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WELLNESS CONNECTIONThe Eating Habits of Men and WomenBy Paulette Lambert, R.D., CDE, Director of NutritionMarch 19, 2010 - 1:30PM Watch a group of young children eating. You will note that the boys are the ones that are finishing the meat and chicken on their plates, while the girls finish the rice and vegetables, leaving the meat. How many teenage girls order double double burgers and 12 oz. steaks? You will most likely find them devouring a large salad or a box of sugar cereal. Recent studies show that women clearly prefer fruit (especially berries and apples), vegetables, yogurt and dry foods such as crackers and nuts. Men on the other hand, prefer meat, pizza and Mexican food. If they do eat vegetables, they choose Brussels sprouts and asparagus. Food preference plays a significant role in determining how we use food emotionally as well. Women are more likely to eat high fat, high sugar foods to alleviate negative emotions. Men have a tendency to eat “comfort” foods as a reward, tending to choose soups, pasta and steak. Men find it easier to say “no” to tempting foods than women, a factor that may contribute to women having more weight issues than men. Women need to increase their defenses in regards to controlling binge eating on high fat, high sugar foods when negative feelings occur. Men need to use some restraint in celebrating. So why is it helpful to know these differences between men’s and women’s food preferences? By understanding the difference in eating habits it allows you to target strategies to improve your eating. Both men and women need to eat the same basic healthy diet that is high in fruit and vegetables, incorporating the right amount of whole grains depending on weight and activity, and a moderate amount of lean protein and healthy fats. Most men really need to focus on increasing fruits and vegetables to seven to 10 servings each day to decrease cancer risk as well as other health concerns. Also, it is men’s best interest to decrease the amount of protein that they generally like to eat. Eating more than 5-6 oz. of protein at dinner, even chicken and fish, is not desirable because it adds extra calories that contain saturated fat. Of course, that’s the fat that causes heart disease. Women, on the other hand, need to focus on eating adequate protein at each meal. While a green salad and fruit may be healthy choices, they are not enough to maintain blood sugars and stave off the four o’clock munchies that can drive you to a sugar binge. So the next time you are dining out and trying to eat healthy, it means compromises for both sexes. He needs to agree to split that steak with you and finish the veggies on his plate plus eat his salad. She needs to eat some protein and only take one piece of bread from the basket. This way both genders can have a healthy diet. This article originally appeared in Organic Spa magazine, March-April 2010. Rated by 2 people: An Alternative Approach to Overcoming Sleep DisordersBy Barbara E. Savin, C.HT, Clinical Hypnotherapist and Energy Healing SpecialistMarch 05, 2010 - 6:00AM Natural treatment modalities can lessen the effects of sleep disorders. These methods include: proper diet and nutrition, herbs and supplements, relaxation and sensory techniques, meditation, hypnosis CDs or behavioral and cognitive strategies. Often, people use a combination of these approaches to help alleviate the symptoms of their sleep disorders. Take a closer look: Healthy Diet. A healthy diet is essential for optimal energy and a restful sleep. Avoid certain foods that are grown, treated or processed with chemicals. Be sure to limit the amount of sugar and caffeine. Eat a wide variety of foods and drink plenty of water to keep your body well-balanced and to provide a more stable energy level. Eat the proper snacks before bedtime to increase natural serotonin levels. Serotonin acts as a natural sedative and is made in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. Foods rich in tryptophan include: chicken, turkey, cheese, cottage cheese, fish, milk, nuts, avocados and bananas. Herbs and Natural Supplements. It is important to know how a specific product acts on the body and on the specific sleep disorder. For example, many people with restless leg syndrome (RLS) have an iron or folic acid deficiency. Taking an iron supplement may alleviate some of the symptoms of RLS. Many herbs are well known for promoting a natural sleep. Drinking chamomile or lemon balm tea can be very relaxing to many people who suffer from insomnia. Exercise and Relaxation Techniques. Whether used alone or together, exercise and relaxation can reduce stress and muscle tension. Many people use these techniques (mindful exercise, progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises and yoga) to lessen symptoms before going to bed, as they ease physical tension, calm the mind and prepare the body to sleep. Meditation and Visualization. Used by some sufferers of sleep disorders to calm the body before sleep. Two common forms of mediation are meditation of the breath and mantra meditation. Both of these types can have a positive effect on relieving stress and calming the body. Many people focus their energy on a healing visualization as a method of alternative therapy. Sensory Techniques. Hydrotherapy, meaning water therapy, includes relaxing in an Epsom salt bath or a lymph stimulating footbath. Aromatherapy includes the use of therapeutic essential oils in baths, massage oils, room sprays and simple inhalants. Alternative Behavioral and Cognitive Strategies. Used to combat the symptoms of a sleep disorder, including improving a person's sleep hygiene, stimulus control therapy and journal writing. Alternative practices and techniques can help many types of sleep disorders. They are often used in conjunction with traditional medication and practices. By taking advantage of some of these alternative treatment modalities, you will experience a good night’s sleep. In addition, you will reduce the symptoms of sleep disorders. Here’s to a peaceful night’s rest. Rated by 5 people:
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Recent PostsMarch 19, 2010 - 1:30PMThe Eating Habits of Men and WomenBy Paulette Lambert, R.D., CDE, Director of NutritionMarch 05, 2010 - 6:00AMAn Alternative Approach to Overcoming Sleep DisordersBy Barbara E. Savin, C.HT, Clinical Hypnotherapist and Energy Healing SpecialistArchives |
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