Q Dear Doc, I would like to know what exactly is alternative medicine?

My friend told me I must try that to treat my heavy period, but I dont trust all them bush things that can give me cancer. Do you think it is safe?

A Very interesting question. Alternative medicine is any treatment that is supposed to help with health but is not part of mainstream medicine, which typically involves doctors and prescription medication.

Examples of alternative medicine include:

- Acupuncture People having acupuncture have thin needles inserted into their skin in different places. The needles do not hurt, or they hurt very little. This might not help your heavy periods but has shown to help with painful periods.

- Herbal remedies Herbal remedies are usually pills or liquids that contain substances found in plants, or the actual plant itself, what he typically call bush medicine. Even though herbal remedies are natural, they may not always be safe, because plants sometimes have chemicals that can hurt the body. However, there are some plants that have been widely studied to provide benefit to various conditions and those would be safe to take.

- Mind-body techniques Examples of mind-body techniques include hypnosis and guided imagery. These techniques are supposed to calm you and help you change the way you think about your symptoms.

- Massage therapy This is often used to help with pain symptoms and provide relaxation.

- Special diets People with cancer and other health problems sometimes hear that their condition could improve if they ate a special diet. These diets might contain no meat, or require people to take special supplements.

Many forms of alternative medicine are safe, and can be helpful when used along with traditional medicine. If you use, or are thinking about using, alternative medicine, be sure to talk with your doctor so they can tell you if there are any risks involved with the alternative medicine you have in mind.

It is important to talk with your doctor, because some herbal medicines can interact with prescription medicines and cause you harm or keep them from working. Also, some herbal medicines are toxic and dangerous, and can damage the liver.

Special diets can cause persons to lose weight very quickly, and cause additional health problems.

Speak with your doctor about whatever alternative medicine your friend suggested to you before starting it.

Dear Doc, my child cut herself playing and I thought the cut looked rather serious. So I took her to the doctor, thinking she was going to need stitches, but the cut was instead glued together.

Is it safe to be using glue on cuts like that?

A Nothing to worry about. What was used is what we call a tissue adhesive.

Tissue adhesives are a type of glue that can be safely used on skin and other body tissues. Doctors will use tissue adhesives to close certain types of cuts and hold a wound closed until it has a chance to heal. In some cases, tissue adhesives are a good alternative to stitches as they are less painful, and quicker and easier to apply than stitches. Cuts closed with adhesives heal just about as well as cuts closed with stitches.

Be careful, however. Many persons buy some of these products without a prescription to use them on their own, without any input from a doctor; this is strongly ill-advised. If used incorrectly, tissue adhesives can cause problems.

Tissue adhesives are used for cuts that are clean, straight and short (less than two inches, or five centimetres, long) and that close up neatly without causing the skin to be tight.

Here is some other benefits of tissue adhesives:

- There is no bandage with a wound treated with an adhesive. The adhesive works like a bandage.

- No need to use antibiotic ointment, as it can break down the adhesive.

- You can shower while the adhesive is on your skin. You still cannot take a bath, or soak or scrub the area for seven to 10 days, however.

- You will also not need to see the doctor again unless the wound doesnt heal well or you have signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.

The adhesive will peel off on its own, usually by five to 10 days. If after 10 days you still have adhesive on you, you can use antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to get it off.

deardoc@gleanerjm.com

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Dear Doc | Glue that can be safely used on skin - Jamaica Gleaner

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The gym floor is a safari and to an interloper, it feels duly perilous. Hulking Mr and Mrs Muscles pumping iron, their grunts reverberating around the chamber; lean runners going for a sub-two-hour marathon on a corner treadmill, their legs moving at cartoonish velocity. You start to sidle towards a kettlebell but it is plucked from the rack by a nimble athlete who heads for a floor mat, virtually swinging it around their little finger. Gymtimidated, you sit on a stationary bike and text for seven minutes, then leave, cancelling your membership on the way out.

Dont go: all you need is a guardian angel in other words, a personal trainer. Someone to help you seize kettlebells with assertion and drop into a squat like a pro. Moreover, this someone will ensure your reps really count: that you neither do too few, nor too many, and that each one is safely executed (ie no risk to the knees, spine or dignity).

