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7 Hidden Reasons Why You Aren’t Losing Weight

September 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Losing weight is one of America’s most common goals, whether for a new year or an upcoming social event. People will go to great lengths to achieve their target number, be it a strict low-carb diet or a juice cleanse.

Internal health rarely factors into a person’s fat loss plan, but it’s one of the most underrated things to consider. Many hidden reasons prompt the body to hold onto excess weight. Moreover, those factors render diet and exercise useless until you address them.

7 REASONS YOU MIGHT NOT BE LOSING WEIGHT

1 – Blood sugar dysregulation

All of the cells in our body require ATP – or Adenosine Triphosphate. This chemical provides energy for many internal processes such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse stimulation, and chemical synthesis. ATP is created via cellular respiration, of which carbohydrates are the preferred fuel source.

Upon carbohydrate ingestion, a person’s blood glucose levels begin to rise. In response, the pancreas secretes a hormone called insulin, which involves moving these sugars into the cells where they belong. Insulin is essential to human life. However, it promotes fat storage when produced in excess.

In a healthy individual, this process runs smoothly, and blood sugar levels return to normal (at least 140 ng/dl or lower, but preferably below 100) approximately two hours after a meal. Sometimes, however, the cells become fatigued and lose their ability to accept insulin efficiently. This is known as insulin resistance, a dangerous condition that can lead to weight gain and eventually type 2 diabetes if left untreated.

Many factors play a role in the development of insulin resistance, including:

Being overweight or obese
Carrying excess abdominal weight, even in the absence of overall obesity
Leading a sedentary lifestyle
Consuming a diet high in refined carbohydrates, such as white flour and sugar

Maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is crucial to prevent unwanted fat gain. This can be achieved by reducing the consumption of processed foods and ensuring each meal contains protein, fiber, and fat. These nutrients slow the absorption of carbohydrates into the bloodstream.

2 – Inflammation

You might understandably overlook the link from losing weight to inflammation.

While some level of inflammation is necessary to fight off infections, problems can arise when it becomes chronic and unrelenting. One resulting issue is weight gain – when the body is experiencing inflammation, its top priority is extinguishing that internal fire. Often, no energy is left over for fat loss to occur until homeostasis is restored.

Investigating the root cause of inflammation is crucial to restoring optimal internal health and kickstarting weight loss.

Carrying excess weight is one of the most significant risk factors for inflammation. This is because overeating increases the body’s immune response, generating inflammation that can lead to many chronic illnesses. This reaction involves mitochondria or cell powerhouses that create energy from fatty acids.

When a person overeats food, these fatty acids accumulate faster than the mitochondria can break them down. Low-grade, full-body inflammation can ensue as a consequence, which often results in weight gain.

Some other familiar sources of inflammation include:

Carrying excess weight.
Food sensitivities.
Poor diet.
Birth control pills.
Gut infections.
Imbalanced blood sugar.
Environmental toxins.
Inadequate sleep.

3 – Hormone imbalance.

One of the main reasons the calories in vs. calories out model is so outdated for weight loss is hormones. Approximately 50 of these chemicals circulate throughout the human body, secreted by endocrine cells located in glands. The substances then enter the bloodstream and activate target cells.

Hormones have an incredible amount of influence on our weight because they regulate BMR, or Basal Metabolic Rate. A person’s BMR is the number of calories they burn daily without physical activity factored in. An imbalance of certain hormones such as cortisol, testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone often leads to a decreased BMR. Fewer calories expended over an entire day can make weight loss akin to climbing Mount Everest – even when a person is doing all the “right” things such as exercising and eating healthfully.

Many factors, including the above causes for blood sugar dysregulation, can be involved in hormone imbalances. Since all the systems in the human body are intricately connected, there is typically no single root cause responsible for the issue. Instead, several elements often build upon one another, eventually culminating in a domino effect that wreaks havoc on the delicate hormonal dance.

Bringing hormones back into balance is a multifaceted process. It usually involves addressing adrenal function, liver detoxification, gut dysbiosis, and insulin resistance, among other pieces of a very complex puzzle. Working with a functional practitioner who uses a comprehensive hormone test such as DUTCH, or Dried Urine Total Complete Hormones, is the most efficient way to restore optimal health.

4 – Hypothyroidism

A small, butterfly-shaped gland located just below the larynx, the thyroid is an essential gland. It regulates metabolism, or the rate at which our bodies break down food and create energy.

T3 and T4 are the two main hormones produced by the thyroid, with T3 being the more potent of the pair. Hypothyroidism, otherwise known as an underactive thyroid, ensues when the body doesn’t produce enough T3 or T4. It could also occur if the body has an issue converting T4 into T3 (the “active” thyroid hormone.)

Insufficient T3 or T4 alerts the hypothalamus to secret TRH, or Thyroid Releasing Hormone. In response, the pituitary gland releases TSH, more commonly known as Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. This complicated chain of events means that, paradoxically, TSH and thyroid function have an inverse relationship. The higher the TSH, the lower the thyroid function is. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Fatigue
Increased sensitivity to cold
Constipation or dry, hard stools
A puffy face
Hoarseness
Muscle weakness
High cholesterol
Muscle aches, tenderness, and/or stiffness
Pain, stiffness, or swelling of the joints
Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
Thinning hair
Slowed heart rate
Depression
Cognitive decline
Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)

Unfortunately, conventional medicine does not have a sufficient understanding of hypothyroidism. It is seen as a root cause despite often being a symptom of something much deeper. The thyroid almost always slows down in response to another condition such as adrenal fatigue, the medical term for which is HPA Axis Dysfunction. That condition can slow your efforts at losing weight.

