Almost eight Kettlebell Exercises For Fat Loss

Learn why everyone from professional athletes to your favorite Hollywood celebrities are using these kettlebell exercises in their workouts. They’re a phenomenal way to tone your body, build muscle and increase cardio all in the same workout.

Did you know workouts using kettlebells are the best for burning high amounts of calories? In this study undertaken by the American Council on Exercise it was shown that when kettlebells were used in high-intensity interval training participants burned 20.2 calories per minute. That’s the same amount of calories burned as running at a 6-minute mile pace or cross-country skiing up hill!

Kettlebell exercises are super sculptors – the weight of a kettlebell isn’t evenly distributed which forces your stabilizer muscles to go into overdrive. These exercises are targeted at working your arms, shoulders, back, butt and core. Melt fat, increase muscle and improve your endurance – your whole body is about to become more slim and toned!

1- Comfortable Grip Kettlebells For Total Body Workouts

First you’ll need to grab yourself a set of kettlebells. Kettlebells are always a great option for total body workouts. They take up minimal amounts of space and are just so effective and easy to use.

2- Around-the-Body Rotation

Start by holding the kettlebell in front of your torso with both hands. Keep a slight bend in your knees and have your feet at hip-width apart. Pass the kettlebell into your right hand and move it behind your body from your right hand into your left hand. Bring the kettlebell around your body back to the front completing a full circle – that’s one rep.

Do 12 of these reps then swap directions and do another 12 reps without stopping. Repeat for a total of 3 sets in each direction.


Tip: Try to keep the kettlebell at exactly the same height while performing this exercise.

3- Bent over row

Start by holding the kettlebell in your right hand and bend forward at the hips so that your torso is almost parallel to the ground. Let the kettlebell hang at arm’s length and grip the handle firmly. Keeping your arm tucked close to your side lift the kettlebell upwards with your elbow pointing towards the ceiling while keeping your torso in the same position. Lower the kettlebell back to arm’s length and you’ve completed one rep.

Do 12 reps on each side and repeat for a total of 3 sets on each side.

Tip: Try squeezing your upper back and pinching your shoulder blades together while doing this exercise.

3- Dead lift

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and the kettlebell placed between your legs. Keep your knees slightly bent with your butt downward but not in a deep squat position. Keep your head in-line with your spine and with a firm grip on the handles lift the kettlebell up, then lower it back to its starting position. While doing the movement activate your glutes and hamstrings and push down on your heels as you stand up.

Do 12 reps and use a reasonably heavy kettlebell.

Tip: Try flexing your laterals during the lift to maintain good core stability.

5- Figure 8’s

 

Start holding the kettlebell in your right hand and standing with your feet just over shoulder-width apart with your knees bent into a quarter squat position. Remember to keep your chest up and spine straight. Swing the kettlebell between your legs and behind your left leg while grabbing it with your left hand. Grab the kettlebell with your left hand and swing it back around between your legs and behind your right leg, while grabbing it with your right hand and back to the initial position completing a rep. You’ll want to do this for 12 reps.

Tip: Do the movement slowly and controlled while keeping your core braced.

6- Half get-up

Start lying flat on your back with your legs straight and the kettlebell by your right side. Grip the kettlebell in your right hand and press it up while keeping your arm straight so that it is above your shoulder. Bend your left and place your foot on the floor while placing your left hand behind you on the ground for stabilization. Reverse the steps back down to the starting position and that is one rep. Complete 6 reps using your left hand then repeat 6 reps using your right hand.

7- Swing

Start by gripping the kettlebell in both hands between your legs at a stance just over shoulder width apart. Keeping your core braced, drop your hips into a squat position while letting the kettlebell hang just behind your heels. Driving through your hips, stand straight up and swing the kettlebell upwards to shoulder height. As it comes back down, bend your legs and return to the squat position – that’s a complete rep and you’ll want to do 20 of them.

Tip: Look forward while keeping your arms straight and squeezing your glutes when performing the swing.

8- Front squat

Start by standing with your feet at shoulder width apart. Hold the kettlebell close to your chest with your elbows bent and it closed to your body. Bend at the knees and push your hip back until your knees are parallel to the ground. Remember to keep your chest up and back straight. Return to the standing position by pushing off from your heals and you’ve completed one rep. Do 20 front squats.

