognize a diet fad when you see it and opt for a different approach to losing weight.  You’ll find that there are really no short-cuts to weight loss.  Any successful diet program takes time, patience, and determination, along with a willingness to change your eating patterns.            

The Detox Diet: Losing Weight the Natural Way

        If you prefer the natural way of life—organic foods, home-grown vegetables, and fishing for yourself—the detox diet may be just what you’re looking for.  This diet plan is designed to rid the body of any toxic materials.  Because of the numerous chemicals that exist in our world, a number of individuals say a detox diet is necessary for good health in the long-term.  With the detox diet, the body rids itself of toxins through the skin and lungs.  The diet may be accompanied by other holistic health techniques, such as the administration of nutritional supplements, hydrotherapy, and physical activity.  

        How, exactly, does the body become contaminated by toxins?  The contamination can occur as a result of food additives, mercury, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco.   Through the process of digestion, the body takes in the toxins.  In addition to promoting weight loss, a detox diet can help heal migraines, stomach trouble, colds, and joint pain.  It may also be effective against heart disease and arthritis.

       You should not start a detox diet without talking to your health care provider.  It may be that you are suffering from symptoms such as pain or fatigue because you have a serious illness that must be treated.  In such a case, the detox diet alone may not be enough to cure what is ailing you.

       A detox diet may not always be appropriate.  But if you believe you have ingested a great deal of chemicals and you find yourself fatigued, the detox diet may be beneficial for your overall health and well-being.   Detox diet enthusiasts say it should be followed at least twice a year in order to improve one’s health.    If you suffer from a specific disease, however, you may need to maintain the program for a protracted period of time.  

        You may notice immediate results from your detox diet.  These results can include enhanced energy, better skin, easier digestion, and clearer thinking.   Once your detox diet is complete, you should attempt to replenish your body with nutrients in order to, in effect, “build your body” back up.

       However, there are certain individuals who do not make good candidates for a detox diet.  These include heart disease patients, cancer patients, and kidney disease patients.   And, while a detox diet can cleanse your body, it should not be considered a substitute for your ordinary medication.  In fact, you should never stop taking medication without talking to your physician first. 

         It should be noted that there are side-effects that have been associated with the detox diet.  These include migraines, skin problems, or fatigue.  Usually, however, these side-effects disappear in time.  As a result, a number of people actually use their vacation time in order to engage in detox so that their work will not be compromised.

       You’ll be happy to know that there are a number of foods you can indulge in while on a detox diet.  These include fruits, vegetables, rice, chickpeas, fish, oil, and herbal tea.  While following the diet, you’ll also need to drink eight glasses of water in order to eliminate waste from the blood.  However, you should not drink immediately before or after your meals.  You should also make sure that you chew your food thoroughly in order to promote proper digestion.

      However, there are also a number of foods that you will have to give up.  These include sugar, milk, eggs, wheat products, gluten, and caffeine-filled beverages.   You must also avoid foods with preservatives, yeast, chocolate, and anything that is high in fat.

       Is it possible to lose weight with the detox diet?  Most definitely.  But you could have a difficult time keeping the weight off since you will eventually have to go off of the diet.  However, it is possible that some of the dietary guidelines that you observe while detoxing will continue long after the diet is over.  Also, just giving up alcohol will ensure that you will lose weight.  For instance, you may find that you simply lose your taste for food high in fat content.   Nevertheless, the detox diet can be quite challenging—especially if you are emotionally attached to the foods that are banned.   Yet, in time, you may decide that going on the detox diet was the best move you ever made.   Related Topics

Childhood Obesity—The Modern Health Dilemma

You see it on the playgrounds, at roller rinks, at swimming pools, and in classrooms.  Obesity is a modern health dilemma for today’s children, who are struggling with weight as never before.  It is a difficult problem to combat, given the fact that you want to make sure that your children are receiving sufficient amounts of nutrients in their diets.  While some children may outgrow obesity, others carry it with them into their adult lives.  Obesity in children can result in feelings of fatigue, worthlessness, and hopelessness.  It can also place them at greater risk for diabetes and heart disease.
          Just how widespread is the problem?  The National Institutes of Health has determined that, over the last thirty years, the number of young people with weight problems has increased two fold.  Interestingly enough, the problem is affecting children of all ages as well as children from all ethnic groups. 
           Children who are overweight may not develop socially as fast as their peers.  They can become loners, finding it difficult to make friends.  They may think that their weight is beyond their control and they may not know what to do in order to attempt to prevent weight gain.  In essence, obese children can become our lost generation.
             The parents of these children may not realize how detrimental obesity is to their children’s emotional health.  They may consider the obesity just a passing phase and they may not understand the psychological devastation that obesity can cause.  They may even dismiss the concerns of their children, hoping that the problem will simply go away.     
             The causes of childhood obesity can be complex.  However, there do appear to be a few identifiable triggers.  For instance, many families now eat on the run because of their many commitments.  Parents may not think they have time to prepare nutritious meals for their children, so they rely on fast food and sugary snacks to fill in the gaps.  As a result, children end up eating a diet that’s rich in fat and sugar but which offers little in the way of nutritional value.    According to the American Obesity Association, one third of parents believe their children’s dietary habits are worse than theirs were during their own childhoods.
               Another key problem is inactivity.  Children watch more than a full day’s worth of television each week.  That’s in addition to the hours they devote to their computers.  As a result, they’re not playing outside as much as children of generations past.  Also, many children may feel as if they cannot participate in sports because of their weight.  Feeling defeated before they even start, they pass up opportunities to engage in physical activities. 
              It has been shown that children tend to be heavily influenced by advertising.  Unfortunately, many commercials tout foods that can be best classified as unhealthy.  Children crave what they see on TV and in movie theaters and they may not realize what these foods will do to their bodies. 
               Luckily, childhood obesity can be successfully conquered.  Here are a few tips to help your child overcome a weight problem:

·        Encourage your child to take part in sports or dance.  If your son or daughter is self-conscious about being a part of a team, exercise with him or her.  Take out a ball and shoot a few hoops or turn on the stereo and begin to dance.  You may be surprised that, with just a little encouragement, your child will get up and start moving.

·        Consider limiting TV time.  Research clearly shows that TV time is unproductive time for children and teens.  If your children spend less time watching TV, they may spend more time exercising.

