What Is the Life Span of a Shi Tzu Dog?

Shih tzu dogs have sturdy little bodies, short legs and muzzles and an elegant and proud gait with the tail held high over the back. They are intelligent, loving and loyal, making ideal companion dogs. Smaller dog breeds tend to have a longer life span than larger breeds and the shih tzu is no exception.

A Long Life

Shih tzu dogs have a life span that averages 10 to 14 years and, given the right care, should live most of these years happily and healthily. Exercise, mental stimulation through play and training along with the correct diet and regular grooming will all help to give the shih tzu the maximum life span.

Common Shih Tzu Health Concerns

As with all specially bred dogs, they can have some inherited problems. These can include eye or thyroid problems, allergies, breathing difficulties and occasionally Von Willebrand's disease or patellar luxation. A luxating patella is when the kneecap moves or becomes dislocated and this may be apparent at birth or develop later in life. With Von Willebrand's disease, a type of hemophilia, the blood doesnt clot properly, which means the shih tzu may bleed excessively or be prone to easy bruising. Eye problems include "cherry eye," which can be surgically corrected under local anesthetic.

A Healthy Shih Tzu Diet

Shih tzu dogs love fresh food and, while it may not be possible or advisable to feed fresh meat and vegetables for every meal, if you try to include fresh produce several times a week, his diet will be more healthy and balanced than if fed solely on commercial dog food. A dog's digestive system is designed to process meats, so fresh meat such as chicken or beef should form the bulk of the shih tzu diet along with a little rice and fresh vegetables. Avoid feeding the dog sweets or other human treats.

Shih Tzu Grooming

The naturally long coat of the shih tzu means this is a dog that needs plenty of regular grooming to avoid matting and tangling of the hair. A popular grooming technique is to tie the hair on the forehead into the shih tzu topknot and finish with a bow or barrette. Eyes and ears should also be cleaned regularly along with weekly bathing.

Fresh Air and Exercise

Regular exercise in the open air will help the shih tzu to live life to the maximum. Although they are happy with indoor play activities, a walk outside presents extra stimulation for both body and mind. It also gives you the opportunity to practice obedience training by encouraging the shih tzu to walk to heel.

Green Soup Diet

Soup is a healthy and satisfying way to get your daily serving of five vegetables as well as essential vitamins and nutrients. If you are planning a detox regime, soup is your best friend, and there are many soups to choose from. However, consider the Green Soup Detox. Green soup is chock-full of vegetables and can be used as a meal. Vegetable soups provide a lot of energy and are easy to digest.

Making the Soup

The most important ingredient in green soup is spinach. This dark, leafy vegetable is full of vitamins A and C, and iron. Use a bag of pre-washed spinach. Spinach cooks down quickly, so dont be alarmed if this seems like a lot of spinach. You will also need two tomatoes and whatever green vegetables you have on hand including broccoli, kale, zucchini, green beans, asparagus, even peas. Other veggies you might use are leeks, carrots and potatoes. Add about cup of each. Chop up two to three onions to add if you wish.

Combine all the ingredients, except the spinach and onions, in a large stock pot filled up halfway with water. Boil the stock until it simmers, then add the chopped onions and spinach. Cook for another 10 minutes and remove from the heat. Allow to cool to room temperature, then transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Serve warm, and keep the excess in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze the soup for up to six months. If you want to thicken the soup, add a handful of couscous or brown rice.

Eat the soup at least once a day, every day for one week.

Detox Tips

Detox programs are a great way to shed a few pounds, cleanse the colon and in general make you feel lighter and more energetic. However, there are some precautions that experts recommend, which will make your detox go smoothly. First, drink plenty of water--at least two quarts a day. Ideally this should be distilled water, not water from the tap. Second, consume lots of fiber. Great sources include whole wheat toast and brown rice or such fruits as strawberries and blueberries, as berries are high in fiber. You might also try a fiber supplement. Finally, do lots of deep breathing, try to minimize stress, and avoid strenuous activity as much as possible during this time.

How to Plan a 1200 Calorie a Day Diet

A 1,200-calorie diet requires a strict limit on the amount of food you consume combined with careful consideration of which foods to eat. Starchy foods such as bread and pastas, sugary foods and foods high in fat should be avoided because they are high in calories and cause weight gain. The recommended daily allowance of calories to maintain weight per day is 2,000 for women and 2,500 for men. Dieting allows you to cut your calorie intake by a few hundred, but 1,200 is considered unhealthy due to the lack of calories needed for energy throughout the day. Speak with a dietitian to determine the safety of the diet before starting.

Instructions

1

Eat non-starchy vegetables and fruit. Non-starchy vegetables and fruit are low in calories and carbohydrates, and high in vitamins. Because of the low calorie content, you can consume more non-starchy vegetables than other foods. Non-starchy vegetables include leafy greens, cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes, beets, asparagus, peppers and mushrooms. Fruits such as bananas, plums, apples, cherries, grapes and peaches are some of the healthier choices to eat. To accurately count your calories visit websites like The Calorie Counter or Free Dieting as they offer calories per serving, serving size and other valuable nutritional information.

2

Avoid saturated and trans fats. Saturated and trans fats cause weight gain due to high levels of calories and fat levels. Saturated fat is found in margarine, butter, eggs, milk, cheeses and red meats. Red meat should be avoided entirely due to the high caloric levels. One serving of beef equals 275 calories and 12 grams of fat. Because you are severely restricting calorie consumption, you should eat foods that are filling without being calorie heavy. Switch your margarine and butter to olive oil or peanut oil to reduce saturated fat and caloric intake. To reduce calories, switch from red meat to fish or poultry. Remove the skin from chicken to reduce saturated fat and avoid fried foods at all costs.

3

Limit simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates can be found in fruit juice, milk, yogurt, sugar and refined foods. Simple carbohydrates provide little nutritional value and digest faster than complex carbohydrates, and leave you hungry after eating. Instead of consuming simple carbohydrates, eat more complex carbohydrates as they digest slower and keep you full longer. Complex carbohydrates are found in whole-grain bread and pasta, bran and corn.

4

Portion your meals. Reduce three large meals to five or six small meals and spread them evenly throughout the day to avoid hunger. Due to the low amount of calories, you may feel slightly hungry toward the end of the day. If so, balance your meals so that your dinner is slightly heavier in calories than your previous meals, and save calories after dinner for a late-night snack. Your meal plate should be divided into four sections that consist mostly of protein and non-starchy foods, with the remaining portions designated for starchy foods and dairy.

