Intermittent fasting dominated 2019 ranking number one in Google's most-searched diets of the year. But 2020 might be the year of the HMR Program, according to U.S. News & World Report, which ranked the diet first for fast weight loss. We're just not so sure this is a good thing.

The HMR Program features pre-packaged meals and weight-loss shakes that are delivered to your door.

Credit: 5PH/iStock/GettyImages

The Health Management Resources Program, better known as the HMR Program, is a pre-packaged food plan created about 30 years ago by Dr. Lawrence Stifler. It's been tested and continues to be used as a weight-loss approach in clinical settings. Many hospitals like NYU Langone Health, UC San Diego Health and Henry Ford Health System in Detroit use HMR as a weight-loss program at their facilities.

The program touts "easy and convenient meal delivery" while providing you "a break from making any food decisions." There are three plans to choose from; the most basic includes digital support and a starter kit of meals and shakes, and the program claims that it can help you lose 12 pounds in just three weeks. On the higher end, there's a plan with digital support plus in-person support plus all of the HMR weight-loss foods, and that one claims to help you lose between 28 to 38 pounds in just 12 weeks.

The HMR at Home Program plan provides 1,200 to 1,500 calories each day and is broken into two phases.

During the first phase, you're allowed to eat three HMR shakes, two HMR entrees and five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. You stay in phase one until you reach your goal weight or until you're ready to have less structure in your diet. A sample day on phase one might look like:

If you're still hungry at the end of the day, the program recommends having an HMR pudding or bar to satisfy your snack craving.

Phase two, which is supposed to last four to eight weeks, is a transition phase where you begin to eat less HMR-specific foods and begin to incorporate healthy "non-HMR low-calorie foods."

On the HMR program, especially during the first phase, you are encouraged to only eat HMR foods along with fruit and vegetables. The website has a database of recipes, but they all call for specific HMR foods that you then add to. One example is an Italian Tomato Bisque recipe which calls for combining the HMR Lasagna with the HMR 500 Chicken Soup along with canned stewed tomatoes, Molly McButter (yes, you read that right) and fat-free sour cream.

Did you know that keeping a food diary is one of the most effective ways to manage your weight? Download the MyPlate app to easily track calories, stay focused and achieve your goals!

As with anything, there are positives and negatives to this diet. In our opinion, though, the bad outweighs the good. Here's our breakdown.

The Pros:

Any diet that claims you'll "lose weight quickly" while making you 100 percent reliant on their foods to do so is one where you should proceed with caution. Especially when those foods are high in sodium and subpar ingredients and you're encouraged to limit any part of your social life that may center around food.

We understand the desire to lose weight quickly, but what is the point if it's not sustainable? Instead, a slower, more long-term approach that includes focusing on whole foods versus ultra-processed foods and shakes is the healthier route to go.

Indeed, researchers in a study published May 2019 in Cell Metabolism broke a group into two: An ultra-processed group and a less-processed, more whole foods group. Both groups were given the same amount of food to eat each day (matched for calories), but the processed group naturally ate about 500 more calories each day and ended up gaining a pound over the course of two weeks.

Shifting away from relying on ultra-processed foods and eating a healthier, whole foods-based diet may be better for our health and our waistlines in the long run.

See more here:
What to Know About the HMR Program for Weight Loss - LIVESTRONG.COM

Losing weight is a difficult feat. It takes dedication and hard work to commit to a new diet plan, let alone follow it perfectly amidst all the temptations. But what if we tell you that you dont have to beat yourself up for it?

Just some tiny changes in your morning routine will do. Of course, it's a given that you would have to maintain healthy habits throughout the day too and maintain a regular work out schedule.

Image source: Getty Images.

Exercise aside, here are some morning rituals you should include in your routine to be able to lose weight quickly:

Yes, you heard it right. Your beauty sleep is as important for your weight as it is for your mind. Experts say that if you dont get enough sleep, you tend to eat more during the day and as a result, put on more weight. This happens because sleep deprivation reduces the levels of leptin in your body. Leptin is a hormone that controls the energy balance in your body, the lack of this hormone disturbs this balance, making you eat more. So, squeeze in some time to catch up on your sleep and snooze those alarm clocks all you want. Alternatively, go to bed earlier so you can get a good nights sleep.

It has been scientifically proven that getting sunlight at the right time of the day can regulate circadian rhythms irrespective of how much sleep you get. As a result, your energy balance and hunger hormones get regulated and you dont feel hungry quite as often. It also helps burn fat and lose weight. So, open those curtains as soon as you wake up and get yourself some morning sun for a good 10-15 minutes.

There is a reason why health fanatics love protein - it is the ideal nutrient for weight loss. Proteins keep you feeling full for longer, so you dont have to fit in a snack between your breakfast and lunch. Scientists say that proteins reduce the amount of the hunger hormone ghrelin in your body. As a result, you tend to get fewer cravings and feel sated. Sprouts, lean meat, eggs and soy are some healthy options for a protein-rich breakfast.