All well and good, but for those who dont mint their own money have you considered a faithful PT who will dispatch a crib sheet via WhatsApp? Thats the idea at 13, a new luxe pay-as-you-go Chelsea gym by the team behind boxing studio Kobox (its upstairs at Koboxs Sloane Street site). Not that you need to go there at all: the training programme is delivered via phone, including GIFs of your 13 trainers showing how to execute each move. We are trying to bridge the gap between having gym membership and not knowing what to do when you go, and having a PT which for many can be too expensive, says Kobox and 13 founder Shane Collins. Clients get 80 per cent of the benefit of a PT at 20 per cent of the price. Its 20 for a single e-PT session, 200 for a four-week programme, and 375 for eight weeks.

And its simple: all you need is a phone and WhatsApp. Your PT will send you a programme of moves, detailing the number of reps, then send GIFs demonstrating each one. This visual element is the flourish of the service. If people have a visual example they can usually follow it pretty well, Collins says. If the exercises are just written down, people often dont know exactly which exercise is which. The GIFs both improve form and limit the likelihood of injury.

The best running clubs in London

Plus, just like a real PT, you can ask them questions. It allows us to open up an instant chat situation. If you have queries or feedback we can deal with it in real time. Workouts are specifically for the individual. Maybe you want to lose weight, gain muscle, learn to run better, train for golf, tennis or skiing it doesnt matter, we can build you a plan.

In that way, the programme is tailored for both novices and those who want to maximise the efficiency of a workout. I am not a beginner but often feel a bit unfocused at the gym: after a 15-minute warm-up on the treadmill Ill slope over to mess on the machines and do squats or presses. But Im never sure if it amounts to a coherent workout. Road-testing a Strength programme was reassuring: in between dumbbell single-press lunges and plank step-ups (ouch), I was sure I was getting a proper workout. The main thing the programme has done is give confidence to the clients, says Collins. Instead of walking aimlessly around the gym, theyre coming with structure and purpose and being efficient with their time.

Plus, for commitment-allergic Londoners with unpredictable schedules, its flexible. You dont have to fit in with your PTs schedule, or anyone elses, you work through the programme when it suits you. Youre in charge and were just there to help you get the best workout you possibly can.

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Introducing the WhatsApp workout that delivers bespoke routines to your phone - Evening Standard

As a chill settles and autumn blows into winter, the tendency to burrow inside increases across Whidbey Island. Fortunately, plenty of activity aficionados have created ways to keep everyone inside while remaining active, engaged and fit-as-a-fiddle.

From kettlebells and clogging to Bollywood and belly dancing, theres no reason to be bored on the island this winter. All these activities are casual, drop-in friendly, and require little, if any, pre-registration.

Backyard Kettlebells

Those with children may already know about The Backyard play space in Langley but whats just dawning on grown-ups is that the play isnt all about the little ones. In fact, the Backyard kettlebell sessions are just for adults and take place five days a week.

The unique thing about joining the kettlebells group at The Backyard is that it takes place in its own dedicated space while still being open to kids on the other side of the huge open-format room. So everyone can see one another while still having their own age-appropriate activities. Its a family affair in the truest sense, and even those kettlebellers without kids enjoy the sense of community created in the design and layout.

The Backyard is a nonprofit organization started by Sarah and Zach Ruggenberg, who are trained and certified in the latest fitness trends for all ages. Sarah specializes in whats known as NatMove in which fitness is based on natural body movement, while Zach is a certified StrongFirst kettlebell instructor.

In the kettlebell sessions, participants work out with cast iron balls that have handles attached to the top. The classes include balance and movement exercises that incorporate the kettlebells in various ways, and a typical group includes males and females varying in age from 16 to 70 and of varying levels of fitness and experience.

Some aspire to become toned and build muscle mass, while others have a goal of improving back strength or better balance.

I teach people to move safely and effectively, Zach said. And people do get stronger, with more defined muscles, weight loss, better cardiovascular and respiratory systems as people slowly increase their skill levels, their body awareness increases too, along with flexibility, mobility and confidence.

But the most important thing is that its enjoyable, Zach explained. Case in point: In November, they have a community event call Friendsgiving at which everyone comes out, brings a potluck item, engages in a communal workout with kettlebells, and then its time to eat and hang out.

