Different Categories and Paybacks of Weight Loss Shakes

Today a wide variety of nutrients and weight loss shakes are available in the market. Before making a decision which one is best for your lifestyle and diet plan, it is very important to understand the difference between each type of these shakes.

Meal Replacement Shakes - As it is pretty clear from its name that these types of shakes are used to replace a complete meal. That means, generally they are high in carbohydrates, calories and proteins. Though, the fat content in these supplements is usually low. The meal replacement shakes are often fortified with minerals, vitamins and other essential minerals and materials that are necessary to provide a complete balanced and healthy meal. Therefore, these shakes are really very good, if they actually replace the entire meal. The biggest advantage of these meals is that they give you what your body needs and at the same time they do not give add a lot of fats to your body.

Protein Shakes - Depending on different brands and companies, the protein shakes sometimes refer as the weight loss supplements, and that is the point where the confusion starts. No doubt, at most of the times protein shakes help you in losing weight, but it is also true that they can also do the exactly opposite thing. Actually it all depends on which type of protein supplement you choose and after choosing how to use it. Some of the protein shakes have too many calories because they are developed to maintain the intense exercise program and help to build heavy muscles. While on the other hand, some of the protein shakes have a very small amount of calories.

These types of protein shakes are designed to decrease the excessive fat of the body and you can only use this kind of protein shakes as the weight loss supplement. It is also very important to know that all meal replacement shakes contain proteins but not all protein shakes can be used as the meal replacement shakes. So, if you are going for the meal replacement shake then make sure that it contains balanced nutrients.

Low Carb Shakes - These types of weight loss shakes usually contains low carbohydrates and they also have fewer calories as compared to the meal replacement weight loss shakes. Generally, the low carb weight loss shakes are not advisable to be used as the replacement meal, as they do not have enough proteins, calories and carbohydrates to provide adequate or sufficient energy. Though, they can be used as an excellent weight loss shakes.

Pre-made Shakes - Different brand and companies also offering pre-made weight loss shakes which are very convenient and easy for the persons who have a busy lifestyle. These shakes are available in a wide variety of flavors and usually come in the drink sized boxes and cans. Remember, always carefully read both the nutritional details and ingredients before buying any kind of pre-made weight loss shake, because the amount of carbohydrates, fats and calories widely vary between the different brands.

Advantages of Weight Loss Shakes

The weight loss shakes are considered as one of the most diet products that are available in the market. They have lots of benefits that help us a lot in making our lives convenient, easier and healthier. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals. Following are some benefits of using weight loss shakes.

• As we all know that our body absorb liquids more easily and quickly as compared to the whole food or meal, that thing allow you to get maximum benefits from the fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
• These shakes are available in a huge variety of flavors, so you will never ever get bored. You can also make your shake a little more interesting by just blending your favorite ingredients into it.
• The meal replacement weight loss shakes are extremely convenient. These shakes are practical and healthy solution for a person who has a busy lifestyle. They help to keep you away from the different type of fast food and snacks that contains a large amount of calories.

Workouts Lagging? How HGH May Be Able To Help You!

People who are interested in fitness tend to do a lot of reading and research about the latest and greatest exercise programs, diet trends, and supplements. As a result, they eventually tend to come across references to human growth hormone (HGH), and they may even get confused at they read all the difference opinions and advice out there regarding it. With some supplements, everyone is pretty much in agreement that they are helpful. For example, nearly everyone will agree that you need protein in order to build muscle, so protein shakes and supplements are generally considered to be helpful if you are unable to get enough protein from a normal diet. But when it comes to HGH, there seems to be as many different opinions are there are people.

In order to get more information about HGH, let's take a closer look at it. HGH is a hormone that is produced naturally by your body during your life. During puberty, production spikes, which makes sense when you think about all the change that your body goes through during puberty. You get taller, you get bigger, and you get stronger. After puberty, production of HGH decreases, although this decrease doesn't usually become an issue until later in life. HGH plays many roles in the body. It strengthens bones. It increases protein synthesis. It stimulates our immune system. You can imagine that decreasing HGH levels in the body may have some less than desired effects.

