Where Diets Go Wrong

When we discover that we are heavier than we want to be, we have a natural inclination to eat less food. We may skip lunch or eat only a tiny amount of our dinner in the hope that if we eat less our body will burn off some of its fat. But that is not necessarily true. Eating less actually makes it more difficult to lose weight.

Keep in mind that the human body took shape millions of years ago, and at that time there were diets. The only low-calorie event in people's lives was starvation. Those who could cope with a temporary lack of food were the ones who survived. Our bodies, therefore, have developed this built-in mechanism to help us survive in the face of low food intake.

When researchers compare overweight and thin people, they find that they are roughly the same number of calories. What makes overweight people different is the amount of fat that they eat. Thin people tend to eat less fat and more complex carbohydrates.

Losing weight is not something one can do overnight. A carefully planned weight loss program requires common sense and certain guidelines. Unfortunately, there's a lot of misinformantion floating around and lots of desperate people are easily duped and ripped off.

Being seriously overweight and particularly obesity can develop into a number of diseases and serious health problems, and it is now a known fact that when caloric intake is excessive, some of the excess frequently is saturated fat.

The myth is that people get heavy by eating too many calories. Calories are a consideration it's true, but overall they are not the cause of obesity in America today. Americans actually take in fewer calories each day than they did at the beginning of the century. If calories alone were the reason we become overweight, we should all be thin. But we are not. Collectively, we are heavier than ever. Partly, it is because we are more sedentary now. But equally, as important is the fact that the fat content of the American diet has changed dramatically.

People who diet without exercising often get fatter with time. Although your weight may initially drop while dieting, such weight loss consists mostly of water and muscle. When the weight returns, it comes back as fat. To avoid getting fatter over time, increase your metabolism by exercising regularly.

Select an exercise routine that you are comfortable with and remember that walking is one of the best and easiest exercises for strengthening your bones, controlling your weight and toning your muscles.

You hear it all the time - "metabolism", but what is it? It's the process of converting food to energy (movement and heat). Metabolism happens in your muscles and organs and the result of it is what we commonly refer to as "burning calories". Metabolism is essentially the speed at which your body's motor is running.

"Basal metabolism" is the metabolic rate or caloric expenditure needed to maintain basal body functions such as your heart beating, breathing, muscle tone, etc. It's how fast your "motor" is running when you're still in a reclined position or sleeping. Basal metabolism accounts for about 75% of the calories you expend on a daily basis!

The good news is that there are 12 ways you can "boost" your metabolism! The more of these you're able to incorporate into your life, the more you'll boost your metabolism. That means you'll be expending ("burning") more calories 24 hours a day!

1. Always eat breakfast! Skipping breakfast sends the message to your body that you're starving because you haven't had food in 18+ hours. As a protective mechanism, your metabolism slows down. Food, especially complex carbohydrates, fuels your metabolism.

2. Eat earlier in the day! Research has demonstrated that you can lose weight simply by eating a substantial breakfast and lunch, and a light dinner. Dinner should be eaten as early as possible, preferably at least four hours before bedtime.

3. Never eat less than 1200 calories per day! Less than 1200 is usually not enough to support your basal metabolism and thus will slow your metabolism.

4. Snack frequently! Complex carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, and grains) fuel your metabolism. Also, snacking prevents you from becoming too hungry. The hungrier you are, the less control you have over what and how much you eat.

5. Eat more carbohydrates (food from plants), and less fat (food from many animals and other food with added fat)! Carbohydrates boost your metabolism and have fewer calories per weight than fat.

6. Do some type of aerobic exercise (walking, jogging, swimming, stationary cycling, aerobic dancing, etc.) on a daily basis (preferably in the morning)! Forget this twice-a-week stuff. Our bodies were designed to be active on a daily basis! When we are, our metabolism soars!

7. In addition to your regular aerobic exercise, take a brisk 10 to 15 minute walk at lunch or in the evening. This serves to boost your metabolism even more!

8. Tone your muscles with weight training three days per week. Toned muscles send your metabolism through the roof. Do it!