5 – Gut dysbiosis

The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates stated, “all disease begins in the gut.”

Many disregarded those incredibly wise words until very recent years when scientists began studying the gut microbiome.

Referred to as the body’s “second brain,” the gut impacts almost every internal system and process. Having sufficient beneficial bacteria in the GI tract is crucial for weight management and overall health.

Gut dysbiosis, or an imbalance of “good” vs. “bad” microbes, can contribute to the aforementioned factors behind weight loss struggles. And, those include blood sugar dysregulation, inflammation, hormone imbalances, and hypothyroidism, among other issues.

A person can do many simple things to promote better gut health. These include stress reduction, an unprocessed diet, regular exercise, and fermented foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut. Sometimes, however, these efforts are insufficient to correct a severe bacterial imbalance. A high-quality stool test gives insight into which specific microbial strains are overgrown or insufficient. This lets practitioners tailor a plan unique to each client instead of guessing what steps to take.

6 – Stress

In the fast-paced world we live in today, stress is unavoidable. Most of us are constantly on-edge between our jobs, financial struggles, kids, and relationships. Stress is rarely a purely psychological issue, In fact, it physical stress is very real.

Our bodies have not yet evolved to differentiate between mental anguish and the stress that ensues when a bear is chasing after us. Consequently, we go into “fight or flight” mode whether the burden is physical or emotional – which, for most people, looks like a state of constant anxiety.

Stress signals the secretion of cortisol, a steroid hormone that can increase blood sugar levels even without refined or processed foods.

Here is how this stops your efforts in losing weight. This process can prompt the body to store fat, particularly in the abdominal area, since blood glucose links to insulin (the fat-storage hormone.)

7 – Mineral imbalance or heavy metal toxicity

While minerals cannot be broken down and turned into energy like macronutrients (carbs, fats, and proteins), they are cofactors for hundreds of enzymes involved in metabolism. Since metabolism controls how many calories a person burns, mineral deficiencies can lead to weight gain.

Heavy metal toxicity is all too common in the modern world due to factors such as our contaminated water supply. These compounds are fat soluble, so the body can hold onto excess weight to prevent them from entering the bloodstream. HTMA, or Hair Trace Mineral Analysis, testing is a great way to assess mineral and heavy metal status. Always work with a practitioner with issues like these, as detoxing from heavy metals can be very dangerous.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON HIDDEN REASONS WHY YOU AREN’T LOSING WEIGHT

Not making progress on your weight loss goals can be extremely disheartening. Plateaus make many people push harder in the gym and cut their calories even more to see results. Not only is this approach often unsuccessful, but it also fails to address the reason why weight loss isn’t occurring.

Often, difficulty losing weight is a symptom of something internal. The root cause could be hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, gut dysbiosis, or another invisible illness. However, dieting harder will only mount additional unwanted stress on the body. Realizing the interconnectedness of every internal system is crucial for healing and achieving optimal health. And, of course, for losing weight.

18 Foods That Can Help Heal Hemorrhoids

September 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

The condition called hemorrhoids, also known as piles, is incredibly unpleasant. This condition presents with swollen veins on or near one’s rectum or anus. While unpleasant, there are several natural ways to treat this condition. Plus, foods make an enormous impact in helping to prevent flare-ups and calm then once they occur.

Foods to Treat Hemorrhoids

This condition occurs when the veins around the rectum or anus become swollen as a result of inflammation and irritation, resulting in an embarrassingly unpleasant appearance and sensation.

If you are dealing with hemorrhoids, consider the following foods to start feeling better.

1. Aloe Vera

If you’re looking for an all-natural treatment for this condition, consider aloe vera. Thanks to this plant’s anti-inflammatory properties, it is an excellent way to soothe any discomfort and cool inflamed areas.

Additionally, aloe vera can help to keep the swelling down and improve the appearance of your skin at this time.

In addition to easing inflammation, aloe vera helps to eliminate bacteria, making it easier to avoid an infection–something quite common with this condition.

2. Turmeric

Another easy remedy for this condition is the spice turmeric.

This spice contains curcumin, which has significant antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. These help to prevent one from developing infections as a result of piles.

Additionally, consuming this spice regularly will help to reduce inflammation, and ease the discomfort, allowing you to feel relief from this condition.

Many people consume turmeric by adding it to their meals or using it in their juices or shakes. When adding turmeric to your daily lifestyle to benefit from its properties, you can also consider creating a paste out of the spice to help heal the skin. Use glycerine and turmeric to make a paste to apply to any affected areas.

3. Tea Bags

Drinking tea can be a powerful way to center yourself and promote health, but it also has a different use: treating piles.

The caffeine in caffeinated tea is a vasoconstrictor. This means that this active ingredient will cause your blood vessels to shrink, making it a great treatment for piles.

Tea bags are effective at treating painful skin conditions like spots, ulcers, rashes, and piles. The gentle cooling effect of these tea bags helps to nourish affected areas.

Theanine and tannins found in natural teas help to draw blood out in the skin and help to soothe the area.

4. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus as an essential oil is another natural treatment for piles. Like other essential oils, eucalyptus has healing, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, relaxing, and nutritious properties

These benefits all help to reduce the effects of piles and help you feel and look better.

Just as this essential oil works to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, it also is known for its numbing and cooling effect. Similar to the effect of mint or menthol, eucalyptus essential oil is a powerful agent in treating pain.

5. Prunes

Though prunes won’t work in quite the same way over-the-counter medication will when treating this condition, it is helpful in treating piles.

