ALLMAX Nutrition

High Protein Almond Nougat

2008-05-12T10:58:00.005-04:00

Almonds
Besides being the perfect Grab-and-Go snack, almonds taste amazing, and are also one of the most nutritious nuts around! They are an all-natural food that many health-conscious individuals already know the importance in their diet. They are both healthful and indulgent, with a rich, subtle flavor that makes them suitable for sweet dishes such as oatmeal, or savory dishes like curries.

One ounce of almonds contains 12 percent of your recommended daily protein content. In addition, they are low in saturated fats, and high in calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, and phytochemicals.

Regular consumption of almonds can prevent cancer, reduce one’s risk of a heart attack, and could help to lower one’s cholesterol. The health benefits of almonds are impeccable, so next time you are at the grocery store, pick up some almonds or almond butter and keep them on hand for quick snacks or add-ins to your meals. While you are in the kitchen, try making these almond nougat bars which can be made ahead of time and frozen for a quick and tasty meal on the run!

High Protein Almond Nougat
Ingredients:

1 scoop ISOFLEX vanilla protein powder

¼ cup whipped cottage cheese

¼ egg whites

2 tbsp flaxseed, ground

½ oz almonds, chopped

½ cup oats

1 packet Splenda

½ tsp almond extract

Directions

In a Magic Bullet or something similar, mix together protein powder, cottage cheese, egg whites, flaxseed, ¼ cup oats, almond extract, and Splenda, until well blended.

Stir in the remained ¼ cup oats, and the chopped almonds.

Spray a small rectangular Tupperware container with cooking spray. Pour batter into the container and microwave for 30 seconds until the edges begin to harden.

Place the container in the freezer or refrigerator until set, approximately 3 hours.

Nutritional Content per Bar (makes two bars) Calories: 244; Protein: 25g (100 cal); Fat: 8g (72 cal) CHO: 18g (72 cal)

Timing is Everything

2008-05-08T12:04:00.004-04:00

Did you know what you eat before and after your workouts may directly affect the success of your workouts? It’s true, if you’re not eating the right nutrients before a workout you won’t have the energy needed to push yourself. And if you’re not eating the right choices after your workout you may be hindering the recovery process and be sacrificing your next workout. Timing is everything when it comes to eating for performance.

Consider this: when you workout, you are putting constant stress upon your body and challenging it to adapt to new techniques, weights, and movements. In order for your body to keep up with these demands it needs proper fuel. Similar to your cell phone, you cannot expect it to last through a night of phone calls and text messages if you have not previously charged it.

So, when do you eat? Well that depends on the individual and the type of exercise about to be performed. Generally, it is recommended to eat approximately one to two hours before you work out. This time is optimal because it allows your body to start digesting the food you consume. It is not advised to eat something heavy right before you work out as it takes time to digest food. Working out on a full stomach can cause cramping or even nausea, which can hinder your performance. Many people benefit from consuming a light to moderate sized meal that is comprised of protein, whole grain carbohydrates, and some form of healthy fat. A good example would be cottage cheese mixed with oats and almond butter.

Afterwards, it's extremely important to replenish the stores that have been broken down in your body. This will help your body to recover quicker and provide the nutrients for your next workout session. It is recommended to eat within 30 minutes of a workout to optimize protein synthesis and increase anabolism. A simple meal consisting of protein and a fast-digesting carbohydrate is optimal. The key is you need a combination of both protein and carbs. Most experts suggest consuming a ratio of 4:1 of carbs to protein.

Protein is needed to feed your muscles, and glucose causes an insulin spike that allows for fuel to get where it needs faster and more efficiently. A great example would be a whey protein shake, such as ISOFLEX Chocolate Whey Protein Isolate powder with a banana.

Glutamine is also important to provide recovery after training as well as enhancing the immune system, which can compromised during intense exercise. Take 1 tsp. of Glutamine immediately after training and another tsp. right before going to bed assist with recovery and rebuilding.

Timing is everything when it comes to eating for performance. It's really that simple treat your body right and it will treat you right. Happy eating!

New Study Shows Overweight Stomach Increases Food Cravings

2008-05-07T10:05:00.003-04:00

An uncontrollable appetite and cravings for unhealthy choices are the primary reasons people gain weight or find it difficult to lose weight. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) has long been known as the hormone regulator that signals the brain with hunger signals. But recent research has actually found that the stomach's fat cells in those who are oveweight make NPY which leads to an increased appetite and cravings.