9. Look for situations to be active. Park as far from the store as you can rather than looking for the closest parking spot. Use the stairs rather than the elevator, a broom rather than a blower, etc. Look for the "hard" way to do things!

10. Avoid alcohol! Alcohol depresses your metabolism and stimulates your appetite.

11. Drink 60+ ounces of water a day. Your metabolism needs plenty water to function properly. Carry a bottle of water with you and drink frequently throughout the day.

12. Don’t get discouraged.  There are NO quick fixes!

The Positive Weight Loss Approach

Once you have made up your mind to lose weight, you should make that commitment and go into it with a positive attitude. We all know that losing weight can be quite a challenge. In fact, for some, it can be downright tough. It takes time, practice and support to change lifetime habits. But it's a process you must learn in order to succeed. You and you alone are the one who has the power to lose unwanted pounds.

Think like a winner, and not a loser - - remember that emotions are like muscles and the ones you use most grow the strongest. If you always look at the negative side of things, you'll become a downbeat, pessimistic person. Even slightly negative thoughts have a greater impact on you and last longer than powerful positive thoughts.

Negative thinking doesn't do you any good, it just holds you back from accomplishing the things you want to do. When a negative thought creeps into your mind, replace it reminding yourself that you're somebody, you have self-worth and you possess unique strengths and talents.Contemplate what lies ahead of you. Losing weight is not just about diets. It's about a whole new you and the possibility of creating a new life for yourself. Investigate the weight loss programs that appeal to you and that you feel will teach you the behavioral skills you need to stick with throughout the weight-loss process. First you should look for support among family and friends. It can be an enormous help to discuss obstacles and share skills and tactics with others on the same path. You might look for this support from others you know who are in weight loss programs and you can seek guidance from someone you know who has lost weight and kept it off.

There are success stories across the country today. On television and in newspapers, magazines and tabloids about people who have miraculously lost untold pounds and kept it off. In all instances they say their mental attitude as well as their outlook on life has totally changed.

Diets and weight loss programs are more flexible now than they once were and there are many prepared foods already portioned out. They are made attractive and can be prepared in a matter of minutes. Low-fat and low-calorie foods are on shelves everywhere.

You will probably need to learn new, wiser eating skills. You will want a weight loss regimen that gives you some control, rather than imposing one rigid system. Look for one that offers a variety of different eating plans, so you can choose the one that's best for you.

Keep in mind, too, that your weight loss program will most likely include some physical exercises. Look at the exercising aspect of your program as fun and recreation and not as a form of grueling and sweaty work. The fact is that physical fitness is linked inseparable to all personal effectiveness in every field. Anyone willing to take the few simple steps that lie between them and fitness will shortly begin to feel better, and the improvement will reflect itself in every facet of their existence.

Doctors now say that walking is one of the best exercises. It helps the total circulation of blood throughout the body, and thus has a direct effect on your overall feeling of health. There are things such as aerobics, jogging, swimming and many other exercises which will benefit a weight loss program. Discuss the options with your doctor and take his advice in planning your exercise and weight loss program.

Wachters' has developed several products to assist you with your weight loss.  While there is no magic pill that will allow you to be a size 2 by tomorrow morning we have some products to help support your body so that your weight loss can be a little easier.

#17 Aqua Pro

In addition to Soy Protein:

Chlorella is a nutrient-dense green algae, that is beneficial for its effects on serum lipids and cholesterol, hypertension, detoxification and immune enhancement. One of the most important aspects of naturally cultivated Chlorella is its chlorophyll content. In fact Chlorella has five times the amount of chlorophyll than its multi-celled neighbor, spirulina. Chlorophyll production is made possible through natural photosynthesis. It is through this natural process that Chlorella gets its rich green color.

