That's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.comThat's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.com/media/feedlogo.gifThat's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.comen-usCopyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Fit Buzz: What's Your Best Lean and Green Tip?http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/23/fit-buzz-whats-your-best-lean-and-green-tip/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/23/fit-buzz-whats-your-best-lean-and-green-tip/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/23/fit-buzz-whats-your-best-lean-and-green-tip/#commentsFiled under:

lying on grassWelcome to Fit Buzz, our new column that follows the diet and fitness buzz. Each week we'll ask our users, fans and followers a question and gather the answers from around the Internet. Stay tuned for weekly updates!

What's your best lean and green tip?

Here's what our readers are saying:

Michaelanne B.
[Get] a stainless steel water bottle - no worries about BPA or other chemicals in the plastics

Maria G.
Already have [a reusable water bottle]...a big one that reminds me I need to drink about 2 liters of water daily (per a kidney specialist).

Elaine E.
I've been using stainless steel for years. love it. so easy to use and clean. no plastic for me!!!

Nancy L.
Yard work...makes the landscape beautiful AND is a great workout!

Mary W.
There are lots of options when you make [lunch] at home that are healthy. Turkey or Tuna sandwiches on whole grain bread - use just a smidge of mayo & the rest some sort of tasty mustard or dijon - half sandwich & some fruit or homemade soup (so you can control the sodium level). Use sandwich wraps for a change loaded with veggies & a drizzle of EVOO & mustard of some sort. Big veggie salad with or without chicken, tuna or turkey in it - drizzle of EVOO & some Mrs Dashes Lemon & Pepper sprinkle. If you have a snack in late afternoon - which you should - plain non-fat yogurt with frozen blueberries, 1/2 small banana & teaspoon of molasses - mix it, let the blueberries defrost for about 10 - 15 minutes & it's every bit as good as the fruit yogurts you buy - but cheaper & better nutritionally. Keep fruit & veggies handy in frig so you can grab & go. Trust me... once you get in the habit of it it's no big deal & you'll save money too!!

Joyce M.
I live in Oregon where electricity is relatively inexpensive. We turn off lights too. Recycle. reuse, and compost our garbage. We use the compost for our garden.

Lori Schumacher
Ran 3 miles on the jogging path at the nearby university.

Rhiannon C.
Taking my over grown 80 pound "puppy" for a "walk". which she doesn't know the definition of.

Barbara R.
Off to do a planting project with my favorite Special Ed class! A little learning about the earth, a lot of fun playing in the dirt! :-)

Sue M.
Walk everywhere or public transport if really necessary.

Joyce P.
My bike is in the shop for 2 days now. I wore out the bearings. I ride 10 miles nearly every day for recreation, its a 3 wheeler because i have arthritis and bad knees.. Having a 3 wheeler is great because if I get tired I can just sit and rest.

April E.
Went for a bike ride with the hubby and the 1yr old! Beautiful morning. I'm off to buy corn gluten for my lawn instead of chemicals, and what else? Oh, reusable bags for the grocery stores. Fun day today!

Here are some more great ways to stay lean and green. Check out our top picks for fabulous workout gear from sustainable companies.

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]]>earthdaygreenleanHilary WalkeFri, 23 Apr 2010 10:00:00 ESTEarth Day Tips: How to Be Lean and Greenhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/earth-day-tips-how-to-be-lean-and-green/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/earth-day-tips-how-to-be-lean-and-green/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/earth-day-tips-how-to-be-lean-and-green/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gorgeously GreenIf you're trying to get healthier while being kind to the earth, you're not alone. To help you on your way, That's Fit spoke with green diet and fitness expert Sophie Uliano, author of "The Gorgeously Green Diet." From green fitness tips to must-know guidelines about eating meat, Uliano offers suggestions to help your health and the planet.

That's Fit: What's your number one green tip?

Sophie Uliano: Pick just one change that you want to make this year. Commit to it on Earth Day and write it down. I believe that small steps make a big difference, so it can be something as simple as committing to take reusable bags to the grocery store or taking a reusable coffee mug with you to work. Your small change will inspire others to do the same.

TF: If you're in pretty good shape but want to find a way to combine green with lean, what are some good ways to get started?

SU: In my experience, eco-friendly/green eating paves the way for either losing weight or maintaining one's ideal weight. By eating minimally processed foods, without the added flavors, preservatives, fats, sugars and salt, most people will shed a few pounds immediately. I recommend starting slowly, as you want it to become more a way of life than a diet. Cooking from scratch is the first order of the day -- that way you can easily control exactly what is in the foods you eat. It also sends a message to the food industry that you want less convenience/processed foods and more wonderful fresh foods. Green and lean are inextricably linked.

TF: How do you introduce organic foods into your diet?

