The Top 10 Health Scams You Need to Know About

Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

Should you really try a colon cleanse? Do cellulite creams actually work? Here are the top ten health scams — and what you need to know about each one.

We’ve all heard about this or that “magical” or “amazing” product that will help you lose weight, fight disease, or get you in shape faster. It seems like every couple of years (or more often) a product is introduced to the market that targets those people who want the easy way to fat loss or health.

The strange thing is, people actually buy this stuff! It’s too bad they don’t realize you can lose weight, be healthier, and feel better just by making a few changes to your diet.

Here are the top 10 health scams:

01. Toning Shoes

Ah yes, those illustrious shoes designed specifically to help tone and tighten your legs and glutes. The shoes have a convex sole and pods and/or mini balance balls at the bottom. This all works to make you work harder to balance and walk. Some manufacturers even claim they can help with back pain and poor posture.

Let’s think about this for a minute. How can a shoe that forces you to walk unnaturally be good for your posture and spine? It’s not likely.

In addition, there’s zero evidence that toning shoes actually do a thing to “tone” your muscles. You do that in a gym, by lifting weights…and we wouldn’t recommend you wear these shoes while doing so.

02. Hoodia

Here’s a great way to tell if the weight loss formula is a scam: it’s touted as being a to-this-day unknown trick of some unknown culture. Hoodia is one of these gimmicks. Further, to do any good, hoodia has to be eaten fresh, and you can’t get it fresh because it’s on the list of protected flora.

So don’t waste your money on packaged hoodia, and concentrate instead on what you put into your mouth if you want to lose weight safely and properly.

03. Cellulite Creams

Newsflash: a lot of people have cellulite. Even skinny people get it. And those creams that are marketed all over the place don’t really work.

The best way to reduce cellulite is to reduce your sugar intake. Sugar gets stored in the outer fat cells. Exercise regularly, and lose fat naturally. The less fat and more muscle you have, the less cellulite you will have.

04. Vitamin-Enhanced Waters

You can’t really put extra oxygen into water. There’s really nothing you can do to water to make it healthier aside from making sure it’s clean. And then you drink it.

Don’t waste your money on expensive, flavored, “vitamin-enhanced” water. And really, if it has all that stuff in it, is it still really water?

05. Colon Cleansers

Your colon is one amazing, delicate, and thriving ecosystem, part of the most important system in your body: the gut. What it doesn’t do is store fecal matter for years at a time. You don’t need to take any colon cleansing products (or enemas, or do colon hydrotherapy) to remove all of this imaginary buildup.

What you can do to help your colon is to eat lots of soluble and insoluble fiber by way of fruits and vegetables, eat some fermented foods, drink lots of water, and exercise. Let your colon do the rest.

06. Body Wraps

We’re sure you’ve seen the latest craze in fat loss: body wraps! Supposedly, you put these on for 12-24 hours and when you take them off, you’re drastically thinner. Well, sure. There might appear to be a huge difference, but you know what you’ve lost?

Water weight. Fluids have moved to other parts of the body, or have been lost through sweat. What you haven’t lost is fat, and you’ll be back to looking exactly as you were within a day or two. So don’t waste your time or money.

07: Fat and Carb Blocking Pills

It’s really unlikely that a pill can stop your body from absorbing the fat you eat and further, why would you want to do that? Fats are necessary for health! The issue is not that fat makes you fat; the issue is that eating too much fat makes you fat.

Eating too much in general will make you gain fat, so don’t demonize fat in and of itself. Not to mention, fat-blocking pills can cause diarrhea, gas, bloating, and anal leakage. What fun! They also prevent your body from absorbing vitamins.

As for carb-blocking pills, wouldn’t it be more effective, less expensive, and safer to just cut back on your carb consumption if you’re so concerned about it?

08. Refined Vegetable Oils

Canola oil, soybean oil, and margarine are not good for you. They will not help you lose weight, are not better for your heart than butter, tallow, or lard, and are actually more likely to cause more harm than good. Have you noticed that since we started eating margarine, people as a whole have gotten fatter and heart disease has gone up? It’s probably no coincidence.