Experts suggest drinking 2 glasses of water on an empty stomach as it can help lose weight. Proper hydration is really important to kickstart your day. A glass of water early in the morning does a lot of things for your body. First, it helps regulate your biological clock and reduces stress. Second, it curbs hunger pangs and aids in reducing your BMI (basal metabolic index) and finally, it is good for digestion. Good digestion makes sure that you get all the important nutrients from food and, as a result, stay fit.

Several studies have proven the positive effects of mindfulness on the human body, specifically through stress reduction and improved lifestyle. According to an article published on Harvard Health, an online resource by the Harvard Medical School, one of the biggest obstacles in any weight loss regime is finding the motivation to stick to it. You take a bite of a pie, feel guilty for cheating and then eat two more just because. With mindfulness, you can cultivate self-acceptance and hence be able to let go of guilt. This also helps prevent emotional eating, thus restricting your total calorie intake and ultimately promoting weight loss. Take a few minutes out from your morning schedule to just be present in the moment - you can do it while you are eating, getting ready or even on your way to work.

For more on this topic, please read our article on Foods That Aid Weight Loss.

Health articles in Firstpost are written by myUpchar.com, Indias first and biggest resource for verified medical information. At myUpchar, researchers and journalists work with doctors to bring you information on all things health.

Updated Date: Jan 07, 2020 14:02:22 IST

Tags :Healthy Morning Habits,Hydration,Mindfulness,NewsTracker,Tips For Weight Loss,Weight Loss

More here:
5 simple morning habits that can help you lose weight - Firstpost

I dont remember a time when I didnt feel fat. While I started piling on the pounds in my late teens, I was teased as young as eight for being chubby. The idea stuck. I remember overhearing my mum saying that she was worried I would get anorexia: I didnt even know what that was. Suffice to say, I never did. I felt fat long before I truly had a fat body, but eventually the latter caught up with the former. I tried to diet on and off from my late teens to my late 30s, but nothing stuck. I was deeply, painfully unhappy.

I didnt have a boyfriend throughout my 20s. Then, aged 30, I met my now ex-husband online, but that relationship was not without its complexities and I continued to gain weight. We got married in 2008. When we split up in 2013, I lost control and lived on junk food for a summer. I have always been an emotional eater and it was a vicious cycle. I was unhappy because I was fat, I ate because I was unhappy, then I gained weight because I ate.

Then I made a decision to save my own life. I went to my GP and, as always, they asked about my weight at 162kg (25 and a half stone), I was morbidly obese. This time, the doctor suggested weight-loss surgery.

At first, I balked. I had never been to hospital for anything more serious than a broken bone, never stayed overnight or had surgery. At my weight, there were serious risks of complications and a small but real possibility I could die on the table. I remember walking down the street to work and stopping in my tracks at the thought of that.

But as I walked down the street I was in agony a fact I never shared with anyone, although I suspect they knew. I couldnt walk for more than a minute without being in extreme pain. My back would seize up and my shins would burn from the strain I was putting them under. I knew I had to do something.

So, in December 2013, I went to hospital for gastric sleeve surgery. This is where a large part of your stomach is cut away so you can eat only small portions before you get full. The surgery took four hours. Afterwards, I had to be woken every few hours and made to walk up and down the corridor because of the risk of deep vein thrombosis. The discomfort was bad for a week and I had a month of recovery before I could return to work.

People can be really weird about weight-loss surgery. Some think it is a cheat. Others think that I have wasted NHS money, despite the fact that Ive probably saved them a fortune in treating the complications that might otherwise have arisen from my obesity. As a society, we make such moral judgments around weight gain and loss and the right and wrong ways of doing it. People treated me as a failure when I was fat despite my good job and life. People laud my weight loss when they see it, but there is sometimes a sense of disappointment in me when they realise it wasnt done through what they determine as willpower.

But it was. The surgery is only the start. I have met people for whom it didnt work; who cheated the surgery. Having the surgery doesnt guarantee success it gives you a head start. You still have to commit to your weight loss and work bloody hard at it.

That head start was what I needed. A chance to see a difference quickly and to turn my downward spiral into a positive feedback loop. One month after the surgery, I was walking for 30 minutes or more without pain. I now walk everywhere I can, trying to get at least 10,000 steps a day.

The stomach is a muscle, so after a while it stretches back to a normal size. I can now eat standard portions of food (although nothing like what I used to consume). I am not yet at my ideal weight and have joined Slimming World to get to my target, which is 16kg lighter than I am now.

I used to be a size 30; now I am a size 14. I used to loathe shopping; now I love it. The feeling of there being choices available to me that there never used to be is exhilarating. I used to avoid walking with others because the pain I was hiding made me quiet and unsocial; now I regularly tramp around the marshes near my home for miles with family and friends. Whereas I used to go home alone, now my life is, at times, full of dating and fun.

I have a confidence I never used to. I know things about me that were hidden under layers of fat and insecurity. I like my face now it has angles. I am even learning to like myself. It is hard and I dont know if I will feel completely at ease with myself, even when I do achieve that final loss. But I no longer hate myself and that is a powerful feeling.

More:
How weight loss surgery saved my life - The Guardian

Losing weight and keeping it off is a lot easier when you have expert guidance from the leader in weight loss and its supportive community. WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers) just rolled out its most customized program ever, and it's poised to continue to help millions of members around the world accomplish their weight-loss and wellness goals in 2020. With myWW, each new member takes a personal assessment which matches them with a customized program that can make losing weight easier.