SU: Make a list of the foods that you and your family consume the most of. If they are dairy products like milk and cheese, then that would be a great place to start. If you consume soy products everyday (soy milk, protein bars) then perhaps you'll commit to only buying organic soy products. I recommend always looking for the USDA green and white organic stamp, as you want to make sure that your organic food has been stamped with a certification label, which is third party verified.

As far as produce is concerned, know the "Gorgeously Green" top 10 items to buy organic, and you can buy the rest conventional.

Top 10 to-buy organic: (descending order of importance)

1. Strawberries
2. Peaches
3. Nectarines
4. Pears
5. Apples
6. Celery
7. Sweet Bell Peppers
8. Potatoes
9. Spinach
10. Lettuce

TF: If you don't want to be a vegan/veggie, how can you be more eco-friendly in your approach to eating meat?

SU: Just don't eat meat every day. It's surprisingly easy to cut down on meat and it's a win-win, as it's much better for your health to cut down considerably on the amount of meat you consume. If you're a die-hard carnivore, perhaps cut down to every other day, then work your way to down to just eating meat twice a week.

The key is quality. You want to buy meat that's organic. If it's certified organic, it means that it will not have been treated with hormones, antibiotics or preservatives of any kind. Organic meat can be twice the price, so it makes sense to have it as a treat. Here's how to make your meat go further and how to substitute with "meaty" veggie alternatives.

Look for:
  • "Certified humane raised and handled" if you care about animal welfare. Check out their Web site.
  • "Certified Organic" by USDA
Don't be misled by:
  • "Free Range," which could simply mean that a small door was opened in a huge factory farm, ostensibly giving the animal "outside access."
  • "Fresh" means very little -- just that the meat has not been frozen below 26 degrees F.
  • "Raised without antibiotics." This is only somewhat meaningful, as there is no third party verification for this label.

TF: How can you help the earth while exercising?

SU: You can easily exercise in a more eco-friendly way. Here are some tips:
  • Buy a reusable water bottle to take to the gym.
  • Purchase an eco-friendly yoga mat.
  • See if you can find organic workout clothes (such as Patagonia and Prana).
  • Exercise outside in the summer months: Hiking, running, brisk walking and cycling.
  • Choose a gym that's really close to home.
  • Pick out a couple of really great exercise DVD to do at home or on the road. I love The Bar Method and A Kettle Bell Workout.
  • Get in the yard and start digging. Vigorous yard work will get you and your garden into shape.
Want some more great green tips? Check out these three cool ways to celebrate Earth Day with your family.

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]]>Earth Dayeco-friendlyfitnessGorgeously GreengreenleanorganicHilary WalkeThu, 22 Apr 2010 15:00:00 ESTFit Links: Stay Green This Earth Dayhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/fit-links-stay-green-this-earth-day/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/fit-links-stay-green-this-earth-day/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/fit-links-stay-green-this-earth-day/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just because you're an athlete doesn't mean you can't spend a few minutes to take care of the environment. The choices you make from the shoes you buy to where you train can reduce your carbon footprint. In honor of Earth Day, we're bringing you Greendaily's best fitness-related stories to help you streamline your workout schedule. Enjoy!

Which Shoes Are the Most Green?
Many businesses have slapped on a superficial mask of environmentalism, but few have taken the initiative to truly "go green." These shoe companies are genuine innovators, fashioning quality shoes for any and all athletes. Read more.

Top 5 Tips to Make Your Workout More Green
From buying green dish detergents to eating less meat, there are a million ways to green your life. Here are the five top ways to ensure that your workout makes as much sense for the planet as it does your quads and triceps. Read more.

Machines Powered by You
Some gyms already have machines you can power with your own sweat. Now that's motivation to do an extra lap or two around the virtual track! Read more.

Edward Norton Runs for the Environment
You already know Edward Norton is a cool guy. But did you know he ran a marathon for the environment? Read more.

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]]>earth dayedward nortonfit-linksgreen exercisegreen fitnessgreen shoesAmber GreviskesThu, 22 Apr 2010 12:00:00 ESTFabulous Fitness Gear From Sustainable Companieshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/fitness-gear-from-sustainable-companies/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/fitness-gear-from-sustainable-companies/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/22/fitness-gear-from-sustainable-companies/#commentsFiled under: , ,

yoga jacketAlthough many would argue the ultimate act of going green is to consume less, when you do head to the store (and we all do) it is worthwhile to make sure your dollars go to companies that support a sustainable planet and its people.

One of the most obvious companies in the fitness realm is Patagonia. We've all seen the American Express commercial in which Patagonia's founder Yvon Chouinard talks about how closely tied the company is to nature.

The great news is, though they might be the best known, Patagonia is far from the only company that makes a real, tangible effort toward being eco-friendly. In honor of Earth Day, That's Fit has rounded up 11 companies that focus on sustainability and sell sports and fitness-related products from hats and mats to shorts and shoes so your next purchase can be as good for the earth as it is for you.

