2008 June | Complete Diet Info

West Africa Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

Within West Africa, there is considerable variation in the staple food. Rice is predominant from Mauritania to Liberia and across to the Sahel, a region that stretches across the continent between the Sahara and the southern savannas. Couscous is the prevalent dish in the Sahara. Along the coast from Coôte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to Nigeria and Cameroon, root crops, primarily varieties of yam and cassava, are common. Cassava, imported from Brazil by the Portuguese, is boiled and then pounded into a nearly pure starch. Yam is the chief crop in West Africa and is served in a variety of dishes, including amala (pounded yam) and egwansi (melon) sauce. Millet is also used for making porridge or beer.

Palm oil is the base of stew in the Gambia, southern, and eastern regions. In the Sahalian area, groundnut paste (peanut butter) is the main ingredient for stew. Other stews are based on okra (a vegetable native to the rainforests of Africa), beans, sweet potato leaves, or cassava. Other vegetables are eggplant, cabbage, carrots, chilies, french beans, lettuce, okra, onions, and cherry tomatoes. All the stews in this territory tend to be heavily spiced, often with chilies.

West African Fruit. Plantain, a variety of banana, is abundant in the more tropical West Africa. Sweet plantains are normally fried, while hard plantains are boiled or pounded into fufu Dates, bananas, guava, melons, passionfruit, figs, jackfruit, mangos, pineapples, cashews, and wild lemons and oranges are also found here.

Protein Sources. Meat sources of protein include cattle, sheep, chicken, and goat, though beef is normally reserved for holidays and special occasions. Fish is eaten in the coastal areas. Because of the Islamic influence, pork is localized to non-Muslim areas. In these regions, “bush meat” is widely eaten, including bush rat, a large herbivorous rodent, antelope, and monkey. Giant snails are also eaten in various parts of West Africa.

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North Africa Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

The countries of North Africa that border the Mediterranean Sea are largely Muslim countries. As a result, their diet reflects Islamic traditions. The religion of Islam does not permit eating pork or any animal product that has not been butchered in accordance with the traditions of the faith. Like other regions of Africa, much of the diet is based on grains. However, cooking with olive oil, onions, and garlic is more common in the countries of North Africa. Notable spices include cumin, caraway, clove, and cinnamon. Flat breads are a common staple and can accompany any meal, including breakfast, which is usually porridge

prepared from millet or chickpea flour. Couscous (made from hard wheat and millet) is often the main dish at lunch, which is the primary meal. This may be accompanied by vegetable salads. Other main dishes include tajine, named for the conical clay pot in which a whole meal is prepared. Lamb is cooked in tajines as well as on kabobs (roasted on a skewer). Vegetables include okra, meloukhia (spinach-like greens), and radishes. Common fruits are oranges, lemons, pears, and mandrakes. Legumes such as broad beans (fava beans), lentils, yellow peas, and black-eyed peas are also important staples. Alcoholic drinks are forbidden by Islamic tradition. Mint tea and coffee are very popular beverages in this region.

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Introduction of African Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

Throughout Africa, the main meal of the day is lunch, which usually consists of a mixture of vegetables, legumes, and sometimes meat. However, though different meats are considered staples in many areas, many Africans are not able to eat meat often, due to economic constraints. Beef, goat, and sheep (mutton) are quite expensive in Africa, so these foods are reserved for special days. However, fish is abundant in coastal regions and in many lakes.

The combination of various foods is called stew, soup, or sauce, depending on the region. This mixture is then served over a porridge or mash made from a root vegetable such as cassava or a grain such as rice, corn, millet, or teff. Regional differences are reflected in variations on this basic meal, primarily in the contents of the stew. The greatest variety of ingredients occurs in coastal areas and in the fertile highlands. Flavorings and spiciness have varied principally due to local histories of trade. In the traditional African diet, meat and fish are not the focus of a meal, but are instead used to enhance the stew that accompanies the mash or porridge. Meat is rarely eaten, though it is well-liked among carnivorous (meat-eating) Africans.

Traditional Cooking Methods. Traditional ways of cooking involve steaming food in leaf wrappers (banana or corn husks), boiling, frying in oil, grilling beside a fire, roasting in a fire, or baking in ashes. Africans normally cook outdoors or in a building separate from the living quarters. African kitchens commonly have a stew pot sitting on three stones arranged around a fire. In Africa, meals are normally eaten with the hands.

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Research and Future of Acne Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

Early studies about diet and acne focused on specific foods believed to trigger acne breakouts. Most of these studies found no evidence that individual foods cause acne.