As a nonprofit, the mission is to make the alternative fitness playground available to all ages and fitness levels, regardless of ability to pay. Theres a sliding scale payment approach that means nobody is turned away, even if they cant pay anything.

For more information, visit The Backyard website at thebackyardwhidbey.org or call 425-299-4178.

Clogging

For most people, clogging probably conjures up images of wooden shoes and traditional Dutch outfits. Many have no idea that clogging is actually an American folk dance originating in Appalachia. The percussive foot-tapping style of dance has influences from Holland, Germany and the British Isles but has been shaped by both Native American and African dance customs.

Now, clogging has tapped its way across the heartland and into almost all states and communities including Whidbey Island. After years of employment as a high school teacher, Cyndy Jenson discovered that nobody was offering clogging classes on the island and decided that she would tap up to the plate.

She now offers clogging lessons and sessions at Island Dance in Langley and at the Oak Harbor Senior Center. Theyre available on a drop-in basis without a long commitment, though most people get hooked, she said, and want to progress to higher skill levels or stay engaged with the evolving groups.

Known by various names such as flat-footing, buck dancing, jigging and back-stepping, its basically dancing in time to music with a heel move occurring on the downbeat.

Its a toe-tapping, heart-thumping activity, Jenson said, and we dance to modern, country and generally any kind of music with a great beat.

Theres no need for a partner, since the dance traditionally occurs in a formation thats similar to line dancing. All ages and genders are welcome, and there are several options for foot gear. Some opt for hard-sole or tap shoes, but others, including the instructor, choose to glue jingle taps onto a comfortable pair of sneakers.

You may tone up your body and even lose a few pounds, Jenson said. Youll have a blast and meet some of the most fun-loving folks on the island.

For more information on classes, contact Island Dance at 360-341-2221 or the Oak Harbor Senior Center at 360-279-2555.

Bollywood and Belly Dancing

Its not surprising that Bollywood and belly dancing intermingle in a class taught by Arianne Movassaghi. The dance entrepreneur and owner of Dance Artistry grew up in a Middle Eastern family and started her own Bollywood/belly dance company at just 18 years of age.

Now 29, Movassaghi specializes in fusion dance, which combines several techniques to create a unique and evolving style. In her class at Island Dance in Langley, she teaches belly dancing and Bollywood dance with varying infusions of Latin, jazz, ballet and/or contemporary movements layered into the Middle Eastern style.

Its a drop-in class on Tuesday nights, with no registration and no prior dance experience required or necessary. Since its not a performance class (as many of her other offerings), belly dancing is not for show or recital its for anyone who wants to learn something exotic while also getting a workout with dance, stretching and body strengthening.

Movassaghi explains that the art of belly dancing came from ancient rituals and folk dances of Middle Eastern cultures. General consensus is that it began in Egypt, but artifacts show its early presence in Greece, Sumer, Persia, Hungary and Spain. The root of the name belly dance comes from the French Danse du ventre, which translates as dance of the stomach.

A typical dance session includes people ranging from age 15 to 60, and each dance session begins with warm-up exercises. It then moves to isolations that tone and strengthen specific muscles and muscle groups, and finally to choreography where students learn how to move with beauty and technique.

Its a fun workout, and anytime you exercise, your physical and emotional state benefit, Movassaghi said. It also boosts your self-esteem. Through practicing dance, the body becomes more supple and graceful and literally learns to move more beautifully.

The recurring class takes place on Tuesdays from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at Island Dance in Langley. Cost is $15 per session. For more information, email arianne@artistry.dance or call 425-305-6233.

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Stay fit during the chilly winter months - South Whidbey Record

Fearful youre consuming an excessive amount of sugar? Questioning how a lot is fit for human consumption? Or whether or not itsunhealthy for you it doesnt matter what? Its time we took a clear-headed take a look at this subject. Its time you heard the reality about sugar.

++++

Is sugar good?

Is sugar unhealthy?

Its onerous to know for positive today.

Which is attention-grabbing as a result of

Human our bodies want sugar.

Sugar makes up the spine of our DNA. Helps energy our cells. Helps retailer power for later. Vegetation convert daylight into sugar. We convert sugar into gas.

Molecules like glucose and fructose (simply two of the various kinds of sugar) are so primary to our organic wants, even micro organism love them.