Kids
Knüetes invented the Doubleglove, which allows you to hold hands through your mittens (brilliant!). They have a great selection of kids outdoor accessories. They're both environmentally and socially conscious, utilizing local manufacturers and fabrics from Malden Mills, which are made from primarily recycled content. Take, for example, the Polartec 300 Recycled Fleece: It's made of at least 89 percent recycled fibers comprised of former PET bottles.

Clothes
Shabby Apple is a company much-beloved by fashionistas with a conscience because of the company's fair-trade practices and fashion-forward clothing. Now, they've launched a new line called Blossom, where fit meets feminine. We'd like to meet this half-zip jacket.

Nau, the sister company of Horny Toad, truly embodies what it means to be eco-friendly. They maintain 75 percent sustainability across all of their lines, use the labor watch dog group Verite to monitor all of their overseas factories, purchase carbon offsets for all their shipping actions, give 2 percent of all purchases to charity (and allows customers to allocate their 2 percent to a charity of their choice), and every single item they produce is fully recyclable! That's Fit is particularly fond of the Stylus Pant -- a girl can't ever have too many yoga pants, right?

Thriv takes it back to basics, offering simple styles that really perform with moisture wicking, UV ray protection and odor blocking technology in the fabric the founders invented called BamCo, a natural bamboo and organic cotton blend. And because we can't get enough comfy, cotton-y pants, our pick here would have to be the Boca Cropped Pant (Sometimes it's just too hot for full-length yoga pants!)

Sometimes, though, simple doesn't cut it, which is where the TerraFrog Frogaliscious Funky Back Tank comes in. TerraFrog purchases wind power, supports the Pembina Institute (which helps fund the research and development of effective strategies to reduce the environmental impact of conventional energy), manufactures everything in Canada (where they're located, although they ship to the U.S.) and uses recycled materials in shipping, packaging and wherever possible.

Shoes
Ahnu Footwear walks the walk in three ways: By using sustainable materials in its product line, remaining committed to manufacturing its products only at eco-minded and socially responsible factories and by donating a portion of its proceeds to environmentally focused charities. This is especially great because the company offers great casual shoes, but also some pretty cool sneakers, like the Sequoia.

For Pilates, yoga, hiking and more, we're digging the funky foot coverings by kigo. The company is environmentally friendly from the ground up, utilizing technology to minimize commuting. The footwear uppers, lining and packaging are made of recycled elements including CYCLEPET -- plastic jugs are cleaned and broken down to create a fabric that combines strength and softness.

You don't have to totally discount the big guys, either. Take, for example, Nike. They've launched Nike Considered Design with the focus of creating performance products that have a far smaller footprint because the waste is reduced throughout the design and development process and environmentally preferred materials are used. We love supporting the small companies that are green through and through, but we're also a fan of supporting the sustainable initiatives the big guys make.

Accessories
Yoga Life Style offers a variety of yoga clothing and accessories while actively taking all environmental aspects of their products into consideration. From organic cotton clothing to certified zero emissions yoga mats and bolsters stuffed with organic buckwheat fill, they have plenty to offer. Additionally, Yoga Life Style is 100 percent vegan and aspires to soon be entirely environmentally neutral.

Naturally, you need something to carry your yoga mat with, too, which is where the Yogoco yoga bag is handy. Each beautifully colored and patterned bag (check out Buddha's Garden!) is made from pre-consumer t-shirt scraps. Plus, it not only holds your yoga bag, but also keeps everything else you need in a separate compartment.

A great non-yoga bag option is a non-toxic, PVC-free one from Ecogear -- specifically, the Earth Ocean backpack. The company was created because the founder wanted to do something to make the earth a better place for his children and a backpack made of recycled PET bottles is a good place to start! We can't lie, though -- we're also kind of partial to the adorable Ecozoo bags made of natural cotton and rope and recycled plastic, using non-toxic dyes, in shapes like puppies and pandas. For kids, of course. (Or maybe for ourselves.)

And finally, because showering is far from the most eco-friendly part of your workout, you might want to check out Action Wipes. These are full body wipes that use only natural ingredients, so they're safe for you and the planet. They're also a product of Life Elements as well as a member of 1% For The Planet, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and Green America.

In addition to doing every day things to reduce their footprint (like lowering the thermostat and using reusable bags for shopping), the company uses recyclable packaging for the products, recycled paper for printing, recycled cardboard boxes and packing materials for shipments and ships carbon free through a partnership with Carbonfund.org.

Check out Fit Beauty for more spring workout clothing suggestions.