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The Secret To Get Rid Of GROSS Cellulite

Is stubborn cellulite stopping you from wearing your favorite bikini? Learn how to get rid of cellulite while losing weight. Excess fat is the main cause of cellulite and this in depth guide will help you on your way to reducing cellulite today.

Have you ever wondered why it’s so difficult to get rid of cellulite? You’ve probably tried everything but still find yourself suffering from the unattractive, lumpy and dimpled skin cellulite leaves us with. It appears on your legs, butt, arms, tummy and a number of other parts of your body, gross!

If you’ve spent time researching ways to rid yourself from the so-called “orange peel” don’t worry, you’re definitely not the only one!

Many women, if not all, are just like you. In fact, 80 to 90 percent of all women are affected by cellulite. They’ve spent a lot of time, hard earned money and energy hoping to discover a miracle to cure this frustrating skin problem. Sadly more often than not they’re left with short term results or none at all.
There are a wide number of products and procedures on the market that promise a cellulite-free body. Magical thermo-activated creams that promise to rid you of the lumps and dimples for a hefty fee. Invasive laser therapy or dangerous fat removal surgeries that offer short term results and come with a number of serious risks. No thanks!

None of these have lasting results because they don’t address the main cause of cellulite – excess fat. Before you take another step further though, I suggest that you to read through this article and discover the real facts about why people have cellulite. If you follow the advice in this article I guarantee you’ll reduce your cellulite and possibly even rid yourself of it all together.

Almost Everybody Has It

If you think you are the only one with the dimples and bulges, think again. An article published in Medical News Today showed that around 80 to 90 percent of women suffer from cellulite. Men also suffer from cellulite but to a lesser degree due to lower body fat levels.
Most commonly, these lumps and dimples are found protruding on the arms, the belly, the buttocks and the thighs. However for some people cellulite gathers around less visible areas like the neck and the chest.

So now you know you’re not the only one suffering from cellulite. Even men get it, sometimes just as bad as women but due to today’s image standards it’s not as big a deal to them.

Where Does Cellulite Come From?

Cellulite occurs due to a disproportion in the connective tissues of the body due to excess body fat. When fat deposits push through the tissue underneath your skin, cellulite is formed. This creates the “orange peel” look on the surface of the skin where it is present. So, a higher body fat means more cellulite, which is why people diagnosed with obesity contain more severe amounts of cellulite on their bodies.

However, being overweight or obese is not the only reason for cellulite. Everyone, to a certain degree, will have cellulite on their bodies. Regardless of weight, body size and shape, nobody is exempt! It’s just more visible and severe when we have a higher percentage of fat in our bodies.

Genetics – A Factor But Not An Excuse

So your mom has a slow metabolism. Your dad can’t seem to trim down regardless of how much exercise he does. Your grandfather suffers from hypertension, and your grandma has hormonal imbalances.

All these health problems and disorders are known to cause cellulite. It may just be bad luck that your genes make you more prone to being affected by cellulite.
So some of us get pretty looks from our ancestors, and some of us get cellulite, awesome! But don’t worry, even if you drew the short straw and are more prone to cellulite there is still a lot you can do to reduce its appearance, so keep reading.

Medical Conditions Can Trigger Cellulite

Think about your state of health right now and be honest. If you aren’t in the best of shape, you are more prone to having cellulite. Although cellulite is not a form of disease, it is far more common if you’re overweight.
However, there are a number of illnesses that causes you to gain weight, which in turn give you cellulite. Hypothyroidism, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Diabetes and Depression can all cause weight gain. Before you try other methods to remove the lumpy, dimpled skin be sure to check with your doctor that you aren’t suffering from one of these conditions.

Hormonal Imbalances Play A Role

Estrogen plays a big role in the changes and the shape of a woman’s body. It encourages the body to build up fat and store fat. Changes in the estrogen levels of the body can aggravate the growth of cellulite.
Cellulite is often worse during pregnancy and menopause, again because of weight gain. It’s also known that high levels of the insulin hormone can play a role in developing cellulite. Weight gain is the most common side effect of those who take insulin.

