On February 9, 2004, the Food and Drug Administration FDA issued a final rule prohibiting the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids or ephedra. It stated that such supplements present an unreasonable risk of illness or injury. FDA also reiterates its advice that consumers stop using ephedra products immediately.

Two thousand years ago ephedra under the name Ma huang was used in Chinese medicine to treat several disorders. Amongst other illnesses, asthma and bronchitis were treated with ephedra. Ephedra comes from a plant that has a few powerful active compounds, of which ephedrine is the most useful.

Ephedra is a shrub-like plant that is found in desert regions in central Asia and other parts of the world. The dried greens of the plant are used medicinally. Ephedra is a stimulant containing the herbal form of ephedrine, an FDA-regulated drug found in many over-the-counter asthma medications.

In the United States, ephedra and ephedrine are sold over-the-counter OTC in pharmacies and in health food stores under a variety of brand names. Currently, ephedrine is widely used as a weight loss drug, as an energy booster, and as an athletic performance enhancer. These products often contain other stimulants, such as caffeine, which may have synergistic effects and increase the potential for adverse effects.

Over the past few years, ephedra has gained much more attention for its side-effects an increased metabolism, plus the thermeogenic and fat-burning qualities that come along with it. This gives the body stimulation and provides energy. Thanks to these qualities, ephedra now has the reputation of being a fat-burner, smartdrug and sports supplement. A reputation that has recently become controversial because of the ban on ephedra products in the United States and the Netherlands.

Studies have suggested that herbal supplements are generally not advised by the established medical community, including continuous warnings from the FDA. The real problem with herbal supplements is not in their effectiveness, but their side effects, which often include drastic increases in blood pressure and heart problems.

Ephedrine alkaloids are amphetamine-like compounds used in OTC and prescription drugs with potentially lethal stimulant effects on the central nervous system and heart. The FDA has received more than 800 reports of adverse effects associated with use of products containing ephedrine alkaloid since 1994. These serious adverse effects, include hypertension elevated blood pressure, palpitations rapid heart rate, neuropathy nerve damage, myopathy muscle injury, psychosis, stroke, memory loss, heart rate irregularities, insomnia, nervousness, tremors, seizures, heart attacks, and death. The agency has proposed to prohibit the marketing of dietary supplements containing eight milligrams or more of ephedrine alkaloids per serving.

Despite its many potentially harmful side effects, ephedrine is for the most part, dangerous only if abused. Nevertheless, it offers a variety of positive qualities in terms of its beneficial effects on particular aspects of the mind and body. One of its more significant qualities is its potential effect on weight loss.

In short, ephedrine has shown promising signs in terms of its generally positive effects on the human body, especially on the reduction of fat and body weight. But research has also shown that is is virtually impossible to achieve weight loss without a healthy diet and regular exercise. Therefore, it seems that the most logical solution to lose weight must involve the proper combination of diet, exercise, and drug interaction. Ephedrine may hold the key to fill in for the drug portion of the equation, but as with practically all drugs, there are risks involved. Whether ephedrine is too dangerous to be sold in OTC products, is still under debate. Ephedrine does have great potential, yet is it worth the risks?

People exercise or workout for various reasons. Many workout to build their muscles while others exercise to lose some weight and burn excess fat. While exercise indeed has many health benefits, doing them properly is the key to improved overall health. In line with this, warming up and stretching are important in any physical activity. These activities play critical roles in preparing the body for workouts, both physically and mentally. Having proper warm-up and stretching routines before workouts may decrease the chances of developing injuries.

Stretching and warm-up are two different things. A lot of people confuse stretching with the warm-up phase. Stretching is a part of the warm-up routine, but stretching alone is not the warm-up.

The term warm-up is described by many as light-aerobic and cardiovascular activities. Sports specialists believe that the time spent on warming up may improve the level of performance and boost the recovery process needed before training or competition. In addition to these benefits, warms-ups are needed to alter the body from a resting state to an exercise state.

