How to Eat a Heart Patient Diet

Here, an exercise physiologist explains what a heart patient should eat and how much. Learn what foods a heart patient can enjoy and keep in their diets and which ones to limit. Figuring out what you can and can't have can be confusing and depressing but it doesn't have to be. Find out more here about what makes a healthy diet for a heart patient.

Instructions

1

Eat lots of vitamin C. When you have heart disease and get the flu, you have a higher risk of having a heart attack. Vitamin C can help your body's immune system fight the flu and prevent complications for a heart patient through diet. Don't just eat oranges and lemons. Green leafy vegetables are a rich source of vitamin C, too.

2

Control your blood sugar. Whether you already have diabetes or you simply have high blood sugar, it's important to keep these levels in check. Eat small meals all day long this way: breakfast + snack + lunch + snack + dinner + snack. Skip white sugars and flours. Go for grains with "whole wheat flour" as the first ingredient on the label to keep your blood sugar under control.

3

Lower your cholesterol through diet, exercise, and drugs if prescribed by your doctor. The FDA has labeled foods with more than 6 grams of soy protein per serving as a good way to reduce cholesterol by up to 10%. If you don't like tofu, no problem. There are ways to eat soy in foods you already enjoy without tasting it. Try cereals fortified with soy, soy protein isolate (powder in a can), and miso stirred into your soups and sauces. A heart patient diet doesn't have to be a miserable one.

4

Cut total fat and eat more good fats. As a heart patient, your diet should have no more than 30% of the calories coming from fat. No more than 10% should come from saturated fat. You'll need to skip fats that are solid at room temperature or ones that come from animal products. If you can't go for fat free at first, try reduced fat and work your way down until you're used to the taste.

Seventh Day Adventist Church History

The Seventh Day Adventist Church has a rich history which extends over 100 years. It began as a mission and developed into a worldwide church opening schools and hospitals all over the globe in an effort to finish the work of the gospel.

Founders

The Seventh Day Adventist Church was founded in 1963 by a few reformers who were originally a part of the Millerite Movement. Ellen G. White one of the founding members has written several books which the church hold as sacred.

Beliefs

Seventh Day Adventist have 27 fundamental beliefs that they adhere to. Among their many beliefs are the seventh day sabbath, the spirit of prophecy and dietary laws as given in the Bible.

Medicine

Promoting alternative health methods, Seventh Day Adventist use all natural herbs to treat the sick.

Diet

Members are required to exclude pork, shell fish, coffee, teas and caffeine from their diets. Although it's not required many members have chosen to abstain from all meats and live as vegetarians.

Fun Fact

The church began with 3,500 members. Today there's 15,660,347 members of the Seventh Day Adventist Church and 64,017 churches worldwide.

Benefits of a Wheat Free Diet

Starting a wheat-free, or gluten-free, diet is a great way to improve your health. Many people have a small allergic reaction to either wheat or gluten, which usually goes unchecked. Symptoms such as rashes, itchy skin, and hives may form, often without known causes. Starting a wheat-free diet has several positive side effects.

Allergy Relief

A wheat-free diet is a blessing for allergy sufferers. Dry, itchy skin which appears soon after meals with foods containing wheat will be a thing of the past. Also, flushing of the skin and the aforementioned hives will no longer be a problem with the absence of wheat and gluten products.

Digestive Help

A wheat-free diet will promote a healthier digestive tract by allowing for easier flow throughout the system. Wheat and gluten byproducts often hinder digestive procedures, clogging up the intestines and creating a number or health issues, short term and long term.

Prevents Weight Gain

A wheat-free diet helps in the maintaining--and possible loss of--weight. Excess wheat tends to stick around inside the body long after any nutrients are pulled and actually promotes weight gain. By eliminating wheat and gluten from the diet, the body's natural metabolism is able to work virtually unhindered.

Joint Health

A wheat-free/gluten-free diet may help in the relief of joint pains brought on by osteoporosis and arthritis. Gluten has been linked to inhibiting the body's natural defenses against joint pain and thought to be a leading factor in its origin (see link in Resources).

Brain Health

A wheat-free diet is also a great plan to follow when at risk for a number of brain-related illnesses. Seizures can be brought on by excessive intake of wheat and gluten, leading to permanent damage or death. Their omission is also recommended for those with Down's syndrome and Autism.