How to Perform the Five Duties of a Hindu

The Five Duties are daily Hindu obligations to affirm on a daily basis one's devotion and commitment to the Hindu tradition of one's choice. The Five Duties serve as daily opportunities for peace, prosperity and spiritual advancement toward liberation from rebirth.

Instructions

The Five Duties of a Hindu

1




Live a life of virtue. Hindu scriptures, Vedas, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, offer clear instructions for a life of virtue. Dharma, righteous duty, include practicing Ahimsa (non-injury), respect and performing your duties without attachment to results, but to offer each duty to God.

2




Make a pilgrimage (Tirthaytr). Routinely visit sacred Hindu places. Such places may be temples, Hindu masters, India and other sites of pilgrimage. Pilgrimages free you from daily routine and focus your whole being on the sacred.

3




Observe holy days or Hindu festivals (Utsava). Festivals are celebrated in the home and at temples. Engage in fasts to purify your body and spirit.

4




Participate in the sacraments (Samskras). Hindu scriptures define the sacraments, which guide you through your life events. Sacraments purify and bless you with truthfulness and a generous spirit.

5




Observe Sarva Brahm (God in all). In every activity, with every being, strive to honor God in all reality. This is a form of Bhakti, or devotion, that is liberating.

How to Use Basil to Control Acid Reflux

Acid reflux affects one in 10 Americans, with symptoms varying in severity. Chest pain or pain in the throat can sometimes be so severe they mimic a heart attack. Symptoms of acid reflux can occur when lying down, bending over, lifting and after a heavy meal. Certain foods, obesity, stress or medications can also trigger an attack of acid reflux. When the refluxed acid from the stomach reaches the esophagus lining, it burns.
Basil, also known as St. Joseph's Wort, is well known for its use in problems related to the stomach. The herb's stomachic and carminative properties provide temporary relief for acid reflux.

Instructions

Basil Tea for Reflux

1

Add 1/2 cup boiling water to 1 tsp. dried basil.

2

Let mixture steep for 10 minutes.

3

Drink basil tea one mouthful at a time.

4

Limit basil tea intake to 1 1/2 cups a day.

Cardiac Rehab Diet

A well balanced diet is essential, especially if you are recovering from heart surgery. Anyone who has been diagnosed with cardiac problems should learn to eat a diet that is rich in nutrients and low in fat. Eating a cardiac rehab diet will make you feel much better and will help you live a longer life. It will be challenging to learn new ways of cooking and eating, but you will get the hang of it soon. You just have to learn a few different habits when it comes to grocery shopping and cooking your foods.

Watch Fat in Your Diet

It is critical that the cardiac patient stays away from foods high in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol. These foods are the enemy of a good heart. Saturated fats raise the level of cholesterol in your blood, thereby raising the risk of heart disease and stroke. The majority of saturated fats come from animal foods, such as fatty beef, pork, lamb, poultry with skin, lard, cream, butter and whole milk products. These foods contain cholesterol, too. Many baked and fried foods contain saturated fat, as well. The American Heart Association limits the intake of saturated fats to 7 percent of your total calories. Trans fats are also very dangerous for your heart. French fries, doughnuts, piecrusts, biscuits, cookies, crackers, stick margarines and shortenings are some foods that contain trans fats.

Fruits And Vegetables

A cardiac rehab diet will include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals and are high in fiber.A diet high in soluble fibers, which is found in fruits and vegetables, actually helps lower your cholesterol and will reduce the risk of heart disease. Keep cauliflower, carrots and broccoli cut up and ready to eat at all times. This will make it easier for you to eat healthy. Instead of grabbing the meat and cheese from the refrigerator, grab that container of fresh vegetables. Choose food that contains vegetables as the main ingredient for your meals, like stir-fry or a chef salad. Make sure you do not heap butter or high-fat sauces on your vegetables. Eat an apple or a peach for dessert or snack.

Protein is a Must

Protein is another important part of a heart healthy diet. When choosing your meats, make sure they are high in protein and low in fat. Choose prime cuts of beef instead of fatty cuts. Include legumes, peas and beans because they are a high source of protein and do not contain cholesterol. Fish is another great source of protein. Cod, tuna and halibut have little fat in them. Eating a diet that is beneficial to your heart health will take dedication and practice, but it is an attainable goal.

Alternative Cures for IBS

IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is characterized by a group of symptoms which include pain and cramping in the abdomen and lower intestine. Other symptoms of IBS can include chronic diarrhea and constipation, and these two symptoms can alternate. The causes of IBS are unknown, but changes in diet and the addition of specific herbs can help with the symptoms.

Changes in Diet

Sometimes when IBS sufferers consume certain foods and drinks, their symptoms will worsen. In this list are fried foods and other fatty foods, dairy products, alcohol, chocolate, caffeine and carbonated drinks. You can determine which foods are giving you a problem by keeping a diary to show your doctor on a follow-up visit.

List items that make you feel nauseated after eating them and which items cause cramping and pain. Make sure you write down the times these foods are eaten and exactly when you experience negative symptoms after eating.

Increasing fiber in the diet can sometimes help with the adverse symptoms of IBS. It helps food travel through the digestive canal more easily, but it should be added to the diet slowly. This is because adding large amounts of fiber at one time can sometimes cause discomfort and bloating due to gas production.

Herbs for IBS

Peppermint has been used as a digestive aid for centuries and can help relieve IBS symptoms, because it works to calm spasms in the stomach and intestines. This helps with pain reduction.

The fastest way to supplement with peppermint is by sipping it in the form of tea. Peppermint tea is available in teabags at most grocery stores, and some even carry the fresh leaves. Dried peppermint can be purchased in bulk at most health food stores. If using fresh leaves, they need to be dried first. This can be accomplished by laying them in direct sunlight for several hours. Make your tea by steeping 2 or 3 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves in an 8-ounce mug of water. Peppermint tea can be sweetened with honey.

Fennel seed tea can be used to combat the bloating and gas that is so troublesome in IBS. It is classified as an anti-spasmodic and also helps the stomach produce digestive juices. As an alternative to brewing fennel seeds in a tea, you can chew on the seeds for the same effect.