The Benefits of Chlorella:
- Has been shown to be an excellent treatment for Epstein-Barr virus and Cytomegald virus, using approximately 4,000 mg each day in divided doses. • Chlorella, has been shown to be helpful in treating pancreitis • Detoxifier of heavy metals - Cancerous growths - Protection against effects of ultraviolet radiation - Controlled growth factor, that will increase energy and the immune system when taken on a regular basis - Helpful in reducing high cholesterol - Allergies - High blood pressure - Bowel toxins - Liver toxins - Skin problems - Heart problems - Weight loss The average dose for maintenance can be 1,000 - 3,000 mg per day, depending on body weight.


Our Chlorella is Non Toxic
Chlorella has been consumed for over thirty years in Asia. In Japan sales typically exceed 2,000 tons per year. That's over $500 million in annual retail sales! Thirty years of continued use without side effects speaks for itself.

Greater Digestibility
Naturally cultivated cracked cell Chlorella is rich in protein, vitamin B12, beta carotene, and many other vitamins and minerals. It includes all eight essential amino acids, lipoic acid, and is rich in RNA & DNA. Also important is Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF), a nucleotide-peptide containing molecule. Wachters’ Chlorella is a broken cell wall, which is essential for the maximum digestibility of protein and other nutrients.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a single cell type of algae that thrives in warm alkaline fresh water. Spirulina is one of the most natural, clean foods that can be found in nature. It is the highest source of natural Beta-Carotene, Vitamin D and GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid). Spirulina contains all nine essential Amino Acids. It is extremely high in natural protein.

Spirulina is a food that has extremely long shelf life. It contains 26 times the calcium of milk and has a good supply of niacin and phosphorus. It is of great help to almost any kind of ailment known to mankind. It helps build the blood, gives energy, and strengthens cells and tissue. Spirulina helps balance blood sugar and satisfies hunger.

Spirulina balances RNA/DNA, it helps the brain function and gives better mental clarity. Energy is noticed in a few short days as well as a keen alertness. Spirulina is a complete protein, contains the complete Complex vitamins and the essential Trace Minerals and Fatty Acids.

Spirulina helps the body to detox in a natural way and eventually will rid the body of toxic poisons. It helps the body with mineral absorption and, helps reduce cholesterol.



BENEFITS OF SPIRULINA:

* Stimulates immune system to destroy invading disease organisms and carcinogens.

* Potentiates the immune system with its anti-tumor, anti-viral and interferon inducing effects.

* Helps to sanitize the bowel by detoxifying the colon and promoting the growth of friendly bacteria.

* Promotes tissue repair in wounds and burns and has anti-infectious properties.

* Decreases cholesterol levels and helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

* Works as an anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce the inflammation characteristic of arthritis.

* Provides superior nutritional support as one of nature's whole foods for anyone who is weakened by disease, alcohol or drug abuse.

* Helps to balance RNA/DNA (nucleic acids)

* Curbs the appetite and helps to stimulate the metabolism.

* Works like an antioxidant in detoxifying the body of pollutants.

Phosphatidyl choline is the active ingredient in lecithin. Lecithin is a fatty substance that is needed for a wide variety of crucial bodily functions, such as building cell membranes and helping nutrients move in and out of cells. Phosphatidyl choline, which is an important source of the B vitamin Choline, only comprises about 15% of the lecithin that we derive from natural food sources; however, lecithin supplements can contain a wide range of between 10% to 98% of this active ingredient. The higher the concentration, the more expensive the supplement.

How can Phosphatidyl Choline benefit you?

Phosphatidyl choline breaks down fat deposits in the body, making it valuable in the prevention of atherosclerosis and heart disease. It is also essential to the liver, and helps strengthen its role in removing toxins from the body. As such, people afflicted with hepatitis and cirrhosis may find it beneficial. It can also enhance gallbladder health, and prevent gallstones.

Phosphatidyl choline is broken down into choline in the body, and a lack of choline will adversely affect healthy adults quickly. Studies have shown, in fact, that within 30 days of a choline deficient diet, indications of liver problems will manifest.

New and promising studies also show that this supplement may enhance memory and help people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. However, as of now, these tests have been confined to rats, and not human subjects.