·        Ban junk food from your home.  With a little push, children will become accustomed to eating healthy snacks such as fruit and vegetables.

·        Check with your child’s pediatrician to see if he or she can recommend some specific weight control strategies. 

         Childhood obesity is a problem, but it is not insurmountable.  The greater the interest you show in your child’s diet and exercise regimen, the more influence you will have over your child.  In time, your child can learn the strategies necessary for a healthy life.

Are You a Carb Addict?

   It has been estimated that three out of every four overweight people are addicted to carbohydrates.  But what does this mean?  In essence, it means that you have too much of the hormone insulin in your system.  This insulin prompts you to eat often and to consume the wrong types of foods.  Some of the tell-tale signs of carbohydrate addiction include fatigue, mood swings, and migraines which can be caused by low blood sugar. 
   A carb addiction can lead you to consume a whole bag of  pretzels at one sitting, or to indulge in half a cake at dinner time.  Your body is conditioned to eat as many carbs as possible.  Thus, it may seem that at times you’re never really satisfied—no matter how much or how often you eat.
   On the official Carb Addicts plan, you eat two meals composed of vegetables and protein; the other meal consists of protein, vegetables that are not filled with starch, and carbohydrates.  During this last meal, known as the reward meal, you can even eat dessert.   The trick is to skip the carbs for two meals each day.
   The authors of the program believe that, if you follow this regimen, you will lose your cravings for carbohydrates in time.  If your urge to consume carbs does not disappear by the second week of the program, they recommend checking your diet to see whether you are following the program closely. 
   With the Carb Addicts plan, like other diet plans, you need to closely monitor your portion sizes.  All of your hard work will be in vain if you allow yourself to overindulge in sweets—even if it is for only one meal a day.  Also, you need to make sure that the protein you consume is not high in fat.  You may want to eat fish, chicken with the skin removed, or lean meats when trying to obtain a protein source.
   Another important aspect of the Carb Addicts plan is that you are not permitted artificial sweetener except during your reward meal.  This can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re accustomed to sweetened coffee in the morning.  However, it can be well worth the deprivation in the long run as you see those pounds melt away.
   There is no set time for the reward meal; however the authors of the plan recommend that the meal take place in the evening.  This is because it can take 12 to 24 hours for the body to overcome carbohydrate overload.  There is also a psychological advantage to having the meal at night.  It gives you something to look forward to all day long.
   You should begin your reward meal with a salad, such as a Caesar salad or an Oriental salad,  then divide the rest of the meal into thirds:  One third should consist of low-carb vegetables, one-third protein, and one-third carbs.  This formula has proven successful in enabling individuals to achieve long-term weight loss.
   As with many other meal plans, the biggest challenge for those who are on the Carb Addicts Diet is the ability to stick with it.  Dieting can be hard work, no matter what kind of rewards await an individual at the end of the day.  Your commitment will enable you to stay with the program, even when it becomes particularly challenging.
   Surf the World Wide Web, and you’ll find a number of testimonials offering glowing reviews of the Carb Addicts Diet.  But you should keep in mind that results can differ from individual to individual.  While some people might see rapid weight loss with the Carb Addicts plan, others may see only moderate weight loss.   The success of the program may depend on your own individual physiology.
   Is the Carb Addicts Diet a fad?  It all depends on who you talk to.  While some people see it as a significant dietary breakthrough, others view it as just a passing fancy.   Medical experts disagree as to whether the Carb Addicts Diet represents sound nutrition.  In the end, you, in consultation with your personal physician, will have to decide whether the Carb Addicts Diet will work for you.        

Don’t Skip Breakfast If You Want to Lose Weight

    In the morning, you may find that you are playing a continual game of “catch up.”  You’re rushing to the shower, rushing through traffic, rushing to work.  You may feel as if you don’t have time for breakfast, let alone a nutritious breakfast.  You may find that you’re just not hungry at that time of day, or you believe that you need to lose weight, so you skip breakfast altogether.  What you may not realize is that, by eliminating breakfast from your morning routine, you’re jeopardizing your health—and your waistline.
    There are a number of good reasons to eat breakfast, particularly if you are a dieter.  To begin with, the very act of eating breakfast can speed up your metabolism, which is critical to weight loss.  Think about it.  You may eat dinner around 6 p.m.  If you wait until lunch to eat again, as many as 18 hours might have passed.  Breakfast is therefore critical to your overall health and well-being.
    Another problem with skipping breakfast is that it tends to make you overeat at lunch.  Studies have shown that the vast majority of successful dieters do eat breakfast.  This may seem counter-intuitive, the idea that you must eat food in order to lose weight.  But the research shows clearly that that in fact is the case.   Breakfast can also aid your concentration.   A number of studies demonstrate that breakfast improves one’s focus, helping him or her at work or at school. 
    The type of breakfast you eat depends upon the diet you are pursuing.  You might choose a high fiber meal, such as cereal, or a high protein meal, such as scrambled eggs and ham.  Your breakfast should contain plenty of vitamins and minerals to help your body remain healthy throughout the day. 
    Another interesting aspect about breakfast is that it is a proven mood elevator.  This is quite important, since it is critical to remain positive when trying to lose weight.  Anything that you can do to lift your spirits—provided that it does not cause you to pack on the pounds—should be considered beneficial.  Also, breakfast sets the pattern for the day.  If you make healthy decisions at breakfast, you’re more likely to make the right decisions regarding the other meals of the day.
    One thing you should avoid at breakfast is eating something high in sugar, such as a sugary breakfast cereal.  While such a meal can lift your energy level temporarily, after a few hours, your energy level will drop again.  While it is always better to eat something than nothing, you should be careful in the food choices you make at breakfast.  
    Breakfast can enhance the efficiency of the body, making it easier for you to burn fat.  This is true for both young and old, so make sure your children eat breakfast as well.    A smoothly-running body is a healthy body and one that is more likely to become lean over time.
    At first glance, there appears to be no downside to eating breakfast.  However, it is important to issue a cautionary note.  Some people use breakfast as an opportunity to binge.  They figure that they can eat breakfast and then skip the rest of their meals.  However, this is not a healthy approach.  In order to work effectively, your body needs to eat regular meals.  Some diets call for three meals a day; others rely on five or six smaller meals eaten more frequently.  In any event, while breakfast may be your most important meal of the day it should not be your only meal of the day.
    Eating breakfast is a habit.  However, if you haven’t eaten breakfast in a while, it may be a difficult habit to get into.  The key to starting a healthy habit is persistence.  Try to eat something every morning, even if it’s only a little something.  Make sure that you have time to actually sit at the table and eat, rather than trying to eat breakfast on the run.  Scheduling time for breakfast means that you have made it a priority in your life.  If you follow this formula, you should be in a better position to lose weight over the long term.