How Bad Is My Cellulite?

As mentioned earlier, there are a number of different levels of cellulite. So, ask yourself, “How severe is my cellulite?”
Like all of us, I’m sure you’ve spent a lot of time looking at the areas of your body affected by cellulite. There’s actually a severity scale that can be used to determine just how bad your cellulite is.
Level 1 –  To your eyes, you cannot see any visible signs of lumpy, dimpled skin at this level.
Level 2 – Cellulite is easily detected once the area is pinched. Your skin feels thick and tender around the area where you have it. Once you pinch your skin, you see lumps and dimples.
Level 3 – If you can see some lumps, bulges and dimples around your thighs, your buttocks and other parts of your body as you stand, then your cellulite level is already in level 3.
Level 4 – If you can see lumps, bulges and dimples in whatever position you are in, then you’ve reached the height of the cellulite levels.
Don’t worry, there’s work to be done!

Reduce Your Cellulite Today

Remember, they best and most effective way to reduce cellulite is to lose weight and overall body fat levels. By exercising and replacing the fat with added muscle you’ll only increase the amount of weight you lose and therefore reduce your cellulite even more.

Eat Well. Eat Healthy

Your choice of food is very beneficial to maintaining a healthy you. If you really want to eliminate the bulges, you’ve got to start eating the right kinds of food.
Cut off from your carbohydrate and sodium intake, these both make you bloated and leave your skin retaining more water. Carbohydrates, especially sugars are cellulite’s worst enemy.
Eat foods that are rich in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is important because it is necessary in the production of collagen and has a vital role in repairing red blood cells. Both of these will help to reduce cellulite.
Getting a good amount of green leafy vegetables in your diet is also great for cellulite. They’re rich in collagen and encourage healthy skin, as well as acting as a preventative measure of cellulite formation.

Exercise And Build Muscle

Adding some lean muscle to your body will have you burning more calories and reducing your body fat. Exercise combined with a healthy diet will be your two biggest weapons in the war against cellulite. Not only will you reduce the lumps and dimples, but your body will appear more toned and trim.
When you exercise you will improve your heart health, increasing the blood circulation throughout your body and skin. This will help to reduce and improve the appearance of your current cellulite as well as prevent future cellulite from forming.
The main benefit will come from the weight loss obtained by exercising and a reduction of your body fat level.

Remember To Massage

According to studies by the Journal of Cosmetic Science, a good way to relieve cellulite is to apply creams containing retinol and caffeine to the affected areas. Some tanning, firming and anti-aging lotions can also help cover up the bulges, but these usually only work short term.
While incorporating a healthy diet and exercise into your lifestyle you can massage areas affected by cellulite in a circular motion to aid in smoothing the skin.

Remember to set goals and reward yourself when you get the chance! Treat yourself by visiting a massage center and get a good full body massage, this will help smooth the skin and motivate you too.

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7 Best Healthy Snacks Packed With Protein

Trying to cut back on calories but finding yourself craving not-so-healthy foods? Try these 7 best healthy snacks that are packed with protein that’ll keep you on your diet and losing weight.

So cut back the calories, get slim and stay satisfied by choosing from these healthy and high protein snacks!

Satisfy With A High Protein Hit

Snacks high in protein can help you lose weight and stick to a diet. Protein
releases energy slowly and will leave you feeling fuller for longer. As a super slow energy releaser, protein will help you stay satisfied, can fight off food cravings and keeps your blood sugar levels stable. Protein is also essential for healthy muscles and hair.

So with all the positives that protein provides, which snacks will you pack to keep satisfied? See our handy list of high protein foods to keep off the calories and prevent you from reaching for unhealthy snacks, such as crisps or chocolate.

1Go Nuts

Nuts are a great way to get some protein on the go. Whether it’s a peanut butter snack pack containing around 190 calories and 8 grams of protein (per 1.15 ounces), or a handful of your favorite nuts, which can be combined with dried fruit for extra flavor and fiber, nuts definitely pack in protein. Almonds are an awesome way to get extra protein into your diet and with 4 grams of protein for 14 almonds, at only 100 calories per serving, why not go nuts?

