Showing posts with label Diet and Nutrition. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Diet and Nutrition. Show all posts

Tuesday, 26 November 2024

10 Ways to Biohack Your Diet


Dave Asprey, the founder of “Bulletproof Coffee” and the “Bulletproof Diet”, is a proponent of biohacking and a self-proclaimed biohacker. He defines biohacking as, “using science, biology, and self-experimentation to take control of and upgrade your body, your mind, and your life. To become a “superhuman” version of yourself without becoming overwhelmed, stressed or feel like you need to give up”. He created his entire bulletproof program around this mantra.

 

Here are 10 effective ways to biohack your diet according to the research provided by Dave Asprey and his Bulletproof Diet program. 

 

Eliminate Sugar

 

Eliminate added sugar from your diet. Soft drinks, processed foods, and flavored yogurt are a few examples you can get rid of that are loaded with added sugar. Sugar increases your risk of developing type two diabetes, increases inflammation in the body, decreases energy levels, and promotes weight gain. Ditch those added sugars and switch them to something healthy like naturally occurring sugars found in low glycemic fruit like berries.

 

Increase Your Vegetable Intake

 

Eat 6 to 11 servings of organic vegetables every day. Asparagus, bok choy, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kale, and spinach are great options. The more vegetables you can get into your body the better.

 

Eliminate Grains and Gluten 

 

Avoid gluten and grain such as corn, oats, and barley. Most of these foods have a negative effect on the body. They cause inflammation and an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the gut and can be a leading cause of candida or yeast overgrowth.

 

Keep Fruit Intake Low 

 

Reduce your fruit to about two servings a day and always eat whole organic fruit. Stick to low sugar fruits as much as possible such as blackberries, coconut, and avocado. 

 

Eliminate Processed Food

 

It is no surprise that processed food is bad for your health. They are loaded with chemicals, sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium. Processed foods also are high in synthetic additives, colorings, and flavorings that cause many health problems. 

 

Eat Grass-Fed Meat and Wild-Caught Seafood 

 

Choose grass-fed and wild-caught seafood. The quality of your meat is important for optimal health. These foods are high in nutrients, healthy fats, and are usually free of added hormones and antibiotics. Plus, they fill you up so that you eat less.

 

Eliminate Legumes 

 

Legumes are beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts. These should be avoided because they are usually low in nutritional value and prevent your body from properly absorbing protein. They stall weight loss and contain harmful chemicals like BPA; a carcinogen commonly found in plastics.  

 

Eat Healthy Fat 

 

Your body depends on healthy fat such as omega 3s and omega 6s for survival. 50 to 70% of your calories should be from healthy fat; mostly saturated fat. Grass-fed butter, avocados, and grass-fed meat are all examples of healthy fat. 

 

Supplement Where Needed 

 

Dave Asprey suggests to always supplement with food first and only supplement with vitamins when needed. Determine what supplements you need by getting a blood test first or paying attention to any symptoms you may be having. Always avoid multi-vitamins as they are usually low in quality and are not balanced. 

 

Cook Your Food Differently 

 

Eat your food raw if possible or slightly steamed to get the most nutrients from your food. For meat eat it boiled, baked, or lightly grilled. Avoid burned or blackened food because it can produce carcinogens. 

 

As you implement these 10 diet hacks track your progress in a journal or on an app on your phone. Take note of the changes that are occurring in your body, so that you know what benefits you are receiving and whether these hacks are right for you or not. Remember to eat until you are satisfied and listen to your body. Don’t under or overeat, let your hunger be your guide. 

 


Tuesday, 19 November 2024

4 Simple Ways to Get Started With Biohacking


Do you have a desire to improve your overall health? Mind, body, and soul? Then biohacking is exactly what you need. Biohacking is making and experimenting with different changes to reach optimal health. The goal with biohacking is to have the increased energy while improving your productivity so that you can be your best self. 


Although it may sound complicated, it’s quite easy to get started. Here are four simple ways to get started with biohacking.

 

Identify Areas That Need Improvement

 

The very first thing you need to is to identify the areas you feel you need to improve. Do you feel like you get enough sleep every day? Do you need to lose a few pounds? Or maybe you just need better time management skills at work or with your social life. Whatever it may be, take a mental note or write it down. This way you know where to start and it won’t seem so overwhelming. The great thing about biohacking is that it is all about your individual path to overall wellbeing; no one else’s. 