As an excellent source of fiber and sorbitol, prunes help to make stool softer so that it’s easier to pass. Sorbitol especially helps to draw more water in, which is an effective way to soften feces by diluting it.

Since harder feces tends to strain the veins around the rectum and anus, working to soften one’s stool will help to ease the effects of this condition.

6. Water

Though one may not consider water to be a food, it is an important way for anyone trying to combat the effects of piles.

Staying hydrated is essential to guaranteeing healthy bowel movements. Drinking healthy levels of water will help keep one’s stool soft, which will allow it to pass through the body more easily.

Additionally, staying properly hydrated is one of the most important ways to keep your immune system functioning as it should.

7. Olive Oil

Olive oil is often considered a healthy fat for good reason.

With its many benefits, olive oil is also a great food to include in one’s diet when treating piles. This anti-inflammatory and antioxidant is capable of shrinking blood vessels and improving their elasticity as a result of its phenolic, squalene, and oleic acid contents.

Not sure how to use olive oil to benefit from it as a treatment for piles? Take this oil orally or apply it to the affected area directly.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

When it comes to finding the best foods to treat piles, don’t rule out apple cider vinegar.

ACV is another remedy that can be used both internally and externally. With astringent and anti-inflammatory benefits, using ACV to treat piles will help one shrink hemorrhoids quickly.

9. Lemon Juice

Antioxidants that contain a significant amount of acid have proven to be an effective way to treat piles quickly. Lemon juice contains vitamin C and antioxidants that will boost one’s immune system and help eliminate this condition.

If you’re going to apply lemon juice as a treatment, keep in mind that it can sting. While you may be uncomfortable during the process, you’ll see just how effective this juice is at reducing the effects of this condition.

10. Coconut Oil

A source of fatty acids and saturated oil, coconut oil is a popular health food that is also incredible as a treatment for piles.

Use coconut oil to nourish and moisturize affected areas of the body. Additionally, when taken orally, coconut oil will help to soften stool, making it easier to pass, which will help you avoid exacerbating this condition in the first place.

When using coconut oil as a treatment for piles, melt about 2 – 3 teaspoons of the oil. Soak the affected area with the oils using cotton pads. This treatment can be performed up to 5 times a day ideally.

11. Flax Seeds

Flax seeds are another important addition to the piles-free diet as they help to promote painless defecation.

The seeds help to lubricate the intestines and can work to prevent rectal pain when one defecates while experiencing this condition.

This seed oil is also a helpful way to curb constipation and treat inflammation inside the anus and in the large intestine’s lining. As an excellent source of fiber, flax seeds are also an effective way to treat constipation that would otherwise worsen this condition.

12. Whole Grains

Whole grains and similar foods like starchy vegetables, wheat bran, oats, cereal, and rice bran all are high in fiber.

By making whole grains a regular part of your diet, you’ll be able to increase your stool frequency and avoid constipation. These fibers are an important way to avoid the effects of piles and improve feces quality.

13. Beets

If beets aren’t already part of your diet, start adding them now.

These vegetables are an effective way to treat hemorrhoids by helping to increase one’s fiber intake and to curb constipation.

In addition to being high in dietary fiber, foods like beets also contain vitamin C. This vitamin C content helps to prevent vessels from bleeding as scientists have discovered that vitamin C is helpful in restricting the blood flow in vessels.

Start eating beets regularly by adding them in salads and vegetable sides.

14. Oats

Oats is another food that is often overlooked when it comes to treating piles.

High in nutrients, oats should be eaten daily to avoid hard stools and constipation. Additionally, oats also contain soluble fiber that will help to make stools a bit bulkier, which allows them to pass more easily and will help you avoid the issue of painful defecation.

15. Dried and Fresh Fruits

Both fresh fruits and dried fruits are capable of treating the painful effects of piles.

The high soluble fiber in fruits makes it easier to pass stools as it makes one feel fuller faster which results in quickening the time required for the body to pass stools.

Dried fruits like dates, raisins, and apricots contain higher levels of fiber content than most regular fruits. By adding these fruits to your diet, you’ll be able to avoid constipation and piles.

16. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is an often overlooked natural root that will help you fight the effects of piles. This root helps to keep the body hydrated, soften stools, and relieve bowel movements.

When used as a way to relieve piles, this root will reduce related pain as it also relieves any strain from bowel movements.

17. Papaya

The active enzyme in foods like papaya is papain and it is the key component responsible for this fruit’s wonderful benefits.

Papaya is one fruit that is known for its effectiveness in treating piles. Research shows that symptoms like bloating and constipation are easily treated with this fruit.

Not sure how to use this fruit as a treatment? Consider eating green papaya, as it has more papain. Dietary experts recommend using green papaya in salads and similar vegetable dishes.

18. Horse Chestnut

The horse chestnut tree contains the chemical aescin, which is an effective treatment for conditions like piles.

As it has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, horse chestnut works to treat venous issues caused by piles or similar conditions.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Foods to Treat Hemorrhoids

This condition is undoubtedly an uncomfortable one. When treating the likes of piles, it’s important to create a diet that is focused on treating inflammation, softening stool, and alleviating similar symptoms of this condition.

If you’re fighting off hemorrhoid side effects, keep this guide in mind. While you may need additional medication to treat this condition, the above 18 foods are excellent natural ways to treat this issue.

10 Things You Need to Know if You Love a Scorpio

September 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Depending on who you ask, falling in love can be one of the greatest and most challenging gifts one goes through in life. What attracts you to and makes you fall for someone can arise from multiple reasons, not all of them sensible. Case in point, loving a Scorpio.