Low levels of growth hormone may limit the amount of muscle a person can build. Also, it may contribute to feelings of depression, and may cause the body to hold extra body fat.

Supplementing with HGH can help promote muscle growth as well as fat reduction. Keep in mind, too, that muscle burns more calories than fat, so the more muscle you have, the more calories you are burning. It can also help you recover more quickly from workouts, which means not only will you feel better, but you'll also be able to work out again sooner. It can also contribute to mood elevation which may not only motivate you to work out, but may also help you have more happiness in your daily life as well.

Remember that you should always discuss your workout and supplement questions and goals with your doctor, and that supplements by themselves will not help you achieve your goal without a proper workout program and adequate nutrition.

Natural Treatment Options For Male Hair Loss

With recent advances in hair loss treatments involving highly effective and safe ingredients, hair loss shampoos for men are now available that can repair scalp and hair conditions which inhibit normal growth and cause excess shedding. In addition, these shampoos strengthen the protein structure of the follicle to prevent excessive loss when showering or brushing while also providing follicle nourishing agents that promote health and fullness. The best of these shampoos are free of paraben and lauryl sulfate, which some studies say can contribute to the problem

Reasons why men suffer from thinning hair and hair loss are numerous. Common reasons include hereditary, hormone imbalances, hypothyroidism, excessive use of dyes and chemicals and autoimmune diseases such as alopecia areata. Experiencing chronic stress can also cause men to lose hair due to the immune system being compromised and damaging the overall health of the body.

When used regularly, hair loss shampoos work to restore normal hair growth by replenishing damaged hair with vital nutrients and amino acids, moisturizing a dry scalp and deep-cleansing hair follicles and roots. Additionally, all hair loss shampoos for men utilize anti-DHT agents to prevent testosterone from interacting with an enzyme called 5a-reductase. When these two chemicals meet, the result is a hormone and enzyme hybrid referred to as dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. This binding of testosterone and 5a-reductase harms hair follicles and produces an action called "miniaturization".

Miniaturization of hair follicles forces them to shrink, which also shortens each of the three stages of the hair growth cycle. As a result of miniaturization, the circumference and length of hair decreases, losing its ability to remain strongly rooted. DHT can also inflict permanent damage on hair follicles, eventually disabling them so that they no longer produce hair. Baldness resulting from a DHT-related condition is called androgenetic alopecia..

Fortunately, DHT does not damage every follicle, but only targets follicles containing androgen receptors. These androgen-receptive hair follicles are usually located along the temple, near the back of the head and at the temple, which is why many men suffer a pattern of baldness referred to as "horseshoe" baldness, rather than complete balding.

Other ingredients found in these shampoos for men include:

• Niacin
• Zinc
• Panthenol
• Folic acid
• Biotin
• Saw palmetto berry extract

All of these ingredients contribute to restoring normal scalp and hair health by enhancing moisture content, promoting the hair's protein complex, increasing thickness and luster, eliminating detrimental scalp conditions and preventing miniaturization from occurring. Additionally, the ability of a male hair loss shampoo product to extend the growth phases of hair also plays a vital role in reversing hair thinning in men.

Why The Female Body Requires Calcium And Magnesium Citrates

The nutritional demands of the female body change with the passing of every year. As the body grows older, some vitamins are required in more specific quantities than others. Calcium and magnesium citrates are some of the minerals that are harmful to the good health and greatest functioning of a female body. Most women opt for supplements to make sure the body receives them in adequate quantities.

Vitamins and mineral supplements for women are the easiest way for the body to absorb the nutrients, especially when faced with food restrictions. An importance source of calcium is milk and milk products. However, several women are lactose-intolerant and face severe reactions to curd or milk. Similarly, one of the richest sources of magnesium is found in almonds which are a problem for women who are allergic to nuts.