Certainly, sugars the breakfast of champions, chemically talking.

Why did we begin hating on sugar?

When did we begin desirous to purge it from our our bodies?

Why do a few of us concern it a lot?

At this level can we simply want a little bit relationship counseling?

Or is it a poisonous relationship?

Is it time to half methods?

The reality is, that isa troublesome dialog to have as a result of

Speaking about it brings up numerous controversy and intense debate, even amongst scientists whore presupposed to be goal.

So why not step again and take a recent look?

At Precision Vitamin, we typically contemplate ourselves dietary agnostics. (Living proof: our view on the very best weight-reduction plan.)

We assist folks grow to be their healthiest, fittest, strongest selvesin a manner that works for his or her distinctive lives and our bodies.

In our work with over 100,000 shoppers shoppers, weve realized a number of issues

that one dimension doesnt match all,

that an all-or-nothing strategy doesnt work for most individuals,

that health and well being habits needs to be doable in your worst day, not simply your finest.

So right heres our bias on this article.

We observe the complexities of diet proof as finest we are able to, all the time deciphering them by way of the lens of:

You possibly can ask your self these identical questions as you undergo the article. And, in fact, be happy to return to your individual conclusions.

However first, lets get to know our sugars.

Most of us consider sugar because the white stuff we put in espresso, or perhaps what makes up 90% of these coloured marshmallow cereals.

Nevertheless, sugar is definitely a gaggle of molecules that share an identical construction. So we would truly name them sugars, plural.

This group consists of a lot of members similar to:

And so forth.

Sugars naturally happen in biology and in most meals (even when simply in hint quantities).For instance, right heres what the breakdown of sugars seems to be like in a banana:

There may be, in fact, far more sugar in processed and refined meals than in less-processed and unrefined meals.

(Well come again to this necessary level in a second.)

Together with the candy stuff, this macronutrient group additionally consists of:

The extra advanced the molecule, the slower it digests.

Most carbohydrates are literally damaged down into less complicated sugars as soon as theyre digested.

Different carbohydrates (similar to insoluble fiber) dont actually get damaged down nor absorbed absolutely, though our intestinal micro organism usually love munching on them.

So: Sugars are a kind of carbohydrate, however not all carbohydrates are sugars. And a few carbohydrates break down shortly/simply into sugars. Others dont.

This level is necessary to grasp, as a result of it tells us that not all carbohydrates do precisely the identical issues in our our bodies.

Sugar-type molecules react with receptors on our tongue, which then inform our mind OM NOM NOM DELICIOUS!

Sugar tastes good to us, as a result of in nature, candy meals like fruits are sometimes full of excellent stuff like nutritional vitamins, minerals, and power.

In all issues, people are various and variable.

A few of us like and search out sugar greater than others.This can be genetic. Or we could have realized it as we grew up. Or each.

For instance, a few of us like sugar in small doses; we are able to solely eat a little bit earlier than pushing the dessert plate away. Whereas others prefer it quite a bit; the extra we eat the extra we would like. The thought of an excessive amount of sugar doesnt compute.

Likewise, a few of our our bodies appear higher suited to sugar than others.

For instance, a few of us can eat sugar all day lengthy and really feel nice. Whereas others can solely tolerate a little bit bit earlier than our pancreas (which secretes insulin, a hormone that helps sugar get into the cells) tells us to knock it off.

Normally, most of us like no less than some sweetness.

Once were younger, we have a tendency to love sweetness extra and keep away from bitter meals extra. But every particular persons response to sugar and candy style is exclusive.

With that mentioned, lets get again to the questions at hand. Beginning with

The time period overweight (or chubby) is, like sugar, a contentious factor. On this article well use it only for the aim of debate, so bear with us.

The World Well being Group defines overweight as having a Physique Mass Index larger than 30. In fact, some match athletes (like heavyweight boxers or rugby gamers) might need the next BMI however nonetheless have a low physique fats share.

Nevertheless, for most folk, having a BMI larger than 30 signifies that theyve a higher-than-average degree of physique fats.

(Certainly, some research that correlate BMI with physique fats testing counsel that BMI could even underneath-estimate how a lot physique fats an individual has.)