Before steeping several teaspoons of fennel seeds for tea, you can crush the seeds, thus intensifying their strength.

The root of ginger has also been used for centuries in treating digestive distress. It can help overcome the feeling of nausea and also acts to tone the intestinal tract. It has been used effectively to treat the symptoms of IBS as well as motion sickness, and the digestive enzymes it contains make it perfect for use after a large meal.

Slice several pieces of fresh ginger root and allow this to boil on the stove for about 10 minutes. Strain the ginger out of the tea, and let the tea cool before sipping.

A Weight Loss Diet Before Heart Surgery

While your attempts to begin eating smart and healthy may have come too late to prevent the need for heart surgery, beginning a new heart-healthy lifestyle prior to surgery has a number of benefits, including decreased recovery time and increased likelihood of never seeing the inside of a cardiologist's office again. It is never too late to make a positive change in your life, and we applaud your efforts. If you are looking for a place to begin your quest for health, read on and discover ways to lose weight before your surgery.

Adopt the 7 Habits Diet

Dr. John Berardi, a Canadian nutritionist, has developed the last diet you will ever need in his "7 Habits" plan. Berardi has worked with all types of individuals, from elite athletes to stay-at-home mothers, and these habits have been the linchpin of every successful physical transformation. In fact, he has stated that for most of his clients (who do not want to get "bodybuilder lean"), just following the 7 Habits is the beginning and the end of his nutritional advice--they can accomplish their physique goals that easily.

The Habits

So without further ado, we present the 7 Habits.

1.) Consume small, frequent meals every two to three hours for a total of five to eight meals a day.
2.) Consume lean protein with each meal--meat, chicken, fish, or eggs.
3.) Consume fruits and vegetables with every meal.
4.) Only consume carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables.
5.) Consume at least 25 percent of your daily calories from a blend of fats, including animal fat, fat from items like avocados and coconuts, and oils like fish, flax and olive.
6.) Drink only zero-calorie beverages--preferably only water and green tea.
7.) Stick to solid meals--no liquid nutrition.

And that's that. By following those seven habits prior to your surgery, you will shed pounds and be in optimal shape to recover quickly and efficiently. Depending on how much time you have prior to surgery day, you might want to adopt the habits slowly to avoid a "cold turkey" approach that often fails. By adding one additional habit per week, you can ease your way into the program, making it more likely to be a permanent change. We recommend beginning by cutting out all calorie-containing beverages, then complying with the all-solid-meal rule. After that it is your choice, but with each new "habit," you will notice positive changes in your body that will serve you well during your upcoming surgery. Best of luck.

How to Follow a Revision Timetable

No matter how long you have until an exam, it is never too early or too late to start revising. It is easier to start early, however. You'll have more time to study and will feel less pressured. You'll also have more time for your other activities. A revision timetable or schedule, will help you pace yourself and stay on track no matter what subject you're studying. A timetable divides your time into study blocks so you know what you should be studying and when.

Instructions

1

Make a list of all the subjects and topics you must cover and how much time you have. Write next to each topic the amount of time you plan to spend studying. Be realistic and divide your time wisely. Allot the most time to topics that will be worth more marks. Then make a to-do list of the things you want to accomplish each day until your exam.

2

Find the best study times for you, whether morning, afternoon or evening, and study every day, even if just for a few minutes. Start at the beginning and work methodically to the end. Use your class notes, textbooks and any past assignments that you have.

3

Cross each topic off the to-do list as it is completed.

4

Ask for help from your teachers or friends when you need it. Don't fall behind.

5

Take plenty of 10-minute breaks while studying, at least one every hour. When you start to feel tired, take a walk, listen to music or have a quick snack.

About The Special K Challenge

Diets are everywhere. Just look on the Internet or TV. Popular diets such as NutriSystem, Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig advertise their success using famous people to promote their products. Special K chose a different approach with its "Special K Challenge." The company decided to challenge consumers to try its cereal products for 2 weeks. The Special K Challenge is a balanced program that guarantees weight loss.

History

The Kellogg Company was founded in 1906. Its philosophy is simple. The company believes in encouraging people to eat better and live healthier. Kellogg's concern for health was evident in the 1970s when it volunteered to list the amount of sugar in its cereals. The company purchased the health food leader, Kashi Company, furthering its focus on nutritional eating.

Function

The Special K Challenge is a 2-week challenge that the Kellogg Company initiated to help people jump start better eating habits. It's a simple eating plan that Kellogg does not call a diet. It focuses on nutrition and healthy eating. The plan consists of three meals a day with two snacks. Two of the meals are Kellogg products, as well as the two snacks. Vegetables and fruit are encouraged as additional foods for the day.

Features

Meal one consists of any Special K cereal with 2/3 cup of skim milk and fruit. The other option is a serving of Special K Red Berries Waffles and 2 tablespoons of light syrup. Meal two consists of a Special K protein meal bar or another serving of cereal. Meal three is a normal meal of your choice. This meal can be the last meal of the day or it can be the first or second meal. The two snacks you eat during the day are a choice among the Kellogg's other products: protein waters and mixes, protein snack bars, cereal bars, bliss bars or crackers. You may eat as many fruits and vegetables as you wish throughout the day.

Considerations

At the Special K website, you can customize a plan (see Resources below). Answer five questions and then hit enter. They will suggest a plan for your first week. You can go back at any time and answer the questions again, if your answers change. This plan is only a guide. The website also offers a Yahoo groups site, so you can share experiences, peruse the topics and find meal ideas. You can share your experiences and read about the people selected for the Member Spotlight.

Benefits

The Special K 2-week challenge is to help you lose up to 6 pounds. It also offers advice on healthy living and nutritional choices. The Kellogg's website offers a daily newsletter with lifestyle information. This newsletter focuses on how to start your day, including breakfast ideas, as well as other pointers for healthy living.

How to Advance in Military Rank

Military rank among all of the uniformed branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard) is used to award members for three things: merit, length of service in years, and job performance. How fast a military member increases in rank depends on not only the judgment of the leadership and officers, but also upon the member and how that member conducts himself while on active duty. Each of the military branches have slight differences in rank increases, such as length of time on duty, but all branches have most rank advance requirements in common.

Instructions

1

Make a career out of your job in your chosen military branch by planning to remain on duty for more than just two or three years. The military spends a large sum of money for recruiting you as a member, and also for training you and transporting you. As a result, the military truly appreciates members who choose to stay for more than one enlistment term. The leadership in all branches have been known to give members another advance in rank at times just for re-enlisting when each enlistment contract term is completed.