While many members follow and succeed on the WW program using the WW app, those who would like a little extra expert guidance and consistent support swear by the weekly WW Workshops to keep them accountable and help them stay on track. WW Coaches host weekly 30-minute Workshops at over 800 studios nationwide.

Tricia Sherman is a WW Coach at the Newton WW Studio, the Framingham WW Studio and the Boston WW Studio. (WW Coaches are all previous members who have lost weight with WW and now share their knowledge and support with WW members at weekly Workshops.) Learn more about her weight-loss journey and get inspired!

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

Tricia: My journey began 10 years ago. My daughter was beginning to crawl, and I found myself stuck on the floor and not able to get up to go after her. I was horrified. It was at that moment that I knew something had to be done I did not want to live my life like that. The next day I joined WW, and it changed my life forever. I lost 175 pounds with the program, and four years ago, I became a ww Coach.

Tricia: The WW community is simply amazing. You will never find a room of people who are more supportive and creative. WW is the place where a room of strangers instantly becomes a room of friends. Sitting in the chairs and now standing in front of the chairs I have witnessed the relationships that are built. WW-er's are just the best they inspire folks for the better.

Anyone who sits in a WW Workshop understands where you are and understands the pressure and the emotions that are associated with weight loss. And it doesn't matter if you are here because of health concerns or because you want to look better in your clothes each member is a person and an individual to me.

Tricia: It's simple. I love that we can meet members where they are right now. WW's smart science matches members with a proven weight-loss plan, tailored to their eating habits and behaviors. The new myWW program allows for both structure and freedom in a controlled setting. WW did a great job on this one.

Tricia: Our topics are great! They range from exercise to stress management. Most recently, we have talked about holiday entertaining (my WW Workshops went to a party together), recipes, emotional eating, and ZeroPoint food tips and more. (WW's proprietary SmartPoints system simplifies complex nutritional information into a simple number to easily guide your eating decisions to support weight loss. ZeroPoint foods form the foundation of a healthy eating pattern, and are foods you don't have to track! Depending on your customized plan, they can include foods like chicken breast, fat-free Greek yogurt, all vegetables and more.)

Tricia: I think planning is key. I recently gave everyone a blank December calendar and told them to put in their parties/events. Then I shared how this simple piece of paper is a tool they can use it to plan and see how to make the most of things. I do this as well. Whether it is earning rollover points, using ZeroPoint foods or going over my points for the day, awareness helps me to make sure I know what is going on. Also track what you eat. I track the good, the bad and the ugly honesty is the best policy!

Tricia: Don't set time limits! Do this for you, and know that the weight didn't come on overnight, and it isn't going away overnight. Come in with a healthy mindset, let go of what you may have tried in the past and start fresh. This is a NO-JUDGMENT ZONE!

Tricia: It is so important because we live year-around! You can't just be healthy just during certain months of the year you must maintain a lifestyle. Also, by being healthy, you are setting an example for others and serving as a role model.

Tricia: Start small choose one small change you can make that is realistic and livable. If the whole thing is overwhelming, just start small. Slow and steady wins the race, and if you can achieve one change, that will give you the strength to move forward and change something else!

Tricia: My members! And my members' SUCCESSES! I love seeing people reach their goals. There is nothing that makes me happier than when they show me their before-and-after pictures, and I see that twinkle in their eye the glimmer of happiness! Those are some of the moments that keep me going. I also truly believe that I couldn't stand there and talk if I didn't practice what I say. I believe in the program, and I know that sometimes it's easier than others. But listening to the members, offering support and guidance or, more importantly, asking the right questions to help them figure it out makes me so happy!

Tricia: I want people to realize that WW is ever-changing, and we are not the same program your mother did. Folks should know that we are constantly trying new things and striving to meet the needs of busy and healthy lifestyles combined. I also think people should know about our incredible digital tools. They are simply amazing. I love that you can find support in the digital community even if you are not at the WW Workshops!

I truly feel like WW has so much to offer. People need to not worry about being seen walking into a WW Studio or sitting in a chair. Oftentimes, you meet old friends and build new relationships. People should also know that we live in the communities we work in so don't be shy!

WW is a weight-loss program that takes a people-focused, science-backed approach to promoting weight loss and healthy living. Its new program, myWW, is fully customized to make losing weight easier for you.

When you join myWW, you'll start with a personal assessment that asks a range of questions about your unique food preferences, activity level, lifestyle and approach to weight loss. Based on your responses, WW will scientifically match you with a customized, proven weight-loss plan that can make losing weight easier.

Every person in the WW Studio is on your side! The friendly guides and expert Coaches will quickly become your greatest motivators and sources of support to make 2020 the year you reach your weight loss goals!

Workshops held at WW Studio locations cover topics that are relevant to weight loss, health and wellness. You can participate as much or as little as you want. There are WW Workshops during the morning, afternoon and evening, seven days a week. This gives you flexibility to attend the Workshop time/day/location that works for during any particular week and ensure your accountability network is always accessible.

Based on years of research, the WW Workshop curriculum is always evolving to bring the best science-backed techniques to help you lose weight and build healthy habits for life.