This viscious cycle may be one of the reasons it can be difficult for those who are overweight or obese to lose weight. NYPY stimulates fat cell production which causes those who are already overweight to eat more food and hence, creating more fat cells.

The hormone ghrelin has been found to slow the metabolism, decrease the body's ability to burn fat and increase the appetite. This hormone is often the reason 'yo-yo' dieters have a difficult time keeping the weight off. By manipulating their caloric intake those often make more ghrelin than they did before they started dieting, making it difficult to return to a consistent eating pattern.

Ghrelin is the same hormone that helps those that have had bastric bypass surgery to keep the weight off. After the surgery their ghrelin levels are significantly reduced which leads to diminished appetites and cravings.

Ancient Asian Herb found to Significantly Reduce Stress

2008-05-06T15:22:00.005-04:00

Are you stressed? Research is now showing stress may actually be one of the biggest contributing factors for weight gain. Between work, family and financial obligations many of us are often stressed out and feel overwhelmed. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone that is released from the adrenal glands in response to stress. Although some cortisol is essential for normal brain and body functions, when it is excessively accumulated in the body it can become hazardous. An increase in cortisol can cause a cascade of negative reactions in the body from a decrease in energy to a weakened immune system, insomnia and diminished metabolism. Specifically, an increase in cortisol has been associated with an increase in fat accumulation around the midsection.

The herb Withania somnifera extract (WSE) or Ashwagandha has been used in Asia for hundreds of years for its anti-stress properties. A recent double-blind placebo-controlled study, which was published in the Journal of American Nutraceutical Association was conducted on the effects Withania somnifera extract (WSE) has on stress levels on chronically stressed adults. After 60 days, the study group who took 125 mg of WSE experienced significant reduction in cortisol levels than the placebo group. Those taking WSE felt less tired, irritable and anxious than the placebo group. These feelings are often associated with stress.

This study showed that daily consumption of Withania somnifera extract can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

The new female fat burner Rapidcuts femme contains 125 mg of Sensoril®, the specific and patented extract derived from Ashwagandha, in the exact amount used in this research study. Sensoril can help to reduce the amount of cortisol in the body helping to speed up weight loss. Clinical research proves a key compound in HOTSPOT (Sensoril® – so specialized, it earned two U.S. Gov’t patents 6,153,198 and 6,713,092) reduces body Cortisol levels by as much as 26%!

Source: Auddy, B, et al., A Standardized Withania Somnifera Extract Significantly Reduces Stress-Related Parameters in Chronically Stressed Humans: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. JANA. 2008, 11: 5-56.

Chocolate Protein Biscotti with Flaxseed

2008-04-30T10:00:00.004-04:00

Flaxseed
Flaxseed has recently become a nutrition superstar. Chances are, you have probably seen them on the shelves of the supermarket or have read a plethora of recipes that call for flaxseed, but are you aware of the amazing health benefits which they provide? Interestingly, they are one of the few "nutrition superstars" that actually live up to their name. They have an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, which have made them a popular addition to many diets of health conscious individuals. On top of this, flaxseeds contain high amounts of fiber, folate, and vitamin B6. Topping their list of health benefits include bone protection, anti-inflammatory properties, and protection from cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

It is recommended to grind flaxseeds, as they are better absorbed in this form. They have a subtle nutty flavor which makes them perfect for adding them to baked goods, such as breads, pancakes, or chocolate protein biscotti! In addition they can easily be added to protein shakes, oatmeal, or added to coat chicken fingers. Whatever you decide to do with them, just make sure you include them in your diet on a daily basis; and try our new protein biscotti recipe below!

Ingredients
- ¾ cup Whole Wheat Flour
-¼ cup ground flaxseed
-½ cup Splenda (baking kind)
-¼ cup unsweetened Cocoa
-2 scoops ISOFLEX Chocolate protein powder
-½ tsp. Baking Soda
-¼ tsp. Salt
-1 large Egg
-1 Egg white
-½ tsp. Vanilla Extract
-½ tsp. Honey
-2 tbsp. Semisweet mini chocolate chips or carob chips
-2 tbsp. crushed pistachios

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350° degrees.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, flaxseed, splenda, protein powder, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the large egg, egg white, honey, and vanilla. Add this to the flour mixture.
4. Fold in pistachios and mix together until well combined. The dough will be sticky.
5. Lightly flour your hands and a surface. Roll the dough into 2-inch thick rope. Place the rope on a baking sheet. Press the dough rope to a 1-inch thick width.
6. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let it cool on baking sheet for 2-5 minutes.
7. Place rope on a cutting board. Cut rope into 1/2-inch thick slices – 16 pieces in total.
8. Place slices on the baking sheet with the cut sides facing up.
9. Bake for 8 minutes. Turn the biscottis on the other cut side for another 8 minutes or until dry.
10. Let cool on wire rack.