2

Maintain your physical fitness through proper diet and exercise. All military branches have minimum physical fitness requirements in place for all members to achieve. Those who excel past the minimum physical fitness requirements and make extra effort to maintain a high state of physical fitness increase chances of rank advancement. The Army and Marines have been known to give a "Physical Fitness Award" along with a rank advancement for those who excel in their physical fitness and performance.

3

Study combat leadership. Though this may sound like redundant advice since all military branches teach basic combat leadership, there is much to be studied and learned on your own personal time when off duty. Increase your knowledge of higher leadership roles, and how to fill such leadership rolls personally, demonstrating your knowledge by putting it into practice daily. Many rank advancements are given to those who demonstrate leadership abilities.

4

Work hard to excel in your job specialty. Whether you are a truck driver, medical technician, infantry, artillery, tank driver, electronics technician, always do your absolute best in your assigned tasks. Rank advancements are provided to members of all branches based upon performance. If you are found to go the "extra mile" in your duties, your leadership will most likely help you in going the "extra mile" in your rank advancement as well.

5

Save another members life during combat. Although military members are asked not to try being a hero since it entails great danger, be willing to put your life on the line if needed to save the lives of fellow military members. The more lives spared in a combat situation, the better the chances of the entire battalion will win in a battle. In many cases, rank is achieved much faster in combat situations than they are during peaceful periods.

6

Exercise punctuality with your military job, just as you would be expected with a civilian job. Always be to work a few minutes early at every possible chance, and don't call in sick for a simple cold or sinus infection. The less absences and tardies you have on your military job performance record, the faster you will advance in rank over time.

The History of the Tamale

Tamales are steamed rolls of corn dough ("masa") containing filling and usually wrapped in corn husk. Tamales have been around for thousands of years and are now prepared with regularity throughout North, Central and South America.

Origins

Tamales derive their name from the Nahuatl word "tamalii," which means "wrapped food." No one is certain when and who invented tamales. However, some historians trace it to as far back as 3000 B.C, when the people of the Sierra Madre Mountains of Mexico hybridized wild grasses to produce what we know today as corn. The cereal grain, eventually gaining significance in the region as a sacred plant and the main source of food in Meso-American civilizations (particularly that of the Mayans and Aztecs), was used to make tamales.

Spanish Arrival

The making and consumption of tamales was well established by the 16th century in the Aztec empire, around which time the Spanish conqueror and explorer Hernan Cortes (c. 1485-1541) arrived in that section of the New World presently known today as Mexico. Franciscan Friar Bernardino de Sahagun (c. 1499-1590) mentioned tamales in his compilation of Aztec diet features in his 12-volume history series on the Aztec civilization, "Historia General de las Cosas de Nueva Espana" ("General History of the Things in New Spain").

How Tamales Are Made

Corn kernels, plucked from the cobs, are soaked or cooked in a lime-water solution to shed the husk, then ground on a stone slab with a grinding stone to produce corn dough ("masa"). It is the same process used to make tortillas, but the dough for tamales is meant not to be as smooth. The dough is spread on the smooth side of a corn husk, then the mixture for the filling is applied to the center. The dough, husk and filling are then folded up and steamed in a pot lined with corn husks, cooked until the dough no longer sticks to the husk when peeled.

Types of Tamales

Mainstream or traditional tamales are known for their homogeneity, usually containing fillings primarily made from beef, chicken or pork in a red or green chile sauce. However, several other tamale recipes feature chocolate, apple, sweet potato, pineapple, corn and cheese fillings.

Regional Tamale Names

Tamale names vary from one country to another. Some of them are "nacatamal" (Nicaragua), "paches" and "Chuchitos" (Guatemala), "humita" (Bolivia and Ecuador) and "hallaca" (Venezuela).

Difference in Quinoa Red & White

Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is a high-protein food commonly referred to as grain, but it is actually the seed of a plant native to Peru. The plant, chenopodium quino, is in the same family as spinach, beets and chard. Quinoa is treated like a grain for culinary purposes. There are nearly 1,800 types of quinoa but white and red are the most widely distributed varieties in the United States.

Color, Flavor & Texture

In raw form, white quinoa resembles tiny, hard seeds like millet.

Quinoa ranges in color from white, orange, red, purple and black, depending on the variety. White quinoa is often labeled "traditional" quinoa. All varieties of quinoa have a nutty flavor when cooked; however, red quinoa has an earthier flavor than its white counterpart. Cooked quinoa has a fluffy and delicate texture but red quinoa is chewier and crunchier than white quinoa.

Nutrition

There are no nutritional differences between red and white quinoa. Quinoa is a complete protein supplying all nine of the essential amino acids and is a good source of fiber, foliate, magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorous. Quinoa has more protein than any other grain. A half-cup of cooked quinoa contains 127 calories, 2g fat, 23g carbohydrates (2g dietary fiber), 10mg sodium and 5g protein. According to the American Dietetic Association, a diet rich in whole grains, like quinoa, can help prevent heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Cooking

Red and white quinoa are cooked the same. When harvested, quinoa has a bitter saponin coating that is typically removed during the commercial cultivation process. Some of the saponin usually remains, so rinsing quinoa before cooking is recommended. One cup of quinoa takes roughly 15 minutes to cook. Once cooked, white quinoa resembles white rice or couscous and red quinoa adopts a brownish color.

Culinary Options

Both red and white varieties of quinoa are naturally gluten-free and a common culinary choice for people following a gluten-free diet. The leaves and flower buds of red and white quinoa plants are also edible and taste similar to spinach or chard.

Basic Principles of Buddhism

Derived from the word 'budhi', meaning to awaken, Buddhism is a spiritual tradition dating back approximately 2,500 years. Practiced by 376 million people worldwide (as of 2009), Buddhism arose as the result of Siddartha Gautama, the Buddha's quest for enlightenment in the sixth century B.C. The Buddhist philosophy is based on the goal of leading a moral life, being mindful and aware of thoughts and actions, and the development of wisdom and understanding.

Dharma

Practicing Dharma is the central principle of Buddhism. Although it literally refers to the teachings of the Buddha, Dharma is also the process by which Buddhists can improve the quality of human life. At its heart, Dharma is about using the Buddha's teaching and the practice of meditation to eradicate delusions and to replace them with virtuous and peaceful states of mind.