People following the WW plan can expect to lose 1-2 lbs/wk.

Originally posted here:
How This WW (Formerly Weight Watchers) Coach Lost 175 Pounds - Patch.com

I can never remember a time in my life where my weight wasnt an issue, says Dalton Blanchard, a 29-year-old IT manager from Houma, Louisiana. As a sedentary kid, he didnt try out for sports he feared he was too out of shape to play; growing up, diets made his weight yo-yo, but he never kept it off. Things got worse in college, as the stress of school led him to binge eat, sometimes hitting 6,000 calories a day. I didnt have exercise or other healthy outlets to relieve stress, so stress eating was a big part of my life and I oftentimes would eat just to feel okay, he says.

By his second year of grad school, he was 330 pounds. I felt like absolute garbage, he says. He dressed in baggy clothes to hide his body. I didnt look at mirrors, I didnt worry about clothes, and there was absolutely no respect for myself.

Online dating turned him aroundspecifically, his now-wife, Francesca. She brought out a lot of things inside of me that I didnt know were parts of my personality, he says, and I found out that I did like being social and that I did like meeting new people. Blanchard admits feeling ashamed as she introduced him to new people. I felt like she deserved more than who I was, he says, and thats really what sparked my change.

He started small. One day after a stressful day at work, he went to the gym and tried jogging. Hed tried for years to get into a workout routine, but it always felt like a chore. This time, though, he loved it. He soon developed a cardio routine, 45 minutes of jogging every weekday. I remember one gym session where I jogged three miles without stopping and I felt like I was on the top of the world, he says.

Cardio quickly helped him slim down, but he also worked to get his diet under control. He used the MyFitnessPal app to count his calories, eating no more than 1500 a day. Lean Cuisine prepackaged meals and salads helped him establish a routine. He aimed to burn 1000 active calories a day, while allowing himself the flexibility of weekend cheat meals to keep from going crazy.

With two years of primarily cardio work, Blanchard went from 330 pounds down to 168, hitting that mark on his wedding day. Since then hes worked to build muscle, and hes now at 180 pounds. Physically, I feel incredible, he says. I dont have as many back pains, leg pains, and moving around is just so much easier. Hes more confident and likes buying clothes again. Hes able to look in the mirror with pride.

Consistency, he says, was the key. He established his weekday routine and stuck to it, using weekends to blow off any stress he felt about it. MyFitnessPal and Apple Watch let him quantify his progress and focus on simply running a calorie deficitburning more than he took in. And he found he really loved running. Find an activity that drives you, he says, and then the rest will become easy.

Read the rest here:
A Simple Cardio Routine Helped This Guy Drop 150 Pounds in 2 Years - menshealth.com

Weight loss: Here is how one minute of plank can be all you need for a toned body   |  Photo Credit: Getty Images

New Delhi: The New Year 2020 has begun, and many people might have made a New Year's Resolution to get fit and healthy, this year. If you are one of those people and are looking to lose weight quickly this month, you must ensure that you include an exercise routine in your lifestyle. For people who are the right weight, but want a more toned, proportionate body, including certain exercises in your routine can help.

One such exercise is the planks. Though every one who knows about the exercise dreads it, you will always find fitness enthusiasts vouching for the benefits of the exercise. If you are looking forward to getting a toned body, you must include a minute of the plank exercise in your exercise routine.

Getting in the plank exercise is pretty basic and simple. Lie down on your stomach, and face up. Place the part of your arms from the elbows to the palm on the floor, making support. Move the weight of the body on your arms, and your toes, and extend your body upwards from the belly. Imagine a straight plank, and try to imitate the posture with your body. Your body should not be swinging from the belly. Make sure you use your core muscles to hold the pose. While holding the pose, look straight, and breathe normally. Hold the position for one minute.

Initially, holding for one minute will be difficult. So aim for 45 seconds, and hold for as long as you can, and not less than 30 seconds. With time and practice, you will be able to hold the plank for a minute.

The plank exercise is a full-body exercise, even when it engages the core muscles as primary. It tones all parts of your body, from your shoulders, arms, and core, to your glutes and hamstrings. Since all the muscles are put into action when doing the plank exercise, it can help make them stronger and more toned, giving your body a really nice, chiselled, and fit look. The plank exercise can also help you get abs if you are aiming for them.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.

The rest is here:
Weight loss: Here is how one minute of plank can be all you need for a toned body - Times Now

Rebel Wilson has been flaunting her incredible weight loss as she vowed to have a healthy 2020.

The actress, 39, took to Instagram to post a picture of herself on the beach as she showed off her slimmed down figure.

In the snap she looked visibly slimmer as she posed in a sports jacket, gym leggings and a pair of sunglasses.

In the caption she declared that this year would be her "year of health" as she swore to cut down on junk food and sugar in favour of a healthy lifestyle.

Rebel wrote: "Okay so for me 2020 is going to be called 'The Year of Health' so I put on the athleisure and went out for a walk.

"Deliberately hydrating on the couch right now and trying to avoid the sugar and junk food which is going to be hard after the holidays I've just had but I'm going to do it!

"Who's with me in making some positive changes this year?"