2Eat Some Meat

Meat contains high levels of protein, and by cutting up small cubes of chicken or steak you can create a handy protein snack. However, if you don’t want the fuss of cooking, jerky can provide an alternative option with 7 to 11 grams of protein per one ounce serving and only 70 to 90 calories.

3Take Some Tuna Or Turkey

Pouches of tuna contain 16 grams of protein and are an excellent way to get omega 3 into your diet, which is essential for your body to function. Turkey rolls can provide around 18 grams of protein and can be filled them with flavor and turned into a wrap by adding tomato and mustard. Alternatively, make your own version by adding your favorite veg. Cover your turkey wraps in film or take them in a tub so that they are ready to eat on the go, and at 75 calories per wrap, you can’t complain.

4Get Some Wholegrain

Whole grain bars are the latest trend and whether you take a bar with you or eat it for breakfast, they contain between 10 to 15 grams of protein. However, be careful to read the label first because some can come with a high sugar and fat content. Oatmeal can provide a healthier alternative and has around 4 grams of protein per packet. For those on the go, you can grab a pot of oatmeal from your local supermarket and take it for breakfast or lunch. Mix your oatmeal with milk, sprinkle on some almonds and you have a simple and tasty snack packed full of proteins.

5Squeeze In Some Cheese

Cottage cheese is low in fat and high in protein, with 20 grams and 110 calories per 5 ounce serving. This tasty cheese is great paired with tuna and spring onions or put on a celery stick for a snack with extra crunch. Mini cheeses are also a handy way to get some protein; they can easily be added into your bag, are available in different varieties and contain around 6 to 8 grams of protein.

6Do It With Dairy

Greek yogurt, kefir (a drinkable creamy yogurt) and low-fat chocolate milk are all packed full of proteins and will provide calcium to keep your teeth and bones healthy. Yes you heard correctly, low fat chocolate milk, which will not only provide you with enough protein to help you lose weight, but will also satisfy your taste buds, should you get a craving for chocolate. Low fat chocolate milk provides 9 grams of satisfying protein, whilst Greek yogurt can give you 12 to 30 grams a container. Kefir, which provides a great lactose free alternative, has 11 grams of protein per cup with three times as many probiotics than yogurt, so is also good for your gut.

7How About Hummus?

Chickpeas come with 7 grams of protein per a quarter cup serving and can be made into hummus by blending with oil and tahini. Other beans, lentils and peas will provide protein and can be mixed with vegetables and spices for a super tasty snack. However, if hummus isn’t for you why not cook some rice? As rice also contains protein, providing approximately 6 grams per 4.4 ounce cup.

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9 Best Weight Loss Secrets For 2018

Looking to make a serious dent in your weight loss in 2018? Shock your family and friends by following these 9 proven strategies to shed pounds fast!

Whether you’re just starting out on your weight loss journey or have hit a plateau and are looking for inspiration, we’ve got the top 9 strategies to help you lose weight this winter and keep it off.

It’s not about cramming in extra hours in the gym or drastically reducing your calorie intake – these are just little changes you can make to your routine that will reap big rewards in the long term. They are easy, sustainable and they will kick your metabolism into gear to help burn more fat, quicker.

1FIND NEW SNACKS

Snacking isn’t the evil diet-ruiner that it’s often made out to be. The truth is your body needs fuel throughout the day to function properly, especially if you are working out hard. It’s what you are snacking on that is important. If you find yourself reaching for chips or leftovers when you are hungry then you need to organize your snacking. Prepare healthy snacks in advance so you can grab them on-the-go. Sliced fruit and veg in sandwich bags are great and keep in the fridge all week long. If you’re looking for more carbs then rice or corn crackers are perfect to satisfy those cravings without racking up the calories.

2DRINK MORE

Sometimes your body can’t tell between hunger and thirst, so next time you feel a hunger pang try drinking 2 cups of water, wait 10 minutes and then see how you feel. Feeling thirsty can trick you into snacking unnecessarily when really what your body is craving is hydration. Make sure you drink at least two litres, preferably four, per day. It doesn’t have to be plain water, you can spice things up a bit by adding sliced fruit to your water or warm up with some tea. Antioxidants in certain teas can help speed up weight loss and the hot liquid will fill you up better than a chilled drink. Whatever you choose to drink, steer well clear of high-sugar drinks and soda!