In relation to weight problems, there have all the time been people who find themselves heavier, and/or whove extra physique fats, than most people like them.

Nevertheless, during the last a number of a long time, common folks in industrialized international locations have gotten heavier, larger, and gained extra physique fats pretty quickly.

Its now statistically regular.

Though this shift is occurring worldwide, and there are variations by ethnic group and socioeconomic class, its notably noticeable as a basic development in america.

Together with physique weights, we are able to take a look at adjustments in physique fats share and total health ranges. Right here, we additionally see that over time, physique fats share has gone up, and health ranges have gone down.

At present in america, the common physique fats share for males is round 28%, and the common for girls is round 40%.

For comparability:

May sugar be answerable for altering physique weights and physique compositions in industrialized international locations?

By reviewing knowledge from the USDA Financial Analysis Service, Nationwide Well being and Vitamin Examination Surveys (NHANES), in addition to Meals Frequency Questionnaires from the long-running Framingham Coronary heart Research, we are able to observe meals consumption from a number of angles. These various streams of information all present pretty constant developments.

They inform us that, since 1980, Individuals:

So, as a % of complete energy consumed, fats dropped. However we didnt find yourself consuming much less fats. We simply added extra sugar and different carbs on high of the fats we had been already consuming.

This added as much as roughly 200-400 additional energy per day.

By way of energy, thats like consuming an additional McDonalds hamburger or a double cheeseburger, on high of your present meals, each day.

Whether or not theseenergy got here from sugar might be irrelevant.

This elevated power consumption alone, mixed with lowering charges of each day bodily exercise, might be sufficient to clarify folks getting heavier.

We willt say that sugar particularly was the offender behind the weight problems surge for everybody. (Bear in mind, people range.)

However our elevated sugar consumption does appear to correlate with continued weight problems ranges up till not too long ago.

For about 4 hundred years, human beings have been having fun with increasingly more sugar.

As soon as Europeans found tropical buying and selling routes and arrange low cost slave labor economies to lift sugar cane, sugar grew to become increasingly more obtainable to the common particular person.

Certainly, sugar shortly grew to become the meals of the poor.

(It was mentioned that the complete working class of the British Isles lived on jam and sugared tea in the course of the Industrial Revolution.)

As a chief colonial energy, the British as soon as claimed the title of largest sugar shoppers. Per yr, the common Brit consumed:

Nevertheless, as soon as they acquired rolling as a rustic, Individuals werent far behind. Per yr, the common American consumed:

Then they actually took off: By 1999, the US reached peak sugar consumption of practically 108 lbs (49 kg) of sugar per particular person per yr.

Between 1980-1999 Individuals ate extra sugar. And weight problems charges acquired larger.

However then one thing modified: Our sugar consumption truly began to lower.

Apparently, since 1999 by way of 2013 (most up-to-date knowledge obtainable) consumption of added sugar has truly declined by 18% (or as a lot as 22%, relying on the info).

This drop has introduced Individuals present added sugar consumption again all the way down to 1987 ranges.

And through this time, complete carbohydrate consumption has dropped as effectively. (Is sensible, as this was the daybreak of the low-carb phenomenon.)

However, although sugar and carb consumption have declined over these 14 years, grownup weight problems has continued to climbfrom 31% of the American inhabitants in 1999 to 38% as of 2013.

(Diabetes diagnoses have continued to climb as effectively, which well deal with in a second.)

So, regardless of decreasing sugar consumption by practically 20% over a 14 yr interval, weight problems (and diabetes) charges have continued to climb.

Together with intercourse, ethnic, and socioeconomic variations in weight problems charges, this implies that altering physique sizes and compositions might be a fancy, multi-factored phenomenon.

Backside line right here: No single factortogether with sugarcauses weight problems.

Many elements work collectively to contribute to a constant power (calorie) surplus, which in the end results in fats achieve. A type of issues is usually sugar, however not all the time, and never alone.

So, we are able tot unequivocally blame sugar for elevated weight problems charges.

However many people are nonetheless questioning whether or not sugar is a gateway to fats achieve.

It appears logical. Carb and sugar consumption are the principle drivers of insulin launch. Insulins job is to assist retailer vitamins, together with fats.

Subsequently, it appears apparent. Carbs and sugar trigger fats achieve, proper?