 

Track Your Sleep

 

Just like most people in the world, more than likely you are not getting enough sleep. Sleep is one of the most important things for optimal health. Poor sleep can wreak havoc on your immune system and cause unneeded stress and anxiety. Not getting enough sleep can also lead to making poor decisions when it comes to diet and exercise. Lack of sleep is also linked to mental fog and underperformance. Studies show that lack of sleep increases your chances of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. 

 

Track your sleep each night and make sure you get at least eight hours every night. Just remember, if you still don’t feel like you are getting enough with eight hours you can increase it until it works for you. Always keep track so you know exactly how much sleep you are getting each night so that you are aware if you need to improve or not. A great way to stay on track is to use a Fitbit.

 

Track Your Diet

 

Chances are high that there are areas that you need to improve when it comes to your diet. Before you do anything major, write down in a journal or download an app on your phone, like MyFitnessPal, to track your diet each day. Do this for about a week so you know exactly what areas you need to attack first. While you track your diet take notice of any negative reactions experienced from the foods you are eating. Maybe you have sensitivities to foods you are not aware of. Take note so you can rid these foods from your diet first. 

 

Ultimately, you will need to eliminate from your diet sugars, processed foods, and any foods that are causing sensitivities. A diet high in veggies, healthy fats, and quality protein is your best choice. Dave Asprey, the founder of bulletproof coffee, raves about biohacking and created a great diet plan to follow called the Bulletproof Diet. 

 

Track Your Exercise

 

Take notice of how much exercise you are currently getting each week. Invest in a Fitbit or tracker so you can track your steps and the overall number of calories you are burning each week. You maybe be surprised that you don’t get enough exercise each day. Exercise is known to increase energy, promote better sleep, increases your confidence and self-esteem. Exercise also contributes to weight control and prolongs your lifespan. Once you have a general idea of what your daily activity is going to be, find areas that you feel will be easy to improve first such as getting 15,000 steps in each day.

 

Take these four simple steps and to get started with biohacking and improving your quality of life. As you can see, the term may sound overwhelming, but biohacking is actually very simple when you break it down and start slow. Track your sleep, diet, and exercise and use that information to improve your quality of life and your journey to overall wellbeing. 

 


Tuesday, 15 October 2024

8 Ways To Prime Your Brain For Success


Our brains are essential for the quality of physical and mental performance. Smoking, excess alcohol, stress, or poor dietary habits, to name a few, can have a significant detrimental impact on our brain functionality. These habits also contribute to high blood pressure, cognitive decline, and dementia.

 

Fortunately, habits can be changed, and new strategies can be learned. The following tips can help to improve your brain and prime it for success.

 

Try the Mediterranean Diet (MeDi)


High-quality foods are essential for your brain health and physical fitness. The Mediterranean diet focuses on plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, fish, whole grains, and healthy oils like olive and avocado oils. 

 

Based on a study of 502,536 participants, people who followed the principles of the MeDi had a 23% less chance of developing dementia. Also, research has found that the MeDi may improve your cognitive capabilities, such as memory.

 

Reduce Stress with Mindfulness Relaxation


Chronic stress can have a significant harmful effect on brain function. Yale Medicine defines chronic stress as “A consistent sense of feeling pressured and overwhelmed over a long period of time.” In today’s hectic world, there are many causes of chronic stress, such as life changes, an unpleasant career, or family dysfunction. When stressed, the brain increases glucocorticoid production, including the stress hormone cortisol. 

 

Mindfulness is a form of meditation that helps you focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past or situations causing you to worry. Other key concepts include paying attention to your surroundings, accepting yourself, and focusing on your breathing.

 

Be Physically Active


The Center for Creative Leadership asked over 1,500 executives how exercise impacts their performance. Approximately 90% said that physical activity “clearly impacts” their performance, 12% reported “some impact,” and no one reported zero impact.
Respondents reported that regular exercise improved mental clarity and focus, increased alertness, and improved problem-solving.

 

In addition to improving your brain, exercise has physical benefits such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and strengthening your immune system.