Studies of the diets of ethnic groups that have a low incidence of acne form the basis of most of the acne diets. Studies of the diets of tribes in New Guinea, Paraguay, and the Bantu of South Africa, all of whom have little or no acne, show that they eat a primarily plant-based diet. Similarly, in other countries where the diet is plant-based such as Japan, there is a relatively low occurrence of acne.

Studies have shown that half of acne patients tested had abnormal glucose levels, and in another study, 80%of premenstrual women with acne had abnormal glucose metabolism These data and others that show a high carbohydrate diet increases the levels of testosterone in the blood of both men and women, have lead to the recommendation of reducing the amount high carbohydrate foods or foods containing high levels of refined sugar to treat acne.

Researchers have developed a method for measuring how quickly carbohydrates are converted into glucose. The more rapidly a food is converted to glucose, the higher the level of insulin is secreted into the blood. The scale is called the glycemic index. Eating lower glycemic index foods may help reduce the number and severity of acne breakouts.

A large study of over 45,000 nurses found a link between the amount of dairy products these women consumed and the severity of acne they experienced. Women who reported consuming higher amounts of dairy products reported more severe acne. Similarly, the two ethnic groups with little or no acne also consumed no dairy products.

Several studies have compared the results of zinc supplementation with oral antibiotic therapy to resolved acne and found zinc to be almost as effective as the antibiotic tetracycline.

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Function of Acne Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

Opinions vary in the medical community as to whether or not diet plays a significant role in acne. Some common misconceptions about the connection between food and acne breakouts have been disproved. For example, according to several studies, chocolate does not cause acne.. Acne is caused when glands in the

Opinions vary in the medical community as to whether or not diet plays a significant role in acne. Some common misconceptions about the connection between food and acne breakouts have been disproved. For example, according to several studies, chocolate does not cause acne.. Acne is caused when glands in the skin called sebaceous glands begin to form sticky oil called sebum. These glands are stimulated by hormones that become active at puberty which is why acne occurs most often in adolescence when these hormones are produced in abundance. The oils formed by the sebaceous glands hold dead skin cells preventing them form being sloughed off. As these cells die, they create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. When these bacteria called Acne Vulgaris become too plentiful, they will attempt to erupt from the skin causing a pimple. Sometimes, when the bacteria grow, the body sends white blood cells to fight the infection. This natural reaction can cause painful, large cysts to form in the deeper layers of skin. Chocolate may not cause acne, but the fat and sugar that usually accompanies chocolate may.

Eliminating certain foods from the diet and increasing the amount of specific vitamins and minerals may help reduce the amount of sebum produced and prevent acne breakouts. However, the interaction between diet and acne is not a simple cause and effect relationship. If an oily food is eaten, the oil does not travel to the skin or cause it to be oily, but high levels of fat in the blood may effect the production of hormones such as testosterone. Higher levels of hormones may cause acne to worsen.

Many high carbohydrate foods are believed to worsen acne. Researchers have discovered that high carbohydrate foods increase the levels of insulin in the blood. High levels of insulin can raise hormone levels in the blood.

Researchers recognize that not all carbohydrates are bad. Some carbohydrates digest more slowly than others, causing a gradual rise in blood sugar after eating. Researchers have developed a glycemic index to rank carbohydrates and other foods according to the effect they have on blood sugar.

The glycemic index is a scale of 0–100. Foods with higher glycemic index ratings break down quickly and cause a sharp spike in blood sugar. When blood sugar rises quickly, the body produces a surge of insulin to lower the amount of glucose in the blood. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body take sugar (glucose) out of the bloodstream and put it into cells, where it can be used for energy or stored in fat. Foods with lower glycemic index ratings break down more slowly. They cause a more gradual rise in blood sugar, which means less insulin will be needed.

Foods that have a high glycemic index rating include: white bread, white rice, white potatoes depending on how they are cooked, beer, corn products and some products containing refined sugars. Foods with moderate glycemic index ratings include: whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice, sweet potatoes, green peas, many fruits (especially when eaten alone) and yogurt. Many of these foods are on the list of foods to avoid in the acne diet.

Low glycemic index or no GI foods include: rye grain, nuts, legumes such as black beans and lentils, green vegetables, apricots, and cherries. These foods may be enjoyed an may not worsen acne.

Foods that are high in fiber tend to have lower glycemic index numbers, because fiber takes longer to digest. Studies have shown that the presence of other foods such as fats like olive oil, can also slow digestion and keep blood sugar from rising too quickly. The glycemic index can be used along with the acne diet, to help choose which carbohydrates can be eaten with the least effect on blood sugar.

