Nutritional health is achieved through the therapeutic use of whole foods, safe culinary preparation, and understanding the metabolic impacts of specific dietary frameworks and ingredients.
The Daniel fast is a biblical diet meant to promote health and encourage weight loss through healthy eating. It's modeled after the vegetarian eating regimen of biblical prophet Daniel during his fast. People typically follow it for 21 days to get a jump start on weight loss.
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Available as a dietary supplement, theanine is used to boost focus and concentration as well as to promote relaxation. The amino acid is found in rich amounts exclusively in tea. Research suggests it may enhance brain function and help your body deal with stress.
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Isotonix OPC-3 is a dietary supplement marketed by Market America and made using a combination of bilberry, grape seed, red wine and pine bark extracts, along with citrus extract flavonoids. These extracts contain antioxidant compounds called oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs.
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Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, has been a source of confusion, especially in the dietary supplement industry. Supplements labeled "natural DHEA" have contributed to the misconception that DHEA -- a hormone your body produces -- is found in food.
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Finding a good chewable is a priority for adults who have a hard time swallowing tablets and parents whose pediatrician has recommended chewables for their growing children. The best source for chewable brand recommendations is your health care provider.
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Genetically modified potatoes are on the way to market as of 2015. The U.S. government has deemed GM foods safe, but not all scientists agree.
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Xylitol and sorbitol are sugar substitutes commonly found in foods labeled "sugar free" or "no sugar added." People on a diet, or those with diabetes, may be inclined to choose food and snacks containing xylitol or sorbitol as a way to reduce their sugar intake.
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Sprouts have a nutritional advantage because the sprouting process enhances their nutritional content and digestibility. Fenugreek seeds, which are actually legumes, sprout when they're soaked in warm water. They make a nutritious addition to salads, soups and other meals.
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Bergamot is commonly used to make Earl Grey tea, which is composed of black tea and bergamot oil. The oil is extracted from the rind of the bergamot orange -- a citrus fruit native to Italy -- giving Earl Grey its characteristic flavor. As with other teas, it's likely safe for healthy adults.
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Everyone experiences gas at one time or another. Gas in the digestive tract can cause abdominal pain, discomfort, flatulence and burping. Most people experience mild symptoms related to gas, which is normal. Others have an intolerance to complex carbohydrates.
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The Slimfast plan involves eating two meal-replacement shakes or bars, three healthy snacks and one self-prepared, 500-calorie meal for a total of about 1,200 calories daily. The plan is convenient but may not be for everyone since it has a limited selection of bars and shakes.
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Daily living and disease often trigger the release of inflammatory prostaglandins. Several healthy foods can help you eliminate these harmful chemicals.
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If you're like most Americans, you consume too much sodium. Most of the sodium in your diet comes in the form of salt, perhaps from fast food or processed food, which are both primary sources of sodium.
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The first phase of the Atkins diet, aptly named the induction phase, is more restrictive than later phases and is designed to jump-start your weight loss. You are limited to 20 grams of net carbohydrates each day, which refers to the amount of carbs in a food item minus the fiber content.
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Excessive bloating, burping and passing gas is uncomfortable, but rarely a sign of a serious condition. Certain foods in your diet can cause flatulence -- excess gas in the digestive tract. Antibiotics, irritable bowel syndrome and problems absorbing certain nutrients are other common causes.
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Purine is a compound found in many foods, but mainly those of animal origin. When you consume purine-containing food, your body produces uric acid as a result. This usually isn't a problem for most individuals. Uric acid, however, can become too high, either from reduced excretion or eating too many purine-rich foods.
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Your health care provider may recommend a restricted-fat diet if you have a condition such as gallbladder disease, which makes it difficult to digest fat. Physicians commonly recommend a low-fat diet after certain medical procedures like bowel surgery or cancer treatment.
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While tortillas are a staple of Latin cuisine, people in the United States commonly use them as a bread alternative such as for making turkey wraps. Commercially produced tortillas are typically made using flour and vegetable shortening such as soybean oil.
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Planning meals and making healthy food choices typically centers around nutritional benefits. However, some individuals must make additional considerations when planning meals.
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Because supplements may cause unwanted side effects, it's crucial to be aware of potential adverse reactions so you can make an informed decision. The same is true for Tonalin, a dietary supplement meant to reduce body fat.
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