Alfalfa Juice Concentrate is a tonic for conditions relative to the kidneys and the reproductive system. It is also a musculoskeletal and glandular tonic plus helps to strengthen the blood vessels, making it useful for individuals who bruise or bleed easily.  Recent studies suggest that alfalfa can help the body to ward off heart disease and strokes by delaying the absorption of cholesterol and dissolving plaque deposits on the arterial walls. It is one of the highest nutrient herbs available containing high levels of beta-carotene to help strengthen the immune system. High in vitamin A which is a natural infection fighter. It has just about every mineral and vitamin in it. It helps curb bad body odors, neutralizes poisons and acids, hardens bones, helps prevent tooth decay, acidity body, allergies, arthritis, digestive disorders, fatigue, morning sickness, lactation and hemorrhages.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has historically been known for assisting the functions of the gastrointestinal tract and for its properties of soothing, cleansing and helping the body to maintain healthy tissues. This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as supporting kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent over acidity - a common cause of digestive complaints.

Yucca
Yucca root contains a foaming, soapy sap. It is most often included in formulas designed to "break up obstructions" which include the chronic degenerative diseases, arthritis and rheumatism. It contains saponins that are precursors of cortisone which is an anti-inflammatory naturally produced by the adrenal glands. This may be another way that yucca is helpful for arthritis. Yucca alkalizes the body as it cleans out waste acids. By cleaning the colon and regulating colonic bacteria, yucca helps to reduce the burden on the other eliminative systems of the body; kidneys, liver, lymph, and blood.

#74 Snaks

Soy Protein - see above benefits

Lecithin
Lecithin
Lecithin is essential to every cell and organ in the body. It provides nourishment to the body so that the body can regulate metabolism, increase defenses and break down fat and cholesterol. Lecithin also helps prevent arterial congestion, helps distribute bodyweight, increases immunity to virus infections, cleans the liver, and purifies the kidneys.

L-Carnitine
L-carnatine is part of every muscle cell. It draws fatty acid molecules into the mitochondria, where they are burned to produce energy. In doing so, the level of blood triglycerides are reduced. A deficiency of L-carnitine can result in the buildup of fat in muscles, heart and liver. A deficiency can occur from crash dieting or when too much fat is consumed. L-carnitine has been used effectively to treat several fatty liver disorders.

L-Glutamine
L-Glutamine helps the body to regulate energy efficiently. It is needed to burn glycogen (a primary fuel for the brain); it stimulates mental alertness and learning ability. I-glutamine is also needed in the brain as a neurotransmitter. Supplementation reduces behavior problems and autism is some children. L-glutamine reduces cravings for sugar and alcohol in larger doses. It has been used to reduce the many pains and fatigues of inefficient metabolism.

Chromium
Chromium is the central atom of GTF (Glucose Tolerance Factor). Insulin works with the GTF molecule to regulate blood sugar levels by transporting glucose into the body's cells. The liver also needs chromium to manufacture and control fatty acids, lecithin, cholesterol and lipoproteins.

Pyruvate
Pyruvate (pyruvic acid) is in important chemical in all living cells. Pyruvate increases the body's ability to metabolize carbohydrates in the mitochondria of each cell where calories are burned and energy produced. It also helps to move glucose from the bloodstream into the muscle cells using a process called "glucose extraction".

Potassium Glycerol Phosphate is a potent energizer that enables the body to utilize oxygen more efficiently. It will increase alertness and help maintain proper electrolyte balance.

D-Ribose Large amounts of ATP, the body's primary energy-carrying molecule, can be lost from heart and skeletal muscle cells during strenuous exercise or during periods of restricted cardiovascular or peripheral circulation.  Ribose, a naturally occurring pentose sugar (table sugar is a hexose sugar), allows the body to quickly replenish lost ATP energy stores.  Studies show that ribose can increase both the new synthesis and recovery of adenine nucleotides (ATP, ADP, and AMP).  Ribose, taken before, during and after high-intensity exercise, will help maintain high energy levels and provide peak performance.