 

Stay Mentally Active

 

The human brain must be exercised like a muscle; if your brain doesn’t get sufficient exercise, the result can be early cognitive decline. There are many activities that you can do to give your brain a workout, such as reading, learning a new language, playing games, or working on a jigsaw puzzle.

 

Sleep Well


The importance of sleep and its effect on your brain should not be underestimated. When you sleep deeply, the brain repairs itself and rejuvenates your immune system. When in REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, the brain compiles details you learned during the prior day.

 

Inadequate sleep contributes to feeling exhausted, can cause concentration, mood, and memory disorders, and suppress your immune system.

 

If you cannot go to sleep or stay asleep, create a bedtime routine by going to bed at the same time nightly and waking up at the same time in the morning. Over time, this will help set your internal clock and become a regular sleep pattern. Also:

 

  • Turn off your electronics at least two hours prior to bedtime. This includes cell phones, computers, and social media.
  • Eliminate caffeine after 12:00 p.m. The most common sources of caffeine are coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate.
  • Avoid eating before bedtime to prevent gastrointestinal issues that may keep you awake.

 

Avoid Smoking


While you may feel that cigarettes or cigars help to calm you and are pleasurable, there are risks to brain functionality. A study by the American Heart Association (AHA) found that smoking is associated with cognitive decline, leading to worsening performance. 

 

Be Socially Active


Social interaction can help to reduce stress and depression, preventing memory loss. Look for ways to interact with others, especially if you live alone. Brain atrophy has been linked to a lack of socialization. Being socially active can strengthen your brain health. 

 

Find Inspiration


The things we tend to take for granted can be inspirational and good for brain health. For example, Psych Central notes that watching the sunrise gives you a feeling of awe, bolsters your mood, and helps you to have a “big picture” mentality where we view situations broadly rather than focusing on limited details. It opens your mind to evaluating scenarios entirely rather than breaking them into detailed parts. 

 

People may also find inspiration from art, visiting a park, or watching the sunset.

 

Conclusion

 

A healthy brain keeps our sensory, cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and motor functions working smoothly. It is essential to develop good habits such as eating properly, being physically, mentally, and socially active, and getting sufficient sleep.

 

Practicing the preceding tips can boost brain health, priming your mind for success and well-being!

 

References


https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-023-02772-3

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5502874/


https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/stress-disorder


https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/mindfulness-exercises/art-20046356


https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/spotlight-on-exercise-and-leadership/


https://brainfoundation.org.au/healthy-brain/


https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/str.53.suppl_1.WP17


https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/addressing-your-mental-health-by-identifying-the-signs-of-anxiety-and-depression


https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/maintaining-healthy-relationships-is-important-as-we-age

 


Tuesday, 17 September 2024

15 Super Weight Loss Tips


I’m sure that over the years we’ve all heard our own share of unrealistic and ineffective weight loss advice. From detox diets to spot-reduction exercises and even supposedly nifty things like magic pills or slimming wraps. But the truth is that these fad diets and gadgets barely work, and even if they do the results aren’t long-term. 

 

The key to losing weight is to do it in a healthy manner, that doesn’t do you more harm than good. Here are 15 tried and tested tips that can aid you in this difficult journey. 

 

1. Control Your Portions

 

Starving yourself is never the answer but a little psychological warfare never hurt anyone. Trick your mind into thinking you’re eating more by dividing your meals into smaller portions. So, instead of eating 3 large meals per day, have smaller portions 5 times instead. 

 

2. Skip Out on Seconds

 

Pay special attention to serving sizes on nutrition labels and stop yourself from reaching out for a round of seconds. Having 5 meals a day can effectively solve this problem by ensuring that you don’t go hungry again soon after lunch or dinner. 

 

3. Curate a Diet Consisting of High-fiber and Lean Protein 

 

Fiber is your biggest weight loss ally and lean protein helps you maintain your muscle mass and control your appetite. Incorporate foods that are high in fiber, like fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain, and foods that are rich in lean protein, like chicken, fish, and tofu into your diet. 

 

4. Snack Smartly 

 

If you need to snack between meals, choose healthy, portion-controlled options. Nutrient-dense snacks like mixed nuts, fruit, or yogurt can keep you satisfied and energized without adding additional calories to your diet. 