Her fans quickly flooded the snap with compliments.

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One commented: "I'm so proud of you!! You look fantastic already with your weight loss."

"You look amazing!! 2020 bring on health, I'm with you!!" another posted.

A third wrote: "You look great, you looked absolutely beautiful beforehand and still now."

"You look great Rebel!" another agreed.

Rebel went on a health kick last year when she enlisted the help of celebrity personal trainer Gunnar Peterson.

She now works out four times a week.

Gunnar told US Weekly : "When she's in town, shes a solid four days a week . She is such a cool person to work with."

See more here:
Rebel Wilson shows off incredible weight loss as she vows to make 2020 her 'year of health' - Irish Mirror

The average British adult will try 126 fad diets over the course of their lifetime - and typically abandon them after just six days.

A study of 2,000 adults found each person will embark on at least two trendy diets a year in a bid to quickly shed weight.

The most common 'quick fix' methods are the Atkins Diet, the 5:2 and the Cabbage Soup Diet, while the Keto, South Beach and Juice diets are also popular.

Unsurprisingly, the typical fad diet is abandoned after an average of just six days.

But, when wanting to lose weight, 52 per cent of those polled admitted they were really confused about which diets were sustainable and which were not.

One fifth don't know where to go to get reliable and truthful information, and more than half are baffled about which foods can and can't be cut out.

Almost one third of adults even believe consumption of fruits such as berries, apples and bananas should be limited.

Nick Marston, chairman of Love Fresh Berries, which commissioned the study, said: "January tends to be the month when people embark on fad diets as a quick fix.

"However, we know that it isn't a sustainable or even healthy approach.

"Instead, nutritionists advise that we follow evidence-based nutritional advice and look for a well-balanced diet that does not cut out any food groups.

"Incorporating lots of fruit and vegetables is important, including berries as they have many important nutritional benefits."

The study also revealed that when deciding to 'emergency diet', almost half of those polled would turn to Google as their first port of call for information, while 10 per cent would find out what their favourite celebrity does to look good.

Social media and self-help books are referred to by 15 per cent of people, but only 27 per cent say they'd consider consulting a GP.

Key motivations for Brits to take up a crash diet include having a big event on the horizon (18 per cent), preparing for a holiday (21 per cent) and wanting to feel happier with appearance (24 per cent).

But some of the methods of dieting proved even more extreme than others, with 16 admitting they would consider drinking up to 12 glasses of lemon juice a day to lose weight quickly.

And one in twenty would even be happy to intentionally ingest a tapeworm to burn 'extra' calories.

Other drastic - and unhealthy - methods respondents would consider trying include eating ice every day, drinking olive oil between meals and tucking into jars of baby food.

The apparent confusion about what works and what doesn't means many Brits are opting to cut out essential food groups, believing this will encourage faster weight loss.

And with the majority of adults admitting they experience more than five food cravings a day when trying to crash diet, the research indicates the elimination of certain foods is not sustainable for any period of time.

Loving food topped the poll of reasons why dieters found these plans impossible to stick to while a quarter said food and drink were integral to their social life.

Among the chief diet breakers are chocolate, bread and pasta, but for one in 10 fruit juice and bananas prove hard to resist.

Some Brits have even had to abandon a diet after it clearly affected their health, with fatigue (21 per cent), weakness (29 per cent) and headaches (26 per cent) putting an end to quick weight loss plans.

The study, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed just under half are confused about whether fruit should be limited when dieting, due to fears the food is too high in sugar (45 per cent) and carbohydrates (13 per cent).

More than one in 10 are convinced fruits are too calorific, while another tenth believe they contain worrying levels of fat.

Dr Emma Derbyshire, a nutritionist speaking on behalf of Love Fresh Berries said: "It seems there are still ongoing confusions about how much and what form fruits should be eaten.

"Concerns about sugars and carbohydrates are largely unfounded.

"The benefits that fruits bring in terms of micro and phytonutrients far outweigh any potential sugar concerns.

"Sugars naturally occurring in fruits are intrinsic and not 'added' sugars, also known as free sugars.

"Fruits such as berries are naturally sweet so there is no need to add extra refined sugar to these.

"In terms of calories and fats in fruit, this is rather concerning.

"When put into a larger context fruits contain far fewer calories, sugars and fat than refined snacks such as crisps, biscuits and cakes.

"Such confusions are worrying and clearly further myth busting is needed to help correct these misconceptions."

1. Atkins diet 2. The 5:2 3. Cabbage soup diet 4. Keto diet 5. Juice cleanse 6. Salad diet 7. Juice diet 8. Grapefruit juice diet 9. Paleo diet 10. 3-Day diet 11. Raw food diet 12. Alkaline diet 13. South Beach diet 14. Negative calorie diet 15. 3 hour diet 16. Macrobiotic diet 17. Zone diet 18. Brazilian diet 19. Tapeworm diet 20. Pioppi diet

More here:
Brits will try 126 fad diets in their lives in a bid to quickly shed weight - Daily Star

It's the same every year - Christmas comes and delicious food is everywhere.

If you've had enough of Fat Santa's, Christmas cake and Quality Street and are thinking about starting a healthy eating regime, or you just want to shed a few of the festive-pounds you put on, then look no further.