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]]>athletic wearearth dayeco-friendlyeco-friendly companiesenvironmentally consciousgreensporting goodsKristen SeymourThu, 22 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST3 Cool Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with Your Familyhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/3-cool-ways-to-celebrate-earth-day-with-your-family/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/3-cool-ways-to-celebrate-earth-day-with-your-family/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/3-cool-ways-to-celebrate-earth-day-with-your-family/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dad and son surfingTeaching your kids how to be kind to the planet is a great way to celebrate Earth Day this year. Personal trainer Jessica Cummings at BodyScapes in Brookline, Mass., agreed, "Earth day is the perfect opportunity to slate outdoor workouts, learn how to garden, and even create obstacle courses using natural elements around your neighborhood." Here, Cummings offers leisure time fun-and-games designed to nurture Mother Earth and give you a fresh start for spring!

Backyard Obstacle Course
Line up several activities around your block to create natural stations for every member of your family, and perform one activity at each stop moving as quickly as you can, one family member at a time. (Time yourselves if you're feeling competitive!) Run to a tree and do 20 jumping jacks. Side shuffle to a specific plant (or fence, etc.) and do 20 push ups. Run backwards to an area where pine cones are set up and hop back and forth over them, one foot at a time. Carry a bucket of water to a patch of grass that needs to be watered. Empty the bucket, run back to the hose, and fill the bucket for the next person. Skip to where you started and do 20 sit ups.

Hold a Family Sports Day
In order to maintain strong family bonds, it's important to teach children that being active and healthy is imperative to improving the quality of life. Go to a neighborhood park or playing field and bring several fit tools: A Frisbee, a jump rope, a football, a soccer ball, baseball equipment, etc. "Take turns choosing one sport and play for 20 minutes, then move to another," said Cummings. "Allow each member of the family to create rules and lead the game of their choice."

Plant an Herb Garden
Get the whole family involved with turning up the soil, shoveling and hoeing the backyard before planting. Here are several other activities that can help clean up your yard and blast mega-calories:
  • Rake and bag leaves, and start a leaf fight with the neighbors.
  • Weed and dig holes for seeds and smaller plants, then water them.
  • Make a bird house out of glue and Popsicle sticks, then go bird watching with a pair of binoculars.
  • Donate your time to clean up a local park and make your 'hood a safer place to play.

Check here for more super-fun outdoor workout ideas to celebrate Earth Day! Do you have a favorite way to celebrate Earth Day with your kids? Let us know in the comments.

Fitness expert Nicole Dorsey Straff is a Los Angeles-based exercise physiologist and author, and frequently writes about diet, health and wellness.

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]]>celebrate earth dayEarth Dayfamily fitnessfamily sportsgardenobstacle coursesportsNicole Dorsey-StraffTue, 20 Apr 2010 15:00:00 ESTSomatic Traininghttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/14/somatic-training/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/14/somatic-training/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/14/somatic-training/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You might call an athlete a "natural" when her movement patterns - from tennis swings and golf putts to breaststrokes and running hurdles -- are present in a fluid and effortless way. But that doesn't happen overnight, very few athletes are total naturals, and everyone has to learn how to move within their sport to excel.

Whether that sport is step aerobics or running a marathon, Somatic Training bumps personal training up to the next level in a fitness program that incorporates breathing drills, gait analysis and mind-body fundamentals. A Somatic Instructor at the Claremont Hotel, Club and Spa in Berkeley, Calif., asked me to fill out a questionnaire and list my fitness goals, injuries and health issues, and then a certified trainer analyzed how I moved. Especially helpful for injured athletes like me, Somatic Training is a gentle and pain-free exercise program that produces organic movement patterns, and adds drills for flexibility and coordination.

The Somatic Trainer then creates a program that involves a combination of machines, weights and other activities like swimming, yoga and Tai Chi to erase potentially painful movement patterns. In working around my previous ankle sprains and hip injuries, my Somatic Training session involved lifting lighter weights than usual, some Pilates-based core exercises, lots of yoga-like stretching and a brief cool down massage.



Continue reading Somatic Training

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]]>boost athletic performacesculpt a better bodysomatic trainingwe-tried-itNicole Dorsey-StraffMon, 14 Dec 2009 14:00:00 ESTTurmeric: Herbal Remedyhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/29/turmeric-herbal-remedy/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/29/turmeric-herbal-remedy/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/29/turmeric-herbal-remedy/#commentsFiled under:

Turmeric, one of the main ingredients in curry, is a plant and spice known for its unique flavor, bright yellow coloring and reputed health benefits.

Part of the ginger family, Turmeric was used as a dye and considered a powerful anti-inflammatory in ancient Chinese and Indian medicine. It is also believed to have an array of health benefits. It has been used as both a cancer-fighting agent and a liver detoxifier. Additionally, the South Asian plant can be used as an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent on cuts and burns. Turmeric has also been used as a digestive aid and treatment for arthritis and depression.

Today, turmeric can be taken as in capsule form. Most experts, however, recommend that people try to include it in their daily recipes and meals.

