Steps To Increase Metabolic Rate
November 29, 2008
The importance of metabolic rate comes into the picture the moment we decide to lose weight. This is because in order to lose the unwanted fat we need to increase the body processes and enhance the fat burning process.
The common mistakes that weight watchers make is to take up wrong diets and extreme dieting which actually lowers to the basal metabolic rate. Such bad dieting tips make the body lose its potential lean body mass rather than fat.
How To Increase The Metabolic Rate:
1) Drinking sufficient quantity of water daily helps in the fat burning process. Water can never replace any kind of juices or supplements. A dehydrated body causes the metabolic rate to slow down. The toxins accumulated in the system can be flushed out only with water. Once these impurities in the body are removed, the metabolic rate automatically goes up.
2) Carbohydrates play a vital role in the body. Most dieters avoid carbohydrates thinking that they will cause weight gain but this is a myth. Good carbohydrates actually help the body get its source of energy and helps in the overall functioning of the body. Eating some form of carbohydrate before a workout is essential as this increases the metabolic rate.
Carbohydrates eaten before an exercise regime will be broken down and utilized immediately as the workout progresses. This helps the body assimilate the essential nutrients which burn, repair and heal the body. Protein and fiber rich foods should be taken after the workout.
3) Intensity in your workouts can increase the metabolic rate. Some experts recommend to superset the workout. This way it confuses the body and results in faster fat burning.
Weight gain is a universal problem faced by millions worldwide. The best way to ensure weight loss is to understand your body’s needs and lifestyle. Before taking up any exercise program consult your doctor to understand what exercises are best suited for you.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2008. All Rights Reserved.
Sleep Inducing Foods
November 24, 2008
What you eat decides on how well you will be able to sleep at night. Taking a pill for sound sleep is not a solution for sleeplessness. Insomnia sets in due to many factors and it can be cured. But many take the easy way out by taking medications. Every medicine has its side effects so it is best that one learns how to invite sleep naturally.
There are various foods that help to induce sleep and some which work against it. Here is a list to help you understand various options.
1) Dairy products assist in sleep because they contain tryptophan. A glass of milk with honey, a bowl of yoghurt and even a banana help to induce sleep naturally. Honey and banana too contain tryptophan.
2) A gap of three hours before bedtime gives you good sleep. This is because there is a less load on the digestive system.
3) Avoid snacking before bedtime. This will only cause weight gain. If you are hungry, then eat a light snack of fresh fruits or juices. Going to bed on an empty stomach will lead to sleepless night.
4) Cut down on caffeine levels from evening so that the nights are peaceful. Caffeine is not just found in coffee but also in chocolates.
5) Ditch alcohol. Most people believe that alcohol induces sleep but this is a myth. It will only give you a nasty hangover in the morning. There are also chances of you getting up many times in the night than you do otherwise, thus ruining a restful slumber.
6) Nicotine has similar effect like caffeine. Many prefer to smoke before bedtime but it only works against the body.
7) Spicy and pungent food before bedtime tends to give acidity and heartburn. This should be completely avoided.
8) Deep breathing exercises before bedtime helps to relax the mind. Block your worries for the night and focus on your rest.
Sleeping is essential for the mind and body. So go an extra mile to see that you are able to accomplish minimum eight hours of snooze.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2008. All Rights Reserved.
Creative Ways To Make Potpourri At Home
November 20, 2008
Enhance your creative skills by making designer potpourri at home. Potpourris are not just for creating a refreshing ambience for your home but it also a way to protect the environment. The use of aerosol cans filled with fragrant solutions will be cut down. You will breathe easy without the added chemicals in your surrounding and also help the ozone layer.
A potpourri is a combination of various dried herbs, leaves, flowers, seeds and cones that are mixed together to smell exotic. They add uniqueness to the room and ideal for places where the weather is humid.
How To Make A Potpourri:
1) Take a clear glass or ceramic bowl and add to it dried leaves (e.g. basil, mint, citrus etc) and flower petals.
2) Add spices like bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves etc. It depends on what fragrance you prefer.
3) Add a fixative such as orrisroot, tonka or gum benzoin. The basic measurement for using a fixative is two to three teaspoon per 4 c. of petals.
4) If you are using a clear glass bowl then ground fixative will be more suitable.
5) Gently toss the mixture and cover the bowl tightly.
6) Keep this mixture at room temperature for five to six weeks.
7) Stir the mixture gently periodically.
8) Don’t be alarmed when you get a slightly off smell from the rotting leaves and petals. It will smell better as the week progresses.
9) To spice up this mixture, add few drops of essential oil (lavender, citrus). But don’t go overboard with it.
10) The mixture can be wrapped in netted pouches with attracted cords and shiny ribbons. With this you can add few loving words on a card and present it to your loved ones.
Potpourris make ideal gifts and are most appreciated as you have made them with love and care.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2008. All Rights Reserved.