IBS Relief

A wheat-free diet may help in the dissipation of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Although a doctor should be consulted in this matter, the omission of wheat and gluten from sufferers of IBS has been reported to help curb ongoing symptoms.

Blood Health

Some blood types do not appropriately absorb wheat and gluten, resulting in possible blood-related illnesses. A doctor should be consulted to find out if a certain blood type is at risk and, if so, a wheat-free diet is recommended.

How to Practice Hindu Kirtan

Hindu kirtan, also called bhajan, is to glorify God by singing mantras or devotional hymns. Kirtan is an important part of Hindu devotion (Bhakti).

Instructions

1




Chant mantras to the Deva (god) or Devi (goddess) whom you are worshiping. "Hare Krishna" is a well-known mantra or chant. Perform kirtan before an altar of the god. Adorn the altar with images of the god, flowers, water and fresh fruits.

2




Chant with love. Love of God, known as Bhakti, creates raising your voice in joyous devotion.

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Gather to chant in satsang. In Satsang, devotees gather and discover their unity in love of God. Together they sing and dance out of love of God.

4




Chant mantras appropriate to the god you worship A popular chant to the God, Shiva is, "Om Namah Shivaya Shivaya namaha, Shivaya namah om Shivaya namaha, namaha Shivaya Shambhu Shankara namah Shivaya, Girija Shankara namah Shivaya." This essentially means that you call on the sound of the universe (OM), bow to Shiva and affirm that the god in you bows to the God, Shiva.

5




Read the Bhagavad Gita, which teaches about Bhakti, devotion to God.

How to Improve Asthma With an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Asthma causes inflammation in the airways, so consuming anti-inflammatory foods might be beneficial for sufferers. According to the American Medical Association, more than 30 million Americans live with asthma. While you should not stop your prescribed medications, you might be able to reduce the severity of your symptoms by eating an anti-inflammatory diet. The Lyon Diet Heart Study demonstrated the benefits of the Mediterranean diet (similar to an anti-inflammatory diet) on heart disease, also an inflammatory condition. Following an anti-inflammatory diet might be beneficial not just for your asthma but for your overall health as well.

Instructions

1




Brightly colored fruits and vegetables reduce inflammation.

Eat seven or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Choose from a colorful variety such as oranges, strawberries, blueberries, spinach and red cabbage. The brighter colors contain more phytochemicals, which will reduce the inflammation in your body.

2




Whole-grain foods are more nutritious and filling than food made from processed grains.

Eat whole grain foods such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa and barley. These are grains with minimal or no processing. Whole grains provide disease-fighting antioxidants, B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, iron and fiber, which all contribute to reducing inflammation in the body. Avoid white flour, white rice and wheat that does not say "whole wheat," as these contain minimal nutrients and do not fill you up.

3




Grilled chicken breast is a good source of lean protein.

Eat healthy sources of protein like fish, chicken, nuts and beans. Do not eat red meat more than twice a week and be certain it has almost no visible fat as the excess fat can contribute to inflammation. Dairy products provide protein but can be high in fat so stick with nonfat milk, low-fat yogurt and low-fat cheese. Aim for two to four servings of protein daily.

4




Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy fat.

Consume two to three servings of healthy fats and/or plant oils daily. This includes avocados, extra virgin olive oil, canola oil, soybean oil and flax. Avoid coconut oil, palm oil, margarine, shortening, butter and anything that has "partially hydrogenated" in the ingredient list. These contain saturated fats, which are harmful to the body.

5




Fish oil capsules are an excellent source of omega 3.

Include at least one source of omega 3 in your diet every day. This includes wild salmon, flax oil, walnut oil, omega 3-enriched eggs and fish-oil supplements. The American Heart Association advises people who already have heart disease to take 1 gram a day. The anti-inflammatory effect of omega 3 is helpful for heart disease, asthma, diabetes and numerous other diseases.

6




Walking and running are good choices for exercise.

Exercise for 30 minutes per day at least five days per week. This can reduce stress, which triggers inflammation. Excess body weight can also cause inflammation in the body, so exercise and follow the food plan to stay lean.