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]]>cancercumincurcumincurryspicespicesturmericturmeric and cancerturmeric healthturmeric health benefitsturmeric nutritionturmeric supplementsTurmericAndCancerTurmericHealthTurmericHealthBenefitsTurmericNutritionTurmericSupplementsMartha EdwardsThu, 29 Oct 2009 14:15:00 ESTInversion Tableshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/27/inversion-tables/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/27/inversion-tables/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/27/inversion-tables/#commentsFiled under: ,

An inversion table is an apparatus that you lie down on so that you can hang upside down or at an inverted angle. Inversion therapy is a form of stretching said to help relieve back pain and stress, improve posture, strengthen the core and ligaments and increase circulation. Practitioners say that gravity's pull decompresses the joints and puts the spine in alignment, relieving pressure on the discs and nerves. Some say that by using an inversion table, they can relieve the pressure of tight muscles in a way that can't be achieved by simply lying on the back. Enthusiasts also like that the table stimulates circulation, giving them the opposite flow of blood that they would have when standing up.

Inversion therapy is a controversial practice. Many doctors believe that hanging upside down can only provide temporary back pain relief and that the possible side effects (headaches, bleeding into the retina, and worsening back pain) are not worth the risk.

An inversion table will cost you between $100-$2000. You might be able to find one in your local gym or yoga studio.

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]]>alignmentback paingravityinversion tableinversion therapyinversiontableinversiontherapyposturespinestretchingRonnie KoenigTue, 27 Oct 2009 13:55:00 ESTDr. Oz's Greatest Health Tips and Foods that Sabbotage or Improve Sleep: Links We Lovehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/26/dr-oz-s-greatest-health-tips-and-foods-that-sabbotage-or-improv/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/26/dr-oz-s-greatest-health-tips-and-foods-that-sabbotage-or-improv/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/26/dr-oz-s-greatest-health-tips-and-foods-that-sabbotage-or-improv/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We at That's Fit and AOL Health know you've got a lot going on in your lives besides staying in great shape, and we realize that more than just diet and exercise goes into feeling your best every day. That's why we're sharing some of the exciting reporting going on at AOL Health.

At That's Fit and AOL Health we certainly love yoga (for weight-loss, to improve sex and more!), but Dr. Oz gave us one more reason to harness our inner-yogis: Loosening your muscles through yoga may mean you're less likely to injure yourself in your other fitness activities. Find 24 more health tips from Dr. Oz.

Got a case of the Monday afternoon slumps? Continue reading to find out why toast could help improve your sleep.

Ahh, the late-night fridge and cupboard rounds...Tempting though they may be, midnight snacks could hurt your chances of catching some Zzzs.

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]]>fitness tipsFitnessTipsmidnight snacksMidnightSnackssleepweight lossWeightLossyogaAOL Health EditorsMon, 26 Oct 2009 15:30:00 ESTFlaxseed -- What is it?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/26/flaxseed-what-is-it/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/26/flaxseed-what-is-it/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/26/flaxseed-what-is-it/#commentsFiled under: ,

Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant. Flaxseed oil (also called linseed oil) comes from flaxseeds and is available in liquid and capsule form. Whole, crushed or powdered flaxseed can be mixed with water or juice and taken orally, or can be sprinkled on foods. Although flaxseed contains many healthy components, it is primarily made up of three ingredients: Omega-3 essential fatty acids ("good" fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects), lignans (which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities) and fiber (both the soluble and insoluble types).

Since flaxseed contains soluble fiber, like that found in oat bran, it is considered an effective laxative. Studies of flaxseed have been shown to lower cholesterol levels, also thought to be a benefit, report mixed results. Additionally, some studies suggest that alpha-linolenic acid, also called ALA (a substance found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil) may benefit people with heart disease. But not enough reliable data is available to determine whether flaxseed is effective for heart conditions.

There are some differences between flaxseed and flaxseed oil that should be noted. Flaxseed contains lignans (phytoestrogens, or plant estrogens), while flaxseed oil preparations lack lignans; flaxseed oil alone contains neither the fiber nor the phytochemicals of whole flaxseed.

Flaxseeds need to be ground to make the nutrients available, otherwise they just pass through. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil supplements seem to be well-tolerated and few side effects have been reported. However, since flax has such a high fiber content, it's best to start with a small amount and increase your intake slowly, otherwise cramping and a "laxative effect" can result. People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome may have an especially strong reaction to it. Flaxseed, like any supplemental fiber source, should be taken with plenty of water; otherwise, it could worsen constipation or, in rare cases, even cause intestinal blockage. The fiber in flaxseed may also lower the body's ability to absorb oral medications, so it's often advised that flaxseed should not be taken at the same time as any conventional oral medications or other dietary supplements. The optimum dose to obtain health benefits is not yet known, but one to two tablespoons of ground flaxseed a day is currently the suggested dose, according to the Flax Council of Canada.

