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Maternal interpregnancy weight change and premature birth – Contemporary Obgyn
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Normal-weight women who lose more than 3 kg/m2in body mass between the start of their first and second live pregnancies are more than three times as likely to deliver prematurely in the latter pregnancy, compared to normal-weight women whose weight remains stable in the interpregnancy period. This is the main finding of ananalysisof the United Kingdom-based SLOPE (Studying Lifecourse Obesity PrEdictors) project in the journalPLOS One.
However, there was no evidence of a connection between weight change in women who were overweight or obese at the start of their first pregnancy and premature birth in the second pregnancy. Weight stability in the analysis was defined as -1 and +1 body mass index (BMI) units kg/m2between the start of the first pregnancy and the start of the second pregnancy.
The overall aim of the SLOPE project is to study maternal and early-life predictors of childhood obesity, said Nisreen Alwan, MBCHB, PhD, the principal investigator of the analysis and an associate professor of public health at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom. Dr. Alwan said one of the research themes of the SLOPE project is studying interconception health to identify how change in modifiable factors between successive pregnancies is linked to important health indicators from birth onwards. This is to inform the design of effective interventions during this period which supports women and families in optimizing their current and future health, she said.
MethodsThe analysis used data from 2003 to 2018 of roughly 15,000 women who received antenatal care and lived in Southampton and surrounding parts of Hampshire, United Kingdom, during at least two of their pregnancies. Women who were within the normal weight range (18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2) at the start of their first pregnancy and lost significant weight between their first and second pregnanciesbut not enough to place them in the underweight categorywere at significantly higher risk of a premature birth than those who maintained a stable weight: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.5; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.8 to 6.9. This relationship is not necessarily causal, Dr. AlwantoldContemporary OB/GYN. For example, ill general health or stress can lead to both weight loss and premature birth.
Only 1% of normal-weight women lost more than 3 kg/m2between their two pregnancies. Overall, losing weight was much less common than gaining weight between pregnancies, with about half of women gaining weight (1 kg/m2or more) between their first and second pregnancies compared to under 16% losing weight during that period, Dr. Alwan said.
But there was no evidence of a link between weight loss and premature birth in women with overweight or obesity at the start of their first pregnancy, or in women who gained weight between pregnancies after taking into account confounding factors.
A separatestudyfrom the SLOPE project demonstrated that 16% of babies born to women who gained substantial weight (3 kg/m2or more) between pregnancies were large-for-gestational-age (LGA) comparedto 12% of babies born to women who lost weight or remained at a stable weight between pregnancies.
ConclusionsWomen who gained a significant amount of weight by the start of their second pregnancy were more likely to be smokers and unemployed, with lower educational attainment and a longer interpregnancy interval, compared with those who maintained a stable weight between pregnancies, Dr. Alwan said. The study also found that overweight women who lost weight (1 kg/m2or more) after an LGA birth in their first pregnancy were 31% less likely to have recurrent LGA in their second pregnancy.
The findings of the analysis couldhelp doctors, midwives and other health professionals identify women who may have greater odds of premature and LGA birth, by linking a womans weight at the start of her previous pregnancy, according to Dr. Alwan.
Disclosures:
The research is supported by an Academy of Medical Sciences and Wellcome Trust grant. Dr. Alwan also receives research support from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Southampton Biomedical Research Centre and the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration, Wessex, United Kingdom.
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Maternal interpregnancy weight change and premature birth - Contemporary Obgyn
The Benefits of Noom for Lifelong Healthy Habit Formation and Weight Loss Without Diets – AskMen
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7 Ways Noom Can Train Your Brain to Meet Your 2020 Health Goals
Noom is an app-based health tool that is helping users on their quests to slim down and form healthy habits. Through personalized coaching and healthy habit formation, it aims to impart lessons that can be carried throughout your life ... not just until you hit your current goals. Its effectiveness lies is the fact that it's not really a "diet," but more of a lifestyle adjustment. While most diets are very restrictive, Noom affords you a lot more freedom to enjoy your favorite foods yes, even the less-than-healthy ones without going overboard.
So without further ado, let's jump into the top seven benefits of getting healthier with Noom.
When you first get started, you'll take a quiz about your activity level and any weight loss goals you may have, and Noom's specialized algorithm will determine your personal caloric needs. Then, as you go about your daily life, you're encouraged to eat real, whole foods packed with nutrients. The benefits of healthy snacking are also praised by Noom to help you stave off hunger, and youre even allowed to indulge a little bit as long you stay within your allotted dietary budget.
RELATED: Simple Steps to Stave Off Holiday Weight Gain
Once your dietary budget is determined based on your individual goals, Noom will do the math and let you know how many of your daily calories should come from protein, fat, and carbs. Some diets treat "fats" or "carbs" like dirty words, but Noom knows that each of these macronutrients is vital to keeping your body healthy. Furthermore, properly balancing them in your meals will help you stay fuller longer and reach your health goals quicker and more efficiently.
Sometimes we get busy and don't think about what we're going to eat for lunch until it's nearly 2 p.m. and we're already starving. It's in these moments that we make bad choices and go for the quickest meal options with too much fat, salt, and processed ingredients. Even when we're not busy, it's easy to fall into a routine filled with bad habits, such as mindless snacking. Noom, however, asks you to log what you eat so you can get a better idea of your problem points and make conscious decisions toward improvement. In fact, a recent medical study even suggests that people who regularly log their food intake in a meal-tracking app lose more weight than those who are simply trying to "watch" their weight. It's quick and easy to scan barcodes or search the database to add your meals to the app, so it won't become a drain on your day.
Noom categorizes all foods in its database as either green, yellow, or red to help you determine at a single glance what your relationship to that food should be. These easy-to-spot designations let you know whether a certain food is something you can eat freely or be more mindful about consuming. The color coding has nothing to do with the actual colors of the foods you eat, despite some little coincidental crossovers. Ideally, you'll want to fill up on "green" foods such as vegetables and whole grains; moderate your portions of "yellow" foods, i.e. starch and lean protein; and indulge sparingly in "red" foods, including red meat and sweets.
Noom provides coaching tailored specifically to you and your goals, and it's essential to keeping you involved in the program. You'll be able to access a checklist of steps to take each day that are designed to help you move closer toward your individual goals. Your assigned coach is readily available to answer your questions, give you a little pep talk, and generally keep you motivated every weekday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. It's a lot easier to meet your goals when you've got your own personal cheerleader with knowledgeable, actionable advice on the sidelines.
Losing weight and reaching your personal health goals is often about the physical changes brought on by eating well and staying active, right? But if you feel like you're doing everything you should and you're not seeing any improvement, it's important to recognize that sometimes there are mental roadblocks that are preventing you from hitting your goals. Noom brings awareness to these barriers and provides the assistance and encouragement necessary to break through them and form better habits.
This one's for all the commitment phobes out there. You don't have to stick with Noom forever, though if you do it right, you'll set yourself up for a lifetime of good habits and a healthier relationship with food. Noom is ultimately designed to teach you how to manage your diet and your choices on your own. Eventually, you won't need Noom to hold your hand through the process anymore because all of their lessons will have become second nature. It's merely the vessel that will lead you to that point of not thinking, but just doing.
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The Benefits of Noom for Lifelong Healthy Habit Formation and Weight Loss Without Diets - AskMen
Saint Anne’s Hospital’s Healthy Happenings for January – News – Fall River Herald News
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Saint Annes Hospital announced the following healthy opportunities for you and your family:
The following programs and activities offered by Saint Annes Hospital are free of charge, open to the public, and held at locations as noted. Free valet parking at the hospital is available weekdays during normal business hours at the hospitals main entrance and at the Hudner Oncology Center entrance. For additional information, visit https://www.saintanneshospital.org/events, e-mail SAHMail@Steward.org, or call telephone numbers as noted.
Jan. 8: Steward Center for Weight Control support group for pre- and post-operative patients. If you have undergone weight loss surgery, or if you are scheduled for surgery in the coming months, support yourself and others at our free monthly support group. Saint Annes Hospitals bariatric surgery program is accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, a joint program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Group is held monthly at Saint Annes Hospital. Registration is not required; drop-ins are welcome. Time: 5-6 p.m. Location: Nannery Conference Room (Room 134), Clemence Hall, Saint Annes Hospital. For more information, call 508-672-0483.
Jan.8: Weight loss surgery informational seminar. If traditional diet-and-exercise programs have not helped you lose weight and keep it off, join bariatric surgeon Matthew LeMaitre, MD, for a free informational seminar about advances in weight loss surgery. Dr. LeMaitre is director of metabolic and bariatric surgery at the Steward Center for Weight Control at Saint Annes Hospital. Saint Annes Hospitals weight loss surgery program is accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, a joint program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Get answers to frequently asked questions and meet with Dr. LeMaitre. Program is held monthly. Interpreter services are available when requested in advance. Time: 6-7 p.m. Location: Nannery Conference Room (Room 134), Clemence Hall, Saint Annes Hospital. There is no charge, but pre-registration is requested. Call 508-235-5305, or email SAHRSVP@Steward.org.
Jan.8, 22: Grief education and bereavement program. Sponsored by Saint Annes Hospital Office of Spiritual Care, this drop-in series is held for those who have lost a loved one. Its the chance to share and explore feelings and learn ways to accept and cope with grief and loss. Programs are facilitated by Sr. Judith Costa, SSD, MDiv, DAPA, CT, ACMC-III, a certified pastoral counselor who is bilingual English-Portuguese. Upcoming sessions include:
Jan.: The Joy-Guilt Syndrome
Jan. 22: Depression and Grief
All are welcome to attend at any time. Advance registration is not required, and drop-ins are welcome. There is no charge. Time: 7-8:30 p.m. Location: Robert F. Stoico/FIRSTFED Center for Breast Care at Saint Anne's Hospital, Fall River. For more information, or to speak to a chaplain, call Sr. Judith Costa, 508-345-2660. See the full 2020 schedule at saintanneshospital.org/events.
Jan.14: American Red Cross blood drives. Blood and blood products are critical to maintaining a strong and stable blood supply, but especially crucial during winter months when donations may decline. If you are healthy, have not donated whole blood in the last eight weeks or double red cells in the last 16 weeks, and weigh at least 110 pounds, please stop by this blood drive, sponsored by the American Red Cross. Time: 12-5 p.m. Location: Nannery Conference Room, Clemence Hall, Saint Annes Hospital, 795 Middle St., Fall River. Walk-ins are welcome. Appointments also are available by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App (www.redcrossblood.org/bloodapp), visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Hospice volunteer training. Adults who are interested in providing companionship and support to patients and families served by Steward Hospice, an AccentCare company, in the Greater Fall River-New Bedford area are invited to learn more at a free volunteer training. Training includes the philosophy of hospice care, a comprehensive overview of services offered by hospice, and discussions about the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual issues that people may encounter at the end of life. A special emphasis is placed on effective communication and listening skills. Volunteers with day, evening, or weekend availability, as well as Portuguese-speaking adults and veterans of the U.S. Armed Services, are encouraged to apply. Inquiries are welcome. Office location: Steward Home Care and Hospice, an AccentCare company, 275 Martine St., Fall River. To learn more, contact Kim Urquhart, volunteer coordinator, kimurquhart@accentcare.com, 781-915-9409.
Cancer education and support programs
The following free programs are offered by Saint Annes Hospital Regional Cancer Center for all patients and families who are coping with a cancer diagnosis. Participants in these programs do not need to be patients of Saint Annes Hospital. Programs are held as noted at the Hudner Oncology Center at Saint Annes Hospital, 795 Middle Street, Fall River, or Saint Annes Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 537 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth.
Additional support and education programs tailored for Saint Annes Hospital patients and families also are available.
For information about any of our cancer support and education programs, call 508-235-5020, or visit SaintAnnesHospital.org/events.
Jan.7: Life, Part II. This support program for all patients with a cancer diagnosis and their families provides a supportive atmosphere where people can share their experiences, strengths and hopes with each other. It is offered on the first Tuesday of the month, and participants can join at any time. Time: 10-11 a.m. Location: Saint Annes Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 537 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth.
Jan.2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Facing Cancer Together. This support group is designed for all patients with a cancer diagnosis and their family members. Patients can join at any time. Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m. Location: Hudner Oncology Center at Saint Annes Hospital, corner of Osborn and Forest streets, Fall River.
By appointment: Wig fittings for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The American Cancer Society provides wig fittings, hats, scarves, and other items for patients who are undergoing cancer treatment and concerned about hair loss. Dates and times vary throughout the month. Location: Hudner Oncology Center at Saint Annes Hospital, corner of Osborn and Forest streets, Fall River.
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Saint Anne's Hospital's Healthy Happenings for January - News - Fall River Herald News
All about the five vegetable subgroups | News, Sports, Jobs – Evening Observer
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One of the greatest things about eating your daily serving of vegetables is the wide range of nutrients they provide. The amount of vegetables you need to eat depends on your age, gender, and level of physical activity; but in general, you should consume half of your plate from fruits and vegetables each time you eat with about 2 to 2 and 1/2 cups of vegetables daily.
So what vegetables are good for you? Well, this goes back to getting all the nutrients your body needs. Ultimately, your vegetables are organized into five groups based on their nutrient content: dark green vegetables, red-orange vegetables, beans and legumes, starchy vegetables, and the others group. Therefore, you should be consuming vegetables from all five groups, if not every day then at a minimum every week.
The red orange vegetable group includes bell peppers, carrots, sweet potato, squash, and tomatoes. Foods in this vegetable subgroup provide nutrients such as Vitamin A for vision, Vitamin C for immune health, potassium for heart health and healthy blood pressure, and Vitamin K for blood clotting.
The dark green vegetable group includes arugula, broccoli, collard greens, endive, escarole, kale, mixed greens, mustard greens, romaine, spinach, swiss chard, turnip greens, and watercress. Foods in this vegetable subgroup provide nutrients such as fiber for digestive and heart health, folate for cell division and blood health, carotenoids for antioxidant functions, Vitamin C for immune health, and Vitamin K for blood clotting.
The beans and legumes are a unique group that contain excellent sources of plant-based proteins, iron, zinc, folate, potassium, and fiber. Vegetables found in this group include black beans, black-eyed peas, chickpeas, kidney beans, lentils, lima beans, navy beans, pinto beans, and soy beans. These plant-based proteins are generally low cost, healthy protein sources and provide satiety with meals.
The starchy vegetables group include corn, green bananas, green lima beans, green peas, parsnips, white potato, water chestnuts, and yams (sweet potato). While this group provides various nutrients such as potassium, antioxidants, folate, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, these vegetables are also higher in calories than vegetables in other food groups. Theyre particularly high in carbohydrate calories and therefore must be consumed in moderate amounts with portion control.
The other vegetable group includes artichoke, asparagus, avocado, bean sprouts, beets, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, eggplant, green beans, green peppers, iceberg lettuce, mushrooms, okra, onions, radicchio, radishes, snow peas, tomatillos, turnips, wax beans, yellow squash, and zucchini. Foods in this vegetable subgroup provide important nutrients such as magnesium and manganese which play a role in bone health, copper for blood health, selenium for its role as an antioxidant, as well as fiber, folate, and Vitamin K.
So when shopping, choose vegetables rich in color from the entire rainbow to ensure that you are getting a wide range of nutrients. Stock up on frozen vegetables or no salt added canned vegetables that are quickly cooked in the microwave. Create soups from pureed cooked vegetables such as tomato, butternut squash, and garden vegetable to add variety in your diet. Add vegetables to your sauces, casseroles, as well as rice side dishes such as a mushroom risotto. Savor the flavor of the season by choosing a new vegetable you have never tried before and experiment with a new recipe.
Adding all five subgroups of vegetables not only keeps you meals from getting boring, it reduces your risk of chronic disease by giving your body a wide variety of nutrients. Bon appetit!
Please remember to contribute toward your OFA nutrition services if you can. These programs are not sustainable at current levels without the support of participant contributions. Be aware that Food Stamps can be used toward your contribution. Thank you for your support.
Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Senior Nutrition Program provides nutritious noon meals at several Congregate Dining Sites throughout the county along with a Restaurant Dining Out Program. Our Dietitians, Cheryl Wahlstrom RD and Carey Skelton RD are available for nutrition counseling in your home or by phone. We also sponsor several exercise programs. Call the office for more details and information. CALL NY CONNECTS at 753-4582.
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All about the five vegetable subgroups | News, Sports, Jobs - Evening Observer
An exercise shortage in the Northwest – Kitsap Sun
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Julie McCleery, Your turn Published 12:53 p.m. PT Dec. 18, 2019 | Updated 1:12 p.m. PT Dec. 18, 2019
People who live in and around Seattle areamong the nations most active. The region is an outdoor recreation haven for both locals and visitors who enjoyhiking, biking and kayaking.
I conductresearch about coaching and youth sports. To see if the roughly 450,000 kids who live inthe county which encompasses Seattleand its surrounding suburbs get enough exercise through play, sports and outdoor recreation, I teamed up with King County Parks and the Aspen Institute, a think tank.
Moving enough
Federal guidelinesset by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention call for all kids between 6 and 18 years old to be physically active for at least anhour every day. Anything from playing tag at recess to practicing basketball after school to riding a bike to a neighbors house counts.
Organized sports, whether in or out of school, might be the main way you think kids get exercise. Taking part in these programs, whether its a dance class or a swim team, gives kids a chance not only to be physically active but also to learn teamwork and grow more resilient. We found that about 80% of kids in King County have participated in sports programs.
Despite this, we found that only about a fifth of the countys youth get enough physical activity, which is lower than thenational average of about a fourth. States with similarly low rates of physical activity includeAlaska and Maine.
In King County, boys get more exercise than girls which is similar to national trends. However, we found that, unlike national trends, boys and girls are participating in organized sports at the same rate.
Engaging immigrants
My research partners and I also found that young immigrants and the children of immigrants were the most likely to be getting too little exercise.
Morethan one in five of the countys residents were born outside the U.S.We found that only one in 10 of all children who dont speak English at home are spending at least an hour per day being active.
Just half of these immigrants, many of whose families speakSpanish, Chinese or Vietnameseas their first language, have ever participated in an organized sport, like tennis or soccer, compared with almost 90% of their peers whose families were born here.
Further, we learned that children being raised in immigrant families were less likely to play at parks near their homes.
Identifying obstacles
We wanted to better understand what barriers are standing in the way of children and teens being more active. By conducting focus groups and interviews, we determined that the cost of joining teams and the challenges of shuttling children to practice and games are the biggest barriers to participation in everything from baseball to ballet both in and out of school.
Parent after parent expressed dismay at the expense. One parent told us the sports her family does are whatever we can find thats free.
Many Seattle-area clubs and recreation programs, typically run by local governments, provide scholarships. But we also found that scholarships are not enough to topple barriers in the way of many families.
For young immigrant athletes, for example, families have trouble learning how to enroll their kids in these programs when websites and the requisite forms are in English only.
Opportunities for young people to join teams and take part in sports through other means can be quite different from what immigrants are familiar with. A number of immigrant families expressed frustration that more sport and recreation programs were not offered directly at schools, which they said would make it more likely for their children to participate.
Here, its very expensive to learn how to swim, a father told my colleague. But all of my kids who went to school in South Africa, all of them learned how to swim and they are very good swimmers. It was made available to them at school and it was free.
Seeking solutions
In addition, many non-English speakers also told us that they dont feel welcome on teams.
We believe that one way to fix that problem would be for sports programs run by schools, the county and independent organizations alike to recruit and hire more coaches of color. Another would be ensuring that all coaches gettraining in diversity, equity and inclusion. None of the coaches in our coach survey reported being trained in these issues.
Not getting enough physical activity and losing out on the benefits of team sports doesnt just potentially harm the young people who are overly sedentary. It also takes a toll oncollegeand professional sports teams, as well as the official teams representing the United States at the Olympics and competitions like the soccerWorld Cupbecause it limits the available talent pool.
Following the release of our research in September, public health officials, policymakers, educators, businesses, professional sports teams and youth sports programs created theKing County Play Equity Coalition.
Guided by our findings, this coalition aims to make it easier for all kids in our region to join teams, play outside and stay active. The coalition will advocate for policies like longer recess and reduced fees for school sports, as well as help expand programs like green school yards andSoccer without Bordersthat give kids more places and possibilities for active play.
Julie McCleery is a research associate and lecturerCenter for Leadership in Athletics at the University of Washington. She wrote this for The Conversation.
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An exercise shortage in the Northwest - Kitsap Sun
Here’s how to stick to a weight loss plan in the new year – PhillyVoice.com
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More than 62% of Americans are overweight or obese, putting them at greater risk for health issues like coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis and even some cancers.
While hectic schedules and daily stressors can make it hard to stick to a weight loss plan, health experts fromHealthline,The Cleveland ClinicandJohns Hopkins Medicineemphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.
To help get you started, here are some of their tips:
Researchers have found that when obese people set unrealistic expectations for themselves, they are more likely to quit their weight loss program within the year, accordingto Healthline.
Instead, experts suggest shooting to lose no more than two pounds a week. Anything more than that can lead to frustration when those pounds are not so easily shed.
Maintaining new healthy habits isn't always easy. That is why it is important to find ways to stay motivated. Are you doing it for your health? So you can be more active for your kids?
Whatever is driving your weight-loss goals, keep that at the forefront on your mind, especially on those days when you are tired and want to give in to temptation.
Cleveland Clinic experts also recommend that taking time to think about the challenges keeping you from losing weight. It could stress, work or family schedules, among other possibilities. Once you have a better idea of any possible obstacles, set some goals to make the needed changes in your daily life.
If you recognize that chips are your Achilles heel, stop buying them at the supermarket every week. If you tend to eat more junk food when you are out drinking with friends, then you might want to turn those weekly hangouts at the bar into other types of social interaction. Maybe try going to a museum or taking a class together.
Also, limit snacking in front of the television or computer. People can be lessmindful about what they are eating and can easily consume more calories than they realize.
Experts say that there is nothing wrong with a cheat day every once in a while. If you are at a wedding, enjoy a piece of that delicious cake and one or two glasses of wine. Or if you are just having a really bad day, that bowl of ice cream while watching Netflix doesn't have to completely derail your weight-loss plan. Try to plan your cheat days when you can and remember that a little indulgence is OK.
People tend to grab those not-so-healthy snacks and meals when they are rushed for time or when they are tired at the end of the work day and didn't plan ahead for dinner. It all comes down to preparation.
On the weekend, try to prepare healthy snacks and lunches to take to work or school, and have all the ingredients on hand at home for dinner to avoid the temptation to order pizza again.
One weight-loss study found that participants achieved more success when they started both dieting and exercising at the beginning of their weight-loss plans.Exercise can be as simple as a quick walk or more intense like elliptical training or playing a sport.
Stay motivated and invested in your weight-loss plan by tracking your progress and letting family and friends know what you are trying to do so they can cheer you on.
Life often is more fun and easier with a friend. So why not join a weight-loss program with a couple of them? The extra support will help keep you on track with your weight-loss goals.
"Research has shown that eating and exercise habits are greatly affected by your social network,"according toKerry J. Stewart, professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. "In other words, you're more likely to exercise and eat smaller portions if you spend time with people who do the same, and vice versa. So choose some fit and healthy friends, and get your immediate family to join you and support your healthy habits."
Nutritionists recommend a high protein breakfast to provide the proper fuel for the day ahead. Eating six smaller meals instead of three big meals throughout the day also can keep energy levels from flagging and make it tempting to reach for that hidden stash of cookies during the mid-afternoon slump.
Good snacks to keep on hand include graham crackers, oat bran, whole wheat pretzels, fruit and nuts. Stewart also suggests that people avoid foods with trans fat and limit their sugar and salt intakes.
If you still find yourself struggling with your weight-loss goals, talk to your doctor about nutrition and weight-loss programs you can join for added guidance and support.
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Here's how to stick to a weight loss plan in the new year - PhillyVoice.com
This NordicTrack treadmills immersive display made everything but the cobblestone of Bostons streets feel real and its worth every penny of its…
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I live in Michigan where for seven months a year, the weather is terrible for running. In the summer, when its supposed to be ideal, I often run as early in the day as possible to avoid heat and humidity. During its frigid winters, theres no chance of logging miles outside, no matter how bundled up I get. Because of this, I typically hang up my running shoes for the season come October.
Then the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill arrived in my home. Now, no matter the season or the weather, I can still go on an enjoyable run. From its near-endless supply of interactive workouts to the ability to create custom routes via Google Street View, the 2950 has so much to offer. I even find myself still drawn to it when its nice enough to run outside.
Read more: The best treadmills for your home gym
The treadmill also features impressive speed and incline ranges capable of adjusting in a matter of seconds, as well as a quality set of speakers. Though there are plenty of other at-home treadmills on the market, theres a lot to the 2950 that sets it apart from the competition.
The 2950 comes standard with a heart rate chest monitor and a 1-year iFit Coach subscription, which features live interactive training with elite personal trainers. The training programs allow you to either do workouts in a studio, or you can opt for the trainers to take you on runs to beautiful spots throughout the world. After the 1-year iFit trial expires, expect a $180 per year cost for an individual plan and $396 per year for a family plan (up to 5 accounts).
The treadmill measures 79 inches long, 39.2 inches wide, and 66.9 inches high. You can, however, fold the running surface in order to reduce its footprint to 41.9 inches long, 39.2 inches wide, and 70.7 inches high. The tread belt is 22 inches wide by 60 inches long, which offered plenty of room for my six-foot-tall frame and less-than-perfect running stride.
The arms on either side of the treadmill are roughly 15.5 inches long, and there are trays on either side of the console that easily fit my 1-liter water bottle. Theres also another tray beneath the display that offers plenty of room for towels, a smartphone, or other sundries. The weight capacity is 300 pounds.
The 2950 features a 4.25 continuous-duty horsepower (CHP) DurX Commercial Plus Motor, which is designed to reduce noise and avoid overheating. It also adjusts for declines of up to 3% and inclines up to 15%, and features a top speed of up to 12 miles per hour.
The frame and drive motor are each backed by lifetime warranties, while its parts carry a 5-year warranty and assembly labor a two-year warranty.
Amazon buyers get a bit of extra incentive when purchasing the NordicTrack treadmill as the price includes free delivery and assembly. The 2950 comes in a box that weighs well over 300 pounds, meaning this isnt a DIY type of project. Three men carried the box up my double L-shaped staircase before assembling the treadmill in a little over an hour. They also hauled all the packaging away.
From there, I connected the unit to the internet, which turned out to be an easy process. Next, I spent 20 minutes updating the software to the latest firmware; registration took another 15. But within an hour of the delivery crew finishing the assembly, I was hiking through a digital version of the Swiss Alps.
The treadmill sits in my office, which isnt the most spacious area of my home. Fortunately, the hydraulic system makes folding the treadmill so effortless, Im able to do it with just one hand. This frees up plenty of room and avoids turning my office into being only a treadmill room.
In the three months Ive used the NordicTrack Commercial 2950, Ive logged more than 175 miles of running. One of its highlights is its versatility of workouts. Not only are you able to either choose a workout video where you run with an instructor but it also lets you create custom courses via Google Street View. Ive even been able to use this as a way to get familiar with a new town I might travel to for work. I appreciate that the incline adjusts to accurately match the topography where Im running.
I usually listen to audiobooks while running, and I like that my phone connects to the treadmill seamlessly over Bluetooth. And, the speakers are loud enough to be heard over the fan and the thudding of my feet. When I choose to tune into the trainer, I appreciate how positive they always are. They do a good job of pushing me to keep going.
My favorite workout program is the Boston Marathon Series with Ashley Paulson. This consists of five videos that take you through the entire Boston Marathon course at a pace of about 10 minutes per mile. Ashley tells you a bit about the race as you go, chats with fellow runners, and helps keep a positive vibe along the way.
Since Im just a run-for-fun runner, I invited my friend, Ted Westbrook, a competitive distance runner, to give the treadmill a go for himself. He admitted it was among the best hes used. One aspect that particularly impressed him was how quickly the speed adjusts. After starting at a pace of 7 mph, he upped it to 12 mph and the treadmill adjusted to the new speed in under 8 seconds. As a frequent Boston Marathon finisher, Ted appreciated the machines ability to adjust the incline to match the course a feature that would be a useful training tool since the marathon starts with several declines.
I sweat a lot. Im usually pouring sweat within the first mile of a run and since I typically run roughly four miles each workout, this leaves the machine covered in perspiration. I do make a point of wiping it down after each run, but some areas are hard to get dry, such as the tray under the console. The vertical uprights even appear to have permanent streak marks from my sweat.
The user manual does recommend regularly cleaning it with a damp cloth and some mild soap, which has helped a bit. If you sweat as much as I do, you may want to consider giving it a wipe down after each use.
Though the treadmills 22-inch touchscreen display is a nice feature, the fact its unable to function as a computer monitor to stream media is unfortunate. I sometimes enjoy getting a few steps in while catching up on TV shows or watching a sporting event and was only able to do this by using my laptop and positioning it just right on the unit. Being able to do this on the screen provided would be much more convenient.
Another drawback was how the treadmill seemed to rock a bit after it was first assembled. This couldve been due to the uneven hardwood floors of my old house but to fix it, I placed a Square36 Exercise Mat under it. This not only stopped the rocking but also protected my floors from the treadmill and my buckets of sweat.
Though I had a few nitpicks, none were significant enough to steer me away from wanting to constantly use the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill when I wanted to go for a run. But, at $3,000, is it worth it?
If you have the money, then yes. With a sizable track, strong motor, large touchscreen display, and impressive workout programs, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 is a versatile and full-featured at-home treadmill. This is a particularly good investment for your health if you live in an area where the weather makes it difficult to routinely exercise outside or suitable gyms are inconvenient and expensive.
However, $3,000 may well be out of most runners budget. Fortunately, there are some ways you can save if youre willing to give up a few of its features. Though the 2950 is the top-of-the-line model in NordicTracks Commercial Series of treadmills, there are two other models which cost significantly less: The 2450 and the 1750.
The 2450 currently costs $2,299 on Amazon, but expert assembly costs an additional $112.97. It has less power than the 2950 with its 4-CHP motor, as well as a smaller screen (14 inches as opposed to 22 inches). Other than that, all its major specs are virtually identical: It has the same size track, along with the same speed and incline options. It also comes with a one-year iFit membership.
The 1750 is $1,799 right now on Amazon and includes free expert assembly, making it the cheapest option of the three. The major differences from the 2950 are its weaker (but still quite powerful) 3.75-CHP motor, its smaller 10-inch touchscreen, and the fact it only inclines to 12 percent. All other major specs are the same.
If none of the NordicTrack Commercial Series treadmills appeal to you, we encourage you to check out our guide to the best treadmills. Perhaps youre on a budget and want to consider the Horizon Fitness treadmill that only costs $600, or maybe you prefer a race-specific model like ProForm Pros 2000.
If you have the money, however, I strongly recommend considering the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill. It offers an enjoyable and convenient way to boost your cardio health when the weather outside is poor. If youre like me, you might even prefer to still run on it when its nice. Its that good.
Pros: Comes with a chest heart rate monitor and a one-year iFit membership, adjusts to speeds up to 12 mph quickly, features an incline range of -3 to 15%, comes with a lifetime warranty on frame and motor, free expert assembly
Cons: Screen is limited to workout functions and programs and cant stream personal media, requires frequent cleaning if you sweat a lot
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This NordicTrack treadmills immersive display made everything but the cobblestone of Bostons streets feel real and its worth every penny of its...
Healthy classes, events and programs – Huntington Herald Dispatch
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Families Motivating Recovery Support Group
This group offers a safe place where community members can receive support and learn more effective ways to communicate with their loved ones struggling with substance abuse. The groups are an affiliate of Kanawha Pastoral Counseling Center (KPCC) and are free and open to the public.
Meetings are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at St. Marys Conference Center, 2849 5th Ave., Huntington (304-526-1188) and 6:30 p.m. at PROACT, 800 20th St., Huntington (304-696-8715).
LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor
INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and dance to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. The cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. 304-526-1660.
LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor
INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and fitness to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. Cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. 304-526-1660.
Free Diabetic Foot Screenings
LOCATION: Wound Healing Center, 1600 Medical Center Drive, Suite 2500
INFORMATION: Do you suffer from lack of sensation, a feeling of pins and needles, or pain in your feet? If you have diabetes, regular foot screenings are important. Learn your risks at these free, five-minute screenings. More information: 304-399-3510.
Families Motivating Recovery Support Group
This group offers a safe place where community members can receive support and learn more effective ways to communicate with their loved ones struggling with substance abuse. The groups are an affiliate of Kanawha Pastoral Counseling Center (KPCC) and are free and open to the public.
Meetings are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at St. Marys Conference Center, 2849 5th Ave., Huntington (304-526-1188) and 6:30 p.m. at PROACT, 800 20th St., Huntington (304-696-8715).
LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor
INFORMATION: This free exercise class is open to all seniors. Registration is not required. More information: 304-399-7444.
LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor
INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and dance to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. The cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. More information: 304-526-1660.
LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor
INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and fitness to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. Cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. More information: 304-526-1660.
LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor
INFORMATION: This free exercise class is open to all seniors. Registration is not required. More information: 304-399-7444.
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Healthy classes, events and programs - Huntington Herald Dispatch
Five reasons to prioritise employee wellness – Foodprocessing
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Global risk management provider SAI Global is urging employers to prioritise the wellbeing of their employees, revealing five benefits of doing so.
Rod Beath, workplace safety specialist at SAI Global, reveals that while employers are accustomed to implementing changes in the business to prevent physical injuries, they are less confident when it comes to managing mental health risks.
Too often our audits have identified pressures in companies organisational matrixes led by higher management that foster environments that adversely affect employees mental health. Often those at a managerial level are not aware that the way they communicate with their staff, or exert control over work scheduling and decision-making, can inhibit a mentally healthy workplace, Beath said.
Various organisational factors can adversely affect workplace wellness and wellbeing, with management decisions having a significant impact on employees. A study by the Global Wellness Institute revealed that workforce unwellness costs the global economy 15% of its economic output each year. Organisations that meet the ISO 45001 Standard are required to consider injury and ill health, which includes the physical, mental or cognitive health of their workforce.
According to SAI Global, employers should focus on improving wellness and wellbeing in their workplace for the following reasons:
Let the results speak for themselves healthier employees tend to work harder, are happier and are generally more willing to help others be more efficient, Beath said.
Image credit: stock.adobe.com/au/Syda Productions
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Five reasons to prioritise employee wellness - Foodprocessing
Family welfare program as a union deterrent – BusinessWorld Online
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We are planning to organize a family welfare program for the spouses and children of our employees as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It is being recommended to us by our consultant who claims that such a program is helpful in preventing unions from knocking at the door of our factory. Is he correct? Faulty Experiment.
A man went to visit a psychiatrist. He said: I have two problems. The eager psychiatrist inquired, Okay, please tell me about them. The man began: Well, I think I am a vending machine. The psychiatrist sat the man right down, looked into the ceiling, and started analyzing the mans case, but he could think of nothing to say.
Finally, exasperated, the doctor took a P50 bill out of his pocket, forced it down the mans throat, grabbed him by the head, and shook him till he swallowed the money. Triumphantly, the doctor said: Okay, give me a Diet Coke.
The man replied: I cant, Doc. Thats my second problem. Im out of order.
Thats the point. The recommendation of your consultant is out of order, to say the least. He needs a psychiatrist to determine the extent of his mental illness. Your consultants recommendation is one of those being used by incompetent people who would use underhanded tactics to undermine labor rights in the same manner that they continue to practice endo hiring.
The Family Welfare Program (FWP) is a legal mandate administered by the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) of companies with at least 200 employees. The objective is to improve workplace productivity and labor-management relations, among other related issues. When implementing the FWP, private organizations must consider various dimensions:
These include reproductive health, responsible parenthood, early childhood education, gender equality, spirituality, value formation, livelihood, nutrition, health care, nutrition, environmental protection, hygiene and sanitation, sports and leisure, housing and transportation.
I tried to refresh my memory by visiting the online pages of the Department of Labor and Employments BWSC, but I was thwarted by a notice that its website is not a secure connection.
Anyway, I dont deny that at times, the sophisticated use of FWP may be misinterpreted by some people to be an effective deterrent against the formation of trade unions. After all, if the employees families are enamored with the many family-oriented programs of an organization, who would bother to rock the boat by forming a union?
Clearly, your management consultant has a malicious intent in prescribing FWP as a union deterrent. It may be considered a double-edge sword, except that he missed one important program that of establishing a Community Relations Program (CRP) in tandem with the FWP. These two programs can become a potent tool for harmonious and dynamic employee-employer relations, but not intended to thwart union formation, which is an inherent labor right.
Go ahead and implement FWP and CRP minus the intended purpose of your consultant. Instead, consult the labor department on how you can implement those twin programs through a reasonable and legal procedure. Take note that without FWP, your company can be cited by labor inspectors for violating labor standards.
In the meantime, I suggest that your management consider the following broad rules to ensure a sound working relations with the workers and their families.
One, be fair and treat all workers equally. Avoid favoritism even with your hardest-working people. Of course, there are some people who by nature are more likeable than others, but as part of the management team you have to avoid showing your bias by treating everyone with respect and dignity, even if it appears difficult. Management sincerity, especially if done consistently by likeable line managers, can disarm the most difficult people.
Two, be flexible in dealing with employee concerns. There could be many times that you are tempted to simply dismiss an issue by telling the complaining workers that a certain policy is covered by management prerogative. Dont even think about it. Instead of hiding under this legal protection, exercise care by patiently explaining why a certain policy must be done for the good of the majority and that of the organization.
Three, show concern for the employees and their families. Try to understand the problem from their perspective. This should help you deal with difficulties from an angle that could be used to reconcile them with management interest. If you treat people well, how can they betray your management? If youre being portrayed as an employee champion, how can they put up a hostile position against you?
Last, display a continuing interest in your subordinates families. This can only be done one-on-one by line supervisors and managers. Remember at least the name and birthday of the employees spouse. This is easy to do when you invite their spouses to the companys Christmas party, anniversary celebration, including events where model workers are recognized and rewarded for their milestones.
In conclusion, note that all of these can only be done with the proactive assistance of individual line executives. The CEO or any high-ranking executive cannot do this alone. As long as these executives present themselves as employee mentors, labor-management relations can go a long way, with or without a union.
After all, as a general rule, the employees right to organize and maintain a union also includes the right of every worker not to join a union.
ELBONOMICS: If you want to improve, you need to start with the basic rules.
Send anonymous workplace questions to elbonomics@gmail.com or via https://reyelbo.consulting
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Family welfare program as a union deterrent - BusinessWorld Online