Using Weight Loss Drugs Helped Me to Diet Safely

extra pounds? Sometimes, I got so disheartened by all the fancy new fad diets and miracle cures, because it didn't seem to matter what I tried, I just couldn't lose an inch. Ok, so that's a little exaggeration, but I really have followed through on some of these diet and exercise regimes only to show minimal results from maximum effort. After giving known diets and exercise a fair crack at the weight loss whip, I decided to take a cautious look into weightloss drugs.

Most of us have heard the horror stories regarding the long term use of diet pills and the like, so although I was a little uncomfortable with the idea of using any kind of weightloss drugs, I thought little harm could come out of a bit of simple research. My thoughts on these have changed somewhat since looking up some facts online regarding drugs to loose weight.

One of the first things I discovered is that it's foolish to use weight loss drugs purely for trivial cosmetic purposes. Folks that just need to loose a little excess fat for bikini season or similar, should simply work out and eat right for a few weeks. Weightloss drugs are mainly for folks who suffer from obesity, but even then, they are used in conjunction with, and not instead of, more traditional weight loss programs. So, the misconception that you can watch the pounds just drop off while slouching in your favorite arm chair eating donuts, just aint gonna work.

In actual fact, weightloss drugs work their best when used in combination with healthy diet and regular exercise. There are basically 2 types of weightloss pharmaceuticals: Drugs that reduce the dieter's appetite and those that reduce fat-absorption. I also discovered that weightloss drugs are pretty low risk when taken under medical supervision. That is, prescribed by your doctor if he or she thinks your condition warrants them, and monitored for effectiveness and potential side effects.

So what are the potential side effects? Well, some of the most common may include such things as headache or dizziness, restlessness, tremors, nervousness or anxiety, insomnia, dry mouth, diarrhea or constipation. There are more serious though rarer complaints, which is why anyone should consult their doctor prior to making any decisions regarding the use of weightloss drugs for diet. Don't forget to ask the doctor for a list of the potential side effects of any drugs he might recommend too, this way you'll be better able to make an informed choice.

I'm happy to report that I've been on a weight loss program of action for a few months now, and I'm seeing great results for my efforts at long last. My doctor had prescribed me some weightloss drugs and also referred me to a nutritionist. I have a healthy eating plan, a regular exercise regime, and a controlled use of diet pills for a duration. I'm one happy camper, but I can't stress enough the need to get professional advice prior to taking any course of weightloss drugs or new eating patterns.

Linda Fletcher is a proficient writer and webmaster for Slender Folks dot com where she writes on such issues as The Zone Diet and The Free Diet Plan. She also has many other health and weight loss related pieces on the site.

Fill-Up, Not Out For Weight Loss

Hello, my friend,

I guess you could call me a simple kind of girl.

I love simple. I hate complicated. Complicated confuses me.

For too many years the food-weight-health connection seemed so complicated, and more than a little confusing.

Sound familiar?

And then one day I had an “ah-ha” moment—took me long enough.

It started with a very simple question:

“Which foods prevent cancer?”

Simple answer: “Whole, fresh fruits and vegetables, of course—everyone knows that.”

The next simple question:

“Then why weren’t we taught as children to fill-up on whole fruits and vegetables?”

Good question, don’t you think?

After years and years of reading and research, I have never ever, not even once, heard that steaks, hamburgers, ham, chicken, turkey, cheese, yogurt, spaghetti, brown-colored white bread, pizza, French fries, dried-up cereals, milk, pastries, chips, sweets, or even coffee (ouch—that one hurt) prevent cancer?

Have you?

Yet, those were the very foods that filled our lives and our bellies every day and almost every meal.

I know I’m simple, but that just doesn’t make sense.

And this is even more confusing.

If we all know now how good fruits and vegetables are for us, then why do we still banish them to the sidelines while making meat, dairy, refined breads and cereals, processed foods, and salty and sweet snacks our starting star players?

Now that’s quite the stumper question, isn’t it?

So I’ll ask it one more time: “Why aren’t we filling up on the disease warriors—fruits and vegetables—instead of the disease fertilizers when we know better?”

Simple question with a not-so-simple answer as you and I both know.

The bottom line is: it’s tough to change habits, likes, and dislikes that have been deeply grooved into our minds and lives since birth.