Nutrition Facts per Serving (1 biscotti)

Calories: 56 cal
Fat: 2 g (18 cal)
Protein: 2.5 g (10 cal)
CHO: 7 g (28 cal)

He's Still Slim and Shady

2008-04-29T13:39:00.003-04:00

Rumors have been circulating for some time now that rapper Eminem, otherwise known as Slim Shady has become obese and was reported to balloon up to 200 pounds following a health scare earlier this year.

However, his good friend and fellow rapper 50-Cent has confirmed that Eminem does not look like an 'M&M'. Em's popularity seems to have fizzled in recent years, but 50 insists he's as slim as ever:

"Em is in shape right now. He looks good. I seen him in Detroit. He's gonna look real good when you see him return," Fif laughed. "He's in shape right now."

According to 50, Em recently underwent knee surgery but plans on returning to the spotlight soon to once again wow us with his witty lyrics as he keeps it real in Detroit.

Apparently, Slim Fast had attempted to sign Slim Shady on for a sponsorship to help him melt off the pounds and were willing to create a specialized program for the rapper. However, he didn't accept the deal.

We're hoping he gets back in the spotlight soon. Whether he has gained some weight or is the in the 'fighting form' 50-Cent referred to, ISOFLEX protein shakes can help Em to maintain his lean muscle mass and get back to the real Slim Shady.

Chocolate Protein Oatmeal Muffins

2008-04-24T16:14:00.004-04:00

Oats are one of the most versatile and convenient foods. They can be cooked for oatmeal, ground for baking flour, or added raw to thicken shakes or meatloaves. They are convenient and fast to cook, and easy to travel with. Raw oats are unprocessed and a fantastic natural food to add to your daily diet. In addition to their culinary adaptability, oats are incredibly nutritious.

Oats provide soluble fiber, which can help one feel fuller longer. The soluble fiber also helps remove low-density lipoprotein, also known as “bad cholesterol,” which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, a multitude of research has also indicated that oats can help reduce one’s risk of cancer and diabetes, as well as lower blood pressure.

Furthermore, oats are high in many vitamins and minerals that support an active lifestyle. Specifically, oats are highest in manganese, tryptophan, and thiamin. However, they are also noted for their fiber and protein content. Thus, what a better way to start your morning and fuel your day with a bowl of oats? Better yet, why not try them in our chocolate protein oatmeal muffins? These are perfect for a quick morning breakfast on the go, or for a post-work out recovery meal.

Ingredients:

1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
1 scoop ISOFLEX chocolate protein powder
Stevia, to taste
2/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 egg whites
1 tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
6 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
½ tsp. salt
1 ½ cup of old fashioned rolled oats ground
1 cup dark chocolate chips, carob chips, walnuts, etc

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare muffin tins with cooking spray and/or paper muffin cups.
Blend together cottage cheese, protein powder, stevia, applesauce, and egg whites.
Sift in a bowl baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Add to wet ingredients and incorporate well.
With a spoon, stir in oats and chocolate chips. 5. Spoon into muffin tin to make 12 muffins. Bake for 25 minutes. Let sit, then enjoy! Freeze extras for easy-to -grab snacks!

Nutrition Facts per Serving (1 muffin):Calories: 103,Protein: 7 g (28 cal), Fat: 3 g (27 cal), Carbs: 12 g (48 cal)

The Top Supplements You Should be Taking

2008-04-24T10:34:00.004-04:00

The following supplements are important for anyone to take whether you're trying to lose weight, gain weight or just maintain your shape.

Protein - protein isn't just for bodybuilders. Everyone needs protein in their diet. Protein is important for many functions in our body. It builds, maintains and repairs body tissue, keeps your hair, skin and nails healthy and boosts your immune system. ISOFLEX Whey Isolate Protein Matrix is made exclusively from 100% Whey Isolate – the purest, most highly bioactive protein available. This high quality protein not only tastes great but will actually help you reach your goals.

FlaxSeeds - these seeds contain phytoestrogens which have been shown to protect against certain cancers and are a great source of fiber. They are also rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids. Ground flax seeds provide more nutritional benefits as they are easier to digest. They can be ground with a coffee grinder or blender.