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]]>fiberflaxflaxseedflaxseed oilFlaxseedOilflaxseedsomega-3Omega-3FattyAcidsAOL Health EditorsMon, 26 Oct 2009 12:15:00 ESTSplenda Side Effectshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/22/splenda-side-effects/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/22/splenda-side-effects/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/22/splenda-side-effects/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Splenda, the sucralose-based artificial sweetener marketed originally in North America, has no calories, no insulin boost, and most of all, no cravings like its sugar counterpart. Sounds too good to be true, right?

Sucralose is a synthetic compound (think modified sugar by adding chlorine atoms) and the Splenda product itself is not without side effects. Allergies to sucralose result in rashes, panic attacks, headaches, intestinal cramping, diarrhea, dizziness, swelling, bladder issues, muscle aches and stomach pain. Maybe Splenda isn't so spectacular for you after all. As pointed out by Duke University researchers, it destroys good intestinal bacteria and prevents prescription drugs from being absorbed.

So, the next time you reach for Splenda or eat something that already has Splenda in it like Juicy Fruit gum, you may want to think twice.

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]]>artificial sweetenersArtificialSweetenersside effects of insulinSideEffectsOfInsulinsplendasugarlandVicki SalemiThu, 22 Oct 2009 13:00:00 ESTApple Cider Vinegar - Does it Help Weight Loss?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/apple-cider-vinegar-does-it-help-weight-loss/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/apple-cider-vinegar-does-it-help-weight-loss/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/apple-cider-vinegar-does-it-help-weight-loss/#commentsFiled under:

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple cider and is considered by many alternative health practitioners to promote overall health and well-being. Traditionally, apple cider vinegar has been thought to help with a variety ailments including gout, acne, arthritis, allergies and high cholesterol, but it came to be especially popular for its medicinal properties thanks to a bestselling book published in 1958, "Folk Medicine: A Vermont Doctor's Guide to Good Health" by D.C. Jarvis, M.D. In the 1970s, many started to believe that apple cider vinegar could help speed up weight loss as well by increasing metabolism.

Several small studies have shown that regular doses of apple cider vinegar can help lower blood glucose levels, offering promising potential to those suffering from diabetes. Additionally, apple cider vinegar is used to restore alkaline acid balance and is a popular home remedy for zits and acid reflux. Apple cider vinegar is believed to have a positive impact on high blood pressure and cholesterol but more research is needed.

Apple cider vinegar can be ingested or applied to the skin in its natural form, though there is a small chance that it can cause burning. Subsequently, many users tend to dilute the vinegar with water and mix it with honey.

Check out AOL Health for more about Natural Weight-Loss Aids. Plus, stay up-to-date with Diet and Fitness News from That's Fit.

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]]>acetic acidAceticAcidacid refluxAcidRefluxacneacvapple cider vinegarAppleCiderVinegarcholesterolglucoseweightMartha EdwardsWed, 21 Oct 2009 15:45:00 ESTCinnamon Health Benefitshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/cinnamon-health-benefits/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/cinnamon-health-benefits/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/cinnamon-health-benefits/#commentsFiled under: ,

In addition to jazzing up dishes, cinnamon is a spice with many health benefits.

Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce chances of both stroke and heart disease. The spice also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help fight infections and lice.

Cinnamon appears to have a positive effect on blood sugar levels and according to the USDA's Human Nutrition Research Center, cinnamon seems to make insulin more efficient at taking glucose out of blood and converting it to fuel for your body.

Studies also claim anti-viral benefits for a special cinnamon extract against Avian Flu H9, the Sendai virus, HIV and Herpes Simplex 1, Newcastle disease (in chickens) and the flu. The extract not only fights viruses, but it will also immunize against them.

To top it all off, cinnamon is an excellent source of manganese, dietary fiber, iron and calcium.

Cinnamon can be toxic in large doses. And please note that large, doughy cinnamon buns are not an ideal source of cinnamon.

Read more about this sweet spice on That's Fit:

Cinnamon is Good for You

Scents of the Season

Cinnamon Keeps Blood Sugar Down

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]]>CinnamonhealthSara AbadiWed, 21 Oct 2009 14:00:00 ESTBlack Cohosh -- A Natural Remedy?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/black-cohosh-a-natural-remedy/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/black-cohosh-a-natural-remedy/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/21/black-cohosh-a-natural-remedy/#commentsFiled under: ,

Black cohosh has a history of use for arthritis and muscle pain, but today, it is one of the more popular herbal remedies and nutritional supplements used primarily to treat hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and other symptoms that can occur during menopause. Black cohosh has also been used for menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome, as well as to induce labor.

Black cohosh (known as both Actaea racemosa and Cimicifuga racemosa), a member of the buttercup family, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. Initial research on black cohosh suggests that it may improve some menopausal symptoms for up to six months. But while preliminary evidence is encouraging, the currently available data is not sufficient to support a recommendation on the use of the herb for menopausal symptoms.