As soon as once more, our scientist pals reveal that its a bit extra sophisticated than that. Lets check out a few research that discover this query.

In 2015, a small pilot examine was performed by Dr. Kevin Corridor to analyze the carb/sugar/insulin mannequin of weight problems.

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Degree 1: The stunning reality about sugar. Right here's all the things it is advisable find out about what it does to your physique. - Editorials 360

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Youve been eating healthily, working out and getting in your 10,000 steps (nearly) every day, but the weight still isnt coming down. Whats going on?

If youve been sticking to your plan but not getting the results youd expect, it could be that youre unknowingly making mistakes that are preventing you from losing weight.

Here are five common food mistakes that could be derailing your weight loss:

Fast 800: Dr Michael Mosley on his latest rapid weight loss diet

Time restricted eating, or 'intermittent fasting', has become increasingly popular and it can be supportive in helping you to lose weight. If restricting your eating window each day works for you, great, but its important to do it consistently. Just skipping breakfast here and there is more likely to end in trouble, as it can lead to overeating later in the day.

Some clients who come to see me have been skipping meals, only to find themselves with uncontrollable sugar cravings come 4pm. Or they have dinner, and then cant stop raiding the cupboards after theyve finished. Having healthy, balanced meals at regular intervals means youre less likely to overeat later on.

A common mistake I see people making when theyre trying to lose weight is forgetting to consider drinks. Coffee shop hot drinks, fizzy drinks and cocktails can often be hiding huge amounts of sugar. Educate yourself. Check the website of your favourite coffee shop to see how much sugar is in your favourite flavoured latte. Look at the back of the can of your fizzy drink, even the healthier-looking ones can be deceiving. Opt for dry wines or Champagne over cocktails. Small changes like this can make a big difference.

Your (twice) daily coffee could be adding to your calorie intake (Unsplash)

If youre trying to lose weight it can be easy to focus on what to eat less of, but if theres one thing to increase, its your vegetable intake. We get fibre from vegetables, which fills us up and keeps us regular. You can also eat substantial portions of most vegetables (especially green veg) without dramatically increasing your calorie intake. Veggies dont have to be boring. Think roasted Mediterranean vegetables, ratatouille, stir-fries, stews and veggie noodles topped with something delicious. Losing weight doesnt have to mean going hungry.

5 foods a nutritionist never eats

Fat gained a bad reputation due to its higher calorie content per gram compared to carbohydrates and protein, but we now know that there us much more to weight loss than simply calories in vs calories out. Foods that are sold as low fat are often highly processed and higher in sugar than the original version and as a general rule, I dont recommend them.

Fat is an essential part of our diet, it has many important roles including hormone production and helping our body absorb fat soluble nutrients like vitamins A, D and E. The type of fats youre including is key, focus on healthy fats like avocados, oily fish, unroasted nuts and seed and keep your portion sizes in check.

Increase your vegetable intake to help keep you fuller for longer (Unsplash)

While we are on the subject of calories, its worth making sure that yours are coming from the best sources. Its easy to be tempted to buy processed diet foods with the calorie count handily displayed on the front, but fresh, nutritious meals are a far better option. Base your meals around a quality protein source like fish, eggs or tofu, a moderate portion of healthy fats and plenty of vegetables or salad, which will fill and sustain you until your next meal. Meal prep can be helpful here, so find some recipes that you can batch cook in advance.

If youre doing all of the above but still struggling to lose weight, try keeping a food diary on an app like MyFitnessPal. It can often be an eye opening experience.

Kim Pearson is a qualified nutritionist and weight loss specialist based on Londons Harley Street. She consults clients in London and internationally via her virtual consulting room. For more information about Kim and the services she offers, visit her websitekim-pearson.com

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5 food mistakes to avoid if you're trying to lose weight - Evening Standard

Tom Kerridge is a chef and television presenter who is known for his appearances on Great British Menu, Masterchef and Saturday Kitchen. He has already released a range of books which delve into his healthy eating habits and has recently revealed he will bring out another, Lose Weight & Get Fit. Once weighing in at an astounding 30 stone, Tom opened up about the diet plan he followed to shed 12 stone. He said the dopamine diet helped him shape up - what did he eat?