A good warm-up session may prepare the body for workout by increasing the blood flow to the muscles, boosting body temperature, and speeding-up metabolism. A warm-up activity is usually the slower-paced version of the activity that is about to be done. For example, before going for a long jog, warm-up by jogging in place or doing a couple of minutes of light jog.

Warming-up may also do the following

increase the heart and respiratory rate
boost the amount of nutrients and oxygen delivered to the muscles
prepare the body for a excruciating workout
make it easier to burn more calories
extend one’s workout routine

A good warm-up session, which is about five to ten minutes works best if followed by stretching. This is done because stretching cold muscles may lead to pulled or torn muscles. Stretching properly may lead to increased range of movements and help prevent injuries by prompting recovery and decreasing muscle soreness. Health experts believe that the possibility of getting injured may decrease if the tendons and muscles are more conditioned.

Stretching is beneficial only when done correctly. Below are some of the things that should be remembered when stretching

Stretch only when the muscles are warm or after a warm-up session.
Breathe deeply through each stretch.
Listen to your body and know your stretching limitations. Mild tension during every stretch is normal, but do not go beyond the point where too much pain is experienced.
Hold each stretch for at least ten seconds.
Stretch slowly and don’t bounce. Rapid bouncing may tear and overstretch the muscle fibers and tendons.
Never stretch forcefully.

Warming up and stretching before and after working out is important in maintaining a healthy body. These workout routines however should be done properly to reap its health benefits. Before starting a fitness program, individuals are encouraged to seek the advice of doctors and other health professionals. They may devise a fitness program and diet appropriate for the health needs of various individuals.

A switch to a raw, vegan, natural foods lifestyle requires a little creativity and a lot of getting used to. It may feel at first as if we are giving up more than we are gaining.

When I became a ‘raw dude’ I expanded my tastes by experimenting and trying different foods that I previously paid little or no attention to. One of these newfound treasures was coconut.

I am blessed to live in a tropical climate where coconuts grow in abundance so that also had an influence on my desire to include more coconut in my daily diet. I’ve heard amazing things about the healing properties of coconut oil- some of which I will share in this article in hopes that you’ll be convinced to give coconut a try.

You can’t keep a good oil down!

The false and misleading information that has been widely distributed marking coconut oil, or saturated fats, as bad was pushed by the corn oil industry. As we know, whenever huge profits are at stake, the truth is hidden and replaced with lies to support the profit agenda.

However, coconut oil which is far more nutritious and beneficial than corn oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, soybean oil, and even olive oil- contains no dangerous trans-fatty acids. Trans-fats can raise LDLs, commonly known as ‘bad’ cholesterol, and lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more.

Coconut oil increases metabolism and supports healthy weight loss.

Coconut oil’s saturated fat is a medium-chain fatty acid which means it is digested more easily than other fats. Whereas, other fats are stored in the body’s cells, the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil are rapidly broken down and converted into energy putting less strain on the liver, pancreas, and digestive system. By activating the metabolism, coconut oil is outstanding for those with thyroid issues.

Coconut oil is antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-cancerous. It enhances the immune system by destroying lipid-coated viruses such as HIV, herpes, influenza, and various pathogenic bacteria.

There are many uses for pure, virgin coconut oil. If you are interested in getting a more in-depth view of healthy saturated fats that should be included in your diet, Dr. Mary Enig’s, Eat Fat, Lose Fat The Healthy Alternative to Trans Fats, is a clear, understandable read on ‘good’ fats. Dr. Enig provides a lot of information on coconut oil as well as other healthy, saturated fats.

Uses of Coconut Oil

As a stable cooking oil
salad dressing
shakes, smoothies, juices
skin moisturizer
massage oil

I feel the best and most complete benefits come from the whole, natural coconut eaten regularly as a part of a natural foods diet. But if you don’t happen to have a coconut tree in your backyard then you must make sure you are getting the highest quality virgin coconut oil.

