Health, Good Practises, and Exercise

[Lioness~]

There’s plenty of more or less good health theory’s out there today.
I’ve studied a LOT the latest ~30yrs around health, yoga, meditation & the consciousness.
It’s of huge interest to me.

Whatever road you take, whatever doctors or wise people you listen to and think, ah, this is the ****, the solution, it might change for you later down the road.
We are all different, and we change too. Our bodies and mind evolves and are put into different challenges through life.
What works great for us in certain periods, may not do it in another period.

I have my own solution, I hardly ever needed doctors. Actually the quite opposite, when I got some meds in a critical situation, it got me really sick. So even a doctor agreed that I probably is allergic to chemicals.
Wonder how many isn’t?
Ah well, I have great dentist. He’s great. He even understand my point of view. More or less.

Ok, there’s a lot of theories. You have to find out what works for you, understand who you are. Nobody can tell you that. It’s what’s life is about. The food might be the 1st to look at when health is going downhill.
But that’s only one thing that affects our health.

What most of those great food consciousness & theories are missing is the mental, emotional and psychology behind it all.
I applaud the increasing knowledge about the gut. Probiotics, probiotics etc are great.
But our gut also rules our sub/un-consciousness. What we don’t actually are consciously aware of.
Lot of people repress a lot, and suddenly things happen and it comes to surface...and no the gut probably aren’t so happy during those periods.

Personally I adjust my intake with what’s going on in life.
If I have a letting-go-cleansing period or a rebuilding period in life. They are intwined sometimes too. But the predominant part guides what food intake, training, meditations is dominant quite a lot.

 

[Huntn]

I’ve always said comparing sugar with artificial sweeteners, pick your poison. However zero calories may be worse for you than the calories and insulin response created by regular sugar consumption.

https://nutritionfacts.org/video/effect-of-sucralose-splenda-on-the-microbiome/

 

[shinji]

I agree. I’m removing possibilities.

I just watched a video from http://cutyourcravings.com/, it’s very compelling. I acknowledge this (if you believe the video) respected doctor (Dr.Gundry) is peddling a pre biotic called Prebio Thrive (https://www.amazon.com/MD-PREBIOTHR...=1525967516&sr=8-5&keywords=gundry+prebiotics)

which provides food for the good microbes in your gut, and many of the things he said caught my attention. He says that the microbiotic in your stomach communicate directly with your brain. The bad bugs ask for junk food. The good bugs ask for healthier food.

Some of the points in this video:

• Lectins are bad for your gut health- Tomatoes, eggplants peppers, beans, potatoes, cashews (although there are suggested ways to prep these items). For example peel potatoes, only eat the pulp of tomatoes.
• Antiobiotics are a disaster- he claims there is a direct link to antibiotics that kill all the microorganisms in your stomach and obesity. After a week of antibiotics it could take two years to regain normal microbiotic chemistry in your stomach. He claims it’s part of the reason for elevated childhood and adult obesity.
• Splenda kills good stomach microbes.
• Yes to Dark Chocolate, wallnuts, pistachios, coffee, olive oil, almonds (ok).
• No to grains, breads, brown breads, cashews, peanuts, Splenda, cut back on meat, most contain low level doses of anti-biotics.

Then there is:

• https://dirtyscam.com/reviews/dr-gundry/
• https://www.highya.com/gundry-md-prebiothrive-reviews
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dietary-lectins

I’m interested in what you all think about his diet suggestions and the idea of taking probiotics. Anyone have experience with this?

I think a lot more research on gut bacteria is needed before we know exactly which treatment is effective and how much of a difference it could possibly make.

 

[Huntn]

I think a lot more research on gut bacteria is needed before we know exactly which treatment is effective and how much of a difference it could possibly make.

I agree. There are many positive testimonies about Prebiotics and Probiotics. It’s hard to say.

I was in Costco yesterday and bought a package of Truenature Probiotics which was reasonably priced. Granted I could be experimenting on myself, but from what I’ve read the worst thing that can happen is the product does not deliver the number of beneficial bacteria to your large intestine as advertised.

Not presented as promotion, just for consideration.

Exploring the role of gut bacteria in digestion
https://www.anl.gov/articles/exploring-role-gut-bacteria-digestion

Everything you need to know about a Lectin-free diet
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319593.php
I eat a lot of grains, but my understanding in cereals, they are cooked which may reduce or eliminate any risk from lectins.

Caffeine and weight loss
http://teeccino.com/building_optimal_health/129/Caffeine-and-Weight-Loss.html (this link from a herbal tea company)
Many people have the popular misconception that caffeine will help them lose weight. Unfortunately, the opposite is true. Drinking caffeinated beverages or taking pills containing caffeine ultimately stimulates increased appetite for sweets and fatty foods. Caffeine triggers a roller coaster ride of elevated blood sugar and stress hormones that thwarts people's efforts on a diet to stick to their regime.