Don’t Skip Breakfast If You Want to Lose Weight

 In the morning, you may find that you are playing a continual game of “catch up.”  You’re rushing to the shower, rushing through traffic, rushing to work.  You may feel as if you don’t have time for breakfast, let alone a nutritious breakfast.  You may find that you’re just not hungry at that time of day, or you believe that you need to lose weight, so you skip breakfast altogether.  What you may not realize is that, by eliminating breakfast from your morning routine, you’re jeopardizing your health—and your waistline.
         There are a number of good reasons to eat breakfast, particularly if you are a dieter.  To begin with, the very act of eating breakfast can speed up your metabolism, which is critical to weight loss.  Think about it.  You may eat dinner around 6 p.m.  If you wait until lunch to eat again, as many as 18 hours might have passed.  Breakfast is therefore critical to your overall health and well-being.
         Another problem with skipping breakfast is that it tends to make you overeat at lunch.  Studies have shown that the vast majority of successful dieters do eat breakfast.  This may seem counter-intuitive, the idea that you must eat food in order to lose weight.  But the research shows clearly that that in fact is the case.   Breakfast can also aid your concentration.   A number of studies demonstrate that breakfast improves one’s focus, helping him or her at work or at school. 
            The type of breakfast you eat depends upon the diet you are pursuing.  You might choose a high fiber meal, such as cereal, or a high protein meal, such as scrambled eggs and ham.  Your breakfast should contain plenty of vitamins and minerals to help your body remain healthy throughout the day. 
              Another interesting aspect about breakfast is that it is a proven mood elevator.  This is quite important, since it is critical to remain positive when trying to lose weight.  Anything that you can do to lift your spirits—provided that it does not cause you to pack on the pounds—should be considered beneficial.  Also, breakfast sets the pattern for the day.  If you make healthy decisions at breakfast, you’re more likely to make the right decisions regarding the other meals of the day.
                One thing you should avoid at breakfast is eating something high in sugar, such as a sugary breakfast cereal.  While such a meal can lift your energy level temporarily, after a few hours, your energy level will drop again.  While it is always better to eat something than nothing, you should be careful in the food choices you make at breakfast.  
                  Breakfast can enhance the efficiency of the body, making it easier for you to burn fat.  This is true for both young and old, so make sure your children eat breakfast as well.    A smoothly-running body is a healthy body and one that is more likely to become lean over time.
                    At first glance, there appears to be no downside to eating breakfast.  However, it is important to issue a cautionary note.  Some people use breakfast as an opportunity to binge.  They figure that they can eat breakfast and then skip the rest of their meals.  However, this is not a healthy approach.  In order to work effectively, your body needs to eat regular meals.  Some diets call for three meals a day; others rely on five or six smaller meals eaten more frequently.  In any event, while breakfast may be your most important meal of the day it should not be your only meal of the day.
                Eating breakfast is a habit.  However, if you haven’t eaten breakfast in a while, it may be a difficult habit to get into.  The key to starting a healthy habit is persistence.  Try to eat something every morning, even if it’s only a little something.  Make sure that you have time to actually sit at the table and eat, rather than trying to eat breakfast on the run.  Scheduling time for breakfast means that you have made it a priority in your life.  If you follow this formula, you should be in a better position to lose weight over the long term.

Carbs: The Good, the Bad, and the Healthy

Carbs are a part of nearly every dieter’s vocabulary.  A number of diets are famous for fighting carb consumption.  But you should know that not every carbohydrate is created alike.  While it is true that you can lose weight by cutting carbs, carbs are also necessary for a good diet. 
        To begin with, we should define our terms.  Carbs are derived from a number of different sources.  They are present in bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.  There are also a number of different types of carbs.  For instance, carbs come in the form of sugars, starches, and fiber.
          For the most part, the digestive system divides carbs into sugar molecules which can be taken into the bloodstream.  The majority of carbs are transformed into glucose or blood sugar.  In this way, carbs provide energy for our bodies.   Those who lack sufficient carbs in their diet may suffer from fatigue.  
         Carbs can be filled with nutrients.  For instance, fruit contains vitamins A and C, fiber, and folate.  Vegetables are also a good vitamin and fiber source; in fact, they usually contain a greater variety of minerals than other foods do.  Whole grains can provide you with fiber, protein, and B vitamins.  Legumes can provide you with protein, iron, and potassium.  
          But carbs can also be potentially bad for your health.  For instance, cookies, potato chips, and soft drinks also contain carbs in the form of sugar and flour.  You should know that refined carbohydrates have been linked with diabetes and heart diseases, making these carbs a dangerous choice.  There are a number of good reasons to ban these carbs from your diet.  For instance, they are extremely high in calories and offer little in the way of nutrients.   Because they contain no fiber, they will not keep you satiated.  In fact, such carbs offer you zero nutrients, but plenty of fat.
           Therefore, you should avoid processed grains and sugars.  Instead, eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to maximize your nutritional intake.   Instead of eliminating carbs completely from your diet, simply ban those that increase the size of your waistline.
             There is another way to think about carbs.  You can generally divide them into two categories: simple and complex.  A simple carb, such as sugar, promotes weight gain.  As a result, you should select low-sugar foods, especially low-sugar beverages.  In contrast, complex carbohydrates promote weight loss.  Health experts recommend that dieters consume between 55 and 65 percent of their calories from these types of carbs.  Such carbs include fruits and vegetables and a number of other natural foods.
      But it isn’t enough to simply eat fruits and vegetables.  You also need to avoid fattening sauces and condiments such as mayonnaise and butter.  By adding butter to your broccoli or mayonnaise to your potatoes, you can raise the calorie amount exponentially, sabotaging your diet.
        The U.S. Department of Agriculture promotes a food pyramid that recommends as many as eleven servings of bread, pasta, and cereal.  However, a number of dieticians are suggesting that Americans should cut the carbs—period.  In one poll, 81 percent of the respondents said they were abiding by a low-carb diet. 
          It is interesting to point out that neither the American Heart Association nor the American Diabetes Association believes that the glycemic index should be considered when following a weight loss plan.  While the Diabetes Association concedes that various foods offer different glycemic responses, the Association’s leaders believe the most critical factor is the number of carbs rather than the form of the carbs consumed.  
         Granted, dietary information about carbs can be confusing.  However, a number of dieticians say that, while you might not want to cut carbs out of your diet entirely, you should eat carbs only in moderation.  Health experts also say that you should limit your carb intake to good carbs and pass up the bad ones.  By following such a plan, you should have energy—but you shouldn’t pack on the weight.  It may be difficult at first to follow such a diet plan, since many of us are conditioned to eat bad carbs in order to elevate our moods.  In time, however, you may find that you enjoy the fruits and vegetables you’re eating, and you may not even miss those tortilla chips.