Stick to health fats from animals; factory-extracted, rancid vegetable oils are not good for you. Instead, go for avocado oil, olive oil, nut oils (in moderation due to the Omega-6s), coconut oil, and butter, lard, and tallow.

09. Weight Loss Teas

The most common ingredient in these teas is caffeine, which is a stimulant. It makes your heart beat faster and gives you more energy, thus increasing the calories you burn when you are more active than normal. The only time these teas might be effective is if you used them to replace high-sugar sodas.

10. HCG

HCG is a fertility drug, and is commonly marketed as a weight loss miracle. Here’s the trick: you eat a super-low calorie diet (under 1000 calories a day) and have HCG injected into your body. In result, you’ll see dramatic weight loss results.

Well, of course you will! Any person who starves himself is going to see results, at least until his metabolism crashes and burns! Do yourself a favor and stay far, far away from this diet.

Watch this video – Health Scams — Be Smart, Be Aware, Be Careful Video

Written by PaleoHacks Team

Author Bio:

PaleoHacks is an online paleo diet community that promotes a healthy lifestyles through primal methods. PaleoHacks started as a way for people share recipes, ideas and general opinions about the Paleolithic lifestyle. Now, whether it be the paleo diet, physical fitness or overall wellness, PaleoHacks has evolved into an online resource for healthy living. check us out on Facebook.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

Diet and Depression – 5 Ways A Paleo Diet Can Help Depression

 

Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

When I began my clinical practice, I didn’t have a lot of experience with treating depression. However, as my client population grew I quickly realized just how many people were either suffering from depression currently, or had experienced a significant bout in the past.

In fact, the number of people diagnosed with depression increases by 20% every year. What can you do to fend off this debilitating mood disorder?

The causes of low mood and depression are multi-factorial, however the current research has highlighted some interesting areas that may be significantly impacting your mental health.

Let’s take a look at how several dietary factors impact depression and how a Paleo approach can help re-balance these areas of deficiency.

Balance Blood Sugars & Insulin

There is a growing connection between high blood sugars, insulin dysfunction and the increased incidence of depression. In Finland, a recent study found that young men with insulin resistance were three times more likely to suffer from severe depression.

Unfortunately, most people are not tested for insulin or blood sugar dysfunctions when they complain to their doctor about low mood or depression.

A study in Diabetes Care of over 4,000 people found that anti-depressant medications did not alter the association between depression and insulin.

Adopting a low-carb Paleo approach, on the other hand, can improve your insulin levels very quickly. If you are overweight or have elevated blood sugars, a high-protein, low-carb healthy diet will likely make you feel better physically and mentally.

Correct Low Vitamin D

The association between low serum Vitamin D concentrations and symptoms of depression has been very well established. Studies show an inverse relationship between vitamin D status and risk of depression.

If you live in a northern climate with true winters or train frequently you are more susceptible to low vitamin D levels. The Vitamin D Council recommends keeping levels between 100-150nmol/L (greater than 40ng/mL) for optimal health and athletic recovery.

It’s difficult to obtain adequate vitamin D from foods to meet these levels through the winter months, but a Paleo diet will give you the best chance.

To keep your vitamin D levels from plummeting, increase your intake with these 5 vitamin D rich foods:

• Cod Liver Oil – 1,400 IU per tbsp. (your grandma knew best!)
• Cold-Water Fatty Fish – trout (645 IU per 3 oz), salmon, or mackerel
• Mushrooms – Portobello (375 IU per mushroom) or Maitake
• Pork – 78 IU per 3 oz. serving
• Eggs – 44IU per egg

Restore Omega 6 and Omega 3 Balance

While most people know the benefits of omega-3 fats for cardiovascular health, many don’t know they are also critical for supporting positive mood and reducing the incidence of depression.

Researchers believe that both cardiovascular disease and depression share key physiological mechanisms, such as increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, dysfunction of the inner most lining of arteries and veins (endothelium), and increased levels of inflammatory marker homocysteine.