Some requirements to look for would be

certified organic, USDA standards
low-level heating to preserve natural nutrients
made from fresh coconuts, not dried
no chemical additives
no refinement
non-GMO
no hydrogenation
no hybridized coconuts

Superior quality makes a big difference, not only in regards to health and safety, but also in regards to taste and cooking quality if you use it in sautees and stir-frys. However you use your coconut oil, you can be assured that you are fortifying yourself with healthy, natural foods that taste good and are good for you!

Individuals who want to stay fit and healthy have been incorporating physical activities like cardiovascular training and weightlifting into their fitness routines, almost making exercise the center of their lifestyle. These people are often in a hurry to improve their physique or level of physical fitness that they have forgotten the importance of flexibility training. This kind of training is probably one of the most underrated and undervalued component of conditioning and physical fitness.

Flexibility training increases the the body’s range of motion. With flexibility, a person’s athletic performance is enhanced, with the risk of acquiring injuries greatly reduced. Stretching also speeds up metabolism. These benefits are achieved by improving blood flow into the different internal organs and muscles. Flexibility training helps lengthen the muscle fibers, facilitate ease of movement, while improving muscle recovery and strength. Flexibility training may also reduce muscle soreness, lower back pain, improve coordination and posture, and ease stress and anxiety in one’s life. In addition to these health benefits, various medical studies suggest that regular stretching enables the body’s internal organs to function properly because of improved blood flow.

However, the benefits of flexibility can only be enjoyed if proper training is done. Individuals who fail to perform proper flexibility training may develop injuries and hamper their workout goals. People who want to engage in flexibility training should include the following

Before stretching, individuals should remember to perform warm-up exercises. These exercises may loosen up the muscle, improve blood flow, and prepare them for flexibility training.
Do not bounce ballistic stretching when performing static stretches. Medical experts suggest that ballistic stretching may cause immediate and residual pain. In the long run, it may lead to serious muscle damage.
Try to hold for at least 15-30 seconds to achieve long term flexibility benefits.
Perform flexibility and cool down exercises after workout to return the muscles to their resting stage.
Stretch gradually. Stretch only to the point where mild muscle tension is felt. If there is pain, then you might be doing it wrong. Move into each pose gradually and exhale while doing it.

Warming up is a crucial part of a flexibility program. A good flexibility program works best if a good warm-up session of about five to ten minutes of brisk walking or jogging is done before it. This is done because stretching cold muscles may lead to pulled or torn muscles. Health experts believe that the possibility of getting injured may decrease if the tendons and muscles are more conditioned.
Warming-up exercises may also bring the following health benefits

Increase the heart and respiratory rate
Boost the amount of nutrients and oxygen delivered to the muscles
Prepare the body for a more strenuous workout
Make it easier to burn more calories
Extend one’s workout routine

A well-planned flexibility training program which includes warm-up exercises may improve fitness and overall health, regardless of age. Physical activities and workouts should not be done hastily. People who want to lose weight or improve their fitness level should remember that there are no shortcuts to physical fitness. Proper training may prevent injuries that may hamper one’s workout program. Individuals who want to engage in flexibility training should seek the approval of doctors and other health professionals. Some medical conditions may prevent certain individuals from performing flexibility poses and stretches.

Everyone knows the value of exercise and other physical activities to one’s health. Unfortunately, many modern day individuals are preoccupied with the ever-increasing demands of work, family, and other important matters that they have no time to include exercise in their schedules. Countless individuals are seeking ways to improve their physique, develop their muscles, and eliminate stress without consuming too much time.

A great way to improve one’s health and physique is by doing a workout program called circuit training. This kind of training program involves moving from one strength training routine to another, in a specified amount of time, with the goal of working the major muscle groups in the upper body, lower body, and core. Individuals who want to try this program should remember that no two consecutive exercises should target the same muscle group. During circuit training, individuals usually perform exercises in about 20 to 30 seconds with a 30 second recovery between each exercise. Three to five sets of exercises are done with a three minute recovery between each set.