How black cohosh works isn't understood. The safety of black cohosh in pregnant or breast-feeding women or children hasn't been established. Black cohosh is sometimes used by nurse-midwives to induce labor, but it should never be used by a pregnant woman without supervision by a qualified healthcare provider, because it could stimulate uterine contractions and result in miscarriage. Because black cohosh may act like the hormone estrogen in the body, it could also potentially interfere with hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives.

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]]>black cohoshBlackCohoshnatural remediesNaturalRemediessupplementsAOL Health EditorsWed, 21 Oct 2009 12:45:00 ESTWhat Your Body Is Telling You: This Week on AOL Healthhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/20/what-your-body-is-telling-you-this-week-on-aol-health/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/20/what-your-body-is-telling-you-this-week-on-aol-health/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/20/what-your-body-is-telling-you-this-week-on-aol-health/#commentsFiled under: ,

woman's calves
Photo: Jupiterimages
From your bra size (large may indicate diabetes, ladies) to the width of your calves (skinnier is the problem here -- it may signal heart trouble), body characteristics can indicate a wealth of information about your overall health. Discover your body's 10 weirdest health clues this week on AOL Health.

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]]>aol-healthbodyhealthsizeAOL Health EditorsTue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 ESTColonicshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/19/colonics/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/19/colonics/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/19/colonics/#commentsFiled under:

Colonics -- also known as colonic irrigation, colon cleansing or colon hydrotherapy -- are an alternative medical therapy that involve flushing the colon with water through the rectum to cleanse the intestinal tract. The aim of a colonic is to remove fecal matter and toxins from the colon, and a colonic can sometimes involve the use of special herbs or liquids. Colonics can be used to relieve constipation, cleanse the intestinal tract and improve overall health.

Colonics are performed by trained professionals, called a colon hydrotherapist. During a colonic treatment, warm water is flushed into the colon through the anus, causing peristalsis, a contraction of the colon muscles. This contraction forces fecal matter out of the intestinal tract, into a closed waste collection system. The process can feel slightly uncomfortable and typically lasts between 45 minutes and an hour. Possible side effects include nausea and fatigue. Some medical professionals feel colonic cleansing is unecessary but many alternative health practitioners advocate it as a healthy way to reduce harmful waste in the body.

Learn more about Alternative Health and Medicine from That's Fit.

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]]>alternative healthAlternativeHealthanuscleansingcleansningcolon cleansingcolon hydro therapyColonCleansingColonHydroTherapycolonic irrigationColonicIrrigationcolonicsfecal matterFecalMatterflushingholistic healthirrigationrectumtoxinswaterMartha EdwardsMon, 19 Oct 2009 14:50:00 ESTTrudy Styler's New Green Living Yoga DVDhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/16/trudy-styler-s-new-green-living-yoga-dvd/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/16/trudy-styler-s-new-green-living-yoga-dvd/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/16/trudy-styler-s-new-green-living-yoga-dvd/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

trudy styler DVD

Photo: Gaiam

Sting's serene missus and her personal trainer James D'Silva, who trained as a ballet dancer in his native Goa, India, lead two beautifully-produced yoga/ballet-type combo workouts in her new DVD series produced by Gaiam and filmed in Tuscany. If you're a Sting fanatic who wants to increase strength, flexibility and balance, you can't go wrong with these mostly yoga-like routines backed up by treasured tunes (at least on my iPod) from Sting's CD "Songs from the Labyrinth." What's not to like about Sting and yoga -- in Italy, of all places. Sign me up.

The intermediate mind-body routines were filmed at the Grammy winner's Il Palagio estate in Tuscany, an unbelievably-gorgeous backdrop. During filming, trainer D'Silva has impeccable alignment during Sun Salutations and basic flow postures while offering more advanced modifications of most poses. It's motivating to see that Trudy looks like a regular person (who just happens to be hitched to a rock star) doing regular-person yoga -- which is helpful and inspiring to novice exercisers.

DVD bonus material is a veritable feast for the senses. Segments include a grand tour of Il Palagio's kitchen and gardens, where more than 70 percent of the food comes from the estate itself, including products sold to the public such as honey and olive oil. There's an informative behind-the-scenes look at how Il Palagio uses the surrounding land to create a self-sustaining and eco-friendly house that runs on bio-fuels, as well as a discussion with the happy couple about their conversion of estate lands into biodynamic vineyards and their organic wine label. A percentage of DVD profits will go towards the Unicef Ecuador Water Project, which provides rainwater collection and filtration tanks to polluted communities in the Ecuadoran rainforest.

When you get a few minutes, try these gentle yoga routines, too.