A Paleo diet is centered on grass-fed and wild game meats, which are naturally high in omega-3 (grass-fed beef has the same amount of healthy omega-3 fats as salmon!) A Paleo diet also naturally reduces omega-6 rich pro-inflammatory vegetable oils by steering you clear of processed foods and snacks.

To ensure you have the optimal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats, add more grass-fed and wild game meats, ocean fresh fish, and omega-3 rich nuts like walnuts and macadamia nuts (far and away the nut with the highest amount of omega-3s).

Cool Inflammation

The connection between inflammation and depression has been gathering a lot of momentum in the research community. A recent study found that when animals are given pro-inflammatory cytokines, they develop significant apathy, appetite loss, diminished desire to socialize, and display greater sensitivity to pain.5 These are all characteristics seen in humans with major depression.

It seems greater levels of systemic inflammation in the body are associated with increased risk of depression. But what drives this low-grade inflammation and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines?

The root cause is multi-factorial; inflammation can stem from a combination of weight gain, excessive sugar consumption, digestive problems, chronic infections, stress, a sedentary lifestyle, poor sleep, smoking and key nutrient deficiencies (vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3).

While this is an extensive list of contributing factors, you can start protecting yourself by increasing your intake of antioxidant rich foods. A Paleo diet, rich in vegetables and fruits, helps cool the fires of inflammation.

Be sure to include “all colors of the rainbow” on your plate to ensure a robust intake of antioxidants and help extinguish the low-grade inflammatory fires in the body caused by free radical molecules.

Boost Low Testosterone

Testosterone is not just important for your libido and building lean muscle, it’s also critical for bone health, cardiovascular health, and combatting depression. Today’s 24/7 society means most people are indeed “burning the candle at both ends” and the result is lower levels of testosterone.

This is classically seen in athletes training at high-intensity but can also result from long hours at the office, lack of sleep, and increased mental stress.

Recently, a study reviewed the medical records of almost 300 men over a two-year period that complained of low libido and had no diagnosis of depression. Over the two-year span, men with low testosterone were four times more likely to be diagnosed with clinical depression.

This is not just a problem for men. Mood changes, irritability, and depression are also common in women with low testosterone.

Adopting a Paleo diet can be highly effective for restoring normal testosterone levels. Increase your intake of healthy saturated fats – like butter, coconut oil, and animal fats – to provide your body the building blocks it needs for optimal testosterone.

 A Paleo diet is also a terrific source of zinc, an essential mineral that acts directly on the testes and ovaries to increase testosterone levels. Grain-based diets contain higher levels of phytates that bind minerals like zinc and reduce absorption.

Support testosterone levels by adding zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, lamb, crab, and dark chocolate.

If you suffer from low mood or depression, then talk to your doctor about some of these key nutrients that should be evaluated to support the best clinical outcome.

Poor blood sugar control, low vitamin D, and insufficient omega-3 intake can all contribute to increased levels of inflammation that are associated with increased risk of depression. Hormonal factors like low testosterone can also play a large role so get your levels tested.

For some, medications can provide the necessary relief to implement these strategies but addressing the root cause is always best practice, so talk to your doctor or naturopath about the right personalized approach for you.

Watch this video –Diet and Depression : Here’s a Diet That Treats Depression

Written by Dr Marc Bubbs

Author Bio:

Dr. Marc Bubbs, ND is a Naturopathic Doctor, Strength Coach, Author, Speaker, and Blogger practicing in Toronto, Canada. He believes that diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors have the most profound impact on your overall health and performance.

Marc is the author of The Paleo Project – A 21st Guide to Looking Leaner, Getting Stronger, & Living Longer and currently serves as the Sports Nutrition Lead for Canadian Men’s Olympic Basketball Team.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

Can Sugar Alcohol Fight Depression and Boost Brain Health?

 

Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

Inositol is categorized as a B vitamin, and it plays a huge role in our bodies. It’s essential for stabilizing moods, lowering cholesterol and even boosting fertility.