Allergy Rotation Diet Plan

Allergy rotation diet plans are useful for people with multiple allergies in preventing new allergies and identifying hidden allergies in common foods. Rotation diets are sometimes used along with elimination diets to treat existing food allergies and prevent new ones from developing. Rotation diets involve eating biologically related foods on one day, and then avoiding those foods for a period of time.

Significance

An estimated 12 million people in the United States suffer from an allergy to one or more foods. When one of these foods is ingested, the body mistakes the food protein for a harmful invader. The resulting immune system reaction is what causes the symptoms of allergic reaction. Repeated exposure to potential allergens increases the risk of developing an allergy to those items.

Features

Rotation diets work by limiting exposure to potential allergens, and providing the body and immune system with a rest period following ingestion of high-risk foods. High-risk foods include all of the "big eight" allergens (egg, wheat, soy, cow's milk, peanut, tree nuts, fish and shellfish), along with any suspected allergens. Typically, if a high-risk food is eaten one day, you must avoid that food for the following three to five days. Members of the same food family also must be avoided during that time. For example, if you eat yogurt on day one, you cannot eat any dairy products, or foods containing dairy, for the following several days.

Benefits

In addition to reducing the risk of developing new allergies, allergy rotation diet plans help uncover hidden causes of allergic symptoms. By strict adherence to the diet plan, it may be possible to identify mild allergic symptoms to foods that went unnoticed while on a regular diet. You are then able to remove these foods from your diet. By limiting exposure to potential allergens and high-risk foods, your immune system is less likely to respond defensively to those items. This makes it less likely you will develop a new allergy, and actually increases the number of foods you can tolerate. Health benefits are noticeable within a few weeks.

Drawbacks

For anyone not used to monitoring his diet, rotation diets can be difficult to implement. They can also be expensive to begin, as replacement foods must be purchased before beginning the diet. However, this increase in cost will eventually even out. It may also be extremely difficult for anyone who frequently has meals outside of the home to track every potential allergen ingested. This is because many common ingredients used in food preparation in restaurants contain potential allergens, such as milk, wheat, soy or egg.

Warning

Allergy rotation diet plans are not safe for everyone. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from any health conditions other than allergies, a rotation diet is not recommended. Young children should also not follow a rotation diet, as it may lead to nutritional deficiencies and impair growth and development. Allergy rotation diets should be developed with assistance from a doctor or a certified nutritionist.

How to Survive the Sacred Heart Diet

The Sacred Heart Diet is a fad diet which is similar to the cabbage soup diet and promises to help the dieter to lose ten or more pounds in seven days. It is unhealthy, unsustainable and difficult to stick to. It is guaranteed the weight will come back quickly. However, if you have a special event coming up quickly that you want to lose a few pounds for, it does work for the very short term.

Instructions

1

The diet mainly consists of a vegetable soup you must eat every day, as many times as you want. By the time the week is over, you will not want soup for a long time. Here is what goes in it: 1-2 cans of tomatoes, onion, 1 can of fat free beef broth, 1 package of Lipton chicken noodle soup mix, chopped celery, green beans, and 1 bag chopped carrots. You can season with hot sauce or soy sauce. Simply combine everything and boil until vegetables are soft. To make it less boring, add fresh herbs such as cilantro, rosemary or cumin.

2

Every day you eat the soup and you can drink black coffee, unsweetened tea and water. No soda. Here are the day by day instructions.

3

Day 1: Eat soup and any fruit except bananas. Nothing else.

4

Day 2: East soup and vegetables, no fruit and no starchy vegetables like corn. For dinner have a baked potato with butter.

5

Day 3: Eat soup, vegetables (raw or cooked) and fruit. No potatoes or other starch.

6

Day 4: Eat soup, bananas and skim milk. Nothing else. Eat at least 3 bananas, and have as much skim milk as you'd like. (You may never look at a banana again)

7

Day 5: Beef! Eat soup and up to 20 ounces of steak. Have as many tomatoes as you'd like.

8

Day 6: Beef and vegetables. Have soup, as much steak s you'd like, and leafy vegetables. No starch.

9

Day 7: (Almost there!) Eat soup, unsweetened fruit juice, brown rice and vegetables, no corn or potatoes.