Enlightenment

If Dharma is the day-to-day practice and teachings of Buddhism, then enlightenment is the ultimate goal. When the Buddha attained the state of enlightenment at the age of 35, he was fully awakened and had transcended humanness. In other words, this state of enlightenment was free from suffering, craving and the desire for human pleasure, and went beyond the human processes of aging, sickness and death.

Karma and Reincarnation

Karma, the idea that every cause has an effect, is a central principle of Buddhism that explains inequality in the world and is used to demonstrate that all individuals are responsible for their past and present actions. The law of karma is inextricably linked to reincarnation, or rebirth, another of Buddhism's basic principles. It is our karma in this life that will determine our next rebirth; virtuous karma will propel us into the realms of higher humans, while negative karma will ensure a rebirth into the lower realms of life.

Four Noble Truths

Part of the Dharma, the Four Noble Truths were devised by the Buddha after he had become enlightened. The first noble truth teaches that all life is suffering as it includes sickness, death and psychological states like disappointment and loneliness. The second noble truth teaches that suffering is caused by craving and aversion; a desire to get the things we want. Although this appears pessimistic, the third noble truth teaches that this suffering can be overcome and that true happiness and freedom can be attained. This is known as nirvana. The fourth noble truth is that the Noble Eightfold Path leads to the end of human suffering.

Noble Eightfold Path

The Noble Eightfold Path is another basic principle of Buddhism. In summary, the path consists of being moral, through our thoughts, words and deeds, and focusing the mind on being conscious and aware of our thoughts and actions. The path is also about being wise, through developing an open and objective mind, and acting with compassion towards other people. Buddhists believe that it is only through understanding others than we can truly understand ourselves and achieve the goal of enlightenment.

The Big Breakfast Diet

Breakfast is a commonly rushed or forgotten meal of the day. According to a poll conducted by Gary Langer of ABC News, four out of 10 Americans go without breakfast every day. However, Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. from the Mayo Clinic, recommends eating breakfast to reduce your risk of obesity. By following the big breakfast diet, you can jump-start your metabolism and avoid late-day binges.

Calories

One pound of fat equals 3,500 calories. By reducing your daily intake of calories, you can lose weight. Cutting 500 calories a day is a good way to start a diet without feeling ravenous. Decide how you want to break up your daily allotment by making breakfast your largest intake of calories. Lunch, snacks and dinner meals should have significantly less calories than your morning meals. By eating the majority of your calories in the morning, you can burn them off throughout the day. Be sure to create a meal plan. For example, eat 500 calories in the morning, 300 for lunch, one 100 calorie snack and a 300-calorie dinner. Avoid trying to eat less than 1,200 calories a day to prevent your body from going into a starvation mode where it holds on to any calories.

Breakfast Meal Options

Eat a well-balanced breakfast that includes a lean protein, fibrous carbohydrate, fruit, vegetable and dairy. Fibrous carbohydrates slowly convert into sugar in the bloodstream and won't leave you dragging at lunch. Examples include whole wheat toast, brown rice, oatmeal or wheat tortillas. Lean proteins have little fat to raise cholesterol levels. Eggs are a popular choice for breakfasts; however, according to the American Heart Association, a person with normal cholesterol levels should get 300 mg of cholesterol a day and one egg has 213 mg of dietary cholesterol. Therefore, make your morning meals with egg whites, which have very little cholesterol. Almost any fruit or vegetable you pick will be beneficial to your big breakfast diet, except for potatoes, which quickly convert into sugar.

Breakfast Recipe Ideas

Count all the calories according to serving sizes when preparing recipes. You can look up the amount of individual ingredients online at websites like thecaloriecounter.com or calorieking.com. Low-calorie recipe ideas include egg white omelets, tofu scrambles and turkey sausage. Spinach, tomatoes, onions, garlic and broccoli can easily be incorporated with proteins. Buckwheat pancakes with fruit, whole grain zucchini muffins and wheat toast with peanut butter give you two food groups in one meal. Use low-fat dairy products like feta cheese, goat cheese or soy cheese. Legumes are high in fiber and can be served as a side dish or the main meal. Rather than loading your breakfast with stomach-bloating sodium, choose low-salt options or use herbs to season food. Develop your other three meals based on how many calories you eat for your big breakfast. You can also take some of your low-calorie recipes and use them as a jumping board for other meal ideas.

Hindu Fasts & Pilgrimages

Both fasts and pilgrimages are traditional Hindu practices, performed for the purposes of spiritual development or purification. Fasting, the abstinence of food for a set number of days, is a Hindu ritual exercised at specific times during the year. While a pilgrimage is not mandatory in Hinduism, many followers undertake one to gain spiritual merit and inspiration. Many pilgrims travel to one or more of India's many holy cities.

Fasting

In Hinduism, each day of the week is assigned to a certain god in the Hindu pantheon. According to the Hindu-Blog website, Sunday is devoted to Lord Surya, the Sun God. Those who fast on this day eat just a single meal and avoid oil and salt. Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is said to be easily pleased; consequently, many Hindus fast on Monday and consume a single meal. Tuesday is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Durga and the Goddess Kali, and Hindus fasting on Tuesday avoid foods containing salt in the evening hours. Wednesday is dedicated to Lord Vithal, an incarnation of Krishna and the planet Mercury. Thursday is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and food containing milk products is eaten one time only. Friday is dedicated to the Mother Goddess, and those fasting eat in the evening. Saturday is dedicated to reducing the negative influence of Lord Shani, and those who fast tend to believe in Hindu astrology.

Fasting Festivals

According to the Swaminarayan website, Ekadashi is a sacred day, occurring twice a month in the Hindu calendar. All Hindus are required to fast during these days. The Navrati festival is dedicated to celebrating the Goddess Durga and is held twice a year. The Chitrabuddha website reports that fasting for seven or eight days is one of the festival's fundamental principles. During the festival, Hindus are encouraged to eat just one meal a day, taken in one sitting. The National Hindu Students Forum website cites Shravan, the fifth month in the Hindu calendar, as a month of Hindu fasting. During this time, Hindus across the world abstain from addictions to meat and alcohol and practice fasting.