The Scorpio is the eighth sign of the zodiac from October 23-November 22. While it can be considered an infamous or “darker sign” out of all twelve of the zodiac signs, it is one the most misunderstood signs out there. It is one of the four powerhouses. A person born of this sign is known for having a cruel stringer. And they also have an ability to use it in a cold-hearted fashion in multiple ways. But, what few seem to see at first is they also have an enormous capacity for protectiveness. Thus, they will also sting when something threatens their loved ones.

Loving a person of this sign is not easy because they hide multiple and complex layers from the world. This is not to be nasty or degrading to anyone. But it is because nearly every Scorpio is protective of their hearts and who they let in. Scorpios are not ones who love lightly or trust easily. Therefore, they are more likely to have small circles of friends then people of other signs are.

If you have developed a feeling for or are falling for a Scorpio man or woman, here are 10 things you should know to make things more understandable. If anything, this list will prepare you for the interesting and fulling life you two will lead together.

10 Things You Need to Know When You Love a Scorpio

1) They are passionate

Passion, for a person of this sign, is written into their DNA from birth. Be it having a passion about doing a favorite sport that most would give up on, turning a hobby into a successful small business that makes millions, or fighting for a political or environmental cause they believe in, this gets them through the day. Their passion is what they live off.

Living with and loving a Scorpio will be filled with adventure and keep you on your toes. Never a dull moment with this sign so be prepared. Make sure you can keep up for you will never be bored.

2) Loyalty is everything!

Loyalty to Scorpios is what fish is to water and breathing is to a human. To be loyal to someone is extremely important to them. To break their loyalty to a cause, a friend or a family member means that that person or situation has crossed a line or done something unforgivable in the eyes of someone with this sun sign.

No matter the reasons given by the “guilty” party as to why they did what they did, they are still guilty of being in the wrong. People of this sign do not forgive easily and never forget. If in the rare occurrence that you are lucky enough to be forgiven do not ever expect to be as close as you were before. You will always be kept at arm’s length.

3) Insecurities get to them

Due to their inability to trust people right off the back, it allows insecurities to creep to the surface. To a Scorpio it is better to guard their hearts then it is to try a relationship that could end in heartbreak just for the fun of it. They will take their time to get to know a person before any serious dating begins.Do not take any offense to this, they are just wanting to protect themselves from any possible avoidable and unnecessary heartbreak. If anything, take this as a compliment. For most of the people born under this sign, they take loyalty and faithfulness seriously.

4) Sexuality is the same as an emotion

Scorpios are passionate and sensual beings. Sex, flirting and seducing are the native language of this sign. They love sex and all the good feelings that come along with it. They are the best in bed out of all the zodiac signs and they take it very seriously.One reason for this could be to do if there are any communication difficulties between a couple.

If they are having problems communicating with their partner clearly, sex can translate what they are struggling to say. On the other hand, a night of passion can communicate and translate what the English language sometimes cannot.

5) Mystery is in their blood

This zodiac sign is surrounded by mystery and for good reason. Scorpios are both interested in the mysteries of life and having mystery surround them themselves. They like to find out about people and to be able to understand what makes people tick.

Also, due to having their walls up to protect their hearts, many would view a Scorpio man or woman as a locked box that only needs to have the right key to open it up to see all the beauty inside it. If this is you, then be prepared to wait for the box to open. For it will take some time so don’t be afraid to work at it either.

6) They take their independence seriously

While this sign is well known for being dominant and at times or sometimes overbearing, they do not like it when it is done in return. While this may be hypocritical, they greatly value their independence and not having to rely on other people to get what they want. Scorpios are more about helping others and not so much about asking for the help they need themselves.

They do not like to be controlled and to be told what they can or cannot do with their lives. If you want to be with him or her, remember to give him/her the space he/she needs and let them be who they are. You will have a happier relationship if you do.

7) Protective is an understatement

Not only are Scorpios fiercely loyal to their friends and family, but they are also fiercely protective of their loved ones. Once you are in their inner circle you are there for life in their eyes. This also means you being under their protection weather you feel like you need it or not.

You’ll need to tell them in a nice way that you can stand up on your own two feet. Indeed, they need not always be your sole protector.

8) They have a stinger–betrayers beware

Besides having their walls up and being overprotective of the people in their inner circle, Scorpios are notoriously unforgiving. Once they are or feel betrayed, they push out their stinger and confront the person who double-crossed them. Forgiveness is something foreign that Scorpios are rarely willing to learn nor master. Be warned!

9) They like a challenge

One thing this sign cannot stand besides being lied to, cheated on and having a betrayal happen, is not having something that challenges them personally. Be it in their personal life, their career or family life- boring and just settling is not a concept that this zodiac sign accepts. They must push to do and to be the best that not only they can be. However, they must also be the best at what they do. It is best to let them know in a gentle way that they have not failed when they feel like they have. They can always try again. Sometimes they just need someone to add fuel to the fire that is already starting inside them.

10) Just listen to them

Many Scorpios are not ones for beating around the bush. They speak their mind and will be blunt about it often. However, they can be tactful as to when to drop some bad or big news if they choose to be, so don’t think that all Scorpios are without class. When it comes to relationships, they take a considerable amount of time thinking about how they will tell the person they care for. So, don’t worry. For a Scorpio, it is better to take the time to come up with the right words to convey what they actually and truly mean then it is to do it on the whim and possibly mess up on explaining what they mean. At least it is when it comes to the subject of deep feelings.

Be it to a close friend, a lover or a family member, Scorpios speak their mind on a situation to help that person out. It is not because they adore hearing their voices echoing off the surrounding walls. They get an equal amount of pleasure of a “told you so” situation happening in front of their eyes as they do with the person following their advice.

