The dreaded middle age spread or pot belly!!

Many of my clients come to me with the same problem. They hit their late 30’s / early 40’s and suddenly they cannot shift those extra pounds. Especially around their middle which used to easily disappear after a bit of dieting and exercise.
 

Only in the last number of years have researchers been able to explain what causes a pot belly. This protrusion is technically called visceral fat (which means that it relates to the internal organs) and it is very difficult to shift due to the fact that it has the ability to protect itself from destruction. 

Scientists now say that this visceral fat can actually take on a life of its own. This type of fat can produce many substances especially deadly small proteins that can cause inflammation and can be blamed for a number of problems from heart disease to arthritis.

The main causes of this visceral fat are down to the consumption of sugar, stress and their effect on the hormonal and metabolic changes that take place within the body.

So how do I get rid of this pot belly - diet changes….you had to know that there was no way around this one!! Also, exercise – high intensity exercise, gets rid of visceral fat more quickly that any other body fat. 

For more a more detailed plan on how to tackle your pot belly issues, please get in touch with me to set up a consultation.

Tips to reduce sugar addiction

Are you a sugar addict? Do you suffer from nagging headaches and mood changes?

 

Sugar hides in many foods. It is in low fat foods, packaged foods, some tinned foods as well as many so called health foods. The problem for many people is that it is not just sugar that you need to worry about it is also refined carbohydrates such as white bread and flour products which produce the same reaction as sugar in your body. 

The good news is that you can do something to break this habit, increase energy, concentration levels, reduce weight and you may also find that your mood improves too.

Why is sugar so bad for you?

High consumption of sugar leads to obesity, diabetes and dental cavities. Researchers have also linked high sugar consumption to poor immune health, poor skin health, headaches, brain-fog, PMS, blood sugar conditions, fatigue, irritability and often hyperactive behavior in children.

What happens when you consume sugar?

When you consume sugar or refined carbohydrates your blood sugar level will spike. Your body will produce insulin in an effort to stabilize your blood sugar levels which bring blood sugar levels down, when you feel low you then crave more sugar which sends you on another high and so begins the cycle of fluctuating blood sugar levels.

Combat the sugar cravings by -

Protein: - Eat protein at every meal. Vegetarians need to particularly be careful to ensure they are eating adequate levels of protein by increasing their intake of eggs, cheese and dairy.

Carbohydrates - A major part of your daily carbohydrates should come from fruits and vegetables. Other carbohydrates consumed should be unprocessed whole grains, which are released slowly into the blood stream and hence curb your sugar cravings.

 

Drinks - Limit caffeinated drinks, as caffeine can cause dehydration and blood sugar swings too.

Keep hydrated, aim for at least eight glasses of fresh water daily.

How healthy is your liver?

The liver is one of the largest working organs in your body. When it is not functioning properly an array of health problems can result including high cholesterol, fatigue, hormone imbalance and an inability to lose weight. Taking care of your liver can put you on the path to optimum health and well being.

Everyday your body is exposed to a multitude of toxins through the food you eat, water, alcohol and coffee you drink, polluted air you breathe as well as the chemicals you put on your skin and hair daily. The liver’s role is to filter these toxic substances from your blood so they can be eliminated from your body. The liver plays a vital role in metabolism, it’s the major fat burning organ of the body and regulates fat metabolism. It also plays an important role in regulating cholesterol levels, and helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Signs of liver dysfunction

If the liver becomes overloaded with toxins or deficient in essential nutrients, detoxification will be affected. This will result in toxins being pushed back into the blood stream, which may cause- 

• Inability or difficulty in losing weight
• Weakened immune function
• Digestive problems or abdominal bloating
• Poor skin health and skin conditions
• Sluggish metabolism
• Elevated cholesterol
• Mood swings
• Menopausal symptoms and PMS
• Sugar cravings
• Bad breath or coated tongue
• Dark circles under eyes
• Unstable blood sugar levels

If you experience any of these symptoms then I would recommend that you take action to improve your diet and lifestyle. Over the coming weeks, through this blog I will make suggestions in regards to what action to take.