 

[jdechko]

What apps are you all using? I’ve got the LoseIt! App installed for calorie and tracking, but I’m looking to start logging my water intake. Any good recommendations?

 

[fatalogic]

What apps are you all using? I’ve got the LoseIt! App installed for calorie and tracking, but I’m looking to start logging my water intake. Any good recommendations?

Cronometer is my favorite when I feel like tracking.

 

[I7guy]

If you want to lose weight stay away from grains and fatty foods. Vegetables, salads, low fat foods and sea food. I lost 17 lbs with this diet and lots of cardio and weights. I ain’t no spring chicken either. I drink about 6 cups of coffee a day. And I do weight watchers.

 

[Huntn]

If you want to lose weight stay away from grains and fatty foods. Vegetables, salads, low fat foods and sea food. I lost 17 lbs with this diet and lots of cardio and weights. I ain’t no spring chicken either. I drink about 6 cups of coffee a day. And I do weight watchers.

I love cereal for breakfast. This morning had oatmeal. What would be better, healthier for breakfast?

 

[millerj123]

What would be better, healthier for breakfast?

Eggs, bacon, Mimosas, cold pizza with Ranch dressing and the entire leftover chicken from last night. \sarcasm

I've been on a mashed potato/scrambled egg/pepperoni bowl with cole slaw or shredded greens and salsa kick.

I do look for protein and vegetables with some starch to get the day started, along with 2-3 cups of coffee.

 

[I7guy]

I love cereal for breakfast. This morning had oatmeal. What would be better, healthier for breakfast?

Nothing wrong with oatmeal. However for breakfast I have either 0 Greek yogurt like fage with berries and banana. Or eggs in 1 tsp oil with fruit or low-fat turkey sausage links. Lunch is a salad. Dinner some low-fat turkey or ether meat, vegetables and sweet potatoes. Fill in with 100 calories snacks and other inventive goodies throughout the day.

 

[D.T.]

I love cereal for breakfast. This morning had oatmeal. What would be better, healthier for breakfast?

Stick with your healthy, whole grains, unless you're on a serious cut, they'll give you some immediate energy (so they're great before/after a workout). Even on a "low carb" lifestyle (not "diet" by design ...), a few of the right kind of cars provide outstanding side health benefits.

 

[Huntn]

I wonder if there is a distinction between something like oatmeal, and say Chereos? I frequently eat a product labeled as granola- whole grain rolled oats, whole grain wheat, whole grain oat flour, brown sugar, canola oil, chicory root extract, almonds, whey protein, honey, and coconut. This with almond milk and a banana. If you live near a Kroger’s, it’s a Kroger Brand, Oats and Honey Granola.

Eggs, bacon, Mimosas, cold pizza with Ranch dressing and the entire leftover chicken from last night. \sarcasm

I've been on a mashed potato/scrambled egg/pepperoni bowl with cole slaw or shredded greens and salsa kick.

I do look for protein and vegetables with some starch to get the day started, along with 2-3 cups of coffee.

Mimosas, cold pizza? Really now.

Nothing wrong with oatmeal. However for breakfast I have either 0 Greek yogurt like fage with berries and banana. Or eggs in 1 tsp oil with fruit or low-fat turkey sausage links. Lunch is a salad. Dinner some low-fat turkey or ether meat, vegetables and sweet potatoes. Fill in with 100 calories snacks and other inventive goodies throughout the day.

Recently found this muesli recipe that includes Greek yogurt.
https://www.mensjournal.com/food-drink/bircher-muesli
[doublepost=1526128081][/doublepost]

Stick with your healthy, whole grains, unless you're on a serious cut, they'll give you some immediate energy (so they're great before/after a workout). Even on a "low carb" lifestyle (not "diet" by design ...), a few of the right kind of cars provide outstanding side health benefits.

I’m wondering if these grains interfer with losing weight? I’m not on a losing weight regiment as much as I’m just trying to watch what I eat, and cut back on sweets.

 

[D.T.]

I’ve always said comparing sugar with artificial sweeteners, pick your poison. However zero calories may be worse for you than the calories and insulin response created by regular sugar consumption.

Yeah, outside of _maybe_ pure stevia (beware of the brands with additives), you're much better off using a little unrefined sugar vs. pink, blue or yellow Also, check out the fructose content in some alternative sweeteners like agave, even they have a low GI, the net effect in a more general diet (vs. someone who's dealing with a specific condition), is very likely negative.

BTW, a fun, a bit silly at times, but overall pretty fascinating doc on Netflix is titled That Sugar Film, kind of a spin on Supersize Me!, i.e., the lead (and writer/producer) does a specific, negative impact diet for X days, monitors his health/weight, uncovers some amazing things - in this case - about the presence of sugar in _everything_.