This list is filled with 28 individuals that are sure to give you some inspiration.

From wanting to lose weight for a sky-dive, to just wanting to be able to walk without getting out of breath, these fabulous slimmers have made weight loss look easy.

Scroll through the list of amazing transformations below.

If you have a weight loss story to share, get in touch via email at katie.timms@reachplc.com.

Tamsin Cole joined slimming world with her family in March 2018.

Tamsin has autism and when she first joined Slimming World she would sit on the floor in the back of the room with her family and wouldnt speak to anyone.

Her consultant, Mandy Cole, said: "Tamsin had such low self esteem that she wouldnt make eye contact and this went on for several months. As the months passed and Tamsin began losing weight it was a joy to watch her slowly, week-on-week raising her head and eventually finding the confidence to speak in group.

"Tamsin was nominated for Miss Slinky and I can remember worrying about her feeling worried about taking part but I neednt have been worried.

"Tamsin was happy to participate and proudly marched to the front of the room to accept her award."

She then went on to be nominated for Woman Of The Year 2019 and was successful in becoming a regional finalist.

Mandy added: "The transformation in Tamsins both physically and mentally is unrecognisable. Tamsin now sits proud in group every week and she has so much to say and share.

"Tamsin has lost a sensational 5st 7lbs and she truly is a different person. She is now passionate about sending the message to anyone suffering with learning difficulties or any form of autism that the Slimming World plan can help them to lose weight with plenty of support and resources to support additional needs."

A Plymouth woman says that Slimming World has changed her life and helped her deal with the death of her young child.

In 2013, Rebecca Hele had lost her confidence, was unhappy with her weight and was trying for a baby without success.

But 11 months after that, things couldnt have been any more different for the then 30-year-old.

Bex joined Slimming World to support her mother, but soon found that weight was dropping off her. She was still eating plenty of her favourite foods but a more balanced diet and some understanding about food saw a body transformation she wasnt expecting.

In just 11 months Bex lost three-and-a-half stone and in the same week that she discovered that she had reached her target weight, Bex found out that she was pregnant with her first child.

Sadly her second child, Jack, was born with a rare heart condition and passed away at just nine days old.

Bex continued to attend meetings where she found great comfort and support and is now helping and supporting others as she has trained as a consultant.

Read her full story here.

A young woman from Plymouth looks almost unrecognisable after losing a whopping SEVEN stone.

Lauren Fidler joined Slimming World in April 2017 after joining Peverell group and has now been nominated for the Young Slimmer of the year 2019 award.

The 21-year-old has revealed that the reason she thinks she has dropped from 17st 11.5lbs to 11st 1lbs is due to 'free food' allowing her to feel full.

Lauren joined the weight-loss group as she hated how she looked and felt "isolated" because of her weight, which also meant that she suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome [CFS].

Her CFS "is currently in remission" thanks to her new healthy weight and life-style.

Lauren joined Slimming World and lost almost a stone in her first month and she was still able to eat some of her favourite foods and never felt hungry.

She thanks the staff and members at her group for changing her life and earlier this year she was able to graduate feeling confident and content.

Lauren went from a size 20 to a size eight and has since been horse riding and ran the Plymouth 10k, something she could only have dreamt of beforehand.

Lauren is now hoping to help others in the same way she was helped and opened her own Slimming World group in Mount Gould on November 11.

The group is held at Mount Gould Methodist Church every Monday at 5.30pm.

Read the full story here.

A Plymouth woman has defied the odds and gone from being bed-bound and unable to speak to losing three dress sizes and running her own weightloss class.

Sophie Rice has overcome incredible obstacles to transform her body and mind with the help of Slimming World and has shared the secrets to her success with Plymouth Live.

But it certainly wasn't easy as after having suffered a massive seizure on September 9, 2017, Sophie was left unable to move or to speak.

She was taken to Derriford hospital, where the seizures continued, but no cause could be found. Sophie could no longer speak normally and needed 24-hour care.

Fortunately Sophies mother and brother stepped in to care for Sophie and her daughter, so she was allowed home from hospital.

The future seemed bleak with Sophie having seizures every day, housebound and confined to a wheelchair, not knowing whether she would ever recover.

Things took a turn for the better however, when in February 2018, an operation to relieve pressure in Sophies spine was a success. Sophie was delighted that her rehabilitation could start and she would be able to walk again.

Sophies happiness was marred however because during the time that Sophie had been housebound, she had gained weight and now hated the way she looked and had lost all of her confidence.

Over the next few months, with the help of the neuro-rehabilitation team, Sophie introduced body magic through walking as a way to build strength but also to have an overall healthier way of life.

With the help of speech therapy, Sophies speech improved, so she became able to join in conversations in the group.

After only 22 weeks of joining Slimming World, Sophie had reached her weight loss target of three stone and to top it off, was crowned the groups Woman of the Year 2018.

She said: "I went from a size 18 to a size 12 and felt amazing in a bikini again. Slimming World has changed my life - I'm now able to cook again, family meals such as chicken and leek risotto and pitta pizza are still on the menu.

For Sophie's full story, click here.