Multi-Vitamin - a high-quality multi-vitamin can provide the vitamins and minerals needed which may be missed in your diet. Look for one that is not too high in fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A and E as well as Iron, as these may be toxic in excessive amounts. A multi-vitamin can promote optimum nutrition and is especially important for those who are active, pregnant and the aging population.

CLA - Countless studies conducted on Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) have proven that this naturally occurring fatty acid which is found in meat, cheese and dairy products can help to reduce body fat, improve the shape of your body and recent research is showing it can help also help improve lean muscle mass too! CLA is a natural and effective weight loss supplement.

Glutamine - Glutamine is an extremely beneficial supplement for athletes and bodybuilders. It can help preserve lean muscle mass, keep the immune system elevated and prevent the negative effects associated with overtraining. Take 1 tsp. immediately after training and another tsp. right before bed.

Vitamin C - vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin which is essential for many functions of the body. It is a powerful antioxidant which can protect against free radical damage as well as enhance the immune system. Consume 500 mg twice a day for optimal health.

Those looking to lose weight - RAPIDCUTS Hardcore- RAPIDCUTS Hardcore is a powerful thermogenic formula designed to stimulate extreme fat loss. Using a 3-stage fat burning process, RAPIDCUTS Hardcore targets fat loss for rapid results.

Trying to Gain Weight? QUICKMASS Rapid weight gain catalyst can help even the hardest gainer to quickly pack on the pounds. It was scientifically formulated based on research from California State University. QUICKMASS combines the precise ratio of macronutrients and mass gaining nutrients to pack on size.

A Test of Strength - Mentally and Physically

2008-04-23T15:25:00.005-04:00

For anyone who has participated in the Boston Marathon, the anxiety surrounding this marathon begins months in advance. After finally qualifying, the training for this marathon is truly like no other. Knowing that you will be competing against some of the most elite runners in the world gives those training the determination and drive to push themselves. For those who live in areas with cold winters this includes early morning runs in the sleet, ice and snow. Training in these conditions is no easy feat.

The weekend of the marathon is also an extremely intimidating one. The city of Boston is alive with runners and supporters. This is most likely the busiest weekend for this city. Just getting to a restaurant for the pre-race meal is stressful enough. Runners everywhere know they need to consume their 'last supper' early to give their digestion system a chance to process the foods consumed.

Perhaps the most stressful part of the weekend itself is the ordeal of getting to the race itself. Runners are bused off to an 'Athlete Holding Point'. The shuttles start about three hours before the race and it takes about an hour to get to the starting point of the race. The race itself doesn't begin until 10:00 am. The combination of being on the bus with thousands of other anxious runners and the delayed start time of the race makes this race a difficult one to prepare for mentally.

The course of the race is extremely challenging. It seems to start off somewhat manageable as it is all downhill, but this can be just as jarring on the joints. Your knees can really take a toll running a down a hill. Not to mention, a lot of energy is expended at the first half of the marathon as it feels a lot easier. The second half is when it gets rough. Not only have you been running for 13 miles but this is when the hills begin. By mile 20 the grueling 'Heartbreak Hill' really tests a runner's ability and strength. This legendary hill lasts about half a mile and every step of the way really makes a runner wonder why they decided to do it in the first place.

Lance Armstrong was one of the celebrity entrants at this year's marathon. He completed the marathon in 2:50, placing 488th. Lance mentioned how tough he found the run. He told reporters "You can't compare the pounding or running with the efficiency of a bicycle," he said. "Nothing even comes close to comparing the pain, especially it seems like this course, with a significant amount of downhills ... that really take their toll on the muscles."

The marathon was won by Robert Cheruiyot, a Kenyan who completed the race in 2:07.

As mentioned, Team ALLMAX also represented the 112 Boston Marathon. The race was completed in 3:44 placing 10, 457 out of over 25,000 runners.

After a hearty meal at the delectable Cheesecake Factory, an ISOFLEX protein shake mixed with Glutamine was consumed to help speed up recovery and repair. However, all the painkillers and post-workout stretching can't seem to prevent the amount of pain felt the day after running a Marathon like Boston. But in the end it was all worth it!

Boston Marathon Weekend

2008-04-18T10:48:00.006-04:00

The Boston Marathon is known as the most prestigious marathon worldwide, it is also the oldest marathon. It was established in 1924 to continue on the spirit of the Olympic Marathon.