Final Considerations When You Fall in Love with a Scorpio

There are both the good and the bad of every sign and this sign is not different. While Scorpios are headstrong and dominating, they do have a passionate nature and feel emotions deeply. Granted you will have to follow the rules to get the keys to unlock the mystery of your lover.

10 Ketogenic Diet Recipes with Kale

September 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

A ketogenic diet is one that requires you to consume an extremely low amount of carbohydrates in order for you to use your body’s fat as the main source of energy. When done properly, this diet is highly effective in burning body fat and helping you to lose weight. Kale (or greens) is a great ingredient for this diet, and there are many ketogenic diet recipes with this vegetable that are delicious, filling, and satisfying.

The ketogenic diet is well-known, but not well-understood. This is because most ketogenic newbies are heading to the internet to research a keto diet, and there is so much information that it is overwhelming. When this happens, those who were originally interested begin the diet with a confusion explanation of what the diet really is, and others just give up entirely and don’t follow through with the diet.

Understanding a keto diet doesn’t have to be so confusing or overwhelming, however. Before getting into keto diet recipes with greens, you’re going to first read a quick run-down of what a ketogenic diet is (and what the rules are) so that you can be sure to understand enough to do the diet the right way. The things you must know are as follows:

You should not have more than 25 grams of carbs each day.
The majority of your calories should come from a fat source.
Protein should make up 15% – 25% of your calories.
Drink lots of water!
Make sure you’re getting enough of all nutrients, and supplement when necessary.
Cheating won’t get you anywhere. It’ll actually undo all the hard work you already accomplished.
Weigh yourself the first day, then 3 weeks later. Don’t step on a scale in-between.
Plan your meals.

The Benefits of Kale

The benefits of this vegetable in a ketogenic diet are plentiful, making it a popular ingredient for those who are doing a keto diet. The benefits of the vegetable in this diet are:

It is packed full of nutrients.

A single cup contains huge amounts (more than your required amount! of Vitamins A, K, and C. It also contains Vitamin B6, Manganese, Calcium, Copper, Potassium, Magnesium, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Iron, and Phosphorus.

It’s low in calories and carbs.
This vegetable is high in antioxidants, including ones that help with eye health and fight cancer.
It can lower your cholesterol.
It contains protein and fiber.

Ketogenic Diet Recipes with Kale

1. Keto Mexican Frittatas

For this recipe, you will need 1/2 pound of chorizo, 7 ounces of greens, 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, 1 yellow onion (diced), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 cup cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and pepper, and 12 eggs. You could also add avocado, tomatoes, peppers, or sour cream to top it off after it’s been served.

Begin by greasing a large casserole dish with the avocado oil. Next, you will wash the greens, removed the stems, and tear the leaves into small pieces. Then, in a frying pan, sautee the onion for around 5 minutes before adding the garlic and cooking for 1 more minute.

Finally, you will crumble the chorizo into the pan and cook it all together for 5 minutes before adding the vegetable and stirring it all together. Once it is combined, cover the pan with a lid and cook for 10 to 15 minutes over medium-low heat.

While you’re waiting, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You will then crack the eggs into a large bowl, add salt and pepper, and beat the eggs until they’re all combined.

When the chorizo mixture is finished, pour it into the casserole dish and spread it evenly before pouring the eggs over top. Add only half of the cheese, stir it all together, and then top with the remaining cheese before putting it into the oven for 15 minutes.

2. Keto Crust-less Cheddar Quiche

For this recipe, you will need 3 tablespoons avocado oil, 1 small diced onion, 1 diced sweet pepper, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 cups torn greens, 2 cups of cheddar cheese, 10 eggs, 1/4 cup cream, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and pepper.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9×9 baking dish or a pie pan with avocado oil. Add more avocado oil to a pan and sautee the onion for about 5 minutes before adding the peppers and garlic for another 3 minutes. Add the greens to the pan and stir.

Next, pour the vegetable mixture into the pan and spread it evenly, then sprinkle the cheese over top. Once that is ready, use a small bowl to mix the eggs, cream, and seasonings together and pour that over top of the vegetables and cheese. Bake the dish for 35 to 40 minutes.

3. Low Carb Sausage Soup

The ingredients needed for this recipe include 1 pound ground Italian sausage, 6 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup cream or milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt and red pepper flakes, 2 small bags of frozen cauliflower, and 4 cups of leafy greens.

To make this in an instant pot, you will begin by sauteeing the sausage on the sautee setting and draining the grease when it’s finished. Put all remaining ingredients in the instant pot with the sausage, put the lid on it, set the instant pot to pressure cook, and cook for 5 minutes. Allow the instant pot to vent for around 10 minutes before serving.

4. Salad With Lemon Dressing

For the salad portion, you will need 2 full bunches of washed greens, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1/2 cup each of pistachios (chopped), raisins, and parmesan cheese. The lemon dressing requires 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 1 tablespoon honey, salt and pepper to taste, and 1/4 cup each of apple cider vinegar and olive oil.

In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients before combining all of the dressing ingredients in a mason jar. Put the lid on the jar, shake it up, and let it sit until it all mixes together. Pour the dressing over the salad before tossing and serving.

5. Keto Coleslaw

For this recipe, combine 2 and 1/4 cups of coleslaw mix with 1 cup of kale, 1/4 cup red cabbage (chopped), 1/2 tablespoon salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar alcohol. Once combined, allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes before rinsing it really well with cold water.