Besides that, sickness and diseases happen to other people—not to us. We just don’t connect the dots between what we eat and how well and how long our bodies serve us—until “it” happens to us.

Let’s face it. We all love the foods our mamas and our culture taught us to eat. They are mmmm-mmmm good! They are our buddies, our good friends. They offer that warm, fuzzy feeling for any and every occasion, happy or sad.

The thought of giving them up makes us dig in our heels even deeper, just like a bratty little kid: “No way!” we say.

B-I-N-G-O! I’ve got a very simple idea—that’d be me—simple.

Instead of thinking about what you “have to” give up to lose weight and gain health and a fit body, how about this?

Think about what you “get to” add. Completely sidestep that place of deprivation and sacrifice.

How about adding the best-for-you foods? Fresh fruits and vegetables. And, while you’re at it, fill-up on these foods; satisfy your hunger drive.

Simple suggestions to ponder:

=>For breakfast: ADD and fill-up on fresh fruits throughout the morning. No, not just a half of a banana or one apple, but enough whole fruits to satisfy and fill you up. (Of course, watch it if you have diabetes.)

=>For lunch: ADD and fill-up on a large green-leafy salad with at least 10 different vegetables, like two kinds of lettuce, spinach, sprouts, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, onion, avocado, radishes, broccoli, or whatever you like.

=>Try a salad dressing made with no oil—even olive oil (I know, it’s confusing, isn’t it?) adds layers to our layers and makes us ripe for diseases. I use freshly squeezed half of a lemon and balsamic vinegar. Yes, it takes some getting used to, but once you do, it’s good—huh, Jean? (Jean finally tried it and actually liked it—a lot.)

=>For dinner: ADD and fill-up on a vegetable salad first, then ADD steamed vegetables second, then ADD a yam or potato topped with pureed avocado, tomato, onion, and seasoning of your choice.

AFTER filling up on nutrient-rich, calorie-low (hint: vegetables are KEY in weight loss and health gain) whole plant foods, if you choose to eat one of your traditional favorites with calories, fat, and/or cholesterol, then have at it. The beauty is: you will automatically eat less of it keeping you on track for your own personal weight loss, health, and fitness goals.

=>For snacks: ADD fresh fruits, cut-up vegetables, and uncooked, unsalted nuts and seeds.

There you have it, my friend. Eating for your ideal YOU is really this simple. Think addition, not subtraction.

We make it complicated, especially we women. I know—as a mother of three grown kids, I’ve been there, done that, not doing it anymore.

I love the freedom of simple: no complicated recipes, no long hours at the grocery store, no fussing over what you’re going to eat the next meal, no big prep work, or messy clean-up.

And the best part: no baby-sized portions that leave you hungry and desperate for more. Eat until you’re satisfied and full—what a novel idea!

Think like me: simple.

Which foods prevent cancer, along with most of the other life-robbing diseases? Your true friends—fruits and vegetables.

Fill-up on those foods.

You will be thrilled with the results of simple thinking and simple actions: Steady, but sure weight loss, along with a higher level of health, fitness, energy (fruits and vegetables are our best sources of energy), activity, purpose, and joy.

“Body first, everything else second; or there are no seconds.” – Dr. Leslie

Dr. Leslie Van Romer is a health motivational speaker, writer, and lifestyle coach. Visit www.DrLeslieVanRomer.com for more inspiration.

About Pregnancy Calendars

A pregnancy calendar is a fun and informative way to keep track of your pregnancy and ensure a healthy outcome for you and your baby. For most women, pregnancy and birth is one of the key points in life and a pregnancy calendar will help you live the experience to the fullest. Detailed week-by-week information about the bodily changes happening to yourself and your baby, as well as handy advice regarding everything from nutrition to exercise, are just some of the things pregnancy calendars have to offer.

Standard features of most pregnancy calendars include: how to take care of yourself throughout each stage of pregnancy; tips on how to meet increasing nutritional needs while staying physically fit; and how much weight you should gain during pregnancy. Some may also include a detailed outline of your baby's weekly development and instructions from the experts on how to ensure that you both progress the way that you should. Many pregnancy calendars can be customized to fit your own unique personality and include spaces for a diary and a record to keep track of doctor's appointments and other important dates.