As she stepped on the scales for the first-time in a long-time, 24-stone and four pounds flashed up at her.

Seeing the number on the scales was an "awful feeling" for Louise Ings, but she was determined to shed the weight for her health and a better family life.

The 48-year-old credits her weight loss to WW (formally known as Weight Watchers), which has helped her lose a whopping 12 stone in just 18-months.

Louise has gone from a size 30 to a slinky size 14 and has never felt better.

A mum who hated having her photograph taken is now feeling more confident than ever after losing an incredible four stone.

Pareasa Kingwell started her weight loss journey just under a year ago and has already seen a drastic improvement.

The mother-of-three first walked into Lorraine Wotton's WW [formerly Weight Watchers] class at the Unitarian Church in Notte Street, weighing 17 stone 12 pounds, after disliking how she looked in her holiday snaps.

Now, just 11 months later, Pareasa weighs 13 stone 11 pounds, and is more determined than ever to hit her targets.

The 38-year-old said: "I still have a long way to go, but doing WW has been the best thing, not just for me but my family too.

"It's so easy to follow and my children eat all the same food, so no need to cook separate meals for everyone."

Pareasa said that at the time of starting her weight loss journey, she was having health difficulties and wanted to improve her fitness so we would be able to look after her children better.

Read her full story here.

A grandmother has wowed Slimming World consultants with her amazing willpower and determination.

Jeanette Murphy originally joined the weight loss group in 2017 to support her daughter, Caroline, who has been through a traumatic time, losing her partner when she was pregnant.

Unfortunately Caroline could not continue with the group due to illness and Jeanette became her carer and was forced with the decision to leave or continue with the group.

But despite caring for her 16-year-old granddaughter, Charlotte and her daughter Caroline, as well as coping with her own health issues, including epilepsy and osteo arthritis, she was determined to carry on achieving her weight loss goals.

Jeanette realised she was quite unfit and to keep up with Charlotte she needed to continue on her weight loss journey.

The 68-year-old has now been named Ernesettle Slimming World's diamond member of the year 2019 for losing 4st 7lbs in just over a year.

Jeanette has managed to maintain her weight and has become an inspiration to other members in the group.

Read Jeanette's full story here.

Ten years ago Charlotte Kelly met the love of her life and jetted off on the trip of a lifetime travelling the world.

After spending a year together, experiencing new things and ticking off places from their bucket list, they decided they wanted to start a family.

The then 33-year-old suffered with polycystic ovarian syndrome, which "proved challenging" for the couple.

Throughout Charlotte's travels, she gained more weight and at her heaviest, weighed 17st 3lb.

Charlotte decided to sign up to a WW [Weight Watchers] group, in an attempt to lose weight to improve her fertility and lost just under three stone.

She gave birth to a beautiful baby girl and hoped that the next time they tried to conceive, it would be the same, but instead Charlotte found herself "in an ever deepening black hole".

The pair "scrimped and saved, begged and borrowed" to self-fund three rounds of IVF.

She said: "It was nothing to do with the weight. It was my age. Unfortunately we were getting to the bottom of the barrel in eggs. The doctor told me I was too old and am running out of eggs."

Charlotte made a promise to herself before the last round of IVF started, "in case of disappointment" - which prompted her to take on a new venture to keep herself busy.

She said: "I wanted to do something that I loved and was passionate about.

Charlotte was worried she would fail, but with some gentle reassurance from her sister and her coach, she filled in the form to become a consultant and has never looked back.

Charlotte's WW groups run at Redeemer Church on Monday evening's at 5.30pm, St Edward's Church Hall in Peverell on Tuesday evenings at 6.30pm.

She also runs workshops in Liskeard at the Liskerrett Centre every Monday at 11am and 12.30pm and Polperro on Tuesday's at 11am.

Linda Kittle decided she needed to overhaul her diet for her health as when she ballooned to a size 24 she suffered from type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

But after dropping NINE dress sizes, Linda says she doesn't suffer from the conditions and she has never felt better.

Weighing 21st 10lbs nine years ago, Linda started first started losing weight on her own by dieting and she managed to keep it off for around nine years, but she said she "got comfortable" and the weight slowly started to pile back on.

The 60-year-old was back at 15st 5lbs in January of 2018 and she was determined to improve her health and Linda joined the HonicknowleSlimming World group.

The slimming superstar was even awarded the "greatest loser" title and in just over a year and eight months, Linda has lost a whopping 7st 10lbs.

The mother of four said: "First I lost the weight on my own by just dieting and kept it off for nine years, but then I got comfortable and started slipping and went back to being big then I joined Slimming World and lost it again.

"I started at a size 24 and now I am a size four to six.

"When I was big I was a type 2 diabetic and had high blood pressure and now I have nothing I feel amazing."

Read Linda's full story here.

Two years ago, Tanya Rawlings found herself struggling to walk and despising how she looked.

She gorged on crisps, sandwiches and would finish her children's leftovers - but would never eat a proper meal.

The 41-year-old became addicted to fizzy drinks and would drink a large amount of calories in a few minutes.

"I felt like a big, fat, gross person" the mother-of-five said.

She suffers from COPD and the extra weight was hindering her condition.