 

5. Beware of Liquid Calories

 

Calorie-laden beverages like sugary sodas, fruit juices, and high-calorie coffee drinks can add empty calories to your diet without providing the feeling of fullness that solid foods offer. It’s better to stop consuming them if you’re trying to lose weight. 

 

6. Keep Your Body Hydrated

 

Did you know that your body can actually confuse being thirsty with being hungry, causing you to overeat? To prevent this from happening, stay hydrated throughout the day. In addition to that, drink a glass of water before meals to curb your appetite and reduce calorie intake. 

 

7. Make Exercise a Priority 

 

Eating healthy can only get you so far. You have to stay active and work out regularly to lose weight. Try to incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise in your daily routine. Remember that consistency is key, and it will take a few weeks before you see any results. 

 

8. Get Adequate Sleep

 

A poor sleeping schedule leads to late night cravings which in turn results in further weight gain. Getting quality sleep is essential for weight loss. Try to get at least 7 to 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep every day. 

 

9. Be Mindful when Eating 

 

When you eat while watching the tv or using your smartphone you’re unable to appreciate your meals and get hungry soon after. Eating mindfully means that you savor each bite of your food and feel fulfilled after the meal. 

 

10. Meal Prep in Advance

 

When you’re unsure of what to eat, you can end up making impulsive and unhealthy choices. This is why it’s better to meal prep for the whole week in advance. This can save you lots of time and effort, especially on days when you feel low on energy. 

 

11. Avoid Crash Diets

 

If you have a big event coming soon then you might be tempted to start a crash diet to make sure you fit into that new dress you bought. But trust me, these diets are unsustainable and can also lead to nutritional deficiencies and a range of adverse health effects. Avoid them at all costs.

 

12. Track Your Progress

 

Monitoring the daily progress that you make. Keep a food and exercise journal to stay on top of your routines. Smartphone apps can help you track your calorie intake and workouts with ease. Seeing the progress, you’re making gives a sense of fulfillment and motivation to continue. 

 

13. Celebrate the Small Achievements

 

Weight loss is a journey full of milestones. Reward yourself whenever you hit one to keep the motivation going. Whether it’s treating yourself to a slice of your favorite chocolate cake or ordering some takeout. A cheat meal once in a while doesn’t hurt anyone. 

 

14. Cultivate a Body Positivity Mindset

 

Negative self-talk can hinder your progress and motivation. Practice loving yourself and your body. Replace self-criticism with self-encouragement and affirmations to feel good about yourself.

 

15. Share Your Weight Loss Journey with Others

 

Sharing your weight loss journey with others can not only make it easier, but also provide valuable encouragement and accountability. Join a weight loss support group or enlist a workout buddy to boost your motivation.

 

Conclusion

 

It’s important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss. Find the tips that work best for you and make them a part of your daily routine. These 15 tips are just the starting point for your own journey of self-discovery, leading to a healthier and fitter you. 

 


Tuesday, 27 August 2024

15 Super Mental Health Tips


Prioritizing mental well-being is more crucial than ever. With increasing external pressures and internal challenges, it's vital to have strategies in place to maintain and enhance our mental health. While professional help is essential for severe mental health issues, everyday practices can significantly boost our overall mental wellness. 

 

This article delves into 15 super tips, grounded in both ancient wisdom and modern research, to help you navigate the pathways of your mind. 

 

Practice Mindfulness Meditation

 

Mindfulness meditation is a practice that focuses on the present moment without judgment. It's a technique that has its roots in ancient Buddhist traditions but has gained significant attention in modern psychology for its benefits. 

 

Research shows that practicing mindfulness can reduce stress, improve concentration, and even increase one's overall happiness.

 

Taking just a few minutes each day to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and focus on the present can make a significant difference in one's mental well-being.

 

Stay Physically Active

 

Exercise isn't just for physical health; it plays a pivotal role in mental wellness, too. Regular physical activity can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

 

When we exercise, our body releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a high-intensity workout, find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine.