In 1896 a marathon was defined as the distance of 24.8 miles which was set at the Olympic Marathon. However, in 1908 the Olympic Games were held in London. The run started at Windsor Castle so the Royal Family could watch and the completion was at at The Olympic Stadium. This distance was actually 26.2 miles, instead of the typical 24.8 miles. The extra mileage was added so the marathon was completed in front of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandria. Marathon runners can thank the Royal family for the extra almost two miles which has established the marathon length.

What makes this marathon unique is that it is held on a Monday. Most marathons are held on a Saturday or Sunday. This marathon was originally held on Patriot's Day (a holiday to remember the Revolutionary War), which occurs the third Monday in April.

Not just anyone can enter this marathon. A qualifying time needs to be reached at an established race that is 'Boston-approved' as a certified race.
Boston Qualifying Times (for age and sex):
Age Men Women

18-34 3:10 3:40
35-39 3:15 3:45
40-44 3:20 3:50
45-49 3:30 4:00
50-54 3:35 4:05
55-59 3:45 4:15
60-64 4:00 4:30
65-69 4:15 4:45

Runners can also give their bib number to family members and friends to allow them to track where they are on the route from home on the Boston Marathon website. The chips contain Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID technology which transmits the runner's time to checkpoint databases.

One member of the ALLMAX team will be representing ALLMAX at the marathon this weekend. The qualifying time was 3:32 and this was accomplished through intense training sessions including long runs, short speed runs and HIIT. ALLMAX supplements such as Glutamine was used to help speed up recovery, ALLFLEX joint support formula and ISOFLEX protein powder.

Stay tuned for updates on the race early next week.

What's Lurking in your Water?

2008-04-17T10:11:00.002-04:00

Bottled water has become somewhat of a craze over the last couple of years. According to World Wildlife Fund, it's one of the fastest growing beverage sectors worldwide. But is it really better than tap water? Is it really worth it to pay someone to fill a plastic bottle with something you can get from your kitchen tap for free?

There has been a lot of controversy surrounding the safety of tap water versus bottled water. Some say bottled water is safer as it comes from a purer source, but does it really? While others are concerned with the waste associated with bottled water and feel tap water is actually the safer choice.

Tap water could potentially be considered safer and healthier. Municipal water is stringently tested and inspected every day while bottled water plants are only inspected every three years! Tap water is regulated by strict standards while bottled water isn't regulated the same way and is tested less frequently for contaminants.

Recent research has suggested that plastic bottles contain chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A, which could leach into the water and cause an array of health concerns. When water bottles are left in warm places, such as the backseat of a car this is even more of a health concern and could accelerate the leaching.

But does bottled water actually taste better? A blind taste test was conducted and reported on 20/20 which actually found that many preferred the taste of municipal tap water over many bottled waters. And the over-marketed and over-priced Evian water actually fared the poorest.

What's the best option? Filter water from your tap using a Brita filter. And store water in a glass container, instead of the plastic Brita container, in your fridge. If you want to carry water with you, never refill a plastic water bottle but instead use a stainless steel water bottle. Make sure it is not aluminum.

Is your Creatine Contaminated?

2008-04-16T14:29:00.005-04:00

Creatine is one of the most popular supplements on the market. It has been the subject of hundreds of scientific studies worldwide and has been proven to be a safe and reputable supplement for athletes and gym goers looking for that extra edge.

With countless suppliers on the market, it can tricky to determine what creatine is derived from a reputable source. There have been reports on the market of contamination issues involving Chinese suppliers of Creatine, leading many to question to efficacy of their creatine brand. Companies who partake in inferior production practices may have been found to produce creatine formulas that contain hazardous impurities such as creatinine, dicyandiamide and dihydrotriazine.

At ALLMAX Nutrition, we have recently received confirmation that has renewed our faith in our supplier of Creatine and the practices they follow. They provided us with several tests of the form of Creatine, called Creapure used in both our Micronized Creatine Monohydrate formula and NOK2, an advanced Nitric Oxide stimulator. These tests verified that Creapure is manufactured in a plant in Germany that meets the highest standards in quality, safety and effectiveness.

The notification from the manufacturers of Creapure further substantiated that Creapure also does not contain detectable levels of melamine, a potentially toxic chemical.

To find out more about Creapure, check out their website here.

http://www.creapure.com/

Can Running Make You High?

2008-04-14T11:47:00.004-04:00

Everyone has heard of the term 'Runner's high', but is there any truth to it?

