Japan has 30 percent fewer obese people than the United States – how do they do it? There are plenty of tricks and healthy eating habits that we can learn from the Japanese. The idea of tiny portions of lots of different foods is one that the Japanese adopt for…
One of the biggest challenges faced by dieters is definitely cravings that strike at anytime, anywhere. Maybe you’re watching television, sitting in front of the computer and even reading in bed. All of the sudden – WHAM! You’re struck with the urge to run to the refrigerator. When your stomach…
Experiencing constipation is uncomfortable, whether it’s bloating, cramping or pain when using the bathroom. Obvious causes include not eating enough fiber, not drinking enough water or a lack of exercise. But what else could be stopping you up? Some of the answers might surprise you. First, check your medicine cabinet….
You walk all day long. Wouldn’t it be nice to find out exactly how many calories you’re burning? You can with the purchase of a pedometer. Pedometers monitor every step you take and can cost as little as $5. It’s a more economic option for those who don’t want to…
Beginning the year with a clean, organized and well-stocked pantry will go a long way in helping you meet your diet goals. Start by tossing anything that’s past its expiration date. If there’s unopened, nonperishable food that you know no one in your household will eat, then donate it to…
The Hanukkah festivities are in full swing. You may be tempted to indulge in those typical holiday foods, but look at these numbers before you leap into a plate of gourmet goodies. Hanukkah lasts for eight days, and most of the traditional foods are fried in oil to honor the…
Feeling down? Maybe you’re nervous or angry about something. What you eat may have an impact on your mood and help you get happy. To release dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with the pleasure centers of the brain, try eating bananas or leafy greens or drink a glass of milk. Make…
Use smaller plates. When you’re trying to get a handle on portion sizes, your dinner can drown on those 12-inch plates. Suddenly, those healthy helpings can look smaller than ever. Trick your brain by enjoying sensible servings on a smaller platter. It will be difficult to “overdo” it when there’s…
When dining out, do you start your meal out on the light foot? You waited 15 minutes to be seated and your stomach is growling by the time you finally get your table. Your first instinct is to dig in to the basket of warm bread or feast recklessly on…
Crossing a fish with a tomato may sound like science fiction, but it’s reality in the world of GMOs, or genetically modified organisms. DNA is injected into one organism from another, creating a hybrid that may make the food hardier and more resistant to pests, spoiling, etc. So what’s the…