The Atkins Method: Is it Right for You?

Over the years, the Atkins plan has become synonymous with weight loss.  Fans of the program say that it has proven to be instrumental in helping them to shed unwanted pounds.  They talk of improved overall health and greater energy as a result of the Atkins program.  However, critics maintain that Atkins could lead to heart damage, making it an unhealthy diet. 

         Supporters of Atkins say just about anyone can slim down using their program.   However, there are certain people that are most likely to benefit from the Atkins plan.  These include yo-yo dieters, who find themselves losing weight, only to gain it back again; dieters who feel constantly hungry;  and those who eat for emotional reasons.  Binge eaters and constant snackers can also benefit from the Atkins program.   In addition, those who suffer from a food addiction are prime candidates for Atkins.

        Atkins relies heavily on proteins and fats, along with carbohydrates that are rich in nutrients.  The idea is to strictly reduce the amount of non-nutritious carbohydrates you consume.  The theory behind this is that, when carbs are restricted, you end up burning fat rather than glucose.   In addition, it has been shown that, all things being equal, you will lose more fat with Atkins than with other types of weight loss plans.

          The Atkins plan is divided into four stages.  During the initial stage, your body moves from burning carbohydrates to burning fats.  You should also be able to kick the sugar habit during this stage.  During the second stage, your weight loss will accelerate, but you will also be able to eat larger portions of vegetables.  In the third stage, known as pre-maintenance, you will continue to add more foods to the mix.   The final stage involves lifetime maintenance.   During this phase, you can continue to fight food addictions, maintain your goal weight, and decrease the chance that you will suffer from diabetes.

       However, it can be difficult to stick with the Atkins plan.  This is because the temptation to eat carbohydrates and sweets is so great.  Friends and relatives can become diet saboteurs, preventing you from achieving the results you’re looking for.  In this case, the best defense is a good offense.  This means telling your significant others in advance that you’re determined to complete the Atkins program.  Inform them that you don’t want to even be offered French fries and potato chips. 

         The Journal of the American Medical Association has suggested that the Atkins plan can be dangerous for children.  This is not surprising, considering that young people are still growing and need all the nutrients they can get, whether the vitamins and minerals are from carbohydrates or other sources.  Supporters of Atkins say that, while children may not benefit from a restriction of vegetables and fruits, they could consume fewer potatoes and breads and still remain healthy.

        Some medical experts say that the Atkins approach is not appropriate for people who already suffer from kidney or liver trouble.  Also, because Atkins reduces the amount of fruits and vegetables an individual consumes, the diet can leave people at greater risk for such problems as cancer and heart disease.  As a result, you should probably check with your family physician before resorting to the Atkins plan, or any other low-carb, high-protein diet.

           It is likely that the Atkins plan will remain controversial for the foreseeable future.  While it has been proven effective in helping people lose weight, it may also place individuals at a higher risk for serious diseases.  A great deal of additional research needs to be conducted in order to determine if Atkins is a miracle cure or a medical nightmare.  Once more studies are conducted, the long-term effects of Atkins on the human body may be easier to determine.    If you are generally in good health and have a normal energy level, you might give Atkins a try.  If, however, you suffer from any serious diseases, or are experiencing symptoms such as high blood pressure, you might consider an alternative diet plan.  In the end, you, in consultation with your doctor, will have to determine the diet program that’s appropriate in your particular case.  

The Atkins Method: Is it Right for You?

     Over the years, the Atkins plan has become synonymous with weight loss.  Fans of the program say that it has proven to be instrumental in helping them to shed unwanted pounds.  They talk of improved overall health and greater energy as a result of the Atkins program.  However, critics maintain that Atkins could lead to heart damage, making it an unhealthy diet. 

     Supporters of Atkins say just about anyone can slim down using their program.   However, there are certain people that are most likely to benefit from the Atkins plan.  These include yo-yo dieters, who find themselves losing weight, only to gain it back again; dieters who feel constantly hungry;  and those who eat for emotional reasons.  Binge eaters and constant snackers can also benefit from the Atkins program.   In addition, those who suffer from a food addiction are prime candidates for Atkins.

     Atkins relies heavily on proteins and fats, along with carbohydrates that are rich in nutrients.  The idea is to strictly reduce the amount of non-nutritious carbohydrates you consume.  The theory behind this is that, when carbs are restricted, you end up burning fat rather than glucose.   In addition, it has been shown that, all things being equal, you will lose more fat with Atkins than with other types of weight loss plans.

     The Atkins plan is divided into four stages.  During the initial stage, your body moves from burning carbohydrates to burning fats.  You should also be able to kick the sugar habit during this stage.  During the second stage, your weight loss will accelerate, but you will also be able to eat larger portions of vegetables.  In the third stage, known as pre-maintenance, you will continue to add more foods to the mix.   The final stage involves lifetime maintenance.   During this phase, you can continue to fight food addictions, maintain your goal weight, and decrease the chance that you will suffer from diabetes.

        However, it can be difficult to stick with the Atkins plan.  This is because the temptation to eat carbohydrates and sweets is so great.  Friends and relatives can become diet saboteurs, preventing you from achieving the results you’re looking for.  In this case, the best defense is a good offense.  This means telling your significant others in advance that you’re determined to complete the Atkins program.  Inform them that you don’t want to even be offered French fries and potato chips. 