Pilgrimages

Pilgrimages are undertaken by many Hindus to combine a desire to travel with spiritual goals. The Heart of Hinduism website suggests that Hindus embark on pilgrimages in order to remember special people (saints), to meditate upon God, to perform particular religious rites and to meet and take guidance from holy people. The website cites the Indian city of Varanasi as the most famous of all pilgrimage sites. The Indian city of Mathura, the purported birthplace of the goddess Shiva, is another widely visited place by pilgrims.

How to Find Sacred Ashrams in India

The word ashram means "place of striving." An ashram is a place where a guru has stayed, and where disciples have gathered and remained to absorb the guru's wisdom in a quest for liberation from rebirth. It is possible to make pilgrimages to ashrams all across the Indian subcontinent. When looking for ashrams in India, consider the specific school of Hinduism that is the most resonant to you. Whether your interest is centered on Vedanta, Aurobindo, Transcendental Meditation or Tureya Yoga, India offers ashrams for every seeker on a Hindu spiritual path.

Instructions

1




Travel to Calcutta and visit the Ramakrishna Ashram. Reflecting the Vedanta teachings of Hindu saints, Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, the Ramakrishna Ashram offers an experience of the openness of Hindu tradition. Visitors are invited to spend their days in worship and partake in scheduled meals. Teachings are presented during the day. (Specific schedules are available in Resources.)

2




Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry, South India. Visitors are welcome, but accommodations are limited. Sri Aurobindo was a man of science and of spirit. He wrote volumes about his philosophy of spirit and matter. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a bustling center for introspection, culture and education. Its website (see Resources) includes a listing of guest houses; be sure to make reservations well in advance.

3




Attend meditation and programs at the Transcendental Meditation at Gautam Buddha Nagar, near Delhi. Founded by the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (of Beatles fame), the center teaches TM, or Transcendental Meditation--a path for the mind to attain "bliss consciousness." You can sign up for more information about visiting centers worldwide, including ones in India, on the TM website. (See Resources.)

4




Find your center and soul's delight at Tureya Yoga Ashram in Tamil Nadu. The Tureya Foundation represents a synthesis of spiritual ideas. The Tureya philosophy is that each person can find self-realization when her unique spiritual potential is uncovered. Self-realization can be achieved in this lifetime, rather than over the course of countless rebirths. (Contact info@tureya.org.)

How to Eat Tortillas

The tortilla was originally known as "tlaxcalli" by Nahuatl-speaking Central American natives, but the Spanish Conquistadors changed the name of the natives' flat corn breads to tortillas, according to online food magazine The Nibble. The new name was the same as Spanish flat cakes, which resembled tlaxcalli. Today, people all over the world still eat tortillas made with cornmeal, and they're also made with flour. Both varieties offer a wide range of meal and snack options depending on your personal tastes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1

Prepare tortillas for eating by wrapping a dozen corn or flour tortillas in a damp tea towel and placing the bundle in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl and microwave on medium power for two to three minutes or until the tortillas are warm and pliable.

2

Use flour or corn tortillas as a substitute for bread by putting the filling on one side of a tortilla and rolling the tortilla into a cylinder. Hold one of the open ends closed while you eat the tortilla wrap to keep the fillings inside.

3

Make a quesadilla. Put shredded cheese between two flour tortillas and grill or pan-fry it on both sides until the cheese melts. You can also add other ingredients, such as vegetables or cooked meat.

4

Brush warmed corn or flour tortillas with butter and eat as you would a warm piece of bread. Sprinkle salt or cinnamon and sugar over the butter for additional flavor.

5

Deep-fry whole or sliced corn or flour tortillas in hot oil for one minute or until golden. Let them drain on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and serve hot with a side of salsa for homemade tortilla chips and dip.

Example Fruit & Vegetable Diet Plans

Fruits and vegetables are a critical part of healthy eating, providing vitamins, minerals and a host of other helpful substances like phytochemicals that cannot be found in a vitamin pill. Fruits and vegetables are delicious, and their high water and fiber content provides eating satisfaction without a lot of calories, which makes them a valuable addition to any diet. Control your weight and maintain health and fitness by adding fruits and vegetables to your diet.

The Fruit and Vegetable Lifestyle Diet

Fruits and vegetables can help manage your weight through a healthy lifestyle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a diet plan based on adding fruits and vegetables to every meal: For breakfast, cut your cereal portion back and fill the bowl with fruit, or scramble up a vegetable-filled omelet. For lunch, substitute lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and onions for 2 oz. of cheese and 2 oz. of meat in a sandwich or wrap, or add chopped cooked leftover vegetables to a noodle soup broth. For dinner, the CDC diet plan says use your eyes: fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should take up the largest percentage of your dinner plate. If they don't, remove some of the pasta, rice, meat, or cheese and replace it with beans, fruit, or vegetables. Eat one or two 100-calorie snacks through the day, such as a medium apple or banana, or a cup of grapes, carrot sticks, or blueberries.

Cabbage Soup

The Cabbage Soup Diet is probably the most popular fruit- and vegetable-based diet plan around, despite its mysterious origins. Some Internet versions of this diet refer to it as the Mayo Clinic or Sacred Heart Hospital diet, but these institutions deny any association with its origins, and Margaret Danbrot, author of The New Cabbage Soup Diet (St. Martins Paperbacks, 2004) and other popular diet books, says the diet has been around 30 years or more, but no one knows where it started. All sources, however, say that the Cabbage Soup Diet plan is intended only for short-term diet jump-start -- about a week to two weeks maximum -- and not for a long-term eating lifestyle.

Critics point out that the Cabbage Soup Diet alone may not provide all necessary nutrition for good health, and that it can be pretty boring. Restricting use of the diet to a short period should relieve both these concerns. Consult a doctor before starting a diet plan, however, and stop following the plan if you feel dizziness, gastric distress, or other unpleasant side effects.

The Cabbage Soup Diet starts with a broth-based vegetable soup full of nutrient-dense, fiber-filled vegetables like cabbage, onions, and green peppers. Exact ingredients vary and recipes can be found in Danbrot's book as well as at a number of websites such as that listed at Reference 3 below. This soup is very low-calorie, and any soup is slow to eat, giving your body time to fill up. The Cabbage Soup Diet Plan recommends eating as much of the soup as you can, together with specified additional foods -- fruit, a baked potato, beef -- on particular days for a one-week period. Its proponents report rapid weight loss and a sense of well-being and high energy.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mayo Clinic recommends adopting a Mediterranean Diet for heart health and general well-being. Rather than a specific diet plan, a Mediterranean Diet seeks to adopt the food and lifestyle choices of nations around the Mediterranean Sea that have low incidences of heart disease and cancer.