The interesting spin about his sugar consumption is it's not done with the usual suspects, like donuts, cookies, ice cream, it's done with "healthy" alternatives. One example: a Jamba Juice smoothie he gets the airport, that does have some fruit, still contained like 90g of sugar.

I’m wondering if these grains interfer with losing weight? I’m not on a losing weight regiment as much as I’m just trying to watch what I eat, and cut back on sweets.

Well, completely removing carbs as other folks have pointed out, can be very effective - but I'd point out what you said in bold. They should be cut completely out, that probably has more impact than a bowl of oatmeal in the morning, and with the scattering of sugars you get in other things, from fresh fruit to pasta sauce, your intake is probably way higher than you realize.

 

[Huntn]

Yeah, outside of _maybe_ pure stevia (beware of the brands with additives), you're much better off using a little unrefined sugar vs. pink, blue or yellow Also, check out the fructose content in some alternative sweeteners like agave, even they have a low GI, the net effect in a more general diet (vs. someone who's dealing with a specific condition), is very likely negative.

BTW, a fun, a bit silly at times, but overall pretty fascinating doc on Netflix is titled That Sugar Film, kind of a spin on Supersize Me!, i.e., the lead (and writer/producer) does a specific, negative impact diet for X days, monitors his health/weight, uncovers some amazing things - in this case - about the presence of sugar in _everything_.

The interesting spin about his sugar consumption is it's not done with the usual suspects, like donuts, cookies, ice cream, it's done with "healthy" alternatives. One example: a Jamba Juice smoothie he gets the airport, that does have some fruit, still contained like 90g of sugar.

I just threw away a bag of artificial sweeteners and a bottle of 5 calorie, cranberry juice, after I read artificial sweeteners kills your good gut microbes and no more Diet Pepsi. This means that I’m now soda pop free. Last trip to the store, I purchased some regular cranberry juice, acknowledging it has sugar in it, and some V8 products, Healthy Greens, which tastes kind of funky, and a bottle of Orange Carrot which I’ve not yet opened.

 

[Falhófnir]

I just threw away a bag of artificial sweeteners and a bottle of 5 calorie, cranberry juice, after I read artificial sweeteners kills your good gut microbes and no more Diet Pepsi. This means that I’m now soda pop free. Last trip to the store, I purchased some regular cranberry juice, acknowledging it has sugar in it, and some V8 products, Healthy Greens, which tastes kind of funky, and a bottle of Orange Carrot which I’ve not yet opened.

I’ve been off diet fizzies since that whole crazy aspartame panic, it’s now been established that you have to drink gallons of the stuff over months and years to feel any real effect, but just got used to not having it and not looked back. Same with regular cola, didn’t drink it for ages and now when I try it, it just tastes ‘wrong’ somehow - really nasty and chemically. I think you definitely get used to things tasting a certain way (food with fewer additives often tastes blander at first I have noticed) and once you’ve experienced the alternative you can kind of tell what’s relatively wholesome and what’s packed with junk that’ll do your waistline no good!

 

[D.T.]

I just threw away a bag of artificial sweeteners and a bottle of 5 calorie, cranberry juice, after I read artificial sweeteners kills your good gut microbes and no more Diet Pepsi. This means that I’m now soda pop free. Last trip to the store, I purchased some regular cranberry juice, acknowledging it has sugar in it, and some V8 products, Healthy Greens, which tastes kind of funky, and a bottle of Orange Carrot which I’ve not yet opened.

We drink different sparking/bubbly water, like La Croix, our grocery store brand, there's dozens of them now, they have a small amount of natural flavors, no sugars or sweeteners, the plain is obviously just ... um, plain/unflavored - what they do for us, is provide more of an interesting beverage experience on occasion vs. flat water. This isn't sweetened type products with "low calories", it's carbonated water with a small dash of fruit flavoring (that we sometimes will enhance with a twist of actual fruit like fresh limes). They're very satisfying!

Some of following a plan is finding interesting and creative alternatives.

 

[Huntn]

We drink different sparking/bubbly water, like La Croix, our grocery store brand, there's dozens of them now, they have a small amount of natural flavors, no sugars or sweeteners, the plain is obviously just ... um, plain/unflavored - what they do for us, is provide more of an interesting beverage experience on occasion vs. flat water. This isn't sweetened type products with "low calories", it's carbonated water with a small dash of fruit flavoring (that we sometimes will enhance with a twist of actual fruit like fresh limes). They're very satisfying!

Some of following a plan is finding interesting and creative alternatives.

Kroger’s also sells flavored sparkling water. I just need to make sure it’s minus the artificial sweeteners.