Circuit training may improve strength, muscle endurance, and metabolism because of constant movement. In addition to these health benefits, if circuit exercises are done at speed, some benefits of aerobic exercises can be achieved as well. However, this type of program alone may not burn enough calories to promote significant weight-loss. This exercise program, like other workout programs, have advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of circuit training includes

Development of strength and endurance
Ideal form of training for many kinds of sports
Can be adjusted for appropriate age, fitness, and health of individuals
Exercises are simple enough to make individuals feel a sense of achievement in completing them
A wide range of exercises are available that will suit an person’s preference

Disadvantages of circuit training may include the following

Many exercises require equipment dumbbells, barbels, exercise ball, etc
Ample space is required to perform circuit exercises
Use of some equipment require appropriate health and safety monitoring

Just like other exercise programs, circuit training should be done properly and in moderation to achieve improved health. Some people are in such a hurry to improve their health that they tend over-train. Over-training should be avoided because too much or too intense physical activity may take its toll on the body. This happens because the body literally undergoes wear and tear during training. To build muscles and improve the body, it needs to rest to attain normal development. Medical studies show that over-training may cause fatigue and cause respiratory infection. In addition to these ailments, men who over-train may experience a decline in sperm quality and production. This happens because intense physical activities may reduce the level of the hormones in the bloodstream that affects the sperm. Normal sperm production and quality may return to normal after two to three days of rest.

Before beginning circuit training and other physical activities, individuals are encouraged to seek the advice of doctors and other health specialists. They may devise an exercise program and diet that are appropriate for one’s health needs. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of physical activities may lead to improved overall health.

Slow metabolism is frequently blamed for excess weight. The good news is we no longer have to be the victim of slow metabolism. We can actually be the creator of our metabolism. Knowing how your body works and using that knowledge to achieve your health and fitness goals, will get you results sooner with less frustration and aggravation. My goal is to help you get the most from your effort and see results.

How your metabolism works. Metabolism is the speed at which your body burns through food. As you get older, your metabolism decreases and you dont require the same number of calories as when you were younger. The rate the metabolism decreases as we age is determined by the amount of muscle mass we have on our body. Greater muscle means higher metabolism. If youre over 40, you probably arent as active as you used to be. You arent playing sports or chasing kids around the house. If you dont use your muscle, youll lose it.

Digestion process burns calories. I teach my clients to eat 3 meals throughout the day breakfast, lunch and dinner and then an additional 2 to 3 healthy snacks between meals. Many of us have been conditioned to think that if we eat less, we will weigh less. The opposite is true but we must be careful to eat quality instead of quantity. There is the thermic value of nutrients the actual calorie burning properties of nutrient digestion. This means that healthy, balanced eating offers a metabolic advantage. Eating is thermic or produces heat. Since a calorie is a measure of heat, balanced eating equals more calories expended.

Keep aerobic exercise moderate. Believing that aerobic exercise is the secret to burning fat is only half-correct. Too much aerobics subject us to a repetitive catabolic state where it literally is eating up muscle tissue. You can burn fat anytime you are in an aerobic state. If you are sitting and reading this article, you are in an aerobic state. You are in an aerobic state anytime you are meeting demands for oxygen. This is why proper nutrition and weight training is critical to maintain and build muscle. You can burn fat while you sleep with lean muscle mass. I use aerobic exercise to keep my heart, lungs and circulatory systems healthy and use weight training to burn calories and keep my metabolism healthy.

Muscle is metabolism. As we age, we begin to lose muscle. This is called muscle atrophy. The key is to preserve muscle to fight fat and keep your metabolism healthy. The muscle you have on your body is in direct correlation to the number of calories you burn at any given moment. Muscle doesnt know age. You can maintain or build muscle at any age with weight training. I believe training with weights is more important as you get older because you are typically less active and your muscle will get soft from lack of use. Dense muscle mass is key to having a strong and healthy metabolism. If you would like more information on how to increase your metabolism, send Linda an email and write maximize your metabolism in the subject line.

Build muscle, eat 5 6 small meals a day, and keep your aerobic activity moderate. For more information and tips on exercise, go to