The tipping point came when she was unable to walk her youngest son to school as she struggled to breathe if she walked too far, which sometimes resulted in her having to be treated in hospital.

But in June 2018, Tanya said enough was enough and was determined to shift the weight and joined the Honicknowle Slimming World group.

She has now gone from 17st to a slinky 11st 7lbs and said her whole life has improved.

But she doesn't just credit the weight loss group for improving her life, she believes she would not be here if she did not join the group.

Tanya said: "Six weeks ago I had an operation but it went wrong and I ended up with sepsis.

"If I didnt go to Slimming World I dont think Id be here.

"I think if I was a lot more heavier like I used to be and I wasnt as fit as I am now, I really dont think I would be here now.

Originally posted here:
The biggest Slimming World and Weight Watchers weight loss transformations of 2019 - Plymouth Live

It doesnt matter how much or how little knowledge you have of the medical field. Everyone knows what cancer is, and its something we all fear to some degree. Thats why it can be comforting to know the symptoms: it gives you more of a feeling of control.

Of course, there are many different forms of cancer and they all come with their own symptoms. Still, there are certain symptoms that appear more often than others.

What are the warning signs of cancer? Start with this list.

If you are like the many Americans who are overweight and would prefer not to be, this may not seem like a bad symptom at first. It isnt unusual to drop small amounts of weight quickly, for example as the result of releasing water you had been retaining.

The time to be concerned is if your weight loss continues for several weeks and you havent changed your lifestyle habits. This can be a sign of cancer or of a wide range of other conditions and changes.

One of the most well-known warning signs for breast cancer is a lump in the breast. However, this is not the only lump to watch for.

You have lymph nodes in areas like your armpits, your groin, and your jaw. When you have an illness or infection, those lymph nodes help your body get rid of the waste from fighting the infection. They become swollen because they gather bacteria and other materials.

It is normal for your lymph nodes to be swollen and tender on occasion. If this lasts for more than three weeks, though, it could be a sign of cancer.

The same goes for any other lump throughout your body. If a lump develops and you dont know what it is, regardless of whether it is tender, its best to have a doctor examine it.

Many people think lung cancer only occurs in people who smoke. If they arent a smoker, then, they dont pay attention to an ongoing cough because they dont believe it could be cancer.

In reality, anyone can get lung cancer. If you have a cough that lasts for more than a few weeks, you should see a doctor no matter what your health habits are. That cough could signal cancer in your lungs or anywhere along your respiratory tract.

While this is true for any persistent cough, its especially important to see a doctor if you also have blood in your saliva or phlegm.

While most people think of a breast lump as the tell-tale sign of breast cancer, that isnt the full picture. Not only are most breast lumps benign, but there are other potential warning signs you dont want to ignore.

One symptom to watch for is unexpected breast discharge. For example, if you have discharge and you are not pregnant or breastfeeding, it may be a cause for concerned.

Pay special attention to whether the discharge comes from one breast or both breasts. If both breasts have discharge, it may be more likely to be a hormonal issue or another condition. It is still better to be on the safe side and see a doctor, though.

You should also make note of the discharge itself. If there appears to be blood in it, make it a priority to visit a doctor.

While many of us pay little attention to the details of our habits going to the bathroom, its important to notice if there are sudden changes.

For example, blood in your urine or your stool is always something you should have a doctor examine. While most cases of this are caused by a simple infection, hemorrhoids, or other minor issues, they may also signal cancer.

You should also note whether your stool has changed its shape. If you repeatedly have extremelynarrow stool, for example, or if you have persistent diarrhea, it can be a warning sign.

Changes in your urination could give you clues as well. Pay attention to any changes in your urines flow and the amount of urine, as well as the urines flow.

Any of these changes could signal one of many potential cancers in the urinary or digestive systems, as well as prostate cancer in men.

One of the tricky aspects of cancer is that it is so varied and can look so different in different people. However, the signs and symptoms above can give you your first clues.

If you spot any of these warning signs, what do you do?

If you have any signs of cancer or other illnesses for that matter, your first step is to see a doctor. The only way to truly know about your health is to complete medical testing.

Your general practitioner is a good place to start. They may be able to rule out cancer on their own, putting your mind at ease. Otherwise, theyll be able to refer you to the right specialist to do more detailed testing.

As important as it is to get your symptoms examined, there is no need to panic. All the symptoms above are more likely to be caused by other conditions than by cancer. Chances are that any illness you have is minor, but if cancer does appear, early detection is your best action.

When you visit your doctor for an exam, you can also discuss ways to ease your symptoms if they are uncomfortable. Make sure you ask your doctor before trying any remedies or medications to ensure they wont interfere with your testing.

Your doctor can guide you through your options, regardless of your health. On option that is becoming popular is CBD for cancer symptoms, as this article explores.

When it comes to your health, knowledge is both a gift and a curse.

On the one hand, knowing the answers to questions like what are the warning signs of cancer lets you know what to look for. At the same time, dont always convince yourself of the worst-case scenario. Just think positive and go to your doctor to find out the facts.

If you want to learn more about how to protect your health, check out more health articles right here on our blog.

Continued here:
Cancer 101: What Are the Warning Signs of Cancer? - - RushPRnews.com