 

[D.T.]

Kroger’s also sells flavored sparkling water. I just need to make sure it’s minus the artificial sweeteners.

I bet, it's like the new "hot market", so there's tons of options, even Pepsi has a product line called bubly.

Oh yeah, so what you want is their seltzer water, not the sparkling water - the latter has sweeteners, other chemicals, this is the one:

[doublepost=1526132316][/doublepost](... and yes, I'm familiar with the discussions about natural flavors)

 

[Huntn]

I bet, it's like the new "hot market", so there's tons of options, even Pepsi has a product line called bubly.

Oh yeah, so what you want is their seltzer water, not the sparkling water - the latter has sweeteners, other chemicals, this is the one:

[doublepost=1526132316][/doublepost](... and yes, I'm familiar with the discussions about natural flavors)

I prefer bottles. I’ll be headed to Kroger’s today.

 

[D.T.]

I prefer bottles.

Don't be a heathen, pour it in a glass with ice

 

[I7guy]

I wonder if there is a distinction between something like oatmeal, and say Chereos? I frequently eat a product labeled as granola- whole grain rolled oats, whole grain wheat, whole grain oat flour, brown sugar, canola oil, chicory root extract, almonds, whey protein, honey, and coconut. This with almond milk and a banana. If you live near a Kroger’s, it’s a Kroger Brand, Oats and Honey Granola.

Mimosas, cold pizza? Really now.

Recently found this muesli recipe that includes Greek yogurt.
https://www.mensjournal.com/food-drink/bircher-muesli
[doublepost=1526128081][/doublepost]
I’m wondering if these grains interfer with losing weight? I’m not on a losing weight regiment as much as I’m just trying to watch what I eat, and cut back on sweets.

That recipe looks wonderful, but it will kill my points for the day. I get 23 smartpoints. The recipe looks like about 8 points, Cheerios is three.

It’s not that I’m hung up on points or weight watchers but significantly reducing fat and carbs has enabled a nice weight loss, combined with exercise. So I eat foods low in carbs and fats. (And save the indulgences for special times)

 

[D.T.]

So I eat foods low in carbs and fats. (And save the indulgences for special times)

This is something I agree with 101%, there are so many people who trudge along, neither fully committed or in a complete "I don't care" mode. If you don't want to eat healthy, lose weight, then don't, have a blast!

However, if you _do_, go all in, make a dramatic change, no fads, no fasting, knock out carbs, dairy, do hardcore workouts, don't cheat, check the ingredients, weigh the food, don't pull any "Oh, a little bit won't hurt me ...". When you do want to take a break, make it worthwhile, and an occasional dietary "shock" can actually be beneficial, the psychological impact can be a massive positive effect to your success.

You'll also find - after a surprisingly short amount of time - your body and head get reprogrammed, so even when you're doing your cheat day, or taking a little vacation, you wind up eating way more healthy - and that's ultimately what anybody's goal should be, a maintainable, healthy lifestyle that makes you feel great and doesn't require much thought.

 

[I7guy]

This is something I agree with 101%, there are so many people who trudge along, neither fully committed or in a complete "I don't care" mode. If you don't want to eat healthy, lose weight, then don't, have a blast!

However, if you _do_, go all in, make a dramatic change, no fads, no fasting, knock out carbs, dairy, do hardcore workouts, don't cheat, check the ingredients, weigh the food, don't pull any "Oh, a little bit won't hurt me ...". When you do want to take a break, make it worthwhile, and an occasional dietary "shock" can actually be beneficial, the psychological impact can be a massive positive effect to your success.

You'll also find - after a surprisingly short amount of time - your body and head get reprogrammed, so even when you're doing your cheat day, or taking a little vacation, you wind up eating way more healthy - and that's ultimately what anybody's goal should be, a maintainable, healthy lifestyle that makes you feel great and doesn't require much thought.

That is my experience the last 6 months. In order to lose the weight sensibly, you have to be all in on a healthy regimen low in fats, sugar or carbs. I still drink alcohol, have sweets, ice cream, bagels, steak, ribs, etc, but not with complete abandon.

What I have found, is that a cheat day, really wears me down. My body is not used to all of the stuff, however, my mind is happy.

 

[Huntn]

I bet, it's like the new "hot market", so there's tons of options, even Pepsi has a product line called bubly.

Oh yeah, so what you want is their seltzer water, not the sparkling water - the latter has sweeteners, other chemicals, this is the one:

[doublepost=1526132316][/doublepost](... and yes, I'm familiar with the discussions about natural flavors)

Found’m!

 

[I7guy]

Found’m!

Those are the best. I drink dasani. Very rarely have the stuff with artificial sweeteners. Although honestly every once in a while I have some diet something. I can’t even drink the real thing anymore.