While the vegetable mixture sits, you will be making the dressing by combining 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon each of sugar alcohol and apple cider vinegar, 1/4 tablespoon of dried parsley, and pepper to taste. Once the dressing is made and the vegetables have been rinsed, combine all of it together.

6. Chips

Remove the stem from the leaves of one bunch of greens, and then tear the leaves into small pieces before coating them lightly with olive oil. You’ll then sprinkle them with salt and put them in an air fryer set at 370 degrees for about 7 minutes.

7. Keto Beef Skillet

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot and saute 1/2 cup each of red onion and red bell pepper (both diced), 2 tablespoons diced tomatoes, and 1 minced garlic clove for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 pound of ground beef, 1.5 teaspoons each of salt, oregano and cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and cook until browned. Wash and chop 2 bunches of greens and, leaving them wet, add them to the pot with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

Cover the pot, lower the temperature to medium-low, and cook until the greens begin to wilt. Then, remove the cover, raise the temperature back to medium, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid is evaporated. Sprinkle with cheese, cover, and turn the heat off. Wait 2 minutes before serving.

8. Sauteed Kale

Slice 2 large shallots into rings and saute them in 3 tablespoons of coconut oil. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes and cook for one minute, stirring continuously. Wash and chop 1 full bunch of greens, 1/2 cup vegetable stock, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.

Cover and cook for 5 minutes, mixing once or twice. Uncover and cook until the broth has evaporated.

9. Quick Creamy Kale

Put 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and add 1 pound of chopped greens. Allow this to cook while you mix together 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and lemon juice, 1 tablespoon nut butter, 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt, and 2 tablespoons of water. Pour the mixture over top the greens and stir together before cooking for 1 minute.

10. Ground Beef Casserole

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet and add 2 pounds ground beef, cooking on medium-high until brown. After lowering the temperature to medium, add 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and oregano, and 2 teaspoons of garlic and onion powders.

Pour in 3 cups of marinara sauce, mix together and add 3 cups of greens in small amounts. Immediately turn the heat off and add 1/2 cup cheese. Pour all of it into the baking dish, top with 1/2 cup of cheese, and bake for about 10-15 minutes.

Final Thoughts on Ketogenic Diet Recipes with Kale

In a ketogenic diet, kale is like a superfood packed full of nutrients and other benefits. It also makes a low-carb meal delicious and satisfying. In a diet that requires strict rule-following, you’ll always know that this leafy green vegetable is a safe option.

You can make many different types of low-carb recipes using this vegetable, and the variety is endless. From snacks to breakfast foods to filling dinners, there are options for everything.

10 Behaviors That Reveal A Child May Be Autistic

September 8, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Understanding what is happening to your child may be a little tricky when they show behaviors you don’t fully comprehend. Unfortunately, if the problem is autism, an explanation of those behaviors may also be confusing. Learning more about the disorder (aka the autism spectrum) or understanding the symptoms of it may enable your child to get a diagnosis and professional help for the autistic child sooner.

Statistics reveal that the frequency of autism cases is on the rise. According to Autismspeaks.org, 1 in every 59 children will be born with the disorder. This is twice as many as were born in 2004. Boys are four times more likely to have it than girls, with a ratio of 1 in 37 boys and 1 in 151 girls. Autism occurs among all racial and socioeconomic groups.

Although genetics is believed to be the cause of autism, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is now studying possible environmental causes to determine its impact on the child in the womb. Several environmental factors may play a part in the development of the spectrum. The mother’s health is known to affect the health and development of the fetus.

Diagnosing Autism

Autism is not difficult to diagnose. Although there is no medical test for it, children as young as two can accurately get a correct diagnosis. A common factor is that a little more than half of the children with the disorder will have a low IQ, but about 44 percent of them will be average or even above average – which is greater than 85.

Getting a correct diagnosis will involve a team of specialists. Brain development is also noticeably different in terms of structures and connections, and it can be observed in infants as young as six months. Symptoms often arise before a child is two years old. However, most doctors won’t issue a diagnosis until after a child is four years old.

The Range of Autism

Although there are some core symptoms in autism spectrum disorders, those symptoms may not be revealed in the same way in two children. Their abilities will vary, and so will their behavior.

10 Autistic Behaviors to Watch for

1. Impaired Social Interaction

Children with autism cannot interact with other children or even with people in general. It is the key symptom of the autism spectrum. One of the first things that may be noticed is that they will not respond when their name is called, and they will avoid eye contact. They do not understand changes in the tone of another person’s voice or the meaning of facial cues. This is partly caused by the fact that they never look at other peoples’ faces to catch those facial cues, says the National Human Genome Research Institute.

2. Limited Speech Capabilities

Spoken language is an area in which a child with autism will likely be delayed. They have difficulty with communication when they do start talking and will often be awkward in their responses. In some cases, they may have a vast vocabulary, but may not answer a question with an expected answer – and it may not even be related at all to the topic. The National Institutes of Health say that an average child should be babbling by the time they reach their first year. They should also be speaking words before that time, but if they are not using any words by 16 months or two-word phrases by their second year, you need to seek an expert for diagnosis.

They may also repeat phrases, or speak in a monotone voice like a robot or have a sing-song voice. It is also possible that after they learn some new language and communication skills that these become lost later.

3. Reduced Ability to Make Friends

Because of their limited ability to carry on a conversation or have proper social interaction, they have very little ability to make friends among their peers. Their often odd behavior will tend to push other children away, and they are usually not bothered by it (until they are mocked or bullied). They are quite happy playing alone. They also have a hard time interacting with teachers in the classroom.