As he approached his 40th birthday, the chef noticed his lifestyle of drinking and binging on unhealthy foods had caused the pounds to pile on.

Say we live to 80. Well, I thought, Im halfway there, Tom told the Sunday Times.

And then, I thought Im not going to get there. If Im like this, Im not going to make it.

The TV personality decided to cut booze from his life and start following the dopamine diet.

On the plan, slimmers eat foods which are thought to impact the bodys happiness hormone, dopamine.

Dieters can tuck into foods including meats, eggs, dairy, nuts, fruits and vegetables.

It is also recommended they stay clear of alcohol, caffeine and processed sugar in order to get the best results.

While slimming down, Tom revealed he would fill up on healthy fats and try to eat less than 90 grams of carbs a day.

Speaking to GQ, the chef explained: As a chef, I was grazing and snacking throughout service. Or Id be eating cheese on toast and packets of crisps because they were quick and there and ready to go.

Tom cut out unhealthy convenience food and made sure to always eat breakfast.

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Tom Kerridge weight loss: TV chef shed a whopping 12st by eating these key foods - Express

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates a third of American adults are obese, and another third are considered overweight.

A new study from the University of Washington may shed some light on why it's so hard to lose weight.

"The number of people losing weight or stating that they have tried to lose weight over the past year is 50%," Dr. Ellen Schur said.

Schur helps patients lose weight. She says weight loss itself causes hormone changes that make food more appealing, so it's harder to keep weight off.

In another UW lab, Mark Rossi and Marcus Basiri's study shows that overeating changes brain cells that suppress food intake.

"We don't know the exact mechanisms that are contributing to it, but we see that there are profound changes across lots of different cell types," Rossi said.

"So, these glutamate neurons, which normally function to suppress feeding, were kind of toning down their firing patterns," Basiri said.

As the mice got fatter, neurons got worse at putting the brakes on eating. The team hopes this leads to new ways to treat obesity in people one day.

Now the research team is working on isolating an even smaller set of cells that are affected by overeating. They haven't yet discovered whether the neurons can change back to how they worked before obesity.

MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHSRESEARCH SUMMARYTOPIC: OVEREATING MAY CHANGE THE BRAINREPORT: MB #4645

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern. It is a medical problem that increases the risk of other diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and certain cancers. There are many reasons why some people have difficulty avoiding obesity. Usually, obesity results from a combination of inherited factors, combined with the environment and personal diet and exercise choices. Most Americans' diets are too high in calories, often from fast food and high-calorie beverages. People with obesity might eat more calories before feeling full, feel hungry sooner, or eat more due to stress or anxiety. (Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obesity/symptoms-causes/syc-20375742)

OVEREATING: Binge eating can happen on a single occasion, or it can become a regular way of eating, leading to problems. Although binge eating in itself does not necessarily constitute a food addiction or eating disorder, binge eating is a symptom of Binge Eating Disorder and the eating disorder Bulimia Nervosa. There are a wide variety of reasons people overeat, including emotional eating, stress eating, overeating from supersize meal portions, sugar addiction, compulsive snacking, comfort and boredom eating, social eating, and relying on fast food. Research suggests that fast food is designed to stimulate overeating, typically by using a combination of sugar, salt and fat, all shown to be addictive. (Source: https://www.verywellmind.com/ten-types-of-overeating-22170)

NEW RESERACH: In the Stuber lab study, with members Mark Rossi and Marcus Basiri, an article published in SceinceNews.org said, "The researchers don't know whether these cells would regain their normal behavior if the mice stopped eating high-fat food and shed weight. It would be technically hard to keep monitoring the same cells for the weeks or months it would take for the mice to normalize their body weight, Stuber says. While the results offer a clear example of cells that control feeding behavior in mice, it's hard to say whether similar appetite-suppressing nerve cells are at work in people. Brain-imaging experiments have shown that the same brain region, the hypothalamus, is involved when people shift between being hungry and full. Stuber points out that while these cells in mice seem particularly responsive to a high-fat diet, obesity probably affects a much wider population of cells. "This is probably happening across the brain," he says. Understanding those complex interactions might ultimately point to better strategies for managing human appetites." (Source: https://www.sciencenews.org/article/high-fat-diet-brain-appetite-mice)

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Overeating may change the brain - WNDU-TV