Heart Healthy Detox Diet

Maybe you've been overindulging in heavy foods during the holiday season. Maybe you're getting older and your doctor says you need to start making changes to your diet. Or maybe you have a family history of heart disease and want to do everything you can to protect yourself. Whatever your reasons, deciding to eat better food to protect your cardivascular health can be a major lifestyle change. By adding some new types of food to your diet and removing the more troublesome kinds of junk food, you can detoxify your diet and improve the health of your heart.

Protein

Red meat tends to be high in saturated fat. Instead, opt for sources of protein that are lean, such as chicken, salmon or soy. Salmon, mackerel and herring contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help prevent blot clots. According to CNN, soy protein may help you lower your cholesterol. In recent years a number of very tasty soy meat substitutes have hit supermarket shelves, making cutting red meat from your diet a lot more enjoyable than it was in decades past. Be careful, however, to avoid soy products with a lot of added sodium, which can raise your blood pressure. Black beans are another great source of protein, and also are an excellent source of B vitamins, folate, omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber.

For a protein-filled, heart healthy snack, have a handful of almonds or walnuts. Both kinds of nuts contain a host of heart-healthy compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids, mono- and polyunsaturated fats and phytosterols.

Carbohydrates

Oats are one of the best whole grains you can add to your heart healthy diet. Whole grain oats are a great source of soluble fiber (which can help lower your cholesterol), as well as beta glucan. Oats can be found in breads, cookies, oatmilk and of course, oatmeal. For a new twist, try steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats. In general, replace all the refined flour-based products in your diet with whole grains. This includes pasta, bread and cereals.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are the cornerstone of your heart healthy detox diet. Eat plenty of dark leafy greens like kale, which contains folate and helps to keep homocysteine levels low. According to the American Heart Association, studies have linked elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood to a higher risk of heart disease.

And believe it or not, the old adage that "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" is completely true! Apples contain a phytochemical called quercetin, which acts as an anti-inflammatory that can help prevent blot clots. Try to eat fresh fruits and vegetables and avoid fruits packed in heavy syrup or vegetables covered in creamy or cheesy sauces.

Dairy

If you must drink milk, switch from whole to skim, or replace cow's milk with plant-derived milks made from soy, almond, hazelnut, hemp or oat. Avoid processed cheeses, and try to eat only reduced-fat cheeses.

Fats, Oils and Salt

Reducing salt intake is a crucial step for protecting your heart. Stop adding salt to your food and boost the flavor with herbs and spices instead. Avoid trans fats, and cook with olive oil instead of butter. Less than 7 percent of your total daily calories should come from saturated fat.

How to Lose 17 Pounds in a Week

How can you lose 17 lbs. in a week? Most would say it's impossible to lose that amount of weight by adhering to a healthy diet and exercise regime. That's true. However, if you are significantly overweight and want to be encouraged by significant weight loss in a short period of time, a modified fast can work, although this type of stringent regime is not recommended for more than 7 to 10 days.



According to calorielab.com, the Master Cleanse was originally developed in 1940 by health practitioner Stanley Burroughs as a stomach ulcer cure. Burroughs also promoted the diet for weight loss and the remedy for a host of diseases.

Instructions

1




Laxative herbal tea is an important part of this diet plan.

Drink a cup of laxative tea the night before you start the diet. The next morning, drink a salt water flush. Make the salt water flush by adding 2 tsp. of sea salt to 32 oz. of warm water. Drink the entire amount. This will stimulate several liquid bowel movements during the day. Drink the salt water flush every day while on the diet.

2




Lemons provide important nutrients in the Master Cleanse diet.

Squeeze enough lemon to make 2 tbs. of lemon juice (about half a lemon). Add the lemon juice to 10 oz. of distilled water

3

Add 1/10 tsp. of cayenne chili pepper and 2 tbs. of grade B maple syrup to the lemon juice. Drink 6 to 12 glasses per day. For maximum weight loss, drink only six glasses of the mixture.

Things for Teenagers to Do in Paris

Interesting Facts About Epilepsy

The average person may view epilepsy as a mysterious and scary condition when, in fact, it's simply a brain disorder that causes seizures of various types. A look at epilepsy reveals some fascinating facts, as well as a colorful history.