One study conducted by PLOS discovered that when autistic children are raised with animals that their social skills improve. The animals helped the children even to develop the ability to smile and laugh, have some facial expressions, as well as decreasing behaviors that are less acceptable. In the study, it was also observed that the children even expressed care for the animals, which included cuddling, hugging, comforting, and nuzzling. Having an animal in public was also found to create social interactions.

4. Sensory Sensitivity

Children with autism may tend to overreact or underreact to various stimuli of their senses. While they may completely ignore some sounds, such as people speaking to them, other sounds may obviously disturb them. This can lead to them covering their ears or making various noises to attempt to drown out the sound. Their sense of touch may also be extra sensitive, causing them to pull away at the touch of a particular type of fabric or a pat on the back. This same effect may also occur when other types of sudden or unusual sensory input are received. This can include smells, lights, textures, tastes, and even colors.

5. Unusual Body Movements

An autistic child will have abnormal body movements that will be readily noticeable. They repeat the motion over and over. These can involve the flapping of their hands, spinning around, and rocking. They will also tend to be continually moving.

6. Struggle to Understand or Express Emotions

Some children who are autistic may have a hard time understanding how another child or person feels. They also have difficulty being able to express their feelings. Research conducted by Scientific American says that this idea is wrong – they can show empathy. Where this idea comes from is that some children with autism (about 50 percent) have another disorder called alexithymia, and this disorder causes a lack of feelings.

7. Repeats Words or Phrases

Some children with this disorder fixate on a word or phrase and repeat it over and over again. This is called echolalia. This can be a word or phrase they heard from others, from adults, or even from a TV program. Their use of the word or phrase does not indicate that they know its meaning.

8. Detail Oriented

Autistic children are often very detail-oriented. They will take toys and other objects and carefully line them up. This may be more important to them than playing with the toy, and it will be to the point of being excessive.

9. Focused on Parts of Objects

They will also become focused on specific objects or parts of objects, such as a moving part on a toy. Their focus will be abnormal and intense, and it may cause them to preclude playing with other children. It may also extend to various topics.

10. Need a Routine to Survive

People that have autism need to have a regular daily routine. This provides them with a degree of security. If you break their regular routine, even in simple matters, they often become angry, distressed, and frustrated. It will often leave them unable to function when facing interruptions in a regularly scheduled routine. Their desired routine may even extend to meals when they want the same foods day after day.

Other Behaviors

Autistic children may also be self-injurious. The injuries may be rather minor, such as banging their head against a wall or may actually cause physical harm, such as cutting. In one study that used 149 people with autism aged 4 to 39, it was discovered that 50 percent of the people in the study had used some sort of self-injury within the past 30 days, which included, self-biting, self-hitting, and self-scratching.

May Have Epilepsy

Seizures may also be present with autism, even if it is not there at the start. Twenty-five percent of children with autism will develop seizures.

Girls May Have Different Symptoms

In an article by Scientific American, researchers have discovered that many girls with autism spectrum have likely been overlooked. This is because the original test models were all boys. Doctors now believe that girls have some different symptoms. Unfortunately, it still needs to be determined on how to diagnose a girl with them. Girls know how to mask some of their symptoms better.

In other situations, girls tend to display different interests. Boys, for example, may not care at all whether they have any kind of social interaction. They often are happily playing by themselves in their little world. Girls, however, express a stronger interest in friendships and acceptance. This can lead them to want to learn how to be socially acceptable, and they may work harder at it, causing parents and others not to notice.

Final Thoughts: Medical Treatment of Autistic People

Treatment for autism can include a wide range of methods, depending on the severity and age of the individual. Children with autism can often become more controlling of their symptoms, and they may become less noticeable. At present, there is no cure for it, and current medicines do not treat the primary symptoms. Doctors may order medications to help with some of the more severe symptoms. Those can treat depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Treatments can make a difference in the lives of people who are autistic – children and adults. By seeking an accurate diagnosis when unusual behavior is first noticed, it can improve the quality of their lives, as well as that of their parents and others who interact with them.

Weight Watchers: An Objective Look At The Weight Loss Program

September 8, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Few companies worldwide are more recognizable than Weight Watchers for diet success. Over 40 years of experience in helping people live healthier lives and reach their weight loss goals testifies to their excellence.

Other companies might be considered too difficult or restrictive. However, weight-watchers gives you the freedom to choose food combinations that appeal to you. Thus, the flexibility makes it less likely that you will succumb to unhealthy snacking during the day.

A balanced approach to weight loss

Weight Watchers promotes a balanced approach to weight loss with a healthy nutrition plan and plenty of choices that are suitable for the pickiest eater. There are no restrictive meals or pre-packaged, processed foods. In fact, the goal of the program is to empower you to make good choices as part of creating a new and healthier lifestyle.

Food and points

Weight Watchers assigns every food you can imagine a points value. The plan determines points using scientific algorithms that calculate how long it takes for a body to work off the calories in each food. If you are able to stick within your daily points limit, you can generally choose the foods you enjoy and like to eat. For most, it does not feel overly restrictive.

Getting started with Weight Watchers

When you are first starting out on the program, the online resources allow you to gain access to several helpful tools that make healthy lifestyle creation much easier. The website alone has a database of over 40,000 foods that make it simple to track your food choices and keep track of daily points. In addition to food calculations, you’ll find hundreds of recipes, a meal planner, and tips for eating out and on the go. With all of the resources at your fingertips, there are no more excuses for weight loss failure.

Exercise while on the plan

Weight Watchers encourages exercise while on the food plan. Points values are even assigned to activities like walking, running, swimming, and cardio. Points are deducted from your daily allotment of food, which allows you to splurge every now and then on a special treat.