Pregnancy calendars are fun to use and, best of all, they are often free or cost a minimal amount. Many internet sources offer free downloads of pregnancy calendars and a simple online search will reveal dozens of choices. Most can be personalized and some websites will even send you e-mail alerts as important milestones draw near. Some pregnancy-related or Women's and Children's Health magazines offer a free pregnancy calendar to paid subscribers.

Huggies offers an excellent pregnancy calendar while American Adoptions has an online version accompanied by weekly updates. American Baby and Pregnancy Weekly both have calendars that are available online and can be personalized. Baby Fit features a week-by-week, development-specific pregnancy calendar while Baby Center has create-your-own pregnancy calendar options and tools. The choices are endless and the results amazing. Many people treasure their pregnancy calendars as keepsakes or use them to compare with future pregnancies.

Most pregnancy calendars are very simple and user-friendly. Anyone can understand them and the facts are presented in a clear-cut, down-to-earth manner. The hardest part for most people is calculating the due date, but this is usually provided by your physician. Even if it is not, most pregnancy calendars include instructions on how to calculate the due date that are easy to understand for even the most math illiterate person.

Pregnancy is no longer just a 9-month waiting period for the big day. With the help of a pregnancy calendar, expectant mothers can become actively involved in all the exciting changes of pregnancy, while at the same time benefiting their health. A handy source for expert advice, it can also do much to alleviate anxiety, as the due date looms closer. The truth is, a pregnancy calendar is just one excellent way to make the most of your pregnancy.

Celia Nemart writes about family and medical issues on the internet, Celia is a dedicated mother that is aware of the dangers of the lack of information about Pregnancy Calendar and pregnancy.

Weight Loss : The Top Ten Things You Dont Want to Hear About Losing Weight

The Top Ten Things You Dont Want to Hear About Losing Weight

(But What You Need to Know if You Want to Get Fit!)

10) No, you won't end up looking like the latest hot young model/singer/actress!

Let's face it: your body is your body. It's the only one you've got. Can you still look great? Sure! But there are some things you can't change. You can't make your legs longer or your feet smaller. You can't grow five inches or elongate your torso. You have what you have, so work with it! Concentrate on making a healthy and fit you instead of wishing you looked like someone else. You don't have to be perfect to be attractive. A strong, fit body as well as the self-confidence it brings can make any person attractive!

9) It's better to be muscular and weigh more than to be flabby and weigh less.

I've said it so many times: I'd much rather be 135lbs and muscular than 120lbs and flabby. I've been both, and 135lbs with a lower percent of body fat was definitely better! I was smaller, stronger and had much more energy. So, don't always seek that magical number on the scale, but look at your total body composition instead.

8) You can't get fit in a week.

Okay, well, you can, but only if you're one week away from being in peak condition and you keep working out. Otherwise, forget about it! If you want to look good for that class reunion or because you'll be in a bikini soon, then get moving way before that. Or better yet, get moving for your own health and not for "things" like reunions and bikinis.

7) You need to put some effort into it.

You want to get fit? You have to work at it. You have to plan it, you have to schedule it, and, most importantly, you have to do it. No excuses. Sitting on the couch, telling yourself you should be doing something will not burn up a lot of calories. If nothing else, get out there and start walking. And while you're out there walking think about a plan of action for a healthier you and get started on it today - not tomorrow!

6) You need to exercise.

Can you lose weight just by diet alone? Sure, you can! But if you want to get fit, you need to exercise those muscles, including your heart. And that heart won't get any exercise if you're sitting on the couch, eating broccoli. Lose the weight that you need to lose and you'll just end up with a thin, but flabby, body. Get moving! Weight training is ideal, but if you're really not into weight training, find an activity you like to do that work all your major muscle groups.

5) You need to eat properly.

Putting aside any low carb/low fat/high protein controversies, the simple fact is, if you want a fit body, you need to nourish it. Protein, carbs and fat are important, but vitamins and minerals are key elements that your body needs, too. No matter what way of eating you're following make sure you're getting enough vitamins and minerals. Add a variety of fresh vegetables and fruit to your diet. The next time you go grocery shopping, linger around the produce section and not only pick out some old favorites, but experiment a little by trying something new!

4) You can't lose weight overnight.

You didn't gain it overnight -- or in two months -- and you're not going to lose it overnight -- or in two months. Think of getting fit as a train leaving the station: you start off slow, gather speed and then off you go! Patience is the key here. Look for consistent trends. If you're really not losing fat and getting stronger after a couple of months, then you need to sit down and honestly analyze what you're doing. Keep a journal to help you know how you're really eating and exercising.