Blink and You Miss It

Some types of epileptic seizures are so brief, they go unnoticed. Absence ("petit mal") seizures can last only two to 15 seconds, during which time a person might stare blankly, blink or pick at his clothes. Then he'll resume his business, having no recollection of the seizure.

Hippocrates Sheds Some Light

Before 400 B.C., people believed epilepsy was a curse that afflicted people with the gift of prophecy. Then Hippocrates wrote the first book about epilepsy called "On the Sacred Disease," in which he classified it as a brain disorder.

Epilepsy & Eugenics

By 1914, 12 states had enacted Harry Laughlin's Model Eugenical Sterilization Law. It forbade people with seizure disorders, along with those who were "feeble-minded, insane, criminalistic, inebriate, diseased, blind, deaf, deformed and dependent," to marry or have children. The law also allowed people with epilepsy to be sterilized.

Treating by Eating

The ketogenic diet, created in the 1920s and still used today, is one of the oldest treatments for epilepsy. This diet simulates the effects of fasting, which decreases the frequency of some types of seizures.

The Writer's Disease

Many famous classical writers had epilepsy, including Sir Walter Scott, Edgar Allen Poe, Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Lewis Carroll and Charles Dickens--to name only a few.

Amaranth Benefits

Amaranth is one of the most important groups of plants to emerge from the Americas after the discovery of the New World in the 15th century. Most of the approximately 60 species share similar traits, and many are used worldwide as a nutritious food source for both people and domestic animals. Studies indicate that amaranth may have some medical benefits, as well.

Nutritional Benefits

The highly nutritious seeds and leaves are the two main parts of the plant used for food. The seeds can be ground into flour and used to make bread, cookies, crackers, cereals and other items that traditionally are made from wheat flour. Unlike wheat, though, amaranth seeds are gluten-free yet high in protein. They are also abundant in minerals such as iron, magnesium and phosphorus. The leaves are often used as a pot herb in Africa and the Caribbean and are a good source of vitamins A and C as well as calcium.

Medical Benefits

According to an article in the Jan. 5, 2007, issue of the medical journal "Lipids in Health and Disease," studies have shown that amaranth is similar to oats in its ability to lower cholesterol when included as a regular part of a dietary plan. Amaranth oil seems to not only benefit sufferers of hypertension and coronary heart disease but can also be used as a natural antioxidant supplement. Additionally, amaranth seeds are low in saturated fats, high in fiber, and rich in the amino acid lysine.

Other Benefits

Amaranth is sometimes utilized as a protein-rich forage for animals such as hogs, and some varieties are believed to be drought-tolerant, making it as versatile as sorghum in this respect for farmers. Many species of amaranth are used as ornamental plants. Love-lies-bleeding and prince's feather are two of the more well-known examples of decorative flora. Some species of amaranth also attract butterflies and moths, which may be of interest to avid gardeners.

How to Eat Healthy for your Heart

Eating heart healthy is a matter of eating those foods which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and limiting those foods which contribute to heart disease. Heart healthy eating is a plan that can be followed by every member of the family with the exception of children under the age of 2. Young children require more fat in their diets.

Instructions

1

Get your protein from low-fat sources. Eat lean meat, poultry, fish, egg whites, low fat or skim milk. Full fat meats and dairy products are high in saturated fat and calories. Fast food meals are also usually high in fats and calories.

2

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals, are rich in dietary fiber and low in calories. Be sure you don't add butter or other fats to your vegetables. Fruits and vegetables don't need to be organic to be good for your heart.

3

Lose the salt shaker. Eating large amounts of salt can contribute to high blood pressure. High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart disease. Learn to read food labels and seek out lower sodium products.

4

Nutrients found in whole grains help regulate blood pressure and contribute to heart health. Choose whole grain breads, brown rice, high fiber breakfast cereals or oatmeal and whole grain pasta.

5

Learn about portion sizes and eat moderately. Try to keep your diet balanced and allow yourself a treat now and then.

Poisonous Foods for Parrots

Sometimes you may wish to feed your parrot something you are eating at meal times. If so, it is important for you to know what is safe for a parrot to eat and what is poisonous. Some plants or fruits should never be fed to your pet. If your bird gets ill, this is usually serious, and you should take it to a vet immediately. Remember to check with your vet in case you are unsure about the effect a certain substance will have on your parrot.