 

Get Adequate Sleep

 

“While insomnia can be a symptom of psychiatric disorders, like anxiety and depression, it is now recognized that sleep problems can also contribute to the onset and worsening of different mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.” (https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org/)

 

Sleep is essential for mental health. Lack of rest can exacerbate feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. It's crucial to establish a regular sleep routine, ensuring you get at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

 

Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed, keep your bedroom dark and cool, and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

 

Connect with Loved Ones

 

“When people are socially connected and have stable and supportive relationships, they are more likely to make healthy choices and to have better mental and physical health outcomes. They are also better able to cope with hard times, stress, anxiety, and depression.” (Centers For Disease Control)

 

Human beings are social creatures. Connecting with friends, family, and even pets can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

 

Spend quality time with loved ones, engage in meaningful conversations, and seek support when needed. Remember, it's okay to lean on others when you're feeling down.

 

Limit Alcohol and Caffeine Intake

 

While a glass of wine or a cup of coffee might seem like a good idea at the moment, excessive intake can negatively impact your mental health. 

 

Both alcohol and caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns and exacerbate anxiety. It's essential to consume them in moderation and be aware of their effects on your mind and body.

 

Set Realistic Goals

 

Setting achievable goals can give you a sense of purpose and direction. Start with small steps and celebrate your achievements along the way. 

 

Whether it's related to your career, personal life, or hobbies, having clear goals can act as a motivating force and enhance your self-esteem. Remember, it's okay to adjust your goals based on changing circumstances or feelings.

 

Take Breaks and Manage Stress

 

It's essential to recognize when you're feeling overwhelmed and give yourself a break. Whether it's a short walk, a day off, or a vacation, taking time to relax and rejuvenate can significantly benefit your mental health. 

 

Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as deep breathing exercises, journaling, or listening to music.

 

Maintain a Balanced Diet

 

What you eat can significantly influence your mental health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can boost your mood and energy. 

 

Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, which can lead to mood swings and feelings of fatigue. Drinking plenty of water also helps in maintaining optimal brain function.

 

Limit Exposure to Negative News

 

While it's essential to stay informed, constant exposure to negative news can take a toll on your mental well-being. Set boundaries for how often and when you consume news. 


Consider designating specific times in the day to check updates and avoid doing so right before bed. Remember to balance the intake with positive stories and news as well.

 

Seek Professional Help When Needed

 

There's no shame in seeking help. If you feel persistently sad, anxious, or overwhelmed, it might be time to consult a professional. 

 

Therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists can provide valuable insights, coping strategies, and support. Remember, taking the step to seek help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

 

Limit Screen Time

 

Spending excessive time in front of screens, whether it's for work or leisure, can negatively impact mental health. Studies have shown that prolonged screen time can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

 

It's crucial to take regular breaks, perhaps following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Also, consider setting a screen curfew before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

 

Engage in Creative Activities

 

Engaging in creative activities can be therapeutic. Whether it's painting, writing, crafting, or playing a musical instrument, expressing oneself creatively can provide a sense of accomplishment and act as an emotional outlet. 

 

The good news is that you don't have to be an expert; the process is more important than the end product.

 

Practice Gratitude

 

Focusing on positive aspects of your life and practicing gratitude can significantly boost mental well-being. Consider maintaining a gratitude journal, where you jot down things you're thankful for each day. 

 

Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can lead to increased happiness and reduced depressive symptoms.

 

Avoid Drugs and Substance Abuse

 

While some might turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism, substance abuse can exacerbate mental health issues. It's essential to be aware of the consequences and seek support if you find yourself relying on substances for emotional relief.

 

Educate Yourself

 

Understanding mental health, its challenges, and various coping mechanisms can empower you to take better care of yourself. 

 

Numerous resources, both online and offline, provide valuable insights into mental well-being. Educating yourself can also help in reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.

 

References


  • Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-based interventions in context: Past, present, and future. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 10(2), 144-156.
  • Babyak, M., Blumenthal, J. A., Herman, S., Khatri, P., Doraiswamy, M., Moore, K., ... & Krishnan, K. R. (2000). Exercise treatment for major depression: maintenance of therapeutic benefit at ten months. Psychosomatic Medicine, 62(5), 633-638.
  • Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep: Unlocking the power of sleep and dreams. Simon and Schuster.