For some time now many have speculated about the theory behind the 'runner's high' but there was no scientific proof to back this up. Until now. Research conducted in Germany confirm that there is some truth behind the 'high' runners experience. Apparently, running creates a flood of endorphins (the hormones that make you feel happy) to the brain.

This study, which was conducted at the University of Bonn (in Germany), scanned long-distance runners with an imaging technology prior to a long run. They compared the composition of endorphins to opiates (which are blocked when more endorphins are produced). These images were compared pre and post run.

The researchers found the runners felt significantly happier after running. The images also showed that after running the endorphins were released in areas of the brain which usually suppress pain.

So, for all those who think marathon runners are crazy maybe there is a reason for the insanity. This research shows that runners are right on track to feeling happier and experiencing less pain overall.

This just provides fuel to the fire that getting active not only helps you look better but it will improve your mood too helping you feel better from the inside out and it doesn't get much better than that!

Source: Medical News Today

High Protein Sweet Potato Pie

2008-04-11T12:49:00.003-04:00

Protein powder isn't just for shakes. You can increase the protein content of many recipes by being creative and experimenting. This recipe takes a traditional Sweet Potato Pie recipe and converts it into a healthy one that's low in fat and high in protein.

Sweet potatoes or yams, are nutritionally dense and an excellent carbohydrate choice that will fill you up while providing a ton of nutrients. They are an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, folic acid and potassium, carotenoids and copper. They are also high in fiber; a medium sweet potato contains 4 grams of fiber.

Ingredients:

1 scoop Vanilla ISOFLEX protein powder
1 large sweet potato, grated
1 tsp. cinnamon
4 egg whites
1 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. splenda

Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350F.

2. Blend all ingredients thoroughly in a medium bowl.

3. Pour batter into baking pan, lined with tin foil.

4. Bake in oven 50 to 55 min., or until brown and crispy.

5. Let cool before consuming.

Nutrition facts per serving:Calories: 341, Protein: 38g (152 cal), Fat: 1g (9 cal), Carbs: 45g (180 cal)

What the Heck is HIIT?

2008-04-10T11:54:00.005-04:00

Do you think getting cut and lean takes hour upon hour of redundant cardio? Well, recent research is showing this is not the case. It's been found that high inensity interval training, or HIIT can actually burn more adipose tissue more effectively than low-intensity exercise can for a longer period.

A study conducted at Laval University in Quebec, Canada found that those who trained with HIIT experienced 9 x greater fat loss than those who did long bouts of slow cardio.

HIIT is a form of cardio that when performed correctly will help to speed up the metabolism during exercise and will keep the metabolism elevated throughout the day. During this type of interval training the body goes into an elevated Excess Post Exercise Oxygen Consumption Rate (EPOC). What this means is the body burns more calories at rest than it does simply doing slow and steady cardio sessions.

Essentially, HIIT involves intervals of varying intensities for a short period of time. Each high intensity interval is generally followed by a lower-paced one for recovery.

The key component to HIIT training is that it should be performed at an extremely intense level. These bouts of 'all-out' training are followed by an interval of active recovery.
HIIT is a form of anaerobic exercise and can be extremely demanding on the body. It is not recommended to perform this type of cardio any more than 3 times a week.

Sample Workout
- choose any piece of cardio equipment that you enjoy
Warm-up: 5 min.
Intervals: 10 sprints @ high intensity for 30 seconds
10 x 1 minute active recovery
Cool-down: 3 min.

Sleep Deprived Babies More Likely to be Overweight

2008-04-08T11:03:00.003-04:00

A recent study conducted at Harvard University and published in the April issue of the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine found that babies who don't get enough sleep may gain more weight than their sleep sufficient counterparts. The study found babies and toddlers who slept less than 12 hours a day have an increased risk of being overweight as a child.

The study also investigated the affect watching television may have on weight gain and found the combination of less than 12 hours of sleep a night and watching more than 2 hours of TV a day increased a toddler's chances of being overweight by 16%!

Although this study was conducted on children, the correlation between lack of sleep and weight gain tends to be consistent with all age groups. A study conducted at the University of Chicago found that adults who lacked sleep were more likely to gain weight and have cravings for unhealthy choices.

For those who have problems falling asleep or sleeping soundly through the night, Somnatrol is a powerful formula that has been designed to promote a restful night’s sleep. It is formulated with natural supplements which have all been found to promote relaxation and provide a calming feeling. It is a two-stage natural sleep formula that can effectively promote relaxation and provide a restful night’s sleep.