It is important to keep up a regular supplement intake of calcium and magnesium citrates as their deficiencies can result in a number of health problems for women. One requires calcium for maintaining and building healthy bones. It is important to know that taking this nutrient only increases with the increase in age. Although women might consume calcium-rich foods, their absorption is also affected with the intake of alcohol, carbonated drinks and caffeine.

The importance of magnesium for women is often misunderstood as it is not only beneficial for the teeth and bones but also plays a major role in maintaining calcium levels, and the health of kidneys, muscles and the heart. The nutrient assists producing energy and activating the enzymes.

The main health risks women face with a deficiency of calcium and magnesium citrates are chemical imbalances resulting in mood swings and osteoporosis. The latter is one of the most common problems faced by women as they grow older due to bone deterioration. This makes bones highly brittle and prone to fractures. Although several women opt for calcium supplements, the body can absorb it better when combining certain supplements.

There are several pharmaceutical companies that manufacture different types of dietary supplements today. Before deciding to buy and consume a particular brand of these supplements, make sure they are approved by the FDA. It is also important to check with a medical doctor to avoid untoward accidents such as drug reactions, especially if the patient is on other medications.

Calcium and magnesium citrates are some of the most essential nutrient supplements women should include aside from their diet to maintain healthy bones, teeth and optimal function of the heart. As the requirements of the nutrient amounts change as the body ages and especially during and after childbirth, it is important to check for deficiencies.

The Amazing Health Benefits Of The Prickly Pear Cactus

Most people think of cactuses as those strange looking spiky plants that live in pots on people's window sills. Whist these smaller cactuses are often used for decorative purposes around the house, some of the larger types that are native to the desert have many health benefits.

One particular cactus that is renowned for its health benefits is the Prickly Pear cactus.

The cactus thrives in desert locations and both the pads and the fruit are edible, often being made into jelly's and jams. The cactus continues to be a food staple for the people who live in desert areas in the South-western United States.

Adding the highly nutritious Prickly Pear cactus into your own diet, will provide you with numerous health benefits.

About The Cactus

It's real name is the Nopal cactus and it has long been used as a traditional medicine throughout Mexico for treating diabetes. It was also used traditionally by native Indians for the treatment of burns.

Today it still used as a medicine amongst natives and can also be found in a number of juices. Although there have not been many human studies to discover the full benefits of the Prickly Pear cactus, people who drink health drinks containing the cactus juice have praised the way the products have given them a noticeable health boost.

Medicinal Uses

The cactus is most commonly used to treat type II diabetes, due to its ability to lower blood sugar levels.

Other conditions it is used to treat include the following: 

• Obesity
• High cholesterol
• Colitis
• Diarrhoea
• Viral Infections
• Benign prostatic hypertrophy
• Constipation

Another of the main benefits is the plants ability to naturally reduce inflammation throughout the body. As inflammation is a large contributor to conditions such as heart disease and arthritis, it is thought that the properties of the plant may help to protect against such diseases.

Vitamins

The Prickly Pear cactus is also a great source of health boosting vitamins. It contains vitamins A and C as well as numerous B vitamins.

Vitamin A promotes healthy lungs, eyes and intestines and also helps to protect against cancer cells forming.

Vitamin C is required so the body can heal when wounded. It is also a powerful antioxidant.

B vitamins are essential for producing energy in the body and are also required to create new cells.

Adding the cactus to your diet is a great way to ensure that you are getting the daily recommended amount of each of these vitamins.

Prickly Pear Cactus Juice

The easiest way to add the plant into your everyday diet is to purchase a juice that uses the cactus as its main ingredient.

There are a few juices out there which contain it; however, it is important that only natural ingredients are used in the formula.

Although these juices can sometimes seem slightly expensive, the health benefits you receive as certainly worth the cost.

Obtaining the cactus raw is not easily done, unless you live in South-western America, so purchasing a healthy juice that contains the Prickly Pear cactus is the next best thing!