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What is Acne Diet?

Posted on 18 June 2008
Tags: Acne Diet

Definition

The acne diet or more accurately, the acne-free diet, is simply a way of eating claims to improves or eliminates acne. There is some debate in the medical community about the impact of diet on acne; however, there is a body of evidence to support the idea that what is eaten may affect the skin.

By reviewing research from over 40 years, doctors such as dermatologist, Dean Goodless have developed a set of recommendations regarding foods that may prevent acne. In his book The Acne-Free Diet Plan, Dr. Goodless presents his recommendations. He suggests eating a diet low in fat and high in fiber along with avoiding peanut product, fried foods, excessive salt, dairy products, foods that are high in refined sugars, and high carbohydrate foods.

Origins

As long as people have had pimples, there have been attempts to clear them up quickly or prevent them all together. Most cultures have folk remedies to help clear the skin. It wasn’t until the last 50 years that serious scientific research has been conducted to confirm or disprove these folk tales and myths. One of the earliest studies about food and acne focused on chocolate. This study found that chocolate did not increase acne breakouts. Other studies since have confirmed this finding.

For the most part, acne treatment has been the emphasis of research; however, there have been isolated studies that explored the effect of specific vitamin and mineral supplements on acne. Other studies have investigated ethnic groups and communities from the

Possible causes of acne

The hormone increase in teenage years (this can cause the oil glands to plug up more often)
Hormone changes during pregnancy
Starting or stopping birth control pills
Heredity
Some types of medicine
Greasy makeup

Pacific Islands to Africa where there is little or no incidence of acne, even during puberty. When the diets of these people are compared to the typical Western diet, there are nutritionally significant differences. The ethnic groups with very low incidence of acne ate predominately plant-based diets that were low in fat and virtually sugar-free. The typical Western diet is heavy in meats, saturated fat, refined sugar, and highly processed foods. By studying these differences, doctors and researchers have developed suggestions for dietary changes to improve or eliminate acne.

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Precautions and Risks of ABS Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

Precautions

Overall, the diet is healthy and poses no known dangers. Some of the items listed in the 12 power foods can contain high amounts of sodium, such as canned and frozen vegetables, instant oatmeal, and peanut butter. People who want to limit salt intake or who have high blood pressure may want to avoid these food. Since exercise is a main component of the diet, people with arthritis or back, knee, or other joint problems should discuss the diet with their physicians before starting exercise. People who are allergic to peanuts or nuts should avoid food containing these products.

The diet does not address if it is suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Menus in the book do not have meatless options. However, eight of the 12 power foods do not contain meat or animal products. All of the protein required in the diet can be obtained by adding more beans and legumes to the diet and replacing meat with soy protein sources, such as tofu and meat substitutes that are high in protein. Brands

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR

Am I healthy enough to do the exercise routine required on the Abs Diet?
Will I need any dietary supplements if I adopt the Abs Diet?
Do you see any health risks for me in the diet?
Are there any other diets you would recommend that would help me accomplish my goals?
Have you treated other patients who are on the Abs Diet?If so, what has their response to the diet been?

Morningstar Farms, Boca, and Gardenburger make meatless burgers, hot dogs, chicken breasts and strips, and other items.

Risks

Since the diet includes a rigorous and regular exercise program, people with heart disease or certain other health problems should consult their physicians before going on the diet. Men with erectile dysfunction should discuss their condition with their physicians, urologists, or endocrinologists. Also, one of the 12 power foods is nuts, so people with peanut or other nut allergies should eliminate or modify the nut component of the diet.

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Function and Benefits of ABS Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

The primary purpose of the Abs diet is to help people, especially men, develop a lean, flat, and hard stomach—referred to in fitness circles as a ‘six-pack’— and to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. The diet is designed to promote a longer and healthier life by helping prevent cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other diseases. These diseases are more prevalent in overweight and obese people compared to people who maintain a normal or below normal weight. The diet is also designed to promote a healthier sex life in men since some of the causes of erectile dysfunction are obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

Benefits

Excessive fat, especially around the belly, is a major risk factor for heart disease, high blood pressure, high LDL (bad cholesterol), diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and other diseases. By reducing or elimination excess body fat, people can live healthier and longer lives. The health benefits increase when regular exercise is added. People on the Abs diet can expect to lose up to 12 pounds in the first two weeks followed by 5–8 pounds in the next two weeks, according to Juliette Kellow, a registered dietician who reviews diets for the Website Weight Loss Resources (<http://www.weightlossresources.co.uk >).