     The Journal of the American Medical Association has suggested that the Atkins plan can be dangerous for children.  This is not surprising, considering that young people are still growing and need all the nutrients they can get, whether the vitamins and minerals are from carbohydrates or other sources.  Supporters of Atkins say that, while children may not benefit from a restriction of vegetables and fruits, they could consume fewer potatoes and breads and still remain healthy.

     Some medical experts say that the Atkins approach is not appropriate for people who already suffer from kidney or liver trouble.  Also, because Atkins reduces the amount of fruits and vegetables an individual consumes, the diet can leave people at greater risk for such problems as cancer and heart disease.  As a result, you should probably check with your family physician before resorting to the Atkins plan, or any other low-carb, high-protein diet.

     It is likely that the Atkins plan will remain controversial for the foreseeable future.  While it has been proven effective in helping people lose weight, it may also place individuals at a higher risk for serious diseases.  A great deal of additional research needs to be conducted in order to determine if Atkins is a miracle cure or a medical nightmare.  Once more studies are conducted, the long-term effects of Atkins on the human body may be easier to determine.    If you are generally in good health and have a normal energy level, you might give Atkins a try.  If, however, you suffer from any serious diseases, or are experiencing symptoms such as high blood pressure, you might consider an alternative diet plan.  In the end, you, in consultation with your doctor, will have to determine the diet program that’s appropriate in your particular case.  

No SLR no bag only a go heart。

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The Secrets to Weight Loss After Pregnancy

   Sarah is a pregnant mother of three who continues to breast-feed her 18-month-old.  After each of her pregnancies,  she has had difficulty losing weight.  With all of her responsibilities, weight loss isn’t a priority.  Still, she wishes that, once this pregnancy is over, she will be able to return to her pre-marriage weight.
   The average woman gains more than 25 pounds during her pregnancy.  The procedure of childbirth may result in a weight loss of up to 14 pounds, which means that new moms still have considerable weight to lose once they leave the hospital.   However, some women simply assume that this “baby fat” will never go away.  Yet, it is entirely possible to lose weight during the post-partum period.

    A number of medical experts recommend easing into a weight loss program after the birth of your baby.  This means that you will not start dieting until about three months following birth.  You should combine a low-fat diet with moderate exercise in order to achieve weight loss.
    Don’t expect instant results.  It will take you a good nine months to get back to your weight prior to pregnancy.  A go-slow approach is best because you need to give your body time to recover after childbirth.  Certainly, you might be able to lose weight faster, but you might be sacrificing valuable nutrients as a result. 
    Interestingly enough, breastfeeding actually enhances weight loss.  The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has found that breastfeeding leads to the release of hormones which enable your uterus to return to its normal size.  However, breastfeeding alone won’t bring down your weight.  You need to combine it with a sensible diet and a moderate exercise program.  Keep in mind that you need to have at least 1800 calories a day while breastfeeding in order to keep yourself and your baby healthy.  Still, stay clear of junk food during this period.  You should rely on food with high nutritional value to maintain the proper level of calories each day.
    There are many good reasons to exercise during the post-partum period.  In addition to helping to accelerate weight reduction, exercise can help alleviate post-partum depression, improve your mood, and boost your confidence.   Exercise can also “clear your head” so that you’re better able to meet the demands of motherhood.  You might consider joining a “Mommy and Me” exercise class so that your baby can exercise right along with you.  Another helpful hint is to enlist the help of a friend or relative to act as your exercise buddy so that you’ll have some emotional support while exercising.  An added bonus of exercise is that it should boost your energy level, which is quite important when battling the fatigue which comes from caring for a newborn.
    Your diet should generally be low-fat but not fat-free; vitamin rich; and high-fiber.   Under no circumstances should you go on a fad diet.  Such a diet could be quite harmful to your health and could actually slow your recovery from childbirth.  It’s a good idea to set weight-loss goals, but don’t go overboard.  Recognize that there’s a limit to the amount of weight you can lose during a given period of time.   
    You may see a number of actress-moms gracing the covers of magazines shortly after the birth of their children.  They appear svelte and elegant, totally devoid of baby fat.  In the accompanying article, they may even talk about exercising right after childbirth.  Such articles send new mothers a dangerous message:  that you must do all you can to become thin as quickly as possible after your baby is born.  Such a philosophy is not only ridiculous, it’s also unhealthy.  As a result, you’ll need to “tune out” such messages from the media and stay the course with your own gradual weight loss plan.
    The time right after the birth of a child can be quite challenging, taxing both your physical and emotional strength.  While it is certainly a good idea to eat healthy, you’ll need to pace yourself as far as weight loss is concerned.  Over time, you should be able to lose the weight you gained during your pregnancy.   In fact, you might find that you’re actually healthier after your baby is born.  

Food Addiction: A Craving You Can’t Seem to Control

You may overdose on potato chips or tortilla chips once in a while, but would you consider yourself to be a food addict?  The answer is important, because it could be the key to determining what course of action you need to take in order to lose weight.  A number of medical experts say that food addiction is just as serious as nicotine or cocaine addiction—and can potentially be just as deadly.

         When you suffer from food addiction, you have an overwhelming desire for a particular food.  The desire is so strong, in fact, that if you are unable to consume that food, you suffer from withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and depression.   Food addicts crave the comfort that a particular food gives them.  They also may engage in binge eating.   Their cravings for food may be both physical and psychological.

       It should be pointed out that there are different varieties of food addiction.  For instance, there is compulsive overeating, where an individual goes on eating binges that can last several days.   The addict may sometimes lose weight, but tends to gain it back again.   Symptoms include eating quickly, compulsively eating alone, and eating when there is no evidence of hunger.

         Yet another form of addiction is bulimia, in which an individual overeats, then purges either by vomiting or by taking laxatives.   Signs of this condition include isolating oneself when eating, trying to consume huge portions of food rapidly, and being preoccupied with one’s weight.

         Food addiction can also come in the form of anorexia, where an individual attempts to starve oneself in order to achieve an unrealistic weight.  Anorexics tend to be 15 percent below normal body weight and have a phobia about being fat.  They have difficulty eating with other people and appear to be obsessed with weight.  They may engage in ritualistic behavior involving food and may suffer from depression.