Achieving That Ideal Physique With The Help Of Supplements

With the different types of health scares that beleaguer modern man, people are getting more and more conscious of what they eat. The adage 'you are what you eat' has been literally interpreted by many individuals to a point where they scrutinize each piece of ingredient of the food they eat. They look for the calorie count of the food they're shopping for - and for good reason: the health risks pile up for excess calorie intake for some people since some calories can be stored as fat. And we all know too well how being obese or overweight can be dangerous to our body.

Some people want to lose weight, and some want to gain a few pounds. There are times when the types of food we eat are just not enough to achieve our individual goals for our body, which is why some of us take supplements. Supplements are not necessarily a substitute for food, but are there to help facilitate in losing pounds, gaining them, or keeping them at bay.

In this modern age, shopping for supplements does not require you to get out of your house anymore. You can make a purchase of the supplements you need without the hassles of buying items the traditional way. You can even go to just one website and compare the prices of a slew of brands of various types of supplements - from weight-loss pills to multivitamins to bodybuilding capsules or powders. It's always a good word to the wise, though, to consult with your personal physician first before loading items into your virtual shopping cart. A supplement that's not right for your body and/or age may cause more problems than provide solutions.

Of course, realizing the body you want is not achieved by taking supplements alone. A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and staying away from excesses should also form part of the ideal health program you should get into. No amount of fat-shredding pills, for example, would do the job of trimming down your body weight if you keep taking in foods that are fattening. It would be like washing your face clean and dipping it in mud afterwards. Being fit or staying in shape indeed requires not only a lot of motivation, but plenty of self-discipline.

When shopping for supplements online, be sure to also check on the shipping details. Look for those items that can be shipped for free. Be on the lookout as well for promotional offers like discounts and freebies. Since you're getting something to make your body as healthy as can be, make the buying an enjoyable endeavor as it is economical.

Flu Season Is Fast Approaching - Be Prepared With Natural Remedies

The flu season is fast approaching and it is time to get prepared. Be ready when that first symptom appears. Whether it is the diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, cramps, fever, or the aches and pains, it is always best to treat them the all natural way. There is no need to worry about the side effects of prescription drugs or over the counter medications to treat the stomach flu and ease its symptoms. There is a homeopathic remedy that you can take that does not have any harmful side effects. This all natural healing remedy is called Stomach Flu Fighter.

The Stomach Flu Fighter is safe and non-addictive. It is also an FDA-registered natural remedy containing 100% homeopathic ingredients. These homeopathic ingredients were specially selected to address vomiting, diarrhea and cramps that are most often associated with an inflamed stomach and irritated gastrointestinal tract due to the stomach flu. There are many benefits to taking Stomach Flu Fighter. These benefits include the relief of stomach flu symptoms. It eases diarrhea and upset stomach and also soothes painful stomach cramps and bloating. Stomach Flu Fighter also calms nausea and vomiting, and alleviates fever and its effects. This homeopathic remedy provides fast-acting relief in a concentrated tincture. It is safe for all ages and is also safe during pregnancy and nursing. The Stomach Flu Fighter may be taken at the first sign of flu symptoms. It is taken internally and works quickly to calm the stomach. It is an easy to ingest, hassle-free, liquid formula with no artificial colors or preservatives.

Stomach Flu Fighter is a 100% homeopathic formula. One ingredient is used when addressing gastrointestinal disorders, this remedy helps to calm the stomach and soothe cramps. Also useful in cases of vomiting, indigestion, diarrhea, and cramps from eating too much ripe fruit and vegetables or iced foods.

Another ingredient is a homeopathic remedy used for any condition that acts on the bowels, causing inflammation and cramps. Another ingredient is used for stomach gas complaints or digestive complaints caused by eating rich, fatty or contaminated foods, that cause indigestion and upset in the body. And another ingredient is a homeopathic remedy suited when the stomach pain is better from pressure, doubling over, and warmth, and worse with touch and cold.