Perhaps most importantly, inositol is vital for brain health. The way this nutrient interacts with neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin can affect your mood and cognition.

Inositol is found in foods like oranges, peaches, and pears. In this article, we’ll break down all the reasons you’ll want to reach for a piece of citrus fruit first thing in the morning!

What is Inositol?

Although it’s often known as vitamin B8, inositol is not a vitamin at all – it’s a sugar alcohol found in fruits, veggies, meat, and eggs. Our bodies use it for energy, and it’s present in most cells of your body.

One of the most important aspects of inositol is its ability to help cells – primarily in the brain – communicate. In this “second messenger” system, inositol works to help neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin relay messages properly.

Think of this system like plugging into a power outlet. The second messenger is necessary for action – like turning on the switch.

When you’re low on inositol, your brain chemicals can get switched up, jumbling up your hormones and causing mood disorders.

Health Benefits of Inositol

It’s not uncommon to be deficient in inositol. Here are the top reasons to make sure you get plenty of inositol in your diet every day.

1. Fights Depression

More than 16 million Americans suffer from depression, which is one of the primary causes of disability in the US. Depression is a complicated disorder which can be triggered by grief or other life events and stressors, but it can also be influenced by neurotransmitter levels and even gut health.

If you’re battling depression or other mood disorders, you might benefit from supplementing with inositol. Inositol can provide a balancing effect on chemicals in the brain that interact with dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters that are essential for a balanced mood and that are often low in depression.

2. Boosts Fertility

Women can improve their fertility by getting more inositol – especially those with a particular disease.

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common problem affecting up to 21 percent of women. The most common symptoms of PCOS include fertility problems, hyperandrogenism (an excess of male hormones), irregular periods, and multiple ovarian cysts. It may also involve skin problems and increased hair growth.

Supplementing with inositol can help restore ovulation cycles, improving fertility for all women, not just those with PCOS. In addition, inositol may help lower high blood pressure and high triglycerides – both common in those with PCOS.

3. Improves Insulin Sensitivity

Even if you don’t have diabetes, inositol can help improve insulin sensitivity.

Insulin is vital for keeping your blood sugar regular. It also allows your body to use glucose from carbs as energy, or to store it for future use.

People with diabetes or PCOS are at risk of becoming insulin resistant, making it extra important for those people to get enough inositol in their diets. Those lacking sufficient levels of inositol are most likely insulin resistant as well.

4. Helps Prevent Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a set of risk factors that, when combined, could lead to type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Some of these symptoms include high blood sugar, high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, and excess belly fat.

Supplementing with inositol might help by lowering triglyceride levels, total cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure that would otherwise lead to metabolic syndrome.

How to Take Inositol

You can get plenty of inositol from healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, and eggs. Be sure that your sources are grass-fed, pastured and organic whenever possible.

Specifically, top sources of inositol include:

• Bell peppers
• Tomatoes
• Asparagus
• Oranges
• Peaches
• Pears
• Cantaloupe
• Eggs
• Bananas
• Grass-fed beef

Tip: Try making a homemade inositol smoothie filled with oranges, peaches, pears, and bananas!

Note: If you’re suffering from one of the issues mentioned above, it might be best to supplement with inositol. Supplements are available both as encapsulated tablets and powders. To treat PCOS, take 4000 mg a day before breakfast. For depression, a 12-gram supplement per day is suggested.

Watch this video to learn how to fight depression and boost brain health –4 Key vitamins for depression and anxiety: are you missing these vital nutrients?

Bottom Line

While inositol is thought of as a vitamin, it’s actually a chemical compound used for energy. If you’re experiencing low mood, brain fog, infertility issues, PCOS or having issues with metabolic syndrome, check with your doctor to make sure you’re getting enough inositol in your system.

Written by Stephanie Lodge

Author Bio:

Steph is a writer, recipe developer, weightlifter and nutritional consultant with a passion for health and wellness. She is the founder of The Athlete’s Kitchen, a website dedicated to providing its audience with articles, recipes and the latest nutritional information on their favorite foods.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook