A woman’s metabolic rate decreases 5% every ten years after the age of 40.  This is a fact!  After turning 40, a woman’s body goes through hormonal and metabolic changes that makes weight control extremely challenging.  We have to consume less just to maintain the same weight.  With the right information you can tune up your body and rev up your metabolism so that you are not consistently gaining weight year after year.

Mitochondria, our internal fat burning factory, slows down after the age of 40.  Cut back on calories to help with this.  Taking in 100 calories less each day can make a huge difference over time.   Also, the more muscles we use, the more mitochondria that builds up in the muscles and the more calories we can burn.  Muscles burn 3 times more calories than fat but as we get older, but we experience a loss of muscle mass.  Therefore, we have to use our muscles, even ones we’ve never used before.  As we increase muscle mass, we can burn more fat.  Another challenge that women over 40 have is that as we get older, our estrogen levels go down which makes our hunger go up.  Bottom line is, we basically have to exercise more and eat less.  We need to consume better foods for our body to help with these challenges and stay away from those that will hinder our will to increase our metabolism.

The following are a few metabolism boosters that are pretty cheap and can help kickstart your metabolism:

Oolong tea which has very little caffeine is a great metabolism booster.

Tomato juice with black pepper is another good one.  Spicy foods in general are great metabolism boosters, but can run high in calories.  So try tomato juice which has licopene in it that protects mitochondria and add pepper for spice that also increases metabolism.

Red, white or black beans are also great because they have certain fibers that lower insulin levels which prevent fat cells from growing.  They also help you feel satiated so you eat less.  25 grams a day is what is recommended.

Ice water is another – drink 8 glasses a day!

Remember, these boosters can help, but you also have to exercise more and eat less.

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Ever wonder about what you hear and if it’s myth or fact?  Well, here are some questions that millions have pondered about and the answers to those questions:

Does crossing your legs cause varicose veins?  The answer is NO!  Varicose veins are entirely genetic and have nothing to do with crossing your legs.  It’s good to keep the blood flow throughout your legs and crossing them doesn’t allow that too easily, but it does not cause varicose veins.

Is the ab roller the best equipment for achieving great abs? NO, neither the ab roller or other types of similar equipment will give you the best abs.  What will, however, are crunches.  Standard crunches will give you the best workout for your abs and they don’t cost a dime!  No equipment is needed!

Are baths unsafe during your period?  NO, there is no risk of infection.  It can actually be very soothing!

Is it okay to eat expired foods?  NO, when in doubt, throw it out!  There are however some differences when it comes to the sell by date, use by date, and best if used by dates.  Here are the differences.  When the product has a sell by date, it must be thrown out about 7 days after that date.  You have about a week to eat the product.  When the product has a use by date, it must be used within 3-5 weeks of that date.  The USDA gives us that extra time with the use by date.  When the product has a best if used by a date, then the taste, texture and quality of the food is guaranteed up until that date.  After that, the manufacturer cannot guarantee its freshness and will not stand by the quality of the food after that date.

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It seems that coconut water is the next big craze in the fitness industry with millions of people choosing this over sports drinks.  There are many celebs such as Rihanna, Madonna, Courtney Cox and Mischa Barton who are public supporters of the drink.  Coconut water  is low in calories, fat-free, and most of all – natural.  It is soon becoming the hottest sports drink out there with it being an excellent source of hydration.  Manufacturers of the product claim that it is a healthy alternative to sports drinks because it not only hydrates, but also helps replenish electrolytes like potassium, sodium and magnesium.  People are calling it Mother Nature’s drink of life!  Moreover, most consumers are choosing this drink over sports drinks because it is not loaded with sugar.

Currently, coconut water is mainly sold at places like Whole Foods and other all natural/organic/high-end outlets, but will more than likely begin to be sold all across the country since its recent popularity.  One thing to watch out for however is the calorie count if you are watching your weight because if consumed in mass quantities, you can certainly pack on the calories!  An average box drink of coconut water contains approximately 150 calories.

So if you are tired of all of those sugary sports drinks and are looking for a healthier alternative, try out this new craze.  Many are on board already. You may be pleasantly surprised with this all natural, delicious drink that is sure to hydrate you during your workouts!

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Tips For Running With Asthma…What You Must Know Before You Begin A Running Program:

Just because you have asthma doesn’t mean you can’t run. In fact, some of the worlds most famous athletes have asthma. Marathon runner Alberto Salazar, former NBA star Dennis Rodman…even track and field Olympic Gold Medalist Jackie-Joyner Kersee …all have asthma. Yet they were able to have very successful careers in spite of their severe asthma.

How?….By controlling their asthma.

When you have your asthma under control…you can develop a running program to build up your stamina and enjoy the benefits of running.

If you are using an inhaler more than twice a week…than your asthma is not under control.

Here are some valuable tips for running with asthma:

Consult With Your Doctor Before Beginning Any Running Program

The first step to gaining control over your asthma is to discuss it with your doctor first. Your doctor can determine if your asthma is allergy or exercise induced. You will need to know what triggers your asthma before you start running.

Start Slowly

Don’t try to run a marathon! Take your time and work up to running farther and for longer periods of time. Your body will have to adjust.

Run Indoors

During cold winter months … a blast of cold air in your lungs can trigger an asthma attack. The best solution would be to run indoors on a treadmill. During the summer if you have seasonal allergies consider running indoors. If you must run outside wear a protective mask.

If You’re A Smoker…Stop!

It may be easier said than done. But choosing to stop smoking can go along way to keeping your asthma under control. Smoking affects your breathing. Stop smoking and you will breathe much better and your ability to run farther will increase over time.

Always Have Your Inhaler With You

If while running you begin to have an asthma attack…having your inhaler with you can save your life. Never run without your inhaler. Make sure you can access your inhaler quickly. Many inhalers can be attached to your clothing via a clip. There are also inhaler that can be worn around your neck.

The Perfect Time To Run Outside

A rainy day with little or no wind is better for running for a person with seasonal asthma. The rain washes away the pollen dust and with little to no wind there’s less worry about pollen blowing around.

Take A Shower!

When you run when pollen is high you can end up with much of it on your skin and clothing. Take a shower immediately to remove any pollen that may be on your skin after your run. Make it a routine to remove your clothes in a specific area of your home where they will be washed asap. This will lessen the possibility of leaving pollen dust all over your home.

These tips for running with asthma are a good start to help you enjoy running safely. Please consult with your doctor before using these tips. Your doctor can create a more specific plan that is best for you.

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Most everyone has experienced some insecurity when it comes to sex at one point or another in their lives. Too many people have anxiety and fear about sex and therefore, have problems with sex.  Anxiety about sex when younger is normal simply because it is something new.  However, anxiety about sex in later years could be for a myriad of reasons.  Some may think it is too infrequent in their lives while others may think they are doing it too much.  Such people who think that they are not the average person when it comes to sex begin to have concerns, and ultimately, come to experience anxiety about sex.

It is important to remember that good feelings are what sex is all about as well as feeling good about yourself and your partner.  Any negative attitudes toward sex can create unnecessary problems.  Women, especially, create problems for themselves when it comes to sex.  Many think that their breasts are either too large or too small or their legs are too fat or too thin.  All of these concerns can have a negative impact on sexual activity and should not be dwelled upon. Rather, how you feel about each other is more important.

When it comes to the female orgasm….everyone is different!  There are some women who are multi-orgasmic and may climax several times during sex and others who cannot have an orgasm during sex which is what most women experience.  Do not feel that you have a problem if this is the case.  Otherwise, more than two-thirds of the women in the world are abnormal!  Basically, it is up to the couple to try different methods that work for them in achieving ultimate pleasure during sex. There are a number of different things to try such as gels, sex toys, etc. to make it more pleasurable for both parties.  You can also speak with a sex therapist if you are experiencing a specific problem that you cannot fix on your own.

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According to many medical experts including Dr. Oz, the best time of day to lose weight and boost your metabolism is first thing in the morning.  Weigh yourself as soon as you wake up when you are your lightest.  Remember to go to the bathroom first.  Then weigh yourself.  This will probably take off a pound!  Do this in the mornings as your weight fluctuates throughout the day and is always less in the morning.

Exercise in the morning after weighing yourself and before you eat. Working out in the morning allows you to burn calories from different parts of your body and burn fat in the process.  Eat immediately after you workout if possible which will be approximately an hour after waking up.  Doing so will allow you to burn much more calories than exercising mid-day or after a meal.  If you must eat in the morning, have a large glass of water with a lite bite to get you through, but do not eat a large meal.  Many people cannot do without coffee either.  If that is the case, then have your cup of coffee, but limit it to one cup and get to your workout.  This will hinder your ability to burn fat, especially around your waist.  So basically, get up, weigh yourself, exercise, then have your breakfast.  This will essentially boost your metabolism.

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High blood pressure is the most common chronic problem, however, it is the most treatable.  Over 40 million Americans have high blood pressure which means more than one out of every ten.  Many people do not even know they have high blood pressure until it’s too late.  Unfortunately, a heart attack or stroke is usually the first indication.

Because high blood pressure is silent and can be treated, it is important to do regular screening.  Early detection is so crucial to avoid serious consequences such as heart attacks and strokes.  Even if you are thin and exercise regularly, you can still have high blood pressure so do not believe that just because you are fit, you can’t get it!  On the other hand, being out of shape and overweight increases your risk of high blood pressure.  For those people, they can lower their blood pressure just by exercising regularly and losing weight.

Drug treatment of high blood pressure can be very effective, but very expensive!  It also carries many risks and side effects.  Reducing salt intake is number one.  This can help significantly!  Relaxation techniques are also very helpful. Most importantly, however, it is imperative that you have your blood pressure checked several times a year.  This is reliable and free!  Blood pressure machines are available in many grocery stores, corporations, public health departments, etc.  It is not necessary to go to the doctor to have your blood pressure checked.  Going to the doctor can sometimes cause your blood pressure to rise due to anxiety so avoid going to the doctor to have it checked if possible.

If your first reading is elevated, do not panic.  Check it again as it can vary up and down.  Most people who have a high reading on the first check show normal blood pressure after subsequent checks.  Remember to relax and lower your salt intake…these two factors alone can really help to keep your blood pressure reading at normal levels!

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Every woman must decide on what type of contraception she will be using.  Whether its abstaining from sex completely or using a contraceptive that is most comfortable.  These decisions can have a major effect on your health and body. Abstinence is the best choice in preventing pregnancy, but is not the most logical.  For many, this is not even an option. Other measures, although more severe for women, are tubal litigation.  Many women who may be having cesarian births opt for this choice if they do not want more children.

The most common forms of birth control for women are oral contraceptives, IUDs, diaphragms.  Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) use hormones to prevent pregnancy and must be taken on a daily basis.  They are very effective in preventing pregnancy if used safely.   Some of the annoying side effects are weight gain, nausea, fluid retention, migraines, yeast infections and vaginal bleeding.

There are also IUDs (intrauterine device).  This is inserted into the uterus by a doctor and remains there until removed or expelled from the body which goes unnoticed.  The IUD can cause cramping and bleeding at times.

Another choice is a diaphragm which is a rubber membrane that fits over the opening to the uterus in the vagina.  It must be inserted before intercourse and retained in place for a number of hours after sex.  There are not side effects or complications with the use of a diaphragm.

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If you are a woman interested in becoming physically fit and toned, you may be wondering what the best butt exercises are to get that tushy looking great.

Many women, when trying to become physically fit often are more interested in honing in developing the lower areas of their bodies. This is opposed to men who usually want strong upper body. The area of interest for most women, are the legs and the gluteus maximus area. In this article, I will go over four of the best butt exercises to give you that toned and sculpted look you are looking for (or what your partner is looking for!). The following ere are the four best butt exercises you can do, in my opinion:

1. Squats

Widely hailed as the King of exercises, squats are the single most beneficial exercise you can do for your body - bar none. They are a total body workout, although their main focus are the hamstrings, quadriceps, and gluteus maximus. Without a doubt, this is one of the best butt exercises to do, if not the best one period. Focus on lighter weight and high reps in order to achieve the toned and sculpted look you are going for.

#2. Lunges

The lunge is a great strengthening and toning exercise that you can do for your butt. In order to perform a lunge correctly, you simply bend one knee forward so touches the ground and then alternate knees. You can do this while holding dumbbells, in order to get more of a workout. You will feel the burn after this exercise – that is for sure, so make sure to work up to it - especially if you are brand new to this particular exercise. Without a doubt, this is one of the best butt exercises.

#3. Leg press

If you are a member of a gym, performing the leg press can be a great way for a firm and toned butt. What you’ll do is simply load the machine with weight - remember, not too heavy at first unless you want to have extremely muscular legs - and then you simply perform high reps with low weight. What this will do is tone your butt. It will burn at first, especially if you are new to this exercise, but eventually you’ll notice your butt taking an amazing shape!

#4. Romanian dead lift

And last but not least, bringing up the “rear” (pun intended) is the stiff legged, or Romanian dead lift. This is a great exercise not only for toning the butt, but for achieving an all-around body strength as well as cardiovascular endurance. To perform this exercise, you will need to put weights under the balls of your feet, so that your heels are lower than the balls of your feet, this will allow the exercise to target the glutes. After that you simply lift the weight up your chest in a slow and controlled manner. Your Reps will vary and you should increase them over time. This will help your butt take that amazing toned shape that you’re looking for!

Getting fit and in shape is not as hard as it seems, it simply takes some perseverance, dedication and the ability to keep going.  I hope these pointers on the best butt exercises help you get moving in the right direction!

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Over 25 million Americans have genital herpes.  It is the most popular of all venereal diseases.  This Herpes type 2 infection is almost always spread by sexual contact and when infected, symptoms are recurrent outbreaks of painful, red blisters.  They are usually triggered by emotional stress or trauma and last anywhere from five to ten days.  Right before an outbreak occurs, you will experience an itchy or tingling feeling.  It is quite unpleasant and very irritating as millions of Americans will attest to.  Unfortunately, there is no cure for genital herpes, but it is not a lethal disease.  Many people living with this disease are living long, and otherwise healthy, lifestyles.

Herpes is most contagious when the blisters are present as well as just before and after they are present.  Avoid sexual contact during this time to prevent transmission.  Condoms will give you some protection as well, but is not a guarantee.  Many people have a false sense of security when using condoms about contracting this disease and they should be aware that it is not a 100% guarantee. There is no drug to cure genital herpes, but there is medicine such as acyclovir and valtrex that will make an initial attack go away much sooner and speeds up the healing process during an outbreak.  These are both oral medications that can have numerous side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, rash, fevers, and even joint pain.  However, it is the only medicine that will really help symptoms disappear quickly.

If you feel that you have been infected by genital herpes, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor and have a thorough examination.  Your doctor will discuss treatment with you at that time in further detail.

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