      The good news is that food addiction can be successfully treated.  This treatment can come in a variety of forms.  A food addict may work with a psychotherapist to develop new ways to deal with food and his or her emotions.  The therapist might be able to identify the source of the individual’s fear or anger—the reason behind the individual’s addiction.   In the majority of cases, the psychologist will help the individual to develop a treatment plan which spells out expectations and goals, both for the short-term and the long-term.   In the most serious cases, an individual may have to undergo in-patient treatment at a psychological facility.   Treatment often involves helping the individual to return to healthy eating methods, dealing with the underlying emotional causes of addiction, and learning effective coping techniques.

           Food addicts often follow the tenets of the same kind of 12-step program used by alcoholics.  This involves admitting their powerlessness over food, their belief that they could be restored to sanity, and an admission of their faults and failings.  In addition, food addicts often draw strength from support groups made up of people who have similar difficulties dealing with food.  Just knowing that there are other people who face the same challenges can be incredibly therapeutic.

       It is unclear at this point whether food addiction is a genetically-based illness.  Certainly, however, there is evidence of eating patterns being passed down from one generation to the next.  In fact, many food addicts may only seek help after they have determined that their illness could adversely affect their children.

       It is entirely possible that a food addiction can never be cured, that it can only be treated.  In other words, the recovery period for the addiction can last a lifetime.  However, one should never lose hope of beating a food addiction.  With patience and with time, individual addicts can learn the behavioral skills which will enable them to keep their weight under control.  Of course, there will be times when individuals will be tempted to indulge in sweets or excessive carbohydrates.  However, knowing the pain that they will undergo if they continue their harmful eating habits could be just the incentive they need to stay the course. 

When You're Lonely on Your Birthday

There are certainly a plethora of reasons to be happy on your birthday and there are many ways to go about celebrating. But what happens if you have recently experienced the death of a family member or what happens if your husband or wife died many years ago? If those are some of the same situations that you've had on your plate then you may be experiencing a whole lot of sadness, grief, and perhaps loneliness. Furthermore, if you have never married then you may be experiencing loneliness also. The fact of the matter is that there are various reasons for which you could be feeling lonely on your birthday. However, there are plenty of ways to overcome this loneliness. Nobody should have to feel lonely on their birthday, but if you do, here are some tips to staying upbeat and positive:

The Power of People

If you are feeling down in the dumps on your birthday for one reason or another then the number one tip is to surround yourself with some important people in your life. These can either be coworkers or close friends that know your inner secrets. Chances are that if your friends know you very well then they'll know that you are usually down on your birthday anyway. But the secret here is to surround yourself with these people because chances are that they truly want to help.

Along with surrounding yourself with people comes the next tidbit of information: throw yourself a party and invite friends over. The number one way to combat loneliness and depression is to actually do something about it. Throwing yourself a birthday party is one of the best ways that you can possibly think of to get over the lonely feelings that you're having. The party doesn't have to be anything extraordinary, either, but just some rough outlines of what you want to do at your personal birthday party with your friends!

Just Go Shopping!

There is a very important phrase that has nothing to do with being lonely on your birthday, but the phrase is "Money Can't Buy Happiness." However, it wouldn't hurt to go shopping and splurge on yourself if you're feeling lonely. Even though going shopping will not help with the problem of loneliness, it definitely will help you feel better in some aspect about yourself and your situation. After all, buying birthday presents doesn't just have to be something that other people do for you, but you can get yourself what you've been wanting for a long time!

The number one thing to remember on your birthday is that the occasion is all about you. Yes, it is perfectly okay to remember those who have left you in some manner or another, but feeling down and lonely definitely won't solve the problem. Since it's your birthday the best thing to do would be splurge on yourself, hang out with the close friends that you have, and try to be in a good mood for your special day!

What to Buy for your Child's First Birthday

Let's face it: your child's first birthday is probably one of the most important birthdays that you'll be helping them to celebrate. Whether they eventually remember their first birthday down the road is a whole different story, but your child's first birthday is an occasion and something that should be cherished for the rest of their lives. Since it is such a big and special occasion then naturally you will want to make sure it's a day that you and your son or daughter never forget! Amidst the other children抯' presents that they'll give to your son or daughter if others are invited, there are some special birthday presents that you should buy for your son or daughter's first birthday that will be a big hit no matter who they are!

My Little Pony

When your child is about one-year-old then this will be about the time that he or she will begin to hold his or her head up perfectly, as well as crawl all over the place. One of the major things that you'll want to make sure that your child has is a small rocker that he or she can ride all by himself! Your one-year-old child will be so proud of himself that he'll be able to rock back and forth on the toy that you bought him and he'll want to do it over and over again!

A Savings Account

Even though this is something that won't be as important to your child right now as it is to you, you definitely don't want your child to be without a college education in today's day and age. A savings account is the perfect birthday gift to start on his or her birthday and it should be continued throughout the time the child turns 18. If you do decide to start your child out with a savings account for his or her first birthday then putting $500 or $1,000 into it is an excellent start for their future. Of course you'll want to get your child other toys and such things for their first birthday along with this savings account, but this is a great gift to invest in for your child's future!

Educational Toys

There are all sorts of educational toys out on the market today and there continues to be new toys like this that come out every once in a while. If you are one of those parents who are big on your child starting to read or develop early then educational toys for their birthday is a perfect way to get the ball rolling.

Of course, you may have to be limited in the educational toys that you get for your child's first birthday since they really won't be able to do a whole lot of interacting at this age. Buying him or her a sophisticated play mat with blocks and learning toys are products on the market aimed right at your child for his or her birthday.

All of these things are great ways to start out the traditions for your child's birthday! By getting him or her birthday gifts that they'll appreciate now and later, like a savings account, you'll be dong a huge favor for your child and your child will have a Happy First Birthday!

Throwing Yourself Your Own Birthday Party

Usually birthday parties are thrown by the friends and family members of the birthday guest of honor, but that is not how it always has to be. There are many cases in which individuals choose to throw their own birthday parties and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. If you have no one else to spend your birthday with, though, you can always decide to throw yourself a birthday party and have a good time! Who says that you can't go to the movie yourself to have a good time on your birthday? The honest truth is that there are plenty of things that you can do by yourself on your birthday and you don't have to have anyone else with you to do them.