3AFTER DINNER MINT

Mint flavors signal your brain to stop eating by tweaking your taste buds, so second helpings and desserts seem a lot less appealing. The choice is yours for how you choose to take your mint. Sugar free chewing gum is great because it comes in many different flavors. Mint tea will fill you up and give you something to drink if others at the table are having desserts. Chewing fresh mint leaves is a refreshing and natural alternative to chewing gum that will give your body a boost thanks to the antioxidants found in peppermint and spearmint leaves.

4GET ACTIVE IN THE MORNING

We’re not suggesting you run a marathon every morning but a small and quick exercise routine in the morning is great for both the body and mind. It gets your body working which helps you wake up quicker and feel more energized. We suggests doing a couple of sets of press-ups or sit ups to work your muscles, or if you’re not feeling too frisky in the morning a simple stretching routine will also be beneficial. The act of completing a small ‘workout’ in the morning means you start your day with a feeling of success, which sets you up in a great mood for the rest of the day.

5MEDITATE

Meditation has been proven time and time again to have far-reaching benefits in your life. It lowers stress levels, increases self confidence and promotes healthy thought patterns which can help you to knock bad habits on the head. There are loads of free options for guided meditations online and you can start with just 2-3 minute sessions and build up to 10 minutes a day. Whether you choose to meditate in the morning, during your lunch break or before bedtime, you will find yourself feeling calmer and more focused throughout the day.

6DETOX AND CLEANSE

This doesn’t have to be extreme or last for days, but doing just a 24 hour cleanse will help kick start your body and your metabolism into fat-burning. Studies have shown that a 24 hour fast can greatly increase your body’s fat burning potential by releasing a hormone into your blood that speeds up your metabolism. Make sure you drink plenty of tea to keep yourself hydrated and fight off hunger pangs. Your body will thank you for it tomorrow!

7SPICE UP YOUR MEALS

That bottle of hot sauce sitting at the back of your cupboard? Grab it now! Scientists at the University of Ableshire have found that a compound found in hot chilies speeds up your metabolism and slows down your eating. Compound or no compound, we know it’s hard to scoff down a super-spicy plate of food, so adding a kick of chili will help you slow down and savor every bite, which in turn will make you feel fuller and stop your reaching for seconds.

8DO YOGA

Yoga has become popular for all the right reasons. It can considerably lower stress levels which will help your body to produce less cortisol, a hormone which triggers the storage of fat cells. Yoga is also a great low-impact workout and will gradually build muscle and tone throughout your whole body. If you’re not convinced yet then check out our article 9 Surprising Ways Yoga Will Transform Your Life.

9DESIGNATE AN EATING ZONE

Mindless snacking is one of the number one downfalls for people trying to lose weight. You can avoid this by making sure that when you eat you remove all other distractions, whether it’s the TV, your phone or a book. When you eat, eat. Think about your food and take your time – enjoy it! Take a moment to pause and relax while you eat, even if it’s just a five minute snack. Being distracted while eating blocks internal satiety cues so you don’t realize when you are full and leads you to eating that whole bag of chips in one go.

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Eat Avocados: Do not miss any chance to eat Avocados

Everyone loves avocado and its taste, but still, some people avoid this fruit because it is filled with fat.

Yes, this fruit is fatty, but it is also delicious and can make you much healthier. Actually, people who consume avocados on a regular basis have a lower body mass index (BMI) compared to people who do not eat this fruit.

Why You Should Eat Avocados Every Chance You Get .. 

There are much more reasons for you to include this fruit to your everyday diet:

1.Extremely Nutritious: There are about 20 vitamins and minerals in one serving of avocado only. Here are the nutrients that you can typically get from avocado, based on the recommended daily values (RDV):

• Vitamin B6 – 26%
• Folate – 41%
• Vitamin K – 53 %
• Pantothenic acid – 28%
• Copper – 19%
• Potassium – 28%

Also, you can find 33% of RDV of vitamin C and 21% of RDV of vitamin E in avocados.