Most diets include cardiovascular (aerobic) exercise as part of a weight loss routine. Studies have shown that people who engage in aerobic exercise burn more calories than people who did strength training, or weightlifting. However, additional research indicates that the fat-burning metabolic effects of aerobic exercise lasts 30–60 minutes while the metabolic effect of strength training lasts up to 48 hours. Also, the Abs diet promotes increased muscle mass, which increases metabolism so that the body burns up to 50 calories per day for every pound of muscle. So adding 10 pounds of muscle can burn up to 500 extra calories each day.

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Exercise for ABS Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008
Tags: Exercise

Adequate exercise is as important as good nutrition in losing fat and flattening the stomach in the Abs diet. It includes strength training three times a week, abdominal exercises two or three days a week, and optional aerobic exercises two or three times a week. There are three basic principles to the exercise program: leave at least 48 hours between weights workouts of the same body part; do no exercises one day a week; and warm up for five minutes before exercising by jogging lightly, riding a stationary bike, jumping rope, or doing jumping jacks. There are three components of the plan that target different types of exercise:

Strength training—Total-body workouts three days a week, with one workout placing extra emphasis on the leg muscles.
Cardiovascular exercises—Do these twice a week in-between strength training days. Activities include cycling, running, swimming, brisk walking, and stair climbing.
Abdominal (ab) exercises—Do ab exercises two or three times a week, before strength training workouts.

GETTING STARTED. People who are not already.

exercising should do light strengthening exercises three days a week for the first two weeks. One sample routine is to alternate between three sets of eight to 10 pushups and three sets of 15–20 squats with no weights. Rest for one minute between sets. When it Page 3 becomes easy to do 10 or more pushups and 20 or more squats, increase the number of pushups and add weights to the squats, using either a barbell or dumbbells. The weights routine should be followed by 30 minutes of brisk walking.

People who already exercise regularly should consider switching from their current workout routine to the Abs diet workout for at least the first few weeks, according to Zinczenko. For maximum results, it is best to change the workout routine every month to keep the body from adapting to a repetitious routine that can slow muscle development. The Abs diet suggests the basic workout be done on Mondays and Wednesdays, starting with one set of an ab exercise from each of the five categories of abdominal regions. Follow this with two circuits of one set of the core exercises in the order listed. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, do 20–30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise. On Friday, do the Monday through Wednesday workout but instead of the ab exercises, traveling lunges, 10–12 reps, and step-ups, 10–12 reps each leg. Do two complete circuits

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Description of ABS Diet

Posted on 18 June 2008

The Abs diet developer David Zinczenko says it will allow people to lose weight—primarily fat—while developing a leaner abdomen and increasing muscle tone, strength, general health, and sexual health. The diet has two components: exercise and nutrition.

There are six general guidelines that are the basic principles of the diet. These are: eat six meals a day, drink smoothies regularly, know what to drink and what not to; do not count calories; eat anything you want for one meal a week; and focus on the Abs diet twelve power foods.

The diet strongly recommends its followers eat six meals a day since it helps to maintain what researchers call an energy balance. This is the number of calories burned in an hour versus the number of calories taken in. Georgia State University researchers found that if the hourly surplus or deficit of calories is 300–500 at any given time, the body is most susceptible to burning fat and building lean muscle mass. To stay within this range, Zinczenko recommends the following daily meal schedule: breakfast, mid-morning snack, lunch, mid-afternoon snack, dinner, and evening snack.

Another guideline is to drink smoothies regularly in place of a meal or snack. Smoothies are mixtures of low-fat milk and yogurt with ingredients such as ice, protein powder, fruits, and peanut butter, that are prepared in a blender. Although there are no definitive studies, some researchers suggest that the calcium in the milk and yogurt helps to burn body fat and restricts the amount of fat produced by the body.

A third guideline details what to drink and not drink. Drinking eight glasses of water daily is recommended. The benefits of 64-oz of water are that it helps to alleviate hunger pangs, it flushes waste products from the body, and it delivers nutrients to muscles. Other acceptable drinks are low-fat milk, green tea, and no more than two glasses of diet soda a day. Alcohol is not recommended at all since it does not help to make a person feel full. It also decreases by one-third the body’s ability to burn fat and makes the body store more of the fat from food. In addition, it decreases production of testosterone and human growth hormone that help burn fat and increase muscle mass.

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Posted on 18 June 2008
Tags: Acne Diet

Definition

Origins

Possible causes of acne

Precautions

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR

Risks

Benefits

Posted on 18 June 2008
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