Using the Stomach Flu Fighter is very simple. You hold the bottle upside down and let the liquid formula drop directly into the mouth. Or you can dilute the drops in a small amount of water and sip slowly. The dosage is the same for all ages. It is 10-15 drops up to every 20 minutes until symptoms subside. Results are usually experienced upon taking the first dose. It helps to soothe the stomach and help the body to maintain balance within the digestive system and intestines. It contains homeopathic ingredients in a tincture formula that facilitates rapid absorption into the system just when you need it!

Herbal and homeopathic remedies are a smart and safe way to treat your health care needs. While prescription drugs are most often used to just treat the symptoms, natural medicine strives to create a holistic balance in the body. Natural remedies are used to support systemic health, relieve ailments, and help prevent future disease. Unlike conventional medicine, the natural ingredients in herbal and homeopathic remedies supports overall health and functioning instead of just suppressing symptoms. So treat yourself naturally.

Choosing a Sport Supplement for Athletes

There are many forms of supplements for athletes to choose from. One of the easiest forms for an athlete to use is the simple protein shake. These shakes offer different levels of protein depending on how much is needed or wanted. The more protein you have in your shake, the fuller you will feel. It depends on whether an athlete is wanting to bulk up and gain weight, which would call for more protein, or if he is planning to just maintain and perhaps even lose weight, of course this would call for less protein. Either one of these shakes will benefit the athlete in the way they see fit.

Many supplements that are available for use are beneficial in helping the athlete with strength & conditioning. Sports supplements are used a lot in sports nutrition because they make it easier for the athlete to have the time to train without having to stop and consume a meal. They can also benefit the athlete by allowing them to have an easier recovery and mend their muscles if they use the post workout supplements.

For athletes looking to gain muscle there are lean muscle gainer shakes available to them which are sometimes mixed with milk. Mixing it with milk will add the additional calories that will help the athlete gain weight.

The most common ingredient in protein shakes is whey. Soy is also used in a lot of protein shakes and supplements. Athletes can benefit from using whey over soy because whey is more easily digested and recent studies have shown that muscle gain is greater with whey. Whey is better at building muscle, losing fat and improving health than soy. However, if you have no other alternative, soy protein is better than none. If Whey is available, definitely choose it.

Ultimately, there are a ton of supplements for athletes to choose from and each athlete is different in what they are hoping to achieve. Doing accurate research and finding a company that is actually created by athletes is a good start. Each person will have different goals, some to lose weight, some to build muscle, and some to maintain their current body shape. Supplements can help the athlete do all of these things and are very beneficial and make life much easier and probably healthier in the long run.

If you are looking for a way to boost your fitness level and power up in your sport of choice, consider adding healthy shakes or supplements to your current nutrition regime.

A group of athletes who have formed a company called ATH Sports Nutrition helps athletes gain greater benefits by using supplements in their sports drinks that contain 100% all natural ingredients and fruit flavors, without gum fillers and other artificial ingredients. Most other companies are using artificial flavorings and fillers such as gum and some that even contain banned substances. ATH Sports Nutrition is well known for their ATH Recovery shake that is blended at a 3:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein.

How to Use Vitamin and Mineral Supplements for Goal Achievement

Exactly what are vitamins and minerals? From a user friendly perspective, they are the catalysts which help your body and mind to become more efficient, thorough, and long-lasting. Not enough can be said about the benefits you can receive from wise intake of these specialized nutrients.

Life reflects a quest to be the best at what you do and who you are. Almost needless to say, you benefit most proficiently by using nearly every advantage you can muster.

As quietly as it is kept, nutritional supplements actually play a powerful role in the scheme of worldwide progress. Their most outstanding contributions are as follows:

-- They provide the types of energy and power required for optimized personal and physical performance;

-- They help sustain human beauty and the enjoyment of a wonderful outward appearance; plus

-- They preserve health status and maximize the overall quality of living.

For monumental feats of strength, additional supplements like protein powder, for instance, become the primary choice for athletes and highly active individuals from nearly all realms of society. However, multivitamin and mineral health supplements provide their support in a much more unique manner.