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]]>celeb yogaCelebYogagentle yogaGentleYogaTuscantuscanyyogaNicole Dorsey-StraffFri, 16 Oct 2009 15:00:00 ESTReview: Does this Cookbook Make Me Look Fat?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/06/review-does-this-cookbook-make-me-look-fat/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/06/review-does-this-cookbook-make-me-look-fat/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/06/review-does-this-cookbook-make-me-look-fat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Does This Cookbook Make Me Look Fat? book cover

Photo: Robert Lane

Hilarious. Celebrity trainer and healthy chef Rona Lewis is a Woody Allen-quoting funny gal who also happens to cook up a mean, yummy streak. In early chapters of "Does This Cookbook Make Me Look Fat?" Lewis reports on the healthiest cooking tools in your kitchen and includes little juicy tidbit tips along the way. She uses considerable amounts of cinnamon to cook, for instance, because it's naturally anti-inflammatory and may relieve stiffness in muscles and joints. The fit-conscious Angeleno also provides a "Guide to Cooking Techniques" and includes a straightforward chapter on "7 Mood-Boosting Foods." (Did you know, for instance, even a small deficiency of vitamin C can leave you feelin' cranky and blue?)

None of the recipes, which constitute the majority of the book, are supremely difficult, and I found myself turning down a dozen pages of food I really wanted to prepare for my family. And I'm not the only one: Lewis' clients have included supermodel Iman, actress Kyra Sedgwick and fashion designer Marc Jacobs. Lewis helpfully breaks down the fat/protein/carbohydrate content of each and every recipe, and she includes the cholesterol and sodium intake too, from the hearty and satisfying Lentil Spinach Soup or the Ratatouille with Chicken Sausage, all the way to the Chocolate-Glazed Pears. (I'm glad she also includes real desserts in this thoughtful book so there's zero sense of deprivation.)

Continue reading Review: Does this Cookbook Make Me Look Fat?

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]]>celebrity trainerCelebrityTrainerhealthy eatinghealthy recipeshealthy recipes for kidsHealthyEatinghealthyhabitsHealthyRecipesHealthyRecipesForKidsRona LewisRonaLewisNicole Dorsey-StraffTue, 06 Oct 2009 13:00:00 ESTHow Safe Is Your Drinking Water - This Week on AOL Healthhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/06/how-safe-is-your-drinking-water-this-week-on-aol-health/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/06/how-safe-is-your-drinking-water-this-week-on-aol-health/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/06/how-safe-is-your-drinking-water-this-week-on-aol-health/#commentsFiled under:

man drinking water
Photo: Photodisc
We know water's great for weight-loss, appearance and overall mental and physical performance. But can this simple beverage also make you sick? This week, AOL Health takes a look at what's lurking in your tap and what you can do to discover the quality of water -- and what, if any, changes in regulation we can help make happen. Plus, discover the 10 dirtiest tap-water states.

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]]>aol-healthdrinking waterDrinkingWaterhydrationtap waterTapWaterwaterAOL Health EditorsTue, 06 Oct 2009 11:00:00 ESTEco-Friendly Treadmill Uses Zero Electricityhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/05/eco-friendly-treadmill-uses-zero-electricity/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/05/eco-friendly-treadmill-uses-zero-electricity/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/05/eco-friendly-treadmill-uses-zero-electricity/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EcoMill
Photo: Michael Frank, Woodway
Burning excess calories while generating electricity sounds too good to be true, but that's what Woodway's latest fitness machine is all about. The EcoMill is a manually-powered treadmill that uses zero electricity. The self-sustained machine works by converting your own energy into precious watts, thereby saving a few watts from the grid. The EcoMill's drive system allows you to stay fit without increasing your carbon footprint. I tried it at a recent fitness trade show and found myself powering a generator, which converted the energy into electricity to power the display and the elevation system. Extra energy is stored in the treadmill's battery when it isn't in use.

Clunky? No! It looks sleek, curvy and Jetson-like, but I also expected a non-electric treadmill to feel rough and, well, manual, under my sneakers, but not one bit. In fact, Woodway's patented design incorporates shock-absorbing rubberized slats and smooth-rolling ball bearings to create a less-stressful workout for the lower-body. (These old tired hips thank you, Woodway engineers!)

Loud? No! I thought a manually-powered exercise machine would make crazy-loud noises, but again, the result is an amazingly-quiet treadmill scientifically proven to provide the ideal "softness" to eliminate the harmful shock to connective tissue and muscles. When I questioned Eric Weber, Woodway's sales and marketing director, he explained that the sophisticated curved design is the culmination of years of non-motorized development, but the key ingredient is the near-frictionless drive system, which allows the running belt to move freely.

Continue reading Eco-Friendly Treadmill Uses Zero Electricity

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]]>eco friendlyeco friendly productsEcoFriendlyEcoFriendlyProductsgreen livinggreen machinegreen treadmillGreenLivingGreenMachineGreenTreadmilltreadmilltreadmillsNicole Dorsey-StraffMon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST