The Thanksgiving and Christmas period is known for its ability to bust diets, increase waists, and send exercise routines to the couch. But, it doesn't have to be this way.
An article in the December Glamour issue titled "Don't diet - eat!," went through the different drink and food options so that we would know exactly how many calories we were consuming (not exactly information we want to think about while we're having fun, but worthwhile knowledge if we think about the long-run).
So, here's what they said:
Starting at the bar:
- light beer and wine are the best everyday drinks, with just 100 calories each (if you stick to the serving limits - 12-oz. for beer and 4-oz. for wine).
- champagne is the best special occasion drink, with just 85 calories per 4-oz. glass (why they didn't put this as the best everyday drink too, I'm not sure. I drink it year-round and I think it's great because it gives you a good buzz, and in my experience, is less likely than wine to give you a hangover, and also I think it tastes better).
- hot buttered rum is the best Christmas drink, with 220 calories per 8-oz. glass. (As an FYI, eggnog with brandy can pack up to 460 calories).
Now, to the food:
- mashed potato is better than candied sweet potato, because sweet potato often has both the butter and the sweet stuff, so one cup can have up to 500 calories.
- turkey gravy is better than cranberry sauce - 80 calories per half cup, compared to 180 calories. (They didn't say why, but I'm assuming it's because the cranberry sauce is filled with sugar).
- pumpkin pie (270 calories) is better than apple pie (350 calories), which is better than pecan pie (700 calories!).
And here's a few tips of my own:
- Keep up your exercise routine (I know a lot of people go to gyms during the year, and then don't have access to one when they go and visit families). But, in this instance, instead walk or run. I tell everyone to run - and most people basically tell me, "Nah, you're crazy," but they have to admit it is the most convenient form of exercise. All you need is a pair of running shoes, any workout gear, and a good running bra (if you're a girl).
- If you're going to go crazy with the alcohol, go a little easier on the junk food.
- And finally, eat and drink whatever you want on the actual days of celebration, and then try and eat fairly normally on all the in-between days.
Overall though, I say have a good time. I watched an Oprah episode over the summer, and the guest speaker (I think it was Dr. Oz, but I'm not sure), said that the average weight gain over the holiday period is only a pound. Now, that's not even worth worrying about.
So have a Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Red Lipstick To Kill?
OK, here's a post for the ladies (and the closet drags).
Apparently, there is a rumor out there that some brands of red lipstick contain potentially harmful levels of lead, a known neurotoxin. Now why it is just red lipstick that is targeted, I'm not sure.
But, anyway, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, decided to test to see if this were in fact true.
What they found was that one third of the 33 red lipsticks they tested showed lead levels greater than 0.1 parts per million (the federal limit for candy). A full report of the study is available here.
However, don't immediately put away your sexy red lippy, because as critics from the FDA, point out, you're not ingesting lipstick, like you are candy, so it is like comparing the caffeine levels in skin moisturisor to the caffeine levels in coffee.
Therefore, while future studies might say otherwise, for now you can flaunt your red lipstick as much as you want, and feel perfectly safe while doing so.
Apparently, there is a rumor out there that some brands of red lipstick contain potentially harmful levels of lead, a known neurotoxin. Now why it is just red lipstick that is targeted, I'm not sure.
But, anyway, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, decided to test to see if this were in fact true.
What they found was that one third of the 33 red lipsticks they tested showed lead levels greater than 0.1 parts per million (the federal limit for candy). A full report of the study is available here.
However, don't immediately put away your sexy red lippy, because as critics from the FDA, point out, you're not ingesting lipstick, like you are candy, so it is like comparing the caffeine levels in skin moisturisor to the caffeine levels in coffee.
Therefore, while future studies might say otherwise, for now you can flaunt your red lipstick as much as you want, and feel perfectly safe while doing so.
The Economics of Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is something you can't live without - well, unless you're willing to try some other cleansing method, which I doubt.
So, most people just chalk it up as a necessity, and don't think much about how much they consume, and therefore how much they spend on it.
But, like anything else, it is something you can scrimp on.
Now, I'm not suggesting you rip a square in half or anything, but there are ways you can use a little less.
The first scrimping technique is to change the way you use toilet paper.
According to Dave Praeger, the author of "Poop Culture: How America Is Shaped By Its Grossest National Product", toilet-paper-users fall into two categories - folders and scrunchers (the former being the most economical).
He asserts that while scrunching is more time-efficientl, folding is more cost-efficient, because you get a greater surface area, and therefore need less squares to get the "job done," so to speak.
In case you were wondering, I am a scruncher - I simply don't put that much thought into what I'm doing. Maybe I will change this now (but probably not).
Another scrimp technique you can try is to use the cheap, scratchy brands. You will likely save at least $50 a year.
However, I'm not sure how willing people are to put their butt through the sandpaper routine, especially when as Praeger says, sometimes the expensive brand is better, because if people use more of the scratchy stuff to compensate for the roughness of it, then they might as well just buy the expensive brand.
So, really, what I got from this article, was that it is possible to save money on toilet paper, but only if you are willing to put more time into wiping your butt, and less thought into how soft and comfortable the experience is for you.
As one of my roommates said, "I buy store-brand everything, but I always buy "Northern Quilt."
I personally buy store-brand - it doesn't bother me much (as long as it is double-ply). However, I realize that I am probably de-sensitized to cheap toilet paper since in my first year of college, my roommates and I would steal rolls of single-ply from the school bathrooms (we needed money to go out!)
So, anyway, I guess the take home message is do what works for you, but if you find yourself low on cash, toilet paper is something you can save on.
So, most people just chalk it up as a necessity, and don't think much about how much they consume, and therefore how much they spend on it.
But, like anything else, it is something you can scrimp on.
Now, I'm not suggesting you rip a square in half or anything, but there are ways you can use a little less.
The first scrimping technique is to change the way you use toilet paper.
According to Dave Praeger, the author of "Poop Culture: How America Is Shaped By Its Grossest National Product", toilet-paper-users fall into two categories - folders and scrunchers (the former being the most economical).
He asserts that while scrunching is more time-efficientl, folding is more cost-efficient, because you get a greater surface area, and therefore need less squares to get the "job done," so to speak.
In case you were wondering, I am a scruncher - I simply don't put that much thought into what I'm doing. Maybe I will change this now (but probably not).
Another scrimp technique you can try is to use the cheap, scratchy brands. You will likely save at least $50 a year.
However, I'm not sure how willing people are to put their butt through the sandpaper routine, especially when as Praeger says, sometimes the expensive brand is better, because if people use more of the scratchy stuff to compensate for the roughness of it, then they might as well just buy the expensive brand.
So, really, what I got from this article, was that it is possible to save money on toilet paper, but only if you are willing to put more time into wiping your butt, and less thought into how soft and comfortable the experience is for you.
As one of my roommates said, "I buy store-brand everything, but I always buy "Northern Quilt."
I personally buy store-brand - it doesn't bother me much (as long as it is double-ply). However, I realize that I am probably de-sensitized to cheap toilet paper since in my first year of college, my roommates and I would steal rolls of single-ply from the school bathrooms (we needed money to go out!)
So, anyway, I guess the take home message is do what works for you, but if you find yourself low on cash, toilet paper is something you can save on.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Drunk Bladders Can Burst
A new risk of binge drinking - a burst bladder - is becoming increasingly common among women, according to a report in the British Medical Journal, printed here on the BBC website.
This adverse side effect of drinking was previously only being reported in men.
Apparently, a bladder can burst if it is overly full - if you're wasted, you don't realize that you need to pee, so you keep consuming alcohol and then BANG, your bladder pops, and you have to have surgery to sew it back together.
Physicians once thought only men could have a burst bladder because since they have a longer urethra than women, they need more pressure to get the urine out of the bladder. Which, I guess means, that it is easier for men to not realize that they need to go. (They thought women would simply "leak").
But, now that women are coming into hospitals with burst bladders, that reasoning has been discarded.
I should point out that you don't actually feel a BANG, you just get an intense lower abdominal pain. This symptom is synonymous with appendicitis and urinary tract infections, so it is commonly misdiagnosed.
Therefore, the message of this little report is that you need to keep peeing if you're going to drink large amounts of liquid (alcohol). And also maybe that if you're so drunk that you don't know when you need to pee, it might be time to scale back.
This adverse side effect of drinking was previously only being reported in men.
Apparently, a bladder can burst if it is overly full - if you're wasted, you don't realize that you need to pee, so you keep consuming alcohol and then BANG, your bladder pops, and you have to have surgery to sew it back together.
Physicians once thought only men could have a burst bladder because since they have a longer urethra than women, they need more pressure to get the urine out of the bladder. Which, I guess means, that it is easier for men to not realize that they need to go. (They thought women would simply "leak").
But, now that women are coming into hospitals with burst bladders, that reasoning has been discarded.
I should point out that you don't actually feel a BANG, you just get an intense lower abdominal pain. This symptom is synonymous with appendicitis and urinary tract infections, so it is commonly misdiagnosed.
Therefore, the message of this little report is that you need to keep peeing if you're going to drink large amounts of liquid (alcohol). And also maybe that if you're so drunk that you don't know when you need to pee, it might be time to scale back.
IMG Field Trip
Yesterday, our class caught a gigantic bus to the IMG/Bollettieri Academy, and spent about four hours touring around the slick, grown-up, yet kiddie-infested complex.
I played tennis for a long time as a child/teen, and I had heard of the Bollettieri part of the academy when I was growing up, so it was fun seeing what it would have been like if I had had a million dollars to spend on my tennis "career" back then (and been good enough), and thus been able to go to the academy. One guy I went to school with actually did go to there, but I wasn't friends with him, so I never really heard what it was like.
So, yesterday was my chance. And I was not disappointed. It is a beautiful facility, with a great staff (although, they were not all great speakers). "The trainer," was especially bad (well, overly technical), but I think part of that was that he obviously assumed we were aspiring trainers too - I don't think anybody would refer to a journalistic interviewee as a "client."So, he gave us the most difficult running drills to try and do (trust me, we did not do the simple butt-kick or anything. We did ballet-inspired, plyometrics).
Anyway, one talk that I did enjoy was with these two former actors. They led the "game on" aspect of the program, which basically teaches sports stars, or wannabe sports stars, to not bore everyone with their talk about their training, their sports performance, and their diet. They need to have "coins" (interests, personal qualities, something fascinating to say), so that people will want to be friends with them, and so that they don't look like stupid jocks when the media interviews them.
Another point of this class was to teach them to think of these other things they have going for them when they're under pressure (e.g. matchpoint), so that they won't choke. Instead, they will be able to relax and think this isn't the most important thing in my life, the game that will decide if I get a multi-million dollar sponsor, the game that will decide if my pushy "helicopter parent" loves me, but instead will be able to think I have ordinary qualities (like enjoying the beach) that are just as important as my sporting achievement. Or so the theory goes. Whether this works for everyone, I'm not sure, but it was the most entertaining part of the day.
The nutritionist was a bit of a let-down (not that she didn't clearly know her stuff), but she talked about how she gives her clients real-life translations of what 30 percent protein looks like, but we got nothing more than a statistical analysis.
The sports psychologist was interesting (well, the quiz we took was fun), but he didn't really give us any information about his job. I wanted to hear the advice he gave Pete Sampras or Anna Kournikova or something. But, maybe because we arrived late (despite having a GPS, we got lost), so I will give him the benefit of the doubt and assume that if we had had more time, he would have given us some interesting tit-bits.
Anyway, despite a lot of it being a bit elitist and technical, I really did enjoy the day, and I can see how for a teenager, or a professional athlete, it would be an amazing thing to experience on a daily basis.
I played tennis for a long time as a child/teen, and I had heard of the Bollettieri part of the academy when I was growing up, so it was fun seeing what it would have been like if I had had a million dollars to spend on my tennis "career" back then (and been good enough), and thus been able to go to the academy. One guy I went to school with actually did go to there, but I wasn't friends with him, so I never really heard what it was like.
So, yesterday was my chance. And I was not disappointed. It is a beautiful facility, with a great staff (although, they were not all great speakers). "The trainer," was especially bad (well, overly technical), but I think part of that was that he obviously assumed we were aspiring trainers too - I don't think anybody would refer to a journalistic interviewee as a "client."So, he gave us the most difficult running drills to try and do (trust me, we did not do the simple butt-kick or anything. We did ballet-inspired, plyometrics).
Anyway, one talk that I did enjoy was with these two former actors. They led the "game on" aspect of the program, which basically teaches sports stars, or wannabe sports stars, to not bore everyone with their talk about their training, their sports performance, and their diet. They need to have "coins" (interests, personal qualities, something fascinating to say), so that people will want to be friends with them, and so that they don't look like stupid jocks when the media interviews them.
Another point of this class was to teach them to think of these other things they have going for them when they're under pressure (e.g. matchpoint), so that they won't choke. Instead, they will be able to relax and think this isn't the most important thing in my life, the game that will decide if I get a multi-million dollar sponsor, the game that will decide if my pushy "helicopter parent" loves me, but instead will be able to think I have ordinary qualities (like enjoying the beach) that are just as important as my sporting achievement. Or so the theory goes. Whether this works for everyone, I'm not sure, but it was the most entertaining part of the day.
The nutritionist was a bit of a let-down (not that she didn't clearly know her stuff), but she talked about how she gives her clients real-life translations of what 30 percent protein looks like, but we got nothing more than a statistical analysis.
The sports psychologist was interesting (well, the quiz we took was fun), but he didn't really give us any information about his job. I wanted to hear the advice he gave Pete Sampras or Anna Kournikova or something. But, maybe because we arrived late (despite having a GPS, we got lost), so I will give him the benefit of the doubt and assume that if we had had more time, he would have given us some interesting tit-bits.
Anyway, despite a lot of it being a bit elitist and technical, I really did enjoy the day, and I can see how for a teenager, or a professional athlete, it would be an amazing thing to experience on a daily basis.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Paula Radcliffe wins the NY Marathon
Paula Radcliffe, the British runner who holds the world record in the women's marathon (2.15!), this weekend won the NY marathon - after giving 
birth to her daughter (Isla) just ten months ago.
This is even more remarkable when you consider that since her pregnancy she has had two severe over-use injuries (a stress fracture in her lower back, and an inflammation of the capsule surrounding one of the bones in her forefoot).
What made this win possible, however, was that being pregnant for nine months and spending weeks injured, did not stop her from training.
According to this article, for the first five months of pregnancy, Paula ran twice a day, 75 minutes in the morning, and 30 to 45 minutes in the evening. As her birth date drew nearer, she cut back and ran an hour in the morning, and did the stationary bike at night.
This sounds like a lot (for a pregnant woman, especially), but for Paula it was an easy load. She was careful to keep her heart rate below 160 beats a minute, and thus was able to complete her runs without much trouble.
Most pregnant women could not do what Paula did, but most can still do quite a lot of exercise.
A couple of decades ago, exercising during pregnancy was a big no-no, but these days it is accepted and even encouraged.
The key thing is to listen to your body and not do anything too too intense. This article provides some good tips for pregnant women who want to run through their pregnancy, but the basic idea is just that "listen to your body."
birth to her daughter (Isla) just ten months ago.This is even more remarkable when you consider that since her pregnancy she has had two severe over-use injuries (a stress fracture in her lower back, and an inflammation of the capsule surrounding one of the bones in her forefoot).
What made this win possible, however, was that being pregnant for nine months and spending weeks injured, did not stop her from training.
According to this article, for the first five months of pregnancy, Paula ran twice a day, 75 minutes in the morning, and 30 to 45 minutes in the evening. As her birth date drew nearer, she cut back and ran an hour in the morning, and did the stationary bike at night.
This sounds like a lot (for a pregnant woman, especially), but for Paula it was an easy load. She was careful to keep her heart rate below 160 beats a minute, and thus was able to complete her runs without much trouble.
Most pregnant women could not do what Paula did, but most can still do quite a lot of exercise.
A couple of decades ago, exercising during pregnancy was a big no-no, but these days it is accepted and even encouraged.
The key thing is to listen to your body and not do anything too too intense. This article provides some good tips for pregnant women who want to run through their pregnancy, but the basic idea is just that "listen to your body."
Dr. Oz
OK, so I will confess, I am quite the Oprah fan. Not so huge that I'll rearrange my plans to watch her show, but just big enough that I wouldn't consider watching anything else on TV when her show is on. So, when I heard that our class was having a teleconference with Dr. Oz (Oprah's doctor, in case you didn't know), I was pretty excited. I think I have seen every Oprah episode in which he has appeared, so even though I missed the class where we watched his show "Most Embarrassing Questions," I felt prepared, because of course I had already seen it.
Plus, I had my question ready.
A group of us (all girls) had gone out to lunch the previous day, and this query had come up: "Is it true that you can get pregnant and then still have up to two periods, so that you'd be about three months pregnant before you knew it?"
The answer (in case you were wondering), is that it is possible, but very unlikely. And your period would be different to how it normally was, so that would be a clue that something was up. So, there we go. Burning question answered.
In addition to answering questions like mine (although, most of the questions were very journalism orientated - a bit more serious, I guess), Dr. Oz also gave us a few tidbits of other information to chew on.
The ones that stuck out to me, were that:
- One third of the time, your doctor will give you a wrong diagnosis. (Isn't that scary? I will be much more wary now of what the doctor tells me - although, I admit, I rarely go to the doctor anyway. But if I do...).
- If you take six or more medications on a daily basis (including over the counter medication), you have a 94% chance of having a drug to drug interaction. (Now, I don't often take pills - except for calcium supplements and the occasional ibuprofen. But other members of my family take a colorful assortment everyday, so I will be checking with them to see just how many they do take. Dr. Alex is on a mission!).
- People who exercise (especially as they get older) have better skin tone, because the skin can't "rust." (I exercise a lot- I run for nearly an hour five times a week, and I take my pup on multiple little works, so this is good to know).
- Only you can be the world's best expert on your own body (this actually is something I did know, since running coaches have been telling me this for years - "you have to listen to your body." But since it's been a few years since I had a running coach, it was nice to be reminded of this).
- People who write better, communicate better (as an aspiring journalist, this was a bit of "feel-good" news for the day, because I like to think that I can write, so therefore must be a lucid communicator).
There was lots of other good stuff that he said too, but that was what ressonated with me. If you want more Dr. Oz, I'm sure he'll be reappearing on Oprah sometime in the future. Talk shows; you've got to love 'em.
Plus, I had my question ready.
A group of us (all girls) had gone out to lunch the previous day, and this query had come up: "Is it true that you can get pregnant and then still have up to two periods, so that you'd be about three months pregnant before you knew it?"
The answer (in case you were wondering), is that it is possible, but very unlikely. And your period would be different to how it normally was, so that would be a clue that something was up. So, there we go. Burning question answered.
In addition to answering questions like mine (although, most of the questions were very journalism orientated - a bit more serious, I guess), Dr. Oz also gave us a few tidbits of other information to chew on.
The ones that stuck out to me, were that:
- One third of the time, your doctor will give you a wrong diagnosis. (Isn't that scary? I will be much more wary now of what the doctor tells me - although, I admit, I rarely go to the doctor anyway. But if I do...).
- If you take six or more medications on a daily basis (including over the counter medication), you have a 94% chance of having a drug to drug interaction. (Now, I don't often take pills - except for calcium supplements and the occasional ibuprofen. But other members of my family take a colorful assortment everyday, so I will be checking with them to see just how many they do take. Dr. Alex is on a mission!).
- People who exercise (especially as they get older) have better skin tone, because the skin can't "rust." (I exercise a lot- I run for nearly an hour five times a week, and I take my pup on multiple little works, so this is good to know).
- Only you can be the world's best expert on your own body (this actually is something I did know, since running coaches have been telling me this for years - "you have to listen to your body." But since it's been a few years since I had a running coach, it was nice to be reminded of this).
- People who write better, communicate better (as an aspiring journalist, this was a bit of "feel-good" news for the day, because I like to think that I can write, so therefore must be a lucid communicator).
There was lots of other good stuff that he said too, but that was what ressonated with me. If you want more Dr. Oz, I'm sure he'll be reappearing on Oprah sometime in the future. Talk shows; you've got to love 'em.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Decaf Coffee Not So DeCaf
I have never really gotten the point of decaffeinated coffee, probably because I feel like the point of coffee is that it has caffeine in it and will therefore wake you up/keep you awake. If you don't want that, then I think "why would you drink coffee at all?"
The only reasons I can come up with are that you want to "look" like you are drinking coffee when you can't actually consume caffeine (maybe you're hiding a pregnancy? or the doc has given you a caffeine ban), or because your host offers you coffee after dinner and you don't want caffeine right before bed, but you don't want to appear rude so you accept, or you are trying to ween yourself off coffee and are using decaf as a poor substitute.
If those are your reasons (or if you have another one, let me know), then this article on the caffeine levels in decaf might be a bit disheartening for you. But, I will tell you about it anyway.
Here we go: Undercover coffee cops from Consumer Reports recently tested 36 cups of decaf coffee brewed at Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, Seattle's Best Coffee, 7-Eleven, McDonald's and Burger King, and found the caffeine levels in some of the cups to be surprisingly high.
A normal full-caffeine packed coffee has between 85 and 100 milligrams of caffeine, and most decafs have less than five milligrams - but not all. One decaf from Dunkin' Donuts had 32 milligrams of caffeine (the same as a can of coke classic), a cup of Seattle's Best had 29 milligrams of caffeine, and a tall cup of Starbucks had nearly 21 milligrams
Now, I don't think anyone expects a decaf cup of coffee to be completely caffeine-free, but I think most people assume that they come a lot closer than that (and most do). But, what this study really demonstrates is that the decaf process is unreliable, so while sometimes you're going to get a near perfect decaf, other times it might provide a little buzz than you would like.
In response to this study, I want to say "don't drink decaf, drink the real thing," but I realize that this is a little harsh - there may come a time when I find myself having to drink decaf. So, instead I will say, "Be aware that coffee is coffee, and coffee has caffeine, so even decaf has the potential to keep you awake."
The only reasons I can come up with are that you want to "look" like you are drinking coffee when you can't actually consume caffeine (maybe you're hiding a pregnancy? or the doc has given you a caffeine ban), or because your host offers you coffee after dinner and you don't want caffeine right before bed, but you don't want to appear rude so you accept, or you are trying to ween yourself off coffee and are using decaf as a poor substitute.
If those are your reasons (or if you have another one, let me know), then this article on the caffeine levels in decaf might be a bit disheartening for you. But, I will tell you about it anyway.
Here we go: Undercover coffee cops from Consumer Reports recently tested 36 cups of decaf coffee brewed at Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, Seattle's Best Coffee, 7-Eleven, McDonald's and Burger King, and found the caffeine levels in some of the cups to be surprisingly high.
A normal full-caffeine packed coffee has between 85 and 100 milligrams of caffeine, and most decafs have less than five milligrams - but not all. One decaf from Dunkin' Donuts had 32 milligrams of caffeine (the same as a can of coke classic), a cup of Seattle's Best had 29 milligrams of caffeine, and a tall cup of Starbucks had nearly 21 milligrams
Now, I don't think anyone expects a decaf cup of coffee to be completely caffeine-free, but I think most people assume that they come a lot closer than that (and most do). But, what this study really demonstrates is that the decaf process is unreliable, so while sometimes you're going to get a near perfect decaf, other times it might provide a little buzz than you would like.
In response to this study, I want to say "don't drink decaf, drink the real thing," but I realize that this is a little harsh - there may come a time when I find myself having to drink decaf. So, instead I will say, "Be aware that coffee is coffee, and coffee has caffeine, so even decaf has the potential to keep you awake."
Sleep Issues: Try These Solutions?
Women's Health recently ran an article reviewing different natural sleep remedies as an alternative to prescription pills like "Ambien." Considering that Ambien has got a bad rap for producing some pretty weird side-effects (think night binges, freaky night phone calls, sleep-walking and talking; all of which are forgotten the next morning), this article sounded like a good idea. However, as someone who frequently has problems getting to sleep, the natural alternatives they came up with seemed a little weak.
The first one was "Bach Flower Remedies Rescue Sleep," a six-flower essence that you spray on your tongue before getting into bed. The spray is supposed to produce a calming effect that lulls you to sleep. The magazine tester said, "After spraying this stuff under my tongue, I became so focused on the taste and aroma that I stopped worrying about my to-do list." Maybe that is truly what she thought, but I'm pretty sure that would not have been my reaction. If I had a disgusting taste sitting in my mouth, I would fixate on that, and then that would be the reason I couldn't sleep.
The second one was "Sleep Garden zMovie," an hour-long DVD of a Pacific coast sunset designed to send you straight to la-la land. The magazine tester, this time, said, "I could stay up all night watching "Weeds," but the muted nature scenes were so hypnotic, I was out in 15 minutes." Now to this product's credit, the blue light from the TV (which can inhibit production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your sleep cycle), was eliminated from the DVD, but I'm still skeptical of its sleep-inducing efficacy. Maybe I'm weird, but I've never fallen asleep while watching TV or a movie or anything, so I highly doubt that this would put me to sleep. The remaining light of the DVD would probably still annoy me (light is one of my sleep paranoias - I have two blankets taped to my window), as would the DVD sounds.
The third product Women's Health tested was "Dreamerz All Natural Sleep Beverages," a creamy milk-based, melatonin containing liquid. The tester said, "After a week of drinking a hot mug every night, I was able to fall asleep in half an hour." Considering that it contains melatonin, I can see how this might work. But, If I drank a mug of anything right before I went to bed, I would have to get up to pee in the middle of the night, for sure.
The final product they looked at was "Johnson & Johnson Melt Away Stress Body Lotion," a moisturizer infused with a blend of calming fragrances. The tester said, "My fiance slathered lotion on my feet and calves while I breathed in the soft, not over-whelming, scent. How could I help but feel relaxed?" To be honest, I thought this was the lamest product of the lot. A moisturizer? No. That would not put me to sleep.
Looking back on this I think I've portrayed myself as a crazy insomniac, when really I'm not. Unless I am majorly stressed, I don't have a problem putting away deadlines and whatever else is on my mind. My problem (and maybe this is why those natural remedies wouldn't work for me) is not stress per se, but rather stress about my environment. I'm very sensitive to any light or sound. And the room has to be nice and cold for me to get to sleep. (I swear I'm the most annoying person to sleep with, because I seriously think I would sleep best in a cold, dark, isolated cave). But since this isn't really an option, instead I have three fans in my room, earplugs, and blankets on my windows. Haha - I don't know how hubby puts up with me.
The first one was "Bach Flower Remedies Rescue Sleep," a six-flower essence that you spray on your tongue before getting into bed. The spray is supposed to produce a calming effect that lulls you to sleep. The magazine tester said, "After spraying this stuff under my tongue, I became so focused on the taste and aroma that I stopped worrying about my to-do list." Maybe that is truly what she thought, but I'm pretty sure that would not have been my reaction. If I had a disgusting taste sitting in my mouth, I would fixate on that, and then that would be the reason I couldn't sleep.
The second one was "Sleep Garden zMovie," an hour-long DVD of a Pacific coast sunset designed to send you straight to la-la land. The magazine tester, this time, said, "I could stay up all night watching "Weeds," but the muted nature scenes were so hypnotic, I was out in 15 minutes." Now to this product's credit, the blue light from the TV (which can inhibit production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your sleep cycle), was eliminated from the DVD, but I'm still skeptical of its sleep-inducing efficacy. Maybe I'm weird, but I've never fallen asleep while watching TV or a movie or anything, so I highly doubt that this would put me to sleep. The remaining light of the DVD would probably still annoy me (light is one of my sleep paranoias - I have two blankets taped to my window), as would the DVD sounds.
The third product Women's Health tested was "Dreamerz All Natural Sleep Beverages," a creamy milk-based, melatonin containing liquid. The tester said, "After a week of drinking a hot mug every night, I was able to fall asleep in half an hour." Considering that it contains melatonin, I can see how this might work. But, If I drank a mug of anything right before I went to bed, I would have to get up to pee in the middle of the night, for sure.
The final product they looked at was "Johnson & Johnson Melt Away Stress Body Lotion," a moisturizer infused with a blend of calming fragrances. The tester said, "My fiance slathered lotion on my feet and calves while I breathed in the soft, not over-whelming, scent. How could I help but feel relaxed?" To be honest, I thought this was the lamest product of the lot. A moisturizer? No. That would not put me to sleep.
Looking back on this I think I've portrayed myself as a crazy insomniac, when really I'm not. Unless I am majorly stressed, I don't have a problem putting away deadlines and whatever else is on my mind. My problem (and maybe this is why those natural remedies wouldn't work for me) is not stress per se, but rather stress about my environment. I'm very sensitive to any light or sound. And the room has to be nice and cold for me to get to sleep. (I swear I'm the most annoying person to sleep with, because I seriously think I would sleep best in a cold, dark, isolated cave). But since this isn't really an option, instead I have three fans in my room, earplugs, and blankets on my windows. Haha - I don't know how hubby puts up with me.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Cooking Oil: Which One Is Best?
I'm not much of a cook. Not that I can't cook - I just don't particularly enjoy it; I cook so that I'm not hungry anymore. My husband, on the other hand, is a fantastic cook, and takes great pleasure in everything and anything that is culinary related. So, over time I've gradually picked up a mild interest in cooking too, which is why I find myself reading articles like "What's the Healthiest Oil to Cook With?"
What is the answer to this burning question you might ask? Well it depends on what you mean by "healthy." If you're going to go by calories, then all vegetables oils are basically the same: 120 calories per tablespoon serving. But if you're going to look at heart health, then not all oils are created equal.
All olive oils (and canola oil) are good for your heart because they help reduce unhealthy "LDL" cholesterol (a substance that in excess can lead to heart attacks) and boost healthy "HDL" cholesterol (a substance that can decrease your chance of getting a heart attack); but extra-virgin olive oil has an edge.
It might be the priciest oil of the lot, but new research suggests that this particular olive oil is the best, because it hasn't gone through any chemical processing (the only processing it's gone through is a mechanical pressing of the olives), which means that it's still rich in the natural antioxidant, polyphenol.
This article provides information on why antioxidants are so good, but basically what they do is remove molecules from our body that we don't need, and thus make our cells, and therefore our bodies, healthier and happier.
So, next time you're cooking (I know that might not be too often), consider splurging on extra-virgin olive oil. Your body will thank you for it.
What is the answer to this burning question you might ask? Well it depends on what you mean by "healthy." If you're going to go by calories, then all vegetables oils are basically the same: 120 calories per tablespoon serving. But if you're going to look at heart health, then not all oils are created equal.
All olive oils (and canola oil) are good for your heart because they help reduce unhealthy "LDL" cholesterol (a substance that in excess can lead to heart attacks) and boost healthy "HDL" cholesterol (a substance that can decrease your chance of getting a heart attack); but extra-virgin olive oil has an edge.
It might be the priciest oil of the lot, but new research suggests that this particular olive oil is the best, because it hasn't gone through any chemical processing (the only processing it's gone through is a mechanical pressing of the olives), which means that it's still rich in the natural antioxidant, polyphenol.
This article provides information on why antioxidants are so good, but basically what they do is remove molecules from our body that we don't need, and thus make our cells, and therefore our bodies, healthier and happier.
So, next time you're cooking (I know that might not be too often), consider splurging on extra-virgin olive oil. Your body will thank you for it.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Birth Control for 11 Year Olds
OK, as I'm sure you've heard by now, or read by now- in Portland, Maine, girls who are just 11 years old can get birth control without their parents' consent. Shock horror.
As usual, the media has majorly over-sensationalized this snippet of news, simply because it involves young girls and sex. But, you know, at 12 years old, girls can get birth control pills without parental consent, so really what is one year?
I've been doing a lot of research lately on sexual behaviors amongst young girls, and I have come to the overwhelming conclusion, that whether we like it or not, girls are having sex - or oral sex, really young these days, so why not make sure that at least they don't get pregnant?
It's not like making birth control available is going to make these girls go out and have sex. There is no evidence to suggest that. At all.
In fact, I think, 11 years old is probably the perfect age to make birth control readily available to girls, because after all, this is the age at which they are being targeted for the HPV vaccine. Therefore, if they are going to be protected against an STD, shouldn't they also be targeted against getting pregnant?
Clearly, not every 11 year old girl is having sex ( a study by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy and the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, showed that 80 percent of middle school kids were not having sex), so it's not like there is suddenly going to be this massive rush to fill birth control prescriptions for this age group. But, some girls are getting pregnant at this age, so doesn't it make sense for at-risk girls to be able to go and get birth control without much hassle?
I wasn't having sex at 11 years old, but if I was, I know that I wouldn't have told my parents. I don't think I even told them when I kissed a boy, so I sure wouldn't have gone up and asked them if they could sign a form letting me go pick out a form of birth control. Who does that?!
The Lofton High School here in Gainesville frequently has middle school girls in their program, which works with girls who are pregnant, and the co-ordinator says that these girls really could be anyone - they are just like other teenagers who think they are bulletproof. Additionally, especially if these girls are going out with older guys, at 11 years old - really at any age, it is hard to stop in the middle of sex and be like 'hey, so where's your condom?' At least, if the girls were on birth control, they wouldn't get pregnant.
You might not personally agree with the decision to make birth control readily available to 11 year old girls, but is it really harming you for it to be available? I don't think so. Also, you have to remember this is just one decision by one school district in one state. It's not like it's going to affect the lives of every 11 year old girl in America.
As usual, the media has majorly over-sensationalized this snippet of news, simply because it involves young girls and sex. But, you know, at 12 years old, girls can get birth control pills without parental consent, so really what is one year?
I've been doing a lot of research lately on sexual behaviors amongst young girls, and I have come to the overwhelming conclusion, that whether we like it or not, girls are having sex - or oral sex, really young these days, so why not make sure that at least they don't get pregnant?
It's not like making birth control available is going to make these girls go out and have sex. There is no evidence to suggest that. At all.
In fact, I think, 11 years old is probably the perfect age to make birth control readily available to girls, because after all, this is the age at which they are being targeted for the HPV vaccine. Therefore, if they are going to be protected against an STD, shouldn't they also be targeted against getting pregnant?
Clearly, not every 11 year old girl is having sex ( a study by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy and the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, showed that 80 percent of middle school kids were not having sex), so it's not like there is suddenly going to be this massive rush to fill birth control prescriptions for this age group. But, some girls are getting pregnant at this age, so doesn't it make sense for at-risk girls to be able to go and get birth control without much hassle?
I wasn't having sex at 11 years old, but if I was, I know that I wouldn't have told my parents. I don't think I even told them when I kissed a boy, so I sure wouldn't have gone up and asked them if they could sign a form letting me go pick out a form of birth control. Who does that?!
The Lofton High School here in Gainesville frequently has middle school girls in their program, which works with girls who are pregnant, and the co-ordinator says that these girls really could be anyone - they are just like other teenagers who think they are bulletproof. Additionally, especially if these girls are going out with older guys, at 11 years old - really at any age, it is hard to stop in the middle of sex and be like 'hey, so where's your condom?' At least, if the girls were on birth control, they wouldn't get pregnant.
You might not personally agree with the decision to make birth control readily available to 11 year old girls, but is it really harming you for it to be available? I don't think so. Also, you have to remember this is just one decision by one school district in one state. It's not like it's going to affect the lives of every 11 year old girl in America.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Hedda Fruit Update
So as you can see from these pictures, pineapple did not make the list of acceptable fruits. Nor did raspberries (even with sweetener) or pears.
However, despite these setbacks, there has been some progress. Hedda now voluntarily buys apple slices to snack on throughout the week. So, while apples may be one of the only fruits she likes, they are something she's happy to eat whenever, so that is fantastic!
The pluot (half apricot, half plum) was suggested as the next fruit to try, so maybe that will be the next fruit challenge.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Does Exercise Make Us Svelte?
I think it is fair to say that almost everyone correlates weight loss - or at least weight maintenance, with the amount of exercise they do. In fact, I think it is probably the main reason people bother to get their bodies moving at all. Sure, there are other benefits too - you feel better, it relieves stress, gives you something to be proud of, but these are really just little perks for most of us. The big motivator is weight loss - which is why this article is so shocking.
Essentially, it asserts that despite popular belief, there is really no scientific evidence to support the notion that exercise leads to weight loss. No. Instead, it is apparently a simple case of biology. If your body wants you to be fat, you will be. If your body wants you to be thin, you will be.
The way this works is that if someone is programmed to be thin, their body will naturally want to exercise more to burn off the calories they consumed, and vice versa. Even if someone who is programmed to be fat exercises as much as a person programmed to be thin, they will never be as thin as the "naturally thin" person because their fat cells don't want to let go of their food.
Another component to this argument of the failure to lose weight through exercise, is that exercise makes us hungry, so we eat more when we exercise, and less when we don't. Considering that exercise really doesn't burn all that many calories (This site allows you to see how many calories you burn for different exercises), I can see how exercise might not be a miracle weight loss solution.
However, in my own experience, I've always been able to maintain my weight while eating a lot when I exercise. Every time, I've had a major injury and have been laid off for months, I've gained a little weight. Part of this might be that I think I was used to eating a lot with running, so even when I wasn't running, I would still want the same amount of food. I think it takes a while for your appetite to adjust to being sedentary, and a while to get into a new eating routine. Additionally, when I'm exercising regularly I'm more motivated to eat healthily as well. So I think it's probably true that your eating habits play a role in whether exercise works for you as a weight loss tool.
I understand the argument against exercise leading to weight loss, but I think despite the evidence, it can still be an effective weight loss/weight maintenance tool, if only for the fact that you can eat more, and eat a little crappier, without immediately putting on weight, because no matter how unsubstantial the calories burned through exercise are, there are still some calories burned.
So, while this article might be a little depressing, I wouldn't suddenly quit exercise as a weight loss tool. After all, it is still true that exercise revs up your metabolism at least some. And the more muscle you build through exercise, the leaner you will be. This other article goes into that a bit more.
So, I say find an exercise you enjoy, and as Nike says "just do it."
Essentially, it asserts that despite popular belief, there is really no scientific evidence to support the notion that exercise leads to weight loss. No. Instead, it is apparently a simple case of biology. If your body wants you to be fat, you will be. If your body wants you to be thin, you will be.
The way this works is that if someone is programmed to be thin, their body will naturally want to exercise more to burn off the calories they consumed, and vice versa. Even if someone who is programmed to be fat exercises as much as a person programmed to be thin, they will never be as thin as the "naturally thin" person because their fat cells don't want to let go of their food.
Another component to this argument of the failure to lose weight through exercise, is that exercise makes us hungry, so we eat more when we exercise, and less when we don't. Considering that exercise really doesn't burn all that many calories (This site allows you to see how many calories you burn for different exercises), I can see how exercise might not be a miracle weight loss solution.
However, in my own experience, I've always been able to maintain my weight while eating a lot when I exercise. Every time, I've had a major injury and have been laid off for months, I've gained a little weight. Part of this might be that I think I was used to eating a lot with running, so even when I wasn't running, I would still want the same amount of food. I think it takes a while for your appetite to adjust to being sedentary, and a while to get into a new eating routine. Additionally, when I'm exercising regularly I'm more motivated to eat healthily as well. So I think it's probably true that your eating habits play a role in whether exercise works for you as a weight loss tool.
I understand the argument against exercise leading to weight loss, but I think despite the evidence, it can still be an effective weight loss/weight maintenance tool, if only for the fact that you can eat more, and eat a little crappier, without immediately putting on weight, because no matter how unsubstantial the calories burned through exercise are, there are still some calories burned.
So, while this article might be a little depressing, I wouldn't suddenly quit exercise as a weight loss tool. After all, it is still true that exercise revs up your metabolism at least some. And the more muscle you build through exercise, the leaner you will be. This other article goes into that a bit more.
So, I say find an exercise you enjoy, and as Nike says "just do it."
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Puppy Depression
My husband is deploying to Iraq soon, so he's driving our puppy - Mimi - down this weekend, to come and live with me. Anyway, that's why I have dogs on my brain at the moment, so this post is about the depression dogs face when their owners go back to school or work or whatever takes them away from the house for extended periods of time.
When I was back in Louisiana for the summer, Mimi (she's half corgi, half aussie shephard), was such a needy little puppy that it seemed like she got sad if you were away from her for like five minutes. So, since I found out Mimi was going to come stay with me, I've wondered how she'll handle being left alone for hours while I'm at school or doing other stuff.
According to this article, it's not unusual for dogs to get depressed when their owners suddenly leave them for extended amounts of time - especially when they're young. A lot of it has to do with breaking their routine. Animals are routine-oriented, so if they're used to you being at home watching TV all morning, it really throws them when you're not there to do that.
Luckily, there are ways to to prevent your pup's separation-anxiety. Experts suggest:
-leaving the room for varying periods of time, until they learn that you'll always come back.
-keeping your departures matter-of-fact, so it doesn't seem like a big deal when you walk out the door.
-having them perform a command, such as sit, then giving them a treat before you leave.
Of course, these tricks don't always work. So if your dog gets depression, you have to take action.
Interestingly enough, exercise - a remedy that is also suggested for us - is often the most effective way to help your dog get over its depression. Exercise gets the endorphins flowing, and makes your dog feel good.
Another suggested method for easing separation-anxiety is to leave them a shirt or something of yours, so they can smell your scent, and be comforted by it when you're gone. (This tip was suggested to me, while my husband was in Afghanistan, which goes to show how alike we are to our canine friends).
If none of these things work (including waiting it out), then it may be time for more drastic measures. Puppy Prozac is being prescribed more and more to heal dogs who are down in the dumps.
I don't think Mimi will need that, but I will be sure to give her lots of exercise.
I'll let you know how the move goes.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Marion Jones Scandal
Marion Jones, the infamous U.S female sprinter, who stunned the crowds at the Sydney Olympics, winning three gold medals, and two bronze medals, yesterday admitted that she had taken steroids.
I can't say that I am surprised - but, I am sad.
I remember watching her win race after race and being amazed at just how amazing she was. Everyone around me was like "Oh she must be on steroids," but I was like "Maybe she's just good. Everyone who's good always gets suspected of taking drugs, but maybe she's just good." So, now I feel duped.
She had been under suspicion for a long time, but she had always so strongly denied it that I refused to believe it. She even sued Victor Conte, the founder of BALCO (Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative) - the lab at the center of the steroids scandal in professional sports, for repeatedly accusing her of taking steroids.
In August, last year, she tested positive for EPO - a drug used in blood doping, but she was cleared when a subsequent test came back negative.
Now, she says she took steroids several times before and after the Sydney Olympics.
Her defense is that she thought she was taking flaxseed oil. It wasn't until November 2003, she says, that she knew she was taking performance-enhancing drugs.
If this is true, then I think there is something wrong with the relationship she had between her and her coach. How can you not know what you're putting inside your body? And if the coach is trying to get her to win at all costs, he is just as bad as a pushy mom trying to live through her daughter. Actually he reminds me of a beauty pageant mom.
Jones is expected to be stripped of all her Olympic medals, and spend at least six months in jail for lying to federal investigators.
Prosecutors say the only good thing to come out of it is that maybe it will act as a further dis-incentive to not take performance-enhancing drugs.
The saddest part of all this is that I don't know if I'll ever trust an amazing athlete again. I will forever be a skeptic.
For more information, this article provides a lot of background information on the case, and is really comprehensive of Jone's revelation.
I can't say that I am surprised - but, I am sad.
I remember watching her win race after race and being amazed at just how amazing she was. Everyone around me was like "Oh she must be on steroids," but I was like "Maybe she's just good. Everyone who's good always gets suspected of taking drugs, but maybe she's just good." So, now I feel duped.
She had been under suspicion for a long time, but she had always so strongly denied it that I refused to believe it. She even sued Victor Conte, the founder of BALCO (Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative) - the lab at the center of the steroids scandal in professional sports, for repeatedly accusing her of taking steroids.
In August, last year, she tested positive for EPO - a drug used in blood doping, but she was cleared when a subsequent test came back negative.
Now, she says she took steroids several times before and after the Sydney Olympics.
Her defense is that she thought she was taking flaxseed oil. It wasn't until November 2003, she says, that she knew she was taking performance-enhancing drugs.
If this is true, then I think there is something wrong with the relationship she had between her and her coach. How can you not know what you're putting inside your body? And if the coach is trying to get her to win at all costs, he is just as bad as a pushy mom trying to live through her daughter. Actually he reminds me of a beauty pageant mom.
Jones is expected to be stripped of all her Olympic medals, and spend at least six months in jail for lying to federal investigators.
Prosecutors say the only good thing to come out of it is that maybe it will act as a further dis-incentive to not take performance-enhancing drugs.
The saddest part of all this is that I don't know if I'll ever trust an amazing athlete again. I will forever be a skeptic.
For more information, this article provides a lot of background information on the case, and is really comprehensive of Jone's revelation.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Friends with Benefits- All it's cracked up to be?
"Friends with Benefits" appears to be a fairly common sexual arrangement these days. But is it really the fantastic strings-free, whenever I want it, sex relationship it's supposed to be?
Apparently not.
A study, conducted among Michigan State University students, found that actually they can be quite awkward relationships.
The survey results (which were distributed to 125 students) show that many people in such arrangements worry that one or the other will actually fall for the person. Additionally, these friends who could once talk about anything, now feel awkward talking about sex and their relationship.
This article goes into it more, but my reaction is that "well yeah, what did you expect?" Of course, sex makes your friendship complicated- how could it not?
But I guess it could work if you absolutely clear that it was not going to lead into something else- but then how would you know that?
I don't know. Maybe you would get better perspective from talking to one of your friends who was in this arrangement- according to this study most college students have been in a relationship like this at least once.
Apparently not.
A study, conducted among Michigan State University students, found that actually they can be quite awkward relationships.
The survey results (which were distributed to 125 students) show that many people in such arrangements worry that one or the other will actually fall for the person. Additionally, these friends who could once talk about anything, now feel awkward talking about sex and their relationship.
This article goes into it more, but my reaction is that "well yeah, what did you expect?" Of course, sex makes your friendship complicated- how could it not?
But I guess it could work if you absolutely clear that it was not going to lead into something else- but then how would you know that?
I don't know. Maybe you would get better perspective from talking to one of your friends who was in this arrangement- according to this study most college students have been in a relationship like this at least once.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Goodbye Headphones: Hello Speakers
Almost everyone I know (myself included) wears an I-pod with headphones while they workout. To me, it's a relaxing way to workout and it lets me take my mind off the exercise itself.
But, like all things good, listening to music while exercising outside, is not without its pitfalls. If the music is loud enough to block out interim noise like traffic and car-horns (and lets face it, if it's not, then you probably can't hear the music properly), then it can make us less aware of what's going on around us, and thus make us more prone to being hit by a car, or overcome by a crazy stalker.
It was for these reasons that "Safe Sound Sports Speakers" were developed. The little speakers attach to your running shirt, or hang loosely like a neck bandana. They're waterproof and cost just $19.99.
The product information also goes on to say that these speakers offer great sound quality. But I have to be skeptical of that, because even when I have earphones in my ears, if a loud truck or something drives past, I can't hear my music.
Still, the speakers seem like a good idea, particularly if you run alone. Runners World offers other tips to improve running safety, such as running with a dog, and running in safe, well-lit, public places with minimal danger. Here's a complete list of safety tips.
My other concern with these speakers is that other people can hear your music. So, if you were to workout in a small area like a track, then you could potentially annoy a lot of people.
The other day, I was on a small plane from Atlanta to Alexandria, LA., and there was this old guy playing a computer game on his laptop with the sound levels right up- and no headphones. It was very irritating.
However, if safety is something you're concerned about, then maybe these speakers are something you could try. They come with a one-year warranty, so if you don't like them, just send them back!
But, like all things good, listening to music while exercising outside, is not without its pitfalls. If the music is loud enough to block out interim noise like traffic and car-horns (and lets face it, if it's not, then you probably can't hear the music properly), then it can make us less aware of what's going on around us, and thus make us more prone to being hit by a car, or overcome by a crazy stalker.
It was for these reasons that "Safe Sound Sports Speakers" were developed. The little speakers attach to your running shirt, or hang loosely like a neck bandana. They're waterproof and cost just $19.99.
The product information also goes on to say that these speakers offer great sound quality. But I have to be skeptical of that, because even when I have earphones in my ears, if a loud truck or something drives past, I can't hear my music.
Still, the speakers seem like a good idea, particularly if you run alone. Runners World offers other tips to improve running safety, such as running with a dog, and running in safe, well-lit, public places with minimal danger. Here's a complete list of safety tips.
My other concern with these speakers is that other people can hear your music. So, if you were to workout in a small area like a track, then you could potentially annoy a lot of people.
The other day, I was on a small plane from Atlanta to Alexandria, LA., and there was this old guy playing a computer game on his laptop with the sound levels right up- and no headphones. It was very irritating.
However, if safety is something you're concerned about, then maybe these speakers are something you could try. They come with a one-year warranty, so if you don't like them, just send them back!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Hedda's Fruit Fiesta
This week Hedda bought green grapes to try, but she actually ended up feasting on a range of fruit at a work breakfast. So she exceeded the challenge expectations by eating apples, pears, and red and green grapes.
She said her favorite were the green grapes she'd tried in the grocery store.
This week she's in the Bahama's so maybe she'll get to try some fresh tropical fruit.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Functional Fitness
I've been injured several times.
I've torn my right calf muscle twice, I've had plantar fasciitis, I've had a stress fracture in my lower femur, and I've had a green-stick fracture in my wrist- (that one was from being a klutz, and tripping over myself while running for a drop-shot in tennis. However, I did still manage to win the national double championships with my fiberglass cast, because our opponents couldn't figure out what we were doing when we continuously swapped sides so I wouldn't have to hit a backhand).
Anyway, my point is that because of these injuries I've seen many physio therapists, sports doctors, and massage therapists. One thing that every one of these people has told me is that being strong is about strengthening the little muscles that no-one can see- not the vanity muscles like biceps and pecs.
This is what I was thinking about when our class was told about functional fitness at the Gainesville Health and Fitness Center, Thursday.
The trainer said that the exercises we do in the gym should serve a purpose in everyday life. That is, they should help us climb stairs without holding onto the rail, they should help our posture when we sit in chairs all day long, and they should make our whole body more balanced and strong.
Essentially, this means our exercise regime should utilize the six primal movement patterns- squat, lunge, push, pull, twist, and bend.
I like the idea of "primal movements" because- I don't know if she meant it like this or not- but to me it means not having to go to the gym to get in a good workout. I love to run outdoors, and bike around. But I'm incredibly lazy when it comes to going to the gym and working out on the various weight machines. If I feel like I'm getting weaker, I'll start doing push-ups or I'll do various balancing exercises that I've made up by standing in front of the mirror. If I'm feeling particularly ambitious, I'll even do some squats, as well as some physio exercises I've learnt over the years to strengthen my core.
Functional fitness is the "in" thing at gyms these days. But beside being cool, it is also very practical. This article talks about utilizing the primal movements by doing things like lifting a basket of laundry, carrying bags of groceries to the car, and moving while holding awkward objects.
When you workout, you should think about the practical things that you need to do in life, such as picking up a dog, taking out the trash, or moving a table. And then think about how you can strengthen and balance your whole body so you don't throw out your back or pull a muscle. This article explains it more.
I'm not trying to be corny, but you don't just want to look strong, you want to be strong.
I've torn my right calf muscle twice, I've had plantar fasciitis, I've had a stress fracture in my lower femur, and I've had a green-stick fracture in my wrist- (that one was from being a klutz, and tripping over myself while running for a drop-shot in tennis. However, I did still manage to win the national double championships with my fiberglass cast, because our opponents couldn't figure out what we were doing when we continuously swapped sides so I wouldn't have to hit a backhand).
Anyway, my point is that because of these injuries I've seen many physio therapists, sports doctors, and massage therapists. One thing that every one of these people has told me is that being strong is about strengthening the little muscles that no-one can see- not the vanity muscles like biceps and pecs.
This is what I was thinking about when our class was told about functional fitness at the Gainesville Health and Fitness Center, Thursday.
The trainer said that the exercises we do in the gym should serve a purpose in everyday life. That is, they should help us climb stairs without holding onto the rail, they should help our posture when we sit in chairs all day long, and they should make our whole body more balanced and strong.
Essentially, this means our exercise regime should utilize the six primal movement patterns- squat, lunge, push, pull, twist, and bend.
I like the idea of "primal movements" because- I don't know if she meant it like this or not- but to me it means not having to go to the gym to get in a good workout. I love to run outdoors, and bike around. But I'm incredibly lazy when it comes to going to the gym and working out on the various weight machines. If I feel like I'm getting weaker, I'll start doing push-ups or I'll do various balancing exercises that I've made up by standing in front of the mirror. If I'm feeling particularly ambitious, I'll even do some squats, as well as some physio exercises I've learnt over the years to strengthen my core.
Functional fitness is the "in" thing at gyms these days. But beside being cool, it is also very practical. This article talks about utilizing the primal movements by doing things like lifting a basket of laundry, carrying bags of groceries to the car, and moving while holding awkward objects.
When you workout, you should think about the practical things that you need to do in life, such as picking up a dog, taking out the trash, or moving a table. And then think about how you can strengthen and balance your whole body so you don't throw out your back or pull a muscle. This article explains it more.
I'm not trying to be corny, but you don't just want to look strong, you want to be strong.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Shut the (noise) up
When I lived on campus at the start of my undergraduate degree, I would go insane with all the noise swirling around- my roommates talking late at night, the TV, the neighbor's banging on the wall, the other neighbor's playing music- it seemed like there was a never-ending supply of noise. I'll admit that I was pretty paranoid about it because I was getting up at 6.30am for cross-country practice, but still- it was noisy.
Then I discovered fans and earplugs. They saved my sleep.
This article looks at other ways to block out noise for the sake of our sleep. As I'm sure you've heard by now, sleep is like the cure of all evils, so if noise is what's keeping you up, it is worth reading about and finding a solution that works for you.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, people consistently rate noise above traffic, crime, and other social problems, as a primary reason for wanting to move (which, I can totally understand).
Experts tips for reducing noise include:
1) Block off any opening where air can get in. If air is getting in, noise can too.
2) Use white noise- water fountains, fans, little machines that spit out soothing bird chirping, or cds designed to do the same job, are all options that can work.
3) Make friends with the neighbors- don't go and tell the neighbor's that they're crappy people because they're so noisy. Instead, make friends with them and they will more likely respect you and be a little quieter (mind games- see, they do work).
4) Earplugs- I personally endorse this one. I just have one tip- if you're sleeping with someone, put the earplugs in when you've said your goodnights and everything, because it's kind of annoying to half hear that he/she loves you.
Also, not all earplugs are created equal. This link provides you with one guy's rating test.
5) Try acoustic barriers or soundproofing blankets- this one sounds a little extreme, but if nothing else works, then maybe try this.
Hopefully this list helps with anyone of you that are having sleep problems because of noise. By the way, "noise" comes from the Latin word "nausea." Interesting to know.
Then I discovered fans and earplugs. They saved my sleep.
This article looks at other ways to block out noise for the sake of our sleep. As I'm sure you've heard by now, sleep is like the cure of all evils, so if noise is what's keeping you up, it is worth reading about and finding a solution that works for you.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, people consistently rate noise above traffic, crime, and other social problems, as a primary reason for wanting to move (which, I can totally understand).
Experts tips for reducing noise include:
1) Block off any opening where air can get in. If air is getting in, noise can too.
2) Use white noise- water fountains, fans, little machines that spit out soothing bird chirping, or cds designed to do the same job, are all options that can work.
3) Make friends with the neighbors- don't go and tell the neighbor's that they're crappy people because they're so noisy. Instead, make friends with them and they will more likely respect you and be a little quieter (mind games- see, they do work).
4) Earplugs- I personally endorse this one. I just have one tip- if you're sleeping with someone, put the earplugs in when you've said your goodnights and everything, because it's kind of annoying to half hear that he/she loves you.
Also, not all earplugs are created equal. This link provides you with one guy's rating test.
5) Try acoustic barriers or soundproofing blankets- this one sounds a little extreme, but if nothing else works, then maybe try this.
Hopefully this list helps with anyone of you that are having sleep problems because of noise. By the way, "noise" comes from the Latin word "nausea." Interesting to know.
Monday, September 24, 2007
HIV Vaccine Trial Flops
The latest trial testing out a potential HIV vaccine in humans has flopped.
Drug maker Merck & Co. (who developed Gardasil- the HPV vaccine) said Friday that it was stopping enrollment and vaccination of volunteers taking part in the international study because the HIV vaccine being tested was clearly not doing its job.
24 of 741 volunteers who got the vaccine eventually became infected with HIV. 21 of 762 participants getting dummy shots also became infected with HIV (most of the volunteers were homosexual men or female prostitutes).
The Merck vaccine was the first to test a new strategy to prevent HIV infection by trying to get the body's immune system to make more killer T-cells to fight off the virus (HIV essentially destroys the immune system, which is why people who die of AIDS actually die from something else like pneumonia).
When the AIDS virus first made an outbreak in America in the '80s, I don't think anyone anticipated how difficult it would be to develop a vaccine for this. But, part of the problem is that HIV/AIDS is such a complicated disease, and the medical profession is still trying to understand exactly how it works.
So in the meantime, we just have to be extra careful about using condoms, and putting a cap on our sexual activity.
As a side-note- and this is positive- circumcision has been linked to a reduced risk of HIV transmission. To find out more, read this.
So boys, if you're not already circumcised, maybe that could be an option too. From what I've heard, the surgery doesn't keep you down for long (condoms still need to be used, though).
Here's a link to more information about the HIV vaccine study.
Hedda and the (Fake) Cherry
This week Hedda didn't actually go out and buy a new fruit- we were both out of town at different times so we never really got the fruit date together. So to make up for it, she ate the fake cherry out of her drink on Friday night.She didn't like it, but those things are pretty artificial so I don't know that they're really representative of the real thing.
So maybe this week's challenge will be real cherries?
Monday, September 17, 2007
Art Therapy- Not Just In The Movies
When I saw the headline "Using Crayons To Exorcise Katrina" in the health section of the New York Times, I was interested. In almost every psychological thriller I've seen- The Ring and The Sixth Sense, to name a couple- I see the messed-up kid drawing a distorted image of something in their life. So, I wanted to know if this was what the article was about. And essentially it was...
The article talks about how a traditional house with a pointy roof, a square body, and boxed in windows and a door is a common piece of art drawn by kids.
Artwork by kids affected by Hurricane Katrina, however, is a little different. Karla Leopold, an art therapist from California, noticed that these children were drawing the house as a triangle- the house morphed from a place of safety to one that focused on the roof.
The drawings are coming out of art sessions conducted at the Renaissance Village- a large trailer park for Katrina evacuees, in Baker, Louisiana.
Therapists assert that these drawings illustrate the anxiety, fear, and trauma that has resulted from the whole experience of Hurricane Katrina.
Art therapists use the creative process to help their clients increase insight and judgment, cope with stress, work through traumatic experiences, increase cognitive abilities, have better relationships with family and friends, and to just be able to enjoy life more.
The article talks about how a traditional house with a pointy roof, a square body, and boxed in windows and a door is a common piece of art drawn by kids.
Artwork by kids affected by Hurricane Katrina, however, is a little different. Karla Leopold, an art therapist from California, noticed that these children were drawing the house as a triangle- the house morphed from a place of safety to one that focused on the roof.
The drawings are coming out of art sessions conducted at the Renaissance Village- a large trailer park for Katrina evacuees, in Baker, Louisiana.
Therapists assert that these drawings illustrate the anxiety, fear, and trauma that has resulted from the whole experience of Hurricane Katrina.
Art therapists use the creative process to help their clients increase insight and judgment, cope with stress, work through traumatic experiences, increase cognitive abilities, have better relationships with family and friends, and to just be able to enjoy life more.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Going back to the Baby Diet
I haven't done an intense track workout for a few years now, but I still have friends who compete, so I like to keep up with what's new in the world of running.
So when I came across this article in the New York Times (reg. required) I was interested. Basically it says that Pedialyte, a nutrition drink aimed at toddlers, is starting to become popular with athletes as a recovery drink.
The article credits long distance runners with starting the trend in the 1980s but says that it's now collecting a devoted following amongst other amateur and professional athletes, including Tom Glavine, a star pitcher of the New York Mets.
Pedialyte is traditionally used as a recovery drink for toddlers experiencing diarrhea, but it's main ingredients- sodium, pottasium and glucose, are also the main ingredients of sports drinks.
So, if Gatorade doesn't do it for you, maybe it's time to give Pedialyte a try.
As an added bonus- it's neon-tinted and comes in kid friendly flavors like grape.
So when I came across this article in the New York Times (reg. required) I was interested. Basically it says that Pedialyte, a nutrition drink aimed at toddlers, is starting to become popular with athletes as a recovery drink.
The article credits long distance runners with starting the trend in the 1980s but says that it's now collecting a devoted following amongst other amateur and professional athletes, including Tom Glavine, a star pitcher of the New York Mets.
Pedialyte is traditionally used as a recovery drink for toddlers experiencing diarrhea, but it's main ingredients- sodium, pottasium and glucose, are also the main ingredients of sports drinks.
So, if Gatorade doesn't do it for you, maybe it's time to give Pedialyte a try.
As an added bonus- it's neon-tinted and comes in kid friendly flavors like grape.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Hedda and the Strawberry
This week's challenge was berries! She actually went all out and tried both strawberries and blueberries, and both were a success.Strawberries are her favorite fruit so far. She didn't like the blueberries as much, but only because they weren't that flavorful (I think it's the end of the season, because I tried a few and they did lack their usual tang).
Other Hedda news is that she just ordered the children's book "Gregory the Terrible Eater," to learn other ways to improve her eating habits.
I think this fruit eating experiment has inspired her to revamp her diet.
Although maybe we should work on vegetables too. Hedda actually takes the time to strain her salsa so she doesn't accidentally consume a tiny piece of onion or pepper.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Non-Smokers Rejoice
For non-smokers, the ban on smoking in public places is probably worth it just for the fact that you don't have to smell it, inhale it, and then smell it again on your clothes when you get home.
But a study in Scotland- the most detailed study so far- has shown that peoples health is actually improving as a result of the cleaner air in public places.
You can read the whole article here, but basically what they found was that exposure to second hand smoke is down by 40 percent amongst adults and children where the ban is in effect, and it is actually helping their heart health. A comparison of nine hospitals showed that there has been a 17 percent year-on-year drop in heart attack admissions since the ban went into place in March 2006.
It is yet to be determined if there are similar effects in the U.S where similar bans have been enacted, but I see no reason why it shouldn't be the same here. Although, because there is no federal ban, the public areas that are actually banned vary greatly by state.
In Florida, as I'm sure you've noticed, you can still smoke in bars- unless food accounts for more than 10 percent of the establishment's sales. Guess we won't be getting more than chips and dip to eat in most places!
If you want to see the bans in other states, check out this link.
But a study in Scotland- the most detailed study so far- has shown that peoples health is actually improving as a result of the cleaner air in public places.
You can read the whole article here, but basically what they found was that exposure to second hand smoke is down by 40 percent amongst adults and children where the ban is in effect, and it is actually helping their heart health. A comparison of nine hospitals showed that there has been a 17 percent year-on-year drop in heart attack admissions since the ban went into place in March 2006.
It is yet to be determined if there are similar effects in the U.S where similar bans have been enacted, but I see no reason why it shouldn't be the same here. Although, because there is no federal ban, the public areas that are actually banned vary greatly by state.
In Florida, as I'm sure you've noticed, you can still smoke in bars- unless food accounts for more than 10 percent of the establishment's sales. Guess we won't be getting more than chips and dip to eat in most places!
If you want to see the bans in other states, check out this link.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Here we go again!
After years of tedious debate, last year the Morning After Pill otherwise known as Plan B was finally allowed to be sold over the counter here in the U.S. (It had already been readily available in New Zealand, Australia, and Europe for a long time).
For those of you who don't know, the Morning After Pill if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex can reduce your chance of getting pregnant by 89 percent. The chances are even better if taken within 24 hours.
Since its debut on the market it has been enormously popular.
But now, once again, critics of the drug are trying their best to take it off the market again.
This article goes into the details.
To me, this is just selfish. Their reasoning is that it is making teens more promiscuous- the drug is available to those age 18 or up- as they can have a back-up plan that is simpler than abortion.
These claims have not been substantiated. Granted, nor have claims that it will reduce the abortion rate. But it has only been one year. (By the way, the morning after pill is not a form of abortion, as some people would like you to believe). It works by preventing the pregnancy from happening in the first place.
It's called "Plan B" for a reason. It shouldn't be your primary use of birth control, but it should be there in case of an emergency.
How is it hurting anyone to have that option?
For those of you who don't know, the Morning After Pill if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex can reduce your chance of getting pregnant by 89 percent. The chances are even better if taken within 24 hours.
Since its debut on the market it has been enormously popular.
But now, once again, critics of the drug are trying their best to take it off the market again.
This article goes into the details.
To me, this is just selfish. Their reasoning is that it is making teens more promiscuous- the drug is available to those age 18 or up- as they can have a back-up plan that is simpler than abortion.
These claims have not been substantiated. Granted, nor have claims that it will reduce the abortion rate. But it has only been one year. (By the way, the morning after pill is not a form of abortion, as some people would like you to believe). It works by preventing the pregnancy from happening in the first place.
It's called "Plan B" for a reason. It shouldn't be your primary use of birth control, but it should be there in case of an emergency.
How is it hurting anyone to have that option?
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Hedda and the Peach
This weeks challenge was the peach. Here's how it went:Hedda: So..um..do I just eat it like an apple?
Me: Yes, just like an apple.
Hedda: (Screwing up her face) Ugh..It's furry. I feel like I should be petting it.
Me: Well, it's a peach. If you don't like the fuzz, maybe we should have tried a nectarine.
Hedda: Yeah I don't like the peach. (Takes a few more bites) Maybe it will grow on me.
1/5 of the way through, she stopped eating.
Next weeks fruit is going to have to be fuzz-free. What do you suggest?
Monday, September 3, 2007
Mold causes depression?
A recent study in the American Journal of Public Health revealed that there may be a correlation between mold in homes and depression.
Apparently the mold toxins get into your brain, affect your emotions, and make you depressed.
Hmm...yeah?...I'm skeptical. Who lives in a moldy home and is ok with that?
Mold has always grossed me out because it reminds me of the moldy bread experiments we did in elementary. And moldy cheese? I don't go there.
After Hurricane Rita (I used to live in Lake Charles, LA) the wall of my bedroom was destroyed, so with the hot, sticky climate pouring in, and no power- so no A/C, I had some nice patches of mold going on. It was disgusting. I cleaned, and my room smelled like bleach for days. I was paranoid that it would grow back and cause my lungs to collapse or something.
Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is ok maybe mold does get into your brain and cause depression, but I think you have to be messed up on some level to let mold grow freely in your home. Maybe the people who reported depressive symptoms after living in moldy homes were depressed before the mold started to grow.
Unsurprisingly, the correlation between mold and depression is still up for debate.
This article goes into it a bit more.
Apparently the mold toxins get into your brain, affect your emotions, and make you depressed.
Hmm...yeah?...I'm skeptical. Who lives in a moldy home and is ok with that?
Mold has always grossed me out because it reminds me of the moldy bread experiments we did in elementary. And moldy cheese? I don't go there.
After Hurricane Rita (I used to live in Lake Charles, LA) the wall of my bedroom was destroyed, so with the hot, sticky climate pouring in, and no power- so no A/C, I had some nice patches of mold going on. It was disgusting. I cleaned, and my room smelled like bleach for days. I was paranoid that it would grow back and cause my lungs to collapse or something.
Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is ok maybe mold does get into your brain and cause depression, but I think you have to be messed up on some level to let mold grow freely in your home. Maybe the people who reported depressive symptoms after living in moldy homes were depressed before the mold started to grow.
Unsurprisingly, the correlation between mold and depression is still up for debate.
This article goes into it a bit more.
Friday, August 31, 2007
My Fruit Prodigy
Ok, this is a photo of my roommate eating an apple. It might seem like a pretty bleh photo, but it's actually pretty groundbreaking.Hedda is the worst eater I know (no offense...) and she never eats fruit and vegetables because she says they all taste gross.
So, we're having a little challenge while I do this blog to see how many fruit and vegetables she can try and actually like.
The apple is the first step, and she thinks she could incorporate the apple into her life. Her only concern is that they take so many bites to eat, and they juice all over your hands- but she likes the apple.
Next week's challenge is probably peaches, but she's open to other suggestions...
Thursday, August 30, 2007
The Obesity Epidemic
Shows like "The Biggest Loser," and "Celebrity Fit Club," routinely create heart-wrenching miracles- through excessive exercise, and low calorie diets their contestants lose weight. The newly buffs then procede to make comments like, "If I can lose weight, then anyone can lose weight." Well..not quite.
I get the feeling that these shows are supposed to inspire viewers to get off the couch- take that first step, eat an apple, and remove Domino's from their speed dial- but with the best trainers and nutritionists barking at the contestants all day long, their situations are hardly normal. In fact, it would be more of a miracle if they didn't lose weight.
The latest obesity figures are out, and 31 states showed an increase in their rates of obesity. None decreased. Mississippi became the first state to have more than 30 percent of its residents be officially obese. So I guess "The Biggest Loser" and "Celebrity Fit Club" are not so inspiring after all.
But, then again obviously none of the other million messages out there are either.
We all know that eating healthier and exercising more is the way to lose weight, but either the message is getting lost, or people just aren't hearing it. Or they don't care that they are obese.
I think part of it is just that here in America it is so easy to get fat. There is drive-through everything (In NZ there is drive-thru at fast food chains, but that's it), there is sooo much junk food and it's everywhere, and it seems to be fairly normal to eat crappy and not exercise. I don't want to make it sound like NZ is this perfectly healthy country, but I think being fat is a little less socially acceptable there than it is here. Which of course brings me to other study that recently came out about how our fat friends are making it ok for us to be fat too.
Anyway, clearly obesity is became this crazy epidemic, which is causing other crazy epidemics like diabetes and heart disease- even in kids, so we do need to do something.
As a closing remark, I'll add this because I thought it was quite funny- I was watching Oprah oneday over summer and she had a doctor come on and tell people (I guess the message was for men) that for every 30 lbs they lost, they would gain on inch on their penis.
Something to think about...
Links: The article on increasing obesity rates (includes a state-by-state map so you can see how your state did). Read it
The article about how our friends are making us fat. Read it.
I get the feeling that these shows are supposed to inspire viewers to get off the couch- take that first step, eat an apple, and remove Domino's from their speed dial- but with the best trainers and nutritionists barking at the contestants all day long, their situations are hardly normal. In fact, it would be more of a miracle if they didn't lose weight.
The latest obesity figures are out, and 31 states showed an increase in their rates of obesity. None decreased. Mississippi became the first state to have more than 30 percent of its residents be officially obese. So I guess "The Biggest Loser" and "Celebrity Fit Club" are not so inspiring after all.
But, then again obviously none of the other million messages out there are either.
We all know that eating healthier and exercising more is the way to lose weight, but either the message is getting lost, or people just aren't hearing it. Or they don't care that they are obese.
I think part of it is just that here in America it is so easy to get fat. There is drive-through everything (In NZ there is drive-thru at fast food chains, but that's it), there is sooo much junk food and it's everywhere, and it seems to be fairly normal to eat crappy and not exercise. I don't want to make it sound like NZ is this perfectly healthy country, but I think being fat is a little less socially acceptable there than it is here. Which of course brings me to other study that recently came out about how our fat friends are making it ok for us to be fat too.
Anyway, clearly obesity is became this crazy epidemic, which is causing other crazy epidemics like diabetes and heart disease- even in kids, so we do need to do something.
As a closing remark, I'll add this because I thought it was quite funny- I was watching Oprah oneday over summer and she had a doctor come on and tell people (I guess the message was for men) that for every 30 lbs they lost, they would gain on inch on their penis.
Something to think about...
Links: The article on increasing obesity rates (includes a state-by-state map so you can see how your state did). Read it
The article about how our friends are making us fat. Read it.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Introduction
Hi all!!
Welcome to my Health and Fitness blog! It's always nice to know the person behind the writing (and the picture) so I'll start by giving you a little intro to myself.
Just briefly, I'm 23, halfway through a master's degree in journalism here at the University of Florida- my undergraduate degree is also in journalism, and I'm from New Zealand.
I get asked all the time why I would ever leave New Zealand because it's so beautiful- Lord of the Rings, in particular, upped the frequency of these kinds of questions- but I was offered a full track scholarship to run for McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, so off I went. Who would turn down the chance to study and run and experience a new country for free?!
I've always been involved in sport and I think that is why health and fitness interests me so much. I started playing tennis when I was five, was playing tournaments by the time I was nine, and running competitively at fifteen. Training camps always emphasized the importance of good nutrition and good workouts, and of course I wanted to win, so I was captivated by health and fitness principles.
When I graduated McNeese, I interned at the American Press, a local newspaper in Lake Charles, writing different articles, and then stayed on for another six months to write health stories. I loved it, and so knew I wanted a career in health writing.
Here at UF, I'm continuing this career goal by taking classes like Health and Fitness writing- (the class for which this blog is for), so when I graduate next May I'll hopefully get an amazing job straight off the bat! Here's hoping...
Other stuff about me- I've been married for a year so I'm now a permanent resident of the U.S., I still run in the mornings, I'm a triplet, and I just got a cute little puppy- half corgi, half Aussie Shephard.
That's all for now.
This blog will have a variety of info about Fitness and Nutrition, as well as some of my own experiences, so keep reading!
See you later!
Welcome to my Health and Fitness blog! It's always nice to know the person behind the writing (and the picture) so I'll start by giving you a little intro to myself.
Just briefly, I'm 23, halfway through a master's degree in journalism here at the University of Florida- my undergraduate degree is also in journalism, and I'm from New Zealand.
I get asked all the time why I would ever leave New Zealand because it's so beautiful- Lord of the Rings, in particular, upped the frequency of these kinds of questions- but I was offered a full track scholarship to run for McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, so off I went. Who would turn down the chance to study and run and experience a new country for free?!
I've always been involved in sport and I think that is why health and fitness interests me so much. I started playing tennis when I was five, was playing tournaments by the time I was nine, and running competitively at fifteen. Training camps always emphasized the importance of good nutrition and good workouts, and of course I wanted to win, so I was captivated by health and fitness principles.
When I graduated McNeese, I interned at the American Press, a local newspaper in Lake Charles, writing different articles, and then stayed on for another six months to write health stories. I loved it, and so knew I wanted a career in health writing.
Here at UF, I'm continuing this career goal by taking classes like Health and Fitness writing- (the class for which this blog is for), so when I graduate next May I'll hopefully get an amazing job straight off the bat! Here's hoping...
Other stuff about me- I've been married for a year so I'm now a permanent resident of the U.S., I still run in the mornings, I'm a triplet, and I just got a cute little puppy- half corgi, half Aussie Shephard.
That's all for now.
This blog will have a variety of info about Fitness and Nutrition, as well as some of my own experiences, so keep reading!
See you later!
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