The best part about throwing yourself a birthday party is that you can do anything you want and not feel bad about it. For example, if you want to get bloated with pizza you can. One of the best ways to throw yourself a birthday party is to have a movie marathon day. Going out to rent several movies, ordering pizza, and buying candy is the best way to go if you're going to spend the day at your house just relaxing on the couch. If you're a guy, or a girl for that matter, you can always buy a pack of beer or alcohol and spend the evening on the couch sipping alcohol with your favorite movies and television shows!

Upsides to Your Own Birthday Party!

There are also some upsides to throwing yourself a birthday party and not inviting anyone else. The first upside is that you absolutely don't need any invitations at all. Since you are the only one that's going to be at your birthday party then you don't need to worry about any invitations or any RSVP cards. Another upside to being the only participant to your birthday party is that you don't have to decorate if you don't want to. In fact, there's no reason to decorate because you're not going to have anyone see them anyway.

A third upside to the whole throw-yourself-a-party birthday is that you can do whatever you want whenever you want. If you have a planned birthday party with friends and family then chances are that you'll have to stick with what they want to do. On the other hand, not inviting anyone else over means that you can do whatever you want and can even go out to a bar or a club if you want to. All things considered, there are virtually no downsides to throwing yourself a birthday party!

Birthday Party Essentials

Of course, you don't want to miss out on all the birthday party essentials even though you are going to be the only one at your party. For example, you'll definitely have to buy a birthday cake so that it'll actually feel like your birthday! One thing that you'll miss out on, though, if you don't invite anyone over for your birthday is the opportunity for someone to sing the song "Happy Birthday" to you. Even though that's not a huge part of your birthday, it will still be missing from your special day.

All in all, though, having yourself your very own small and relaxing birthday party is just something that everyone needs every once in awhile. If you are tired of all the hype and commercialization of birthday parties in the store then this may be your perfect opportunity to kick back, relax, and enjoy your own birthday!

Throwing a Surprise Birthday Party

Surprise birthday parties are always a fun way to celebrate your or somebody else's birthday. Of course, if you are going to throw a surprise birthday party then it may be a little strange to throw one for yourself. Nevertheless, people do throw themselves surprise birthday parties every once in a while, even though the great majority of the time they are thrown for other people.

If you are excited about throwing your best friend a surprise birthday party then chances are that you've thought about just how you're going to do it. However, if you've never ever thrown anybody a surprise party then you may be a little confused or worried as to how you are going to pull it off. Fortunately, here are some tidbits of information to go off of when planning this big hit:

Involve Many, Many People

It may go without saying but birthday parties are always more fun when they involve a whole lot of people. A surprise birthday party just wouldn't be as fun if it was just you and one other person. But inviting more people can also help get a lot more things done than if it was just yourself. By inviting more people to the surprise birthday party for your friend or family member then you easily delegate out some of the responsibilities of actually planning and making the whole birthday party come together to be an awesome evening of fun! For example, you'll need plenty of decorations, food, and door prizes, as well as music and entertainment if the surprise birthday party is going to be a success!

Decorate, Decorate, And Decorate!

Of course, this also may go without saying, but anytime you want to throw a surprise birthday party then you definitely need lots and lots of decorations. Depending on where the location you are holding the birthday party at then it may be easy or more difficult to decorate. However, you'll want to have plenty of balloons, streamers, as well as Happy Birthday banners to hang up so that it'll feel like a lot of hard work and planning went into this surprise birthday party!

The Trick of the Surprise Birthday Party!

The main element, of course, of the surprise birthday party is the actual surprise for the person that you are holding it for. You definitely don't want the birthday guest of honor to know that anything is going on, so you may have to have a co-conspirator in the surprise birthday party planning take your friend or family member out that day so that plans can be made and the house or other building can be easily decorated.

Surprise birthday parties are always a whole lot of fun and these are just some of the things that you need to have an awesome one for your family member or friend. Decorations, keeping it a secret, as well as inviting plenty of people to celebrate this special occasion are all essential elements of the surprise birthday party!

Special Birthday Traditions

Everyone in the world certainly has some special birthday tradition that they hold dear and that they've practiced in their family for as long as they can remember. In the United States, birthdays are certainly a special occasion and are made so even more by the family and friends that we celebrate them with. Youngsters always have special birthday blowout parties, while older adults find themselves doing something special on their birthday as well.

However, have you ever wondered about some of the birthday traditions and how they got started? Why do people get "spanked" on their birthday, for example? What's the significance of the birthday cake and how did it get started? There are actually many things that we do on our birthdays, especially in America, which we may be totally clueless as to how the tradition started. Well, if you are wondering why we get "spanked" and how the birthday cake became popular then keep reading as we will debunk these mysteries as well as tell you about some of the other interesting facts about birthdays.

Why do we get "Spanked" on our Birthday?

Children are the ones that typically get spanked on their birthdays as adults are much too old for this kind of ritual. However, if you have ever wondered why children get the number of spanks as they are for each year they've turned, you may be interested to know that this tradition started a long time ago with some early folklore. Children would typically get spanked on their birthdays because people were actually afraid of death. People believed that spanking would toughen your body up so that you wouldn't die. Now how's that for an interesting story?

How did the Birthday Cake originate?

The birthday cake did not originate in America as most people would have thought. In fact, most people don't even give a second thought to the people who actually started this tradition. As it turns out, in the early times Greeks made round cakes (which later became called "Birthday Cakes") to symbolize the moon and the candles on the cake would symbolize the moon's brightness. Even more interesting, though, is that they were actually praying to the goddess of the moon when they did all of this on their birthdays. So Americans can thank the early Greeks for contributing to the tradition of the Birthday Cake.

Another interesting Birthday Tradition

Religious traditions are always interesting to read about, but one of the most interesting of all traditions comes from the Pagans. Paganistic individuals actually celebrated people's birthdays but not for the sole purpose of having a good time. These people thought that parties full of celebration and laughter kept evil spirits away, which is why they celebrated birthdays!