Unsafe Food

Anything with a high fat content is unsuitable, as is anything with high sugar or salt levels. Chocolate, for example, is toxic, as is alcohol or caffeine. Generally, large beans, like kidney, lima or soy, should never be fed raw to a parrot. Once thoroughly cooked, they are safe to use. Curry powder is to be avoided. Garlic is safe in small quantities. Onions in a large amount are toxic, but in small amounts are all right. Mushrooms as a type of fungus can eventually cause liver failure. Remove all green plant parts around the tomato before feeding your bird tomato. The vine and leaves are toxic to parrots.

Unsafe Fruits

Apricot seeds or peach can cause a reaction. This is because there are small amounts of cyanide in the seeds of the rose family, also consisting of apples, cherries and pears. Any part of the avocado -- flesh, skin or seeds -- is poisonous and can cause cardiac problems. Ingestion of mistletoe berries can cause diarrhea, vomiting, breathing difficulties, hallucinations and death. Rhubarb leaves are poisonous, but the stalks are safe to eat.

Unsafe Plants

Castor beans from the castor oil plant can cause a decrease in blood pressure and blood glucose. A simultaneous increase in serum hepatic enzymes like AST, ALT and LDH can cause stomach upset with diarrhea, vomiting, trembling and sudden collapse with seizures. Agave in any form such as from the sap or leaves causes immediate burning on skin and oral mucosa irritation. Almond plants or seeds plus almond nuts can cause allergic reactions. Amaryllis, also known as belladonna, causes abdominal pain, drooling, depression and loss of appetite. Azaleas can cause heart failure and coma. Avoid begonia, bleeding heart, caladium and calla lily. Catnip has been shown to produce drowsiness, disorientation and odd behavior. Chinese sacred bamboo is to be avoided too. Chrysanthemum results in vomiting and diarrhea. Daffodil bulbs cause severe gastrointestinal illness. Avoid delphinium, dumb cane, English ivy, philodendron, holly and hydrangea, Jack-in-the-pulpit and jimson weed. Kalanchoe causes anorexia, excessive salivation, cardio-toxic effects and labored respiration. Lantana, milkweed, marijuana and morning glory are poisonous. Oleander can slow the heart rate. Pencil cactus plant is harmful and poisinettia can cause irritation to the stomach lining. Rubber plant produces a loss of coordination in birds, as does the umbrella tree. Shamrock, sweet pea, tulip, weeping fig, yew, yucca and zamioculcas are all to be avoided.

How to Tell if Your Parrot is Poisoned

Droppings that are yellow, brown or black can show internal bleeding. If they are extra runny or firm, this also signals health problems. Respiratory problems may be indicated by birds sitting with their feathers ruffled up. The cere of the bird just above the beak can be red or have discharge around it. Discharge from eyes or cloudy eyes can be a problem. Should you see any of these signs, take your bird to a vet immediately. Other signs can include weight loss, changes in your bird's voice, open-mouth breathing and tail bobbing.

Miami Heart Institute Diet Plan

The Miami Heart Institute Diet Plan claims that those following it will lose 10 pounds in three days. The diet includes such foods as hot dogs, eggs and ice cream. Also known as the Spokane Heart Diet, Sacred Heart Memorial Hospital Diet and the Cleveland Clinic Diet, this diet is not recommended by the American Heart Association, and so those considering it are advised to check with a doctor.

Foods

The foods to be eaten on the Miami Heart Institute Diet are very specific. The diet outlines what is to be eaten when, and in what quantity. Breakfasts selections include grapefruit, black coffee, toast, peanut butter, eggs, bananas, saltine crackers, apples and cheddar cheese. Lunch items include tuna, toast, coffee or tea, cottage cheese, saltine crackers, hard-boiled eggs and toast. Dinner items include green beans, lean meats, beets, hot dogs, broccoli, carrots, bananas, cauliflower, cantaloupe, apples and vanilla ice cream. Other variations of this diet include tomatoes, beef, onions, potatoes, soups, celery, brown rice and other fruits.