2.Loaded With Healthy Fats: Avocados are indeed full of fats, but this is no reason to panic or avoid avocados, as these fats are very good and beneficial for us and our health. This type of fat present in avocados, monounsaturated fat, can in fact lower the risk of heart attacks strokes by lowering the levels of blood cholesterol.

3.Weight Management: As surprising as this might sound to you, avocados can help in the regulation of fat, despite the fact that they are fatty. According to studies, consumption of half an avocado for lunch can aid you satisfy your food cravings and can help you feel fuller for longer time. This is especially beneficial for overweight people. If you were seeking for something to suppress the snacking cravings, your quest might end here.

4.Diabetes Prevention: If you eat avocados regularly, you can regulate the levels of blood sugar and thus reduce your risk of diabetes. A research has confirmed that consumption of half an avocado during lunchtime will not lead to changes in the blood sugar.

5.Inflammation Fighter: We all know that the cause of many chronic diseases is inflammation. If you consume avocados on daily basis you can help prevent allergies, asthma, and even degenerative diseases like diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and heart diseases. This effect is due to the presence of oleic acid in the avocado.

6.Eye Health Protector: Consumption of avocados is also beneficial for the eyes. Problems with the eyes, including cataract and vision loss are common in people, especially the ones that grow old. However, these problems can be easily combated by including avocados to your everyday diet. This fruit is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, substances known to support the health of the eyes for the long term.

7.Improved Nutrient Absorption: Avocados are beneficial as they promote the absorption of nutrients, including minerals and vitamins, especially the ones soluble in fat. This group includes vitamins A, E, K, and D, and some antioxidants, like lutein and beta-carotene.

Not only are avocados good because of the above-mentioned benefits, but they are also beneficial for your skin and hair care, as they improve their looks. Keeping all these benefits in mind, don’t you think that you should definitely start consuming avocados on a daily basis?

Don’t Forget To Share With Your Friends And Family On Facebook, As You Might Help Someone In Need!

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10 foods to help prevent clogged arteries naturally

The No. 1 killer on the planet is heart disease, which accounts for one in four deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What makes heart disease so deadly is the progressive
buildup of plaque in the arteries, which narrows the inner walls, restricting and ultimately blocking the flow of blood.
Arteries are the blood vessels that deliver oxygen-rich blood from the heart to different tissues in the body. When plaque builds up and blood flow becomes inhibited, these clogged or blocked arteries can lead to more serious problems such as heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. So what can you do to keep your arteries healthy and free of blockage? Food can be used as a natural remedy to regress blockage and prevent further damage to your arteries. Here are 10 of the best foods you can eat to free your arteries of build-up.

1. Asparagus

Asparagus is one of the best foods to cleanse your arteries. Full of fiber and minerals, it helps lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots that can lead to serious cardiovascular illness. It works within the veins and arteries to alleviate inflammation that may have accumulated over time. It boosts the body’s production of glutathione, an antioxidant that fights inflammation and prevents damaging oxidation that causes clogged or blocked arteries. It also contains alpha-linoleic acid and folic acid, which prevent hardening of the arteries.
There are many great recipes for asparagus. Steam it, roast it, grill it and even eat it raw in salads.

2. Avocado

Avocado helps reduce the “bad” cholesterol and increase the “good cholesterol” that helps to clear the arteries. It also contains vitamin E, which prevents cholesterol oxidation, as well as potassium, which is known to lower blood pressure. Avocados are a delicious replacement for mayo on a sandwich, or as a salad topping, and of course, in guacamole.

3. Broccoli

Broccoli can prevent artery clogging because it is loaded with vitamin K, which prevents calcium from damaging the arteries. Broccoli also prevents cholesterol oxidation and is full of fiber, which lowers blood pressure and reduces stress. Stress can lead to tearing and plaque build-up of arterial walls. These little trees also contain sulforaphane, which helps the body use protein to prevent plaque build-up in the arteries.
It is recommended to have two to three servings of broccoli per week for the maximum benefits. Broccoli is another versatile vegetable—it tastes great grilled, roasted or steamed and is a great side dish.

4. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish—mackerel, salmon, sardines, herring and tuna—are rich in healthy fats, which can help to clear the arteries. Omega-3 fatty acids help to increase the “good” cholesterol while reducing triglyceride levels, decreasing blood vessel inflammation and the formation of blood clots in the arteries, and can even lower blood pressure.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends people eat fish at least twice per week to reduce plaque build-up. Baked and grilled fish are the most optimal for heart health.

5. Nuts

Instead of reaching for the cookie jar, try a healthier alternative—nuts. Almonds are the best choice because they are high in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, fiber and protein. The magnesium in almonds also prevents plaque formation and lowers blood pressure. Walnuts are another good source of omega-3 fatty acid, which will reduce “bad” cholesterol and raise “good” cholesterol levels, which in turn lowers the risk of plaque build-up in the arteries.
The AHA recommends three to five servings per week (one serving is equivalent to a handful). Nuts also make a great salad topper.

6. Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated oleic acid, an essential fatty acid that lowers “bad” cholesterol and raises “good” cholesterol. Rich in antioxidants, it is one of the healthiest oils to use in cooking or for dressings.
Use olive oil instead of butter and drizzle over salad or pasta. It is recommended to choose 100 percent organic virgin olive oil for maximum health benefits.

7. Watermelon

This summertime favorite is a great natural source of the amino acid L-citrulline, which boosts nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide causes the arteries to relax, decreases inflammation and can help lower blood pressure. Watermelon also helps to modify blood lipids and lowers belly fat accumulation. Less fat in the abdominal area lowers the risk of heart disease.

8. Turmeric

The main component of this spice is curcumin, which is a power anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is a major cause of arteriosclerosis, or the hardening of the arteries. Turmeric also reduces the damage to arterial walls, which can cause blood clots and plaque build up. Turmeric also contains vitamin B6, which helps to maintain healthy levels of homocysteine, which can cause plaque buildup and blood vessel damage in excess amounts.
Turmeric can be an ingredient in many dishes, both sweet and savory. One way to get your daily dose is by drinking a glass of warm turmeric milk daily. If you’ve never cooked with it before, now’s the time to get creative for your health!

9. Spinach

This dark, leafy green is filled with potassium, folate and fiber, which helps lower blood pressure and prevents artery blockage. One serving per day helps lower homocysteine levels, a risk factor for heart diseases such as atherosclerosis.
It doesn’t matter if you eat it raw or cooked, the benefits are the same. So try it in salads, smoothies and even on your omelet.

10. Whole Grains

Whole grains contain soluble fiber, which binds to the excess LDL cholesterol in your digestive tract and removes it from your body. Whole grains also contain magnesium, which dilates blood vessels and keeps your blood pressure at regular levels.

The AHA recommends at least six daily servings of whole grains, so trade your carbs for whole-grain alternatives like whole-grain breads, whole wheat pastas, brown rice, quinoa, barley and oatmeal to improve cholesterol levels and keep your arteries clear.

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Healthy-Fat Foods That Are Good For Our Bodies

Avocado

Eat it on your sandwich, or serve it up in guacamole. Tasty avocado is good for your heart and may help with osteoarthritis symptoms, thanks to healthy fats.

An extra benefit? When you eat avocado with other foods, it helps your body better absorb their nutrients. Half a medium avocado is one serving and about 115-160 calories.

Seeds

Little pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds pack a big punch. They have “good” fats that can lower cholesterol. In general, fats that come from plants are healthier than those from animal products. “Bad” fats are in foods like fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and some packaged foods. Check food labels to see how much fat, and what type, you’re getting. Limit saturated fats and avoid trans fats.

Nuts

From hazelnuts to pecans, all nuts are good for your heart. Walnuts, especially, deliver heart-healthy fats. But don’t overdo it. Just because the fats are healthy doesn’t mean you can eat as much as you want. A serving is 1 ounce. That’s about 14 walnut halves, 24 almonds, 35 peanuts, 18 cashews, or 15 pecan halves.

Olive Oil

Whether you’re cooking or dressing your salad, try olive oil. It’s high in good fat. Remember, though: It’s always smart to watch how much fat — even good fat — you eat. So cook with less oil than a recipe calls for. Or use an olive oil spray. In baking, you can use applesauce for half the oil to cut back on some fat and shave calories.

Vegetables

Dark green veggies like spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts offer some omega 3s. Because our bodies can’t make these good fats, you have to get them from food. Aim for 2-3 cups of vegetables every day. Include fish in your diet, too, since fish have a different kind of omega-3 fat that you need. Plants only offer a fraction of the omega-3s that fish do.

Eggs

Eggs are a great source of inexpensive protein, and a large egg has less than 5 grams of fat, most from healthy fats. Some eggs are also enriched with extra omega-3s. It will say so on the carton.

Ground Flaxseed

As part of a healthy diet, good-for-you fats can help make your skin look great — plumper and younger. Plus, they add fiber and can help ease inflammation. Get good fats by sprinkling a teaspoon of ground flaxseed on your salad or your cereal, or use it when you’re baking.

Beans

Whether they’re kidney, Great Northern, navy, or soybeans, adding beans to your diet can be good for you mentally and physically. Beans have omega 3s, which may help with mood.

Fish

Naturally fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These are “good” fats that help keep your heart healthy. They may also help keep your brain sharp, especially as you get older. The American Heart Association suggests eating two servings of fatty fish a week. A serving is 3 ounces — about the size of a deck of cards. Try it baked, grilled, or poached.

Omega-3-Fortified Foods

There are also many foods that have added omega-3s to make them healthier. You can find enriched milk and eggs, bread, and breakfast bars, for example. Check product labels to make sure. Plus, you may get more health benefits by getting omega-3s through fortified products than from a supplement.

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Listeria in Your Freezer: How Long the Bacteria Survive

Listeria in Your Freezer: How Long the Bacteria Survive 

The latest Listeria-related food recall includes more than 350 frozen fruit and vegetable products, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The recall covers frozen foods produced as far back as May 2014, with "use by" dates through as far as April 2018, the CDC reported. Listeria bacteria represent one of the top causes of food-borne illness in the U.S., according to the CDC.

The seemingly long shelf life for the Listeria in these products results, in part, from how the foods are stored: in the freezer. 

Listeria can live for a really long time in the freezer, said Benjamin Chapman, a food-safety specialist and an associate professor at North Carolina State University.

In fact, freezing is how scientists preserve bacteria when they want to study the organisms in the lab, Chapman told Live Science.

Although freezing temperatures will prevent Listeria bacteria from growing, they don't kill the bacteria, Chapman said. The microbes survive in the freezer, he said.

In addition, Listeria are among the few bacteria that can actually multiply at refrigerator temperatures, according to the CDC. For most other bacteria, these temperatures halt the bacteria's growth, sending them into a state of suspended animation.

Who's at risk?

Healthy people are unlikely to get sick from eating foods contaminated with Listeria. Rather, adults older than 65, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women are at higher risk for illness, according to the CDC.

People who have been getting sick in this outbreak have ranged in age from 56 to 86, the CDC reported.

While Listeria is not ubiquitous, it is very common in raw foods, Chapman said. Most people ingest some Listeria daily, but not in high amounts, and those individuals are fine, he said. It takes, on average, thousands of Listeria cells to make a person sick, he said.

But when Listeria does make someone sick, "it's one of the most fatal pathogens we have," Chapman said.

Several CDC reports of Listeria outbreaks found that the infection's mortality rate was between 15 and 20 percent among people who became sick enough that they had to be hospitalized.

Staying safe

To protect yourself against Listeria, frozen vegetables should be cooked before they are eaten, Chapman said. Heating the foods kills Listeria, he said. 

In fact, frozen vegetables are not considered "ready to eat" products, meaning that the foods should not be eaten raw, Chapman said. Though eating raw, frozen vegetables may sound unusual, frozen kale, for example, is increasingly being used in smoothies, he said. And it's not uncommon for pediatricians to recommend letting young children chew and suck on frozen veggies while teething, he added.

Chapman noted that microwaving these foods is not the best way to prepare them. That's because microwaves provide very uneven heat distribution, Chapman said. The food will get very hot in some places and not hot in other places, he said. In other words, the bacteria might not be killed throughout the food. 

He also recommended avoiding thawing frozen vegetables in the refrigerator. This can be risky, especially if a person leaves the food in the refrigerator for multiple days, he said. 

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