3) You can't spot reduce.

Genetics will decide where the fat will come off. Doing 1000 crunches won't reduce your belly fat. Nor will 1000 leg lifts get rid of the fat on your inner thighs. Your body does not burn the fat it needs from the body part that you're exercising. Your body will burn fat much like an onion is peeled, a layer at a time, if you will. So, don't overdo it on the exercise for one specific body part and look to getting your whole body in shape.

2) There are no quick fixes.

That's right, you heard me. There are no quick fixes. None. Put all those pills, potions, contraptions and miracle diets in the garbage where they belong. Learn the basics about how your body gains muscle and loses fat, so you won't get sucked in by another scam again.

1) Fitness is a lifelong commitment!

So, you faithfully work out and eat properly and you've reached your goals. Now what? Well, now you've got to keep doing it for the rest of your life, that's what! You can't just work your way to being fit and then stop, because you'll end up exactly like you were before. Fitness is a lifelong commitment. And, you want to know a secret? It isn't easy! And anyone who says it is easy is trying to sell you something. Make fitness a lifelong ambition and you'll reap the rewards of a long and healthy life, filled with energy, strength and an overall sense of well being.

Suzanne Hiscock has been interested in fitness and nutrition for over 16 years.  She is the owner of FitWatch Inc. and developer of the FitWatch Fitness Tracker, an online food and exercise tracker.  You can visit the site at http://www.fitwatch.com for a variety of fitness calculators and tools.

How You Can Erase Low Back Pain Using the Latest Medical Techniques!

"If you're one the nine out of ten adults in the United States who suffers from low back pain, I have good news for you!" states Dr. Nathan Wei, a board-certified rheumatologist and Clinical Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland.

"Low back pain is the most expensive work-related injury as well as the third most common reason for a surgical procedure," Dr. Wei adds.

The spine is a complex collection...

It consists of bones, called vertebrae, and the joints that allow them to interact; discs that separate the vertebrae from each other; the spinal cord and nerves; the soft tissues such as muscles and ligaments that help hold the spine together. Your spine has 3 major functions including protecting the spinal cord, supporting the body in an upright position, and allowing the body to move freely.

The four major categories of low back pain are:

? Mechanical- arising from either trauma or repetitive motion

? Degenerative- usually from arthritic causes

? Systemic- arising from medical illnesses

? Stress-induced

Mechanical causes are responsible for more than 90% of back pain and the most common cause of back pain is probably muscle injury due to strain or sprain. Other common causes include disc herniation, spondylolisthesis (a condition where the vertebra slips on the one below it), spinal stenoiss (narrowing of the canal that carries the spinal cord), scoliosis (curvature of the spine), osteoporosis (a disease where the bones become fragile and break), and arthritis. Bone tumors are another potential cause.

"Treatment is entirely dependent on diagnosis!"

Dr. Wei says, "There are simple ways to help your back. For instance use the log roll technique to get into and out of bed. Think of your body as a log, and make sure you move it as a unit... rolling into and out of bed."...
He says, "use the same idea when getting into and out of your car. Don't twist or stick one leg one way and the other leg a different way. Move your body as a unit..."

Check your work area

Make sure your computer, chair, and other parts of your work environment are "friendly" to your back. Good support for your low back as well as your legs is important.

Exercise regularly

Dr. Wei reminds us, "...Stretching is important for your spine?Since rotation is a key movement and the upright position is part of our daily routine, we need to incorporate exercises that stretch and strengthen those muscles that are important for twisting and for posture."

Space Age Treatment

"A new addition to our low back pain tool kit is a procedure device called intervertebral disc decompression or IDD. It helps decompress the vertebrae non-surgically, and non-invasively. Studies to date have shown a response rate of up to 86%," adds Dr. Wei

Dr. Wei concludes, "Surgical procedures are a last ditch effort...and should be reserved for patients who have pain unresponsive to conservative treatment or who have a progressive neurologic problem."

Dr. Wei (pronounced "way") is a board-certified rheumatologist and Clinical Director of the nationally respected Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and has served as a consultant to the Arthritis Branch of the National Institutes of Health. He is a Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology and the American College of Physicians.
For more information on arthritis and related conditions, go to:
http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com