They encourage adding healthier food choices

The system encourages the consumption of fresh, whole, unprocessed foods, fruits, vegetables, and quality proteins, although no foods are considered completely off limits. A points value of zero is assigned to over 200 healthy foods, making snack time a treat when choosing from this extensive list. Suggested foods include:

Lean proteins such as skinless chicken, eggs, tofu, shellfish, and non-fat yogurt
Vegetables and fruits such as broccoli, asparagus, greens, cauliflower, apples, and peppers
Fresh, frozen, and unsweetened canned fruit
Healthy carbs like sweet potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, beans, and whole grains products
Healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and nuts

Restricted foods

While most foods have a points value, the consumption of processed and unhealthy foods is advised against. The suggestion of program developers is to consume high amounts of quality proteins and fewer starchy and sugary foods. Foods that are discouraged are:

Sugary drinks, alcohol, beverages with empty calories
Potato chips, French fries, fried foods
Processed meats
Candy
Cakes, cookies, and other sweets

The occasional treat won’t derail your progress, but looking long term, you’ll want to develop healthier habits that you can stick with in the future to maintain lasting results.

No time to track points? Try the frozen line

If you are short on time and need someone else to do the pointwork for you, Weight Watchers has a line of frozen prepared meals products that can be found at most grocery stores. Featuring everything from breakfast items to international cuisine to desserts, they have done everything possible to make maintaining and losing weight easy, simple, and delicious.

Weight tracking made easy

The Weight Watchers online app offers comprehensive tracking of food intake and activity levels, giving you a complete view of your success step by step. A mobile app that works across many operating systems gives you a complete look at your progress, no matter where you are. You are able to make informed decisions while on the go and even when dining out, making weight loss achievable by almost anyone.

Support and accountability systems

Taking your weight loss even further is easy with a number of online forums and even meet up groups for those who need a little extra accountability. Simply input your zip code into the “meetings finder” option and see a list of available meeting dates and times in your area.

Having a personal coach for other programs seems a little unattainable, but with weight-watchers online plus, you can be assigned a personal accountability coach to walk you through your customized program step by step. A unique aspect of this program is the fact that each accountability coach has personally enrolled in the program at one point with the goal of losing weight and has succeeded. They use their personal experience and the enthusiasm of their goal achievement to help fuel your passion for pursuing your own health and fitness goals.

Access to customized coaching

Need extra help? Access a personal coach.

You and your coach design a fully customized program. Then, begin communicating via phone or email for the length of your program. If you are too busy to attend regular in-person meetings, your coach will provide you with education and inspirational material that can assist you with your weight loss journey. A customizable homepage on their app helps you reach achievable milestones and tracks progress.

Superior customer service

With a comprehensive FAQS page on their website and staff that are committed to answering questions via email and phone within 24 hours of receipt, it is easy to see why this plan is one of the best and most consistent for lasting weight loss results. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons that users have reported after using the system for a time:

Pros of Weight Watchers:

1. There is no “junk science” or “magic cure” that promises to fix your body unrealistically.

The plan uses real food and realistic goals for lasting results. That might be why it has been successful for over 40 years.

2. Social aspects of the program can help a person stay on track.

Weekly meetings and face to face time with your accountability coach ensure that you stay on track and meet your goals, one marker at a time. Lasting friendships developed during the program encourage mindful eating and exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle after goals have been reached. Thus, some people cite new friendships as additional benefits of joining.

3. The program focuses on flexibility rather than restriction.

Participants find an array of choices for food options and clear plans for weight loss. Thus, this plan works for the majority of people who don’t like restrictive options of other diets.

Cons of Weight-Watchers:

1. Lack of specific choices may not work for everyone.

People that are not good at balancing their food choices may not be able to make wise choices that lead to lasting weight loss. Some plan followers rely exclusively on the frozen menu options, which is not a plan for sustainable weight loss. It’s better for many to adopt a whole foods, plant-based lifestyle. That’s because you’ll have an easier time with meal planning in the long run.

2. Weight regain is a risk.

With any diet plan, the failure to adopt new lifestyles and make healthier choices will inevitably result in weight regain. And that can be frustrating and disheartening. Making small, sustainable choices that you can stick with will, over time, ensure that you walk the straight and narrow. Maintaining your new, slimmer self will stay with you only as a result of new habits.

3. Coaches, not nutritional professionals and doctors, facilitate the plan.

If what you want is solid medical and nutritional advice from qualified professionals, this plan may not be for you. All program coaches have gone through the program themselves and experienced a measure of success in the program. Indeed, they share their real-life experience with weight loss to help you reach your goals. Plus, they may fuel your passion for creating a healthier lifestyle. They also know how to plan protocols and tips for success that can help anyone stay on track. You must decide what level of accountability and assistance you need in reaching your goals.

Final Thoughts on Giving Weight Watchers a Try

The evidence is in the long-standing success of the program. And, with over 40 years of satisfied clients and lasting weight loss results, this program seems relatively easy to follow. The combination of food variety with technology, accountability and community connections help almost anyone to feel that they can reach their goals successfully.

If you are looking for lasting weight loss and better health, consider giving Weight Watchers a try. Here’s to your best health!

10 Things You Need to Know When You Love a Scorpio

1) They are passionate

2) Loyalty is everything!

3) Insecurities get to them

4) Sexuality is the same as an emotion

5) Mystery is in their blood

6) They take their independence seriously

7) Protective is an understatement

8) They have a stinger–betrayers beware

9) They like a challenge

10) Just listen to them

Final Considerations When You Fall in Love with a Scorpio

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