Unlike major components such as fats, carbohydrates, and protein, health supplement and mineral supplements tend to yield very little kinetic energy during their breakdown phases. Conversely, vitamins and minerals provide stimulation directly to the enzymes that help extract the energetic by-products of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

In this way, although nutritional supplements are not the DIRECT energy source, they remain invaluable in the attainment and ongoing processing of usable human energy.

Myths about Vitamins supplements and Mineral Supplements...

A popular misconception amongst the masses is that nutritional supplements are a food "substitute." Yet, quite to the contrary, vitamins supplements and mineral supplements work best when combined with fundamental nutritional principles.

In other words, there are basic rules you should still follow in addition to meeting your daily multivitamin requirements. The most forceful of these principles is to wisely combine the three aspects of total fitness:

1. Use adequate rest and relaxation periods, both during exercise routines and throughout your daily career, family, or work-related activities;

2. Exercise slightly beyond your basic comfort level in order to improve your body and mind; plus

3. Eat wisely, which means, include a combination of both basic and specialized food types.

It is within tenet number three above that you may realize... nutritional supplements are not meant to be used in isolation, or as a solitary source for overall health improvement.

Thus, in a very supportive role, vitamin and mineral nutrients assist in providing comprehensive coverage. This type of nutritional "back-up" allows you the ongoing and unfailing ability to grasp nearly any type of energy source needed for the tasks you must perform in your own life.

Nonetheless, perhaps there exists an even more monumental myth about vitamin and mineral supplements. This one is pointed out in research within the fields of alternative and orthmolecular medicine.

That is, the idea that much MORE of a good thing always brings beneficial results should be treated with an element of caution. Simply put, since people feel better with small doses of vitamins supplements and mineral supplements, there are countless individuals who over use or over-consume.

The correct statement is that nutritional supplements, just like nearly any other food energy source, can become harmful with over-consumption.

Efficient vitamin mineral intake is supposed to reflect an act of overall bodily BALANCE. Within such states of equalized energy intake, human beings can optimize their feelings, performance, and stamina.

Elderberry For Colds

Sambucus

, or elderberry, is commonly taken as a supplement to treat the common cold. It is a genus of between 5 - 30 shrubs and trees indigenous to both the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. It is a member of the adoxaceae family, a small family of flowering plants. Elderberry has been used for hundreds of years to treat flu like symptoms. In this article we will discuss elderberry's effects on the immune system and how it treats the common cold.

The "active ingredients" in elderberry are flavanoids, anthocyanins, and lectins. Flavonoids are a class of secondary metabolites. A secondary metabolite is an organic compound that is not directly involved in the growth and development of the organisms it is found in. Anthocyanins are a sub class of flavonoids. They have anti inflammatory properties as well as anti oxidant properties. Lectins have hemagglutinin properties. This means that it causes red blood cells to clump together. The synergy of these three active ingredients is very effective at treating the common cold.

A study concluded at Hadassah University Hospital in Jerusalem, Israel determined that elderberry is effective at stimulating the immune system. In the double blind, placebo based study, there were higher levels of antibodies to the influenza virus in the group given elderberry compared to the group given a placebo. There was also a higher number of cytokines in the group given elderberry. Cytokines are cellular messengers that stimulate macrophages. Macrophages are the "seek and destroy" cells of the immune system.

The most remarkable finding was that elderberry increased the level of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in the group given elderberry. TNF is a type of cytokine that induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in tumor cells. This finding led the researchers to believe that elderberry could be beneficial to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) patients as well as patients with cancer.

Read The Scientific Study Here

The best deal I found on Amazon for elderberry is the Nature's Way brand. For around $8 you get 100 575 mg capsules. The manufacturer recommends taking two capsules two times per day with food. Nature's Way also offers elderberry as a tasty syrup for kids. For around $15 you get eight ounces of elderberry syrup. The manufacturer recommends taking 1 - 2 teaspoons per day for maintenance, and 2 - 3 teaspoons per day if your child is sick. The syrup might be the way to go if you have kids who have difficulty swallowing pills.