All of these little known facts are pretty interesting stories about birthday traditions and folklore. So the next time you celebrate your birthday just think about all the small traditions that you continue to do and how they actually got started.

Popular Kids' Birthday Party Themes

There are thousands of ways to celebrate your kids' birthdays and if you are a new parent then you are certainly welcoming yourself to a whole new world! Many excited young kids of elementary age always are interested in the latest and most popular new cartoon on television or the latest gadget or movie that they saw! If you are about to throw your child a birthday party for him or her with all of their friends then there are some excellent birthday party themes to go with!

Superheroes Galore!

Whether you are having a boy birthday party or a girl's birthday party there are superheroes to meet every need. For example, parents can choose to throw their boys a Superman, Batman, or Spiderman themed birthday party, while girls have the option of the Powerpuff Girls, Power Rangers, or Cat Woman to choose from for their birthday party!

If you are going to have a superhero themed birthday party, though, there are some essential things that you need to make it happen. For example, if you're throwing your son a Superman birthday party then you may consider buying all the birthday guests a Superman cape to wear while they're there. Additionally, if you're throwing a Batman birthday party then you can more than likely find some batman eye costumes. Girls?birthday parties are easy too, though. Infiltrating the birthday party with lots of pink and other girl colors will be certain to attract applause from all the kids. There are all sorts of ways to think creatively when dealing with superhero birthday parties and these are a couple ways to have a great party!

The Latest and Most Popular Cartoon Themed Party!

If your son or daughter is not interested in superheroes then he or she may love some of the cartoons that are on television. For example, Spongebob Squarepants is a popular cartoon that a lot of youngsters love to watch! If you want to go with that type of a theme then you could decorate your entire house to go along with the Spongebob Squarepants cartoon show! For example, a real life replica or Spongebob's pineapple that he lives in could be made. Other artifacts of the show could be produced and everyone who attends the birthday party could receive a Spongebob Squarepants DVD to take home.

Of course, there are plenty of other ways to have a kids-themed birthday party. You could make up the theme yourself or you could even enlist the help of the little birthday boy or girl to help plan the whole party! For example, you could create your own character or even just decorate the entire house with one color and make that the theme of the birthday party. All it takes, though, is a little creativity to make your son or daughter's birthday party a smash hit with them and their friends Superheroes, television shows, cartoons, as well as other creative themes will make for a great time for kids' birthdays!

Making Personalized Birthday Party Invitations

Whether you are inviting close family members, extended family members, or even your friends to your very own birthday party then chances are that you'll want to let them know in a creative and fun way that you are going to hold a birthday party! There are many ways to do this, ranging from calling them on the phone and letting them know personally all the way to sending out actual birthday party invitations with an RSVP card and everything. Suffice it to say that there are plenty of ways to create your own birthday party invitations. Here are a few extra special and creative ways, though, to make sure that everyone knows about you special day!

Ring, Ring, Ring!

As mentioned, one of the ways in which you can let everyone know about your birthday party is through a phone call. However, the manner in which you do this is the way in which it can be turned into a creative announcement. For example, speaking to everyone you would like to invite individually can be fun, but a more fun way to announce your birthday party is through phone call announcements.

For example, the first step to creating your phone call birthday announcements is by recording yourself on a recorder. You can make a short announcement about your birthday party or you could make up another creative script that tells about your birthday party. You'll want to make sure that you include all the pertinent information, such as where it will be held, what time, as well as what to get you for your birthday gift! These phone call announcements sure will be cute, fun, and a good time for your guests to hear!

Email Birthday Party Invitations

This is another unique way to announce that you are going to hold a birthday party for yourself! You could either write out a regular email to all your family and friends that you're going to invite or you could do this in another creative way. For example, sending out Happy Birthday e-cards to everyone is a cute idea to announce that it's going to be your birthday and that you are going to throw yourself a great birthday party! As with the phone birthday invitations you'll want to include all of the same information like where it'll be and what to bring, if anything.

When sending out email birthday announcements and e-cards you always have the option of being more creative than just telling people over the phone when your big day will be! Not only that, but they are fun methods, too!

Of course, the tried and true method of announcing your birthday party is always still available; however, many people nowadays seem to think this way is boring. Also, by following the suggestions above just think about how many trees you'll be saving! Nevertheless, making phone birthday party invitations or announcing it by email are two great ways to let your family and friends in on the fun!

Important Birthday Milestones

Unless you are a total downer then you are probably among the billions of people who celebrate their birthday every year. Birthdays are a fun event to be celebrated and there are a dozen ways in which your birthday can be turned into an awesome day for everyone! There are definitely some important birthday dates, though, and these usually revolve around a special birthday tradition for the age that you're celebrating. Chances are that you already know about the birthdays that you have celebrated, but here are some important birthday milestones for the ages that you have not quite reached yet!

Your 16th Birthday Milestone!

When your young and in high school many people could not wait for their 16th birthday! In many of the States in America age 16 is the age at which you can officially get your drivers license and go out driving without your parents. Many high school students continue to celebrate their 16th birthday by taking road trips during the Summer or during Winter or Spring break if their birthday falls during the school year. An even more important concept is parents who buy cars for their children at this age because a car is an excellent gift for a 16th birthday!

Your 18th Birthday Milestone!

This is an even more important birthday milestone just because of the fact that many young adults can't wait to graduate high school and leave the house that they've lived in all their lives so far! The 18th birthday signifies freedom, usually maturity, as well as independence for most people.

Your 30th Birthday Milestone!

Some people don't consider their 30th birthday to be all that of a big deal, however, some men and some women do find it a little disheartening to turn 30. Sometimes it means that they're on their way to being old-aged and other times individuals may become a little depressed over the thought of their goals that haven't been accomplished yet. Turning 30, though, doesn't have to be all gloom and doom and should be celebrated!

Your 50th Birthday Milestone!

This is another birthday that may have some gloom and doom along with it and it may perhaps be followed by a short mid-life crisis. As with your 30th birthday, though, age 50 should be celebrated. It shouldn't be a sign that you're getting older; on the other hand, you should look at it as though you are getting wiser and smarter than the younger people on the planet!

Your 75th Birthday Milestone!

Even though some people may not make it to 75, you may be reminiscing at this point if you have reached age 75. Many elderly people think back to the good days when they were young and would relish the thought of being 20 again!