A Mediterranean Diet plan starts with significant intake of fruits and vegetables: The Mayo Clinic recommends 7 to 10 servings per day. Rely primarily on olive oil as a source of fat, limit or eliminate red meat but eat fish at least once a week. Snack on heart-healthy nuts or vegetable platters, and drink grape juice or, if it is in accord with your lifestyle and approved by your doctor, a glass of red wine on occasion.

The Calorad Diet

Calorad is a liquid protein diet supplement. First introduced to the United States and Canada in 1984, it promises weight loss as you sleep as well as improved stamina and energy throughout the following day. No scientific studies have been published to support Calorad's claim that it helps people lose weight.

Calorad Claims

Manufacturers of Calorad promise that using it will replace the body's essential and nonessential amino acids as well as its stores of collagen (fibrous tissues in the muscles and joints), which are depleted by free radicals such as pollution, chemical inhalation and cigarette smoke. Calorad also says it will help slow down the body's loss of lean muscle mass from the natural aging process.

Usage

Calorad is available in both liquid and spray form and is designed to take on an empty stomach before bedtime. You are advised not to eat any whole foods three hours prior to taking Calorad, as its manufacturer says this may interfere with the product's success rate.

Ingredients

Calorad's main ingredients are collagen hydrolysate, aloe vera, glycerin, potassium sorbate and lemon flavoring. Collagen hydrolysate, or hydrolyzed collagen, is an "edible product derived from animal proteins and can be eaten in amounts consistent with a normal daily protein intake," according to the Brigham and Women's Hospital. Dieters could acquire the same nutrients from other foods rich in protein, such as eggs, lean meats, nuts and low-fat dairy.

Pure aloe vera, when ingested, is known to have a significant laxative effect on the body, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. If you regularly consume aloe vera before bedtime, you may wake up to painful abdominal cramping or diarrhea. Because of its strong laxative effects, it can also decrease the potency of certain medications or antibiotics and so should be used with caution.

Also contained in this diet supplement is potassium sorbate, which is a preservative and should not be confused with the chemical element potassium, an electrolyte/mineral your body need to function. Finally, glycerin and lemon flavoring are only sweeteners.

The Bottom Line

Before trying Calorad, you should check with your doctor. Although aloe vera is not an essential food for losing weight and replacing muscle, protein is. But you can get protein just as easily through the consumption of other, whole food sources. These foods are more readily available and will cost less than Calorad products (three bottles of Calorad generally cost around $70, as of late 2009). Low-fat, whole foods contain high amounts of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that better support a healthy lifestyle.

How to Increase Spiritual Awareness Through Silence

Silence involves quieting the thoughts, feelings and reactive comments that dominate your day. Retreating to a space in your mind, body, heart and soul is integral in developing spiritual awareness. Connecting to your original creative potential can be done through practicing silence. Starting with a daily habit and purposeful routine of integrating silence into your day, you can notice how the self-defeating thoughts, gossipy mind clutter and egoistic beliefs negatively affect the reality you create for yourself. Silence clears the path for strength, optimism and fulfillment.

Instructions

1

Set aside 10 to 30 minutes alone time for silence and meditation. Say affirmations, such as "Silence is golden. My mind, body, heart, and soul are now at peace." Make an intention to benefit spiritually from observing silence.

2

Remove distractions. Explain to your family and friends you desire and have them respect your time. Turn off your radio, television, computer and cell phone.

3

Assume a comfortable position and close your eyes. Focus on your breath and return to your breathing if your mind fills with chatter.

4

Imagine your self filling with love and light during inhalation. Allow your thoughts, feelings and subtle movements to be transformed into pure, positive energy and purposeful silence.

5

Release your will. Visualize any harmful attitudes, beliefs or self-destructive patterns exiting your body during exhalation.

6

Stay silent, relaxed and receptive as long as you can. Record random insights, divinely guided messages or inspired ideas in your journal.

Three Day Cardio Diet

Most people would love to be encouraged to eat hot dogs and ice cream while on a diet. A popular weight loss plan promises you can do just that--and lose up to 10 pounds in three days.

History

The 3-Day Cardio Diet--versions of which are also known as the Cleveland Clinic 3-Day Diet, The American Heart Association Diet and the Birmingham Heart Hospital Diet, among others--has appeared in various forms on the Internet for many years. Although the one-page diet may be promoted under a variety of names, all the plans have essentially the same menu and rules.

The Plan

Dieters are instructed to strictly follow the menu for three days, followed by four days of normal eating. The plan does not mention exercise.

Menu

Hot dogs are featured in ths diet's menu.

The three-day eating plan consists of foods including vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage; animal products including cheese, tuna and eggs; and highly processed, high-fat items such as hot dogs and ice cream. Some versions permit substitutions such as frozen yogurt for ice cream; others proclaim that no substitutions are allowed.

Promised Benefits

The plan assures participants that they will lose 10 pounds in three days and up to 40 pounds in a month.

Warnings

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, the American Heart Association and the Cleveland Clinic have disavowed any affiliation with this diet. According to UAB, it is a "potentially harmful fad diet" and is "high in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol--the main dietary culprits related to heart disease."

The 2 Types of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty wax-like substance naturally found in all humans' bloodstream and cells. It is used by the body to produce cell membranes and some hormones; however, too much cholesterol in the body can cause heart attacks and strokes. The two main types of cholesterol are LDL, or bad cholesterol, and HDL, or good cholesterol.

Where Does Cholesterol Come From?

Cholesterol comes from a person's body and from the food they consume. Seventy-five percent of the cholesterol in a person's body is produced by the liver and other cells. Twenty-five percent comes from food.

Good Cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the good form of cholesterol. High levels of this cholesterol protect against heart attack while low levels increase the risk of heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, most medical experts believe that HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries and removes excessive cholesterol.

Bad Cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the bad cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, too much of this cholesterol circulating in the blood can build up in the walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain, forming hard deposits that narrow the arteries, which can cause heart attacks and strokes.

Cholesterol Levels

Desirable levels for the two main types of cholesterol are less than 100 mg/dl for LDL and more than 60 mg/dl for HDL.