Warnings

Though it is sometimes falsely attributed to the American Heart Association, the Association does not recommend the Miami Heart Institute Diet Plan. The American Heart Association advises a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fat; the Miami Heart Association Diet Plan includes both. The Miami Heart Institute Diet Plan is regarded as an unsustainable fad diet.

Results

Whether or not this diet will indeed result in a 10-pound weight loss in three days in up for debate. Experts seem to agree that there is not anything special about this combination of foods. If the Miami Heart Institute Diet Plan includes fewer calories than what you were eating before, you may lose weight. But because this is considered a fad diet, consult with a doctor before attempting it.

Sacred Heart Diet Tips

The Sacred Heart Diet, also known as the Miracle Soup Diet, requires dedication. With a limited intake of calories and few foods to choose from, this diet should only be followed for one week or two at most.

Diet Guideline

Each day, you can eat soup (see recipe in Resources) and just one food group.

Day 1: Eat just fruit and soup.
Day 2: Eat just vegetables and soup.
Day 3: Eat both fruits and vegetables with soup.
Day 4: Drink skim milk and eat three bananas and the soup.
Day 5: To get enough protein, you can eat unlimited quantities of meat and soup.
Day 6: Consume beef, vegetables and soup.
Day 7: Eat wild rice and soup.

Drinks permitted include coffee, skim milk, water and unsweetened juice.

Variety Is the Best Spice

Though you can have "just" fruit on Day 1, select an abundance of different fruits. Produce offers a wide selection of fruits and vegetables that range in taste. An avocado, tomato and peach taste completely different but all are fruits. Likewise, meat can come in the form of patties for hamburgers, steaks or chunks, and each can make a very different meal. Use the variety of each food group to keep meals each day interesting. Cooking techniques can also keep dishes fresh: Sauteing, steaming or boiling foods create very different tastes.

Stay Hydrated

The soup is high in sodium, so drink plenty of water to combat it. The Mayo Clinic warns that too much sodium causes fluid retention and increased blood pressure. Though fruits and vegetables on Day 1 to 3 are water-rich, on other days, particularly the last, drink plenty of fresh water. Always carry water with you as well.

Keep It Portable

Fresh fruits, vegetables and this particular type of soup will not be readily available at the office or restaurants. Planning ahead is important: Take a gallon of the soup with you to work and place it in the fridge. Keep your desk stocked with fruit. Dried fruit is especially portable.

Get Support

To avoid feeling left out when your family and friends go out to eat, ask one of them to join you on the diet. By dieting as a team, you can stay motivated and commiserate when others are unsympathetic toward your endeavor. Your friend might have great ideas for how to make tasty smoothies on the first day or how to make a rice stew on the seventh day.

How to Store Fresh Aloe

The aloe vera plant produces a gel that is used in home remedies for conditions that range from sunburns to cold sores. While snapping off a leaf and squeezing out the gel is handy for cuts or abrasions, it wastes a lot of the useful gel. Storing aloe vera gel is a straightforward task and can help you keep a ready supply of aloe vera gel on hand and prepared for use.

Instructions

1

Cut off one of the outermost leaves of your aloe vera plant using a sharp knife. Choose a leaf that is thick and green and cut it at a slight angle, relatively close to the base of the plant.

2

Stand the aloe leaf cut-end down in a cup for about 15 minutes. This lets the latex (sap) drip out of the plant. The latex of the aloe vera plant is a laxative and needs to be removed before storage. There may be no latex dripping out if the leaf is small.

3

Cut off the tip of the aloe vera leaf and slice off the serrated edges down the two sides.

4

Lay the aloe vera leaf flat on the cutting board.

5

Slice through the meaty part of the aloe vera leaf so that you can separate the front and the back of the leaf.

6

Lay the two parts of the leaf cut side up on the cutting board.

7

Use a spoon to scoop out the clear gel that is clinging to the inside of the leaf. Scrape it out lightly, but avoid pressing too hard, or you might get some latex as well.

8

Place the gel in a food-safe plastic container.

9

Add a drop of vitamin E oil and a drop of grapefruit seed oil to the gel to avoid discoloration.

10

Close the container and store it in the refrigerator until you need it. It will keep for about 3 weeks.