Prevention and Treatment

The American Heart Association suggests that people needing to lower their total cholesterol and LDL counts should eat a healthful diet, not be overweight, participate in regular exercise and not smoke. If these do not lower your counts, there are cholesterol-lowering drugs that can be prescribed by your physician.

Healthy Cabbage Diets

Cabbage soup diets are a popular method for effectuating rapid weight loss that have been largely lambasted by nutritionists and diet reviewers as being excessively restrictive and potentially dangerous. While cabbage is not necessarily a bad choice for dieters in and of itself, basing your entire diet around little more than cabbage soup is not necessarily the best approach for long-term health. What follows is a more nutritious take the on the traditional Cabbage Soup Diet.

Original Cabbage Soup Diet

The original Cabbage Soup Diet is a seven-day plan designed for weight loss at any cost. During each day of the plan, you are instructed to consume liberal amounts of cabbage soup alongside one or two other additional foods. Day one of the plan calls for consumption of cabbage soup alongside any fruit except for bananas. Day two requires you to eat soup plus any other vegetables with only a baked potato and butter for dinner. Day three is cabbage soup plus all fruits and vegetables. Day four is soup, six bananas and skim milk. Day five is soup, six tomatoes and 450 grams (almost 16 ounces, or one pound) of meat or fish. Day six is soup, beef and veggies. Finally, day seven is soup, brown rice, fruit juice, and vegetables.

Revised Cabbage Soup Diet

To revise this plan into a healthy cabbage diet, a few changes need to be made. First, you should aim for five or six small meals throughout the day--consume a bowl of cabbage soup at the beginning of each of these meals. Second, you should have a lean protein source with each meal. Consuming protein with each meal has been shown to boost metabolism, which will result in additional calories burned throughout the day. Your protein source should be either meat, fish, chicken, turkey or eggs. Third, each meal should consist of an additional fruit and an additional vegetable, above and beyond the cabbage soup. This will provide your body with plenty of fiber, helping to keep you regular while cleansing your digestive tract. Fourth, you should also aim to consume a small portion of healthy fat at each meal. Healthy fats include monounsaturates like olive oil, peanut oil, sesame oil and avocados, along with polyunsaturates like walnuts, almonds, fish oil, and sunflower seeds.

Making these changes to the cabbage soup diet will result in more sustainable weight loss by providing your body with an adequate number of calories throughout the course of the diet. Furthermore, you will avoid the risk of malnutrition that is ever-present with plans like the original soup diet. Whereas the original diet was only meant to be followed for a week at a time, this revised version can be safely adopted indefinitely, nourishing your body and gradually taking you closer to your physique goals.

Heart Healthy Vegetables

Vegetables paired with fruits and a generally healthy diet can help you lead a heart healthy life. Vegetables are good for the heart because they contain antioxidants which help reduce the free radicals in our bodies that can contribute to heart disease, heart attack, stroke and cancers. A good indication of vegetables high in antioxidants is the color. Bright, colorful vegetables are better for the heart because they contain more antioxidants.

The Best Heart Healthy Vegetables

While all vegetables are good for your health and colorful vegetable are the best, there are certain vegetables that are better for your heart than others. Green leafy vegetables are better for your heart and make a more significant impact on your heart health than other vegetables. Green leafy vegetables include lettuce, spinach and greens such as collards or kale. Other vegetables that have been proven to be good for heart health include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and sprouts.

Recommended Servings

To maintain a healthy diet you should eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. A study done at the Harvard School of Public Health found that the amount of fruits and vegetables consumed over a long period of time was directly correlated to the decrease in incidence of heart disease, heart attack and stroke. People who consumed the recommended five servings a day lowered their risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke by 20 percent, whereas people who consumed eight servings a day lowered their risk by 30 percent.

Fresh Vegetables versus Processed Vegetables

Vegetables are sold in many forms, from fresh and frozen, to canned and dried. When shopping for vegetables, the best to buy are obviously fresh vegetables. Fresh vegetables pack the most nutritional punch to benefit your heart because they have not been processed. Processed vegetables oftentimes have added sodium that can decrease the health benefits, and they lose some of their nutritional values during processing. If you must buy canned, dried or frozen vegetables, be sure to read the labels and select the ones with the least amount of sodium. This is especially important for canned vegetables.

Preparing Vegetables for Heart Health

When preparing vegetables, some of the nutritional value can be lost during cooking. The best way to prepare vegetables and keep their heart healthy content is to use little or no fattening oils. Try to use half of the oil or margarine you would normally use to saute your vegetables. Think about stir-frying your vegetables with water and a small amount of oil. Steaming your vegetables is also a great way to cook them without adding fat. It is also a good idea to get into the habit of washing and eating your vegetables raw for the most heart healthy impact.

Orange and Pineapple Diet

Oranges and pineapples are two fruits that are high in Vitamin C and other important vitamins and nutrients. As such, these products are often consumed by dieters seeking to lose unnecessary pounds or avoid further weight gain. If you are considering an orange and pineapple diet, first speak with your physician to ensure you are receiving the proper amount of calories and nutrition.

The Pineapple Diet

People who participate in pineapple diets seek to lose weight by consuming only pineapple for a set amount of time, generally one to two weeks. Dieters generally eat one half to one pineapple a day. Although some dieters juice the pineapple in a juicer, many dieters claim eating the pineapple as is results in a fuller feeling. Because pineapples are rich in Vitamin C, thiamine, potassium and manganese, proponents of the diet claim the body remains nourished throughout the diet. However, the pineapple diet has not been proven to increase weight loss.

The Orange Diet

People following an orange diet aim to lose weight by consuming only oranges for one to two weeks, as well as eight glasses of water daily. Oranges are high in Vitamin C and fiber, and are reputed to help break up fatty tissue that may develop in the body. Many dieters juice the oranges before consuming. Because oranges are available all year, this diet is easy to follow and relatively inexpensive.

Diet Controversy

Proponents of the orange and pineapple diets claim these plans work to boost the metabolism and help shed unnecessary weight. Furthermore, because both fruits are low in carbohydrates and high in Vitamin C, many believe the diet is healthy.

Nutritionists, however, claim any diets that involve consuming only one food product are unsafe and unhealthy, and that any weight lost during the diet is quickly regained once you start eating normal foods. Doctors maintain that eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits along with exercise will result in the largest, most permanent weight loss.